From the category archives:

Travel Guides


Birmingham Airport VIP Lounge

by TurkishTripAdvisor on December 13, 2009


You too can relax in VIP style at one of the different VIP Birmingham Airport Lounges available for as little as £18, not need to be a model, movie star or famous football player to relax in one of our lounges!

Offering free snacks, drinks, alcoholic drinks, newspapers, magazines, comfy seats, wifi internet, fax facilities and telephones! What more could you want?

Add together the cost of food, drinks and entertaining yourself during the average visit to an airport whilst waiting for the flight and an airport lounge soon becomes a cost effective option.

How would you rather spend your pre-flight time, in the departure lounge with everybody else or relaxing in a VIP lounge?

Travel Tips At The Airport

by TurkishTripAdvisor on November 21, 2009


Only plane-spotters enjoy going to the airport. For the likes of the rest of us, airports mean nothing but stress and anxiety.And unfortunatley, airports are becoming busier and busier as more people take to the skies. What’s the best way to avoid unnecessary stress when you to go the airport?

See if you can check in online

Our number one tip for saving time at the airport is to check in online, and not at the airport.This will let you bypass all queues associated with check-in desks. It should also allow you to use the bag drop which is normally reserved for business and first passengers.Most airlines now offer this facility, so check before you fly that you’re eligible.

Pack light

The less you take, the less stress you’ll have. For starters, making the trip to the airport with a lot of baggage can be stressful. You’ll likely have to walk some distance to get to your train/taxi/bus, so remember that when you pack.The less you have the easier it will be to get around.

Consider taking hand baggage only

One of the other ways of saving a great deal of time at the airport is by just taking hand luggage. If you do this and check in online, you’ll get through the airport in half the time it would conventionally have taken. Even if you’re taking an international flight, you need only allow one-and-a-half hours. Compare that to the usual route which would take 3 hours.

Splash out on lounge access

Did you think business lounge access was only available for business class passengers? Think again.Just do a Google search for the airport you’re going to and ‘lounge’. You can also buy a subscription package if you’re going to be flying a lot.

The value is in the peace and quiet a lounge gives you - although they also provide free drinks!Best of all, you’ll be away from the stress of the airport.

customized calendar

Do you take a lot of trips abroad? Have a look at our customized calendar which is the only one to contain holiday dates to over two hundred countries!Our product makes it much easier to plan trips, and avoid major holiday when fares can be so much more expensive!

Tips On Finding Boats For Sale

by TurkishTripAdvisor on June 1, 2009


Browsing online is one of the best ways to find new and used boats for sale. The benefit of shopping online is the ability to comparison shop easily by getting an at-a-glance look at prices and stats. Whether you know what you are looking for or are still learning, this is a good way to gather information.

The drawback is that you may find something from another state and need to pay shipping costs. It is wise that you see the actual investment before buying to make sure everything is in order. Some popular websites to start your boats for sale search are www.yachtworld.com, www.boattrader.com, www.boatsdepot.org, www.newboats.com and www.ablboats.com.

Going through a certified yacht broker is a great way to discover both used and new boats that are up for sale. In this way, you will find your dream boat much the same way you would find your dream home; by enlisting the help of professionals who have access to multiple listing services, insider connections and sweet deals that have not been advertised.

The broker will work with you to define your needs and find all the amenities you desire. Brokers can also help you with financing, deal brokering, setting up an inspection, title clearing, procuring docking space and yacht services to ensure a smooth closing and transition to boat ownership. Check out www.yachtcouncil.com for more information on yacht brokers.

In addition to the initial cost of sailing boats comes the fuel cost, which is an important consideration when perusing boats for sale. If you are rich, then this caveat will mean less. For instance, physician Chris Troupe spends $12,000 to fill up his massive $4 million yacht. Burning through 40 to 50 gallons of fuel an hour just while idling, this fill-up will last him about four days on a sailing vacation, he says.

  • A great resource for consumers seeking boats for sale is www.newboats.com.
  • The broker will work with you to define your needs and find all the amenities you desire.
  • Browsing online is one of the best ways to find new and used boats for sale.

Gary Abbamonte drives a more modest, six-person fishing, whale watching and bay cruising boat that burns 7 to 10 gallons of fuel an hour. Even so, that can add up to $400 for an overnight trip. However, there is a silver lining. “Catamarans are lightweight and burn about one-third the fuel as a mono-hull,” says Cory Gracy, VP of Everett’s Sharp Yachts. Owners of sail boats don’t suffer like the powerboat owners and diesel-powered boats consume gas more efficiently as well.

A great resource for consumers seeking boats for sale is www.newboats.com. Here you can read reviews, watch videos and even take a virtual test drive. The site is loaded with manufacturer information, as though you were attending an actual yacht industry showcase. You can browse both new boats and used boats here and learn more about engines, electronics and GPS gear.

There are sections devoted to boat maintenance, insurance, boat buying tips and financing. This site literally has it all! If you don’t find what you’re looking for, then Yacht World (www.yachtworld.com) has hundreds of thousands of boats available for sale.

What To Look For In a Sail Boat?

by TurkishTripAdvisor on June 1, 2009


Any owner of sailboats will tell you that, despite all the work and the cost, there is nothing in the world like a great sail. If you live near a body of water and plenty of sunshine, then sail boats can give you a wonderful way to spend your weekends, away from work stresses, away from nagging chores or home repairs and away from the couch.

When you are out on that deck, taking in the sultry smell of the sea, the blue skies and gazing upon wildlife, you will feel alive and blessed. The serenity of sailing just cannot be found on power boats and many high performance boat owners confess that the smaller sails provide more fun. However, when looking for a sailboat, there are several points to keep in mind.

Length is one consideration when looking for a sailboat to buy. Remember that “size does matter” when it comes to boat prices. This is not just for the boat itself but also for the monthly docking charges at the marina. Of course, if you still want that ultra-long boat but don’t want to pay the fees, then you can always grab a little rowboat and anchor your boat out in the bay.

A small sailboat is better for day trips, sailing in regattas and zipping around. However, if you plan to sail on longer journeys, then you will want to buy a boat that is sturdier and less likely to capsize. If you are plowing through choppy water, you will be more than glad you opted for the longer deck. Also, longer sail boats that range from 25 to 35 feet often include enough living space to travel, relax and take a break from the elements. Of course, you will need a helping hand if you buy a bigger boat so be sure you have a committed partner before making your purchase.

Things to keep in mind:

  • Ensure there are no major scratches, cracks, gashes or gouges to the finish.
  • Look at the material sailboats are made of.
  • Longer sail boats include enough living space to travel and relax.

You will also want to look at the material sailboats are made of. Looks are usually everyone’s first consideration because each material appears rather distinctive. Whether you are buying old or new boats, you want your investment to look presentable when you arrive on the scene. Fiberglass is generally the preferred material for a sailboat or a power boat. Almost all brand new boats are made of fiberglass, as it is resistant to corrosion and long-lasting.

If you are looking at used boats for sale, then make sure there are no major scratches, cracks, gashes or gouges to the finish, particularly below the waterline, as this can be very expensive to repair. Some older sail boats are made out of wood, which is one of the most beautiful looking building materials. Even so, wood can absorb insects, pests, mold, mildew and moisture into its porous surface and must be frequently repainted or treated to upkeep.

The maintenance of a wood boat often exceeds the initial purchase price, so it is not recommended for beginners. Avoid boats made of concrete (too heavy) or steel (rusts easily), if you come across them.

According to Sail Magazine’s “Best Boats of 2009,” the Hunter 50 sailboats offer the best amenities. Most first impressions of the Hunter 50 is that it is “decadent” or “amazing.” With handsome faux-wood window frames, you get that rustic look without all the work.

The spiral staircase is a nice artistic touch, but it is the more practical navy leather swivel captain’s chair, the built-in coffee maker, microwave and large built-in linen storage that make this little number a pleasure to sail. Well, okay, the giant Jacuzzi tub hiding beneath the master double berth is a huge perk too! With so much subterranean room, you could definitely live on this handsome little sailboat!

Practical And Safety Traveling Tips

by TurkishTripAdvisor on May 11, 2009


Whether you are used to traveling domestically or abroad, you must never let your guard down and become too complacent. After all, you are in a foreign area and it often leaves you feeling vulnerable. There is a vast range of unpredicted circumstances that could arise when you are traveling such as theft and robbery. Tourists who are negligent of their belongings often fall prey to these individuals who aim to take advantage of their vulnerability.

Here are some practical tips to ensure a safe travel. While most of them might be quite obvious, a simple reminder won’t hurt:

*Keep a close eye on your luggage at all times. If you have to put them down, make sure that they are close within your reach and they you can see it.

*Never keep any important documents or valuable items away from you. Avoid putting these valuable items inside a bag that can possibly be taken away by some robbers since you are also posing them at risk of being taken away. Items like credit cards or passport must be securely placed in a passport holder or passport wallet. You need to carry them with you at all times.

*If possible, dress simple and appropriately. Wear as little jewelry as possible since they could suggest affluence and trigger potential thieves or pickpockets.

*Never bring all your credit cards with you during travel.

*Vary the time at which you leave your hotel room or apartment. That way, no one can monitor and predict your schedule.

*Examine the safety features of the hotel or apartment you are staying in. Opt for a room near the stairwell. Make sure that the hotel room doors have a peephole and can be opened only through the use of cards.

*Be cautious when riding a cab or public transportation. Keep an eye on your bag and other important belongings.

*If you are driving your own car, park in well-lit areas. Preferably, these areas must have enough people around too.

*If you are traveling for an important business appointment or conference, bring travel alarm clocks to ensure that you wake up on time and never be late for those appointments. When you have trouble waking up early in the morning, choose the type of alarm clock that produces a loud noise.

*Before even leaving for your trip, you need to formulate an emergency plan with members of your family. That way, they’d be informed on what they need to do in case emergencies happen.

*Never divulge any travel plans or personal information with anyone while you are traveling, especially among strangers.

*If you have to take medications, properly label them. Place reminders on the schedule when you must take these medications.

*Whatever you do, never flash your money in public. This will invite notorious pickpockets and robbers.

*Before visiting a specific city or region, do some background research on the city. This will give you a clear idea of the traffic system, the crime rate, and other essential information that will enable you to assess how much safety precaution you need.

You Can Travel The World & How To Learn Speak English Go Hand In Hand

by TurkishTripAdvisor on March 5, 2009


As we see that more and more of us are taking the opportunities that abound to get around and to experience different cultures, we see that the world travel market is a market that is growing more and more on a daily and weekly basis and it is doing so steadily. There are various things that are driving the thirst that we have for travel around the world such as the need to actually go abroad and to practice those new language skills that we have developed in recent years. It is truly an amazing this when we are able to get out of our comfort zones and the environments that we are used to in order to really broaden our perspective on our own lives as well as that for those who are around us.

One of the countries that have benefited the most from the rise in travel is that of England which is the home of the English language and as we see that more and more people are looking to speak English we see that also people are looking to go to England in order to see the very place where the English language originates. The need for speaking English and especially for that of taking English lessons online is something that is rising on an almost weekly basis and we can see that it is to the benefit of those who are able gain a command of the English language as they look to travel to far parts of the world with English being the language that you can be sure that someone somewhere will speak.

In general it does make sense to learn to speak another language and we see that more and more people are taking learn basic language as their main method of getting to grips with the culture, language and mind of people who are different from us in many ways. As the world continues to be a place where we can literally touch each other due to the rise in the level of sophistication of technology and communications, travel will continue to be more and more easy for us to do and the need to speak English will be something that will always be at the forefront of the mind of the avid traveler. Traveling the world for vacation or for professional purposes is truly something that is a great eye opener and as we move on in this technological age we will only end up doing more – for sure.

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Effective Safeguarding Of Your Possessions While On Vacation

by TurkishTripAdvisor on February 5, 2009


During travel, there are lots of essential things to keep your eye on. Indeed, it is your responsibility to safeguard your valuables whenever you go out to ensure that everything is intact as when you left. Due to the unfamiliarity with the new location at which you are traveling to, you are also more exposed to the possibility of being burglarized or losing your valuable possessions.

Therefore, grab yourself any one of these items to keep your valuables safe at all times.

Money Belts

This type of belts is one of the safest means to hiding your money and keeping them safe while on travel. Money belts are used as you would any ordinary belts, however they are made of cloth pouches and are perfectly hidden by your shirt. Therefore, no one would ever suspect that you are using it to hide your money.

Money Clip Wallet

Money clips and wallets securely clips in between both of either metallic or rubber wedges to keep your bills from falling off. This is a good alternative to using a wallet, if you find it too bulky or unfashionable. Money Clip Wallet, have quite flexible use as well because they are not only limited to use for bills but can also hold business cards, credit cards, and many other essential items you need to take with you as you go.

Secret Money Pockets

Most pants are designed to have secret pockets that only you know about or are too tiny to be seen upfront. Therefore, you can use it to hide your money or other valuables. The good thing about secret pockets is that others are unaware of it, so only you can have access to all its contents.

passport holder

This container item is very helpful for everyday use because it doubles as container for some other valuables aside from passport. Basically, this item translates into a travel toolkit that can contain any other essential items you need to bring along. It is handy and convenient to use with its neck strap. Other items you can put in on your passport holder includes boarding pass, maps, ID, coins, pens, bills, credit cards, receipts, and so much more.

More Basic Traveling Tips

When you leave your hotel, always carry enough cash with you.

Try not to dress like a tourist or traveler. When traveling to a foreign location, travelers are the potential target for would-be robbers who try to take advantage of your unfamiliarity of the location.

If possible, never place your valuables in wallets or pouches. Since they are typical containers for money, robbers would mostly focus on these items. If you are to place your valuables in your pants though, never place it in the back pocket.

Make sure you are covered by your medical insurance during your travel abroad.
Aside from your money or credit cards, pay close attention to your luggage and never leave it in unsecured environments.

Before leaving, list down all essential items that you need to bring during your travel. It would also be helpful to bring items that can serve many purpose such as Zippo Lighters or containers.

If you are taking cash with you, bring double the money as your initial budget. This ensures that you have enough cash for emergency cases.

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Hassle-free Trips

by TurkishTripAdvisor on January 5, 2009


Traveling can be one of the most exhilarating experiences as long as you know the right tips and techniques to s\stay\ comfortable. It is important to master the different modes of travel so you can get the best of deals and seats. I learned a lot by traveling both short and long distances and occupying almost every space availablein any type of vehicle. Here are some guidelines on how to stay safe and happy regardless of the current rush or situation.

Plane Guidelines

You may now get airline tickets via the internet. Gazing at my travel alarm clocks, I contacted a few of my friends online then set the date, time and exact seat I wanted on the plane. Scheduling early is one vital thing, but you also have to report to the airport on time or else they might give it to another. I find that the seats facing the lavatory as well as those near the emergency exits are the best since you acquiremore leg room. Always aim for these when making reservations.

Bring the necessary items that will keep your mind off air pockets and airsickness such as a book, mp3 player or your laptop. Doing work on the plane can actually cut time in half, so sometimes I’d just choose to pay more getting larger seats and a big working space in first-class. You may also chooseto get two seats instead to get the space you want. If you’re prone to airsickness, prepare medications, eye shutters and a paper bag.

Car Guidelines

Being in the road for long periods can be very boring and sickening. I was transporting my mantel clocks from one city to the next during Christmas with my kids, so I decided to set up quick rules and laws to keep the trip as safe and fun as possible. Assign roles to your kids and give them small responsibilities over their other siblings. Make the necessary stopovers and give them all they need like food, crayons and diapers.

The secret in traveling with kids is to enjoythe journey and not rush to the destination as quickly as possible. Play games, go sightseeing and sing songs along the way. Make sure you child-proof the vehicle to prevent any damage.

Traveling by Boat

travel alarm clocks are very useful when you’re traveling on water since there are actually people who get disoriented by staying out at sea for more than a couple of hours. Try to find land and set your eyes on it whenever you can to prevent seasickness. If you feel sick by staying in the cabin, stay out on the deck with other people and enjoy the breeze. Bring medications as needed and avoid reading or working on your computer for the meantime. You’ll most likely acclimatize in a few hours or days.

Also choose the foods you eat while traveling at sea. I personally find eating meat to be upsetting for my stomach when I’m traveling so I stick to lighter meals like chewing on carrots and drinking water only. I try to avoid alcohol and smoking altogether when going by boat. Taking a shower also helps get rid of impending headaches and dizziness.

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Travel Smart, Savings And Tips

by TurkishTripAdvisor on October 13, 2008


Most travelers know that some of the best bargains are in the off-season, when poorer weather or the start of school makes vacationers scarce.

So when do you travel to get the best deals? That depends. Peak season varies from region to region. Summer airfares to popular maintain areas, parts of Canada, and Europe can be high. But summertime travel to warm weather destinations…Florida, the Southwest, parts of Mexico, and the Caribbean…can be a bargain. If heat isn’t a big deal to you, why not take advantage of lower costs? Summer in the United States is winter in Australia and the Galapagos Islands (as well as a lot of other places), so travel deals are available. Yet you can see and do many of the same things as in the peak season.

Midweek stays at resorts are often less costly than weekends; but city hotels that cater to business travelers have high rates during the week and bargains on weekends. The best airfares often require a Saturday night stay unless it’s a local hop. You’ll sometimes find better domestic fares in the middle of the week or during off-hours on weekdays (late at night, early in the morning). Weekend flights almost always cost more. Here’s the catch: If you have to take off two days of work in order to get a midweek flight or book a midweek resort stay, and you lose either pay or vacation time, what have really saved? You’ll need to consider those factors as well.

SEASONAL SAVINGS
When it comes to lodging, consider the “shoulder” season..the time between peak and low travel periods. If you book a stay early in shoulder season, you can get a deal and probably still have the benefits of the same weather and opportunities available during peak season.

But sometimes programs are not available in shoulder season. At many guest ranches, for example, families can cut costs in June and September, but there may not be a supervised children’s program or as many children to make friends with. If you have older kids who would be out riding with you anyway, this is an excellent time to visit a guest ranch, as it’s often less children’s program so you could get in adults-only time, the money you save by traveling during the off-season may not make up for that loss.

YEAR-ROUND BARGAINS
Keep in mind that deals can be had at almost any time of year and that bargaining skills are not just for use in foreign marketplaces. At many hotels it’s standard practice to quote callers the highest rate first. Reservationists are often told not to volunteer deals unless specifically asked about them. To get a better deal after a rate is quoted, ask if there’s a better price available. There usually is. If you’ve seen a special deal in a newspaper or flyer, you should mention it. Ask about discounts for group members. You’re likely to have the best luck bargaining with reservationist at the hotel itself as opposed to those at a nationwide number, but try both. If no one will offer a deal, find a different hotel. You can almost guarantee that your costs will come down if you negotiate. After booking your stay, check periodically to see if new deals have come up in newspaper travel sections. Ask your travel agent to continue checking airfares in case of special promotions. But don’t obsess about it. Vacation is all about letting go and being laid-back. At this point in time you might also consider Shark Diving

TRIP INSURANCE
Did you know in advance the last time your child got sick? Probably not. And it’s a sure bet you won’t know the next time either. In the everything-that-can-wrong-will-go-wrong scenario, picture your child breaking out with chicken pox the day before you’re scheduled to leave. And then there’s the possibility of lost or delayed luggage, theft of baggage or important documents, and medical mergencies en route. These delays it’s hard to tell which airlines have come out of bankruptcy and which are just filing. The same is true of tour operators. So what happens when the company you shcedule with goes belly up? You’re out of luck unless you purchased travel insurance (some credit cards include travel coverage, too, so check yours). Most curise lines, tour operators, and many outfitters will either offer a specific insurance pachage in their information kits or be able to suggest one. Travel agents can do the same thing for you. You will not get your best deal from those vending machines at the airport, so try to arrange for insurance when booking your trip.

Of course, some unforseen problems are not covered by travel insurance, such as your boss’s deciding at the last minute that this is a bad time for you to be away. Read the fine print so you know exactly what you’re buying and what it covers.

Check with your travel agent, cruise line, tour operator, or outfitter for refund policies. Some offer no refunds. Others give refunds on a timeline the closer to the trip date you cancel, the less money you’ll get back. Find out what the refund policy is before you decide to sign up. At this point in time you might also consider Shark Diving

TIPPING
Paying gratuities is usually a voluntary gesture that’s based on performance and service. Many people who work in the travel industry depend on tips as a major part of their compensation. Tour guides, for example, make a decent living only if they make decent tips. If you travel with a guide in a city, on a river, on a walking or beking tour you should tip unless the service is not notably poor.

Some tips, however, are built into the pricing structure and are included on your bill. There are ranches with mandatory tips for wranglers and other staff, and there are retaurants that automatically add a gratuity to food bills. And with some types of travel–cruise ships, for example–tipping falls just short of mandatory. Exactly what’s expected will usually be spelled out in the brochures.

It’s a good idea to check guidebooks and consulates about attitudes towards tipping in foreign countries; what we mean as a than-you might be taken as an insult in some cultures. And it’s important to note that some resort have a policy of no tipping. When in doubt, always ak. Have you considered Shark Diving

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Random Baggage Checks

by TurkishTripAdvisor on September 20, 2008


Do you enjoy participating in illegal activities, such as drug use? Although you shouldnt, it isnt recommended for your heath and not to mention its illegal, there are a large number of individuals who do. When it comes to drug use, whether it be marijuana, cocaine, or some illegally obtained prescription pills, there are many individuals who are addicted. Aside from being addicted, some individuals just like to take them, even though they probably could stop at any time. If you are one of those individuals, there will likely come a point in time when you will need to travel, maybe even on airplane. If so, you are advised to proceed with caution.

Random Baggage Checks
In the recent years, airport security has drastically changed. Before September 11th, some airports only randomly screened baggage, but now they are always checked. Not only is baggage being checked for dangerous weapons, but it is also checked for illegal items, such as drugs. This means that the next time you plan on flying with a stash, you are advised against doing so. No matter how smart you are, there is a very good chance that you will get caught. Despite this chance, there are still many travelers who try.

The number one mistake that most individuals, make when flying with illegal drugs, is carry the drugs with them. New airport rules have been established. Those rules require that all passengers need to take off their shoes. Shoes will now be scanned with all other carryon bags. This means that if you plan on hiding something illegal in your shoes, whether it be drugs or not, you will be caught. It is also advised that you do not carry anything illegal in your carryon bags. In addition to being scanned though an x-ray machine, they may also be examined by airport security.

Air Travel Rules
Since it is too risky to carry illegal items with them, many travelers make the decision to hide them in their checked baggage. While it may have been possible to successfully do this ten years ago, it is not anymore. Now, almost every airline searches through checked baggage. If your bags are locked, there is a good chance that you will be asked to remove those locks. When it comes to checking checked baggage, there are two main types of searches that are done. All bags will be thoroughly searched for anything out of the ordinary, but more intense searches are conducted randomly.

Do you know what the difference is between a traditional search and an intensive search? Instead of just shifting your items around, airport security will actually look through your entire bag. This may mean having every single one of your luggage compartments checked, the pockets of your clothing checked, as well all bags, including makeup bags. In the event that you are randomly selected for one of these checks, there is virtually no way that you will make it to the next point, your airplane seat. More on Travel Resources.

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