Hints for Travel in the Desert

October 28, 2008

Nearly of the scenic destination profiles and photos you’ll look on my Scenic Treasures site will be in the Southwestern field of the United States. And just like any other field of the world where weather can be strong, there are things you should know before starting out on your venture. Even if you’re just planning a day trip, these are very important:

1.Deal supplemental water. Both for your vehicle and the people travelling with you. A easy rule of thumb is to have at least 1 gallon per person, plus 1 or more gallons for your car.

2. Carry snacks or dry food items. This should be something that can hold up to a lot of heat. The desert gets extremely hot at certain times of the year, and inside your car it can go well above 150 degrees. So you want food points that can withstand those temperatures without going false.

3.Hold covers, sheets, towels, or other items that can blank out the sun. If your car shifts down, you can hang these on the windows to keep most of the strength out, thus keeping out some of the heat, and maintaining you from becoming hard burned.

4.Put On a hat. This is specially important for people with light painted or thin hair, because your scalp will sunburn badly - very quick.

5.Maintain boxing gloves on hand. This sounds strange, but if your car is parked in the sun for even a short amount of time, everything in it becomes exceedingly hot. Making back in and just touching the steering roll for example, or rough to turn the lighting key, can literally burn your skin. It’s like touch a hot stove.

6.Beware of leather seating. This is critical specially for baby car seats. The leather heat energies up drastically when the sun is straight on it. But even without the sun, leather makes super hot in the desert during the day and it can burn you very bad.

Watching Desert Wildlife A memorable trip through the Southwestern deserts.

Canary Islands: A Premier Winter Holiday Destination For 2009

By: Roger Munns

A leading holiday company recently commissioned a survey to find out where most Europeans would choose to take a winter holiday - and the favourites were the Canary Islands of Tenerife and Lanzarote.



It's welcome news for the islands that saw the number of holidaymakers drop last year.



Speculation as to the reason for the slump in tourism in 2007 ranges in opinion. However, with the drop amounting to two per cent, tourist officials are confident that 2008 and 2009 holds greater promise. The tourism industry, and hotel and tour operators in particular, are gearing up for a busy New Year period. This confidence is reflected by airlines who plan to increase flights into the islands this spring.



January 2008 saw a lot of travel deals being snapped up. Flight costs were slashed and tour packages vamped up to attract the after-Christmas crowd. January tends to be a good month to travel to the Canary Islands. Historically, seat sales are abundant during the first month of the year. The tourism industry cashes in on the after-Christmas blues when people have more time to travel and crave a getaway from the dreary European mainland and British winter weather.



The annual Cruz de Tenerife Carnival is another big draw for early New Year's travelers. Coinciding with Ash Wednesday, this year's carnival began on February 6. The event always kicks off with the crowning of the carnival queen. The gala is celebrated by locals and tourists alike and is covered extensively by the local media. The days-long festival is characterised by brilliant costumes and centuries-old traditions. Parades, dancing, parties and colourful performances make this event popular with tourists.



If you can't make it to Tenerife when the travel agents often offer January and February specials, don't worry. Increased flights to the islands may result in early spring travel deals. Since late summer and early spring are still off-peak travel times, some very good priced packages will still be available. Holidaymakers who aren't bound by particular dates should scan airlines for last-minute seat sales.



So what is it that continues to draw tourists to the Canary Islands of Lanzarote and Tenerife year after year? The number one reason is still the sunshine and balmy weather. Year-round sunshine appeals to European and UK tourists seeking a break from their dreary winter. Even winters are mild in the Canaries, and summer temperatures are perfect for sunning on the beach or taking in a watersport. Warm, but not scorching, weather and constant ocean breezes make the islands a delightful location for a winter holiday.



Of course, there's more to the Canaries than sun and surf. The natural beauty of the islands, ranging from rolling, sand-covered beaches to mountainous ranges dotted with volcanoes, provides endless opportunities for exploration. Outdoor sports like golf, windsurfing, scuba diving, hiking and bicycling bring the visitors close to nature in an activity-oriented manner.



With all that Tenerife and Lanzarote have going for them, they will no doubt remain popular destinations for many years. The latest report on their popularity has tourism officials vamping up plans for 2009 travel season to ensure holidaymakers have a good time, and will want to visit again.

Author Resource:-> Tenerife winter holiday information is on-line at yourtenerife.net



As well as holidays in Tenerife there are airlines who have scheduled and charter cheap flight to Tenerife airfares.

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Canary Islands Bradt''s guide to the Canary Islands reveals a side often disregarded by sunshine-seeking holidaymakers...

Tahiti : A Perfect place to enjoy vacation.

Tahiti Cruise & Vacation is your online travel agent and guide to Tahiti, the largest and arguably one of the most picturesque patches of land in the southern Pacific Ocean. Tahiti Cruise & Vacation offers quality advice and services tailor-made for tourists planning to visit this Polynesian paradise. In our portfolio, you find specials offers and packages, including honeymoon packages, cruises, hotels and resorts, and various adventurous and leisure activities.
Tahiti islands, along with Bora Bora and Moorea, are the most famous islands in the French Polynesian archipelago. In Tahiti, attractions for tourists include exotic hotels, cuisines, events and festivals, and attractive honeymoon destinations.


In French Polynesia, particularly in Bora Bora and Tahiti, activities offered by Tahiti Cruise & Vacation include Aquasafari, Aquabike Adventure, Eleuthera Dive, Golf, Spa, and many more.
Tourists who have been to this tropical isl
and say that Tahiti’s beaches are what make it a paradise of an island — white sand, palm trees, and turquoise water — the perfect cocktail for a vacation away from the humdrum city life. And when you are there, make sure you stay in one of our Tahiti overwater bungalows, known as "fares" in the local language. These huts, featuring traditional-style architecture, almost “float” over the lagoon.
Tahiti resorts attract tourists from across the globe to enjoy the island’s scenic beauty. Tahiti luxury hotels, with delicious cuisines, spas, and much more, make their stay in this island a memory to cherish for ever.
Tahiti Cruise & Vacation helps you choose the most exciting of the Tahiti holidays. We offer Tahiti packages, especially Tahiti honeymoon packages, with different affordable price options.
I am sure Tahiti trip will be the most memorable thing in your life. So Travel Tahiti and enjoy.




About the Author
For more information you can visit: Tahiti Cruise & Vacation's Web site. Tahiti Cruise & Vacation's Web site offers information on Tahiti & Bora Bora hotels ,Tahiti beach, Tahiti vacation packages , Tahiti cruises, Tahiti Honeymoon

Tahiti & French Polynesia Guide, 4th Ed. Open Road''s best-selling travel guide is fully updated with new hotels, restaurants, cruises and activities! Beautiful French Polynesia is presented by long-time resident and travel writer Jan ...

I'm going to Africa!

You may have already heard that I am traveling to Tanzania to volunteer at an orphanage. Going to Africa has been a life-long dream and I can hardly believe that is finally coming true. I fly on November 3rd and I will be gone until the end of January. I still have lots to do before I go - learn some Swahili, pack up my house, and raise money for the kids.

Watoto Wa Africa is an orphanage run by a local Tanzanian couple just outside the city of Mwanza on Lake Victoria. There are 45 kids between the ages of 1 and 17 who have lost their parents to HIV/AIDS and are now living at the orphanage. They do have electricity but no running water. There is no stable source of income and they rely on volunteers and donations to get by. To learn more, go to www.watotowaafrica.com or check out Facebook group “Watoto Wa Africa” to see some great photos of the kids.

While I’m away…
I will be living in a rented house with 1-2 other volunteers just down the road from the orphanage. While there I plan to help out wherever needed. In the early mornings and late afternoon I will be tutoring the kids in English and Math. The rest of the day will be spent helping build a new home for the kids (and the cows and chickens) and hopefully starting a veggie garden.

How can you help?
With the help of my friends and family, I hope to raise $2000 before I leave on November 3rd. I am organizing a staff lunch party at my work, a 50/50 draw, and we have a “swear jar” that is getting full after only 2 days (ask me more about the swear jar if you think you could use one at your workplace).

If you can help out, a donation of $25 would be greatly appreciated.

How will your money be used?
Any donations you send to me will be directly spent on supplies for the kids at the orphanage. Watoto Wa Africa received a donation to build a home for the kids (they are currently renting a 4 bedroom house) but they still need to purchase mosquito nets, new mattresses and materials to build furniture. This is in addition to the basic necessities like medical supplies, food and clothing.

Volunteers are encouraged to raise money for specific projects that they would like to work on during their stay. I am excited to contribute to the creation of a garden project to ensure a constant source of food. I would also like to purchase/build playground equipment for the kids and to take them on a few excursions.

To donate money, you can:
Mail a cheque in my name to 1906 Alma St., Vancouver, BC V6R 3P7. I will deposit the funds in my personal account and withdraw them in local currency when I arrive.
Deposit to my Vancity bank account online (you must be a Vancity member) or go to any Vancity branch to make a deposit in person. Please email me and I will forward my account information.
If you would prefer to donate online and receive a tax receipt, go to www.canadahelps.org and choose the charity Hope Without Borders. A portion of your donation will be retained by CanadaHelps.org to cover administrative costs. Hope Without Borders is a Canadian charity that sends money directly to Watoto Wa as well as a women’s shelter in Lebanon. You can indicate in the message that you would like the funds to go to Watoto Wa. You can also choose to send a message notifying me that you have made a donation.

If you are depositing to my bank account online or in person please let me know when you have donated so I can keep track of funds raised.

I will be updating a travel blog as often as possible to keep you updated. You can see my profile at http://www.travelpod.com/members/andreainafrica where I will be uploading photos and writing a diary of my experiences.

Thank you to everyone for your support and generosity!

All the best,
Andrea

Missionary Travels In South Africa: Including A Sketch Of Sixteen Years'' Residence In The Interior Of Africa, Volume I Missionary Travels In South Africa: Including A Sketch Of Sixteen Years'' Residence In The Interior Of Africa, Volume I

Freeport Bahamas – For a Variety of Fun-Filled Activities

The scenic beauty of Bahamas is simply stunning. Many people consider Bahamas as the best vacation destination in the world. However, when you visit Bahamas, don’t forget to visit Freeport, a city situated on the Grand Bahama Island. It is quite interesting to know that Freeport Bahamas is a free trade zone as businesses that operate in the area do not have to pay any taxes. Hence, Freeport is now known to be one of the most famous tourist destinations of Bahamas. An array of popular attractions and an amazing casino situated here draws many tourists to this small city. From beach combing, gambling to golf combing, there is a lot that Freeport Bahamas has to offer. The Royal Oasis Casino adds charm to the sizzling nightlife of the place. The casino timings are 10am – 2am everyday and you need not necessarily be staying at the adjoining hotel to get a free entrance at the casino. This is one of the biggest Freeport attractions and is the largest Bahamas casino. You may try out some day sailing to add fun to your Freeport Bahamas trip. This includes a lot many varieties of activities such as trips for group fishing, out island day trips and private charted boats. You may arrange for your day sailing in free port beforehand by booking for a Freeport Bahamas holiday package.

Another option is to book a day or two prior to your day sailing trip, once you have already reached Bahamas. Similarly, there are also trips available for snorkeling and scuba diving. Trips can also be arranged for day cruise or dinner cruise to admire the beautiful sites around and the breath-taking views of the ocean. Golf lovers can go for a golf package for Freeport Bahamas.

After all, Grand Bahama Island is a paradise for all golf lovers with a few very difficult courses of the country situated here next to some lavishing resorts. This golfing package usually includes airfare, green fees and hotel. You may also go for an all-inclusive package. You can search over the Internet to find a suitable golf package, snorkeling package and other such vocational packages. Travel websites often offer such packages at very affordable rates. Travel agent is also an option that you may opt for. Though Lucaya city is situated more closely to the beach than Freeport, almost all the hotels that are situated in the Freeport Bahamas provide a complimentary shuttle service for its guests from the beach. Beachside is a common attraction among the guests, as one can either dine or shop here and have a good time with loved ones.

Also, it is important to note that, no matter if you have purchased anything is Freeport or not, it is mandatory for everyone to pay a departure tax of $5 while going out from the country. Hence, it is advisable to have some in hand cash to pay this departure tax. SO, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to fly. Enjoy your tip to Freeport Bahamas.

About the author:
Suzane Gray has been offering Bahama travel and vacation packages advice for quite some time.To find cheap Bahamas vacation, Bahamas golf vacation, Bahamas vacation package, Freeport Bahamas and Grand Bahamas Island that best suits your needs visit www.gobahama.com Article Source: http://www.Free-Articles-Zone.com

The Best of Both Worlds in Vancouver, British Columbia

Are you torn between taking a luxurious, pampered holiday versus an outdoor, sporty vacation? If you and your holiday partner can't agree (or even if you're not sure yourself) there's no need to compromise when you visit the city of Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada. An Urban Oasis - Stanley Park Vancouver is one of the few cities (including New York with the famous Central Park) that can boast a sizable park as one of its features. Stanley Park is 1000 acres and is one of the largest urban parks in North America. Vancouver is a coastal city with plenty of walking and biking trails. There's something for everyone, whether you enjoy an easy pace viewing the waters of the Burrard Inlet along the paved sea wall or take on the wooded trails of Stanley Park where you'll find impressive untouched forest as well as beautifully manicured gardens on your hiking or biking adventure. Art Galleries, Shopping and More...

Looking to enjoy some shopping? Vancouver has plenty of interesting areas to shop. For the dedicated shopper a visit to Robson Street will provide designer boutiques as well as trendy coffee shops and restaurants, all with great people watching spots to take a break.

For those who are looking for something a little different than the usual step into Vancouver's Chinatown. You'll find beautiful imported items along with delicious Chinese cuisine along the streets with the red streetlamps and brightly colored signs.

Granville Island, which is also the home to the Emily Carr Institute of Art, is a busy market along the water. Find fresh fruit, flowers and a wide variety of ethnic foods to enjoy. Browse the art and small specialty shops where you're sure to find that special something to bring home for yourself or as a gift.

The Vancouver Art Gallery in the heart of the city also has something for the art enthusiast to enjoy, including presentations of the famous works of Vancouver's Emily Carr. Science World, Vancouver Aquarium - big draws for Young or Old.

Bringing the kids? The mirrored dome with lights will surely catch their attention but what's inside this fascinating structure will impress them (and you) even more! Interactive and astounding you'll be entertained and educated in this attraction originally built for Expo 86.

For a slower pace try the Vancouver Aquarium. Watch the Beluga show or visit the tropics for a memorable visit. World Class Resorts, Hotels and Golf Courses Not far from Vancouver is the world renowned Whistler Village Resort. Ideal for a luxury skiing vacation, it is also a popular summer destination with biking trails, golfing, white water rafting, ziplining and more for the truly adventurous. Camping and RV parks are never far away or you can choose to stay in one of the highly rated hotels for a real pampered treat!
Vancouver is a culturally diverse city with many languages and ethnic attractions. Although well known for rain, Vancouver's mild climate is ideal for the many gardens and parks that make up the city. Full of complimentary opposites, Vancouver is a harmonious blend for enjoying the outdoors and city life in one place.

About the Author
Find more information about luxury travel and fractional ownership information at:http://www.fractional-luxury.comFractional ownership makes luxury more affordable!

African Safari - Tips and Guidelines on Money Matters and Tipping

After booking and confirming your travel arrangements, you may realize that you still need some more information even as you prepare for the trip to Africa. Some of the questions that you will have, relate to money - for example, the value of your home-country money in relation to local destination currency. You will probably need to know how much would be enough to cater for your needs. You will certainly need to know in what form you need to carry the money - whether cash, credit card or in form of checks.

The guideline below, although apt for travelers to East Africa, may apply to most other African destinations. Ultimately, the most reliable and current advise should come from your chosen African Safari Outfitter.

How To carry your money

Cash and travellers' checks each have advantage. Obviously cash is more readily exchanged and accepted and command a better exchange rate in East Africa. Travellers' checks on the other hand, are replaceable in case of lose. You should carry a combination. Decide what proportion of each to carry, according to your own taste or convenience against the risks that may arise. Try for a diversity of denominations such that you have a mix of smaller, medium and a few or the larger denominations of your home country currency.

You can change money at slightly less than standard bank rates in most hotels. Traveller's checks cannot be changed at hotels and lodges; it can only be done at banks and financial institutions.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards (and debit cards with Visa or Master Card logos) offer you a superb emergency back-up. Every traveller should carry one, even if you don't plan on using it.
If your air ticket is lost, or you need to fly home in an emergency, your credit card can make this possible. Your credit card will be accepted in better shops in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, so if you develop an unplanned infatuation with an expensive art object, you can buy it without having to carry hundreds of dollars in cash or checks. Please remember to keep your receipts in case you have questions about the conversion or exchange rate. Also keep your receipts as a proof of purchase.

How Much Money To TakeDo not count on being able to withdraw cash with a credit card, a debit card or an ATM card. Whilst this service is becoming increasingly available, it might not be functional/available on some of the areas you might be visiting. Plan to carry enough money to cover your expected expenses, plus a small reserve. Your credit card can be your financial emergency back up kit.
By far, the biggest variable in your budget may as well be your taste for souvenirs. You take a few meals on your own; these will cost between $10 and $15 each, including a 10%-15% for tipping.

You might also spend a bit on telephone bills, laundry and drinks. Other incidental expenses may arise from domestic and regional airport departure taxes. This may happen in cases where your itinerary includes some internal flights and the tickets do not include the local departure tax. In such cases, these figures are variable depending on the dates of travel, the airport in question and even the country. A confirmation closer to your dates of travel with your Safari Outfitter may give you an idea.

Most people on our trips carry between $500 and $600 (for a two weeks visit) for all extra expenses. (If you have a safari extension, such as to the beach - take about $300 more) If this seems low, take more. If this seems high, remember that you don't have to spend it all.The Local CurrencyAll the three East Africa Currencies (shillings) are composed of 100 cents. For current exchange rates, please refer to the internet or a newspaper.

Tipping SuggestionsIn East Africa, all tipping on your trip is optional, and the amounts given, if any, are strictly dependent on your decision, obviously based on your satisfaction with the services rendered. For those who want suggestions, we offer the following guidelines.
You may budget for between 2% and 3% of the entire cost of your trip.

Always remember that amounts given, if any, are personal decision, and if travelling in a group, every group member does not have to give the same amount. US dollar cash is preferred for tipping safari staff.
At the end of your trip, if travelling in a group: a volunteer group member can 'pass the hat' and present a collective tip to your drivers/guides. Many travellers give between $3 to $ 10 per safari day. You can also tip the drivers and guides individually.
Enjoy your trip to Africa.