‘vacations’ Category

Top Ten Things To Do In Australia

November 16th, 2011 Tushar Mathur

When you visit Australia you are visiting one of the friendliest countries in the world. A land of breathtaking scenery surrounded by the sea, Australia is a trip you will want to make again and again. Here are the top then things to do there.

Bungy Jumping. For some reason Australians are fascinated with this sport and travelers who are brave may want to join in. Journey to Queenstown to the Kawarau Bridge and sign up with one of the expert bungy jumping tour companies to take your turn. For adventure travelers!

Sydney. One of the most interesting cities in Australia, take time to tour around Sydney and see the beautiful opera house, Sydney Bridge, Sydney Harbor, the aquarium, fish market, Royal Botanical Gardens, and Bondi Beach.

Whitsundays. More often than not on the covers of international travel magazines, the dozens of pristine Whitsundays islands hovering over the Great Barrier Reef are some of the most beautiful tropical destinations on earth. Sail into the bay of an isolated island and make it your own. Snorkel. Fish. Go beach combing. You will be in paradise.

Hunter Valley Wineries. Located just outside of Sydney, the Hunter Valley is home to Australia’s wine industry. It makes a wonderful day trip. Rent a car or take an organized tour bus of the wineries for tastings and stops for gourmet meals.

Blue Mountains National Park. Nature enthusiasts will want to take a trip just outside of Sydney to Blue Mountains Park to visit the rain forest and the Three Sisters stone formation. Look to the specialized tour companies for adventure tours of this popular national park or of you are feeling brave get out on some of the world’s best roads on your motorbike. Just make sure you’ve got your motorcycle insurance sorted!

Ayers Rock in the Outback. A most spectacular rock formation that glows red in the setting and rising sun, Ayers Rock is also a holy site for the native Aboriginal people of Australia. A tour company specializing in Ayers Rock would be a great way to visit this amazing natural phenomenon.

Gold Coast. Australia’s answer to Miami Beach, the glitzy Gold Coast stretches along beautiful golden sand beaches lined with high rise hotels, condominiums, shops and an endless array of restaurants. This is a very popular tourist destination which is well serviced by resorts and major hotels.

Byron Bay. Surfers and outdoor enthusiasts flock to Bryon Bay for the waves and beach culture. Wellness enthusiasts come for the vibe.

Adelaide. Food lovers will be thrilled to visit Adelaide Central Market.

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4 Must See Places To Visit in Australia

November 5th, 2009 Tushar Mathur

Australia’s history is complex, to say the least. An incredibly topographically varied land once primarily host to the aboriginals, and then later transformed into an English prison colony, Australia is now a thriving, sophisticated continent that has managed to preserve its wild side while sustaining one of the most culturally vibrant cities in the world. When visiting Australia, you absolutely must see these four places to get the full essence of the land down under.

1. Great Barrier Reef

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef isn’t exaggerating – there’s really no other place like it. The Reef stretches for 2600 kilometers and has about 900 separate islands. An incredible variety of sea life makes this place its home. The elaborate coral polyps that build the structures that make up the reef, which is the largest structure built by living creatures, make the Reef a beautiful view no matter what angle you approach it from, whether its from a scuba diving perspective, from the air, or even from space! Initially discovered by Western civilization in 1770 when James Cook accidentally ran his ship into the Reef, the Reef has been a spiritual place for the aboriginals for thousands of years, and continues to be a great place to fish and dive.

2. Uluru

This rock outcropping, which radiates in a gorgeous, deep red, especially at sunset, is located near the geographical heart of Australia, and figuratively is the continent’s center, and its actual highest point. Once a sacred aboriginal place (from which it derives its name) a visitor can climb Uluru in a day and take in an awe-inspiring view of the surrounding desert. The easy-to-walk plateau peak makes Uluru a place of contemplation and fun.

3. Sydney Harbor Bridge

If you prefer man-made wonders, the Sydney Harbor Bridge will delight your senses. Encompassing an iconic view of Australia’s capital city of Sydney, the bridge is both architecturally stunning and aesthetically pleasing. The world’s widest long span bridge, “The Coathanger” as it is called by locals, due its bowed out shape, takes in the Sydney Opera House and the gorgeous expanse of the city. For visitors who want to see the city all at once, there’s no better way than hopping a car across the Sydney Harbor Bridge.

4. Blue Mountains

While you’re in Sydney, you would benefit from planning an expedition to the Blue Mountains, which are within an hour’s drive of the capital. The gorgeous valleys, peaks and gorges feature incredible rock formations and vibrant outgrowths of vegetation. There are cave paintings, ancient dwellings and heart-stopping views interspersed among a variety of elevations.

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Holidays in Lanzarote

October 15th, 2009 Tushar Mathur

Volcanic LanzaroteLanzarote is part of the Canarian archipelago. A group of seven islands located off the coast of Africa which are often referred to as Europe´s Hawaii. Thanks to their volcanic terrain and great year round climate.

The Canaries first started to emerge as a popular holiday destination during the 1970´s – as package tourism started to take off in Spain. And are now established as the second most popular destination in the country, second only to Catalonia.

Lanzarote is located at the far eastern end of the group – and is more arid than the other islands. Boasting lower rainfall and less flora as a result. Lanzarote has also been more visibly affected than the other Canary Islands by volcanic activity. As a huge series of eruptions here in the 1730´s covered much of the interior in lava, whilst creating hundreds of new volcanic peaks in it’s wake.

As you’d expect from a well established tourist destination Lanzarote boasts great beaches – over 90 in fact. With some, such as Famara and Papagayo, regarded as amongst the best in the Canaries. The beaches here are also comprised of golden sands – as opposed to the black grains that predominate on the other islands.

Travel To Lanzarote

Lanzarote is just four hours flying time from the UK and Germany. The island’s two largest tourist markets. In the UK competition on this route has increased considerably over the last year – with both easyJet and Ryanair now offering low cost flights to Lanzarote from all major UK airports. With returns starting from around £100, depending on the time of year.

Where To Stay in Lanzarote

There’s a wide selection of accommodation options on the island. During the winter months the resort of Playa Blanca, located at the southern tip of Lanzarote, is the best choice. As this area enjoys the best microclimate. Whist also boasting the largest selection of four star hotels and luxury villas in Lanzarot.

The island oldest resort of Puerto del Carmen is ideal for anyone planning an apartment holiday on a budget. As this resort has the highest concentration of self catering complexes on the island.

Getting Around

Car hire on Lanzarote is much better value than in other Spanish sunspots such as the Balearics. Where prices rise dramatically during he summer season. On Lanzarote however rental rates remain the same all year round, starting at around €13 per day for basic model.

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Off-Road Driving

July 10th, 2009 Tushar Mathur

New to off-road driving? Anxious to check out the four-wheel drive?
Here are just a few tips to keep you safe on the off-beaten path.

First, you need to do some preparing. Knowing how your vehicle works and what it is limited to is very important. You need to know what your vehicle is capable of, and stay within that range. Understanding your 4X4 system is equally important. Also, make sure that you are aware of your approach, ramp, and departure angles. This will help ensure no damage is created to your vehicle.

Become familiar with the feel of driving your 4X4. Start out with driving on dry, flat land to ensure the comfort of your vehicle. Knowing how your vehicle will handle during sharp turns, quick braking, etc. is also good practice.

Always be prepared for any kind of emergency. You never know when you might break down, and you should have supplies on hand. Flashlight, blanket, flashers, coat, spare tire and jack, etc are some items that should be carried in case of an emergency. Letting someone know where you are going and when you plan on returning from your off-road trip is also good practice in case you do have trouble. Not all areas receive cell phone service.

It is also a good practice to check out your vehicle before leaving. Tires filled completely, oil and other fluids at the correct level, including gasoline levels. Checking for tears or rips in hoses is also a good idea. This will help ensure a safe and fun trip and a prompt return home.

Make sure you are familiar with the path you are on. Make sure that the trail you are taking allows you the time to return home by the designated hour.

While on your off-road trip, make it a habit not to litter. It is just as illegal to throw out trash in the woods as it is in town or on a highway. Littering includes cigarette butts or food wrappers. Even candy wrappers are considered littering.

Know your limitations, and know the limitations of your vehicle as well. By taking some of these tips in consideration will help ensure a fun and safe experience in your 4X4 Off-Road adventure.

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Traveling to Asia

September 17th, 2008 Tushar Mathur

AsiaImmensely popular as a tourist destination, Asia provides a peek into a rich history and an even richer culture. In fact, some of the great wonders of the world can be found within the boundaries of this continent.

Travelers to Asia will probably have the Great Wall of China as their first stop. Extending to about 2,414 kilometers or 1,500 miles with a height of about 25 feet, the wall has been said to be visible even in outer space. Erected by the Qin dynasty?s first emperor Shihuangdi to defend the city from the nomadic people, the wall is made out of earth and stone.

Another worthy travel spot in Asia, particularly in China is the Terra-cotta Warriors and Soldiers Museum in Xi?an China, which is considered to be one of the world?s greatest archaeological find. Another tourist destination that should be in the list of any traveler to Asia is the Forbidden City, now known as the Palace Museum in Beijing. The enclosed location holds the former palaces of Chinese emperors. Tiananmen Square, which is also located in Beijing, set adjacent to the Forbidden City. A witness to a series of student-led demonstrations and rallies in 1989 calling for the removal of Deng Xiaoping, the square is now a memorial of those whose lives were sacrificed. Asian travelers will probably want to also go to Dunhang, where ancient Buddhist frescoes in caves can be found.

One of the wonders of the ancient world, the Angkor is a major archaeological site located in the northwest parts of Cambodia. A historical travel spot in Asia, the ruins have two Hindu temple complexes, the Angkor Wat and the Angkor Thom, which is less popular having been built later. And though the site has been damaged much by warfare, a traveler in Asia can still feel the ancient spirit of the place living on.

Taj Mahal is another ancient site that continues to lure travelers in Asia into its midst. Located in Agra, India, the temple was made by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal (Jewel of the Palace) who died in childbirth after bearing him 14 children.

Bangkok, Thailand is another travel spot in Asia. One of its most popular tourist destination is the Wat Pho or the Temple of the Reclining Buddha.

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Ways To Identify Your Luggage Before the Trip

August 24th, 2008 Tushar Mathur

When planning a trip there is something many leave out; something which can save a lot of time if you are ahead of the game. If you have ways to identify your luggage quickly once you deplane, you’ll be able to get out of the airport much faster – and spend more time enjoying your vacation!

It’s not always easy to figure out which luggage is yours in the bustle of an airport baggage claim – next time you’re waiting at the baggage carousel, make a note of how many identical black canvas bags you see. I’m guessing this accounts for the bulk of the bags there in the carousel, right? This is why baggage mix-ups happen so often; a lot of people have baggage which is the same color, size and style as everyone else!

If you are in the market to purchase new luggage, consider getting something a bit offbeat. While it’s impossible to be completely unique unless you have a custom design, you can move away from the standard black or brown bags most people gravitate toward. For the more creative types perhaps bold patterns or bright colors will do the trick. Of course, this strategy isn’t for everyone.

Making A Statement And Finding Your Bags

You can make your luggage stand out from all the other bags on the carousel by tying a brightly colored ribbon or patterned scarf to them. You should go for a color or pattern which is more unusual to minimize the chance that someone else with the same idea will accidentally grab your luggage or vice versa. For this reason, you should always check your luggage tags, no matter how unique you think your ribbon or scarf to be.

Another problem with ribbons or scarves is that they could become caught on something during the handling process. Not only can this slow down or damage the handling equipment, your luggage identification may become damaged or removed completely. If you still want to use this strategy, make sure you also include an actual tag listing all of your contact information.

You should also have your contact information inside all of your bags. Why? In the event that your bag is lost or mistaken for someone else’s bag, this can help you and your luggage be reunited. It’s also useful in the event all of your tags are somehow lost during handling.

A growing number of travelers have turned to personalized luggage tags as a way to keep better track of their belongings.

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What You Should Know About Online Hotel Booking

August 19th, 2008 Tushar Mathur

It is always a good idea to book the hotel rooms online when you are planning for your trip. You can get a lower price when you do so. Yet in order to avoid any scam, you will need to be very carefully when you are booking online. You should try to think about the following.

First of all, you will need to know the website allows you to cancel your booking online. If it does not allow you to cancel online, you may not want to book with this site since it will not be flexible enough in case you have to cancel the trip for some reason.

Without any surprise, the prices will be the most important when you are making your decision. As a result, you should read carefully about the prices stated on the site. Is the price per person or per room? You will also need to know if taxes will be added when you book.

Another important thing you want to know is whether meals will be included. Some hotel packages will include breakfast while some may even include dinner. In some cases there can be some deduction in price if you do not need the meals to be included.

It will be a good idea to have some previews of the hotels. To this end you may want to view some photos of the hotels. There are some sites which will have photos of the rooms. You can have a general idea of the hotel before you book it.

The reputation of a hotel can also be very essential. As a result you may want to know if there are any people who have been staying in a particular hotel before. It will be very good if there is some kind of commenting system on the website so that you will know if the hotel is a good one.

You should not pay with your credit card if it is possible. It will be perfect if you can pay using some third party gateway such as PayPal and Epassporte.

You will be able to get very good deal if you book the hotel room online. The key is that you should be very careful when you choose the site. You could also visit some online travel forums to see if there are any recommendations by other users.

Image Source: http://www.travelmadeeasy.in

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Travel Tips for Dublin, Ireland

August 13th, 2008 Tushar Mathur

Traveling to the land of the leprechauns is probably the most exciting vacation that the family or the romantic couple will have. But these magical creatures will not ensure that your travel arrangements are ready and waiting for you. You will have to make your own planning for your accommodations, transportation, and the places that you will want to visit and explore. At the same time, there is more to Ireland than the folklore of fantastical creatures. The Emerald Isle, especially in Dublin, is steeped with history, culture, and entertainment. To enjoy the best of Dublin, Ireland, here are some tips that may help.

Transportation tips

The cheapest way around Dublin and the surrounding counties of the eastern coast is through the public mass transportation. But you can also utilize the taxis. When using taxis, you must avoid arranging for pickups because there is a charge for this service, which is separate from the fare. It is cheaper to hail a taxi that comes your way. If your destination is more than 7 miles away, (always check your map) it is best to first negotiate a fare with the taxi driver. A trip that is charged for €80 may be drastically reduced to €50. Then, while riding in a taxi, strike up a conversation with the driver. They have their own unique perspective about the history and politics of Ireland.

Accommodation tips

Ireland is a fast growing destination. Thus, it is foolhardy to go straight to Dublin without prior accommodation arrangements. There are numerous hotels around Dublin and most of them are converted historical buildings. If you are traveling to Dublin to see a specific destination, it is best to choose a hotel that is only a few blocks away. For example, you may want to explore the St. Stephen’s Green where public hangings were conducted in the 18th century. The nearest hotels include the Mercer Hotel, the O’ Callaghan, the Westbury, the Camden deluxe, and the Premier Suites. If you can find some cheap flights to Dublin…great!

Packing tips

Even if you are visiting Dublin, Ireland in summer, be sure to bring an umbrella and a coat. The skies of the Dublin County will never run out of rain.

Budget touring tips

If you are touring Dublin on a budget, some of the best historical and cultural places to go are museums and parks. The most well-maintained and extensive museums are actually open free to the public. These are the National Museum, the National Gallery, the Hugh Lane Gallery, and the Chester Beatty Library, which is located at the Dublin Castle.

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Maui After Dark

June 18th, 2008 Tushar Mathur

Maui After Dark

This review is a continuation to my earlier post Maui: A True Paradise on Earth. Here we take a look at what Maui has to offer for our “After Dark” entertainment.

Maui is an island teaming with diversity and nighttime offerings on the island are no different. Visitors to Maui can enjoy nature, food and dancing at locations all over the island.

The summit of Haleakala provides a beautiful location to view a Maui sunset. After dark the summit provides the perfect location for stargazing. ‘Tour of the Stars’, offered on the rooftop of the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, features Hawaii?s only recreational telescope.

The Director of Astronomy provides participants with astronomical instruction and then leads them step-by-step through identifying the celestial objects with binoculars and the telescope. Special couples’ only viewings add an additional touch of romance to a Maui vacation. Other Maui stargazing activities are offered at the Grand Wailea Resort and the Kaanapali Embassy Suites.

Many sea creatures become most active after dark. Divers can experience an after-dark dive off Maui when eels, manta rays and big fish come out to play. Mike Severns Diving and Ed Robinson Diving Adventures, both offer nighttime dives to Maui visitors who are scuba certified.

Maui visitors wanting to watch the same nocturnal ocean antics without getting wet should check out the ‘Aquarium After Dark’ program at the Maui Ocean Center.

On full moon nights, Maui visitors can join the Monthly Moonlight Mo?olelo sessions at the Ritz-Carlton. Held on a beach house lawn under the full moon, this event celebrates the Maui island tradition of story-telling.

Every Maui vacation should include one evening spent enjoying the Hawaiian traditional luau celebration. Hula dancers, traditional Hawaiian food, and Hawaiian music are standard at all Maui luaus.

Most hotels and resorts offer luaus but the most authentic luau on Maui is considered to be the Old Lahaina Luau. Luaus on Maui are usually all you can eat and drink, including alcohol. A traditional luau is set on the beach or within sight of the ocean. Maui visitors can experience refreshing ocean breezes while enjoying their great food and entertainment.

Visitors looking for a more traditional vacation party atmosphere can find it on Maui as well. Lahaina and Kihei are considered the best places on Maui to party and meet other tourists. Featuring bars with live music and dancing, both areas draw large crowds in the evening. Resort and hotel bars often host music nightly also.

Dinner shows also draw Maui visitors to Lahaina. Warren and Annabelle’s, located on Front Street, consistently receives rave reviews.

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Maui: A True Paradise on Earth

May 22nd, 2008 Tushar Mathur

The allure of Maui entices travelers like few other places on earth. As the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands, Maui is a tropical paradise that tempts visitors with awe-inspiring natural beauty. An exploration of Maui uncovers activities to interest all visitors.

The gentle semi-tropical climate of Maui results in little temperature variation throughout the year. High temperatures on Maui range from the mid 70s to the mid 80s, and lows range from the mid 60s to the mid 70s.

Lightweight clothing, swimsuits and a sweater or jacket for evening are perfect for a Maui vacation. Attire on Maui is generally casual, although attending a luau may call for men to wear a tropical shirt and women to dress in a muumuu or colorful sundress. During summer, daylight lasts for nearly 13 hours.

In 1843 King Kamehameha the Great named the Maui village of Lahaina the capital of his kingdom. Lahaina, once known as the whaling capital of the world, now offers Maui visitors an exciting mixture of both old and new. Visitors can rest under the shade of the Banyan Tree planted in 1873, walk through the Old Courthouse, or wander through small shops featuring Maui souvenirs, gifts, clothing and more.

Visitors can expect to enjoy relaxing days on the beautiful Maui beaches. In addition to the common sand beaches, Maui offers black sand beaches and red sand beaches. From sunbathing to surfing to snorkeling, the beaches of Maui offer something for everyone.

The natural beauty of Maui extends beyond the beaches to the lush mountains. Halekala National Park on Maui has been ranked a top national park by Consumer Reports for good reason. The park offers 32 miles of marked hiking trails.

The stunning sunrise view from the summit is popular among Maui tourists. The temperatures at the summit are cold; during the winter months a dusting of snow is not uncommon so warm dress is required. A visit to the summit provides a dramatic demonstration of the diversity of Maui.

Outdoor enthusiasts find Maui offers plenty of activities. In addition to hiking, Maui visitors can enjoy biking, kayaking and hang gliding. All offer the benefit of up-close viewing of the beauty of Maui.

Golfers will find delight in 17 Maui golf courses. Golf is referred to as Maui’s favorite sport. Courses on Maui are set on gorgeous lagoons, volcanic slopes, and in rainforests. Golf is a year-round sport on Maui with major professional events held during the winter months.

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