Preparation

1) Plan your hike. You are more likely to have a safe and happy hike if you “plan your hike, and hike your plan”. To rush out on a big hike w/o proper planning is asking for trouble! ALWAYS notify someone close to you where you will be and how long you will be gone.

2) Know your terrain. Use every resource available to get to know your hiking trail before you set out. This will prepare you for the walking conditions. “Are there streams to ford?, Elevation changes?, Is terrain rocky or smooth?”, Just some of the questions that can be answered BEFORE you set out.

3) Know your climate. Hypothermia is real, dangerous, and misunderstood. Hypothermia can strike in relatively warm environments. Hypothermia plain and simple is a rapid cooling of the body. This can be caused by cold, wet or a combination of both. Hypothermia can easily be prevented with proper preparation.

In The Pack Essentials

1) Potable water. Always have fresh water available, on any excursion. It is also a good idea to bring along purification tablets and/or a filtration device. Having the ability to produce drinking water can be just as important as the water you pack in. I also bring along some protein snacks, just in case.

2) First Aid Kit. Although an obvious choice, it is surprising how many folks go in the wilderness without one. Items as simple as pain relief tablets can be a welcome addition when you are far from civilization. Other items are bandages, tweezers, moleskin, antiseptic, needle and thread (for repairs).

3) Fire and light source. Matches and a lighter are essentials for me. I usually pack along a small piece of commercial starter stick for quick fires in moist environments. I also pack a small conventional flashlight and an LED light, as well.

4) Clothing. It is always wise to pack some extra layers. The weight of these items will be dictated by the environment, err to the side of caution, as temps can fluctuate greatly, especially in mountainous environments. An extra pair of socks can be life savers.

5) Orienteering. Packing along a map and compass has gotten me out of a jam more than once. I also carry a cell phone, even though I may not get reception in most places, in a pinch, I may be able to get a call out.

The single most important item to pack on your next hike is common sense. Making sound decisions while on the trail will keep you out of most troubled situations. If you hike with your family members, especially children or seniors, remember that they may not have the stamina handle the same level hike as you, and you ultimately must make the right decision.

Hiking Safety is a post from: Preserve Bethlehem Travel Tips

The island of Amorgos counts with a very rich and interesting past, and therefore all those who enjoy historic spots would be able to have a great time while visiting it. Many centuries ago, Amorgos was used by the Ionians in order to go from their islands to mainland Greece. Many constructions and elements from such poque can be still observed nowadays since was important in shaping the island’s culture and traditions.

Three of the main and most antique cities in Amorgos can also be still visited nowadays. These three cities are Militos, Efessos, and Alikarnasos and also are strongly attached to the poque in which the Ionians used to go through this island in order to reach mainland Greece in such a way that each one of them can tell a bit of the history of those days. These three cities count with the peculiarity of being autonomous although they share a same currency and have many other aspects in common as well.

The city of Arkesini, one of the main spots in Amorgos, contains several appealing and unique characteristics. One of these interesting characteristics tourists could find in Arkesini is the antique walls that surround it and which were part of many important historical events.

It is also interesting to know that the island of Amorgos has received many different names throughout its history, and still, nowadays, it receives a variety of denominations. Among the names tourists could find Amorgos is called nowadays, there is the name of Pagali, Psichia, Patagy, Yperia, and Karkisia. This way, tourists should not be surprised or confused when they hear, read or see any of those names in reference to the town of Amorgos.

Amorgos and its history is a post from: Preserve Bethlehem Travel Tips

After the emotionally exhausting experience of an engagement, wedding, and reception, many newlyweds select a cruise as their honeymoon getaway. A sea sail is a finalize way to break the stresses of family and work, and a amazing way to blot the detail that you as a join are situation out on a new life together. familiar honeymoon cruise destinations comprise Hawai’i, the Bahamas and other islands in the Caribbean, all of which present gorgeous sultry ports of call and adequate of opportunities for exotic romance. However, sportier or more adventuresome couples may select to set their honeymoon cruise further off the beaten path, in locales as far-flung as Indonesia, Australia or South America.

The honeymoon marks the first time a newlywed join greets the world as a unit, and a honeymoon cruise offers the finalize environment in which both bride and spruce can relax and overlook wedding stresses, drink in some well-deserved leisure time, and contemplate their future life together. Increasingly, cruise outline have begun to incorporate spa services into their packages, so these days a honeymoon cruise can be as greatly a spa rest as an ocean voyage!

As mentioned above, sultry islands like Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St. Bart’s and other Caribbean islands are popular and traditional honeymoon destinations. A cruise offers a finalize way to explore scattered islands without the hassle and inconvenience of island hopping via small plane. Most Caribbean cruises leave from Cape Canaveral, castle Lauderdale, Miami, and other Florida cities, and can array in duration from a week to as long as 75 days, if cruisers select a sail cutting through the Caribbean and sailing around the Americas! Princess Cruises and superstar Cruises are just a few of the many outline who present Caribbean packages.

As we take a closer look, keep in mind all of the useful and important information that we have learned so far.

The ports of Europe and North Africa are another popular honeymoon destination. One of the advantages of the Mediterranean is its cool accessibility, via Europe’s many rivers, to the great cities of Western Europe. boon in Paris on Radisson Seven Seas’ cruise and sail around Spain and Portugal, striking Lisbon, Bilbao, Bordeaux and Barcelona before success Monte Carlo in the central of the Cote d’Azur. superstar Cruises and Holland America outline are also notable purveyors of European cruises. Holland America offers a 26-day tour of European capitals that is a wonderful, relaxing introduction to Europe’s chronicle and array of cultures.

If you’re fanatical to elude cities, Greece’s Aegean Islands, positive Corsica, Sardinia and Italy also make a wonderful, more rural cruise itinerary: taster Italian and Greek cultures and tour the cradles of two of the world’s great empires in Rome and Athens. The Greek islands are known for their hospitality, gorgeous beaches and historic ruins, and present a finalize mix of mores and withstand for any traveler, honeymooner or not.

The complexities of the subject matter within this article strive to give you a better look at what this subject is all about. http://www.honeymoon-destination-vacation-package.com/

Honeymoon Cruise Popular Honeymoon Destinations is a post from: Preserve Bethlehem Travel Tips

Personally, I believe that all of this extravagance is a bit too much, but I think that people should be able to spend their money in whatever way they see fit. So if anyone out there would like to invite me to take a ride on one of these over extravagant private jet planes, I think I would not have a problem saying yes, and go along for the ride. Anyone wanna make me an offer?

Private Jet Planes: The New Status Symbol is a post from: Preserve Bethlehem Travel Tips

A tiny, very secret near perfect Puerto Rico honeymoon vacation spot is a very good description for the world class Horned Dorset which is to be found on the quiet as yet undeveloped west coast of Costa Rico, situated in 8 acres on a hillside. Many people believe that not only is the Horned Dorsets restaurant the finest in the Caribbean, but the guest rooms rate amongst the finest as well.

You will find 22 villas all whitewashed scattered around the tropical gardens in such a way as to guarantee privacy, and also done in such a way as to resemble a Meditteranean village. The villas retain their privacy even whilst you are swimming in your own private plunge pool or relaxing outside, where the views of the sunset are remarkable, and contribute in no small way to the acceptance that Horned Dorset is the most luxurious Puerto Rican hotel. In fact probably at the very top end of luxury hotels in the whole of the Caribbean.

No children under twelve years of age contributes to the ambiance, as does the sheer quality of the furnishings in each of the two story suites, from hand carved mahogany tables to four poster beds, to the marble bathrooms with a tub big enough for two. By the way there is a second bath downstairs to get the sand off, after a beach walk.

When you add no radio or television then you can see why the Horned Dorset Inn is such a romantic Caribbean honeymoon spot.

The Horned Dorset Primavara is a combination of luxury, exclusivity and fine dining, and that would probably summarize this unique Caribbean Honeymoon resort better than anything else. If you want an amazing beach, nightly entertainment, a local town with restaurants then dont come here for your luxury Puerto Rico Vacation Package.

If you are hesitant to book your Caribbean Honeymoon Vacation at a place that includes all meals then dont be, for the meals you will eat at The Horned Dorset at Restaurant Aaron will surpass even your wildest expectations. Breakfast is served al fresco in The Veranda overlooking the Caribbean , on the terrace of the Blue Room or in your suite, and Room Service is available throughout the day.

The Horned Dorset is just a world away from your typical Caribbean Resort, and completely lacks any hustle and bustle. In fact there is nothing organized at all for you to do, so you can entertain yourself as you wish, although of course if you are on your Caribbean Honeymoon Vacation then this will probably be exactly what you want.

You can swim in the pool, walk on the beach, although not at high tide when it ceases to exist. You can enjoy the beautiful grounds or ask reception to arrange for most things from golf to deep sea fishing, to visiting an old coffee plantation.

In reality The Horned Dorset is specifically designed for couples who want to be alone together for either a romantic Caribbean honeymoon or just away from the bustle of the real world.

A Caribbean Honeymoon Vacation In Puerto Rico At The Horned Dorset Primavera is a post from: Preserve Bethlehem Travel Tips

1. Ring Around the Collar Dirty neck rings around shirt or blouse collars can be removed by putting shampoo on them. Rub the
shampoo in as if you were washing your hair. Shampoo is specifically made to remove body oils the “ingredient” of neck rings.

2. Removing Gum You can pick up just about anything on the soles of your shoes. Removing gum can seem like one of the most difficult things to do. The solution? Rub ice on the gum to harden it and then use a dull knife to remove the gum. The gum will come right off without damaging your soles.

3. Killing Flies Are there flying insects in your hotel room? Hair spray will kill flies and most other insects.

4. Drying Out Wet Magazines or Books Place paper towels on both sides of a wet page to absorb the moisture and prevent wrinkling.

5. Lingering Onion or Fish Smells on Hands Cant get rid of onion or fish smells on your hands? Wet them, sprinkle them generously with salt, and rinse.

Assorted Tips For Business Travelers is a post from: Preserve Bethlehem Travel Tips

As it was previously mentioned, hiking clubs are often used to describe groups of individuals who have a love for hiking. The majority of the time, you will find that hiking club members hike together. This is ideal for a number of different reasons. For one, hiking with someone that loves hiking just as much as you do can be fun and exciting. It is also important to mention safety. When you hike with multiple individuals, especially experienced hikers, you are less likely to have an accident or find yourself in a dangerous situation.

In addition to going on traditional hikes with each other, there are many hiking club members who travel to hiking trails or hiking parks that are not considered local. Many times, these types of trips require camping or staying at a hotel. One of the many reasons why these types of long distance hiking trips are done by hiking clubs is because the group members can split the cost of doing so. What does this mean for you? It means that if you would like to take long distance hiking adventures, but you don’t have any friends or family members who would like to go with you, you may want to think about joining a hiking club.

When examining all of the benefits of joining a hiking club, it is important to remember that not all hiking clubs are the same. There are some hiking clubs where members only meet up for hiking adventures, but then there are hiking clubs that do much more. For instance, there are hiking clubs that have monthly or even weekly meetings. These meetings are often used to plan hiking trips, discuss the latest in hiking gear trends, and so forth. There are also hiking clubs that use fundraisers, like car washes or chicken barbeques, to pay for their hiking adventures. In all honesty, you will find that the benefits you are presented with will all depend on the hiking club that you choose to join.

Speaking of choosing a hiking club, when it comes to choosing a hiking club, there are a number of important factors that you should take into consideration. For example, you will find that many hiking clubs charge their members small monthly or yearly fees. You will want to find a hiking club that is easy to afford. You may also want to take your schedule into consideration as well. Do you have time to attend all monthly or even the weekly meetings? If your hiking club has scheduled meetings, you will want to attend them, not just attend the scheduled hiking adventures. This will help you grow comfortable with those that you will hike with and visa versa.

If you would like to join a hiking club, you may want to first try and see if there are any local hiking clubs in your area. Depending on where you live or if there is a hiking trail or a hiking park nearby, there is a good chance that you may have a local hiking club or even a number of them to choose from. You can usually find information on local hiking clubs by using the internet or by asking those that you know for recommendations. If you are still coming up empty handed, you may want to think about asking the staff at a local hiking park if they know of any local hiking clubs.

As you can see, hiking clubs are fun ways to share your love for hiking with others who feel the same way about it as you do. Although there is a good chance that you will be able to find a hiking club to join, you can also always start your own, if you wish to do so.

Hiking Clubs: Should You Join One? is a post from: Preserve Bethlehem Travel Tips

Thousands of soldiers were sent to Europe, and Italy, during the Second World War and Florence became a land to conquer and then to defend. Museums, churches, cathedrals, piazzas and other beauties of Florence were no longer the aim of those who came from far away. Sadly, many would not make their way back home and thanks to their lives, Florence, Italy and Europe could find again its previous freedom.

For those who want to pay homage to these lives, they can visit the Florence American Cemetery, located on the west side of Via Cassia, about 10 km south of Florence. The Rome-Milan motorway passes nearby and its Certosa-Florence exit is about 3 km from the cemetery. The “SITA” bus station provides a frequent bus service along Via Cassia. The bus stop is conveniently located just outside the cemetery gate.

The site covers seventy acres and is duly kept in perfect order, with a variety of beautiful trees and bushes around immaculate lawns, on the west side of the Greve River. Between the two entrance buildings, a bridge leads to the burial area where the headstones of 4.402 American military are arrayed in symmetrical curved rows upon the hillside. Most of them died in the fighting occurred after the capture of Rome in 1944, including casualties of the heavy fighting in the Apennines shortly before the end of the war. Above the burial area on the topmost of three broad terraces stands the memorial marked by a tall pylon surmounted by a large sculptured figure depicting the spirit of peace. The memorial has two open atria joined by the Tablets of the Missing upon which are inscribed the names of 1.409 Americans who gave their lives in the service of their country and who rest in unknown graves. The architects of the cemetery and monument were McKim, Mead and White. The landscape architects were Clarke and Rapuano.

The cemetery is open to visitors all year round. In Summer (16th April- 30th September) from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm, every day, and in Winter (1st October – 15th April) from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm, again every day.

Alberto Scarsi is a staff writer of Florence Direct Hotels a resource for Florence hotels bookings

American cemetery in Florence is a post from: Preserve Bethlehem Travel Tips

For some, cruising is all about rock-bottom pricing. Bare-bone cruising gets you to the destination of your choice, but that’s about all it does. However, cutting corners is not for everyone. The Holland America Line recognized that many vacationers are still looking for a truly distinctive experience: one that gives them total satisfaction as well as good value. That way of thinking was what sparked the Signature of Excellence program.

Starting in 2003, Holland America chose to implement a $225-million initiative that would allow them to provide unprecedented destinations and services to passengers like no other cruise line before them. It was expected that the Signature of Excellence program would take approximately three years to expand throughout the fleet. Holland America is proud to announce that it’s in the final stages of implementation and will complete its program on schedule at the end of 2006.

What enhancements can be found aboard Holland ships since the execution of the Signature of Excellence program? Extensive improvements throughout every area of the ship.

Accommodations

Providing the most spacious cabins in the premium cruise category, Holland America offers elegantly appointed staterooms complete with Sealy Euro-Top mattresses, 250-thread count cotton linens, Egyptian cotton towels, massage shower heads, flat-panel televisions and more. In addition, guests staying in suites can take advantage of personal concierge services, special luxury linens, fully stocked minibars and special embarkation and disembarkation privileges.

Kids Activities

Club HAL is Holland’s youth program and was added as part of the Signature of Excellence program. With permanent, full-time directors and staff, parents can feel confident leaving their children to enjoy a full range of fun activities in a safe, age-appropriate environment. Club HAL offers the most elaborate children’s areas of any cruise line. Children will find colorful surroundings, art tables, big-screen TVs, games, supervised Internet access, Sony Playstations, board games and a host of family events, including the Family Olympics.

For Teens Only

Kids aren’t the only ones that can have fun on these retrofitted ships. Teens get their own hangouts as well. The Loft provides a lounge with the feel of a New York artist’s loft. Filled with popular music and videos, Internet access, karaoke and more, teens can have a space all their own. The Oasis is yet another teen getaway with a teens-only sun deck, a nine-foot-high waterfall and cave, snack machines, sound and laser-light show, and more.

Expanded Dining

One of the most anticipated parts of cruising is undoubtedly the food! That’s why the Holland America Line gave special attention to not only the meals themselves, but also to the environment in which guests would dine.

From the addition of fine art and antiques in the main dining room to elegant Rosenthal china and expert wine stewards, no detail was overlooked in the dining experience. Now with two servers per table, guests will experience unparalleled service along with exceptional five-course meals under the consultancy of Master Chef Rudi Sodamin. From reservations-only dining featuring Sterling Silver beef and fresh seafood to healthy alternative meals and complimentary in-room trays, passengers will not be disappointed with any aspect of Holland’s food service.

Private Island

The acquisition of a 55-acre private island, Half Moon Cay, is but one of the many highlights of the Signature of Excellence program. The highest-rated port of call on Holland’s itineraries, Half Moon Cay sits adjacent to an international bird sanctuary in the Bahamas. Repeatedly rated the Best Private Island by Porthole Cruise Magazine, guests will find horseback riding, stingray adventures, watercraft adventures, an aqua park and more.

Although the Holland America Line is concluding the implementation of its Signature of Excellence program at the end of this year, the effects of this innovative fleet-wide expansion will continue to impress and thrill guests for years to come.

Holland America Completes Signature of Excellence Program is a post from: Preserve Bethlehem Travel Tips

Despite the fact that pets are often considered members of the family, the FAA classifies pets as cargo. Generally this means they must be appropriately secured, most commonly in an animal carrier, during takeoff and landing for the safety to themselves and others. International travel poses additional procedures and restrictions, and these may differ from one country to another.

Prior to booking your flight, inform your charter operator if you plan to travel with your pet. They can check if there are any restrictions or requirements and ensure that the jet can accommodate your pet.

Some Helpful Tips:
If using a travel carrier for the first time, give your pet at least a month prior to your flight to become familiar with the carrier to minimize his or her stress during travel.
Talk with your veterinarian about prescription tranquilizers if you are considering sedating your pet during travel. Make sure to specify it is for air travel.
Bring along a confirmation of your pets immunization (to verify a clean bill of health).

Private Jet Charter: Traveling with pets is a post from: Preserve Bethlehem Travel Tips