Preparing yourself for Backpacking

December 31, 2009 by Traveling Backpack  
Filed under Backpacking on a Budget

backpacking budget

Backpacking can be confusing, exhausting and possible dangerous. Therefore, preparations need to be made. Hostels usually offer single beds in private rooms, doubles, or dorm rooms. Without constraints or firm schedules, backpackers are completely free.

With only your pack on your back, there are no limits to what you can do or see. Cheap rooms are available in hostels in most cities and towns around the world. Some hostels are huge, providing beds for hundreds; others consist of a single room in a friendly family home.

Many hostels offer a wide range of activities - from city tours to white water-rafting. Essential gear for your trip will include Backpack ,Fast Drying Towel, Walking Shoes, Socks and Underwear, Long Underwear, Pillow Case, Sleeping Bag, Passport, Spy Wallet, Day Pack, Camera . Safeguard your important documents and money - Get one of those thin money belts that fit inside your clothes. That way you can carry your passport and money with you at all times.

Hostels have probably been around for over a thousand years as a low cost place for a traveler to stay for the night. Today, many hostels are not unlike budget hotels where the only significant difference is the price. Almost all hostels offer lockers, either free of charge or for hire so that people staying in dormitories can lock up their valuables.

Hostelling is, in part, the act of traveling and staying in hostels, and is referred to as “backpacking” in many parts of the world. Planning that seems so trivial at home can become complicated when you are in a strange place. Generally, large city hostels are open 24 hours per day, while others may have shorter opening hours. Many hostels in the country are so quiet you can hear your heart beat.



More Fun & Less Expensive Travels - Go To Your Travel Destination Now!

December 30, 2009 by Traveling Backpack  
Filed under Backpacking in Asia

travel tips to asia

Traveling can be a wonderful eye-opener to the world around us. Most people refrain from traveling due to lack of funds. But that should not be a barrier to traveling. With cheap travels, you can travel to many destinations.

Firstly, any traveler would worry about accommodation. Well, there are lots of cheap accommodations. If you are a single traveler, hostels can provide clean and safe accommodations. You may even meet and mingle with people from across the globe. Most hostels in major U.S. cities range from only $20 to $30 a night.

In Europe, Asia, Africa and South America, hostel accommodations are even cheaper. You can even get accommodation for $5 a night or less. Always check the Internet and see what is available in your travel destination. Many hostels even provide online booking, so you can arrive with your lodging already taken care of.

For couples, a cheap or budget hotel can be a great choice. There are many such hotels, motels and bed and breakfasts, located at all your preferred travel destinations. Always remember this travel tip: many of them are on the Internet and can be booked online before you leave home.

Another great travel tip is to use the public transportation system. Most travel destinations in Europe and in the United States and Canada have excellent, fast, reliable and cheap public transportation systems. Public transportation frees you from the hassles of parking the car, keeping it gassed up and learning your way around.

Another important cheap travel tip is to travel light. Trekking around Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia or the Americas does not require a lot of luggage. Take a couple of sturdy and versatile outfits, a good pair of walking shoes and leave the rest at home.

There are a number of strategies to score the best deals on airfare - credit cards to rack up frequent flier miles, using discount airlines, traveling in the off or shoulder season. The strategy that is best for you depends on your individual needs, and on the location you choose.

Also remember to always keep your cash safe and secure. Most seasoned travelers use a hidden money belt to carry passports, plane tickets and the majority of their cash. Using an in room safe is also a good idea. It is best to use credit cards for major purchases and keep a small amount of cash on-hand for incidental purchases.

Cheap travels is possible. You can even travel to the other side of the world on a cheap travel trip and still be able to enjoy your vacation. It is all about taking the time to do some research, focus on your priorities and getting value for money.



Hostels: What They are and Where to Find Them

December 30, 2009 by Traveling Backpack  
Filed under Backpacking in Europe

backpacking europe

Hostels are budget accommodations for travelers. They offer an excellent alternative to the traditional motel or hotel, and they exist in most parts of the world for the traveler who wants to hostel stomp and save tons of cash to travel for longer periods of time.

Usually hostels have several bunk beds in each room. Instead of renting one room to one or two people like hotels do, hostels rent a room to four or more people and may therefore offer a substantial discount. Where a hotel might offer a room for two people at $80 a night or more, a hostel can rent a room to eight people for $10 a night each, and still make as much money as a traditional hotel, sometimes more. The cost of hostels in the U.S. average between $8 and $25 per night. In other countries (depending on where you go) hostels can be as cheap as $2 to $3 per night.

Hostels range from the basics of a room and bath, to huge buildings that include kitchens, internet service, recreation rooms, televisions, gyms, and libraries. Some hostels offer free breakfast and the occasional party or tour. Lockers or deposit boxes are available to store your valuables, but bring your own lock.

When a hostel offers free internet and breakfast you’ll save even more money than just on a place to stay. If a kitchen is available you can cook your own meals instead of going out to eat, which helps tremendously in keeping your money where it belongs - in your pocket.

If you want to meet other travelers and get travel information, hostels are the way to go. Message boards are posted with notes from travelers looking for companions or selling plane and bus tickets. Transportation deals, flyers from other hostels, tour groups, and other useful information are also posted. If you are looking for something to do in the city you are visiting you can ask the staff for suggestions. They are usually very knowledgeable about the area and helpful.

The downside to some hostels are the regulations they have for the visitor. Most hostels require an out of state ID (in the USA) or a passport. Sometimes a bus or plane ticket must be shown to prove that you are traveling, and an extra dollar or two may be charged to rent blankets and a towel. Some travelers prefer to bring their own towel and a “sleep sheet.” This is simply a folded sheet that is sewn together on one side, somewhat like a sleeping bag.

Occasionally chores are assigned to offset a few of the costs of running the hostel, curfews and other rules may affect any party plans that you might have. However, most hostels do not have many rules as they tend to steer independent travelers in other directions.

Hostels are available world-wide in almost every big city and in several small cities. Hostels are especially valuable in expensive countries like the United States, Canada, Europe and Japan.

Do a keyword search for “hostels” in your favorite search engine. You will find several resources that list virtually every hostel in the world. In most cases you can book your hostel in advance online.

Hostels can save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars every time you travel. So the next time you are planning a vacation on a budget be sure to give hostelling some serious consideration.



Travel Tips To European Countries: Czech Republic

December 29, 2009 by Traveling Backpack  
Filed under Backpacking in Europe

travel tips to europe

About the county

Czech Republic is located in Central Europe bordering Poland to the north, Germany to the northwest and west, Austria to the south, and Slovakia to the east. The capital of Czech Republic is Prague which is also the biggest city of Czech Republic and a popular tourist destination. Czech Republic became a member of European Union in May, 2004. Czech Republic was earlier a part of Czechoslovakia which was dissolved in January, 1993 and was split into what is now called Czech and Slovak Republics. Brno, Ostrava, Plze?, Olomouc, , ?eské Bud?jovice, Zlín, Hradec Králové, Ústí nad Labem, Pardubice and Karlovy Vary are the other important cities of Czech Republic. Czech Republic is divided into two parts based on geographical and cultural classification. They are Bohemia and Moravia. Bohemian cities and towns are popular for their spas and wine vineyards. It is also home to many castles which are open for visitors. One of the other tourism attractions is the availability of hundreds of miles of marked trails for hiking, cycling and skiing.

Population & Languages

The population of Czech Republic is roughly 10.2 million and the official language being spoken is Czech.

Electricity

The voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. The type of plug used is Round pin plug and receptacle with male grounding pin

Geographic Location

It is located in Central Europe bordering Poland to the north, Germany to the northwest and west, Austria to the south, and Slovakia to the east. It is basically a landlocked country strategically located on some of the most important land routes in Europe.

Climate

The climate of Czech Republic can be termed as Temperate with hot summers and cold overcast winters. It also gets snow. Most of the rain comes down in summer. Due to different altitudes the variation of temperatures is diverse. The temperatures are relatively low at high altitudes and more precipitation. The temperatures average only -0.4°C at high altitude areas whereas the temperatures can average as high as 10°C in low altitude areas.

Local Customs

Dressing should be conservative and casual except at formal dinners or good hotels or restaurants. Tipping is usually 5 to 10 percent in restaurant, hotels and taxis.

Attractions

The Castle District (Hradèany) – It has some of the best churches and museums. It also has some beautiful gardens, fortifications and state apartments also.

St Vitus Cathedral – It is located in the Castle District, the prominent feature of this cathedral is the spires which soar high in the sky. It is also country’s largest church with great architecture.

Charles Bridge (Karluv Most) – This is one of the most popular tourist spots of the city and should not be missed.

Old Town Square (Starom?stské Námestí) – It is the most vibrant square of Prague with many historical structures. It also hosts various markets every year like yearly Christmas market.

The Jewish Museum – It is the largest Jewish Museum in Central Europe with a vast collection of Judaic art works.

Vyšehrad – Is a great hill fort built on a rock above the river.

Travel

By Air – The national airline of Czech Republic is Czech Airlines. There are many other small and popular international airlines operating from Czech Republic. The major airport is Prague Ruzyne International Airport (PRG). The airport is located approximately 10 miles north west of Prague.

By Rail – The country is part of the extensive network of trains connecting the European cities. If you are coming from Western Europe the most convenient connections are via Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Zurich to Prague.

Duty Free Items

1. 800 cigarettes or 400 cigarillos or 200 cigars or 1kg tobacco for EU countries.

2. 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco for Non-EU countries.

3. 10 liter of spirits with alcohol content over 22%, or 20 liter of alcoholic beverages with alcohol volume less than 22%, or 90 liter of wine or 60 liter of sparkling wine, or 110 liter of beer for EU countries.

4. 1 liter spirits or 2 liter wine for Non-EU countries.

5. 50g perfume or 250ml eau de toilette

6. Food, fruits, medications and flowers for personal use

7. Gifts up to €175

Prohibited Items

Un-canned goods, meat or dairy products, Narcotics, firearms, ammunition, weapons, eggs, plants, endangered species, fireworks and alcoholic beverages that contain more than sixty per cent alcohol.



Travel Guide to Backpacking

December 27, 2009 by Traveling Backpack  
Filed under General

backpack

British Columbia - Many hostels now have a website where you can book a room. People from all walks of life and every corner of the world stay in hostels. Backpacking isnt complicated. In fact, its simplicity is what makes it so attractive.

Backpackers tend to travel for longer periods than the typical tourist. Youth Hostels provide the perfect way to get to know a country at low cost. Hostels have probably been around for over a thousand years as a low cost place for a traveller to stay for the night.

Sample the locale - Visit local restaurants and bars. They are much cheaper and you can try the traditional specialities and even meet the locals. Tip of the day -Always carry your student or youth card because you may be able to get a discount. Some hostels are huge, providing beds for hundreds; others consist of a single room in a friendly family home.

Expand your horizons - Taking excursions away from your original plan is part of what makes backpacking fun. Hostelling is, in part, the act of travelling and staying in hostels, and is referred to as “backpacking” in many parts of the world. Almost all hostels offer lockers, either free of charge or for hire so that people staying in dormitories can lock up their valuables.

Paris - Many hostels in the country are so quiet you can hear your heart beat. Generally, large city hostels are open 24 hours per day, while others may have shorter opening hours. Common identification used to stay in hostels includes passports, photo drivers licenses and state or country identity cards.

The majority of hostels around the world are independently owned and many of these have their own bars and restaurants.

Experiencing different cultures, overcoming language barriers, and making new friends (locals and other travellers) are all part of the adventure of backpacking and staying in hostels and cheap hotels.

With only your pack on your back, there are no limits to what you can do or see. As the evening rolls on, you may want to sit out into the night with your new friends. However, be aware that many hostels have curfews.

A hostel is an excellent cheap form of accommodation. Most hostels offer private rooms and dormitories. Private rooms are usually singles, twins or doubles and some properties also offer triples. Hostels have probably been around for over a thousand years as a low cost place for a traveller to stay for the night.

In all hostels, although the custom is to remain as quiet as possible at night, you should expect a small amount of noise from your fellow hostel occupants. Some hostels are huge, providing beds for hundreds; others consist of a single room in a friendly family home. Sample the locale - Visit local restaurants and bars. They are much cheaper and you can try the traditional specialities and even meet the locals.

A useful tip - Many hostels give discounts to students, so you should always keep your student card handy. Many hostels have remained old school and you do need to maintain an open mind when choosing this form of accommodation. Many hostels provide internet access, laundry, and free breakfast.

Hostels are becoming more and more modern. Many hostels provide access for wheelchair users, and specially adapted rooms are becoming more common. The majority of hostels around the world are independently owned and many of these have their own bars and restaurants. Common identification used to stay in hostels includes passports, photo drivers licenses and state or country identity cards.

With only your pack on your back, there are no limits to what you can do or see. Backpacking can be confusing, exhausting and possible dangerous. Therefore, preparations need to be made. Without constraints or firm schedules, backpackers are completely free.

Many hostels now have a website where you can book a room. Many hostels provide self-catering kitchens and most provide meals. Many hostels offer a wide range of activities - from city tours to white water-rafting.

There are hostels in castles, in tepees and in railroad carriages. Expand your horizons - Taking excursions away from your original plan is part of what makes backpacking fun. Hostels have probably been around for over a thousand years as a low cost place for a traveller to stay for the night.

Go to the tourist office. Here you can pickup a free tourist map and ask questions about what to do or what to see. Generally, large city hostels are open 24 hours per day, while others may have shorter opening hours. Many hostels have a self-catering kitchen where you can cook your own meals and some even have their own restaurants, cafe and bars.

Almost all hostels offer lockers, either free of charge or for hire so that people staying in dormitories can lock up their valuables. Many hostels in the country are so quiet you can hear your heart beat. Many hostels have remained old school and you do need to maintain an open mind when choosing this form of accommodation. Many hostels are located in remarkable buildings.

By booking in advance, you save yourself from worrying about your accommodation or hotel room, and can get on with enjoying your vacation. A hostel is an excellent cheap form of accommodation. Backpacking can be confusing, exhausting and possible dangerous. Therefore, preparations need to be made.

You can travel the world backpacking and staying at hostels. It is useful to be able to compare room rates at a number of hostels in your preferred destination. Don’t stand out - Learn about the culture of the country before you visit it, and try not to look too much like a tourist.

There are hostels in castles, in tepees and in railroad carriages. Hostels have probably been around for over a thousand years as a low cost place for a traveller to stay for the night. Many hostels offer a wide range of activities - from city tours to white water-rafting.

The hostel custom is that all guests clean up after themselves. Many hostels in the country are so quiet you can hear your heart beat. Many hostels are located in remarkable buildings.

Hostels are becoming more and more modern. Hostels provide a great way to meet new people and experience new things which is why they appeal to such a diverse range. While most hostels do not impose an age restriction, this is not always the case, particularly in establishments which have a bar on the premises. Common identification used to stay in hostels includes passports, photo drivers licenses and state or country identity cards.

As the evening rolls on, you may want to sit out into the night with your new friends. However, be aware that many hostels have curfews. Many hostels now have a website where you can book a room. Backpacking can be a wonderful experience.

Experiencing different cultures, overcoming language barriers, and making new friends (locals and other travellers) are all part of the adventure of backpacking and staying in hostels and cheap hotels. Backpackers tend to travel for longer periods than the typical tourist. Travel in comfort - Bring a pillow with you for those long bus journeys.

In all hostels, although the custom is to remain as quiet as possible at night, you should expect a small amount of noise from your fellow hostel occupants. Expand your horizons - Taking excursions away from your original plan is part of what makes backpacking fun. Sample the locale - Visit local restaurants and bars. They are much cheaper and you can try the traditional specialities and even meet the locals.

Go to the tourist office. Here you can pickup a free tourist map and ask questions about what to do or what to see. Generally, large city hostels are open 24 hours per day, while others may have shorter opening hours. The majority of hostels around the world are independently owned and many of these have their own bars and restaurants.

Hostels are becoming more and more modern. Many hostels have remained old school and you do need to maintain an open mind when choosing this form of accommodation. Almost all hostels offer lockers, either free of charge or for hire so that people staying in dormitories can lock up their valuables. Many hostels are located in remarkable buildings.



Travel Tips in South East Asia

December 26, 2009 by Traveling Backpack  
Filed under Backpacking in Asia

travel tips to asia

Thailand

Travelling through Thailand is a great experience public transport is great and roads are in excellent condition. A great way to see some of the countryside is to rent a motorbike. When renting a motorbike be sure to check it out thoroughly this is easy enough to say but important points like does the odometer or fuel gauge work these can come in handy later on in the trip, especially if going long distances. The motorbikes in Asia are built a little differently with two brakes a hand brake (front wheel) and the other a foot brake (back wheel). Try to use only the foot brake when travelling fast as using the hand brake will send you flying as it only applies pressure to the front wheel. Another common mistake is when going uphill shifting down gear while gassing the engine this tends to result in a front wheelie and more often than not an accident.

China

China is extremely diverse and the Chinese lead a completely different way of life to the West making it a great experience to travel too. When travelling in China, the roads are excellent as are some of the trains and tracks. As large distances are involved there is a lot of overnight travel. Sleeper trains and buses are common as the local Chinese like to wake up at their destination.

One great tip I learnt while travelling in China on sleeper transport is never to take the bottom bunk. The reason for this is that on many overnight trains and buses the people like to dispose of their rubbish on the floor of the bus or train. This means that if you are sleeping on the bottom bed you are likely to have rubbish thrown down past you during the trip. This is not that bad to deal with but another past time is eating nuts and spitting out the seed casings on the floor, this along with spitting makes the bottom bunk an interesting experience. Waking up to find a pile of rubbish and spit on the floor by your bed doesn’t exactly help either.

Laos

Laos is an extremely beautiful although still primitive country to visit and local transport from villages is normally done on converted trucks, with benches in the back for customers to sit on. Try to avoid travelling on this mode of transport when coming or passing through fishing villages heading to the more centrally located towns, especially in the mornings. The reason is because the villagers tend to take their produce which is mainly fish, including dried fish to sell in the towns. This can make for a very unpleasant experience as the truck is never really considered to be full and sitting next to baskets of fresh and dried fish which stinks for hours is enough to test the stomach of any person.

Cambodia

When travelling in Cambodia, locals like to take Taxis as they are quicker than the buses and manage to avoid the potholes better. The only problem with this is that what the West considers being a normal five door car with two seats in the front and three in the back is considered in Cambodia to hold seven or sometimes eight people. The Cambodians will fit four in the back and three or sometimes even four in the front. If a taxi holds eight people then there would be four in the back and two in the front passenger’s seat a passenger in the driver’s seat, the driver would then be squashed up to the passenger, leaning against him to hold the wheel with his feet at an angle to reach the pedals. This would be impossible in a manual car but some how it is managed in an automatic. Travelling like this is extremely dangerous and not recommended.

There is a general place where Taxis depart from and they don’t depart till they are full. A way to get around this is to buy two or even three seats, effectively meaning you travel in more comfort and safety as this means there would be less people in the Taxi.

More information on travelling and tours in South East Asia can be found at http://www.xplore-asia.com



The Right Place To Stay In Amsterdam

December 25, 2009 by Traveling Backpack  
Filed under Backpacking in Europe

backpacking europe

However, you will be surprised to know that Amsterdam is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world and boasts one of the most exciting nightlives.

If you happen to find yourself in Amsterdam then the best thing you can do for yourself is to find accommodation as close to the city centre as humanly possible. This is where you will see the best of the city. The problem, however, is that the city is so vast that wherever you stay you will be missing out on something somewhere else in the city. That is the beauty of a city like Amsterdam.

Some of the most popular accommodation places in Amsterdam are the backpackers and small holiday apartments. This is due to the fact that most of the tourists are younger and are therefore traveling on smaller budgets, or more accurately are those who wish to spend their money on having a good time on not on a bed to sleep in at night.

Although this may seem wise, there is no substitute for good night’s sleep if you have been out the whole day and still wish to party. Amsterdam has all the world class accommodation one would come to expect from a world class city. It has all the top hotels in the world as well as a wide variety of self-catering and holiday rental apartments. By being at the centre of Europe, Amsterdam offers more than most other cities.

There is plenty to do in Amsterdam during the day. You can do the typical touristy things like take trips down the canal at dinnertime to see the sunset. This is one of the most beautiful things to do in Amsterdam. There are also so many museums and flower parks to choose from that the choice of what to do during the day will not be an easy one.

It is at night, however, that Amsterdam comes alive and when you see people from all walks of life emerging from the cracks ready for another big night on the town. These are the people who generally stay in the backpackers and lower budget accommodation. So if you want to be a part of this side to Amsterdam then there is no better place to stay than in the backpackers. This is where you will meet some of the most interesting people with different stories. Although most of these people will be students, you will also find older travelers who want to know what it is like to feel young again.

Amsterdam is one of the most underrated cities in the world. If you have not already been there then you should get onto a travel site right now and book your accommodation. It is not as pricey as you may expect, especially with so much budget accommodation available.



3 Steps to Travel Asia Mini Guide

December 25, 2009 by Traveling Backpack  
Filed under Backpacking in Asia

travel tips to asia

I travel quiet extensively between many countries, typically business International travel. I thought I would share some travel tips, I have encountered, as we are going through some interesting times. I hope to save the traveler some time and headaches, as each country, or airport for that matter is changing security measures in many different ways.

Now , I typically go on International Travel , so I experience changes between countries. When taking any domestic flights, I even experience different security measures implemented within the same country, but at different airports. So time travel can be challenging, and I hope these simple steps can save you from a bit of frustration, understanding, everything is focused on passenger safety right now as 1st priority.

Step 1. In the Beginning :

From many years of International Travel, I found it best to book my own ticket online. This allowed a far better price. American Express Travel offered a nice insurance coverage as well.

Now, I have switched back, and use my original travel agent in Los Angeles for all World Travel. He has access to far greater information than I could get online. The reason is simple, I can use my cell phone, direct call from Hong Kong, have him check or make any latest Airline Travel changes on his PC, confirm connecting flights, delays, etc., and even make real time changes, plus all travel services.

You may think the cost of a international cell phone call is expensive, but actually not for information , time saved, and general safety. I am on a 1st name basis, he understands clearly any questions in under a minute, and done in a few brief minutes. So, possibly a $6.00 call, compared to a bottle of Aspirin at $5.00, your choice.

Now, sounds the same, but here is the trick, he receives so much feedback on different flights, airports, extended security time in different countries, I may have missed a connecting flight in many cases if I did not know this before hand. It is not all about Discount Travel any more.

For example typically your check in for International Travel is 2 hours in advance. I check in 4 hours early, and then have leisure time after customs, check in bags, etc. Also travel light, have a carry on with one extra shirt, small things in case your bag gets delayed, this is now more sensitive, and can happen, consider some simple needs to get you by for a day.

Step 2: Know Your Connecting Flights :Make sure you understand all connecting flights prior final destination point. Here is what can happen, first stay with the same airline company, and the same plane, since probably just a flight crew change, and refueling, . That means the Jet is already there, verses pending another incoming Jet, with possible unforeseen delays. Avoid changing Airlines for any connecting flights if at all possible. Greatest chance for delays, and missed connecting flights.

Example ; I depart from LAX for International Travel, with a stop over in Narita, Japan, which is a very common route .

Today, if they tell me it is only a 1 hour stop over at Narita, I get very concerned, as when you arrive, you are in transit, but are required, and routed back through a full security line, which may not make that 1 hour stop over, and you miss the connecting flight.

Usually you will have 2 hour lay over. Now your agent should be aware of recent changes, tightening of security checks, and may help you book a longer , say 4 hour lay over, 2 for the added security check, alone, for International Travel. Now that sounds painful, but if you miss the connecting flight, you may have to spend the night, a 15 hour delay.

I hope this makes sense, its already happened to me, and you are under tight security spending the night, not allowed in the city since considered a transit passenger, and have not actually entered the country formally.

Step 2: How to Fly: Well, sounds odd, but simply what class to fly in. When on a business trip, like most, take the Business Class on International Travel if allowed. The reason for this, is not the extra food, I usually eat very light while flying , however do work while flying with my Laptop, need a connection for a battery charge, and in some cases there are internet connections in addition for a fee. This offers a larger space to spread out my work, books, papers, etc.

Flying on vacation, I am over 6 foot, so the thought of an economy class seat, no knee space is painful. However, most airlines have improved, I now have a much more comfortable seat, leg room, and typically get the isle seat, or by emergency exit when possible. One simple statistic to remember; if a jet was to go down, the back of the plane has the best chance for survival, just something to consider.

Step 3: Travel Destination Safe: First off, take an airline that is well known, good history record, and follows FAA regulations. This sounds so basic we tend to take this for granted, as if standard practice for all, but not true in many cases, there are many new startups, or foreign companies that tend to cut corners to make profit.

Why would I mention this simple advise, well I experienced a near fatal crash with my wife, who was very scared to fly, and to date will not fly. We took a very large twin turbo prop, on a simple one way 45 minute domestic flight. Perfect day, blue skies, no clouds, flight was full with business people, a variety of travelers retuning home in the big city. Note, Turbo props usually level off at 20,000 feet, Jets, 35,000 feet or more with calm air allowing a smoother ride.

The pilot in his own language, which I can understand, stated there was a brief stop over in another city, lots of mountains, and wind. This was never mentioned, nor written on the ticket ? Briefly, he took us head on into a typhoon, nearly crashed due to shear wind conditions, well, that is all I am going to state, I think you get the message.

Point made is this, fly with someone who follows FAA regulations, invests into maintenance requirements, and follows guidelines that conform to safety requirements, especially passengers. This sounds simple, but once out of the USA, not everyone follows these guidelines, so it may save your life. There are airlines out there, real low cost, but I just will not fly with them, as many of my business associates likewise, with extremley bad experiences. Last, the airline I almost crashed in, went out of business in less than 6 months from startup.

I hope these important Tips help give you some inside info on how to safely plan a trip, and avoid unexpected delays, things that may even save your life, especially on long International Travel adventures. Times are changing now for travel everywhere.



Beijing Botanical Garden travel info for your China vacations

December 23, 2009 by Traveling Backpack  
Filed under Backpacking in Asia

travel tips to asia

This article is about the China vacations and you can find some useful information in it if you are planning your China vacations now.

Beijing Botanical Garden is a very good choice for your China vacations.

Office hours: 7:00 - 17:00 (Outdoor Gardens), 8:30 - 16:30 (Wofosi temple), 8:30 - 16:30 (Cao’s Memorial), 8:30 - 16:30 (Conservatory).

Ticket price: 5 rmb for the entrance of the Beijing Botanical Garden (you can get 50% off if you can show them your student ID), 5 rmb for Wofosi temple, 10 rmb for the Cao’s Memorial, 50 rmb for the Conservatory (50% off for the student), 5 rmb for the battery bicycle.

To get here:

(1). You can take the city bus (Line 331, 634, 696, Yuntong 112 ) to the bus station named “Wofosi Temple” or “Beijing Zhiwuyuan”. Line 360, 318, 714, 698 city bus to the bus station named “Zhiwuyuan”.

(2). Take the Line 1 subway to the “Pingguoyuan” station, then transfer to the Line 318 city bus. (info for your China vacations and travel)

(3). Take the Line 2 subway to the “Xizhimen” station, then transfer to the Line 634 city bus (from the D exit of the subway).

(4). From the Beijing West Railway Station: Take the Line 374 or 437 city bus to the “Gongzhufen” station, then transfer to the Line 698 city bus.

Some tips for you:

(1). If you are planning to visit the Beijing Botanical Garden in the morning, you’d better leave your home in the early morning no matter you drive your car or take the bus. You will probably meet the traffic jam if you leave your home at 9 am or 10 am.

 

(2). To visit the Beijing Botanical Garden at 3 pm or 4 pm is not a bad choice. The garden is still very beautiful at this time and it will not be very crowded like the  morning. The traffic of Beijing is also in a better condition during this period of time.(info for your China vacations and tours)

(3). The Beijing Botanical Garden is very big but there are no good restaurants in it. You can bring your own food here if you want. (like chocolate, cookie, etc)

(4). In my point of view, the most attractive places of this botanical garden is: China rose garden, music fountain, Cherry Valley. The Tropical Conservatory is very beautiful too, but you will need to pay an extra 50 rmb for it.

About the Tropical Conservatory in the Beijing Botanical Garden:

The Tropical Conservatory was located in the center of Beijing Botanical Garden. It started on March 28, 1998 and was open to public on January 1, 2000. It was ranked as one of the Ten Buildings of Beijing in the 1990s, and with an area of 9,800 square meters, it stands as the largest exhibition conservatory in Asia.(info for your China vacations and China trip) It also boasts the country’s advanced facilities. The conservatory is divided into four display areas, including the tropical rainforest area, the cacti and succulents area, the orchids, bromeliads & carnivorous plant garden and the four-season garden. Totally more than 3100 taxa of tropical and subtropical plants grow in these areas, which makes the conservatory an important site for people to know more about plant science and nature, and for scientists and researchers to conserve plant resources and conduct research.

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Flights - Staying Dry in Thailand

December 20, 2009 by Traveling Backpack  
Filed under Backpacking in Asia

backpacking asia

For a taste of Asian culture, many western tourists and backpackers choose to visit Thailand during their trips, in order to enjoy the Buddhist temples, spicy foodstuffs and crystal clear coastal waters.

With a range of beautiful reefs and picturesque islands, wildlife holidays through dense jungles and national parks and health spas that offer the chance of some much needed relaxation, there’s something for everyone.

Cheap flights to Bangkok are usually the best option for those looking to visit the country. However it is best to shop around for flights, as there are also options to travel to different parts of the country by air.

The coastal town of Phuket is served by an airport, and remains one of the most popular destinations for western tourists.

However it is always best to plan ahead for visits by doing a bit of research, particularly into the unpredictable weather system around the continent of Asia, particularly when it comes to the rainy season – when the country is prone to the annual monsoon.

However there are some parts of the country which are less affected by the weather than others. If you’re visiting a coastal resort such as Phuket during the monsoon season it’s best to stay safe and not embark on boat tours and snorkelling tours during bad weather periods.

It is advised to try and plan your Thai holiday around the rainy season. And whilst flights may prove a little more expensive, you can lessen your chances of running into difficulties during the rainy season – when rainfall can be pretty fierce and frequent.



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