Let it suffice to say that I definitely agree to the world being our classroom; albeit a classroom and playground in one. As you travel you get to learn more than just your basic math, although you’ll probably get really good at time and currency conversion. You get to learn more important things like the history and culture of the people in each place you visit. You get to refine your palate with gastronomical delights (although not all are always delightful). And you get to appreciate the different sights and sounds unique to each place.

What I have learned over the years though, is that when it comes to learning more about the place I have visited, the places whose language I understand (even if just barely understand) are those that I am able to appreciate in greater depth. This isn’t surprising since we all know the difficulties the language barrier poses. That is why I make it a point to learn at least the basic phrases before heading to a new place. What’s more interesting about language though is that as soon as you immerse yourself in the environment, the faster you’ll surely pick up new words and phrases. So if it’s a specific language you want to learn, there’s no better way to learn it than to travel. Go to the language’s home country. Learn Thai in Bangkok, go to China for Mandarin, and head to Quebec or Paris for authentic French lessons. In the end, you’ll not only learn the language but you’ll do it while having fun and a lots of unforgettable memories that will last you a lifetime.

Image via SteveWheeler

You never know when emergencies can happen, which is why it is best to be prepared. A first aid kit is the most basic thing everyone must have especially when travelling. You may purchase ready-made kits through the Red Cross Store or you can check your local pharmacies or supermarkets. Kits for specific activities such as camping, boating and hiking are also available.

You may also assemble your own kit to fit your preference. Basic medications, such as antihistamines, analgesics and the likes are helpful items which may come in handy. Emergency numbers as well as insurance information would be useful too. A flashlight with batteries may be considered too. It is important to check your kit prior to every trip to make sure that it is complete or to replenish used items.

Based on the Red Cross recommendations, here is a list of items you should have in your first aid kit:

2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)

25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)

1 adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch)

5 antibiotic ointment packets (approximately 1 gram)

5 antiseptic wipe packets

2 packets of aspirin (81 mg each)

1 blanket (space blanket)

1 breathing barrier (with one-way valve)

1 instant cold compress

2 pair of non-latex gloves

2 hydrocortisone ointment packets (approximately 1 gram each)

Scissors

1 roller bandage (3 inches wide)

1 roller bandage (4 inches wide)

5 sterile gauze pads (3 x 3 inches)

5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches)

Oral thermometer (non-mercury/non-glass)

2 triangular bandages

Tweezers

First aid instruction booklet

Image from Marcin Wichar

Halal is an Arabic term which pertains to objects or actions which are permissible to use or take part of according to Islamic Law. The term also refers to food that Muslims can eat. Not many people are familiar with this and Muslim culture in general unless they share the same religion or have experienced life in Muslim countries.

The numbers of Halal conscious consumers are rapidly increasing which is why many of them look for Halal friendly holidays which they can enjoy. Trips like these make them feel at ease, because they do not have to worry about having to deal with situations which are not in line with their faith.  Halal travel destinations are not just exclusive to OIC countries. Some places on the list are not members, but they do have a large population of Muslims, so most of the people are very much aware and respect  Islamic beliefs.

Here is a list of Halal friendly travel destinations all over the world.

Malaysia (OIC Country) is an Asian destination with a variety of cultures, races and cuisines. Muslims will love it here because Halal food is a norm. There is also many things to do and see here, such as sightseeing and shopping.

Indonesia: (OIC country)is another South East Asian country comprised of many islands. It is a tropical paradise with a mix of modern and laid back cultures. There are numerous rainforests, beaches and volcanoes there.

Brunei (OIC country) may be the smallest country on Earth but it they are rich in oil and gas deposits. They have well-preserved rainforest habitats which you can explore or you may visit their coral reefs and shipwrecks too.

Bosnia and Herzegovina (Non OIC country) are considered exotic destinations in Europe which have a large population of Muslim settlers. They have beautiful architecture in Sarajevo, attractive sites in Mostar and breathtaking waterfalls in Martinbrod, including ski destinations in Sutjeska. A trip there would definitely be an adventure.

South Africa (Non OIC country): South Africa offers many awe inspiring natural resources such as waterfalls, canyons, wetlands, mountains and subtropical forests. Taking a safari and going on a trip to their pristine beaches are things you have to do when you visit. Since there are a handful of Muslims here, traveler are sure to find several Halal friendly facilities in the area..

Image from tmechin

This type o trip requires you to be ready with all the items you may need, because the nearest store may be miles away. I often stock up on jello or mixed nuts to give me energy especially during treks. Energy bars are great too. Also bring enough water for yourself and make sure you can carry it. Packing just enough is a must because it may slow you down. Unlike other forms of travel, there aren’t any carts or bellboys to assist you along the way.

Here is a list of items you would need on a camping trip. You do not have to bring everything. Instead, assign communal items to others in order to share the responsibility and the weight too.

Checklist courtesy of: http://www.thecampingsource.com/item/camping_list/id/552/category.aspx

Dress codes are common in most places, but most of us do not expect that it is important while you are at sea. Back in the day, cruise lines were the place to be, so everyone was expected to be at their best, but when the casual trend began most cruise lines have been toning down their dress codes.

Day wear includes T-shirts, polo shirts, shorts, khakis, sundresses for women and sweatshirts or light sweaters for cooler weather. You may expect fancier labeled clothes on luxury lines. Formal wear these days are what we used to consider as semi-formal. In fact, some cruise lines consider sports jackets as dressy. Unless of course it is captain’s cocktail night, for this occasion almost every one prefers to dress up.

When you say dress up, imagine what you would wear for a nice wedding. Men are encouraged to wear dark suits or tuxedos, while women are expected to wear, cocktail dresses, sequined gowns and other fancy attire. For women who dislike dressing up, a simple blouse paired with a skirt or pants with suffice. Most women prefer to keep it simple and accessorize instead. Most cruise lines specify their dress code and list their activities in their brochure and their website.

Some cruise lines have tuxedos for rent if you do not feel like taking one with you. As for the women, they often take their own dresses to fit their taste, liking and match their jewelry and other accessories.

Image from ynnil

Women often use various beauty products, from moisturizers to creams, perfumes and the likes. For this reason, it has always been a challenge to pack for trips. Deciding what to take with you and what to leave at home can be stressful.

All liquids that you take on the plane must be TSA approved, meaning there are certain allowable amounts. For some it must be less than 100ml and the container cannot be larger than 3.4 ounces. Find travel friendly products or those that come in travel sizes.

Make a list of the things you need, from night creams, cleansers, moisturizers, lip treatment and body lotions. One thing I learned when traveling is to take the items you cannot live without, because they may not be available at your destination or they may cost twice as much.

Your destination will determine the products that you will bring –sunscreen for sunny destinations and lotions for dry and cold climate for example. SPF loses its potency over time, so it is best to buy small bottles, so that you have a new one for each trip.

Prepare a re-sealable plastic bag and use it for your toiletries. Throw in some tissue and cleansing wipes too. Opt for products that come in bars or sticks when it comes to soap and deodorants. Nowadays, you can easily get shampoo and lotion bars in specialty shops.

Product samples are also helpful. So do not say no to perfume samples or ask your dermatologist for sample sizes of your skin care regimen. Try to take inexpensive products which you can leave behind to make space for new finds during your trip.

Image from javajoba

Here are some family holiday ideas that are a bit different from the conventional beach holiday.  They are not cheap family holidays  but they are enormous fun.

Stay in a Star Wars cave  in Tunisia

There have been underground houses in Matmata in Tunisia as far back as the 4th century BC. In more modern times the dwellings have featured in the Star Wars films.

Watch the delight on their faces as they see that these caves are where Luke Skywalker lived before set of on his epic adventure to find his father.

Go Camping in Trees in Brittany France

These tents hanging from trees are part of a camp site in Plum’Arbres, Brittany.  This is the most bizarre, family camping you are ever likely to experience. Its not every day you can behave like a bat and sleep hanging from the trees. It might sound weird but with a floor made of catamaran netting, and customised mattresses, these tents offer a very comfortable night’s sleep as you sway gently in the breeze.

Stay in a UFO hotel in a Swedish Forest

Imagine walking through a forest and stumbling across a UFO. Its sounds like something out of Steven Spielberg’s Close Encounters Of The Third Kind, but for you and your children it could really happen and what’s more you could actually spend a night on board the extra-terrestrial ship.

That’s because this bizare 50s-style flying saucer situated near the town of Harads, Sweden, is actually a hotel.

It is spread out over two storeys with room for four would-be space travellers.

Peter Ward is a new dad and contributes parenting advice for fathers to a number of different sites. 

If you are traveling this holiday season, expect that airport, bus lines and in some countries even boats are fully booked. Everyone wants to spend this time of the year with their loved ones, while others simply want to get away and unwind.

In this light, try to book your tickets ahead of time or choose to travel on Christmas day itself if you want to avoid the rush. Some airlines even have discounted fares for this day.

Prepare your itinerary if you are visiting a new place and familiarize yourself with the place you are visiting. Getting lost during the holidays surely won’t be fun.

Make a checklist of things to bring. Try to bring everything you may need from things, to medications and other personal necessities including cellphone chargers and other electronics. Most stores are closed during the holidays, so it is better to have everything at bay when you need them.

Pack you things in clear plastic bags to organize them better. This way it is easier for security to check your things to avoid inconvenience.

Be at the airport or terminal at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure, so that you have enough time to go through the long queues and security checks.

Always bring a scarf and a jacket to keep you warm. Sometimes it rains even in the sunniest places. It is better to be prepared.

Lastly, bring a book or an MP3 player for idle moments or if your departure time is delayed due to unfortunate circumstances. It helps you pass the time and they give you a more patience.

Remember that this season is all about love and caring, but more than that politeness and empathy while travelling will definitely go a long way.

Image from dajobimi

Many of the world’s most beautiful places are located in pristine environments that have long been off limits or underdeveloped for tourism. But as the green revolution has taken hold of just about every aspect of daily life these days, green resorts, parks and other locations have sprouted up to give visitors a once-in-a-lifetime experience that does no harm to the environment.

In fact, green vacations are not only lacking in detrimental effect, they actually help the places where they are located. For example, a trip to the pristine Galapagos Islands is an educational experience. Many of the world’s plants and animals are located there and the learning opportunities are endless. In addition, visitors leave with a greater awareness of the challenges facing many species in our world today.

To help plan your next eco-friendly vacation, we’ve compiled a list of green vacation destinations you should definitely have on your bucket list. Here’s the top 5:
Galapagos Islands: We’ve mentioned this wonderful place already in this story, but it would be a mistake not to place Darwin’s greatest discovery at the top of any list of green vacation destinations.

Dry Tortugas National Park: This group of seven islands lies about 70 miles from Key West and are car-free. Enjoy beautiful coral reefs, sandy beaches, birds and marine life in a package with a reduced carbon footprint.

Alaska’s Alsek River: This region offers the most unique river rafting trip you will ever take. Glide along icy banks in the face of enormous glaciers on a 12-day trip that follows the river for 160 miles before concluding at Dry Bay. Opportunities to view eagles, bears, moose and mountain goats abound.

Kenya: Maybe this one should be up top, but there is no denying a Kenyan safari is an awesome green adventure. Campi ya Kanzai, a conservation camp constructed in partnership with the local Maasai tribe includes 280,000 acres of protected land where visitors can view lions, zebras and the rest of the menagerie for which the great continent is famous.

Himalayas: You don’t have to be a world-class climber to enjoy the homeland of Mt. Everest. Trekking companies offer trips that last a few days to several weeks and may even take you to the base camp of the world’s largest mountain. Stunning views, and friendly locals, all around will provide unforgettable memories.

Almost everyone has a bIog these days. It is like an online journal for bloggers and a virtual series for readers. Great content, social networking and promotions are all factors in a site’s success. One must put in a lot of time and effort to increase hits and website traffic.

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Italy has the best of the best when it comes to mixing old-world charm and modern excitement. With a moderate climate, varied terrain in addition to some of the world’s greatest cultural treasures and deepest history, Italy is hard to beat no matter the focus of your journey.

Along with Greece, Italy (where Rome is located) is accepted as the birthplace of western culture. The streets are full of the trendiest fashions and fabulous buildings with stunning architecture rise from the sidewalks. Masterworks by the greatest artists in history are on display at a number of highly regarded museums and galleries. There are grand castles and palaces to visit. Delicious food and exquisite wines make every meal a romantic experience rivaled by none.

Travelers from budget-driven backpackers to middle class families and the fabulous jet set will find accommodations and attractions to fit every taste. Rome, Florence, Milan, Naples Pisa, Tuscany, Venice – all are Italian cities (with the exception of Tuscany which is a region) and names that conjure enduring images of romantic rendezvous. Who hasn’t ever dreamed of taking a relaxed float through the canals of Venice in a Gondola?

Italy has some of Europe’s most friendly and welcoming inhabitants. For that reason, the country is mostly safe for traveling at a local level – even solo. There is little threat to those travelers who want to mix with locals and experience un-scripted adventures. But for those people who prefer to have an escorted trip, Italy tour vacations offer a visit that is organized to include a pre-set agenda of attractions. The benefit with a touring vacation is the traveler has no logistical responsibilities and is free to sit back and enjoy the trip instead of fretting details and ensuring plans don’t fall apart. Either way, an Italian vacation is a memory maker.

There is no European presence that steals the show in quite the way Italy does with an intoxicating mix of delicious food and drink; incredible art on display, scenic cities, shores and country sides; friendly people; and world-class shopping.

Expect Fun Whether it is a Business Trip or Vacation

The main thing that creates the mindset for a great trip is simply the expectation of fun. You can affirm to yourself that the trip will be fun and exciting and this will get you thinking of all the fun experiences the trip might hold. By the time you leave, you should be full of excitement about the trip and a sense of its possibilities. Don’t get overexcited and unrealistic about the travel experience, just cultivate a feeling of being open to the possibilities of interesting and fun things that may happen.

See the Trip as a Learning Experience

Contrary to what some people might think, learning and fun go together. Every experience is a learning experience actually. Thus the right mindset for a travel experience and many others is that it may teach yo8u something valuable. At the very least you will learn about some foreign or distant destination. You will also meet people from whom you will learn many things. Thinking like this about the trip before you leave will also help to create the best mind set for traveling.

Flexibility

Be willing to have a certain amount of flexibility as regards your travel plans. Perhaps you only planned a hiking or skiing trip, but be open to the idea that you might also want to try some other local activities that you find in the area like antique shops with indigenous art and artifacts, out of the way nightclubs, or local theater.

Get the Planning Done Early

Get the planning for the trip done fairly early so that you are not trying to set things up last minute, creating a sense of anxiety. Take care of things like rentals, your overall itinerary, train and bus routes, and emergency backup plans thoroughly and completely so that you are able to feel relaxed and ready to travel.

Plenty of Sleep Before Departure

A very simple tip is just to be well rested before you leave. This goes along with good planning. If you are up all night making last minute arrangements and are tired as well as harried and nervous before you leave, this is not the ideal mindset. Sure you may be able to sleep on the plane or train, but overall it is best if you leave in a well rested state and ready to make the most of each day of your trip.

Following these simple tips will help put you in the right kind of state for a great trip and are a good exercise in self control and right mood in and of themselves.

Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium; Okinawa, Japan

The Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium opened in November of 2002 in Motobu, Okinawa in Japan. The aquarium features 77 exhibition tanks, with the largest being the Kuroshio Sea Tank. At the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, visitors can view multiple whale sharks, more than 800 different coral colonies and the first-ever successful in-captivity bred manta ray.

John G. Shedd Aquarium; Chicago, Illinois

The Shedd Aquarium, as it is informally known, opened before it even housed any fish back in 1929. Fish began arriving in 1930 and now houses specimens from all over the world including regions of the Pacific and Australian area as well as specimens from the Amazon River and the Great Lakes. The Aquarium boasts alternative marine life outside of fish including otters and penguins in addition to popular favorites including an octopus, sea turtle, frogfishes, sharks, sea jellies, rays and more.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo; Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Located inside the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is the largest suspended aquarium in the world. It currently houses more than 33,000 animals, accounting for more than 140 species and including more than 400 sharks and rays. It also houses the world’s largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks, making a great choice for the shark enthusiast.

Aquarium of Western Australia; Perth, Australia

Formerly known as Underwater World, Perth, this hotel opened in 1988 but later changed its name in 2001. This particular aquarium includes exhibits that detail the life found in the waters surrounding the island continent. Currently, the Aquarium of Western Australia houses more than 40 exhibits, and despite being only the 10th largest aquarium in the world, it currently houses one of the largest living coral reef exhibits.

The Oceanogràfic of the City of Arts and Sciences

Located in Valencia, Spain, the Oceanogràfic of the City of Arts and Sciences houses more than 45,000 animals. These animals account for approximately 500 different species including popular favorites such as walruses, sea lions, sawfish, dolphins, jellyfish, starfish, various sharks, seals and sea urchins. “L’Oceanogràfic” as it is informally known, prides itself on preserving nature and aims to spread the message of conservation and respect for sea creatures and the environment in which they live.

Aquariums are a great choice for traveling families. Chances are, no matter where in the world a person goes, there is a great aquarium nearby. Though the vast majority of aquariums display popular favorites, such as sharks, there are several that feature more unique, lesser-known species and people may be surprised at what is really lurking below the watery depths of the world.

Start with the Ship’s Rules

There are a number of rules enforced by cruise lines, which makes it easier for parents to know where to start. For example, some cruise lines may insist that people under the age of 18 return to their cabins by midnight, unless accompanied by an adult. Reading the rules ahead of time can give you an your family a better understanding of what is and is not accepted on the ship.

Set a Curfew

While you may be a bit more lenient with curfew while on vacation, a curfew should still be in place. If the ship doesn’t have curfew hours listed, you may want to set a time that you know how you will still be awake. This ensures that the teen comes back to the room at the expected time. Explain to them that cruises aren’t just a place for families and that there are criminals on board who may try something when there are fewer people around.

Reinforce Common Sense Rules

There are rules that teens have had to follow since they were small children, but these rules are often forgotten while on vacation. You need to explain that pushing, running, shouting in hallways and other behavior will not be accepted. You also need to explain that doing stupid moves on the deck of the ship will result in strict punishments. The teens may claim you’re being unreasonable, but better to be unreasonable than to have a child fall overboard.

Forbid Underage Activities

There are foreign cruise lines that will serve alcohol to underage children. It is imperative that you set rules for your teen forbidding she drinks. Explain that if the rule is broken, she will spend the rest of the trip in the cabin. There should be no exceptions to this rule. A teen getting drunk on a cruise can lead to many other troubles that parents do not want to face, especially while on vacation.

A cruise should be a time of relaxation and setting rules for your teens helps ensure that stress will not become a factor. Not only are these rules necessary to prevent your teens from causing trouble, but they are necessary to ensure their safety.

Before the Trip

When packing for the trip, the dog owner needs to remember to also pack for their dog. Be sure to bring along a copy of all up-to-date vaccinations, a spay or neuter certificate, copy of the dog’s license and any other paperwork that may be necessary in an emergency. Then, rather than packing it away into a suitcase, place it into the glovebox where it is easily accessible. Just remember to return the paperwork to its rightful place upon arriving home after the trip.

It should also go without saying that the owner should remember a bed, food, water, bowls and other necessities for their dog.

Drain the Dog’s Energy

Travel is full of new sights, smells and sounds. Therefore, draining a dog’s energy beforehand can help reduce them from becoming overstimulated. A well-exercised dog is a well behaved dog, especially during a long car ride. Consider playing a hardy game of fetch or going for a run or long walk to help extinguish some of that energy.

Natural Body Clock

Like humans, dogs sleep during the night and are active during the day: meaning they are diurnal. Consider starting the car ride during the evening and driving through the night, when they are normally asleep. This can help make the entire trip more manageable, especially if the dog is sleeping through much of the ride naturally.

Provide Entertainment

Some dogs are insatiable, no matter what tactics the owner tries. In these instances, the dog may benefit from a bone or something else to occupy their time. New bones, or faux bones that are stuffed with treats, can help occupy their time and keep them out of the owner’s hair while driving.

Safety First

Though wearing out the dog before traveling or providing entertainment can help reduce howling or crying during a long drive, it’s also important for the owner to secure their dog for safety reasons. If a crate is not an option, such as with a large dog and a small vehicle, consider investing in a safety belt that will hold the dog in place in the event of an accident. During a long car ride, it is safer to have the dog restrained than to have the dog jumping around the vehicle, getting in the owner’s face or causing a ruckus in some other way.

Traveling with a dog can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Carrying along the appropriate paperwork can reduce stress in an emergency far away from home. Wearing the dog out beforehand can also help make the trip itself less stressful. In short, preparation is key for a happy car ride for both owner and canine.

Acropolis. This World Heritage Site is the most popular tourist destination in Athens. Nestled high on a hill in the center of the city is this fascinating world of architecture and relics from Greece’s Golden Age. Bring your walking shoes because you can easily spend all day traversing the old, cobblestone streets and studying the wide array of surrounding sites that will take you back to ancient times.

Parthenon. There’s no doubt you’ve seen this classical, white marble-columned masterpiece of architecture in many history books and on postcards, but there is no substitute for walking through it up close and personal. Visit this temple of Athena in the evening, when the sun is beginning to set, for a spiritual experience of mythical proportions.

Agora. These ancient ruins are located right in the heart of Athens, and were once the bustling marketplace and central hub of commerce, culture and politics of Greece.

Filopappos Hill. A walk through this breathtaking park will reveal views of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, as well as southern Athens straight through to the seacoast, that you won’t soon forget. It is quite an upward hike, so wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared to stop along the way to tour ancient ruins off the beaten path.

The Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. This is not only a favorite destination for tourists, but also a favorite sunset viewing location for the locals. Poseidon’s impressive temple ruins is breathtaking in itself, but the view over the Aegean Sea makes this site easily one of the most awe-inspiring places you will find in all of Athens. Bring a picnic dinner and watch the sun go down, or eat at the restaurant on site. Either way, plan on staying a while and taking a lot of pictures.

There is no place in the world quite like Athens, Greece, and a trip to Athens will inevitably provide images and memories that will stay with you for life. Make it a point to visit these spectacular sites while in Athens, and enjoy a vacation like no other.

Find a radio. Your radio can be your best friend, and possibly your only connection to the rest of the world, when a disaster strikes. In the case of a tsunami, weather and emergency reports should be able to guide you further to safety, at the most, and provide a bit of comfort, at the very least.

Get to higher ground. Move inland as quickly as you can, and seek out shelter in high-terrain areas that are bound to get less flooding than the lower-lying areas. Of course, whatever you do, do not go to the beach to watch a tsunami in action, even if you seem to be at a safe enough distance. Tsunamis move at rapid speed, and can overtake you before you even know what happened. A good rule of thumb is this: if there is water, go in the opposite direction, and immediately.

Follow directions. If you happen to be in a public venue when a tsunami hits, then your best bet is to listen to the personnel directives as they are being given, then do your best to follow the safety instructions that are given to you.

Move from smaller to larger. If you are in a private house, then it is likely that the structure is low-lying and not reinforced for the impact of a tsunami. Leave houses and smaller buildings immediately, and find the nearest high-rise, concrete hotel to take shelter in. Once in the hotel, find your way to the top floor and stay there until conditions improve.

There are some very simple things you can do while on vacation to protect yourself in the case of a tsunami. Keep these things in mind – but only in the back of your mind – so that you can spend your vacation doing what you should be doing: relaxing and enjoying your time.

About the Author:

Delbert Pounds loves travel and is a huge advocate of preparedness. When he’s not traveling, he can be found helping others to look for nursing employment positions around the country.

Vaccinations. It is very important that you get the appropriate vaccinations before you leave for Sri Lanka. Be sure you are up to date with your polio, tetanus, hepatitis A & B, typhus, and yellow fever vaccinations. As well, bring some malaria pills with you, especially if you are traveling during the rainy season (when mosquitoes are most abundant).

Packing. The average temperature in Sri Lanka is a very hot 24 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the Sri Lanka atmosphere is extremely humid. Pack light-weight clothing in breathable fabrics so that you don’t get overwhelmed (or overtaken) by the weight of the Sri Lanka air. Also, be sure to pack insect repellant, as Sri Lanka has quite the mosquito population, and these mosquitoes transmit the very common “Dengue Fever.”

Mobile phones. Leave your phone at home. Your cheapest option (as compared to bringing your mobile phone and getting roaming charges) is to purchase a mobile phone while in Sri Lanka. Mobile phones are relatively inexpensive in Sri Lanka, and you can get a pay-as-you-go plan with any of Sri Lanka’s four major providers – Dialog, Mobitel, CellTel, and Hutchison Telcom – to use just while on your vacation. Additionally, minute recharge cards are available at any of the island’s convenience stores, making the pay-as-you-go plan a major traveling convenience.

Disembarkation form. Sri Lanka has only one airport, and it is often packed. Fill out your disembarkation form before you land in Sri Lanka so that you can bypass the crowds and head straight to the Immigration officers who will clear you for entry into your destination land.

Congratulations on your decision to visit one of the most beautiful places in the world. Now make sure you get the most out of your Sri Lanka vacation by taking the proper preparatory measures. Happy travels!

About the Author: Marvin Labbee loves to travel to exotic places. His position as a freelancer makes it easy for him to pick up and go wherever he wants. He enjoys using Metrofax online faxing and other online services to reduce his need to find office supply stores and hotspots while traveling.

Anse Source d’Argent – Seychelles

East of Africa and northeast of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean amongst a cluster of one-hundred and fifteen islands sits the country of Seychelles. One of its crown jewels is Anse source d’Argent on the island of La Digue, a beach that some describe as surreal. With the entire population weighing in at about eighty-nine thousand, there is no such thing as crowds. Is definitely a paradise with calm, pink sand beaches surrounded by worn boulders and tropical vegetation. You will not find large resorts here, just a place to let your blues float away.

Poipu Beach – Hawaii

You have probably seen portions of Poipu Beach in films such as Jurassic Park. It is nestled on the least developed island of Kauai along its south coast. Another secluded getaway, Poipu offers a colorful snorkeling experience as well as surfing along its outermost edges.

Aruba – Caribbean

If gambling, golfing, and tanning are more your speed head over to the island of Aruba to forget all about that holiday pressure cooker. Here it rains about fifteen inches per year and maintains a breezy eighty-two degrees. On its western and southern coasts, which are protected from strong ocean currents, it offers some of the whitest, cleanest beaches in the world. Treat yourself to the quaint Tamarijin Resort or the energetic high rise Occidental Grand.

Coronado Beach – California

In Spanish it means “the crowned one” and it surely lives up to its title. Located in Silver Strand, Crown City just over the bridge near San Diego Bay, this is a beach amongst a quaint town of tree-lined, optional car streets where most locals walk or bike where they need to go. Starting in December whale watching is a favorite past time as you stroll or nap on one of the top ten beaches in the world. Stay at the Victorian Hotel Del Coronado, a local gem since 1888.

Phi Phi Islands – Thailand

These two islands, Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Leh, are tucked away amongst sharp-toothed cliffs and limestone ledges. Forget about luxury hotels, here you stay in a modest yet very comfortable bamboo hut. Feast on local seafood that can be prepared ‘phet’ or so spicy your taste buds will dance making you forget all about those holiday blues.

These five vacation spots are perfect to take your mind away from mad holiday shopping and even madder obligatory holiday parties.

Porfiro Zaner loves traveling the world. He’s also into the stock market and oil diversity and can often be found checking for Shale Marcellus news and updates.

Photo Courtesy Of: klyphord

Packing light is always the way to go when traveling, but it is important to make sure you have the bare necessities. I get frustrated whenever I forget something important and end up having to buy it when I get to my destination. It is usually ridiculously expensive or something you wouldn’t buy, which is why it is important to plan ahead and make a checklist of things you may need during the trip. The first thing about planning is finalizing your destination since a travel kit to Central America is totally different from a travel kit for colder weather in Europe. Here is a basic list that would be helpful wherever you go. Feel free to add more items and customize it as you wish.

Personal toiletries in small amounts are essential especially for the first few days of your trip when you are still trying to get the feel of the place especially if you have sensitive skin or use special products which may not be readily available. As much as possible, place them in a toiletry bag or a large zip-lock, so that it is easier to pack.

Always bring a small towel. Most hotels have one, but you never know when you need it. Micro-fiber towels absorb moisture and dry easily. They are also lightweight.

A first aid kit is also a must. Make sure it has the basic medicine, antiseptic, band aids and gauze, cotton, tweezers. You can also add in a nail clipper which always comes in handy.

You never know when you will have wardrobe malfunctions, so keep a sewing kit at bay; build your own or purchase one. Keep this in your bag for better accessibility.

Bring a money belt, so that you can keep your passport, money and bank cards close to you. You wouldn’t want to go through the nightmare of being robbed. In case you do, you only lose spare change.

Take a camera to document your trip. Ensure that you have a charger or spare batteries for it. Check its voltage to see if it is compatible with power outlets. Bring an adapter if necessary.

Maps or guidebooks also help especially if you are not familiar with the area. It is better to read about the place you plan to visit ahead of time, so that it is easier to map out your itinerary and note places, restaurants or establishments you would like to visit.

Lastly, take a pair of sunglasses. There will always be sun during day trips despite the weather conditions.