Cabot Trail: Canada
Chapmans Peak Drive: South Africa
Dingle Peninsula: Ireland
Going to the sun road: Montana
Gotthard Pass: Switzerland
Karakorum Highway: Pakistan
Mountain Road, Snowdonia: Wales
Milford Road: New Zealand
Millau Bridge: France
Mountain Road Central: Peru
Let us know about your road trips…
As environmental awareness is increasing in the world today, a growing number of people are choosing alternative ways of living and working in order to proect our planet. If we put together our daily efforts towards saving the environment, there is a possibility for change in the future and a “greener way of living”. These changes can be applied to all aspects of human activity – including travelling!
Since globalisation and cheaper flights has allowed more people to travel, there are even more planes in the sky, airports being built and passengers circulating the world. Therefore it is important to be aware of how this effects flora and fauna and what we can do to help reduce damage. Browse through the following travel suggestions and apply the ones that concern you in order to make a difference in the long term well-being of planet Earth!
Stylish trip for the sunny afternoons… don’t you think it’s about time you made the most of the summer? Keep ‘cool ‘ in the coming moths! We’ve got a little advice to help you on your way.
Summer is the season of socializing, its time to get out the garden furniture and invite your loved ones over for a good old fashioned garden party. Pop open the champagne and sizzle some sausages on the barbeque. Garden decorations are a must have this summer. Hang some bunting and put up a hammock… simple. Your garden has been transformed into a magical retreat. A cozy gathering with friends is the perfect start to summer to wash away those winter blues.
Destination Ice Cream.What better way to cool off in summer than sinking your teeth into a creamy ice cream! We think this seasons must taste is Carte D’ors Rum and raisin, new for 2010. Check out their official website for tips on making your own or just head to the shops and grab yourself a tub and two spoons. Destination heaven!
Get stuck into a good book. Whether is a coffee break stop off or an afternoon in the garden, what better way to relax than getting lost in land of literature. This summer pick up ‘Super Sad True Love Story’, a book sure to rock the boat and conjure up a few emotions. Gary Shteyngart’s new novel is a fantastic read for the holidays. Head to your nearest park, lay down your tartan blanket and retreat to the shade of a willow tree. Who know you might just experience an ‘Alice in Wonderland’ moment…
Destination Beautiful.The weather is fine and the clothes are coming off! Its time to get out those legs and get the sun kissed look everyone desires. Treat yourself to a ‘cooling and hydrating wrap’ and start the summer with a radiant glow. This spa treatment is this seasons latest trend, not only will the soothing plant mixture cool you off but the treatment has been designed to settle and revitalize any sun burnt skin. You can relax this summer knowing that you look fantastic!
This seasons must have summer purchase has to be the ‘Rucksack’. Form countryside walks to urban chic the rucksack is the fashion item of the summer! Whether you’re heading to the beach or for a walk around the town, pack your sack and enjoy your summer in style.
Stay tuned for more ways to keep ‘cool’ this summer. From where to party to want to drink we’ve got your summer plans covered…
What you need…Of course before you leave there are a few required items that are essential to keeping safe abroad. Holiday insurance will take care of you, your luggage and any cancelations. A valid passport is necessary in order to travel, we recommend you make copies of all the travelers’ documents and leave these copies safe at home. It’s also important you take any necessary visas need for travel and you have a valid European health insurance card. If you planning on driving
whilst abroad make sure you are coved with your insure and take all the correct and compulsory documents.
Invest in an up to date guide book. With on hand advice you’ll know where to visit, find all the sights and won’t have to worry about getting lost! Guide books are a great addition when exploring a new city. If you do fancy escaping the tourist traps and heading off the beaten track they provide great advice on what to do, where to go and most importantly how to keep safe.
It’s important that you look after your belongings on the street. Relaxed and admiring your surroundings can often mean taking your eye off the ball. Keep safe by using a secure bag that is kept close to you at all times. Expensive items such a phones, cameras, and trip money should be tucked away zipped up and not in view or reach in unfamiliar environments. Always make sure when traveling from A to B your use licensed taxis. When embarking on train journeys keep your luggage close and in sight, important documents need to be on your person at all times.
Keeping your money safe whilst abroad is obviously very import. We offer security with our apartment rentals. Lock what you don’t need away in your accommodations safe. Inquire before arriving if a safe will be provided with your apartment, if there is no additional security with your lodgings then we advise you don’t bring large amounts of cash. Travelers cheques are an option, as they are refundable is lost or stolen. Only carry around a small amounts of cash, estimate what you’ll require for the day, this will also help you budget your holiday spending.
It’s important when traveling the world that you respect the local customs, do some research before you travel. If your hoping to experience a new culture than you need to consider your dress and the difference in laws. Taking photographs in some cultures can often be seen as offensive. Our advice is to learn a little about the customs before you arrive to ensure a trouble free and SAFE vacation.
Carry an emergency contact number at all time… And stay Safe.
The summer has arrived! Many of you will be thinking of, or will already be planning your summer Holiday. We’ve got some great offers up for grabs on our vacation apartments around the world, now we have taken it upon ourselves to find the most cost effective and efficient way to get you to your chosen destination. Booking a budget flight can often feel like investing in the stock exchange. It’s about choosing the right day and the right time to invest in your annual vacation. Holidaymakers are now avoiding the package deal bundles and are choosing independent travel. Does this sound like you? You’ve come to the right place and its time to embrace your free time and well deserved freedom!
We have devised a list for three of the best budget airlines and found all the information you need to know, making sure you get then best deal possible. From baggage costs to packing a lunch box, we want your vacation to get off to a smooth start…
Wizzair offers an online booking service with a step by step guide. Once the flight has been booked and paid for you will be provided with a booking code that will confirm your reservation (no ticket will be provided) make a note of this code and save your confirmation email, print this out if you want a tangible receipt. The confirmation will include your flight time, flight number and booking cost. The booking fee will be broken down so you can see how much you have paid for each provided service. There will then be the option to acquire and other service you feel necessary. A booking fee will be added to the final cost, you can use Visa, Visa Electron, MasterCard, Diners Club and Switch/Solo debit and credit cards to make your payments. You must also be over the age of 18 to make reservations with this airline.
Checking in…
It starts two hours before you flight is scheduled to depart, you must be checked in 40 minutes before your flight leaves, this is when check in closes. Once you are in the departures lounge further information will be provided; your gate number and time of departure will be disclosed at information points.
Baggage allowance.
The maximum dimensions for free hand luggage is 55×40x20cm, weighing in at 10kgs. Each passenger is allowed a maximum of six item of luggage, costing 15 EUR / 13 GBP, per person, per bag, per flight. Additional cost and booking fees are stated on their website.
If you have and special requirements then check out the Wizzair website, which will also provide you with a list of services available on bored. You can also book through a travel agent or on the telephone.
The best way to book you flight with this budget airline is at RyanAir.com, the web discounts don’t apply when you book via different routes such as a reservations centre. The cheapest fares are usually available if you plan on flying off peak. This period is usually classed after 12.00 Monday to 12.00 Thursday and after 12.00 on a Saturday.
Prices tend to ascend the closer you get to your departure date so its best to purchase you flight at least 14 day before you plan to vacate. Once booked, you will be provided with confirmation via email; this will act as a receipt and proof of reservation. Check out the website to see additional charges, taxes and booking fees, the website will also provide you with advice on how to pay.
Baggage allowance & checking in…
The baggage allowance can be booked as either 15 kilos or 20 kilos when making reservations. Each passenger is entitled to check in two bags with the dimensions of no more than 81cms (height), 119cms (width) and 119cms (depth). It the bags weigh is over this allowance then you will be charged an additional 20 pounds per kilo (we recommend at this price you weigh your luggage before hand to avoid extra costs). One item of hand luggage is allowed per person weighing in at 20kg per item. Again you need to check your luggage in at least 40 minuets before the flight departs and provide all the necessary required documents.
The website allows you to brows through the various offers and destinations have a look to see if RyanAir is offering discounts to your destination, it could be the right budget airline for you!
Booking a flight with Easyjet is similar to booking cheap flights with the above two budget airlines. Once you have book your flight with easy jet online it is important that you provide the airline with details of documentation. You are required to supply information of photographic ID (such as you passport or driving license), you will then need to show the same ID on arrival to the airport at the check in desk. There is also the opportunity to check in online, with means you can jump the queue and avoid the airport rush. If you decide to do so it is also important to arrive at the airport at least 25 minuets before the flights scheduled departure time. They have the motto ‘if you’re late, we won’t wait’, so it’s important to stick to the quoted guidelines and ensure a stress free beginning to your vacation.
Baggage
You will be allowed one standard item of hand luggage sized at a maximum of 56×45x25cm. Eight bags may be checked in with this airline each weighing 20kg. Do not exceed these weight restrictions as you will be charged and additional fee for each kilo (the cost of extra weight is extortionate!).
Don’t forget you’re…Passport or any other required visas and your lunch (budget airlines do not provide you with this luxury). Remember you are guaranteed cheaper flights if you book in advance, the closer to the departure day the more likely it is that the ticket costs will increase. Make sure you weigh your luggage if you exceed the limit the airlines are likely to charge you a small fortune.
We’ve done all the planning for you. Book your flight and enjoy your stress free vacation holidaymakers…
Everyone wants to here a friendly voice from time to time. Whether you’re travelling the world or taking a mini break here’s a couple of tips to help with correspondence troubles when you visit all the world…
The phone card was once the front runner in the communications popularity contest. They are still a cheap and reliable way to make international calls. If you’re travelling technology free (i.e. without a laptop or aboard friendly mobile) then get your hands on one of these and head to the nearest callbox. The phone card should be easy to get hold of. You will find them for sale at your destinations local shops or available for purchase online. Before you head off be sure to have a look at the different providers and best offers. Here’s a handy tip…when your calling from a call box dial ‘00’, then the counties code followed by your loved ones number.
now have various applications that means EVERYONE knows what you’re doing ALL of the time…
Here’s a short list of just a few of the services designed to keep you interacting with your friends from wherever you may be in the world; Twitter, Foresquare, Skype, WiFi, mobile broadband, WWAN and Facebook touch upon the long list of mobile applications now offered. It’s important to check your tariff before you embark on your adventure as many service plans will up the costs of making calls, sending messages and using mobile applications when you leave the country. Charges may also occur if you plan on receiving calls. Be sure to look into your plan and make sure your contract has reasonable rates. If you’re not the lucky owner of a blackberry or iphone or just so happen not to be a technical wiz then don’t panic! Communication can still be simple. A great way to stay connected with home if you plan on long term travelling is to pack an unlocked phone. Most phone stores will provide this service. Once you reach your destination invest in a sim card and get set up on a pay as you go contract. It’s important to make sure to get the best deal so ask around to see which the best is for you. Here’s a handy tip… you need a ‘TriBand’ phone if you plan on roaming the world. This type of phone will work in different countries, when your keeping in touch remember + = 00.
is another affordable way to make and receive calls… This is a fantastic way to keep in touch if you have access to broadband or are blessed with the application on your mobile phone. Contact with other skype users is completely free, so if you have a strong internet connection at your destination then set up an accounts a get chatting for free… there is no excuse for poor correspondence. Once you’ve set up your account remember your account keep your user name and password safe. You can also top up you account with credit allowing you to make cheep calls to mobiles and landlines. This software application is great for visual communication. Video calls are available alongside an instant messaging service, perfect for business or pleasure. Here’s a handy tip…if you’re on Facebook check out the new video chat application, similar to skype it allows you to chat to friends for free.
the virtual postcard Set up an account. Hotmail and Gmail are a couple of options.
Why not show off! Blogging is taking over the internet so jump on the band wagon and tell your stories. Websites such as ‘getjealous.com’ and ‘lost planet’, allow it’s users to add friends, upload pictures and brag to all their peers. It’s the perfect way to communicate with the masses and stay connected on the road.
There is no better way to send your best wishes home and please your loved ones with tales on a postcard. Stick to tradition!
Enjoy your travels, hope to hear from you soon.
We’re here to make sure you holiday gets off to a smooth start. From packing all the necessities to leaving your house and pets in safe hands, here’s a little advice on how to get started. Just print off this list and getting ticking…
Let’s begin with your travel documents.
Do you have…Travel insurance and Health insurance? These documents are important and easily forgotten. Don’t fear if not, many companies offer great deals and discounts online. You and your valuables security is only a click away.
Passport
(Other forms of identification)
Any necessary visas
Flight tickets
International driving license, if you plan to hire a car
Managing your money
Travelers cheques, Foreign currency, Credit/Debit card
To there get there efficiently you will need… The hotel information and directions to your location.
Useful additions…
Map, Guide book, Language guide
Things to put in your handbag…
Keys, phone, watch, wallet/purse
Useful extras…
Pen , Note book, Pre booked event tickets
Snacks for the plane and things to keep you going… Take the healthy option with some fruit and nuts to nibble on. A good way to keep the sugar levels in order is a piece of chocolate. Crisps and sandwiches are a tasty, quick and easy idea for the flight. Make sure you drink plenty of water (tea bags are also a nice idea for that emergency good morning pick me up).
On most flights you are allowed two bags, one suitcase and then one item of hand luggage. You are permitted to take the hand luggage with you on the flight, so this is where you should store all your important paperwork listed above.
To find your luggage at your chosen destination you will need Luggage tags displaying your identification and Luggage locks (make sure you keep your keys safe).
Pack things to keep you entertained…
Book, magazines, pack of cards, games, cd’s, ipod (or latest gadget), laptop with any necessary cables, camera, with batteries, charger and memory card or films
Things to add to the comfort on the journey…
Earplugs, blanket, pillow
Extras to consider…
Torch, extra batteries, travel plugs, binoculars, travel alarm, travel iron, clothes brush, handy tools such as the bottle opener, address book, umbrella
Clothes checklist
(Advice for different climates and destinations, only pack what YOU need!)
Basics…
Socks, underwear, pajamas
T-shirts, shirts, blouse, jumpers
Dresses, Shorts, skirts and trousers
Jackets, rain coat, shoes
Extras
Sunhat, sunglasses, swimming costume, beach towel, tie, belt, jewelry (accessories)
Don’t forget you make-up bag! (Or washbag for all you well groomed men.)
Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash
Comb and brush
Shaver or razor (and shaving cream)
Aftershave or perfume, deodorant
Shampoo, conditioner, showergel, soap
Feminine hygiene products
Cotton pubs, ball, pad or whichever form of cotton wool you prefer
Keep your hair tame on the trip by bringing along… Hairdryer, straighteners, rollers, tongs, clips, bobbles, and the list goes on…
Keep your health in tact with…
Personal prescriptions, First aid kit,Glasses, contact lenses (with its cleaning solution). Take the usual suspects such as aspirin and parasetamol, tablets for diarrhea, indigestion and laxatives. Stay protected with insect repellant (plugs), suncream and aftersun. Another inconvenience to bear in mind is motion sickness which can easily be fixed with a few travel sickness tablets.
Before you leave the house and begin this years exciting annual vacation complete the ‘safe home’ checklist. Here’s a little reminder of what should be done to ensure you arrive back stress free from your blissful vacation… first of all make sure all the windows are shut tight and locked, there is also the important task of locking the door! (Perhaps leave your keys with a neighbor or friend and let them know you’ll be away for a while having fun in the sun). If you have pets and plants make sure there is someone to feed and water them (perhaps the neighbor). If you’re away for a while then stop weekly deliveries to the house such as newspapers and milk (perhaps the neighbor can pick up your post). Turn off any unnecessary electrical equipment and book your taxi. The holiday can now begin…
Enjoy you stress free vacation. Isn’t it nice knowing everything is organized and in order. Now its time to sit back and relax.
Why settle for just one destination when you can spend the night in 30 different countries! An InterRail pass allows you unlimited travel for one month with flexibility that is sure to please even the most adventurous nomad.
This is a great way to travel if you fancy an action packed trip. Different countries with different cultures the pass allows you to discover Europe at your own pace, with your own route and with whoever you want. Once you picked your destinations and chosen the cities you fancy stopping off at make sure you know what you want to do, where you want to go and what you want to see. It’s a fantastic opportunity to border hop in a short space of time so with a small amount preparation and research good times will be embraced and opportunities won be missed!
Plan your rout! Decide before you leave what you want to see and what you want to do, use the packing guide with equipment advice, be aware of border checks and bag searches and keep your valuables on you at all times (perhaps in fashionable bum-bag form). Once you find the right location, find the right accommodation. We offer budget apartment in Europe ideal for groups with self catering facilities. Your Global Pass has free 48 hour express delivery so all aboard!
The prices vary depending on the length of you trip. You have five options ranging between 159-899 Euros. Exclusive to all European residents the options for tickets are Flexi or Continuous. The duration of a continuous pass lasts 15 or 22 day or the period of 1 month, it’s your choice how long your adventure lasts! The flexi pass allows you longer stop offs at each destination, you can travel 5 days within 10 day or 10 within 20. If this time you just plan on visiting and travelling around the one country you can buy the one country pass, know as the EuroDomino or National Express Pass. With a choice between 27 different counties it’s the perfect way to see and experience your chosen destination. The pass is ideal for those of you who are under the age of 26. Large discounts are offered when you buy a second class youth pass. The InterRail Global Pass is also available to adults and youths for 1st and 2nd class purchase. If you’re a family planning to embark on this exciting adventure children under the age of four can travel for free and children under the age of 12 are allowed 50% off their ticket choice. There’s even a Global Senior Pass so it’s never too late to put on that backpack and experience Europe like never before.
Here’s a list of counties you can visit. Take your pick from…Austria, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, FYR Macedonia, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey.
You’ll find maps, detailed destination information, and the latest offers on the official InterRailing website… Enjoy your trip and share your stories with us.
Upon arriving in Amsterdam you can’t notice the Dutch like bikes! It is said that there are nearly 1 000 000 bikes for 700 000 Amsterdammers. It makes it logical as Amsterdam is quite car-unfriendly city with its narrow streets with single-lane one-way traffic only, numerous canals and a scanty number of parking spaces at incredibly high prices. Thus, just about everyone rides a bike in Amsterdam!
Men and women no matter their age, profession, social status or whether conditions happily bike along the streets of Amsterdam. It seems like Amsterdammers start pedalling even before they start walking. Stop just for 5 minutes on any corner and you can easily see formally dressed bicyclist heading to the office building, informally dressed ones walking their dogs by bike, bringing home groceries, flowers, furniture, children, girlfriends or boyfriends.
Obviously, there is no better way to discover Amsterdam than by bike! Are you ready? Have a look at the Bikecity’s website to find a perfect bike for you, get some useful tips from About.com’s article and try the itinerary offered by Amsterdam.info
From Visit All the World we are glad to offer you our splendid and comfortable apartments conveniently located in the centre of the city, assuring you a fantastic holiday at a more than competitive price. Come to enjoy Amsterdam in only the best conditions!
Are you interested? Visit the Amsterdam page on our website!