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5000 years of history in Chania

Located in the west of Crete is the historic and charming town of Chania with its Venetian harbour and quaint streets. Some say it has the feel and ambience of Florence or Venice and certainly there are some great old buildings dating from Venetian and Turkish invasions.

The Venetian Harbour

Take in the colourful buildings as you explore the waterfront. Maybe walk along the harbour wall to the lighthouse, which also dates from Venetian times. Don’t miss the Venetian Arsenali – dry docks to you and me – where you’ll find a reconstructed Minoan ship. If you’re an early bird head down to the harbour for 5.30–6.00am to see the sunrise; the light is amazing.

The Museums

The Maritime Museum on the waterfront is worth a visit to learn the history of this island – it’s not dull we promise you.

The Archaeological Museum in Halidon Street is also fascinating and costs about €3 for entry. If you’re captivated by archives, the Historical Archives are free to wander round any weekday. Another one to take your fancy might be the Byzantine Museum, which you can find behind the Maritime Museum.

Squares, Churches and other buildings

Where there’s history there’s always a few churches!  Chania is no different.

• Church of the Trimartyri is actually a Greek Orthodox Cathedral. This 19^th Century Neo-classical building can be found on Plateia Mitropoleos, a square lined with cafes. Time for another stop?
• The Roman Catholic Church is plain by comparison but is approached down a vaulted alley in Old Town.
• See the old Turkish Hamman in Old Town. Don’t be surprised to find the current occupants are more interested in selling you clothes than handing out towels.
• The Venetian Donkey Steps are double width so that the donkeys could get all four legs on them. They lead from the harbour to Plateia Aghiou.
• Visit Mercato Agora the local market in the cobbled streets – you won’t be disappointed.

Yes even when you’re busy enjoying the delights of a cheap crete 2013 all inclusive holiday, it’s worth taking a step outside to see the sights.

Ibiza Rocks

Ibiza rocks is a venue which throughout summer plays host to some of the best live acts and DJs around right now, from the festival headliners to new break through talent. This year the intimate outdoor venue will see a 16 week summer season. Here are some of the highlights planned for 2013.

June- 5^th: opening night with Jake Bugg, 7^th: Zane Lowe & Baauer, 19^th: The Vaccines

July- 5^th: Example & DJ Wire, 10^th: Tinie Tempah, 31^st: Chase and status

August- 9^th: Rinse FM with Katy B, 21^st: Ellie Goulding, 28^th: Dizzee Rascal

September- 6^th: Rinse FM with Skepta/so solid crew, 18^th: Closing party with Foals

Pacha

Once the party season gets in full swing on the 22^nd May with the newly named “Wisdom or the Glove” opening party, each night of the week sees a different themed night (repeated weekly). They feature the most talented and well known Djs from around the world packing an audience of 3000 inside its famous walls.

Mondays: Epica- big room house music

Tuesdays: Flower Power- Classic 60s and 70s

Wednesdays: Wisdom or the Glove- underground

Thursdays: FMIF- Big room house music with David Guetta

Fridays: Insane- Underground

Saturdays: Pure Pacha- House

Sundays: Solomun+1- Underground

Space

Space, located in Playa d’en Bossa, is one of Ibiza´s largest super clubs where its huge opening party on the 26^th May unofficially kicks off the entire Ibiza summer clubbing season. The season lasts until 29^th September.

Sundays: We Love…- Electronic music

Mondays: Café Ole- House

Tuesdays: 9^th July for 12 weeks: The Revolution, The Party unites.  Carl Cox with guests- techno

Wednesdays: Ibiza Calling- Underground

Thursdays: Enter- Minimal. Innovation, new technology and new concepts

Fridays: Clandestin- New night featuring resident DJ Felix Da Housecat starts 28^th June

Saturdays: Kehakuma- Underground house music

Amnesia

The 5000 person capacity venue is one of Ibiza´s must legendary clubs. Now owned by Cream, from 2006, Amnesia won the Best Global Club award at the Winter Music conference three years in a row, before installing the latest lighting technology of a 24 color laser system.

Mondays: Cocoon- Techno and House

Tuesdays: Together- Electronic

Wednesdays: La Troya- Themed

Thursdays: Cream- Dance

Friday: Music on- Techno

Saturday: Matinee- DJs, dancers, performers from Matinee Group

Sunday: Pop star- progressive & house DJs. Pop artist collaborations with resident DJ Brian Cross

So, what´s it going to be?

Why not hire a car in Alicante for a couple of days and head along the coast? Beat the crowds going north to Benidorm, and set the sat-nav for some of the smaller towns to the south. And if you’ve wondered what’s going on under that sapphire sea, how about a boat trip to an island where the marine life is close enough to touch? Take time out on Tabarca, and a step into Spain’s past.

Spot some starfish!

Tabarca Island is just a short hop from the mainland, but it can seem like a world away from the busy resorts. You can catch a ferry from Alicante, but by far the best option is a twenty-minute drive to Santa Pola, where you can choose how you travel to this little magical isle. The fastest route is by water taxi, but for a crossing that’s part of the whole experience, a glass-bottomed catamaran trip takes around half an hour. You’ll want time for wandering, so try to catch an early departure – it’s wise to check the website for seasonal changes to times.

Park up at Santa Pola’s harbour, and buy your ticket for a morning trip. The last return journey is early evening, and you won’t want to rush back. It’s a bit choppy on the journey, but when you’re watching fish swim by, or marvelling at coloured corals, you’ll be landing on the quayside before you’ve noticed the swell. La Tabarca is a marine reserve, so you could spot sea urchins or starfish, and the water’s so clear that you can see the ocean floor!

Walk off that long lunch

Some of those submarine creatures might well end up on your plate if you eat at the island’s port. It can be a bit pricy, but you’re paying for flavour and freshness, along with a harbourside seat where you can watch the catch come in. Take a little time choosing and you can find a fair-priced menú del día, or you could pack up a picnic and find your own little cove. If your budget runs to a restaurant, try the local caldero, a hearty two-course rice dish full of flavours from the sea.

If you’re not really captivated by crustaceans, whether they’re swimming about or served up with a sauce, there’s more to the island than marine life and seafood specials. There’s an unspoilt old-world charm to Isla Tabarca that’s a real contrast with brash Benidorm-style bustle. It’s a little like the Med in microcosm. You can take a walk right around the island and it never feels like a route-march. You’re on sandy paths, not scaling a peak. And around each curve of the coast-walk, there are new discoveries, from the wilder east side to the little unspoilt town.

Peace, or a pedalo?

If you’re seeking seclusion, head east towards the lighthouse, or you could stop in the town’s plaza to see the old baroque church. If you just want sheltered beaches, choose horseshoe-shaped Cova de Birros, or stick to the main Playa if you want a bit more to do. If you’re travelling with teens, they might want to try snorkelling or a pedalo. Toddlers will be happy with ice cream and a paddle in a rock pool, or you could tell them tales of the pirates that once used Tabarca as a place to hide.

Some visitors fall in love with the island, and return to the tourist towns with a hint of sadness. And some long for some shopping and a buzzing seafront bar. If Tabarca didn’t entrance you, there’s still Santa Pola. You’ll have seen its modern marina as you started your trip. So you might want to linger for the evening before you head home, or make a note to come back for a rummage at its Monday market. The allure of this coast is that there’s something to please everyone – pick up a map, pile in the car, and find your very own bit of bliss.

International Language Academy of Canada (ILAC) will be placed in preferable slot by many because of their running English Summer Camp. This could be truly an ultimate experience of the students for interaction with tutors and course mates while learning. There are good reasons for ILAC having the privilege of receiving most of the awards like Best English School in North America (Lifetime Winner – LTM Superstar Award, Best University Pathway Program in Canada (Best Language School in Canada, Best Language School in Canada (Best Language School in Canada by Students) and some more.

In fact, this institution was recognized as the highest ranked language schools in Canada in the last year. They work in partnership with more than 50 universities and colleges in Canada, hold small size classes comprising of maximum 12 students, starting fresh classes every two weeks and voted as the topmost English language school in Canada.

University of Toronto English language program is another place of learning in world class standards and environment. Learning English in Toronto University is sure to make you fluent and have a good grip over the language for all academic requirements and career necessities. The students who intend to carry out studies in Canada have to hold IELTS or TOFEL certificates as an evidence of their proficiency in language. Those who do not hold a certificate are required to attend the language program.  The program is designed for writing well-structured academic papers, full knowledge of citation and referencing, and communication with accuracy and fluency after completion of the course.  Classes are available in different sections of days and timings.

Kaplan’s English school is another place to learn English in Toronto.  At Kaplan’s you will find a variety of courses to suite different requirements. Vocational English is a good example of learning and gaining fluency in the language during holidays while exploring the country. Intensive English Course is designed for fastest learning and gaining fluency in the language. Likewise, the institute holds a big range of English learning courses; a few are TOFEL EXAM Preparation, Internship, and Cambridge Exam preparation.

The good news is that with proper preparation and diligent follow-through start-up businesses do succeed and thrive. The keys to being one of the success stories and owning and operating a going enterprise is having a well developed business plan and sticking to it. Business plans all follow a set framework but there are things that are specific to a shuttle service that must be included.

The Business Plan
Business plans are often referred to as a road map to success which is an apt description. A well written and thoroughly researched business plan presents and honest evaluation of what needs to be done to start, run and grow the business. A good business plan also takes into account obstacles and makes provisions to overcome them.

A business plan has two main purposes, a guide for the ownership and management of the shuttle bus service and a means to attract and secure financing from potential partners, investors and banks. In fact most sources of financing will not even consider extending credit without a business plan.

The Paperwork
Many businesses require state and local licenses and permits before than can begin operating. A shuttle bus service is not exception and depending on your location may require a more rigorous licensing process than other businesses. Consulting with an attorney or CPA who is familiar with your locality will help you determine not only what licenses are required but also what form your new business should take, such as; sole proprietorship, limited liability company (LLC), corporation or partnership.

Whether your plan is to drive your shuttle bus yourself or to hire a team of drivers, training, licensing and adequate insurance are considerations that you must take into account. The success of your business rests on potential customers trusting that they will be safe and secure when they step onto your shuttle bus.

Marketing
Marketing starts with determining what type of shuttle bus service you want to offer, commuter, airport, shopping or something else. Marketing starts with determining what needs are being underserved or can be better served by improved service and than seeking to attract those customers. For example a shuttle bus service that is geared toward serving the elderly but is located in a college community might not have enough potential customers to be a success.

Once the market for your shuttle bus service has been identified you will need to attract customers and that is where the advertising portion of marketing comes into play. Newspaper ads and fliers have to be designed and written for the specific market you are hoping to build. Joining organizations that provide access to potential customers and build word of mouth buzz should also be a part of your marketing efforts.

At the end of the day the success of your shuttle bus service rests on your shoulders and will be built on the foundation of research that you built in the preparation stage of writing and developing your business plan.

Bio – Paul is a freelance writer for Buses for Sale and is interested in places where individuals and businesses can find a shuttle bus for sale .

Car Hire: The Pros

The biggest advantage to hiring a car while you’re on holiday is the complete freedom to create your own schedule. No more waiting for local buses, taxis, or group tours to take you to the destinations you want to see. Car hire is especially convenient if you’re staying outside of a major city, where local transportation may be less frequent or reliable. If you’re planning to visit multiple destinations on your trip, a car hire can eliminate the headache of booking a bus or plane to get from one destination to another.

The other major benefit to hiring a car is the extra space. This is especially advantageous if you’re travelling with kids and need to have easy access to toys, snacks, change of clothes, etc. Most companies allow you to select the type and size of car, so you can choose the vehicle that best suits your personal needs.

Car Hire: The Cons

Of course, there are some pitfalls to car hire as well. The first is the issue of insurance. While most companies do offer some level of insurance, these “collision damage waivers” carry an excess that you will be expected to pay yourself should you decide to make a claim. The best approach is to take out a policy from a third-party provider before you depart so you can be certain that you are fully insured in the event of the accident.

Beware of mileage and fuel restrictions as well. If you exceed your allotted mileage on your trip, you will be charged for it. You should also plan to fill up the petrol tank before you return the vehicle, as the company is likely to charge you a higher rate for an empty tank. Most importantly, make sure you’re getting what you paid for. If you need help, get holiday advice from Irwin Mitchell to clear up any questions you may have.

Other Transportation Options

If you decide that hiring a car is too cumbersome, you’ll need to find an alternative means of arriving to your accommodations. Taxis are the most comfortable—if expensive—option; make sure you take a licensed taxi and check a site like WorldTaxiMeter.com to get an idea of how much the fare will be. Depending on where you go, you might also be able to take advantage of a local shuttle bus or subway service, but remember that these may not be the most convenient options if you’re travelling with a lot of luggage.

So get your trusty set of binoculars packed – Uttings Outdoors are offering binoculars from Opticron and Nikon for bargain prices in case you are running short on reliable equipment – and book your trip to one of these four destinations in Asia.

India

Let’s begin the list with a country that often pops up on people’s top ten backpacking countries on earth – India.

So why is this country so popular? One of the main reasons is likely because of the fascinating buildings and locations which are dotted all across this vast nation.

From the instantly recognisable Taj Mahal to discovering the startling contrast between the vibrant city of Mumbai and the seaside oasis of Goa, there is just so much to see and do once in this awe-inspiring country.

What’s more, backpackers on a budget and hoping to stretch their cash as far as possible will also be pleased to hear that India’s food, accommodation and travel are often available very cheap when compared to other destinations across the globe.

Vietnam

Vietnam has sure had its fair share of bad fortune in the history books. A number of highly-publicised wars held the country back for many years, and yet it has emerged as one of the world’s most beautiful nations now that it is once again enjoying peacetime.

The country was put in the mainstream spotlight a few years back when it was featured on a special edition of BBC’s well-loved motor series Top Gear – have a look here if you need a reminder.

Backpackers can follow in the footsteps of Jeremy Clarkson and company by stopping off at the stunning havens of Hanoi and Danang City, although the highlight of the tour could well be a visit to the mystical Halong Bay.

Indonesia

Indonesia sets itself apart from every other country on the planet due to it being made up of thousands of islands, each of which is just as fascinating to explore as the last.

Backpackers who take the time to explore as much of Indonesia as they possibly can will likely pass through spectacular rainforests, vibrant jungles and lush silver beaches lapped with crystal-clear green waters by the end of their travels.

For actual destinations to make a note of in your self-made itinerary, Harau Valley at Abdi Homestay and Lake Maninjau are both brilliant starting points.

In its top ten backpacking countries guide, Ask Men went as far as to call Thailand “ backpacker’s paradise”. Once you do a little research into the country though, it soon becomes clear why the publication feels this way.

For one, the country is packed to the brim with historical and cultural architectural masterpieces. The Wat Arun temple, the Wat Phra Kaeo temple, the Wat Benchamabophitr landmark and Bangkok’s Grand Palace all must be seen to be believed.

Thailand is also very inviting to tourists, thanks to how well the country’s mass transit system has been set up and operated. This is not to mention the glorious Thai cuisine which is served up fresh from many of the nation’s restaurants at excellent prices.

My surroundings

Vietnam has oodles of natural beauty! And it has is all; mountains, beaches and its surreal lime stone islands. By TEFL in Vietnam I have worked the typical average of 20-25 hours per week and this has given me plenty of time to explore. I live in the capital Hanoi. With French and Chinese cultural influences, Hanoi has a bustling, big city feel. I love the old part of the city where traditional life is in abundance as well as the parks, when in search of a little peace and quiet. In Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam’s economic driving force) a fascinating mixture of traditional native heritage and 21^st century economic growth can be found.

The Food

The food in Vietnam really is a treat for the eyes, the nostrils and the taste buds. I don´t think a day has gone by when I haven’t got to try something delicious. One of my favorite things to do is to visit the markets to sample the street food. Although some foods, for me, are definitively a no-go, I often discover new, tasty dishes. The food-only markets are the best as they are less touristic. As a rule of thumb, where the locals go, I follow. As in the whole of Southeast Asia, rice plays a central role. I often find myself eating it for lunch and dinner, which is something I would never do at home. But also in Vietnam, noodles are just as popular, coming in all different shapes and sizes. One thing I love is that the street food is always fresh. Whether its seafood or meat, fruit or veg, great tasting choices are always to hand.

The People

There is a general culture of respect for others in Vietnam and it is evident in everyday life. People are generally friendly and accepting and I can say that I have never once felt uncomfortable or threatened. The Vietnamese economy is growing and you can see why. The people appear incredibly hardworking and optimistic, a positivity that has rubbed off on me. When I started teaching, I was initially wary, as I did not know what to expect. However, the mentality runs in the schools as well, where the children possess a genuine respect for teachers. The children are attentive, open and have a real desire to learn, especially English, which really makes a difference!

My Experience

I live with another English teacher who I met at the public school where I teach. Accommodation is very affordable and so is the cost of living. Pay is well enough to live a comfortable lifestyle. I have met friends for life, seen the sites of this diverse country, gained priceless work experience and learned about myself in the process. The confidence I have gained from this adventure will last me a lifetime.

Laura Wright is an English teacher who loves travelling and, after a year spent teaching English as a foreign language in Vietnam, wanted to share her experience with you all. 

1. Have a sturdy backpack:

Make sure you invest in a good quality backpack. It should be spacious and should fit your lower back perfectly to meet your body’s comfort in weight and volume. Do not invest in something only because you are getting in for a great price, also check on the durability and if possible ask for a warranty card from the company.

2.  Get a Good Lock:

It may sound very basic but investing a good quality lock goes a long way in making a trip safe and sound. It should be something that isn’t too fancy to operate and at the same time guarantees a good amount of security.

3.  Know the baggage requirements:

In certain countries like the USA there are very strict baggage check rules. They allow only a certain type of lock on your backpacks and if it does not match the ones that they stand by they will ask you to open your baggage to check on the contents. Hence make sure to study the specific baggage requirements of the country you are planning to visit.

4. Secure your backpack with a chain:

A good strong metal chain can be wrapped around your backpack quite easily with a lock if you have to leave your baggage for some time. It can have its own locking system with a combination lock ensuring maximum safety.

5. Have an Address Tag:

In case of your baggage getting lost or being delayed due to change in flights, have your address posted on it is a safe way to ensure that it gets returned you as soon as possible either by the flight personnel or someone else who has come across it.

6.  Check the Destination tag:

Make sure that after you check in, the luggage staffs has given you the correct destination tag with your flight’s code number along with your seat number and name attached. This will prevent your luggage from getting lost or misplaced.

7.  Do not carry anything illegal:

Be sure to avoid carrying anything that is against the protocols of your host country’s immigration standards. Also, do not carry more than the weight prescribed. Duty- free shopping is the best way to ensure that nothing unwanted has been kept in your backpack.

8.  Keep your Travel Insurance in Handy:

Do not place your travel insurance in your main backpack. Keep it along with your other travel documents and passport in your handbag or carry bag, since in a case of loss of luggage or contents, you can place a complaint immediately and demand fast action.

Travel safe and travel light. Ensure your safety with these few tips that can be very essential guides in making your trip a great experience that gives your happy and lasting memories.

Bio: Michelle Ro is a travel agent that plans golf vacations in the UAE, safari trips in Africa and organizes river rafting races in Canada. He loves his job and is always backpacking to a new country anytime he gets the chance.

1.     Get locks for the Backpack’s Zippers

This is the simplest step to consider while talking about the safety of your backpack. Even the smallest of the locks can save you from pick pocketing as you can never see whatever is happening behind you. We usually limit our safety measures to wallets while thinking of pick pockets but back packs are a much easier target. You might be simply sitting somewhere with your back pack besides you and it would even take a moment to reach in for pulling out something valuable. Especially when you are travelling with a great camera, tablet or other valuables, spending a few bucks on a mere lock can actually aid you in saving a fortune.

2.     Keep the valuables wisely

Where you keep all the valuables such as your passport, ID, Money, Plane tickets etc. become important while travelling aboard. Never keep all such items in the outer pocket of your backpack as they can be easily stolen from there. Therefore, the best place for them is the inner and the bigger pockets. Not only are these pockets less accessible but are also deep and so can easily hold all your important stuff.

3.     Prefer a lightened load

Ideally, the total weight of your filled backpack should never succeed more than fifteen percent of your total body weight. The foremost way to lighten the total load is to remove any kind of the non-essentials. Remember, even an extra novel and a different hairbrush can add weight. Simply get down to basic needs and pack accordingly.

4.     Pick the right size of the bag

Yes the bag size is also crucial. For instance, adult backpacks are made strictly for adults and not for children. You must always buy a backpack so as to fit your body size. Many catalogs and stores list all this information along with the other product description. If it is not given, simply confirm it from the seller. Remember, while the shoulder straps of the bag are adjusted, its bottom should lie at least two inches above your waistline. If you plan to carry a lot of valuables or electronics, pick a bad which is internally wide than the one that is equipped with more external pockets.

5.     Position the bag properly

You must always wear your backpack in a proper manner in order to avoid imbalance and muscle strain. You should wear the shoulder straps in a way that both of them are easily snug. If your backpack is equipped with a waist strap, use it in order to distribute the entire weight evenly. Also, try to maintain a good and straight posture while carrying the backpack. It is always tough or rather impossible for picketers to steal from a bag which has been firmly positioned and tightly handled by its owner. Even if they will try a grab, you will easily come to know.

6.     Set the time limit

Wearing your backpack for continuous and longer lengths can be both mentally as well as physically strenuous. Therefore, always try to wear it for a maximum of thirty minutes or even lesser. This rule can be easily followed unless you are jaunting across a rambling campus or are on an all day hike. If it still seems tough, prefer carrying a much lighter load. As far as you have kept your valuables carefully in the inner pockets and secured the outer pockets with locks, your backpack is safe.

Author Bio:

Bill Clark runs his own travelling channel on a local level. He is also an active member of the international forum for the travelers and provides special offers for car hire in Tenerife.