Showing posts with label World Travel Guide. Show all posts
Showing posts with label World Travel Guide. Show all posts

Fly Fearlessly

Apr 16, 2010 | Posted by Chloe Brock
Superman flying fearlessly
You know you’re not Superman because you don’t have those lovely dreamy eyes, and that charming smile, with that gorgeous body, and that disarming voice, and before I get really carried away, the point is, you cannot fly, well at least not with a plane. And every time you consider flying when you move or travel to another state, you get the shivers.

Time and again, it has been said that statistically speaking, it is safer to fly than to drive. But if you still fear flying, there are ways on how you can fly without wrecking your nerves and throwing up every single meal you had the past week.
  • Trusting the industry – Planes are really made to fly, safely. Millions travel around the world across all types of carrier. Engineers build them and certified pilots fly them. There is no “How to make planes for dummies” or “How to fly a plane for dummies” that ordinary people read to make planes and fly them.
  • Breathe – Yes, you actually have to breathe to live and to calm down too. If you’re too afraid that you purposely stop breathing, then don’t blame the plane or the airline industry, you will faint because you stopped breathing properly, and to be fair with them, its not their fault.
  • Relax – This is something that you have to do on your own at your own phase, and no airline food nor crew nor ultra-modern plane can do it for you. Trust that you are in good hands, breathe properly and relax. There is nothing really much different from flying – you’re just sitting there and a professional is doing the flying, he’s just taking you to your destination, that’s all there is to it.
  • Speak out – If it will help calm your nerve, talk to your friend on the seat beside you (not on your mobile phone, it isn’t allowed) or engage in friendly conversation with another passenger. It will take your mind off your anxiety or non-existent worries.
  • Handle your worries – This is a great time to think of nothing – to just lounge around and maybe even watch a movie. Think of a long country drive minus mom and dad in the front seat. Have fun!
  • Visualize – Think of landing safely in the other airport. It probably wouldn’t help if you’d look out the window, so don’t. Imagine pleasant things, not disasters – it’s all in your head – and know that those things, you can completely control. So think of landing safely and pleasant calming things.
Now you don’t need a cape or come from another planet to be able to fly. Move past your fear and enjoy the benefits of flying – less travel time and explore more of the world.

Flying is just the same as any mode of transportation, you get in, have a seat, buckle up and what’s better is they do the driving. You don’t have to do anything or mentally lift the plane up – just listen to the in-flight music, eat the mostly boring inflight food and you’ll be in your destination in no time.

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How To Pack Light

Apr 8, 2010 | Posted by Chloe Brock
I know people who are good with computers, or are highly-skilled dealing with cars, but for me, travelling is probably one of the things I am really good at. Been there, done that, doing it tomorrow – real easy. While most people have the same problem or over-packing stuff trip after trip after trip, packing light though is really important so you can enjoy every single part of your trip – from checking-in at the airport to claiming them upon return home, trips can be made easy and fun by packing light.

There are a few tips you can follow so next time you travel, you can definitely say for real that, hey, I am finally packing light!

When traveling, you should always pack thinking of the things you can do without – and hey, you might realize they’re almost half of the stuff you bring.

Clothing
  • Bring your favorite shirts that you know doesn’t wrinkle easily. Roll them up so they take on less space than just folding them up.
  • For pants. Bring the ones with lighter material and do away with your heavier jeans (the lighter ones will do). If your pants have pockets with buttons or Velcro, they would be better to ‘discourage’ pickpockets.
  • If there isn’t going to be swimming in your list of day to day activities, only one swimsuit will do.
  • A small towel would already suffice because the hotel will provide one for you. Including your favorite toiletries, there are 7-11 stores in almost every corner of the world, so don’t fret if you left that favorite toothpaste or after-splash.
Backpack or Suitcase?
  • While use of either one may be okay and is just a matter of preference (rolling them on on the streets or getting both arms free), it’s how you maximize the bag that makes the difference. For suitcase, choose a smaller suitcase than what you would normally bring – and somehow try to fill it up to two-thirds of the bag only.
  • Front pockets and side pouches are there to help too – you can put stuff bags, first aid kits, earphones or small towels – things that are handy and made easy to reach.
Camera
  • A handy camera that has a long battery life and that needs little charging is best. You don’t need to tag along a charging kit, not bring spare batteries. Remember to bring though a tiny (and very light) memory card or stick.
  • Skip on the hair drier (you can borrow one at your hotel or even at most hostels), a book (leave reading back at home because when you’re traveling, there’s plenty to do), or extra shoes (you can always buy cheap shoes anywhere – don’t expect them to be sturdy though, but just enough to let you go through comfortably in your tour).
It’s on everyone’s task list to pack light every time they travel, but somehow fail miserably and suffer unnecessarily even at times, but a few simple tricks here and there can really help you pack light, and travel happy!

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The Travel Bug Has Bitten

Apr 7, 2010 | Posted by Chloe Brock
travel bug
Maybe all these new surroundings and thoughts about getting work is getting me all stressed out. Maybe I’ve been thinking about it too much. And maybe the sun really just has inspired me to go on a vacation. Or a road trip. That I’m not sure, all I know is I want to just ‘get-away’.

For some refreshing ideas and suggestions on where to go, when to go, and how much money I need, it’s a good thing to know that I have options.
  • Blog sites – Bloggers and avid travelers (like me) share travel stories online. These sites can be as detailed that even includes breakdown of expenses and some even has some trivia about their travel destinations. Candid information is also being shared by the travelers including their interaction and experiences with the locals.
  • Travel directories – Travel websites offer complete details and suggest different itineraries depending on the nature of your tour. From weather information, including packing tips, to currency needs and local holidays – they provide almost all information every traveler needs to know. Links to travel agencies and tour operators may be found – those that specialize in the type of entertainment and activities the place offers.
  • Web search – Just one click can bring you anywhere you want in the world – just looking at all those photos available can really give you a feel (and see) what you can expect. Ratings on hotels, restaurants and resorts are also available. Car rentals contact information, if you want to avail of one, can be seen as well. Sometimes, special promo rates and deals are made available to those who will make their reservation online.
  • Social sites – Facebook and other social sites are being used to share photos and details about their travel adventures. And what’s best is that these tours and destinations are already reviewed by the best critics – your friends. You can contact them directly about every detail of their tour.
  • Special interest websites – If you’re really not sure where to go, then maybe you’re better off to have an adventure – literally. There are special sites dedicated to a particular interest like – ice climbing or flying an ultra-light aircraft. Since you’re undecided by the way, save those beach trip when you’re on the mood for some sun, but now, maybe you can try off something really different.
  • Travel agencies – Travel agents are experts that can help you in deciding where to go, when to go, and how much you need (add to that their mark-up rates of course). They can create a package tour that can really fit what you want out of your vacation – if you know what it is you want. If not, they can suggest the best places where you can travel during that time – spontaneity’s never been this much fun.
So, I got to go and check these sites. In just a few minutes, I may just have made up my mind – just watch out my FB account for new photos.

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Choose How You Fly

Mar 22, 2010 | Posted by Chloe Brock
Singapore Airlines business class cabin
TMZ loves Delta, because Hollywood actors hate Delta – and a good scuffle makes a good TMZ story. And Hollywood actors hate TMZ – but that’s another story.

Fortunately I’ve never had that experience because I’ve been trying to stay away from Delta whenever I fly.

Flying has always been easier for me, and statistics say they’re safer than hitting the road (no pun intended) but not all flights are as pleasant as the other. When I went to London a few months ago, I chose to fly Cathay – I think they provide great service and have the best meals in the sky. A good airline is no understatement. It’s either they have it or not. Starting from booking to picking up your baggage, choosing the right airline for you is an important part of the whole trip.

The last time I took a flight, the experience was nothing out of the ordinary. Check-in, take your seat, get some water and snacks, then tune-in to in-flight entertainment. Something out of the ordinary that I still have to experience is flying with Singapore Airline.

They are known to provide great customer experience that they’re number one because customers are loyal. Add to that the largest seat on air in fine leather and Mahogany trimmings, then you’re really in for a 5-star flight.

Cathay Pacific is my top choice for cabin crew service. Also, even in economy class, you get first class entertainment and enjoy Haagen Dazs ice cream. First class indeed!

For longer flights, maybe it’s best to fly Qatar. Some notable things about a Qatar flight is that they have a spacious legroom – a lot of relief for those long hours. And inflight entertainment for those long dreary hours? Over 150 international movies, 150 international TV programs and more than 50 games and 500 audio CDs to choose from – say goodbye to boredom.

But for inflight entertainment, Emirates is no 2nd choice. For the past 6 years they’ve been awarded consistently for their personal ICE (information, communications and entertainment) digital widescreen for a groundbreaking inflight entertainment provided in each seat. - a technology that passengers really appreciate.

For a more colorful and different experience, go Asiana. They have won several awards for their meal catering – and a fashion show during flights? That I gotta see. Some flights showcase Korea’s culture and history by having a fashion show onboard.

Well, they say it’s about the journey, not the destination – so I’d rather go for a comfy journey anytime, less the missing baggage and rebooking fee. I’m all up for an exciting journey, and flying with a great airline will make for a wonderful and pleasant journey indeed.

Maybe I’ll stick with Cathay, or maybe not. There are really a lot of choices up in the air and with the current economy and costly plane tickets, even economy flights are serving up first class service and features. But if ever you happen to have a flight from hell experience, and get into a scuffle, maybe its best if you’re like Ashton Kutcher and share those tweets.

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Stretch Your Budget On Tours

Mar 18, 2010 | Posted by Chloe Brock
stretch your travel budget
A vacation is also called a ‘get-away’ because you’re supposed to be ‘getting away’ from stress, from problems, and other worries, and all you need to do is relax. You close your eyes and think of your next destination – the white sand beach, the sumptuous buffet and you hear the sound of flowing water, music, and – the cash register. Best if your next vacation will not hurt your savings, but before you pack, let’s check – will it burn a hole in your pocket?

From airfare to tipping, get some tips on what to look for in your next trip and how you can save or stretch that vacation budget.
  • Solo or group tours - A solo tour, whether for ‘soul-searching’ or an adventure, would cost you more than double compared to travelling with a group. When you compare, group rates are attractively cheaper. Travelling by two’s or three’s can even bag you more inclusions for your tour. During your tour, you can also save up on transportation and meal costs.
  • Travel expense - Some airlines charge more than $50 just for extra leg room. If that is not a rip-off then I don’t know what is. Check airlines or cruises for promotional discounts. Group discounts are also offered. Check on other available means of transport. Backpackers save a hefty amount of money but travelling economy, by train, and skipping on all other luxuries.
  • Accommodation - Last minute deals are worth checking. Some hotels cut-off their price to half if you would be booking days before, or a day before. Similar to flights, there are promos available when booking online. Booking through agents would sometimes bag you a better deal than booking directly to your hotel. When booking directly, hotels will quote you based on published rates. Agents however, are given discounts from these published rates. Even if they add mark-up fees, you’d still get to enjoy a discount.
  • Daily expense including food and transportation - A walking tour in your destination spot will not only save you taxi money, but it will also let you appreciate the locals even more. Be sure to have a handy map with you so you don’t end up lost. Tipping varies across countries. While it may be expected to give tips of 10 to 15% in some areas, others would require none (although for exceptional service, you might as well give a tip).
  • Entrance fees - Check on tourist destinations if the entrance fee would be all worth it. If you can cut back 2 out of 10 tourist spots that you are planning to visit, compare all 10 and you’ll see that there would be at least 2 or 3 that you can let go.
You’re sure to have more fun if you’ll be pushing through with your tour hassle-free - no need to phone anyone to send extra money across the border. While it should really cost a considerable amount, it need not cause you and your credit card any trouble.

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The Right Place At The Right Time, Literally

| Posted by Chloe Brock
family travel
Travelling is one of the best and happiest activities one can do, but travelling with an unclear itinerary can be a dilemma (but maybe a happy dilemma at that).

You have the money, you have the time (your boss approved – you’re in luck), but you’re just not quite sure where to go. While it could be better if we can tag along to help you out, maybe we’ll just share some tips to help you out in finding and choosing your next vacation spot.
  • Purpose of your trip – First and foremost, what is this trip all about? A solo soul-searching experience? A gastronomic trip? A shop til you drop escapade? Or just getting away, chilling out and relaxing with nature? Your vacation will only be perfect if your destination would truly fit the purpose of your trip. You wouldn’t want to find yourself right smack in the middle of the glorious Caribbean yet you’re not having fun because what you’re after are thrift shops and night markets. Knowing what you want can land you in exciting Hong Kong for some delightful shopping - but only if your destination is in-sync with your activities in mind.
  • Location – Would you rather have a short travel time to your destination so you can get to enjoy your chosen place immediately, or is your travel time actually a part of your trip? For some, the shortest or nearest destination possible would be perfect while for some, road trips and stopovers are essential for them to have fun. Whether inter-state, out of the country or maybe the other side of the world as a destination is also what you should consider.
  • Rates and fees – For backpackers, budget is not an issue; but if its first-class pampering you’re after, prepare to give your credit card a workout. Even if you feel like you’re ready, it is still better to know whether the destination you are considering is a low-budget place, or a grandiose palatial getaway.
  • Travel buddies – If your friends are not the spontaneous type, save surprises for birthdays. Remember that you wouldn’t be having fun as well if your friends or travel buddies doesn’t have the same vacation plans as you. Ask them for their thoughts about the trip (and save you some confusion as well by letting them decide for you).
  • Research – Search engines can be your one-stop ‘destination’ to find that perfect getaway trip. You can find hotel and destination reviews, packages, and all the information you need to make our trip hassle-free. Some even offer ‘live’ assistance through chat with customer service representatives who can assist you in planning your vacation. These sites can even offer itineraries and photos from real travelers that you can browse through so you’d know what to expect.
Go on now and get yourself ready! Just follow these tips and you’ll be on your way (literally) to a great getaway experience. This is just the beginning of your trip, so don’t fret. Once you have a destination and activities in mind, just have a few handy-dandy tips and you’re sure to have a blast ‘til the end of your trip.

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