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As travelers and tourists we can often feel a sense of entitlement when setting out for a trip. This is something not altogether unreasonable, we have probably saved up our funds for the journey or at least we are putting in from our time and efforts. Etiquette for most of us might be an idea of good behavior or even putting into practice some cultural norms we’ve heard of about a specific place. Details are certainly essential, but general concepts can be even more informative. Here we will look at several general points of travel etiquette that will give one the tools to be an informed and experienced traveler no matter what the particularities of each destination might be.

  1.  Be Yourself

This might at first sound counter-intuitive, if etiquette means observing a particular standard, that might be different from one’s own way of being why mention this? I say it because very often travelers make offensive mistakes trying to integrate with the destination culture. Oftentimes using one or two words of a local language, while well intentioned, can sometimes produce confusion or even make locals understand you are patronizing them. If you want to really engage in the local language, make an effort to learn the basics beforehand and let locals know you are trying to practice. This is just an example, but overall it is best to be yourself and remain humbly open to letting locals teach you, instead of trying to impress them with the few things you may know.

 2. Be aware of the most public expectations

Tourists and travelers can get excitied to learn about customs like which hand to eat with, how to address an older person or when to remove shoes in the home. These are great things one can learn while traveling and even more helpful to know beforehand. However the best way to absorb and appropriately engage the culture is to know its most basic tenets. A good example is the title photo of this article. Certain seats are reserved for monks in Thailand and are marked thus. One can imagine how embarrassed I was trying to hold the seat for a young lady who would not take it, while an elderly monk was boarding the train. Only later did I see the sign and understand. The example shows that while my intentions were good, an obvious sign was telling me this seat was a priority for monks. The moral is first pay attention to the public signs and expectations that are displayed, then fall back on the etiquette you know.

3.  Be clear about your needs and expectations

This as well might seem like an imposition rather than an adaptation. but it is not. Especially for Americans and those who come from cultures where formalities run deep, especially in speech this is important. In many other cultures around the world people ask for things directly, oftentimes when English is the second language it will be devoid of any formalities and conditional phrases like: ‘it would be nice if’ ‘could you possibly’ etc. This roundabout way of communicating which is proper in one culture can be very confusing in another. Places where people interact and express their feelings directly are places where one needs to be direct and honest about needs and concerns in order to be properly understood. “Being nice” will not help one to be understood, it is best to be direct and always respectful. Patronizing, false politeness and an assumption of superiority are the greatest transgressions of travel etiquette. If one can focus on eliminating these tendencies, one is already on a great path to being an intelligent and proper traveler.

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Rome is an amazing city and as it is obvious that churches are for most of the visitors one of the main attractions. Since imperial times Rome has been in constant connection with the history of the Christian faith. Thus it is certainly a living museum of religious history, attraction and art. Every corner displays to visitors a different worship site, shrine or prayer center, most of these with centuries of history.

There are literally hundreds of Churches in Rome. One can spend months there and never complete a visit of them all. Most of the churches safeguard amazing paintings and sculptures of famous artists. It is free to visit these churches, so one has to take advantage of and enjoy some of the finest art and architecture of the world in these settings.

There are always more churches to see in Rome, and here I do not intend to present all or even the most important churches of the city, but just a sampling of the varied array. Each one is different, they are the reflection of devotion and political struggles alike. They are temples of faith and monuments of human achievement.

What it is true is that it is impossible to visit Rome and to not dedicate most of one’s time visiting Churches. We invite you to click through the slideshow and enjoy this collection of pictures as an introduction to the beauties that await the visitor in the churches of Rome.

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

The woodwork is often as graceful as the stone and metalworks in Roman churches

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

Many of the ornaments and fixtures such as stained glass are impressive in their detail

Santa Maria del Popolo

Frescos and other artistry are truly spellbinding all over Rome

Santa Maria del Popolo

Interior of Santa Maria del Popolo

Santa Maria del Popolo

This church hosts some amazing originals of the painter Caravaggio

Santa Maria dei miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto

The twin churches Santa Maria dei miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto in Piazza del Popolo Rome

Santa Trinita in Monte

sits at the top of the Spanish steps in Rome

Santa Maria in Montesanto

One of the twin churches in the Piazza del Popolo in Rome

San Luigi dei Francesi

Oftentimes the ceilings of the Roman churches and basilicas are staggeringly beautiful

Sant Antonio

Side chapels are often named for saints and were put under the protection of important Roman families

Sant Antonio

Rome's churches have ornate organs and often many classical concerts

Sant Agostino

The Church of St. Augustine in Rome

Santa Maria e gli Martiri

The famed vault of the pantheon with its opening into heaven

Santa Maria e gli Martiri

The Pantheon in Rome is now a church under the patronage of St. Mary and the martyrs

Santa Maria e gli Martiri

The square in front of the Roman Pantheon

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

Usually every inch of wall and ceiling space are filled with artistry

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

Side chapels in Rome's churches are often artistic worlds in themselves

Santa Maria Sopra Minerva

The interior of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, the Carafa chapel is famed for its frescos

Gesu

The Gesu, the mother Church of the Jesuit order and home of the famed Madonna Della Strada painting

Sant'Andrea delle Valle

The exterior facade is a thing of beauty

Sant'Andrea delle Valle

Sant'Andrea delle Valle has an amazing painted vault and dome and works by Pietro Bernini

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Lithuania still sounds like a new country for many of us, the true is that this is an ancient nation, a land which has been populated by a diversity of peoples over the centuries. My trip to Vilnius, the capital was full of discoveries. It was an encounter with a beautiful European town with the charm of the local people and a place to relax and enjoy.

We arrived to the international airport, which is located just seven kilometers outside the city. The terminal is a beautiful reminiscence of palatial architecture with chandeliers and high ceilings, despite some remodeling projects it is small, but functional. It is easy to reach the downtown in bus, taxi or train. All these means of transportation are really affordable. We choose the train. It only takes 10 minutes to get to the main train terminal but it just runs every 45 minutes. From the train terminal one can arrive by walking to almost anyplace in the old town.

Vilnius is surrounded by old walls, once one crosses one of the gates, one is transported to a beautiful ancient town, with many churches, restored palatial buildings and great hotels. It is not hard to find lodging at good prices. There are even some luxury brands now present in Vilnius such as Radisson and Kempinski.

This is a very lively capital, always with many options for those who enjoy good cuisine and exciting nightlife.

I was impressed by how many open squares are all around, with big avenues and many gardens. All the restoration going on around in the city are noticeable. The heart of the town is Cathedral Square. This is a country that values religion a lot and many of the chapters of their history are connected with faith. It is possible to see the cathedral full almost any day for the many religious ceremonies always going on.

Just in the back of the cathedral it is easy to notice one of the very few hills in the surroundings. There is located Gediminas Castle. This is a place not to miss, there is a museum. It is possible to climb the hill from cathedral square. From there one gets a very nice view of the city.

Gediminas Avenue starts in Cathedral Square as well. There are located many of the best restaurants and great shopping too. The street is full of people especially on the weekends. We found ourselves going and coming, orbiting around Gediminas Avenue many times. But it is important not to pass the tiny streets around, because in every corner one will be surprised by many other beautiful buildings and great squares, some of which are full of artists showing their work.

Vilnius is a lovely capital to visit, one that will keep the visitor busy for days. The good news is that this is a very affordable destination. From dinning to lodging one can get much more for money than in many other cities in Europe. Vilnius is as well just the beginning. Lithuania offers several other places to enjoy, so why not to start in the heart of the country and from there go and see the rest!

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 This is a post contributed by Kishore Waydande

From the lush green hills and waterfalls of Dhofar, across the drifting desert dunes of Al Sharqiyah (Wahiba) Sands, to the endless unspoilt beaches along the Arabian Sea: the Sultanate of Oman is a country rich in diverse natural beauty. All just waiting to be explored…

With 3,165 km of coastline and clean, unpolluted waters, Oman offers an abundance of water activities. Diving in Oman provides adventure and enjoyment with dramatic wall drop-offs and scenic coral lined fjords, ranging in depth from 6-40 m.

The warm waters of Oman are ideal for kayaking tours, which are available around the inlets of Bander Al-Khiran close to Muscat. One of the great places to surf in the Sultanate is Masirah Island, an ideal spot for windsurfing, particularly during the Khareef (monsoon) season.

Besides the abundance of water activities, Oman also offers innumerable land activities for the adventurous spirit with its towering mountains, steep cliffs and rugged paths, all overlooking breathtaking natural scenery. Above an altitude of 1,900m, trekking is possible all year round and is by far the best way to enjoy Oman’s spectacular landscape.

The Sultanate of Oman offers some of the most daring and exhilarating cave adventures in the world, most of which should only be attempted by experienced and fit cavers.

The Omani desert is a large expanse of sand dunes extending 200km from the mountains of the Eastern Hajar down to the Arabian Sea. Desert adventures in Oman offer many experiences: camel-riding, dune-driving, sand-boarding or just sitting around a campfire under the stars in the traditional Bedouin style.

In Oman, there is a huge range of exciting activities to satisfy even the most energetic visitor.

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It was supposed to be a quick trip. I just wanted to be there, walk around and see the Golden Gate bridge. The truth is that San Francisco fascinated me, it is an electrifying city. Now I understand why this is one of the most visited cities of the world. Sharing with many others who have visited this amazing metropolis almost everybody at the end of their trip arrives to the conviction of “this cannot be the only trip to San Francisco, we will be back soon.”

I arrived to San Francisco almost by accident since I was actually flying to Singapore. I decided to make a stopover there –now I am so happy that I took that decision- I flew to San Jose International airport, this is a small, but functional airport and I spent my first night in one of the hotels of the area since these are much cheaper than the others in the main touristic sections.

The next day I was enjoying a sunny but chilly day and after a great breakfast I took the train from San Jose airport to San Francisco airport. It is actually a very easy connection. From there I jumped into the line to the city and in no more than in an hour, I was at the visitor information center in Hallidie Plaza. Here at the corner of Market and Powel one can feel the city already coming alive. The visitor center is a must stop where one can get all the information needed to explore the city. Certainly San Francisco is a compact town in comparison with other US cities, but it still would be hard to cover it all on foot. The good news is that there are excellent tourist passes available that comprise an amazing tourist transportation network. This includes unlimited trips in the cable car. And this was exactly what I did, just seconds later I was exploring the whole city on board of one of the many cable cars, hanging onto one of the sides this is the best way to see the surroundings, to experience the many neighborhoods and the feel the high energy of this destination.

There is so much to see that of course it is impossible to cover everything in just one trip. My first stop was at the Golden Gate bridge. It is so powerful to be there, so many times I saw that place in pictures and movies and now the vision of the city from there was breathtaking. Then the botanical gardens, this is a place to breathe in the  nature and feel the green heart of the city.

It is impossible to be in San Francisco and not get cultured, even if one only has a few hours. The museum of modern art is a must. From there I saved my second day in the city to explore other memorable sights. I started by taking a cruise to Alcatraz, it is hard to describe the many feelings that arise in such a place. On my way back I walked all along fishermen’s wharf, even when many people say this is a tourist trap, I think that it is a very nice place to see and enjoy, I actually really liked it. After a great vegetarian meal –San Francisco is the capital of vegetarian restaurants – I went to China town, what a great place! In a matter of minutes one is transported to the Far East with a combination of flavors, colors and sounds. I ended my trip in the financial sector. I wanted to see some of the places that are now familiar to me thanks to the movie ‘the pursuit of happyness’.

Everything is up and down in San Francisco. So many times I wondered how those cable cars are able to go up those hills. Visiting San Francisco is like riding a roller coaster. I left San Francisco very pleased. I arrived to Asia and a couple days later and my heart was still back there in San Francisco, a city that really captivated me.

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One doesn’t have to be a scholar to appreciate the qualities and attractions of Oxford. This famed university town is quite a tourist attraction in addition to being a place of great learning. Perhaps the most alluring aspects are the centuries old campuses, the manicured lawns, splendid gardens and lively pubs and shops.

Oxford is an excellent place for a day trip from London. At only 50 miles away one can easily get in and out on the same day.  Coach buses depart London’s coach station almost hourly just behind Victoria station. The ride time is around an hour and a half and both one way and roundtrip tickets are sold. Buses come directly from Heathrow and Gatwick airports as well since Oxford does not have a major airport closer than London.

Like many university towns in Europe the atmosphere is lively. One will see businesses and restaurants, coffee shops and pubs full of students and professors, who always seem to be in uniform. The perfect way to get around the central parts of town is walking or bicycling and there is plenty of room for both.

What is most attractive about Oxford for many is simply wandering around the various universities and faculties. Don’t worry about being too invasive, places for visitors are clearly marked in all the schools, you won’t wander into a lecture unless you’re really trying to. A good place to start is the Bodelian Library. This rotund building is the second largest in the UK and is one of Europe’s oldest. The flair and architecture of the building are curious and its right in the midst of everything. Just behind the library is an ornate pedestrian bridge connecting two buildings called Hertford, it is something of an icon in the city. If you’re looking to join the locals for some tasty brews, be sure and head left down a side street in front of the bridge looking for the turf tavern.

While most of the colleges have tourist areas open many close them during exams, so be sure about the availability during your visiting period. Some of the colleges which attract many visitors are Exeter College with a spectacular display of Neo Gothic architecture and spellbinding chaples, gardens and artwork. The central All Souls College with its iconic towers and broad lawns is quite alluring as well. Christ Church College and Magdalen are some of the most tourist friendly and with good reason. The chapels, gardens and halls are stunningly full of grand designs, homes of famous teachers and students and mesmerizing displays of skilled architecture and design. Some of the universities have admission fees to access parts of their displays.

Many attractions in Oxford are best discovered while one is visiting. The coffee shops, pubs, restaurants and little novelty stores all have something unique. In addition the natural history museum boasts a stunning collection and the Ashmolean Museum has a little bit of everything including some treasured artwork. When in Oxford be sure to spend as much time inside the universities as outside them. It is truly a city with a lively and lovely atmosphere that will make you glad you came.

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I have been there many times and I am still fascinated in the same way that I was my first time. It is true, Cairo is a city that at first glance seems weird. A place that changes a lot every time one is there but at the same time its one of the oldest cities on earth. A capital that was already huge and important even centuries ago. It does not matter how many conflicts have passed by here, Cairo continues being a captivating place to visit, kind of a different destination with a unique appeal, but with rewarding memories for the visitor.

I will say there are not one but many Cairos, from the modern Heliopolis with some of the biggest shopping centers I have ever seen to the ancient streets of old Cairo a district with thousands of years of antiquity. Certainly this is a crowded city and one will need sometimes hours to go from one place to another. There are as well many cultural challenges, even taking a cab requires advanced negotiation skills. But there are as well impressive luxurious hotels with first class service, these are true oasis and refuges to look forward to come back after a tiring day of exploring.

Probably the best place to start a visit would be in the Egyptian Museum, this is a fantastic ‘disorganized’ Museum, where one can appreciate some of the most fabulous pieces of Egyptian history, just steps from there is located Tahir Square –but beware that from time to time some protests continue happening there- A perfect afternoon visit will be the Market: Khan El Khalili, but be ready because one needs to be always attentive and aware, it is easy to get lost in such a complicated network of narrow streets and shops, the reward is that in this market one is able to find amazing souvenirs with incredible prices in a very historical setting –once again be ready for the bargaining.

A second day will most likely take you to the Pyramids, try to get there early in the morning in this way you will have the place to yourself, later around noon there will be many people pushing you to buy all kinds of stuff. After visiting the pyramids another great place to see is the citadel,  certainly it is a landmark of its own in Cairo. Modern Cairo will take you to fabulous shopping centers such as City Stars. It is hard to talk about hotels in Cairo, there so many and they are so good. I love the JW Marriott it is actually located quite close to the airport, but its spacious, modern and luxurious. In the downtown area the Intercontinental, Marriott, Conrad and of course the Four Seasons are other great lodging places. By the way prices are really affordable right now.

One will need patience to enjoy the city, there are many things to see and it is easier to get tired because of the weather, the sand and the dryness, but this is a city not to miss, just being there leaves the visitor with an indelible memory that will last a lifetime.

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The Nile leaves its mark on Cairo old and new

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Cairo's grand hotels are inspirational bastions of service

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pleasant corners of relaxation are a large part of hospitality here

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Historic sites of heritage of faith are abundant

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Shops with ancient marvels abound in Cairo

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The Nile offers refreshing breezes and the lifeblood of Egypt

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The entrance to the Egyptian Museum

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The malls are modern epicenters of commerce

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Cairo's modern malls are sites of beauty and fashion

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Bask in the serene nature and unforgettable tranquility

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The golf course of the JW Marriott Cairo

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The blooming golf courses and gardens of the Nile Delta are spellbinding

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The treasured pyramids of Giza

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The city's memorable markets are sure to amaze

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The unique landscape of cairo

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It is not easy to write about a city so unified and at the same time so divided. One that means so much for many and that for others it is only an excuse for conflict. The truth is that one is easily moved just standing in Jerusalem, it’s complicated diversity makes anyone reflect on how different and at the same time how similar all human beings are.

I have been several times in Jerusalem and I always find this place one of the most appealing destinations for a traveler. There are always different corners to discover and so much history in every stone. I will say that I always have been invaded by a sense of peace, yes! this can sound somewhat hard to understand in a place with so much conflict, but this is a city of faith and one breathes rituals and prayers all around.

The way to explore the city is on foot, there is a lot to see but everything is fairly close by. I always enjoy starting my visit to the holy city in Gethsemane and the Mount of Olives. From there I walk all the way to the back of that hill that surrounds such an important sanctuary for Christians: the secret? Here is probably the most beautiful view of Jerusalem, this is the spot to take an amazing picture, but as well to reflect on the grandiosity of such a city. From there I make my way to the old city, one has not to be afraid of getting lost in such an intricate puzzle of tiny streets full of merchants, this is the way to see the city and to breathe in the local life. I enjoy stopping and eating in tiny restaurants. Sometimes Arabic food, others Israelian delicacies or any of the other possibilities that reminds me of the internationality of the place.

No one should miss the Western Wall,  certainly the most meaningful place for Jews, there is always so much going on, so many prayers and rituals happening in the same place, traditions that date back centuries, and just meters away one should visit the temple esplanade to admire two beautiful mosques and to walk in a place of tremendous significance for the Muslim community, but as well an area of fragile tranquility.

There are so many other churches. If it is possible to visit only one, this should be the Holy Sepulcher, a huge Basilica shared by Christians of many denominations, it is impressive to witnesse the processions, masses, and all the signs of deep devotion happening at the same time. From there it is very nice to walk the ancient via dolorosa, a colorful collection of tiny streets where Christians believe Jesus walked on his way to be killed on a cross.

The perfect place to take a little break from history is to go to the new Jerusalem, well but not so fast, there is the shrine of the book, a museum not to miss. At the end the perfect night should be spend in one of the many great restaurants around the fabulous King David Hotel or the Mamilla Hotel (two very recommended properties by the way). Jerusalem is a place to enjoy in an slow pace. A place that continues staying with the visitor even when one has left the city.

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Thailand is synonymous with relaxation and fun and it isn’t just the crowds and booming tourism that makes it so. One of the most wonderful things about this country is that it is so vast and diverse, it always seems to be holding something more to explore, little corners of happiness that one continually discovers. Phi Phi island is another such corner of happiness.

This island is an hour or so boat ride from the Thai peninsula of Phuket, which is known for its party beaches, secluded resorts and lush landscapes. If one is in Phuket, a day trip to Phi Phi island proper and its outlying sister islands is a day well spent. Phi Phi is certainly not deserted, but its not overdeveloped either. Here one will see all kinds of small hotels and residences, tiny shops, little travel agencies everything seems in miniature and the atmosphere is barefoot and the air smells of grilled sea foods and a million other delights. It is a mixed feeling between spring break and being marooned on a gorgeous tropical isle.

For the day tripper

Phi Phi island is easily explored in a few hours, so if you are looking to get a feel of the place, buy a few trinkets and have lunch, the hundreds of boat trips that arrive daily are wonderful options. The downside is that if you really like the place and want to spend more time, its not possible. The guided day tour boats make the rounds to several other islands in order to give one the experience of snorkeling, enjoying a deserted beach and of course getting to and from the mainland. When arriving in a day trip it is recommended to eat your included buffet lunch quickly and then to set out exploring the central market and making your way to the quiet beach and bay on the reverse side of the island. Here you can capture the best feeling of sun and solitude the island offers.

For the long term visitor

Anyone who enjoys solitude and people watching or at least one of the two can really enjoy their time here. For the long term stay there are many small hotels that offer a rustic island experience. Of course there’s electricity, air conditioning and amenities, but no matter where you look your backyard is a beach. Visitors staying over can enjoy the fantastic scenery and most of all embrace the familiar and quiet atmosphere that comes at night and early morning when the major visiting influxes have died down. Many people make their way here from Phuket to stay overnight in specific boat taxis and there are even charters offered that will take one all the way to Bangkok.

Phi Phi is a magical place to stay in itself and moving about its neighboring islands which often share part of its name is a mystifying experience of nature’s solemn beauty and impressive displays.

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Karlovy Vary is a spectacular small town in the heart of the region of Bohemia in the Czech Republic. Those looking for an idyllic European city full of quaint architecture, cozy hotels and ubiquitous spas should look no further than here. Every twist and turn of this town’s noble streets seem to offer another venue for serene relaxation and enculturation.

The best way to reach Karlovy Vary is certainly via Prague. It is only a couple of hours driving on excellent highways and as well trains run all day continuing on past the German border not far away. The city feels much more further in the countryside than it actually is. Being situated around 120 km from Prague, it is perfectly possible to see the whole place and take in an experience of the spas in a day, but it is best to stay at least one night if possible.

This town ranks among those medium sized spa cities in Europe which are stunningly beautiful, yet half the cost of what one would find elsewhere simply due to location and fame. Czech Republic offers good prices on everything from food, to lodging to treatments and has a majestic countryside arrangement into which this charming city is situated.

Karlovy Vary has been famous for its natural hot springs with healing properties for centuries and the layout and architecture of the town has attracted the best of high society over the years. The hotels and spas especially will attest to this as they inspire an inclination to relax and recharge.

Recommended places to enjoy are the Savoy West. This is a destination unto itself, it puts attention first and foremost on excellent facilities that tempt guests inhabit the hotel for the entirety of their visit. For travelers with even more refined tastes the Grand Hotel Pupp will be at your every beck and call. It is an established institution having been present in Karlovy Vary for over three centuries; it is a classy five-star hotel with one of the best spas in town. The city offers 143 places for accommodation.

The spas are certainly the highlights of the town and it forms what the local tourism authority calls Health Care Tourism. This takes place in the form of recreational and assigned treatments at many of the venues. There are too many spas to mention, but virtually every major hotel has one and places marked “sanatorium” around town offers spas and treatments too. Be sure to walk along the central colonnade in the city center where hot mineral waters abound in public drinking fountains for a unique experience.

Of course there are many other activities one can enjoy in this historic and stately town too. There are 10 nearby golf courses offering an exquisite encounter with the Bohemian countryside. There are history, nature, diamond, glasswork, music and art museums in abundance. Many of the restaurants and cafes are especially good places to enjoy live music from exceptionally trained musicians. For culinary delights be sure to relish in La Boheme French cuisine at Hotel Carlsbad Plaza and Karel IV which sits at the central and oldest point of Karlovy Vary. The outlying landscape is a great place for summer and winter sports of all sorts as well.