Pets have held a special place in the hearts of many families all around the globe.Different breeds of cats and dogs hold the highest spots on the pet list.So when you go on a vacation it would be natural for most to bring their pets along.Whether it be a short vacation, a long vacation, one that would take a short drive, or one that would take an airplane ride, pets will be coming along.So if you’re a pet lover who would want to bring your cute pooch along on your next vacation, here are some of the most important things you need to know.

Practice

It is important for you to practice your pet.Teach your pet how it is to ride a car first before bringing him to a plane.Make sure your pet is accustomed to the crate where he will be kept, make sure he is accustomed to possible sounds he might be hearing on the trip, and teach him calmness when he’s alone and possibly in the dark.Bring your pet to the store with you and place him in his crate.Short trips will then move on to longer ones.Accustom him to peeing in his crate if he needs to.Pets get car sick too and it take practice to get used to traveling for them as well.

Papers

Makes sure you have necessary requirements for your pets especially when you are going out of the country.Contact your local government agency and ask about requirements needed when bringing pets along with you.There you would also be able to check requirements of the country you are going to.It is important to have complete and updated papers for your pet.

Bookings

Check with airlines regarding their policies on pets.Some allow pets in the cabin while others keep pets at the luggage area.Ask for prices for both and for requirements.Airlines that allow dogs on the cabin have weight and size specifications.Ask about that and how big of a crate you can bring.The crate usually should be able to fit under your chair.You may also ask about fees and check in procedure as you might have to do other inspections for your pet.

Hotels

Make sure you look for pet friendly hotels.It’s inappropriate to bring in pets at hotels that do not allow pets.No matter how small your chihua hua is, you will get caught for bringing in your pet.Better be safe and book at pet friendly establishments.There you and your pet will be able to relax and have fun.

Food, Drinks, and Medications

Bring with you necessary food, drinks, and medications for your pet. There is a chance that the hotel you’ll stay in won’t have the brand of food your pet needs.So be prepared and bring some along.
Taking your pet with you on your holiday vacation is an awesome thing to do.So long as you prepare well and you are able to complete necessary documentations then you’re good to go.Enjoy visiting pet friendly countries like the Netherlands with your pet!

Travel Tips When You’re With Your Pet! is a post from: Hostel Cosmos Amsterdam

Planning a trip to Europe? Going to Amsterdam for a vacation? Going on a trip is always fun.But sometimes excitement lets you forget some of the basic things you need to bring a long in any trip.For this coming holiday season, when you pack your stuff, you must remember to bring some of the most important things to bring but are commonly forgotten. Don’t waste time and money trying to look for these things and just bring them along on your trip.Here are some of the most important things you need to have on any trip or vacation.

Ziploc bags.

They are easy to pack and don’t take a lot of space. Packing them would be very easy to do.You may be asking what you would you be needing them for? You’d be surprised of how useful they are! You can use these Ziploc bags for storing items, trinkets, food, wet towels, and so much more! Items that you wouldn’t want to get wet can be kept in sturdy Ziploc bags too.

Medications.

Being in a foreign land most especially will be harder for you to get medicine.Especially for prescription medications you would have to bring your own.Countries where your native language is not spoken may have a hard time knowing what you need so make sure you have your medicine and other healthcare information with you.

Tissue and wet wipes.

Two important things to have in your handbag or carryon luggage. You’ll never really know if the bathroom you get to while touring has a supply of tissue or soap so make sure you have both with you.Take advantage of using wet wipes to help clean off your camera, your shoes, or anything you have with you that could need cleaning.

A raincoat or a poncho.

Especially when travelling to places where the weather is unpredictable, having a poncho or raincoat can save your day.It will not only be able to keep you dry from the rain but it can also keep you warm.Not to mention you can also keep some of your most important stuff from getting wet like your bag, cellular phone, and your camera. There are raincoats and ponchos that are lightweight, small, and cheap. Get one and bring it with you on your next travel.

Your most important toiletries.

You don’t have to bring the whole bottle of lotion you use for a three day vacation.There are a lot of small plastic containers that are approved by the airline industry for you to bring in on your flight. To be safe though you may also opt to put them in your checked in luggage.Transfer your most important necessities like shampoo, lotion, and moisturizer in small containers to save you on space.

Bringing these items on your next tip would be helpful for you.So on your next trip, make sure to pack your Ziploc bags, medication, tissue, wet wipes, raincoat or poncho, and to bring your most important toiletries.

What to Bring When Traveling? is a post from: Hostel Cosmos Amsterdam

When to visit Amsterdam?

Whole year round this city is visited by millions of tourists. Regardless if it’s sunny or if there’s a little drizzle, Amsterdam will still be a beautiful place to visit.Its charm will surely capture you no matter what the month.The months when Amsterdam gets the most travelers though are during April to September when the temperatures are better and also when days are longer.You can visit during these months or choose months when tourists are less.Either way you are sure to enjoy and have a blast!

What are some great things to do in Amsterdam?

1 Look into Amsterdam’s past.There are a lot of museums which showcase Amsterdam’s historical past.If you are visiting, make sure you drop by the Historisch Museum, which showcases centuries of Amsterdam’s evolution.Also drop by the Museum Amstelkring, a church that has been preserved well since the 17th century.Together with other beautiful museums, also drop by the Joods Historisch Museum where you will see the history of Judaism in Netherlands.

2 Explore the many canals in Amsterdam.There are 165 canals that encircle Amsterdam.When planning canal trips don’t forget to visit Prinsengracht where there are unique houseboats and a lot of shady trees.Here you will find great sites such as the Westerkerk and the Anne Frank House.You should also include the Brouwersgracht and also the area of Leliegracht.

3 Don’t forget to take a bike ride.When in Amsterdam you should always try to tour how most locals do – using their bike. If you must know, Amsterdam has 1 million bikes but only about 700,000 in population. It just goes to show that the best way for you to go around this beautiful city is by riding a bike.Don’t worry because there are a lot of bike lanes in Amsterdam! About 15,000 km of bike lanes!

4 You must try herring.You’ll see it all around Amsterdam – in restaurants, markets, cafes, and in food stalls in the streets.You must try this fish either raw of cooked.The best time to try herring raw is during May to July as the fish is sweetest during these months.

There are a lot more things you can do and try in Amsterdam.Just make sure you plan your visit ahead and you are sure to have a great time in this wonderful city!

When You Should Visit Amsterdam! is a post from: Hostel Cosmos Amsterdam

In Amsterdam you can: enjoy the art!

If you’re an art lover then Amsterdam is a fine place to visit.Start early to be able to visit more art museums and galleries.There are a lot to see so make sure prepare yourself starting from your attire to your route. Among the many art places to visit are:

1 Museumplein – here you will be delighted to view and explore the works of different artists.
Take your time and explore Van Gogh and Rijksmuseum to your heart’s content.Get the art inspiration you have been searching for!
2 Van Gogh – learn more about this amazing artist and experience his life through his art.
3 Rijksmuseum – learn about Holland’s Golden Age through various works of art.

In Amsterdam you can: enjoy the different sights!

Amsterdam is rich in exquisite architecture that you can take pictures of. Have loads of fun exploring the sights from their boutiques, museums, and their churches.You can walk your way through different streets that are filled with wonderful architectural sights.Visit churches like the gothic St.Bavo Church and enjoy your day trip.

In Amsterdam you can: go biking!

In Amsterdam it’s fun to tour around town with you bicycle.You can bring your own or you can rent there. You can bring your special someone to enjoy bike riding at night in Amsterdam where it’s very romantic at night.Enjoy the different canals and bridges, restaurants, and cafes with the use of your bike. Don’t forget to visit places like the Skinny bridge and different pubs around the area.

In Amsterdam you can: shop and get the latest fashion!

Whether it’s buying for yourself or as presents when you go back to your place, Amsterdam has a lot of fashionable places to visit. Get the latest in clothes and accessories at various shops and stores in Amsterdam.There are even stores that sell lovely vintage European clothing for your liking.Look into designer clothing and wonderful items in Amsterdam!

There are a lot of things you can do in Amsterdam! From strolling its busy and quiet streets, visiting its art galleries, shopping, eating, and doing recreational activities like biking.Enjoy Amsterdam in your next vacation and have a time of your life!

Vacation Ideas is a post from: Hostel Cosmos Amsterdam

Being able to travel is a luxury not everybody is lucky to experience. When given the chance though, it is important to be ready with the most important travel tips.Especially if it is your first time to travel looking into travel necessities is a must.Whether you are traveling to Europe to see Amsterdam, visiting Asia to experience the Philippines, or taking a trip to the U.S.to experience Las Vegas – being prepared is always your best ticket for having fun.Here then are some of the most important travel tips you need to know for your trip.

Be updated.

It is important that you have access to the latest travel advice in the country you are visiting.Most countries have free travel advisories that will update you through email.Subscribe to them to be updated on the notifications in that country.

Know the law and obey it.

It is important for you to know the law in the country you are visiting and it is adamant that you obey the law.Consular assistance cannot overpower local laws so it is up to you to know the laws of the land you are visiting.

Visas and passports.

Know the requirements of the place you are visiting.Some may require visas aside from your passport.If you already have both, make sure they are not expired. Often times you forget to look at your documents until your flight is near.It would be hard if not impossible to get documents renewed faster than the given regular renewal process. Passports should at least be six months valid when leaving.

Make copies.

It is very important to make copies of your visas, passport, insurance policy, airline tickets, traveler’s checks, and even your credit card numbers.Cary a copy of your photocopied documents in a different place from the originals.It would also be wise to leave copies at home.You may also scan them and send a copy to your email to make accessing easy.

Health alert.

Check with healthcare professionals regarding necessary vaccinations required for the place you are visiting. If there are any, make sure you get them before leaving.Bring necessary medications you need for yourself and for emergency purposes.It is important to know if there are travel rules on bringing in medication in the country you are visiting.

Travel itinerary.

It is important to leave a copy of your travel itinerary to people at home.Leave phone numbers and addresses of the hotels you will be staying at.Make sure you keep contact with loved ones when traveling.

Packing.

It is important to pack smart and to pack light.There will always be a security check at airports, bus stations, train stations, and the like. Make sure you pack with security in mind.Don’t lock luggage until after they have been checked by appropriate personnel.

With these tips in mind you will surely have a better trip.Keep them in mind and enjoy many other trips to come!

Travel Tips for First Time Travelers is a post from: Hostel Cosmos Amsterdam

Know the perfect time to visit.

The peak season of travelling to Europe is during the summertime.This is also when crowds are there the most, so if you would like to visit Europe with less crowds and cheaper everything (airfare, hotels, etc.), then visit during off peak seasons.Stay away from summer and get better deals.Also, you may take flights on weekdays which are also less expensive than weekend flights.Plan your visit well and look into months that are not included in the peak season.

Go exploring the cheap way.

Coming from the airport you can easily save money by taking the train. You see the Schiphol airport is well connected by train to central Amsterdam.You can easily get to where you need to go from the airport by train instead of through a taxi.It’s a lot cheaper.Exploring the city is also a lot easy and less expensive if you opt to take the public transportation.Use the railroad system, the tram, or the best way – rent a bicycle.The choice of most Amsterdamers, you can rent a bicycle in a lot of places is Amsterdam.It’s cheap and it’s good for your health.

The best places to stay when on a budget.

There is a lot of one and two star hotels you can pick from that are cheaper than higher star hotels.Their service is okay and if you only plan to sleep there and tour the rest of the day, then they should be fine.There are also a lot of small budget hotels and hostels that are popular among youngsters.Hostels are dorm style places where bunk beds are used.There’s a common kitchen and a common bathroom.Some have internet and laundry services that will help you save even more.

Best places to eat.

One of the top places to eat and save money is in the streets of Amsterdam where a lot of street vendors are located.You’ll find some of the best traditional Dutch foods such as herring, meatballs, waffles, and so much more.You can get everything from drinks to soup from vendors on the street.Don’t worry as street vendor foods are tasty and clean.

You see, going around and visiting Amsterdam need not be an expensive experience.With the right plan and a good research, you’ll be able to go around this lovely city without breaking your wallet.Enjoy Amsterdam!

Travel Amsterdam and Still Save Money is a post from: Hostel Cosmos Amsterdam

You have to take a canal tour.

There’s no trip in Amsterdam that will be complete without having a water-borne tour of the marvelous canals of Amsterdam. These canals are historical and vital to the people of Amsterdam even during the 17th century when these canals became essential to transportation and also to defense.On a guided canal tour you will be able to understand the history of the canals, their importance, and their beauty.There are about 165 historic canals that have been retained all over the city.You’ll have a great first impression of the city of Amsterdam if you take a canal tour first.

Take a look at Amsterdam’s wonderful art.

The Netherlands have pioneered in the arts for many years.Proof of this stands in dozens of museums located in Amsterdam.Devoted to the fine arts, the Netherlands has taken much pride in the art works that they have.Look into various museums like the Rembrandt House Museum, the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Stedelijk Museum.There are a lot more museums to visit and if you have time to visit as much as you can, go ahead and do it. It’s worth the travel and queues.

Experience World War II and the Jews.

You can’t leave Amsterdam without taking a look at the historical and well preserved House of Anne Frank.As you will be able to see, the Netherlands was not exempt from the horror of the ugly World War II. In this house you will be able to see a “secret annex” where Anne, her parents, her sister, and three other Jews hid for two years while Anne wrote her now famous diary.Other museums where you can experience and see the Dutch World War II are the Jewish Historical Museum and the Verzetsmuseum.You may also visit memorials like the Dutch National Monument and the Homomonument.

Experience the Dutch comfort food.

Traditional Dutch cuisine is simply that – comfort food.Your belly will surely be warmed up by rich Dutch soup served all year long.Must try soups include the erwtensoep or the split pea soup and you can also try the stammpot boerenkool a type of potato soup.Other favorites include pancakes, cheese, herring, and French fries.

These are some of the top things you must not forget to do and visit in Amsterdam when you visit.There are still more so prepare yourself and plan your itinerary well.

Top Things to Do In Amsterdam! is a post from: Hostel Cosmos Amsterdam

Here are some interesting things you can do with your kids in Amsterdam:

1 A canal tour for both young and old. Children and adults both enjoy spending time in a canal tour. Who wouldn’t want to experience riding a oat and being able to see crooked buildings, great bridges, and various other sites in Amsterdam.A canal boat ride will surely entertain your young companions while you will enjoy the tour as well.For older kids they will also enjoy a four-seater, self-propelled, canal bike.If you have kids that are big enough to be able to propel the canal bike then you can take them with you on this unique activity.

2 Parks and playgrounds.Both fun for children and adults, you may also bring your entire family to various parks and playgrounds in Amsterdam.The Vondelpark is one of them and you can have your kids enjoy the wading pool during the summer.You and your family may also visit the Het Groot Melkhuis (The Big Milkhouse), a family friendly café that has a huge playground.

3 Fun activities at various museums.Most museums in Amsterdam offer unique programs for kids.You can inquire and ask about children programs. Some of the museums you can inquire from include: the Van Gough Museum, the Rijsmuseum, NEMO, the Maritime Museum, the Jewish Historical Museum, and the Tropenmuseum. Most have interactive displays, weekend workshops, audio tours, treasure hunts, and other fun activities and attractions for kids.

4 Free activity for kids. If your children love horses then you better plan a trip to Amsterdam’s Hollandsche Manege or the Dutch Riding School.Here you and your kids will be able to see people of all ages who are learning to ride.Your kids will surely have fun and enjoy this trip.Best of all, going to this place will not cost you anything.There are no entrance fees to pay and watching is 100% free of charge.

Traveling with kids who have short attention spans and who easily get bored is a challenge.With this list of fun and exciting activities though you won’t have a difficult time bringing your kids along in Amsterdam.A place where kids are accepted and very much encouraged to visit, putting Amsterdam in your must go to places with your family is a necessity.Enjoy Amsterdam with your kids and enjoy your trip!

Touring Amsterdam with Your Children! is a post from: Hostel Cosmos Amsterdam

So how well do you know the Dutch? How familiar are you with the Netherlands.Here is a fun test you can take to gauge your knowledge about the Dutch people and the Netherlands.

1. What is the capital city of the Netherlands? If your answer is Amsterdam then you are correct.Give yourself a small clap as this is just the easy part.
2. Is Holland a city found in the Netherlands? If you answered yes you are absolutely wrong. Holland is actually the Netherlands.The Dutch has two names for their country.You can either call it Holland or the Netherlands.
3. Are the Dutch the tallest people in the world? Yes this is absolutely true.
4. Do the Dutch prefer riding bicycles than driving a car? This is actually a fact.Every one owns a bicycle and did you know that the number of bicycles is more than that of cars.In fact it’s double the total number of cars.
5. In the capital city of the Netherlands there are over 12,000 bridges. Fact or Fiction? This is a fact.The Dutch are great architectures and when you visit its capital city you would definitely be impressed with great architectural structures and monuments.
6. In the Netherlands anyone who is already 14 years old or older is required to have a valid and original proof of identity.If you think this is not true, you don’t know the Dutch very well.It is actually an obligation for people in Holland who is 14 years and older to carry valid identification cards at all times.
7. Where is the government of the Netherlands located? Don’t hastily answer the capital city of the Netherlands as this is not correct.The government is actually located in Hague.
8. How many cows are there in the Netherlands? Are you stumped with this question? Actually the approximate number is 1.5 million cows. Now that’s a lot of mooing and of course lots of milk.In fact 10 million litres of milk.
9. Do the Dutch love cheese? Yes, indeed. 14.3 kg of cheese per year is consumed on an average by one Dutch.
10. Is it true that the Schiphol Airport is 4 metres below sea level? Yes this is true.
11. Is December 5 the most celebrated holiday by the Dutch? This is indeed true.Saint Nicholas’ Eve falls on the 5th of December and the Dutch love this traditional holiday very much.
12. How would the Dutch describe themselves in a saying? Well if you can answer this correctly then you definitely know very well the Dutch.The famous saying is “act normally, that’s crazy enough”.The Dutch love their freedom of expression and they have a big heart for tolerance.

So how well did you do on this test? There are so many interesting facts about the Netherlands and definitely this country is worth visiting.In fact millions fly to the Netherlands to experience the Dutch life.

Going to Amsterdam? is a post from: Hostel Cosmos Amsterdam

Don’t forget to take a canal tour boat.

Although you may explore the different canals of Amsterdam by walking or biking, it is a different experience if you visit one or several canals through a canal tour boat.You should absolutely take one. Taking one will be able to give you a unique and wonderful perspective of the city.You will be able to experience the canals in a different way – some boats are made of glass ceilings which will definitely give you a unique perspective of the canals and Amsterdam itself.

Love Amsterdam’s architecture.

Architecture dating from the 17th century will truly amaze you.Make sure you take a trip to see the lovely and historical sites of Amsterdam.There are different churches, bridges, building, and various other structures you should not miss.Many of their structures were built during the Golden Age but some churches such as the Old Church date back up to the 13th century.So if you would like to experience the olden times in Amsterdam, you must see the Old City Center of Amsterdam and marvel at their architecture.

Enhance your culture and look at the art.

Of course a place as magnificent as this would surely have some famous artists who marveled at its beauty.Such is the case in Amsterdam where a lot of beautiful and famous artwork are displayed for the public to see.Inspired by different places and eras in the land, experience Amsterdam’s history through different works of art.Go through places like the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, and other art galleries all over the city.Learn more about the people of Amsterdam, their culture, and their history through these places. Marvel at what Amsterdam has accomplished over the years.You may also experience culture and art through modern day activities such as concerts and live music.There are free concerts and live music in Amsterdam you just have to ask about schedules.

An extremely interesting place to see and visit, you will surely have a lot of fun in this city.If you will be visiting this place soon, you must start planning out how to tour the place.You’ll have a lot of area to cover and a lot of great sites to see.Have fun in Amsterdam!

Top Places to Visit in Amsterdam! is a post from: Hostel Cosmos Amsterdam