Travel Insurance - Why You Need It

Travel Isurance is something that you need to not only protect your hard earned money but it can provide piece of mind for you to know that not only are you safe from all circumstances but also that of your family.

Here are just a few reasons you might want to keep in mind if you ever find yourself debating whether you should purchase travel insurance or not.

Have you ever considered what would happen if...


My travel supplier declared bankruptcy

I missed my flight connection due to flight delays and the next one out is only the following day.

I'm too sick to travel.

My wallet or purse has just been stolen.

A medical emergency has happened while abroad and my health insurance doesn't cover it.

These are just a few things that you may want to think about. The thing about travel, is that things don't always go the way we plan them and sometimes circumstances that we couldn't have even imagined arise. This is why you should always have travel insurance.

Keep yourself, your family and hard earned money protected; with the right travel insurance, you are sure to have a great fun and safe vacation.

Finding Cheaper Accommodation

Accommodation can be affordable, you just need to know a few things that could help you find what you're looking for. Here is some advice that I've found to be very useful.

There are so many price choices available, you will be amazed!
Pick up some brochures from your local travel agent and have a
look at what’s there. Go online and check out
www.tripadvisor.com. If you’ve not been there, one of the many
things that you will find is unbiased reviews of the hotels
written by guests that have stayed in the hotels. You will even
find that some of the more expensive hotels are actually rated
less than some of the affordable ones, so it’s well worth a look
and a bit of your time!

Don’t be shy, ask for an upgrade!

You’d be surprised at how easy it is to get upgraded and
you might just get a bigger and better room for the same price
you were just about to pay! You’ll never know unless you take
the chance and ask, you’ve got nothing to lose, only a better
room to gain!

More Quick Tips for Planning a Cruise Vacation

Here are some more tips to help you plan that cruise ship vacation!

Be aware of added charges!

If you are planning to cruise alone and don't want to share your cabin, you can anticipate a single's supplement charge of 10% to 100% of a per person's rate (depending on cruise line). In addition, a lot of cruises require you to pay extra for any cruise shore excursions, or any special activities that are offered on board. Be prepared to spend an additional 30% of the cost to take part in any of these activities.


Know when the best time to cruise is.

Cruising is usually a little cheaper during the spring or fall. Weather can be uncertain, especially in the fall given many Caribbean destinations could have hurricane seasons during this time. This is something to watch out for. The dry season for Caribbean cruises is during the summer where as the rainy season is during the winter. Other cruise lines have short cruising seasons, such as Alaska cruises which normally run from May to September.

And most important; have fun!

One of the most important tips that I can give to you on your cruise ship vacation is to have a great time. Relax! After all it's your vacation and you deserve to make the most out of it. There are many things for you to do, fancy dinners and dressing up, meeting new friends, visiting exotic locations, being on deck in the sun, doing cruise shore excursions, and much more! It's important to have fun, so when you come back you feel better about yourself and that you got the most out of your time and money.

Cruises are a great way to spend times away and with these tips in mind, I have no doubt that your cruise trip will be a complete success!

Quick Tips for Planning a Cruise Vacation

Cruising is a wonderful and relaxing way to see several countries while enjoying the sun. Today cruise ships are extremely popular due to their low cost and luxury travel experience but like all travel, there are a few things that you should be aware of before you start to plan your cruise ship vacation.

Here a couple of tips that will help you on your journey.


All inclusive cruises are not available!

Contrary to popular belief, most cruise lines don't offer all inclusive packages. Alcohols, soft drinks and even water are all extra, and believe me, those can add up really quickly! The things that are included are the cruise itself, your cabin and usually at least 2 meals a day.


Make sure to shop around and consult different cruise agents

Cruise agents are like travel agents but are experts in cruising. Tell them exactly what it is that you are looking for and visit several agencies, as you could recieve many different quotes for the same cruise. Also, make sure to look for deals that are in the off weeks because you can find fares that are $2000 one week but the next might only be $800!


Cruising is an absolutely exceptional way to spend your vacation! They can be very relaxing and very enjoyable but like all vacations, you need to know what is required and what you will be getting before making a big purchase. Look for tomorrow's blog, where I will be giving more tips to help you along with planning your cruise ship vacation.

Get a Vacation Rental for Less Than a Hotel

If you're considering taking a trip to the Caribbean, you may want to consider staying in vacation rentals versus a hotel. You can rent your holiday lodging from the owners of homes, villas, cabins and condominiums and oftentimes for much less than you would pay for a hotel. Many times, these homes are like staying in your fantasy dream home.

Here are a few reasons you may want to consider a vacation rental.

· Why share your vacation with hundreds of other hotel guests, when you can have your own private home to share with your closest friends?

· You will save a ton of money on restaurant bills because you can cook for yourself and eat as healthy as you do at home.

· You have a chance to live in the type of Caribbean home that you see featured in movies and in luxury home magazines. If that’s something you’ve always dreamt of having, why not vacation in one?

· Be right on the beach with your own private access

· Would you like to have your own pool, large deck, maybe even a gazebo and Jacuzzi? All of those can be yours too.

· You can have all of this for less than what you would pay for a hotel! If you are travelling during low season for example, Apr-Dec, you can find prices that are as low as $3600/ 7 days! Not only that, these homes offer everything described above and can accommodate 6+ people. That works out to only $600/ person! Even if you would like to travel during the high season, you can find prices as low as $5400/ 7 days. That is still only $900/ person, using 6 people as a number. Try finding a luxury hotel for less than $130 per night!

· Choose your home where you would like it to be. Are you looking to be in the hustle and bustle of people and tourists; would you like to be close to all the tourist attractions? Or would you prefer to be on your own secluded beach, maybe off the beaten track? Your choices are literally endless, why not have the vacation of a lifetime your way?

The best way to search for these accommodations is via the internet as most have websites and it is the easiest way to find exactly what you are looking for and to compare prices. Save money and live your vacation dreams with private rentals, there is sure to be a match for you!

How to Survive While Travelling - Tips for Foreign Travel

In one way or another, aside from the business purpose that some travelers pursue, traveling is known to be one outlet for the adventurous aspect of a lot of people. Sure, traveling can be one heck of a fun activity. However, you never know what can happen while enjoying the sights and scenes during the trip.

To avoid getting caught off guard while traveling, here are a few tips to ensure survival while traveling:

1. Know your water.

Ever heard of the traveler's diarrhea? This condition is caused by contaminated water that a foreigner has drunk. Aside from that diarrhea, a list of diseases abound due to contaminated water. To prevent getting any of those water-borne diseases, make sure you boil your drinking water for at least 10 minutes.

2. Milk will do.

Remember that thing they say regarding milk as the complete food? It still is true. As long as you boil it for at least 10 minutes too, like water, it will serve as one of your best sources of nutrition. Local processed milk products may not be safe for your tummy, better opt for a more popular brand of milk product.

3. Vitamins Schmitamins.

Bringing vitamins will help in warding off many of the diseases that an unguarded (with resistance-building supplements) person may be so prone to. Multivitamins can be more convenient to bring than separate vitamins for various needs.

4. Battling extreme temperatures.

Doing your homework before going to any foreign country will save you from a lot of trouble. These troubles may include temperature or weather induced inconveniences. An online consultation will inform you what to bring to gear up against any problem that may be caused by the weather or temperature.

If you are to go to one of the warmer spots of the world, your luggage will benefit a lot since you don't have to bring a heavy and thick wardrobe. Now if you are about to visit a place like Antarctica, one tip is to choose your clothes well so as not to stock up much on those that you will not be using that much.

5. Taking care of your skin.

Don't forget your bottle of moisturizer if you're going somewhere cold. A sunscreen will be very indispensable too. A lotion or anything that will ward off insects is one must-have that should never be overlooked either. One best advice that is applicable too even when you're not traveling that much is to avoid getting sun exposure as much as possible.

Travel Do's and Don'ts When Travelling to Spain

For people who love to travel, going to places that they have not been before will seem like a dream come true for most of them. This is because they get to go to places where everything will look new, the adventures are definitely fresh and the surrounding all too vague and strange that makes the travel more exciting.

However, not all places are created equal. This goes to show that not all rules and regulations are applicable to every place or location. That is why it is extremely important to know some information about the place itself and identify the governing laws.

For example, take Spain. It is, indeed, a great and enjoyable country to visit. Yet, visiting Spain can do more harm than good if things are not done properly or when people bring with them unnecessary things.

So, for those who want some travel tips in the event that they plan to visit Spain, here’s a list that will help them through.

1. Do some homework.

For people who are first timers in Spain, it is best that they do their homework first. That is, research more about the country, its government, some special laws that needs to be kept in mind while there, or the kind of people present so as to have an idea about how to deal with them good-naturedly.

2. Valid passports.

It is best to travel, especially going to Spain, with valid travel documents and passports. This is to avoid inconvenience and further problems. This is because there are countries that might not give some leeway on the travelers that is why it is important to get ready with authentic ones in case some questions arise.

3. Pets rule.

There are instances wherein people who have pets just don’t have anyone who will take care of their pets while they are away. That is why they opt to bring their pets while on travel.

However, it is more easily said than done because carrying pets along is more tedious that what travelers tend to believe.

First, the pet owner must first secure “custom certificates” that indicates the origin of the pet and certifies that the pet is in good condition and can easily conform to the norms and standards set by the country like Spain. It should also indicate the kind and nature of vaccines taken by the pet, if any.

The bottom line: It’s still best to be prepared whenever somebody wants to travel to places like Spain. This simply means that the more prepared a traveler is, the lesser he or she will encounter some problems.

The People of Rome

In a recent blog, I talked about how Rome is a very magical place with very unique landmarks that are an absolute joy to see!

Today, I want to talk about something a little different. Not about the landmarks or how beautiful the city is but instead the people, the food and the way people interact with you.

You see, Italian people are incredibly friendly, and even though most of them do not speak very good English they will always try to communicate. One of the things I found so interesting, is that no matter how poorly they could really communicate to us in our language, they really tried to get their point across. I know my wife, Sarah, had a day where she went to the beach and an older woman who probably knew all of about 5 words in the English language invited her in for dinner, sat her down, took good care of her and really made her feel at home. This is the type of thing you are bound to see when you visit a place like Rome.

The food is absolutley incredible if you like pasta. The prices are also pretty reasonable, for any nice restaurant you will expect to pay around 10 Euros for a personal size pizza (and their 'personal size' is the equivalent of our 12" if not bigger!!), or pasta dish which given that Italy is an expensive country, that really is not too bad. I can tell you from first hand experience, it will be the best pasta you will ever eat. I spent a full two months in Rome and I never got tired of the food at all! I highly recommend lasagna or any speciality dishes they would like to prepare for you. Be aware though, their pizza is VERY different than what you are used to. You can expect a very thin crust with a unique set of toppings! Although, You will only truly understand what I mean when you get there and try it yourself!

Remember, going to Rome is not just about beautiful landmarks, gorgeous weather and astonishing sites to see. It is also about people, personality, food, and that special feeling you get as soon as you get to the city, until the day you leave.

Until next time!

Jason

Want some added comfort for your flight? Follow my tips.

It’s always so exciting when the day of travel arrives and all you can think about is the new places you’re going to see and all the things that you’re going to get to do. The only problem is that to get there, you may be facing one long flight! That flight usually entails a big limitation on your personal space, legs that may soon begin to feel like rubber if they get any more cramped, and if you’re really unlucky, flight staff that just don’t seem to be enjoying their jobs or wanting to make you feel as comfortable as possible. In my many years of travel, I’ve learned a few simple things that always make me feel better.

Since there may be a shortage of blankets and pillows (or none at all as the case may be) I always like to carry my own. I’ve got my handy dandy travel pillow that wraps around my neck, and a small fleece blanket that always makes me feel cozy. Let’s face it, your neck is bound to get uncomfortable, and those little pillows that are provided by your airline really just don’t do the trick. You can pick up your own travel pillow at a variety of different places or at just about any airport you go into. Their blankets? Same deal…not a lot of it and not all that much warmth. Being on an airline means that the temperature is going to vary greatly and sometimes it is just really, really cold and if you’re like me, I can’t stand to be cold! So I bring my own blanket. It also makes me feel like the little space that I have, all belongs to me! It may be a silly thing but to me, means a lot. Easiest way to avoid taking up your carry on allowance with these extra things? Attach it to the outside of your carry on!

Here’s another one….food. Sometimes when you get on the plane you are just starving! Well depending on your airline, you may or may not get food! Sometimes there’s food to purchase, sometimes (depending on your time of travel) there’s just a mini snack, and by mini, I mean Mini! Or other times they’re going to feed you but you’re on such a big flight, that it might take a couple of hours before you’re getting anything. I’m pretty sure that you know what I’m about to say! Yep, you’re right…if you’re worried you might not get satisfied, bring some food that you know is going to do the trick for you! Just put it in your carry on and you’re good to go!

So the flight’s going good, you’re enjoying it for the most part…but you’re legs feel like they are going numb! It’s really important that you keep the blood flowing. As you know, there are some not good things that can happen to you when you don’t do this, such as blood clots. To avoid this, move your legs and toes as much as you can. If you don’t want to get up, stretch out one at a time as much as you can, wiggle your toes, rotate your ankles…whatever you can do to keep that blood flow moving! Stand up and take a walk, depending on the size of your plane, there are viewing windows that can be found at the back and middle of the plane, maybe you’ll even meet a few of your fellow passengers!

These are just a few things that I’ve learned to make me feel better while on route and hopefully this will help you as well! One more thing, a big happy smile on your face is really going to go a long way, from getting great service from the staff, to meeting a potential new friend!

Till next time!

Sarah

Welcome to Rome

Have you ever been to a place with an atmosphere so absolutely breath-taking that you wish you didn't have to leave?

Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to Rome!

Rome, was built thousands of years ago, and as such the buildings that you will see there are very ancient and astounding. The city is one big landmark, full of beautiful architecture, sculptures, and monuments. One of the most eye-popping things you will see there is the Trevi Fountain. It is the most famous and the most beautiful fountain that you will find in all of Rome! It is absolutely huge, standing at 85ft high and 65 ft wide! Even to this day, the former aqueduct called the "Aqua Virgo" brings water from 20km outside of the city to supply the centre of Rome and this beautiful landmark with water. There is also an old legend that Romans still believe to be true. They say if you throw a coin into the water, over your shoulder and behind your back, you will one day return to Rome. I myself have not returned to Rome yet but I am positive that some day I will. I was fortunate enough to spend over two months in this breathtaking city. Stay tuned, as there is so much more that I would love to share with you about the Eternal City.

Until next time!
Jason

Flashback to Disney World

Today, we are going to do a flashback to everyone's favourite place! Disney World in Orlando, Florida !

Ok…ok…. So maybe it's not your favourite place but I assure you, if you haven't been that is the only reason why.

Now, I know some people may think Disney World is just for kids. While they do tend to cater to the young crowd, I think there is just as much to do there for adults as there are for kids. There are so many fun thrill rides to take part in, the fireworks show at night is absolutely incredible and it is very romantic for you and your significant other, especially when it actually feels as magical as they say.

The thing I found the most fun when I was in Disney World was the atmosphere. People everywhere are so happy. I am really convinced those who don't like it, or don't have fun, simply don't wish to have fun. You almost have to try to not enjoy yourself, and that is a hard task giving the seemingly endless things to do.

I also find that when Im on a vacation, it really helps when everyone around you are also having a great time. Families are watching huge smiles on their children's faces when they meet Mickey Mouse and company for the first time. Couples are getting married or going there for their anniversaries. People even take their honeymoon at Disney World because of its romance. The huge castles and fireworks at night is really the best way you could ever dream of for an ending to a magical evening.

There is really something there for everyone. Whether you are 6 years old, or 60, I know that Disney World has something to offer! So next time you are thinking about which tropical destination you and your family should be going, remember that Disney World will be an experience you will treasure for a lifetime!

Until next time!

Jason

Tips on How to Enjoy Travelling With Kids

Thinking twice on bringing your kids along when you travel? Traveling with children need not be stressful. Here are few tips on how you can enjoy your trip with less trouble and more fun.

*Plan with your kids

Get the opinion of your kids, this way they can get involved and get excited about it. Children have limited attention span and can easily get tired. Choose simple but fun activities.

*Things to bring

Bring along disposable stuff like diapers instead of cloth. You can rent out strollers or pram which is more convenient than bringing along bulky equipments. Remember to pack any medication your children need and a first- aid kit. If with an infant, bring sterilizing equipment for bottle- feeding.

*Keep them busy

Make the trip enjoyable for the kids by bringing along their favorite toys. Do not allow them to read on the road, this may add to motion sickness and constrain the eyes.

*Be safe on the road

When in a car, be sure that seatbelts are securely in place. Remove unnecessary things on top of the car ledge, they might fall over and hit your kids when you suddenly step on the break. If traveling in a public vehicle, keep your children on your lap or beside you. Crawling or walking around might cause them to fall.

*Avoid motion sickness

Most children complain of being dizzy and sick while traveling, usually on a ship or a boat. If on the road, you can prevent this by planning several stopovers. Open you car windows to let in some fresh air. Before the trip, be sure that your children took a snack. You can also check with your doctor for appropriate anti-nausea medicines.

*Prevent travelers’ diarrhea

You can avoid child dehydration by bringing plenty of distilled water. Stay away from street foods. Also avoid raw fruits and vegetables, sea foods and rare-cooked meats.

*Pack your kids’ favorite food

Children can be choosy when it comes to food. Adults may want to try out the local delicacies but kids prefer to eat something they are familiar with. Most specialty restaurants might add a kid’s meal to their menu; you can check it out before dining in.

Overall, the most important tip is: be patient. Sure, you will have some bad moments, but traveling with kids can be a lot of fun if you'll take the time to understand them. It’s always nice to see your kids happy and smiling brightly, of course, you should too!

My Experience Swimming with Dolphins!

A couple of years ago, I had the privilege of travelling to Holguin, Cuba. As a travel and tourism student one of the perks is taking a one week trip to a particular destination and ours was Cuba. We stayed in Guardalavaca which is just outside of Holguin on the eastern side of Cuba. What I’m going to share with you today is one of the most amazing experiences that I have had in my life and believe me, I’ve had a lot!

One of the many things that Guardalavaca has to offer is their absolutely incredible outdoor aquarium where you are able to literally swim with the dolphins! What makes this aquarium so unique and special is that the dolphins are not held in captivity. You see, the aquarium is actually attached to the ocean, so every night, the dolphins are released back to their home in the sea and every morning they come back to the aquarium to perform their daily duties!

What makes them come back, you may ask? Well the answer is simple. Food! They get lots and lots of fish there! These dolphins are trained just like any of the dolphins that you might find at say Sea world, with the major difference being that they are free to come and go. It’s truly an incredible thing to witness and participate in.

If swimming with dolphins has been one of your lifelong dreams, then let me tell you all about what you can expect to find from this little aquarium in Guardalavaca, Cuba.

I went to the aquarium on a day trip that was offered through my resort. A bus picks you up in the morning, goes around to all the other resorts getting more passengers and away you go. There’s also a tour guide who’s there with everybody as well. When you get there, you actually have to get on a boat that takes you to the aquarium itself and it’s really cool there! There’s a bar/restaurant that has live Cuban music playing and you’re served a Cuba Libre (Cuba’s most famous drink, Cuban rum and coke, with a twist of lime!) when you first arrive. They have sea lion shows that are really cool too! I never knew sea lions could be so smart and funny!! Next, we’ve got the dolphins!

Your group is led over to one of the dolphin areas where you get to wait for your turn to jump in with them! There are 2 dolphins and you go in the water with a group of 6 (or at least, that’s what we did!) 3 for each dolphin, and now the real fun starts! It’s a 20 minute experience that’s priceless. You start beside them, there’s a trainer there who tells you all about the dolphins while you’re able to pet them and then you get to interact with them. You get them to roll over and clap their fins, you get them to speak and you get to do other crazy things as well! They’ll get you to take their tails and put it over your head like an umbrella and take your picture, the dolphins will go crazy and splash water all over you! The finale is supercool too, it was the highlight for me! One person at a time, you swim to the far end of the pool and float on your belly, you keep you body really, really stiff and then you’re going to feel 2 dolphin noses pushing on your feet and they’re going to swim really fast so that you come up and out of the water and you surf on their noses!! Like seriously, how awesome is that?! When that’s over, the dolphins will come over to either side of you and give you a kiss on the cheek while your picture is taken and that’s your swimming with dolphins experience…but your day still isn’t over!

There’s a dolphin show where you go into a bigger, seated area to watch. They do all kinds of fun and interesting things! There’s also multiple opportunities for some lucky audience members (I got to be one of them!) to participate in the show! The part that I did, was to go down and you get a hula hoop and you hula so that the dolphins can mimic you and they hula with their noses! Well wouldn’t luck have it, that I apparently can’t hula at all, like AT ALL! The hoop went something like this: waist to feet, waist to feet, yes all while there are hundreds of people watching! God love the dolphins they took pity, or showed off, whichever way you want to look at it (I personally choose the first!!) and still did the hula on their noses! After the show, you can walk around and look at the different things, there’s little shops where you can buy things and then when your group’s all ready, you jump back on the boat to head back to your bus.

That day was an absolutely incredible experience. I recommend that everybody should go there and do it! I also forgot to mention that you can buy a video of your day there. You sign up for it before you go in and you can have your whole individual experience on camera!

I hope that you’ve enjoyed reading this as much as I did writing it and reliving my experience once again! Keep checking back for more of my various adventures, till next time!

Sarah

My Adventure Cruising on the Caribbean Sea

Here’s another story from my trip to Holguin, Cuba in Guardalavaca. This one is about another day trip that I took which was going out sailing and snorkelling on a Catamaran. For those of you who haven’t done one of these, I recommend that you do, it’s lots of sun, fun, a great mix of people, fantastic tour guides, an open bar and it just makes for a great party! It’s a total blast!

You get picked up from your resort in the morning, again being joined by people staying at the nearby resorts and then taken down to the boat. What makes these so fun, is that everyone is looking to have an adventure and you can just feel that energy! When you get on the boat, you meet your guides who are always cool people to give you the best time possible! There’s an open bar, there’s lots of talking, you’re meeting a ton of new people…make sure you’re wearing lots and lots of sunscreen! And off you go to your 1^st snorkelling destination. When you get there, you’re given some instructions and off you go! Snorkelling is a great activity, especially for those who aren’t able to dive, it’s the next best thing. You see all kinds of tropical fish and reefs, and it’s just so awesome to witness the different world of life that goes on under the sea! When that trip’s done, you head back to the boat….get some refills, juice or whatever it is you’re having! Just enjoying the people, the sun, the absolutely beautiful ocean and coastline, while you sail to your next destination!

At the next destination, you go through the same routine and then head back to the boat. By this time, the sun’s not quite as hot cause you’re reaching towards the end of the afternoon, most of us are feeling pretty good! The other cool thing that I really liked about the catamaran (that was my first time on one) is the net on the boat! You can look at the water or if you’re like me and feeling a little adventurous, you can jump right in it while the captain takes you through a series of waves and you get totally soaked but it’s such a thrill bouncing through the waves!

At the end of our tour, back on the mainland, we jumped on the bus…this time everybody was laughing and singing all kinds of ridiculous songs all the way to the restaurant we were going to! We had a fantastic crawfish dinner! I didn’t even know that I liked crawfish but apparently I do! After that, it’s back to the resort with still more singing to keep everyone entertained!

It was such a fabulous day and just so much fun! The next time you’re staying at a resort, take one of those day trips…they’re definitely worth the money because you get to leave with a brand new experience! Each one is going to be a little bit different but I’m sure the effect will be the same!

Until my next adventure!

Sarah

Step Inside to Turtle Bay - An Outstanding Hawaii Vacation Resort

For a truly unforgettable experience, the Turtle Bay Resort allows you to discover a piece of True Hawaii. Set on the North shore of Oahu, you will find miles of unspoiled and truly luxurious beaches. It is a place to forget all of your worries and experience the feeling of total relaxation

The North Coast, known for its beautiful beaches and legendary surf, is relatively untouched leaving the Turtle Bay Resort the only one in the area putting you right in the middle of everything.

With the Pacific Ocean at your front door, lushly landscaped pools, a full-service spa and world class golf and tennis, is there anything more that you could ask from this premier Hawaii vacation resort?

Here are just a few of the resort features and activities:

• Novelty Pool

Find elegantly landscaped swimming pools with a view of the beautiful surf, 2 hot tubs and if you’re travelling with the kids, they’ll love the swimming pool that features a waterfall and an 80ft waterslide!

• Snorkelling

You can snorkel right at the resort in a sheltered bay or if diving is your thing, or something that you’ve wanted to learn, there are courses available right on the resort. You are guaranteed to experience an underwater paradise.

• Horseback Riding

See the natural beauty of Oahu’s North Shore from the saddle of a horse. Go through beachside trails with a guide who shares the local folklore and teaches you about the indigenous plant life.

• Beach Walks and Hiking

Explore the tide pools or walk through a tropical forest and experience true nature. You can find 12 miles of ocean front trails and seaside paths from the resort where you are sure to find peace and tranquility.

• Golfing

Golf the renowned Arnold Palmer and George Fazio Courses. Both have been given legendary status and have been selected by both the PGA and LPGA for prestigious tournaments. In fact, the ’08 PGA Champion’s Tour, Turtle Bay Championship, will take place on the Arnold Palmer Course.

• Helicopter Tours

Paradise Helicopters is located right on-site at the resort. This is sure to be an unforgettable tour of Oahu. There are 3 different tours available ranging from 20-60 minutes.

• Fine Dining

Enjoy gourmet cuisine prepared by chefs who have a style and skill unique to the islands, you will experience a variety of meals of contemporary island cuisine. From fresh seafood entrees to elaborate buffets, there is something here for everyone to enjoy!

The Turtle Bay Resort is located in a perfect spot on the North Coast putting you close to the beautiful Waimea Falls Park, the Hawaiian Polynesian Cultural Center, beautiful beaches such as, Haleiwa Beach – featuring year round swimming, a quaint town and the 2 mile Sunset Beach. There are fantastic places to surf, the summer months are perfect for everyone, even beginners and in the winter, you can find sheltered areas or you can sit back and watch the pro surfing competitions that take place every year where you can see the surf break at 30 ft! You can even get surfing lessons from the surf school located right on the resort! From December through April, you can watch Humpback Whales from your own veranda! They appear at this time during their annual migration from Alaska. The opportunities found here make for a truly incredible experience.

The one thing to keep in mind when choosing the Turtle Bay Resort is that the location is isolated. You can expect to spend most of your time at the resort unless you are renting a car or want to sign up for outings. At the same time, this aspect is what makes staying here such a unique and wonderful experience. You are away from the hustle and bustle of the typical touristy destinations.

The Turtle Bay Resort offers you unspoiled beaches and a tropical setting to discover the true luxury that Oahu has to offer. For your mind, body and spirit, look no further than this incredible Hawaii vacation resort.

Holiday Travel Insurance - Why You Need It

Holiday Travel Insurance may well be the most important decision you make regarding your vacation. Here’s why.

We have all faced the question, would you like to purchase holiday travel insurance? Many of us, myself included, are thinking well why would I want to spend more money on that? I know that I am travelling on this particular date, my vacation time is booked and there is nothing that is going to stop me.

Let’s think about this…

The thing about travel is that many times, no matter how far ahead we have booked or how well planned, there are many unexpected things that can occur, some may be minor things and some may not. Maybe you’ve experienced setbacks yourself.

Have you ever considered what would happen if;

1) My travel supplier just declared bankruptcy

Considering all the new travel companies that are popping up every day, not all of them are as financially stable as we think. Having trip cancellation travel insurance and trip interruption insurance can protect you and your vacation investment.

2) I’ve become ill and I’m too sick to travel

Many tickets and vacations are non-refundable. If you or another family member suddenly becomes ill, having trip cancellation travel insurance and trip interruption insurance allows you to be fully reimbursed should such a situation occur.

3) You’ve missed your flight connection due to flight delays

There are times (don’t I know it!) that you arrive at your connecting city but your connecting flight is long gone. You may need a hotel and meals for the night, or you’ve booked a cruise but your cruise ship has left, what do you do?! Having travel delay protection will cover the costs relating to your delay.

4) My wallet or purse has just been stolen

Here is a very real fear that most of us don’t like to think about but unfortunately, even in the best of places, theft can occur. Knowing that there are 24 hr emergency services on hand to assist with reporting lost cards and having emergency funds ready to transfer ensures that help is always just a phone call away.

5) Holiday Travel Insurance covers you where your Health Insurance may not

Medical emergencies can occur when you are visiting a foreign destination. Without travel health insurance coverage, you would be responsible for footing the bill, and chances are, it’s not going to be a small amount!

These are just some of the many reasons you may want to consider before declining that offer for holiday travel insurance. If you are booking online as many people are doing these days, take a look for an online travel insurance company that can offer you a solution. Make sure to look for travel insurance comparisons, you will be able to find cheap holiday travel insurance.

Always remember that travelling is one of the best things in the world, but as with all good things, there are always unexpected circumstances that can arise. Holiday travel insurance may be one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family. For a small fee and the right insurance travel plan products, you can be rest assured that you are completely covered to fully enjoy that vacation!

Byron Bay, Australia

Byron Bay, Australia

I thought that I would write my blog today about Byron Bay Australia! I have seen a lot of Australia and this place is definitely one of my favourites! It’s an absolutely beautiful, spiritual and amazing little beach town. It’s a must see that no trip to Australia is complete without!

Byron Bay is located on the north coast of New South Wales, about an hour south of the Gold Coast. As soon as you drive in, you can really feel a change of atmosphere to one of pure happiness and relaxation. The town is on a beach front, with quaint streets and sidewalks that are filled with people from all around the world. In this little paradise, life just seems to move at a slower, really laid back pace…even despite the crowd of tourists. The beach has white sands and crystal clear water, perfect for swimming and surfing. A great place to take surfing lessons, I did and it was so much fun! Being a surfing town (the waves here are considered to be World Class Surf!) and the fact that surfers were a large part in the development of Byron Bay, you will find many alternative people who have chosen to migrate there. The amazing combinations of different lifestyles here is truly what makes it so unique! Everything and everyone is welcome. When I was there, which is a few years ago now, there was this hippie named Beautiful that would stand at the entrance to the beach, always with a display of signs on the ground with all sorts of different sayings, and he would welcome you to the beach and tell you that you were beautiful! There are people milling around, sitting in groups playing bongos and guitars generally just enjoying life. You can watch surfers surfing from a cliff top (of course there’s other great views from there as well!) and you can see dolphins swimming there too, right along side the surfers. That was actually my first time seeing dolphins in the wild, what an awesome experience that was! At night, there was a man who had a massive telescope and he’d set it up on the sidewalk, invite you to come up and have a peek, he’d show you the moon and different constellations, it was very cool! The Byron Bay lighthouse, which sits on a hill above Byron still operates and is open for public visits. There’s a walk that you can do to get to there and if you do, you have literally walked to the most eastern point of Australia! From the top of the lighthouse you’ve got a 360 degree view of the town, the surroundings and mountains and you can also spot whales and dolphins from there!

Byron Bay is an absolutely fantastic place to spend a vacation. In the 1960’s and 70’s Byron was a true “hippie city” and to a certain degree, still maintains that image today. It is home to surfers, intellectuals, painters, sculptors, artists and many eccentric people who choose to live life as they see fit. It’s filled with lots of fantastic restaurants that serve some of the best seafood around, has a great nightlife and cool parties, and lots of shopping! Be sure to bring some money so that you can go home with some truly great arts and crafts that can only be found in this one of a kind place!

If you have the opportunity to visit Australia, I hope that I’ve inspired you to take a journey to this amazing little spot called Byron Bay!

Till next time!

Sarah

US Travel to Cuba – A Guide for American travel to Cuba

Are you an American wondering how or if you can legally visit
Cuba? Join the hundreds of thousands of Americans who have
experienced the thrills of visiting this exciting and exotic
destination legally.

Americans can travel to Cuba legally if they are a Cuban
American, politician, journalist or if you have a research
project that is about Cuba. Others including students,
religious groups and humanitarians can apply for a license from
the U.S. Treasury Department Office of Foreign Assets Control
(OFAC).

However, having said this, did you know that…

Between 100 000 and 200 000 Americans visit Cuba every year
while only some 6000 licenses are being issued in a 1-2 year
period! That means there are a lot of Americans who are going
without the government’s permission.

If you are someone who wants to exercise their right to travel
freely, and have been dying to see why the Canadians call this
destination their #1 hot vacation spot; here is a guide that I’ve put
together to help you get that Cuba vacation!

1.There are no travel restrictions for Americans to travel inCuba
and know that as an American, you are completely safe
there. In fact, Cuba has one of the lowest crime rates around
and is the safest country in the Caribbean. You will however,
have to travel to Cuba from Canada or Mexico.

2. You will need a valid passport and a Cuban tourist card to enter
Cuba. The price of a Cuban tourist card is approximately $20
CAD and your passport needs to have been valid for at least a
full 6 months prior to your travel.

3. It is recommended that you also take a copy of your birth
certificate and a valid photo ID. You should also be aware
that with an American passport, it can not be stamped in Cuba;
therefore having these additional identifications can come in
handy in case it is accidentally stamped. I would also
recommend having 2 photocopies of your passport as there are no
American embassies in Cuba, so should you lose your passport,
you may use these copies to exit the country.

4. During the flight to Canada or Mexico, you will be asked to fill
out a declaration form. This will be collected by the customs
officials in that country and from there, you will proceed to
your carrier’s ticket booth where you can pick up your
travel package that contains your Cuban tourist card. You are
now ready to check in for your flight.

5. Arriving in Cuba will be much like any other airport, Cuban
customs will x-ray your carry on baggage, as well as friskingyou.
This is really informal and low key. There are female
security officers to check the females and male security
officers who check the male traveller’s.

6. You may now collect your luggage but make sure to keep your
passport and tourist card handy, as you will have to show them
to another agent before you leave the baggage claim area. They
will check to make sure that you have your tourist card, look at
your passport and ask you if this is your first time visiting
Cuba, how many days you’ll be there for and the name or address
of your hotel (keep that info handy just in case!)

7. Transportation from the airport will have been included with
your travel package, follow everyone else outside and look for
your tour staff who will guide you to your proper bus or taxi
driver.

8. When you return, you’ve got the same steps only in reverse, also
you need to keep $25 American (this is very important!) as you
have to pay a departure tax of this amount when leaving Cuba
airports.

Organizing your US travel to Cuba will be easier than you ever
imagined! Your travel agent should be able to help you
arrange everything you need for your trip. There are also many
companies online that can help you with this as well.

For more information on Cuba US travel, I recommend
that you visit this site.

http://www.cubatravelusa.com/

Destination - Stockholm, Sweden

I am going to write today's blog a little different than our
normal tropical beach destinations articles. Today's blog is
going to be about the place I am visiting right now; Sweden!
For those of you who haven't been, Sweden is an absolutely
beautiful country. No its not tropical by any means, but it is
a beautiful country that I would recommend to anyone.

Currently, I am here visiting Stockholm which is an amazing
place. Stockholm is actually a city which is made up of many
different islands and the majority of the city is on the coast
overlooking the water. There are so many different things you
can do, but if you only do one thing in Stockholm, you
absolutely MUST go visit the Vasa.

What is the Vasa you may ask? Im glad you asked that question.
The Vasa is a 300 year old Warship that because of it's
dynamics, and a king who insisted to have multiple rows of
cannons for protection, sank as soon as it left shore. One big
gust of wind and the ship was belly up instantly.
It was buried for 300 years until it was found, pulled out from
the mud and completely restored. It is an absolutely incredible
experience. The ship is huge and an absolutely gorgeous
archaeological find. There is a short video in the museum that
explains the entire history and show you the amount of work
that the Swedes put into restoring this masterpiece. It is an
experience that is great for the entire family.

I can personally guarentee you that it will be one of the many
highlights of your stay in Sweden.

Until next time!
Jason

Things to do in Oahu Hawaii

Oahu, Hawaii’s 3rd largest island, could easily be considered the heart of Hawaii. With looping mountain trails, to monster waves breaking on the gorgeous golden beaches, to beaches where the turtles are swimming right along with you, down to country stores and discovering the uniqueness of Hawaiian culture, where do you begin?

With limited time and a wealth of things to see and do, here’s a list of things to do in Oahu, that I hope will help you determine what you’d like to put in your schedule!

• Snorkelling in the exquisite Hanauma Bay

The Hanauma Bay Nature Park is actually a State Underwater Park and is a paradise for even the novice of snorkellers! The Bay is the result of the ocean’s breaching and incursion into two volcano craters. In addition to the beautiful swimming and snorkelling opportunities, there are also hiking trails with gorgeous vistas and plenty of picnicking sites.

• Take an Eco Adventure Tour and swim with the Dolphins!

Discover whales, dolphins and sea turtles with nature-tour operators who are filled with knowledge and carry a deep respect for marine animals in their natural habitat. Cruise out to sea in a relaxed sailing atmosphere and view the mountainous shorelines and pristine beaches. This journey is sure to make an adventure of a lifetime!

• No trip is complete without a Hawaii Luau!

The Luau, based on traditional Hawaiian feasts, has become a rite of passage for all tourists! You can expect a flashy show, a huge buffet and a true authentic Hawaiian experience!

• Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at surfing!

Originating as the sport of ancient Hawaiian royalty, you can find lessons right on Waikiki Beach. The surf is great for beginners and kids as young as eight can try! If that’s too much adventure for you and you’re there in the winter time, why not head on up to the north shore and watch the pros compete on the giant surf!

• Climb Diamond Head Volcano

The most famous volcanic crater in the world, Diamond Head is located on the southeast coast of Waikiki. It is an easy to moderate hike that is well worth the effort when you see the spectacular view of the entire west side of the island from Waikiki to Koki Head.

• Visit the Hawaii Polynesian Cultural Center

An opportunity to visit seven Polynesian Islands in one afternoon! It gives you a chance to learn and interact with the people of Hawaii, Samoa, Maori New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, the Marquesas and Tonga. You’ll also see the world-famous and largest night show, Horizons: Where the Sea Meets the Sky.

• And of course we have Waikiki Beach!

The place where you can surf, swim and sail by day and dine, dance and party by night! Waikiki is truly legendary and one of the best things that you can do in Oahu. Beyond the gorgeous sand and surf, you can stroll along the flagstone walkway where you see fountains, rock pools, statues and surfboard signs that teach you a bit about its history! Waikiki is the world’s most famous and most filmed beach. It actually consists of nine individually named beaches which stretch along two miles of shoreline. Do beware, it is also one of the most crowded!

While this is only a very small portion of things to do in Oahu, I hope that this has helped you to discover a little bit about what this truly magnificent island has to offer!