Preparing For Your Trip To Europe
by Terry Miller
Europe is one of the most heavily traveled continents for people coming from North America. There are so many famous countries that offer excitement, culture, learning experiences, and an overall enjoyable time. Given the potential great memories, it would be a shame to miss any of it due to lack of
helpful information or preparation. So after choosing the country within Europe that you would like to visit, or if you plan to visit multiple countries on your vacation, you should be aware of the following tips.
Preparing for Your European Experience Getting into Europe is not as easy as it used to be, so you'll want to come prepared. You must have a passport to enter any country. Consequently if you are traveling through several of nations on the same trip, it is wise to have your passport and/or visa ready at all times to show to the various customs offices. You also need to be aware in advance of items and products you can and cannot bring into other countries as you travel from one to another. Be prepared to leave those at your hotel and avoid the risk of confiscation.
Learning a Few Foreign Phrases
There are 320 mixed languages spoken throughout Europe, so try to learn a few key phrases based on the primary languages of your destination nations. The majority of Europeans speak several languages in addition to their mother tongue, so it should suffice to learn just a bit of the major ones. A high
percentage of people also speak at least a little English as well, depending to where you travel.
International Driving Considerations
When renting a car, be aware of different national laws. Some such as Ireland, Cyprus, and parts of England require driving on the left hand side of the road, so be cautious if you plan to drive. (If you are uncomfortable with that arrangement and fear making a critical driving error on the wrong side of the road, you might alternatively consider taking a taxi or bus instead of driving yourself.) Seatbelts are required everywhere you travel in Europe and for
everyone in the car, so don't be negligent. Additionally, the speed limits change and can be much higher than those in the US. Drive safely and move to the far side of the road if you plan to motor at a slower pace. More to it than Just Plugging it In Finally, you need to know that electrical currents differ in
Europe from that the United States. There are special adapters you can purchase before your departure so that you can plug in your hair dryer, iron, and other electrical necessities you may bring on the trip. If you do not have an adapter, ask your hotel concierge to provide one since the power will ruin anything using electricity without using an appropriate adapter.
Planning your trip thoroughly is a good idea. If you do this, you will minimize your hassles as you travel throughout these beautiful countries. With the finer details taken care of prior to departure, your vacation in Europe will be truly a positive experience you will never forget.
About The Author: For practical travel location information,
please visit http://www.travel- vacation- spots.com, a popular
site providing insights concerning travel vacation ideas, such
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http://www.travel- vacation- spots.com/ las-vegas- travel-packages. shtml
and many more recommendations for your next great time away!
Beyond Venice - The Attractions of Italy's Veneto Region
by Robert Driscoll
Most visitors to the Veneto region of Italy seldom venture beyond its capital, Venice. This is not surprising as "Venezia" is one of the great destinations of the world. Its unique aspects are legendary. One cannot help be enchanted by its singular beauty, its past and present glory, and the sense of fragility it provokes. But for those who venture beyond Venice, a special region awaits! In fact, it's an art and gastronomy
knock-out. There's an impressive variety of landscapes, through zones of intensive viticulture, past some of the world's most
magnificent villas. Italy's most famous dessert, "tiramisù," was invented in the Veneto. And the word "ciao," as a salutation to
say hello or good-bye, was coined here, too. The Veneto's cities are distinct and beautiful. Verona is the home of Romeo and Juliet; Italy's most famous opera festival; stunning architecture; and some of the most intensive wine production in the country. Bardolino, Valpolicella, Amarone, Bianco di Custoza, and Soave are but a few of the varieties produced near Verona. The province of Verona is also known for
its superb olive oil.
The city of Vicenza is most noted as the laboratory of Andrea Palladio (1505-80), perhaps the most important architect of the last half millennium. His work is everywhere in and around Vicenza. The province of Vicenza is also full of good wine and is the home of Asiago cheese and can boast delicious cherries, white asparagus, and grappa as well as noteworthy ceramics.
The largest city in the region, Padova ("Padua" in English) is the Veneto's economic center and is the seat of one of Italy's foremost universities. Padova is full of art treasures (including the incomparable Scrovegni Chapel – also known as the Arena Chapel -- with its 38 frescoes by Giotto) and can boast one of the most magnificent food markets in all of Italy. In the province of Padova are the Colli Euganei, green hills filled with mineral water sources and home to the charming village of Arquà Petrarca.
Veneto can boast four UNESCO World Heritage cultural sites: * the city of Venice and its Lagoon * the city of Vicenza and the Palladian villas of the Veneto * the Botanical Garden of Padova * the city of Verona.
Like Giotto's frescoes in Assisi, those in Padova exerted a powerful influence on and marked a turning point in Western art, introducing a naturalism into painting that departed from the formality of Byzantine art of the preceding 1,000 years. Indeed, Giotto is regarded as the father of Western art.
Just on the outskirts of Vicenza is La Rotonda, Palladio's most famous villa, featuring his trademark design inspired by the Roman temples. The interior lacks grand décor, but the exterior is the focus, having inspired Christopher Wren's English country estates, Jefferson's Monticello, and the work of a slew of lesser-known architects designing U.S. state capitols and Southern antebellum homes. It was begun around 1566, but Palladio did not live to see its completion.
Just down the way from La Rotonda is Villa Valmarana ai Nani. It was built by Palladio disciple Mattoni in the 17th century,
and it is noteworthy for its series of frescoes by Giambattista Tiepolo that, taken together, create an elaborate mythological world. In the separate guest house are the frescoes depicting an idealized country life by Tiepolo's son, Giandomenico.
On your next trip to Venice it's worth considering some of the Veneto's attractions. You're not likely to be disappointed.
About The Author: Robert Driscoll is the founder of Venture
Out, a tour company specializing in high-end, escorted vacations
for gay travelers and friends. Venture Out's offerings include
Italy, other European countries, and destinations on other
continents. Visit their web site at http://www.venture- out.com
Egypt, A True Wonder of The World
by Nil Aykut
7 Wonders of the World… You may not name all of them but probably you know that most of them were destroyed by earthquake, fire, or other causes since Herodotus formulated his list in mid 5th century BC. Today you may only see 2 monuments: the remains of the Temple of Artemis at Ephesus in Turkey and the Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt, the only one fully standing. Although Egypt has many to offer still thousands of tourists
visit Egypt every year to see the Great Pyramid. In 2001 a corporation started an initiative to choose the New 7 Wonders of the World. The results were announced in 2007 and one more monument in the Middle East was selected as one of the new wonders: Petra in Jordan. Since then Jordan became a booming tourism destination. Although Egypt was not happy with the results still Petra's selection increased the tourist flow to
the region, and both Jordan and Egypt benefited from this traffic. The frequency and the short duration of the flights between these countries motivate North American travelers to visit both countries once they take the long flight to the Middle East. You'll need at most 13 days to tour Egypt and Jordan; you can cover the major highlights and return home with mystical memories of the new and old wonders of the world.
It is suggested to begin with Cairo, the bustling city of North Africa. Don't plan to begin touring on your arrival day, try to rest, recover from jet lag and keep your energy for the next day. Next morning why don't you start with the famous Giza Pyramids? If you have booked a private tour in Egypt, probably you'll meet your guide at your hotel and you'll drive to Giza Plateau, located in the west bank of Nile, facing Cairo. Cheops,
Chepren and Mycerinus are the three pyramids you will see in this plateau and their guardian Sphinx, the lion body human head mythical statue. If you are planning to enter the Great Pyramid you'll need to arrive the gate early as the number of visitors is limited with 150. After Pyramids, visit the second highlight, the world famous Egyptian Museum. The museum that houses the largest Egyptian collection with more than 250.000 antiques
extending over the past 5000 years. The famous Tut-Ankh-Amon collection is one of the most splendid parts of the museum. In the museum you may purchase additional ticket to visit the Mummy Room (cameras not allowed).
Your second day should begin early with a flight to Aswan or Luxor to join the Nile Cruise. You may not be really a "cruise type" but in Egypt, Nile cruise is the best way to visit Luxor, Aswan and other sights in between. If you begin from Aswan probably you'll want to take the expensive excursion to Abu Simbel. It is a half day excursion but a must-see sight in Egypt. Flights to Abu Simbel fly early morning from Aswan and
return by noon allowing ample time for cruise guests to board their ship. In Abu Simbel you'll see the magnificent temples of Ramses II and Nefertiti.
Then you can join your Nile cruise ship where you'll spend you next 5 days. Most cruise excursions will take you to Aswan Dam, to the Philae Temple and to a short sail by felluca's, traditional sail boats to view the Agha Khan Mausoleum which is currently closed to visitors. On the way to Luxor ship will stop in Kom Ombo and Edfu. The Kom Ombo Temple was built in Ptolemaic Roman era for the worship of god Haroeris and Sobek, the
crocodile god. Edfu Temple, located in the west bank of Nile, is dedicated to god Horus, the falcon god. This temple is the second largest temple after Karnak and its distinctive character comes from its huge structure that blends Greek and Pharaonic architecture. At the end of 3rd day on boat you will arrive Luxor, the greatest open air museum in the world.
Luxor tours begin with the Valley of Kings and Queens. Some of the most important tombs in the valley are the tombs of Tut-Ankh-Amon, Ramses III, Set I (Kings), and Nefertiti (Queen). Here you can also see the colossi of Memnon, Necropolis of Thebes and the temple of Queen Hatshepsut, established by the only woman who ruled Egypt. Three terraces of the temple are impressive. Then you'll cross the river to the eastern bank of
Nile to see the temple of Karnak and Luxor. Luxor temple was built for the worship of god Amon Ra. Karnak temples includes several temples and it begins with the spectacular avenue of Rams. Next morning you'll disembark and may spend the day in Luxor to visit the Luxor museum or you can return Cairo via flight or train.
For a complete Cairo experience you must visit the Khan Khalili Bazaar, the most famous bazaar of Egypt built in 14th century. The market has a medieval atmosphere and is famous for its unusual, typically oriental souvenirs, and handmade crafts.
At the end of your 7 night in Egypt you've already covered the most important highlights. On 8th day you can stay in Cairo to visit Memphis and Sakkara or you can take a daily tour to Alexandria, second biggest city and the largest port of Egypt. The city was built by the order of Alexander the Great in 332 B.C and became the capital city of his reign in Egypt. Here you should visit the Pompay Pillar, Catacomb, Montazah Garden, National Museum and the Alexandria Library. You may stay a few more days in Cairo to visit the old Cairo, mosques, citadel etc. But if you have limited time I suggest you to take the early flight next day to Amman, Jordan.
Amman, the modern and ancient capital of Jordan, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the World. Although Amman is the first step to visit Petra, Dead Sea or Wadi Rum still it is advised to begin your journey from Amman where you can visit the ancient Citadel, the Archaeological Museum and the Roman Amphitheatre.
Next day you can drive along the King's Highway, the ancient Silk Road, to Madaba that is famous with its Byzantine mosaics. In the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George you can see the earliest surviving original map of the Holy land in a mosaic floor dating to 560 A.D. Ten kilometres west of Madaba is the holly district of Mount Nebo, known as the site of the tomb of Moses. Here you can enjoy the spectacular view across the Jordan
Valley and the Dead Sea, even the spires of the churches of Jerusalem. Leaving Mount Nebo behind you are heading to Dead Sea, to the lowest point on earth, and the world's richest source of mineral salts. It's called the Dead Sea because nothing lives in it. Its salt content is six times that of most
oceans. Plants or fish can not survive in the salty water but humans can float in the Dead Sea which makes swimming here a truly unforgettable experience. After this unique experience you are ready to head to Petra, but before Petra you have to visit Kerak, the city famous with the12th century hilltop fortress including galleries, towers, chapels, and ramparts that vividly recall the age of the Crusaders. Arrive Petra and enjoy a deep
sleep as you'll need your energy for the Indiana Jones adventure of the next day.
Red Rose City Petra, built by the Nabeteans who settled Jordan 2000 years ago, impresses travelers from all over the world with its desert rock carved monumental tombs, palaces, temples and the treasury. You'll need to hike the 1.2 km canyon to reach the magnificent treasury. At the end of the fissure passage widens and you catch a glimpse of the astonishing monument that dominates Petra, El Khazneh (The Treasury). The rock face in
which it is carved is sheltered from winds and rain so the Khazneh is known as the best preserved of all the monuments. On the way back you can enjoy the horse ride for a complete Petra adventure.
It is the 12th day of your journey, knowing you are approaching the end, you may prefer to slow down little bit. If so, I'd suggest you to head to sunny Aqaba, the red sea resort area where you can enjoy the sunshine and sea on your last day. But before going to Aqaba, the last must-see is the Wadi Rum, also known as Valley of the Moon; tourists explore the area in 4 X 4 vehicles. The landscape of Wadi Rum, with its immensity, colour and awe-inspiring shapes, creates an almost supernatural atmosphere. It was the setting for the film Lawrence of Arabia as most of our guests would recall. Passing by the Bedouin tents you will drive south to Aqaba, the red sea resort area where you can lie on the beach, close your eyes and spend a few moments to memorize the unforgettable mystical experiences you had in 12 days. The next day your final journey will be to Amman to board
your flight back home.
About The Author: Nil Aykut is the Marketing Manager of
Anatolia Travels. Anatolia Travels offer private and escorted
tours to Turkey, Greece Egypt, Jordan & Morocco. More
information at http://www.anatolia travels.com
One of my favorite places in the world is Amsterdam. I have included a wonderful article by author Robert Gower!
Amsterdam
by Robert Gower
Amsterdam... where do I start!? We it's a long way from the bus hire business where I work in Sydney!! It is definitely a place like no other. We took the train into the city and carted our luggage by hand to our hotel because the taxis at the station where going to charge us $20+ for a measly 1km ride down the road (what a rip off!). As we passed by one of the numerous coffee shops we were greeted by wafts of marijuana and permagrin customers milling about, and just a few doors before our hotel I spotted my first prozzie sitting in a window. It was really strange to see her sitting there decked out in the skimpiest lingere and at only 2 in the afternoon, guess there's no time like the present?! Our hotel wasn't your typical hotel but an old house that was built sometime in the 1600s and converted to a b&b. We had a nice little room that resembled something out of a Dr.Suess book, it leant forward so much you were always walking crosswise..weird! But we soon found out not uncommon for the crooked buildings in Amsterdam.
After checking in we headed out for a sightsee. As we wound our way along narrow cobblestone streets we firstly came upon The Dam, it's a massive square located in the middle of Amsterdam, and where all the people were! There were thousands of people roving about and from all different countries. We followed the crowd and soon came upon the infamous red light district. Down almost every alley there were lines of small doorways adorned with red curtains and thousands of curious eyes flittering from one girl(?) to the next. The rooms were tiny and had just enough space for a small bed and a sink, most girls sat on chairs making eyes at potential customers except for me, no I got `the royal salute,' guess they don't like they're
picture being taken – oops! Besides the numerous prostitutes there are also a slew of `happy herbal, magic mushroom, hash brownie, coffee/marijuana and sex shops.' Let's just say it's a shock to the system at first to see everything out in the open like that but after awhile you start to blend.
Besides the obvious there are a multitude of wonderful things to see and explore there as well, like the Anne Frank House, unfortunately we weren't able to go inside because of the massive cue but it was interesting to see all the same. The Van Gogh museum is also a sight to see, it holds the largest
collection of his paintings in the world. There is also some great shopping to be had there and an assortment of different cuisines to suit everyone's tastes.
Overall, we loved Amsterdam, the freedom of everything was awesome – would we do it again? In a heartbeat!!
About The Author: Rob Gower is a traveller and when in Sydney
works at bus hire company Sydney Minibus Hire -
http://www.minibush iresydney. com.au
