5 Places to Travel This Summer

Counting down the days until your summer holiday? It's easy to daydream, but when it comes to actually choosing where to go, the possibilities can be overwhelming. Outdated and ill-formed guides are no one's friend! Here are the five best places to travel now, this year, in the summer of 2012.

5: Bali, Indonesia

A long-time favorite of neighboring Asian countries, Bali is steadily gaining popularity throughout the world due to its gleaming beaches and bustling commerce. It's the perfect spot for a summer getaway - fun, sand, and shopping all rolled into one - and best of all, thanks to current exchange rates, it won't even come close to breaking the bank.


4: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Everything they say about Rio is true... except it's even better than the stories. Do you want to spend the day under blue skies and white sand beaches? Dance the night away under the city lights? How about seeing it all from a mountaintop cable car? Rio is a city of thrills and adventure, and there's nothing stopping you from claiming a piece as your own. There's no time like the present!


3: Chang Mai, Thailand
While many tourists flock to the flashier cities like Bangkok, the truth is that Chang Mai, Thailand is just as busy - and just as entertaining. Clubs, cafes, and galleries dominate this city of lights, and if you time your holiday right you might even catch some summer festivals like the Chinese Mooncake Celebration. And don't forget to wash down the experience with some Sang Som (Thai rum)!


2: Levi, Finland

Looking for something a little different during your summer holiday? Try Levi, Finland, where the skiing is plentiful and the snow goes on for miles. It doesn't matter if you're an experienced pro or just an eager beginner - they have slopes for everyone's skill set, and cozy resorts waiting for your return with hot cocoa and warm jumpers. Just because the rest of the world is at a beach doesn't mean you have to be, too.


1: London, England

Host of the 2012 Summer Olympics, London is THE place to be this season. The city is putting its best face forward as the world watches, so it's a prime time to descend and take advantage of the fun, the celebration, and the general bustle of a major tourist city. Just be careful - don't have so much fun you don't want to leave!

Thinking of Travelling This Year?

Get inspired with my top 10 suggestions for international travel. These are not your typical travel destinations, not by a long shot! “Escape” doesn’t always have to mean “nap” after all, and “safe” doesn’t ever have to mean “boring”.

10. THE UNITED STATES
No kidding! If budgets are tight don’t ignore the call of the fifty states that surround us. From Washington State, to Washington DC, affordable vacations abound.

9. CANADA
Canada is a wonderful place for the timid to start. Explore Canada by train. The nostalgia of rail travel wrapped up in a glitteringly modern train makes for a memorable journey through North American splendor.

8. MEXICO
I can’t let you off the hook without reminding you that Mexico is a treasure. There is more to this beautiful place than churros and chimineas. Make good use of the bus network, visit the ancient temples, and fall in love with Frida.

7. CHINA
Guided tours abound and will be the most comfortable option for most Americans. These tours, while often a little frenzied, will take their guests to many important locations that might have never considered; with access that might never have been granted or even asked for.

6. ENGLAND
With some reliable rain gear, a backpacker will have access to a tremendous variety of national parks, disarming villages, and (let’s face it) pubs! Away from the larger metropolitan areas, you’ll find pick pocketing to be less of a problem, but constant vigilance is your best carry-on.

5. AUSTRIA
Sound of Music fans will be swallowed up in fond memories, and history buffs will swoon! A friendly nation offering rich foods, confections, and scenery (OMG the scenery!), visitors are also drawn to the salt mines, Ferris wheels, and heart-stopping art collections of this English-friendly gem.

4. EUROPE BY EURRAIL
Love Europe? Can’t decide? Backpackers rejoice in the time-honoured tradition of the Eurrail pass. Travel where you want, when you want from 15 days to 3 months. Visit Stockholm, Madrid and Montenegro if you’ve got the time! Keep your schedule loose and your luggage light!

3. NORWAY
Check out the Hurtigruten cruises along the Coast of Norway. This is a twelve day journey that covers over 1,200 miles of breathtaking fjords. This is a perfect solution for the adventurer who just can’t stomach another train.

2. ICELAND
Exotic, rugged, fierce and friendly, Iceland is a gem! Foodies delight in the exceptional fish and lamb dishes. Adventure seekers need seek no further as guided tours and easy to read maps are rarely out of reach. The cities boast friendly accommodation and the vast expanses of wilderness offer thrilling solitude.

1. GHANNA
Greenbugadventures.com is a great place to start when investigating a safe and ethical way to see Africa while also leaving a legacy of goodness behind. Ghanna, in particular, offers adventures for all tastes. Study up on the taboos for this conservative but friendly nation, and you’ll be rewarded with friendships and memories for the rest of your life.

Planning Your Summer Holidays in America? Check Out My Top Places To Visit.

Many people love to travel in the summer months, because of optimal road conditions and gorgeous weather. There are many wonderful and exciting cities in America that are popular destination hotspots every year.

Orlando, Florida
Of course Florida has Walt Disney World, but there are also many other fun attractions in Orlando to see. Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and an abundance of shopping malls and golf courses, make this city a top summer location.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
The beautiful and tranquil beaches of Martha’s Vineyard provide excellent opportunities for swimming, kayaking, boating, and fishing. The Island has plenty of areas for bicycling and taking in the sights and scenery.

Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minnesota is known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and it does not disappoint. Watersports are extremely popular during the summer months, because of the mild summer temperatures. Some popular lakes are Lake Minnetonka and Lake Calhoun, which offer canoeing and windsurfing.

Miami, Florida
With the magnificent coastline off the Atlantic Ocean, and the vibrant nightlife on South Beach, Miami is a summer playground to many. Designer boutiques and upscale shops offer plenty of options for swimwear and party clothes.

5. South Padre Island, Texas
The warm and inviting gulf waters, boating and fishing make South Padre Island, a popular summer destination. After a day of fishing, some of the restaurants will even cook the fish that you caught!

Destin, Florida
White sandy beaches and world class resorts attract many visitors to this beautiful destination every year. Many people come to Destin, just to lie out on the beach, read a book, and erase their cares away.

Amsterdam, Netherlands
Grabbing a bike and cycling around Amsterdam, is a wonderful way to get around and take in the city. During the summer, the Holland Festival hosts many dance, music and theatre events.

Montreal, Quebec, Canada
There are many outlets in the city that provide ways to discover the culture of Montreal. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Montréal Museum of Archaeology and History, are just a few of many museums in the area.

Nashville, Tennessee
Novelty shops, music themed restaurants, and street performers all line Broadway Avenue in down

Travelling to Europe

Europe is one of the most travelled to destinations in the world, and its beautiful scenery, diversified culture and enjoyable attractions make it the ideal location for a holiday. If you are planning a leisure trip to this engaging part of the world, you may wish to consider the following helpful tips:

Budget

Setting a suitable budget is one of the first aspects to which you must give serious thought. This includes the cost of transportation, food and accommodations. You should also set aside some shopping money, as you will probably want to bring back a few souvenirs from your trip. If you are working with a somewhat limited budget, consider visiting Eastern Europe, where costs are typically lower, or shop for all-inclusive packages. If you are flexible regarding your dates of travel, book your trip at the last minute, as this often results in savings of up to 30 percent or more. You should also determine the exchange rate between your currency and Europe's so that you will have a better idea of the true cost of your holiday.

Getting Organised

Getting and staying organised is probably the most important step you can take toward ensuring your holiday becomes a pleasant and memorable occasion. You can use holiday-planning software, or your own favourite organising system to plan your trip. Care must also be taken to remember things such as your passport and picture ID, which must be up-to-date for foreign travel. If you have health conditions or other medical problems, you may also want to look into travellers insurance.

Safety Considerations

Be immediately suspicious if someone bumps into you at a bus station, railway or airport, as there is a good chance you were targeted by a pickpocket. In addition, be alert if anything is spilled on you, or a stranger makes a point to call your attention to something you supposedly failed to notice. Such actions are often designed to distract you from an attempted theft of your valuables. Be aware of where your belongings are at all times.

Before setting out on a holiday abroad, it is also wise to find out if any inoculations are necessary. It is never fun to get sick while travelling, and it only takes a quick phone call to determine if such shots are needed before leaving on your trip.

Finally, never joke about terrorists or bombs near airport security desks. Numerous individuals have jokingly talked about the "bomb in their luggage" thinking they were being funny. This can lead to a fast end to your holiday if such a statement is ever taken seriously.

A European holiday can be the trip of a lifetime if planned appropriately. Shop around for the best rates, organise yourself ahead of time, and follow the aforementioned tips for a successful and enjoyable experience in Europe.

Best Beaches in the Caribbean

With their pristine sands next to clear turquoise water, beaches in the Caribbean are unequalled for their beauty. Here are the best beaches to make your visit truly memorable.

St. John in the US Virgin Islands is home to Trunk Bay, which has been listed as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by National Geographic. This beach boasts a trail through a coral reef for snorkelling. Amenities include concessions, restrooms, showers, and a lifeguard.

The Baths are one of the most famous of the Caribbean beaches. They are located in the southern part of Virgin Gorda, which is one of the islands in the British Virgin Islands. The beaches have palm trees that add a picturesque quality to the tropical ambiance.

Grand Anse is a beautiful beach in Grenada. This white sandy beach is two miles long and is famous for its serenity. This is the perfect place to get away from it all.

Pink sand awaits you at Harbour Island Bahamas where the clear water is just right for snorkelling. You can also enjoy boating, fishing, or sunbathing. You can rent a golf cart if you want to tour the island.

In Tobago is Englishman’s Bay, which is very beautiful and secluded. You will not find crowds on this beach that is bordered by forests. The calm sea is perfect for a refreshing dip or snorkelling.

St. Barts is a favourite destination for many beach goers. All the beaches are open to the public and one of the best is St. Jean Beach. The waters here are calm, just right for sailing, snorkelling, or swimming. There are many hotels along the beach and places to eat.

Balneario Luquillo in Puerto Rico has coconut trees and a bit of a surf where you can try your hand at body surfing. This beach is great for families as it offers lifeguards, restrooms, concessions, and places for a picnic. One useful feature is a ramp that helps people in wheelchairs get into and enjoy the water.

Travel Safety Comes First

Travelling the world is a great way to experience new cultures, learn about history, and meet new friends! Travel safety is the key to getting the most out of your trip and coming home with memories you’ll never forget as opposed to memories you wish you could forget.

Travel safety starts the moment you get off the plane. Know where you plan to stay and how you will get there before you arrive at your destination. A reputable guidebook is a great place to get tips on hotels and hostels that will fit everyone’s budget (Lonely Planet guidebooks are a favourite for budget travellers). Once you have chosen a place to stay, your next step is to figure out how to get there. Many travellers are overwhelmed in front of the airport by taxi drivers promising the best rates and often recommending places for you to stay. It is always best to ask the driver if he will be using the meter before you get in the cab so you aren’t hit with a surprise “flat rate” fare upon arriving at your destination. When taking public transportation, be wary of crowded tube lines and buses. These are a haven for pick pockets so keep your wallet in a front pocket, and your purse or backpack hanging in front of you with an arm slung over it if possible.

One of the joys of travel is meeting “the locals” and experiencing the culture from the view point of someone who lives there. Making new friends is a great experience, but be wise and selective when starting conversations. There are some dishonourable people out there who are on the lookout for tourists to scam or rip off in ingenious ways. Be suspicious of anyone who offers you a better exchange rate for your money than what the banks are offering, stick with a public currency exchange office or a regulated bank for money exchange. Be careful if someone on the street offers to take you on an excursion or “guide” you to a local spot; instead rely on the desk clerks of your hotel to recommend licensed companies for these types of outings. Lastly, if you would really like to meet some local people who will be genuine in their interest of you, stay away from tourist spots and check out some of the places where locals gather such as churches, college campuses, and parks. Have fun and stay safe!

Things to Consider When Packing For Your Holiday

Going on holiday is an exciting time. To ensure that everyone enjoys the trip fully, it is essential that certain things are packed. With the right supplies and preparations, everyone can spend their time focusing on enjoying the trip and each other. A specific destination may warrant different things to be brought along, but there are always essential set should be packed. The information is listed below.

 

Safety and the Itinerary

Everyone’s safety should be the main priority whenever on holiday. The best way to facilitate this would be through the use of a somewhat detailed itinerary. This will outline the stops along the way, accommodations and a daily schedule that highlights where everyone will be as well as approximate times. Copies of the itinerary should be given to every family member as well as left at home with a trusted neighbour or relative. The itinerary should include appropriate contact phone numbers so that people are able to get in touch in the unfortunate event of an emergency.
Having and itinerary does not necessarily mean that every minute of every day needs to be organised and planned. It simply helps the family to see all of the sights and attractions and stay safe at the same time.


Finances

Depending on the destination, different plans may need to be made in regards to currency. Whether it is in travellers’ cheques, local currency or a credit card, keeping these safe at all times is necessary. A tip would be to split up the money between people. In the event that one person has his belongings stolen, there are still other people in the group that would have a credit card or money. One person or one bag should not have all of the money for the family.


Packing Organisation

By placing belongings in plastic storage bags, many aspects of the trip will be easier. This includes when you need to go through customs or airport security and when unpacking at the hotel room. For toiletries, packing in plastic bags will ensure that a leaking item will not ruin other objects in the suitcase.


With a few essentials, the family is able to have an enjoyable time on holiday. If the right things are packed and everyone is safe, more time can be spent having fun and making memories.