Category → Travel - Leisure
Nip/Tuck & Travel
Looking for an extreme makeover or just a little Nip/Tuck?
Are you aware of the growing trend of medical tourism? If not, consider this, have the vacation adventure of a lifetime in an exotic country, with sun, sea and pristine white beaches. Your personal assistant awaits you at the airport, accompanied by car and driver. You are whisked away to a luxury beach hotel where you are warmly greeted and everything has been made “just right” for your arrival. Sound great so far? Now add world class plastic surgery. Got your interest?
The kicker, the price tag! This “lifestyles of the rich and famous” treatment will run you half the cost of staying home and having just the surgery. Yes, you heard right half the cost of staying home and having just the surgery! Imagine all this and medical treatment or plastic surgery performed by some of most qualified surgeons in the world. No wonder hundreds of thousands of people annually are exploring the advantages of medical tourism.
A well-known Dallas socialite who travels every year to have “a little work done” said “Why in the world would I pay double the money for half the quality?” That’s a good question. She went further adding, “I could never afford the top surgeon in Dallas, but abroad I can, and would I really want to trust my face or body to my second choice because my wallet couldn’t stretch far enough?
Plastic surgery and medical tourism trends continue to grow every year. Medical tourism is expected to be a global $2 billion dollar market by 2012. Countries where medical tourism is being actively promoted include South Africa, India, Malaysia, Philippines Singapore and South America. The latter, South America is known for being home to arguably the best plastic surgeons in the world.
There is no end in sight for the worldwide growth of medical tourism, in fact, Malaysian Airlines recently announced their plans to become the first airline to book medical holidays direct from their travel agents and ticket counters. The giant tour operator Thomas Cook has also announced plans to market medical holidays in the near future.
The worldwide demand for plastic surgery rises every year and as more individuals who desire a “Nip/Tuck” realize they can afford VIP treatment with a top surgeon in another country they’re packing their bags and heading to the airport.
5 Reasons Why Skiing Is Good For You
At last, solid proof for what we’ve long suspected: skiing and snowboarding are good for you. And that’s not just because they’re both great fun and put a smile on your face but because this also improves our health, happiness, red blood cell count and makes us live longer. The evidence has always been there for us to see: the bearded septuagenarian bounding past you for the fifteenth time as you struggle down your first run of the day. Here’s his secret…
Sunlight.
Are you SAD? 1 in 50 people in the UK suffer from seasonal affective disorder which is a type of depression which commonly occurs during the winter months when the days are shorter. You travel to and from work in the dark, are cooped up in the office all day, and levels of serotonin, the brain’s natural mood lifter, drop. SADs can vary from mild winter blues to a more severe form where people can’t function in the winter without treatment. So get treatment and get up on the mountain. You may get depressed about the cost of a beer on the slopes, but that’s not quite the same thing.
Adrenalin.
We’re all just animals, obviously some creationists may disagree, but we need to exercise our fight or flight responses. What safer, or better, way of doing this than searching out the steepest black run you can find, or something just a little bit beyond your normal comfort zone. The adrenalin surge will activate the beta receptors in your nervous system causing your heart to beat faster and increasing air to the lungs. This stimulates the brain, and the endorphin rush of relief when it’s over, will make you feel like a super human after every run. You can then undo the good work done by celebrating with some après ski in the bar afterwards.
Altitude.
Can the news get any better? Just being at altitude can make you thin, fit and desirable – at least the first two are true. A couple of years ago the Austrian Moderate Altitude Study was carried out. Men who were overweight and suffered from high blood pressure and high cholesterol were prescribed walks at an altitude of between 1400m and 2000M. The result? Exercise at altitude improves heart function and circulation, lowers blood pressure and burns calories. There was also an increased number of young red blood cells. So, as far as the theory goes, skiing rocks and just getting off at the top of the Aiguille du Midi (3842m) could add years to your life.
Fresh Air.
Spending time in the great outdoors helps to prevent disease and boost recovery. You can avoid the pretty nasty particles which float around in the urban air. According to some Harvard boffins in their Six Cities 1993 study those people living in the most polluted cities have a 26% greater risk of dying young than those in the cleanest. So give yourself a break from the congested traffic and polluted air and breath in that fresh, crisp, revitalising mountain air.
Learning.
Learning is good for us. Your parents told you so and they were right, but they and you need to heed that advice. Learning new skills later in life can slow down the onset of dementia. Attempting challenges such as learning a foreign language – which you can practice at the bar – or new skills, such as skiing, will reduce the risk of getting age related symptoms and diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
So what are you waiting for? Skiing is not only great fun but also scientifically proven to be good for you. Now that surely is an unbeatable combination.
Guide to road trips
The most popular medium for traveling in recent times has become traveling through air. Whether the distance between destinations is small of long travel by air seems to be the preferred choice among travelers. Since air travel saves a lot of time and hassles that may be encountered when traveling by road. But the time saved has led to a sacrifice in the excitement of journey. Though traveling by land on open roads does take more time yet it is still the best way to enjoy a journey. It gives one an opportunity to relish the sceneries and the landscape views along the roads. In earlier times apart from reaching destinations the journey itself would also be a cause to cherish. In modern days also many people sometimes choose traveling through road instead by air to experience the joy of moving from one place to another.
Many routes throughout America offer opportunities for long rides on the roads. One can enjoy the beauties and the eateries along with the trip. Knowing the road maps while on a by road trip helps a lot, most of the information about the roads are available at the concerned department offices. They traffic offices give a detailed description the name and the number of the road that would begin from a preferred origin and lead to the desired destination. Halting at the hotels by the roadside for night rest gives one a pleasurable experience to remember. When hunger strikes some of the cafes and sub-shops offer the most famous delicacies.
Traveling by road also gives an opportunity to visit the cities that are in between the origin and destination places. Across U.S. there are many well-known tracks that offer opportunity for long route journeys. Almost all the cities in entire America are joined by road and there are well-developed facilities for roadside travelers. Each of the tracks offer unique experiences and the visiting the cities that come across are an added advantage for travelers. Every U.S. highway has its characteristics like a trip along the Las Vegas-Los Angeles offer some of the most glamorous encounters. Coming across opportunities for gambling is almost definite on this route.
While another part of road travel offers some haunting experiences. The cities that come by are those relating to the stories of ghosts and tales about supernatural elements. Some of the landmarks are known for their ghostly stories of The Octagon House and The Washington D.C. It actually requires a great deal of courage to travel through roads passing through those cities.
There are many travel agents and travel planners who organize open road tours. These tour agents being professionals have an experience of organizing safe and hassle free trips. They also provide custom designed packages including sightseeing and many other lucrative facilities. Depending on travel agencies for sorting out most of the plans is also a practical way of going on a road tour. This is especially advisable when one is out with a family. Opportunists for open road touring does not end only by motor vehicles but also other transport options like cycling through the roads is a much popular adventure.
Finding inexpensive lodging in Europe
Many first time travelers make the incorrect assumption that a European vacation is beyond their means, but this is often not the case. One of the biggest costs associated with any vacation, including travel to countries in Europe, is lodging, but it is possible to fund budget accommodations that are clean, safe and centrally located.
One of the secrets to finding affordable budget accommodations when traveling to Europe is to check out the many bed and breakfast hotels that are common in Europe. The average bed and breakfast in Europe is much different than its American counterpart. Whereas many bed and breakfast’s in the United States are luxurious, and expensive destinations, Europeans generally regard bed and breakfast hotels as inexpensive places to stay, and they can be much more affordable than hotels in similar locations.
Most bed and breakfast hotels in European destinations are small, family run hotels. In many cases, the family has their living quarters right on the premises, and the hotel generally provides free breakfast with the price of the room.
There are many places to look for European bed and breakfast hotels, including the Internet, destination travel guides, Internet news groups and travel review web sites. While some of the larger bed and breakfast hotels have their own web sites, many do not, and word of mouth is often the best way to find them.
There are also booking services that will book the bed and breakfast hotel for you for a small fee (usually around 10%). These booking services can be very valuable, especially if you do not speak the local language.
Even if you did not plan ahead, chances are you will still be able to find an affordable bed and breakfast hotel when you arrive. The arrivals area of most European airports has at least one booking desk to help travelers without reservations find affordable accommodations. Just be sure you have a local map handy so you don’t get stuck with a hotel in the middle of nowhere.
There are some important things to keep in mind when booking a bed and breakfast or similar budget accommodations in European destinations. There are important differences in lodgings between Europe and the United States, and first time travelers to Europe are often caught unawares. Below is a list of items to consider when booking lodging for your European vacation.
- Your budget accommodations will likely be clean, but basic. In most cases the surroundings will not be fancy or luxurious, but they will be functional and clean.
- The rooms at a budget hotel or bed and breakfast will probably be small, and closet space may be limited or even non-existent.
- The least expensive rooms will have bathroom and shower facilities located down the hall, while more expensive rooms may have an in room bathroom and tub.
- A room that has only a shower will usually be less costly than one that includes a bathtub as well. If this is an important consideration, be sure to ask about the bathroom facilities when making your reservation.
- Rooms equipped with a double bed are generally less costly than those with twin beds.
- If you are driving, there is almost always an extra charge for parking. Be sure to ask about the parking charge when making your reservation.
- Be sure to buy a good map of the city you will be visiting, and make sure the hotel or bed and breakfast you choose is centrally located. It is often better to choose lodging that it within walking distance of several attractions you will be visiting, even if the room is slightly more expensive. Choosing a centrally located hotel or bed and breakfast will save you both time and money for transportation.
- When booking your lodging, be sure the price you are quoted includes all local taxes and applicable fees.
Tips to make Holiday Travel Easier
The holidays can be quite hectic but they are often a time when people travel to see family and friends or to take a well deserved vacation. Following some basic tips will help ensure you have the best time when you travel during this time of year. Being prepared for things to go wrong is the first step in minimizing the damages and getting on with your holiday travel plans.
Make sure you have all of your tickets and confirmation numbers in a specific place. It is a good idea to make a copy of the information as well as the contact number for your tickets and place it in another location. This way if you lose the originals you will have all the necessary information to take care of it. You should call about a week before your travel dates to make sure your reservation is still active for all modes of transportation and your accommodations.
It is common for flights, trains, and buses to get delayed over the holidays due to security issues, weather, and trying to meet the needs of the volumes of people using such modes of transportation over the holidays. Make sure you have plenty of money, food, drinks, and necessities to get you through these delays. They can range from a couple of hours to a few days. If you will be traveling a long distance you should consider bringing along activities to pass the time, especially if you are traveling with children.
If you take prescription medications you need to make sure you have them clearly labeled. You may get questioned about them if they aren’t in the bottle you picked them up at from the pharmacy. It is a good idea to have a written note from your doctor regarding the medication as well. Makes sure you have enough of it for the entire trip including any delays that may occur.
Lost luggage is one of the biggest problems when people travel, and it compounds during the holidays because of how busy everyone is. While you really can’t prevent your luggage from getting lost, you can do your best to make sure you have all you need in the mean time. Make sure each person traveling in your party has clothing in all of the suitcases instead of making one for each person. This way everyone will have a chance to have some items should a bag or two get lost in the shuffle.
Clearly identify your luggage so that you will be sure to get yours upon reaching your destination. Too many bags look the same and many people are in a hurry when they travel for the holidays. Place a colorful ribbon or colored tape on your bags if you carry the styles and colors that are very popular. If you travel often you should consider some unique looking luggage that will stand out.
Traveling during the holidays needs to be as smooth as possible to ensure you will enjoy your trip. By taking the time to follow these tips you can help make that happen. There are plenty of horror stories out there about people not being able to get to their destination for the holidays or they didn’t have the items they needed upon arriving. Don’t open the door for your holiday vacation to fit into this grim category.
A Tourist Guide To New England
New England is a beautiful part of the USA with both rural and urban areas. The region has a vast history that can be seen and felt within its traditional villages and impressive metropolis areas. The areas beaches are natural and rugged in appearance and the architecture portrays the revolutionary history. New England is comprised of the states of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.
Travelling There
Flying is an easy option as Boston’s Logan International Airport receives flights from all over the world. If you are traveling from within the USA then the rail service would be a suitable option. This runs from Boston along the east coast as well as inland. Driving is also an option as the roads in the area are of good quality and networked.
Accommodation
The region is huge and offers all kinds of accommodation for a range of budgets. This includes hotels, villas, cabins or campsite accommodation. However, the region gets busy in holiday seasons so it is important to pre-book well in advance.
History
The region obtained its name when the English colonised it under the rule of James I. During this time, New England’s income came mainly from the many fishing, farming and timber industries within the area. However, colonizing the region was no east task as the Native American Indians fought and fought for the freedom of the territory up until the American Revolution, where the battle ended and the Americas won.
Sights and Attractions
Boston is a must see if you go to New England. It is a beautiful city with enormous historical appeal. There are also numerous museums and restaurants that makes for a great few days stay. To get a feel for the historic times of New England, drive up the coast and experience the beaches and rural setting. Cape Cod is the location that the tourists tend to head for.
Shopping
The many cosmopolitan cities provide a great choice for the ‘shopaholics’. Boston is riddled with huge air-conditioned malls and shopping centers. If you like browsing through markets then you are in luck as the majority of urban areas in New England have weekly markets.
Dining Options
There are dozens of great restaurants to choose from in New England. The majority of eating establishments are proud of their fresh seafood. Cape Cod has plenty of dining options that offer a unique experience to customers. The region itself is famed for clambakes and bean suppers so they are a must have bite to eat.
Budget Backpacking
One of the least expensive, yet most fulfilling, types of vacations is the camping and backpacking trip. Hiking through the back country at one of the nation’s magnificent national parks, or just wandering around the wilderness of a state park closer to home, can be a great way to commune with nature, and a wonderful way for families to get away and enjoy being together.
One of the things that makes backpacking so attractive to budget minded trailers is the low cost it takes to get started. Little is needed other than a good quality backpack, a top quality tent and maybe a camp stove or similar appliance. Other than that, the main thing to pack is your sense of spirit and adventure. This article provides some valuable tips for the first time backpacker on a budget.
Invest in a good quality hiking map or guide and get to know the area you will be traveling to. Pay careful attention to the notes and precautions and try your best to match the terrain to your level of ability and experience. When estimating the time it will take to hike to your destination, always overestimate.
Be sure to obtain all necessary permits, and reserve the campsite you want, in advance of your trip. It is not unusual for campsites to sell out, particularly in popular national park destinations.
Always check local regulations regarding campfires, smoking, cleanup, etc. to avoid paying fines.
Research the weather patterns of the area and always be prepared for the worst weather. Always pack some sort of rain gear.
Dress appropriately, in layered clothing, no matter what time of year. Be sure to pack clothing that will allow you to be prepared for sudden changes in temperature or weather. It is best to wear breathable materials, such as polypropylene or wool, to allow perspiration and moisture to be wicked away quickly.
Learn how to operate your equipment before you hit the trail. It is important, for instance, to set up your tent at least once or twice at home. Get familiar with how everything goes together. Learn how to operate your camp stove before you leave home.
Determine how much weight you can comfortably carry, and pack appropriately. Many first time backpackers try to take too much gear, and end up unable to carry that gear during the trip. The weight of the backpack should be no more than one quarter of your weight, and it is best to take only what you need.
Pack more food than you think you will need. Hikers and backpackers burn far more calories than the average person, so be sure to eat sufficient amounts of high quality foods while on your journey. The best foods to pack are those that are high in carbohydrates, proteins and fats. These high quality backpacking foods include peanut butter, instant oatmeal, trail mix, pasta and dried fruit.
Learn where the water sources are on the trail and be sure to keep your water bottles filled in case the next source of water is farther away than anticipated. It is important to drink plenty of water when backpacking, even when the weather is cool.
Always cook your evening meal before it gets too dark. Extra food should always be stored in a bag and hung from a tree limb at night to protect it from local wildlife. Raccoons, skunks and bears have learned to look at backpackers, hikers and campers as easy sources of free meals.
Always pack a first aid kit and be prepared with some basic first aid training. Carry a GPS system or satellite phone if you will be traveling far into the back country, and leave a schedule with the local trail ranger and with friends at home.
Relaxing Guided Tours of Ireland
For families interested in traveling to Europe, consider one of the guided tours offered by several outfits that will take
you and show you the best sights and sounds of Ireland. Such vacations are often not very expensive when compared to the
rest of Europe and family members of all ages will enjoy the scenery and attractions.
Most guided tours of Ireland will have you fly into Shannon. This is a small airport on the western side of the island and
it’s close to many attractions you’ll see. Your first stop will be to the village of Adare, famous for its thatched roof
cottages and quaint charm. This is your first stop along the Dingle Peninsula, Ireland’s most beautiful natural area.
You’ll see dramatic mountains, green fields and many archeological sites.
As for your next stop, guided tours of Ireland may take you to some of the sites or to a pub in the Dingle Peninsula. You
may choose to go dolphin-watching at specified places along the Peninsula road. Soak up the beautiful scenery and eat some
of the hearty local dishes. After that, you’ll travel to Killarney and visit the Gap of Dunloe, a four mile gulch carved
out by glaciers.
Guided tours of Ireland would be remiss if they didn’t take you to the infamous Blarney Castle. While much of the castle
is in ruins and it doesn’t have a roof, visitors will be amazed by the ancient architecture and will be given a chance to
kiss the Blarney Stone—a feat which is done while lying on your back. Afterward, you’ll likely go to the picturesque town
of Kinsdale, within County Cork. Visit one of their gourmet restaurants and walk along the cobblestone streets.
The next logical stop for guided tours of Ireland is the town of Cobh, the departure point for many emigrants to the US and
the last port of call for the Titanic.
Visit the local graveyard where many of the Titanic’s passengers are buried. From there, travel to the medieval town of Kilkenny,
famous for its cathedrals and its history of witchcraft.
Often, guided tours of Ireland will then bring you into Dublin where there are numerous sites to see, including the site of
Ireland’s first Parliament and the famous Guinness Brewery. Taste some of Ireland’s finest beer and stay at the Cabra
Castle, complete with a golf course, gardens and beautiful walking paths.
To get the most out of guided tours of Ireland, you’ll continue on to visit Carrick-on-Shannon, a scenic boating haven and
Boyle, the site of some lovely abbey ruins. After touring this area, you’ll likely move on to the County Mayo. In Mayo,
you’ll walk the streets of Westport and see its seashore, dotted with a number of tiny islands. Shop along the traditional
Irish shops and take in the quaint nature of this lovely town.
Guided tours of Ireland rarely miss Galway, the cultural capital of Ireland. Take in some traditional Irish music by
visiting one of the town’s several pubs. After that, you’ll visit the Aran Islands, the place where the famous Irish Aran
sweaters originally came from. These islands will take you back in time as little has changed over the years.
Most guided tours of Ireland will let you see and taste and listen to Ireland at every possible chance. It’s a beautiful
country with lovely people and it will be an experience you’ll never forget.
An Overview of Australia for Travelers
Australia is a very diverse country geographically and a hot spot for tourism. If you are thinking about heading down under, here is some information on Australia.
An Overview of Australia for Travelers
Australia is its own continent, the only country in the world that can say as much. It covers roughly 3 million square miles and is about the size of the continental United States. The capital is Canberra, but Sydney is the biggest city with 4.2 million people. The climate of Australia is extremely dry inland with more temperate conditions along the coast. The population centers are primarily along the coast due to soaring temperatures inland.
Australia was originally inhabited by Aboriginal tribes. In 1770, Captain Cook claimed the land for Great Britain. In 1788, the first colony was established in New South Wales. Most of the colonists were convicted criminals from Great Britain. Gold was discovered soon thereafter and Australia became a destination for immigrants seeking fortune and a new start in life.
On the far northern coast, Australia is home to one of the amazing sites in the world. The great barrier reef is a water enthusiasts dream. With incredible plant life, the reef is world renowned as a diver’s paradise. A watchful eye is advised given the presence of the Great White Shark in the area.
Australia is a Commonwealth. The federal powers are mapped somewhat after those in the United States, but no bill of rights exists. Unlike the U.S., the individual territories retain significant authority over their own affairs.
People in Australia are called “Australians.” The country has a population of just over 20 million, and the population is growing at a rate of 1.1 percent a year. Australians ethnicity is 92 percent European, 6 percent Asian and 2 percent Aboriginal. No religion dominates, but 27 percent of Australians considered themselves Roman Catholics. Life expectancy for males is 78 years while females live to 83 on average. Literacy rates are a surprisingly low 85 percent.
Australia was often considered the forgotten country. Long distance transportation changed that designation. Now it is one of the hottest tourist destinations year in and year out.
