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Keep a Travel Journal- Have Your Memories Forever!

2010-11-28T16:16:00.000-08:00

When traveling anywhere new I highly recommend keeping a travel journal! It is a great way to remember what you do from day to day. It also helps you remember where you were what you were doing and at what day/time etc. When you get photos developed it will make it easier to scrapbook or preserve your memories in general! I kept a travel journal when I went to the East Coast years ago; it was a big help and now even though it has been almost 7 years since my trip. I can read my journal and look at my pictures anytime - taking me right back to the beautiful East Coast!

Reasons to Travel

2010-11-27T17:34:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons to travel (both long and short distances) whether it be to see your favourite sporting event or favourite team - or to see you favourite band or performer - for work - to visit family and friends from far away - or just to relax and get away! What do you think the top reason for travel is? I think work related traveling occurs more frequently (since many people work abroad, or travel great distances throughout the year for their businesses and companies) and lets face it - often work pays for it! It would be nice if traveling to get away and relax occured more frequently than work related travel - well all deserve the break! Let me know your thoughts and opinions!! What do you travel most often for?

Music From Around the World

2010-11-26T13:37:00.000-08:00

When you travel local food is not the only thing there is to enjoy.. don't forget about all the awesome new MUSIC you will experience while traveling! Whether it is a local genre all their own or similar to one we all know; music is a great way to enjoy yourself in a new country and really get to know the culture. Visiting National Geographics 'World Music' link on its website allows you to browse through by Genre, Region or Artist. Visit this link today if you are interested in learning more about the type of music that is popular in a country you may be visiting in the near future - or visit just for fun! Enjoy!!
http://worldmusic.nationalgeographic.com/

Food & Travel

2010-11-25T16:42:00.000-08:00

One of my favourite things (and I'm sure everyone agrees) is the food you get to try while traveling!! It is a great chance to try something you normally wouldn't - cooked and prepared the way it should be. Being in a new country or even a new town close to home is an opportunity to try local restaurants and favourite dishes that you normally would not get the chance to try. One of my favourite dishes was trying true New York Style Pizza - in New York City it was delicious and I have never had anything quite like it since. What is your favourite dish that is best enjoyed where it originated from?! Is is far away or closer to home?!

Airplane Etiquette

2010-11-24T11:22:00.000-08:00

I found this great website that has hilarious (and VERY truthful) airplane etiquette tips to keep in mind when you fly! http://www.flights.com/tips/airplane_etiquette.html
I have not had many opportunities to fly however, these tips will have you nodding your head in agreement or remembering a situation just like the description. Flying should be an enjoyable or at least tollerable experience! Enjoy!
Here are a few great examples from this link...

1. Your space is your space, and the space for the guy next to you…? Well, that's his. Or hers. Stay out of it. Keep your elbows, knees, and any other protruding body parts to yourself and make an effort not to spread out so much that you actually touch other passengers. They might not think you're as much of a hottie as you think you are, and they don't want you all over them.

2. Stick with a paperback. Don't bring a giant newspaper, a map, a kite, or anything else that's going to impinge upon the airspace of the person next to you.

3. If the guy/girl next to you is friendly, talk to him/him. If not, then shut up. Not everyone's looking for a new best friend just because they happen to be sitting next to you for a few hours.

4. People who use the bathroom a lot should sit on the aisle, not by the window. Period.

Before Your Road Trip Remember ......

2010-11-23T12:42:00.000-08:00

Select Your Ideal Destination... Make sure you know as much as possible about your destination..weather/ time difference etc before you decide where you want to go

To Budget accordingly.... Make sure you have enough money plus a little extra just incase - when you travel be ready for the unexpected!

To Get Your Vehicle Travel ready..... if you are driving a long distance it is important to make sure your vehicle is tuned up and ready for the drive.

Pack the Right Things.... don't pack too much - or too little! Know how long you will be travelling for and if you should bring warm clothing/sun screen etc

Bring the Right Snacks..... Travelling for long periods of time means you will need to have plenty of snacks ready in your vehicle that will not go bad quickly - also have a map ready so you know where to find rest stops and restaurants

Games and Songs.... Make it fun! have a playlist ready with all your favourite music or have games ready to play during the drive

Most Importantly...... Have fun! and Happy Traveling!!!!

How to Take Advantage of Off Season Travel Video – 5min.com

2010-11-22T17:09:00.000-08:00

How to Take Advantage of Off Season Travel Video – 5min.com

Above is a link to a great video on the pros of Off Season Travel (with a few cons as well) I found it interesting! It is short and provides relevant and useful facts - Enjoy!!

Off Season Travel - Is It Worth The Money Saved?

2010-11-22T16:59:00.000-08:00

Many countries offer lower prices or discounts on flights and vacation packages during the 'off season' to create greater incentives to vacation there. Sure the hotels are cheaper and less crowded along with the resorts however, is the incredible increase in rainfall or heat or even snow worth it? Most off-season conditions mean: moderate to poor weather, less entertainment available, shortened hours and even renovations may be occuring to prepare for the peak season.

I have never personally travelled to a destination during its off season - I want to know - is it worth the money saved?! Tell me your opinions and experiences!

Service Canada Tips for Travelling Abroad

2010-11-19T12:16:00.000-08:00

This is interesting information - some of it is basic and common knowledge when travelling - however some tips may surprise you. For example did you know some countries require you to have a tourists visa for visits under 3 months? The International Driving Permit I also found quite interesting.
Link: http://www.servicecanada.gc.ca/

Travelling Abroad
From travelling to new and exciting areas, to just escaping a cold Canadian winter, travelling is a rewarding experience. This list will help you prepare for your trip.

1. Apply for a Passport
The Passport Canada Web site provides detailed information about the passport application process. If you are a Canadian 16 years of age or older, you can apply for your Canadian passport online.
Note: As of January 31, 2008, all travellers, including Canadians and Americans, will need to carry an appropriate secure document when travelling to or through the United States. For more information, visit the Canadian Border Services Agency's website.
If you have dual citizenship, it may be best to travel with your Canadian passport. Some countries do not recognize dual citizenship, and in some instances your second passport may be confiscated, you may be fined, or you may even be prevented from leaving the country.
If you are a permanent resident and thinking of travelling outside Canada, you will need a valid Permanent Resident Card to return to Canada.

2. Research the Country You are Planning to Visit
Consult the Country Travel Reports before your departure to find out about safety and security conditions, health questions and entry requirements for the country or countries you are planning to visit. The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade publishes reports for over 200 destinations around the world.

3. Apply for a Visa
Some countries require you to have a tourist visa for visits of less than three months. Apply well in advance if this is the case.

4. Research Required Vaccinations
The Public Health Agency of Canada provides information for travellers about international health advisories and recommended vaccinations to get before you leave Canada. The Agency also provides a list of travel clinics across Canada.

5. Obtain Health and Travel Insurance
The Consular Affairs Web site provides information about obtaining health insurance for your trip abroad. It also provides information on what to do if you require medical assistance while travelling outside Canada.

6. Take Precautions When Travelling with Children
It is important that you have documentation proving that you have either custody of the child or parental permission to travel with the child. The Consular Affairs Web site provides information about regulations and conditions that may affect your trip if you travel with a child.

7. Apply for an International Driving Permit
The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a special licence for tourists, authorised by a UN treaty among nations of the world, for the purpose of allowing motorists to drive vehicles in international traffic without further tests or applications.

The following requirements must be met and the following documents must be provided to apply for the permit:
•the applicant must be 18 years of age or older
•valid Canadian provincial or territorial driver's licence
•2 passport type photographs
•fee payment of $15.00 CAN
•complete and sign the CAA IDP application form

8. Change Your Currency
Foreign travel is often more expensive than most people plan for. The Consular Affairs Web site provides some information about managing your finances abroad.
You can also use the Bank of Canada Exchange Rate Calculator to help you plan for your trip.

9. Review Pre-boarding Information
To make air travel more secure, stricter screening procedures are increasingly common. The Consular Affairs Web site provides information and advice to help you avoid delays and problems during boarding.

10. Register with the Government If You Are Travelling Abroad
The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade offers a registration service for Canadians who will be living in a foreign country for three months or more, as well as for Canadians who will be visiting areas with a potential for problems. It is recommended that you register at the nearest Canadian government office abroad. You can also register online, by mail or in person.

11. Declare Your Goods
The Consular Affairs Web site provides some important information about the types of goods you can bring back to Canada. Make sure you are aware of what items you need to declare upon re-entry to Canada.

My Favourite Holiday Traveling Experience

2010-11-13T10:06:00.001-08:00

My favourite holiday experience was when I travelled to New York City and saw the Macy's Day Parade 1 month before Christmas and also saw the Rockettes Christmas Special live!!! It was an amazing exeperience that really got my excited and ready for the holidays!

What is you favourite holiday travelling experience??

Holiday Traveling

2010-11-13T09:55:00.000-08:00

With the holidays fast approaching many are planning their winter vacations/getaways or trips to visit friends and family.

Where is your favourite holiday travel destination? (Is it to warmer destinations or closer to home?)

Eating and Traveling

2010-10-30T08:47:00.000-07:00

Traveling can cause you to have little options when it comes to what you eat and where you eat. In many cases we are forced to rely on fast food, pre-packaged convenience store items and sugary drinks. The following link "Healthy Eating on the Road" I found very interesting and helpful when it comes to making healthy and better food choices while traveling! http://nutrition.about.com/od/foodfun/a/healthyeating.htm

A few examples from this article I think you will find interesting:

Breakfast:

At a Restaurant: Choose an omelet filled with vegetables and order a side of whole-wheat toast instead of a stack of pancakes and syrup. A bowl of oatmeal with fresh fruit is very filling and good for you. If you want something sweet, choose a bran muffin, which is a good source of fiber.

Continental Breakfast: Choose a whole grain cereal with low-fat milk. Fresh fruit gives you vitamins and fiber. Yogurt or hard-boiled eggs are good sources of protein.

Snacks:

Load up on fresh-cut vegetables and fruit. Bring along a small cooler with ice packs to keep your snacks fresh. Bring plenty of water. Individually wrapped portions of string cheese can be kept in the cooler with the fruit and vegetables. They are a great source of calcium and protein.
Bring baked whole grain crackers along on your trip. This is good for added fiber and nutrients.

Lunch & Dinner:

Restaurants: Order a soup or a salad to eat with your main course. Soups and salads are generally healthy and start to fill you up so that you eat less of the more calorie-dense main meal. Split a meal with your dining partner. Most restaurants serve huge portions, so there is usually enough food to share. This saves calories and money. Eat the vegetables. Most entrées come with at least one vegetable. Skip dessert, or choose some fruit. A full meal that ends with a sugary dessert may make you feel sleepy. That might be fine if you are passenger, but a bad idea if you are the driver.

At fast food restaurants: Find sandwich shops like Subway or Quiznos that let you select your sandwich ingredients. Choose whole grain breads, lean meats, and lots of vegetables.
Eating at the hotel: Find a local grocery store and buy healthy snack items such as fruit, nuts, or healthy choices from a salad bar or deli section. If your hotel has a microwave, you can find healthier frozen dinners or soup. Some restaurants will deliver food to your hotel room and may have some healthy menu items available.

Hotel Choices - Relaxing or Regrettable

2010-10-29T08:14:00.000-07:00

We have all had them when we travel. Good and bad hotel experiences. Some hotels live up to all expectations you make of them before you get there - unfortunately some seem amazing in pictures or on their website but turn out to be a BIG dissapointment! Have you ever been extremely dissapointed with your hotel? complained even? Or have you ever been more than impressed and happy with your hotel? So impressed that you go back often?

Hotels all have the same goal: to keep their customer's happy satisfied and most importantly create an enjoyable enough time that they will keep coming back to that hotel or hotel chain. Personally I have had experiences were I was so happy with the hotel and its services that I ONLY go to that hotel when I am in that certain area - it was a fantastic time! Unfortunaltely I have had one really awful experience where the hotel had mold/bugs/smelled/awful facilities/bad services/no heat/holes in the blankets etc etc.. Good thing I was only booked for one night! definitely won't be going back to that place again. Tell me about your experience?! good and bad!

International Travel Tips - Easy Travel Tips

2010-10-28T10:17:00.000-07:00

Hi there!!! I found this great video I wanted to show you from 'six minute style' on International Travel Tips - Easy Travel Tips. It features easy-to-follow travel tips including security, airline tickets, passports, currency and packing. Did you know between 12am and 1am airline's release their deals?! It's really interesting and I learned a lot of new travelling tips from it - ENJOY!

Travel Tips

2010-10-27T10:40:00.000-07:00

When many people travel to new country's they are not aware of the values or everyday customs of that particular country. Taking an international business course in school really opened my eyes to this. Whenever I travel - now or in the future I am always going to be sure I know at least the basics on the country I am visiting so I am polite and act appropriately at all times. I would like to hear your experiences with this (good or bad)?! And what did you learn from it?

Dream Destinations

2010-10-25T16:31:00.000-07:00

I've asked for your travel opinions and given you my thoughts now its time for a more informative/just for fun type of post- TripAdvisors top ten dream destinations! enjoy!!!

1. Alta Igloo Hotel Norway

2. Safari in Kenya

3. Staying in a Palace in Venice (my personal favourite)

4. Meeting penguins in Patagonia

5. The Red Square in Moscow

6. Camping with Mongols

7. Corsica - France

8. Mauritius - Africa

9. Watching turtles in Los Roques Venezuela

10. The Great Wall - China

Snow: Embrace it or Escape it?

2010-10-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

Woke up today and there was snow COVERING the ground... I was not pleased about this - however I know many love the snow and don't mind seeing it as early as October - are you one of those people?? Do you travel long distances to snowboard/ski/enjoy the winter weather (or travel for warm weather?) I know many people that travel for the whole winter (ex to florida) to escape the winter weather- this is something I would love to do.

So tell me your thoughts!! Do you travel for the snow?! Or travel to get away from it?

Get around this Fall

2010-10-12T17:46:00.000-07:00

Fall is a beautiful time of year; fresh smells, migrating birds, colourful vegetables, and the amazing changing leaves.

Canada has been blessed with breathtaking forestry and this time of year allows us to marvel in its beauty. Not sure what to do this time of year?

Well if you live in Central Ontario, there are lots of things to do and see just hours from the Cities. For example, there is the euphoric Scandinave Spa in Collingwood's beautiful Blue Mountain area. This spa is an over 18 spa (so you know it's peacful) which includes several hot and cold baths, a sauna, and a steam lodge with chairs around outdoor fireplaces, relaxation rooms, hammocks, and has a silence policy to ensure total tranquility and relaxation to its guests.
Not a spa person? There are so many outdoor activities as well! Apple picking at The Farmer's Pantry in the Grey Bruce area is a great way to spend a fall day. Apple picking is surprisingly fun and affordable and can easily become a family (or couple) tradition.

Enjoy hiking and site seeing? Try the Scenic Caves in Collingwood. This area allows for long hikes through the hills, caves, and the amazing suspension bridge! You won't believe your eyes!

Finally, looking for a weekend getaway? Check out the amazing Village at Blue Mountain for a beautiful, fun getaway any time of the year!

Well that's just a few suggestions.... let me know what you recommend!!!!

ps. Blue names lead to links for more info!!!

Canadian Colours

2010-10-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

Fall is my favourite season - when the leaves start to change scenery all around becomes beautiful! I've heard many travel into the country or to parts of the province that are more scenic than others. Stunning photographs can be taken by professionals or by those that just love taking pictures. Weddings are happening frequently to capture the moment with an unforgettable background. People venture farther to experience this beautiful time of year.

Would you be interested in doing this? Where do you like to travel to experience fall colours to their full effect??

It's Thanksgiving!

2010-10-06T11:51:00.000-07:00

It’s that time of the year! Turkey and stuffing all around, family time, being thankful for the things we have; and travel!

How far will you go to be with the ones you love on this holiday weekend?

I have to drive and hour and a half to see my grandparents this upcoming weekend but compared to others that I’ve heard, that sounds like nothing!

My friend and his family are flying all the way out to British Columbia this weekend to spend with the family!

On the contrast of this holiday, travel is suppose to be a fun, enjoyable experience; but not when everyone is trying to do it at the same time!

Hundreds of people this year will be flooding the airports and jamming the highways just to be close to those they care about. Although the arduous hours of travel are not the best part of this particular holiday, the end result of the journey is even more special. The long travel allows you to show those you care about just how much they really mean to you and just how much you are willing to go through to spend time with them.

So for this upcoming long weekend, I want to know; what’s the longest you have ever had to travel on a Thanksgiving weekend and what mode of transportation did you use?????

And to everyone, have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!!!

How Far Would You Travel For School?

2010-10-04T12:53:00.000-07:00

Many students are moving out of province and in some cases out of the country to go to College or University. Personally I would love to have travelled farther away or to a new country for school - it is much too expensive for my budget unfortunately!!! :( I am also the type of person who would probably miss home way to much as well! The culture shock would also be something else to consider - depending how far away you are moving and where. I'm sure in the end the experience is worth the cost by far.

I would like to hear from you guys - Who has moved far away for school?! Why and where?
If you have not like myself - why? and where would you go if you could??

50 things to do in British Columbia, Canada

2010-09-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

1. Visit world famous Butchart Gardens

2. Tour our world class Provincial Museum & Imax Theatre
3. Go whale watching
4. Take a scenic tour around Victoria - a city with world famous gardens and ambiance.
5. Visit the amazing Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre at the Marina in beautiful Sidney by the Sea
6. Soak up the entertainment (buskers), artists, and tasty treats in the Inner Harbour.
7. Visit Butterfly Gardens
8. Visit the Victoria Bug Zoo.
9. Go Fishing
10. Walk to the end of the Ogden Point Breakwater on Dallas Road- then have a treat in the restaurant when you return to shore. Check out the weather before you go.
11. Stroll through Beacon Hill Park - take in the Petting Zoo, Goodacre Lake, the free putting green, the summit lookout, behind the zoo and in the spring, the heron nests on the west edge of Goodacre lake.
12. Visit one of the rugged and beautiful West Coast Beaches past Sooke
13. Drop by Beacon Drive-In Restaurant on Douglas just west of Beacon Hill Park- for the world's best soft ice cream cones
14. Charter a sailboat and check out our waters
15. Visit quaint Sidney by the Sea
16. Cross the Blue Draw-Bridge and walk the Songhees to West Bay Marina. Stop for a local beer at Spinnakers Brew Pub along the way.
17. Take a Harbour Ferry Tour
18. Have English Style Fish and Chips at one of the many local establishments that serve them.
19. Visit the Wax Museum
20. Take a romantic carriage ride through Beacon Hill Park
21. Bike on the incredible Galloping Goose Trail from downtown to near Sooke or all the way to the Ferry Terminal at Swartz Bay
22. Scenic view - try Mount Tolmie near the University of Victoria- excellent City Views
23. Check out the University Finnerty Gardens
24. Visit the Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary and hike around the lake
25. Visit Playfair Park - Rhododenron Heaven in the spring
26. Hike the trails at East Sooke Park
27. Climb to the top of Lone Tree Hill in the Highlands
28. Try ocean kayaking
29. Walk and shop antique row on Fort Street
30. Rent a boat and explore our shoreline and protected islands
31. Have a swim at Saanich Commonwealth Place - water slide and wave pool
32. Take the Ferry to Sidney Spit Provincial Park (an island)
33. Take a scenic air tour by plane or helicopter
34. Visit the fabulous tide pools at Botanical Beach
35. Go Crabbing and have fresh crab for supper.
36. Go surfing at Jordan River
37. Hike the Juan de Fuca Trail-from China Beach to Botanical Beach at Port Refrew.
38. Visit the Saturday Market in Ganges on Saltspring Island
39. Climb Warbuton-Pike on Saturna Island - great scenery and feral goats
40. Catch prawns in Saanich Inlet
42. Have a day picnic at French Beach
43. Visit summer fruit and vegetable stands throughout the Saanich Peninsula and particularly on Oldfield Road.
44. Take a long walk at Island View Beach and check out the food concession at the end
45. Swim in the Sooke Potholes
46. Climb Mill Hill for great views of Juan de Fuca Strait
47. Visit the Maritime Museum in Sidney by the Sea
48. Visit Little Niagara Falls in Goldstream Provincial Park
49. Fish from the Pier in Sidney by the Sea
50. Visit the crafters on Mayne Island

West Coast!

2010-09-28T17:34:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!!! I want to hear about some great places to visit and things to see in British Columbia! I have travelled around Canada but have not made it out there yet and would absolutely love to see this beautiful and scenic place. What are your experiences if you have been to BC? If not where would you like to visit and what would you like to see there??

Good ol' Canada - East Coast!

2010-09-23T17:31:00.000-07:00

So about 6 years ago I took a trip to Nova Scotia (by plane thankfully). To sum the province up in one word: Breathtaking!

The majority of my trip was in Halifax, right by the harbour, where I saw Dalhousie University, historic war sites, and got an entire tour of the wonderful city.

If you are planning on traveling to this amazing province one day, I have a few things to say about it.

1. The people are some of the nicest, chattiest, soft-spoken, thoughtful people you may ever meet.

2. Fresh seafood! Oh my, if you are a seafood lover (fish, shellfish) then make sure you try something fresh from the ocean… Yum! Best clam chowder I have ever had!

3. Peggy’s cove is a must-see. This is a part of the Island that ever tourist must experience. Mind-blowing views, quaint little shops to pick up souvenirs (and cozy sweaters) and tall, thin houses that are painted nearly every colour under the sun!

4. MUST see the Titanic cemetery. It’s tricky to find, but trust me, once there, it is totally worth it. The area for the Titanic isn’t too big, but to see the stones of those who could not be named and were only given a name is haunting, but deep. It feels amazing to walk among those who were part of a major historic event and to be able to pay your respects brings out a strong sense of humility.

5. The tall ships along the harbour are amazing and if your get the opporunity to go on one, take it! I went on the Bluenose I and it was amazing! We fired a canon and even some some whales! Truly a once in a lifetime experience.

6. One of the best parts about the East Coast… Pubs EVERYWHERE! If you ever have a craving for a drink, there is no shortage in Halifax. Around every corner is a pub to meet your mood.

So if you’re thinking about a trip out East, I highly recommend Nova Scotia, driving along the coastline is so uplifting, it is a trip you will remember forever and be proud that it is part of your country. J

Let’s hear from you? Is there any particular province out East that you would recommend? What was your experience like? Even if you haven’t been, which province do you think you would be most likely/want to visit??

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2krP7HQMGgo (check out this video)

(West Coast coming shortly) ;)

24 Hours in... New York City

2010-09-22T08:19:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4DQKtYL62Q