Caravans getting more popular

After caravans made history centuries ago, became associated with the hippy lifestyle. Nowadays the caravan is having a surprising recovery.

Knights used the caravans in Crusades and the people who afforded to have one used it as tool for moving around. The conquest of Wild West is probably the one who made the caravans famous. What would it have been like to cross the Rocky Mountains without the covered wagons? The alternative was a cold draughty ride on a horse or tramping along in the mud. Only a hundred years ago you could see brightly painted horse-pulled Romany caravans on our roads.

But what about now, when you have roads and maps and so many means of getting where you want? What would be now the role of caravans? You can find the answer in the need of freedom people are still having.

In the last century motor-car ownership took off but the same thing happened to caravans and soon drivers found themselves queuing behind lines of caravans on the way to the coast. For decades the typical image of motor-caravanners was probably that of a hippy family in an old VW. Nowadays the image of caravans is so much improved and in many cases caravan became a luxury home-from-home with a price to match.

By the time more and more people that had money to spend became interested in having their own home from home that could give them the freedom to travel all over the place in good condition, the static caravan took off. These uncool and static caravans located by the sea or by the wild forests are now history.

Lately caravanning became one of the country's most popular holidays. Celebrities enjoy this way of traveling or more accurate this way of living. Actresses like Helen Mirren and Tracy Shaw, singers like Mark Owen, Chris Evans and even Sir Jimmy Saville are owners and satisfied users of caravans. And now we can talk about fancy, luxury and styled caravans.

The classic old hand built caravans, such as the Stirling and the Carlight, used to be expensive - the top of the market. Back in the fifties, these caravans were bought and run by owners of the Armstrong Siddeley, Lagonda and Rover cars. The owners thought nothing about embarking on overseas trips with them of thousands of miles.

Preparing luggage for your trip

Luggage is a vital part of any trip, everything you need will be inside. Check your luggage prior to your trip and make sure all parts are in order and it has no rips or tears. The last thing you need is a zipper that comes apart at the airport while the handlers are moving your luggage.

When buying luggage choose quality bags that are built well and will last. But avoid the fancy luggage as this can be a target for thiefs. Fancy gold latches, big brand names and classy leather finishes can all be triggers for a thief. Stick with the classic look over the showy styles that will attract a thief.

Tagging your suitcase with a bright and distinctive marker will make the bag easier to spot on the carousel and prevents another traveler from mistakenly taking your bag. This will also make it easier for baggage handlers to find you bag should it become lost or needs to be removed from the plane. Thieves are also less likely to take a bag as they can be spotted much easier.

When packing your suitcase make sure you know the weight allowances allowed by the airline and weigh your bags before leaving. If your bag is overweight consider using two smaller bags, this is more of a hassle, but will save you on surcharges for the overweight bag. Check with your airline to determine the weight allowances that apply to you. You also have the option of using services that will pick up and deliver your baggage to your destination.

Keep proper identification in your luggage in case they become lost, this way you can be found. Placing a copy of your itinerary in each piece of luggage will assist the airline in finding you if your luggage is in fact lost. Use caution on how much personal information is left in the bags, to much information exposes you to identity theft.

Being prepared for security will make your screening process with the TSA much more pleasant. Check the TSA website for banned and limited items such as liquids and gels. They also have rules in place on how such items should be packed. Always use clear plastic bags inside your luggage as the screener can easily see inside. Locking your bags is also highly recommended and you should consider TSA approved locks. If your checked baggage is picked for screening the TSA will cut your lock unless you are using an approved lock, in which case they have a special tool to unlock it and re-lock it when finished.

Take a carry on with any essentials you will need in case your main luggage is lost or delayed. This is especially important if you will be travelling with children. Again check with the TSA website for carry on bags. The rules are a little different, some things are allowed to be checked but are not allowed in your carry on baggage.

Planning ahead will make your travel experience much more pleasant and enjoyable.

The importance of travel insurance

You've finally saved to go on that dream holiday you have been planning. Now you're wondering if you should buy travel insurance. Do I need to go to the extra expense? All I can lose is my luggage, right?

Guess again! Anything can go wrong while you're traveling, and I strongly favor buying a policy.

Most travel insurance policies are designed for a variety of travel needs but, I emphatically advise reading the fine print of any policy you purchase regarding any deductibles and health situations. You many find your policy won't cover preexisting conditions that may cause a problem, or that the medical coverage is only for an injury or an illness -- not both. For emergency aid, travel insurance polices are generally dependable and affordable, but there's still a myriad of gaps in the coverage provided.

You can find polices designed for any type of trip you may be planning, such as a single trip for hunting, backpacking, cruises, house rentals, and a host of others. But, the specific types and amounts of coverage you get depend on the policy you choose. it is important to remember that you will only be covered for what is specifically stated in your policy and for nothing else.

Most policies cover trip cancellation, lost baggage, medical, dental, and accidental death coverage. Other policies include emergency evacuation, 24 hour travel assistance, and trip or baggage delay. You may even find policies that include options for collision or damage to rented cars and business conflicts. there's many options that can be covered, but you will have to ask.

The premiums for the policies are generally 5% to 7% the cost of your trip, but fees will vary depending on the your medical history and passengers ages. Many companies offer policies that will include coverage for children at no extra charge.

it is best not to buy your travel insurance from your tour operator. i have listed a few reasons why it may be better to purchase through an insurance company separately.

Most travel insurance policies offered by the operator are less flexible to your individual needs;

Provide a lower amount of coverage;

May only cover a portion of the trip;

Your coverage may be secondary and the insurance will only pay for what you own private health or homeowner's insurance does not cover;

May duplicate coverage you already have;

In the event the tour operator liquidates and goes belly up, you would lose not only your trip, but also your premium.

Many travel agents are not fully knowledgeable when it comes to understanding the details of various travel insurance policies and may overlook something that could be important to you or your relatives and few offer suggestions. Buying travel insurance may be less expensive purchasing through your tour operator or cruise line, but for the reasons listed above, you should check around.

If you do choose to buy your policy from your tour operator, be sure to use a credit card. Depending on the policy of the credit card issuer, you may be provided with protection against potential default of the operator.

When buying your policy from an insurance company:

Always get quotes from several companies

Ask if the plan is pre-packaged or if you can custom design your own

Can you waive the preexisting condition exclusion

Ask if you're covered for cancellation due to a terrorist incident. Don't count of the company to provide information

Ask any query you can dream up and

Do ask for suggestions

All inclusive timeshare resorts

How would you like to go on a timeshare vacation and leave your wallet behind? This is surely a recipe for disaster—unless you vacation at an all inclusive resort. These ever-popular timeshare resorts charge you one fee for everything from your room to your meals. You can vacation like the elite without ever having to worry about paying a check because there are none! Different packages include beverages and activities, so you can sip frosty drinks by the pool or play golf without ever seeing a bill.

There are several all inclusive timeshares waiting for you to enjoy in exotic places such as Mexico and the Dominican Republic. The beautiful Royal Sunset in exquisite Cancun, Mexico is an excellent choice for anyone interested in some wallet-free fun and sun. The Dominican Republic’s Talanquera Vacation Club in Juan Dolio is nearby the historic Santa Domingo and features crystal blue water and soft sand beaches. Both of these timeshare resorts are completely all-inclusive and have several packages with different levels of inclusion. If you would rather head to the hills instead of the beach, Austria’s LTH Resort at Alpine & Golfhotel Interstar. Set among the breathtaking Salzburg mountains, this all inclusive resort is perfect for the outdoor enthusiasts. Whether your passion is skiing, tennis, golf, mountain-biking, hiking, or climbing, this resort is an excellent destination. All inclusive timeshare resorts have different packages depending on the options in which you are most interested. Additionally, prices of the timeshare may vary depending on the season. When you decide to invest in an all inclusive timeshare, be sure to ask exactly what is covered. One timeshare resort may offer only one inclusion package and others may have different options for inclusions from which to choose .

There are all inclusive timeshare resorts located in many parts of the world, from Egypt to Brazil. Just as with traditional timeshares, knowing all the details before you purchase will save you a great deal of money and grief. If possible, you may wish to visit a property to become familiar with the area and the resort’s features. As is the case with all timeshares, you would still have the option to exchange your all inclusive timeshare which would allow you to vacation at new properties each time.

Although purchasing an all-inclusive timeshare may be more expensive upfront than a traditional resort timeshare, you may save money in the end. By taking an all inclusive vacation, you know exactly how much you are spending, whereas traditional vacations can quickly add up when meals, drinks, and activities are added to the bill. If you have ever returned home after a fabulous stay at a traditional timeshare only to be shocked by the pricey bill you racked up, then an all inclusive timeshare resort may be just the right option for you.

Casinos ou culture singapour attire les touristes

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Depuis que Singapour a rйduit ses exportations de composants йlectroniques, cette derniиre cherche aujourd'hui a dйvelopper son activitй touristique pour compenser. Pour cela Singapour mise sur ses casinos et jeux vidйo importйs.
Selon le co-fondateur de Lonely Planet Guides, si Disneyland a rйussi travers le monde а s'imposer et а rйunir chaque jour des millions de touristes, la Chine peut espйrer alors prospйrer grвce а ses casinos.

Toutefois, Singapour dispose d'un important handicape: elle n'a pas de Angkor Wat ou de Taj Mahal comme investisseur. Depuis longtemps, cette ville est surtout rйputйe pour ses innombrables centre commerciaux et ses promotions annuelles "Singapore sales".

Vis-а-vis des йtrangers, Singapour dispose d'une image peu flatteuse en matiиre politique. En effet, elle est surtout connue pour ses passeurs de drogue, son taux important de vandalisme, ses coups d'йtat politiques et son interdiction de vendre des chewing gum. Culturellement parlant, son dйveloppement a surtout йtй refreiner par les multiples restrictions dont notamment la libertй d'expression et la censure de films et piиces de thйвtre.

Toutefois, avec la nouvelle gйnйration de chinois et l'influence des indiens et autres asiatiques qui commencent а voyager partout а travers le monde, Singapour a commencй а travailler sur le projet de nouvelles attractions, incluant deux nouveaux casinos ou encore un parc sur le thиme du Studio Universal, et un йquivalent des bateaux mouches franзais, mкme si aucun de ces projets n'est particuliиrement singapourien.

Ainsi, Singapour se "dйmocratise" et se modernise avec l'ouverture de clubs et de cinй-clubs oщ l'on peut voir le film new zйlandais Lord of the Rings. De plus, la fameuse sociйtй de location de films Blockbuster a ouvert ses portes et l'on y trouve а Singapour nombre de films indiens de Bollywood, afin d'attirer d'avantage de touristes indiens.

Ce mкme mois, quelques jours auparavant, Singapour a autorisй les courses automobiles йquivalentes aux cйlиbres Formule 1, espйrant ainsi attirer les touristes de l'autre continent. Citigroup, le groupe en charge de ce projet, espиre gйnйrer un bйnйfice compris entre $150 et $200 million par an, et montrer par lа mкme que Singapour a changй.

Mettre un circuit de Formule 1 est une idйe brillante mais reste encore loin d'кtre une idйe typiquement nationale, ce qui, au final, risquerait d'enclencher une rйaction inverse а l'objectif tant attendu.

Quant aux casinos, ces derniers devraient ressembler а ceux dйjа prйsents а Macau afin d'obtenir un bйnйfice de prиs de $37 milliards de dollars par an.

Face а ce changement radical, la population locale reste sceptique, voir pessimiste.
Pour eux, la mise en place d'un circuit de Formule 1 n'est qu'un moyen d'obtenir une publicitй gratuite. Concernant les casinos qui devraient voir le jour d'ici quatre ans, ces derniers se sont rйunis pour signer une pйtition allant a l'encontre de ce projet, justifiant les mйfaits des jeux sur les familles et les joueurs compulsifs, en ajoutant par ailleurs que ce concept attirerait d'avantage la population locale que les touristes.

Des intellectuels et reprйsentants de communautйs tels Paul Thйroux , romancier et йcrivain pour l'йquivalent du Guide du Routard, dйplorent cet engouement de la part de la ville. Pour eux, Singapour cherche а devenir une ville moderne et effacer toute son histoire et culture, pour faire place а une ville "que l'on trouve partout" , ce qui reprйsenterait йgalement la fin du quartier de Chinatown, cйlиbre pour ses magasins .

Athens taxi ride extreme sports

Athens is a huge, congested city and the local taxis are your main means of getting around. The average Athens tax ride is inexpensive, just bring your helmet.

Living on the Edge

I had just arrived in Athens with a couple who’ll remain nameless. [He’s now a respectable doctor and married to someone else.] My buddy, “John”, had a Greek friend who lived in town named Stavos. We were going to stay with him and explore Athens before heading to the islands.

Stavos had gone to college with us in California and more or less been raised there. After experiencing the finer points of higher education [fraternity parties, etc.], he and his brother had started a snowboard company in Athens. Who could possibly be buying snowboards in Greece? It turned out Stavos and his brother were selling them throughout Europe, not in Greece.

Anyway, Stavos collected us in a friend’s car and took us to his small studio. We decided to catch some winks and then head out for a night on the town. Thus, we would experience an Athens taxi ride for the first time.

Taxi driving is a competitive sport. I am convinced there is a World Cup of taxi driving and drivers practice on the streets of their location. San Francisco and New York taxi drivers are an elite group, while taking a taxi in France is a good way to see the Eiffel Tower while going the wrong way down a one-way street. In Athens, it was all about speed.

Being an idiot, I yelled out “shotgun” as the taxi pulled to the curb. I should’ve guessed my triumph wasn’t a good thing when Stavos just smiled. In we went and Stavos gave the driver our destination. For the next fifteen minutes, I feared for life itself. Mine and others.

Our driver was apparently convinced he would get a bonus if he beat a certain time. We peeled out at the curb and the race was on. Through the tight, winding streets of Athens we went. As is the nature of chaotic Athens, the roads are packed with cars, buses, people and very brave cyclist. Considering this an obstacle course, a driver whipped through the throngs at over 80 miles per hour. Most of the time was spent in the SLOW lane, where less cars were. I still have nightmares about the faces of cyclist staring at me as we passed them with maybe 5 inches to spare. Frozen pictures of terror. Throw in cars starting to pull out in the road and you have the white knuckle event of the year.

When we finally pulled up to the club, I started breathing again. As I pulled my hand off the handle on the door, I left impressions. Standing outside of the cab, Stavos asked me if I wanted to sit in the front on the way home and started laughing.

It took two drinks to calm my nerves. Come hell or high water, I was walking home.