Tips and ideas: actual travel tips and
ideas from members and non members of the Travel Club
Advices and suggestions:
selected practical travel information by country and subject
Send us your travel tips and advices. Thank
you! info@worldtravelclub.org
Tips and ideas
Argentina
If you want to spend a day at a beach in Buenos Aires, go to the
Parque Norte. If you don't warry too much because of the noise of the airplanes, you will
enjoy the various swimming pools and snack bars. Warning: before the entrance you
will have to do a medical control (hygienics!). -03,00-
Australia
Eagles Heritage Raptor Wildlife Centre near the Margaret River, Western
Australia. For the fans of ornithology: in the center are assisted yearly until 300 birds
and it is possible to experience this activity very close. -11.00-
Sydney. Bridges climb is not dangerous, unforgettable and
relatively cheep (approximately 10 USD). Who want to see Sydney from the top in a
adventurous way can participate to one of the organized groups and take a walk on the
famous bridge of the bay till the height of 300 meters! - 04,00-
I you are interested in the nature you will be enthusiastic of Dorrigo, New South
Wales. The vegetation on the plateau remembers Ireland, until you reach the lower
area with the tropical forests. You will find a good information center and quite good
paths. -03,00-
A kilometer from Mary Valley Station, Queensland (43 km south of Musgrave), there is a great
colony of bats (beyond 2 million). The visit is an incredible experience. -8.99-
Bangladesh
One of the most interesting things you can do in Dhaka is a boat
excursion on the Buriganga river. The warf is behind the Pink Palace and the
locals will have a lot of pleasure to bring you around. The perspective of the city you
will find is quite different. -03,00-
Belize
Those looking for something more off-the beaten-beach, turn south toward
the atolls (Turneffe Isl., Lighthouse Reef ang Glover Reef), or the southernmost cays near
Placentia Village. - 5.99-
Bolivia
Every year the indios come to Macha for the festivity de los Cruses.
For two days they drink Chicha, dance and fight. The fights sometimes have also lethal
outcomes. -03.00-
Brazil
You have not the possibility to be there in February for the Carnival,
than you have another chance: the farol. Only one day but it is really good.
If you tired of the city life visit the island of Paqueta where
there is no private car (attention the week end it is crowded). Ferries leave from Rio
from 5 am, they are cheep and the trip it takes approximately an hour. -09,00-
Birmania (Myanmar)
The Thadingyut-Festival - the festivity of the lights - is celebrated in
October in the period of full moon on the beach of Chaungtha. Pagodas, temples and
buddhist houses are adorned with colorful candles and lights for welcoming Buddha. -07,00-
Toungoo: approximately half way between Yangon and the region of
Meiktila. Pagodas, Hindu temples, the Royal lake with pavillon, a small museum and a 18.
century convent ... in this atmosphere you will feel like in the jungle book. -1.00-
Mandalay: in the Maha Aungmye
Bonzon take place every day a particular event. At 10.30 am 700 monks
reach the place to have the lunch. Impressive! - 4.99-
Brazil
Rio de Janeiro beaches are polluted and there is also the hepatitis danger. An
interesting alternative is constituted from the small fishermen village of
Itaipu. You catch a ferry in direction of Niteroi and therefore the bus n. 38.
-07,00-
Brunei
You can visit the historical way of the head-hunters from Limbang to Mulu
by boat, bus and various hours on foot through one wonderful forest in the national park.
Spend the night in a longhouse (the local huts) or in a hostel. The excursion can be
organized at low cost through the office of the national park in Mulu. -07,00-
Chile
A beautiful place for a walk near Santiago is on Cerro Pochoco, above all
in winter. It is situated in Alto Las Candes (easy way by bus). From the top you enjoyed a
splendid view of Cordigliera and it can also happen to see of the condor. -1.00-
China
Zhouzhuang, 38 km from Suzhou, is an old village still today preserved
from the modernization. Rich of channels and tightened alleys. Different is in Suzhou
where many typical houses along the channels have been destroyed. -03.00-
" Panjiayuan Jiuhuo Shichang " in Beijing
is an antiquities market located South-East of the Third Ring Road
(West of the Panjianyuan bridge). It is the best and cheepest place for antiquities and
souvenirs. -7,99-
If you have time, visit the Lake Lungu (North). The landscapes are
spectacular and the way of life ot the ethnic minority Musu is interesting. -7.99-
Visit soon in the morning the Tiantan-Park in Beijing in order
to see local people exercising the Tai Chi and playing badminton. -3.99-
Cook Islands
On the island of Rarotonga there is a very interesting cultural museum
in which the travellers can also admire things like basket or fire making of the natives.
The "cultural village " does not appeare unfortunately in the travel prospects.
-04,00-
Costa Rica
If you want to see the tortoises without to pay exorbitant costs,
you can contact the private reservoir Pacuare (matting Pacuare).Volunteers in order to
patrol the coast are attemptet. You pay 100 USD for lodjing and food for a week. 1.00-
Curaçao
Try to be in Westpunt, at the northwestern end of the island, for a sunset
or better yet, a whole night: The skies are a stargazer's fantasy. -6.99-
Czech Republic
After the fall of the iron curtain in Europe, hundreds of opportunities to explore the
Central and Eastern Europe have opened. Cycling international with main office in the
Czech Republic is offering very attractive cycling tours for summer
season 2000. -03.00-
El Salvador
Laguna de Alegria is a protected area. The splendid turchese lagoon is situated
in the extinguished vulcano of Tecapa in the region of Usulutan. Inside the crater there
is a forest with various wild animals and tropical birds. -03,00-
England (London)
For all the soccer fans we signal the museum of English soccer (open
daily since March 99) at F.A. Premier League Hall of Fame in the Country Hall, on the
South Bank of the Tamigi. -5.99-
France
If you are interested in paleontology and in the coves of the south of
France you can visit in the Dordogne the coves of Rouffignac and Font de Gaume near Les
Eyzies, as well the ones in Pêche Merle and Cougnac close to Cahors (Lot). They are open
for visits from Easter. -8.99-
French Polynesia
If you spend some times in Bora Bora or Morea do not miss a boat tour.
It is one of the beautifulst experience, manta and sharks at a distance of two meters and
all flavored with one of the most transparent sea. Dora. -07.00-
Guatemala
I suggest the visit of the Maya ruins of Flores in the early
morning to experience the dawn from the pyramids. It may be hard, but it is really worth.
Katia. -02,00-
Guyana
The visit of the Kaiateur Falls is incredible. There are practically no
protections or obstacles that prevent the sight and the tourists are therefore rare.
Probably you will have the opportunity to enjoy the time all alone. If you will you can
also spend the night there in a hammock. -12.00-
Hawaii (USA)
Maui. In wilder suoth east coast of the island, approximately 16 km from Hana, there is a
very attractive path that crosses the Haleakala National Park until the water
fall in the region of the " Seven Sacred Pool ". - 04.00-
The Hawaiian Cultural Preservation Association offers everything you need
to know about Hawaiian culture: historical sites, stories, how to prepare traditional
Hawaiian foods, hula, gardens, surfing and folk art. - 5.99-
Consider the backcounter road along the north shore of West
Maui, from Kapalua to Wailuku. The 40-mile-long road is narrow and winding but
newly paved. Traffic is seldom a problem - and the wide-open vistas are spectacular.
-11.99-
Holland
Amsterdam. The 29 April is the day of one of the biggest festivities of
Europe: the Koninginnedag, a popular happening in honor of the birthday of the
Queen. Windows and display windows are ignited of candles and oil lamps, boats and bars
are adorned with balloons, the street are occupied from groups of friends exposing any
kind of merchandises. -05.00-
India
In Dharamsala - also said small Lhasa, here are located the Dalai Lama and many tibetans -
there is a monthly free publication (Contact) with the list of all the
manifestations and all the courses in town. -7.99-
Iran
Esfahan cultural museum. The museum proposes miniatures, paintings, old
Koranic texts, ceramic, wood sculptures and pure traditional customs. Friday it is closed,
the other days opened from the 8 to the 13. -07,00-
Israel
You can visit the country also by train. Interesting are the
route from Tel Aviv, through the see places, towards Haifa, as well as to the south in
direction of the main city of the Negev: Beersheba. Travelling by train in Israel is still
cheep. -07,00-
Israel (Sinai)
It is a good idea to insert in your plan the archaeological site of Avdat.
For the rest this travel, was essentially for me a route of faith, has been an
incredible experience. Annamaria. -06.00-
Italy
Florence. The Mall outlet centre. So I like to suggest to you and all
your website community this outlet, which is in the countryside close to Florence . Inside
of it , you can find the Gucci, Armani, Yves Saint Laurent, Loro Piana and Bottega
Veneta outlet shops ...Fantastic!!!!! -05.03-
During my visit to Rome last month, I stumbled upon what they call the “Time
Elevator” located in the middle of the shopping district off of Via Del
Corso. A narrow intriguing alley off this main street leads you to a brand new
state-of-the-art theater where you actually move to the storyline of the movie.
Prior to entering the main theater, I volunteered to be one of the eight contestants
playing a computerized trivia game with questions based on the history of Rome. When
I chose the correct answer, the computerized “host” congratulated me and when I
was too quick and pressed the wrong answer, he encouraged me to slow down. After
this game, to my surprise, a statue of Augustus and a portrait of Bernini magically came
alive and a heart-warming debate took place about the greatest builder of Rome.
I then entered one of the two motion-based theaters. The lights dimmed and the
25-minute spectacular film was projected on 3 panoramic screens. I felt as if I was
“witnessing” history before my eyes. The seats moved in tune with the
story line. The film takes you through the key moments of Roman history where I felt
immersed within the authentic and powerful stories of the city The special
effects took me by surprise. During the movie when rain fell, I also got
“wet” and when the hero in the film stepped into a den of rats, I “hit the
ceiling” as I felt as if those rats were tickling me!
My favorite pass time is traveling and part of this means gaining an understanding of the
country’s history and heritage. The Time Elevator not only gave me true insight
and knowledge about Rome, but it was genuinely a fun experience. The amount of history in
Rome is overwhelming, but this movie put into perspective the highlights of this fabulous
city – truly the Eternal City.
Time Elevator Roma, Via dei S.S. Apostoli, 20, Tel: 39 06 699 0053
www.time-elevator.it - Sharon - 07.02-
Italy
Visited the Baronie: the sea is fantastic
and the place is of naturalistic interest. If you like trekking and bird-watching
this is the place for you. It is situated on the coast north oriental of the
Sardegna, 45 km south of Olbia. You can reech Olbia by plane or by ferries from
Civitavecchio, Livorno or Naples. Lucia. -7,99
Italy
Venice. Only recently has the site of the home of the 13th-century explorer Marco
Polo been rediscovered. It lies in a silent corner of medieval venice, beneath
the Maliban Theater, near the church of San Giovanni Crisostomo. - 5.99
Italy
Venice. Perhaps only one in a thousand visitors to Venice finds the magnificent
Palazzo Cantarini del Bovolo and its "snail's staircase", a hidden
architectural tresure just off Campo Manin near St. Mark's. - 5.99
Jamaica
In Porto Antonio, on the north coast of Jamaica, is still today a quiet
place and is not (yet?) a victim of a wild urbanization. No great hotel complex prevents
the sight of the lagoon. 5.99
Japan
One of best festival in Japan is the Festival of the fire at the end of
the trekking season (end of August in Fujiyoshida). To thank the Goddess of Mount Fuji
along the main road the inhabitants erect 3-4 meters high woods that they burn as
soon as it becomes dark. -11,00-
An exceptional excursion for surfer is the a
two days trip in the region of Kansai. You take the night ferry from Osaka to
Kannoura. You can reach the beach Ikumihama, Shikoku, is in 10 minutes by bicycle or 25
min. walk. -3,00-
Some of the beautifulst paths are close
to Odawara. The walks begin in the Daiyuzan station (last stopped on the
way Odawara - Daiyuzan). On the way you can find campings and other lodging. The
images of Monte Fuji and fresh waterfalls will fscinating you. -1.00-
Tenrikyo is a very interesting religion. We suggest the visit of the central
tempel located in Tenri-shi, close to Nara. -4.99-
Laos
A very interesting village in the " gold triangle " is Muong Sing.
It is inhabited from numerous ethnic minorities. It is situated 2-3 hours from Luang
Namtah. You can get there by plane from Luang Prabang. -7.99
Lebanon
After difficult years today the country newly is a good spot for
independent travellers. State taxis, taxis collectives, minibus and buses cover
the way along the coast until the historical site and the Bekaa. it is also possible to
reech many times a day various cities of Syria. To Damansco it takes only three hours
-09,00-
The national museum as been as reopened in Beirut. Daily open exp.
tuesday and the entrance costs 5 USD. -1.00-
Madagascar
On the east coast is possible to participate to whales watch
excursions: it is a unforgettable show! A good starting point is the island of St. Marie.
-09.01-
Park Isalo: choose a guide who has um good step. We found
Marcellino (guide of the park) that allowed us to make a beautiful trecking. Licia.
-09,00-
Air Madagascar: Attention: always confirm plane tickets with a
stamp. If you buy the in Italy with Air Madagascar you have a reduction of 30% on
the inland flights. Licia-09,00
Tana: Grill du Rove. Beyond eating very well, Wednesday, Friday (evening)
and Sunday (from noon to the sunset) you will be find very good live music. Licia. -09,00-
Mexico (Cozumel)
Always on Sundays, by day, local and visitors alike flock to San Francisco Beach,
where mariachi music sets the pace as families eat fresh fish in palapa restaurant and
beachgoers lounge. Sundays night the throng moves to the village plaza downtown, where
popular music blasts from huge speakers located around gazebo. - 8.99-
Mongolia
Nadaan: national feast on july 10 to july 13 and you must assist,
it’s another world. On the 1st day the opening is on stadium at 10 AM and start with
a march past with horses and military parade. Archery during the 3 days feast is on 100
meters far from big stadium , in a small stadium. Horses races during the 3 days feast
take place on Yarma, about 10 km far from U.B. near the airport. Graziella. -06.01-
Morocco
Do not lose: Rabat, Fès, Marrakesh, Essaouria, Zagorà, Tafroute, the
throats of Todra, the valley of the Dades, the village of Ait Benhaddou, a night in the
desert (better the great dunes than Merzouga, attention don not pay more than 300dh for
the all day) tea to the mint, the souq of Fès. -11.00-
Trekking to Saharan dunes of Erg Chebbi in the Merzouga. A simple vehicle
is enogh. Many tourists go there only for the sunset, but it is also possible to spend the
night on the place and after the departure of the organized tours the atmosphere becomes
truly magical. -07,00-
Mozambique
Praia de Torfu and its waves are a splendid place. It is situated half
road between Xai-Xai and Vilanculos. In the city you can discover colonial portuguese
architecture, warm people and excellent see food - 7.99
Nepal
Travellers visiting the country in April shold not miss the Dumche festivity in
the village Sherap di Jumbesi. Three days with dances, masks and ritual
sacrifices of animals. -8.99-
Nepal
Katmandu: go early (9-10.30) to the market in Durban
Square. Villagers from the near settlements are selling fresh fruits and vegetables. An
opportunity for beautiful photos. -4.99-
New Zeland
Visitors of the North Islands should not miss the Tongariro Nationalpark.
The mountainous region with its imposing active volcanos offers from spring to the autumn
exellent opportunities for trekking and in winter it becomes a appreciated ski spot.
-08.00-
Norway
The Vesteralen Islands in the north are little bit isolated.
Lodging is cheep in the small villages. The landscapes are wild and... wonderful. From
these latitudes you enjoy the best midnight sun. -1.00-
Norway
In Andoya, south of Tromsö, are organized whales safari.
The observation is a great experience. -8,99-
Oman
A spectacular attraction is the Grand Canyon in the Jabal-Akhdar-Massiv,
looking at to Jabal Shams (the higher mountain of the country). From a plateau at to 2000
m the view in the canyon is wonderful. -8.99-
Pakistan
Participate at the manifestations dedicated to the north winds that have place in
spring in Lahore (Bassant festival). From February to March the skies are
full of north winds. The weather is practically always beautiful and you will meet someone
willing to help you to make your your north wind.
-03.00-
Papua New Guinea
Crater Mountain Wildlife Management Area in the province of Simbu. If you wish to
live with the local populations, experience the culture and alimentary habits, explore the
forest or the rivers on canoes, then you are are here to the right place. Information at
the Conservation Foundation of Papua New Guinea. -07,00-
Philippines
If you intend to make an excursion to Sagada, it better to plan
it on Sunday. In fact in this day it is possible to participate to a soccer match with the
local student team who usually challenge the visitors. -07,00-
Portugal
Vila Nova de Milfontes is only a small point on the map, on the route along the
freeway from Lisbona to Sagres, but it is the dream of every traveller. It is very
appreciated from the Portugueses and offers also convenient lodging in local houses. The
village is situated where the river enter the sea and has a beautiful beach. -07,00-
Russia
S. Petersburg. During the week-ends and the festive days in Neva it is possible
to enjoy an unforgettable flight in helicopter (the cost isf 5 US$!) over
the city. It leaves from the Yelagin Island and the flight has a duration of 20 minutes.
-12,00-
Solomon Isl.
The splendid Marovo Lagoon has been declared World Heritage Site. It is
situated in the West Province and there are some ecological Lodges for the tourists.
-7.99-
South Korea
Ullungdo is an island to the east of Korea, in the Sea of Japan. Here there is no
tourism, but you can find good fish, seefodd and splendid possibilities of
excursion. -03.00-
Spain
Barcelona. On the beach of Bogatell (former olympic quarter) the
Barcelonians go to make their jogging, to read the newspaper and to have breakfast with
fried seafood, bio-yogurt, cereals and fresh fruit juices. - 6.99-
Sweden
In all the tourist winter stations Swedes are offered more or less adventurous
excursions. Who still wishe more, can now experience a slad dogs safari.
-04,00-
Taiwan
The one don't-miss visitors attraction is the National Palace Museum, a
short cab hop outside Taipei. The museum itself is old and fusty, but the treasures it
contains represent the greatest collection of Chinese art in the world. - 5.99
Tanzania (Zanzibar)
Zanzibar has a beautiful landscape, but it offer few good bath opportunities
(see-weed, tides etc.). The best places for a beautiful bath or snorckling are: the wide
sandbanks of Stone Town (attention to the tides!); the atoll of Memba (but the beach is
private); the beach Lagoon close to resort The Sultan in Beeju is characteristic, but not
exceptional. Cesare - 9.99-
Thailand
A day excursion by boat to the Ko Kret island: a pacific place with
typical panoramas. You take the express boat Chao-Phraya until Nonthamburi, here you find
the boats (on the left) to Ko Kret. Ask the price before starting! -01.00-
Phuket. Every October, islanders observe the Taoist vegetarian
festival. This is the best time to try the innovative street foods, such as
ginger and bamboo curries. Parades and temple ceremonies with body piercing, knife walking
and hot coal dancing make for a visual feast. -6.99
Turkey
Sagalassos is the name of a new archaeological site. You can visit it free of
charge (you need about 4 hrs). From Ispata to Aglasun it is possible to take a Dolmus
collective taxi and to ask the the driver to bring you until the site of
Sagalassos. -07,00-
Turkey
Those people who want experience the truly passion for soccer of the
Turks have to enter one of the bars of the Turkeli Caddesi where Sunday evening
hundreds of fans are watching the games on television. Every bar supports one team.
Attention: it is a man only world. - 1.00-
USA (Florida)
Off the Beaten Path in Florida. For a prolonged stay at relatively low cost, I recommend
the upper gulf coast of Florida, in Levi County. Cottages a mile
from the beach are so inexpensive that you can afford to stay the whole season for less
than you could live at home! The area is so lush naturally that it is almost a
jungle until you reach the sandy shore. The flora & fauna are of great interest.
Antoinette. -06.00-
USA (New York)
Time Square, Marriot Hotel, 8th floor (reception). Go out of the
elevator, turns to right and go to to the garden-restaurant: have a wonderful look of the
external elevators. Now climb to the 40th floor (bar), ask for a small table and you
discover that you can have a buffet lunch for 14 USD (!) in a hall from which you enjoy a
wonderful view of NY. Do not go to the restaurant upstairs: it is very expensive.
Duilio (Italy) - 4.99
Zanzibar (Tanzania)
Jambiani Beach is one of the best beach of the Island, you can find bungalows and
experience still genuine local life. -07,00-
Zimbabwe
A great experience is to travel with the National Railways. In particular
in the first class. Nothing has changed for years and it seems to go back in the time!
Compartments first class costs only 7USD! -7.99
Zimbabwe
If possible visits the Victoria Falls in a full moon night. In these
nights the park is exceptionally open, but the number of persons admitted is limited. The
show is incredible: the waters seem illuminated and there is wonderful rainbow in the
night. -7.99
Wales
You don't need to own a cottage to enjoy the Snowdonia region of the northwestern
Wales. Spread out around the foothills of the mountains are several relaxed bases for
travelers. -5.99
Advices and suggestions (by
subject)
Plane (meals)
If you want 2 inflight meals when on a plane:
1- Order vegetarian option before you fly
(these are always served first by seat no.)
2- Eat it quick (or hide it)
3- Accept (2nd) non-veg meal like all other pax
(works every time!!)
Richard -11.02-
Luggage
If you check valuable luggage that can't enter the airplane
(e.g. silverware in an appropriate casing) as special luggage, be prepared to find it
getting placed with every other piece of luggage in the cargo area. Lufthansa for instance
will claim that the according damage which has to occur due to the heavy volume, weights
and sizes of the other suitcases is considered wear and tear. Lufthansa will further not
take any responsibility, instead they will provide you with the pre-printed forms if
you request reimbursement. Also be prepared to find lots of typos and incompetence from
the baggage service. Unfortunately Lufthansa's superior travelling service only
applies to 1st and business class
passengers. Manuela. -12.99-
Advices and suggestions (by
country)
Australia
If you buy or you rent a vehicle for a extended period we advise you to buy a general
access to all the national parks, the cost is 60 AD (the single entrance to the
park is 15 AD per person!). It is better to buy it in Sydney or in another important
cities. -7.99-
Great site for the traveller: www.australianaustralia.com. Rob. -07.01-
Austria
Vienna. If you want to save money and avoid one of the expensive sightseeing
tours, you can rent a bicycle at the Velofahrten organization. -04.00-
Birmania (Myanmar)
Before leaving put in your bag scent and lipsticks that do not
use. Often it will be able to exchange them with postcards, handicraft objects ... Erica.
-01.01-
The local train in Yangon is an optimal opportunity in order to visit the
entire city at a low cost. The line is call Circle Line, it departs and
returns at the central station and make a round trip of the city. -1.00-
Brazil
Cash and credit card Visa is the best solution, with Traveller Cheques you can
get problems. In every small village there are today cash point that accepts Visa card. -
03.00-
Brazil
Banks service is very slow. Automatic credit card cash service (visa
symbol) is avalable by Bradesco Bank and the Banco do Brasil. -3.99-
Chile
Traveller Cheque change is charge with high commission fees. Amexco TC
can be changed 1:1 in USD at the Bank BCI in Santiago. It easy th change dollars in local
currency in one of the of the money change office in the Augustinas Ave. -8.99-
China
Avoid when possible to clean the nose in public. Do not arrive delaited if
invited for lunch. Do not eat all the food of your plate if invited. Only foreign women
can drink alcoholic in public, the Chinese not. -02.00-
Cuba
Website www.casecuba.com to prenote official case
particular with (cheap) pick up service from the airport. Daria e Andrea. -
11.02-
Website www.viazul.cu for itineraries and
schedules of local bus sevices. Daria e Andrea. - 11.02-
Curaçao
Curaçao has 150'000 residents and 44'000 autos; even so, your best bet for getting a true
sense of the place is to add to the highway overland and rent a car. The
Island has more than 30 beaches almastevery one worth experiencing. -6.99-
England
London. If you are looking for a cheep alternative to spend a night in the summer
time (during the vacations, until the third week of september), the student house
close to London Bridge (tel. 2074031932) offers rooms to tourists at very
interesting rate. -08,00-
England
The cheepest places to change money are the airports. After they have
been privatized, they are forced from the law to recharge lower change commission than the
tourist agencies in the City - 3.99-
Greece
Athens / Taxi. Just make a signal to taxis already occupied. It is usual the
occupation of a taxi with more customers. In cities fixe the price in advance or demand
the use of the taximeter. -04.00-
Holland
If you have the opportunity to be in Amsterdam during the school time you can visit the hotel
school in Da Costastraad 60. In the large caffé you will get the best menu and
very cheep (reservation necessary). -12.00-
India (Pakistan)
Bus connection Dehli - Lahore. Departure from Bus-Terminal Dr. Ambedkar
Stadium in the old Dehli, it is advised to reserve tickets at least a week in advance.
During the 12 hours of travel you cross interesting regions of Punjab and you stop at good
restaurants. -12.00-
India
If you are looking for lodging in McLeod Ganj (near Dharamsala),
try to the Dip Tse Chok Ling monastery. You must climb 300 steps, but it is worth the
pain: a pacific and calm place, not expensive, with warm water and bonds meal. 03.00-
Israel
The religious places are crowded, tried to plan in inverse order to the
previewed one. To the Holy tomb it would be better to go soon in the morning or in the
evening, otherwise you will lose all the day in interminable rows. Annamaria. -06,00-
In the orthodox churches: no discovered shoulders and short pants for the
women and also for the men. During the day it can be very hot, but evening, night and
morning it is cool (Jerusalem is very cold and windy). Annamaria. -06.00-
Japan
Buy a local flight ticket exactly (!) two months before. You will receive
therefore a price reduction of 40-50%. -4.99
Jordany
Bring great amounts of one dollar notes. There are problems of currency
and of change, moreover dollar notes are
important for tips. -7.99
Kenya / Tanzania
Attention to the choice of the safari agency: we had some troubles. The
best solution is to rent a car with the driver and to pay all the rest (park fees, lodge
or camping, meal) independently. Cesare. -9.99-
Mongolia
Anyone interested in travelling to Mongolia can travel by train with
no problem as long as you have the right docuemnts. Going by train it is cheaper and you
meet some of the local people you would miss travelling by plane. If you will stay in
centre of the city in a confortable 1-2-3 rooms, cheap and clean, contact me. Zaya.
-11.01-
On the ger: you pay about 5 US$ per day and per personn, inclunding tradional meal:
milk, cheese and a good mongolia soup. Take with you some small presents very
usufull for people living so far from anything: small knife like swiss model, candles,
refill for torch, matches, lighters, pen and pencils, thread and needles for sewing and
don’t forgot cigarettes as Mongolian smoke a lot. We bought on U.B. 2 cartons of
cigarettes (Monte Carlo) and each morning I gave to the driver a packet of cigarette and
so he could smoke and give cigarettes to evrybody we met during the trip. Each morning you
pay to the lady and we gave with the money some presents: ligther, matches, candles
(no eletricity), 1 or 2 packets of cigarettes, sometimes a swiss knife, pen and pencils
for children. Never candies because dentists are rare, far away and cost... Graziella.
-06.01-
Money: the most you will have to spend is for the jeep rental, jeep rental is
NECESSARY if you want to go in the steppe to divide traditional mongolia life, have great
emotions meeting local people and see so wonderful and marvellous landscapes. Roads are
rare, only running- track, bus don’t go evrywhere, are slow and don’t travel
each day. Change all the money you think to need for your trip in the steppe, for example
to pay each night under the ger, and PLEASE think to have the right money as people are
poor and sometimes live without money and of course you can’t pretend that people
have change for you...and also your driver is not your bank as maybe he can’t have
always money for you. Now you have finish to spend money as you will not find
Harrod’s shop to do shopping...and maybe like us you can stay more than 15 days
without see a town, only very small villages with only petrol refill and 3 houses...
Graziella. -06.01-
Nepal
Visit the website www.navyonepal.com . -06.01-
New Zeland
A interesting alternative to Auckland is constituted from the suburb of
Devenport. You can reach it with the ferry in 10 minutes from Auckland and
it offers many likeable calm restaurants and good Bed & Breackfast. -08.00-
New Zeland
Bicycles are cheaper than in Europe. In the greater centers you will also find
second hand bike of optimal quality. Considering the difficulties that often you can meet
in carrying your own vehicle by plane, the purchase in NZ can be an optimal alternative.
-03.00-
Nigeria
If you plan to visit Nigeria, then, to avoid some harassment
when traveling around in a car, just hire a police man to follow you. That will cost
app. 20 usd per day. The harassment is not coming from any criminals which are in
Nigeria not more frequent than any other country in the world, but is coming from
government officials which they find the roads of Nigeria a nice place to collect money
for themselves. This the list of some bribe collection points:
- police check point
-mobile police
- military
-immigration
-custom
-Nasty, hooligans,mostly illiterate local tax collectors.
Cesare. -07.00
Norway
The railroad is expensive in Norway. In case of extended stay it may be convinient to
acquire a Scan-Rail-Pass, reserving 5 days in advance, youl will benefit
of reductions until 50% on the ticket price. -11,00-
Oman
The local English press is offering of various kind of social and mondane
appointement. With a little good luck you will be able also to participate to a
reception of high level. -03.00-
Portugal
Algarve in February to play golf is a dream place. I know a great golf
pro who lives there, write to me if you want to go.
-04.00 Irminswitz@hotmail.com
South Korea
Restaurant. Separate accounts for groups that seat at the same table are not
usual. To speak loud or to gesture in exaggerated way, as well show anger or dissent, it
is not accepted. You are loosing your face. -04,00-
Spain
Barcelona. The Barcelona Card (24, 48 or 72 hours) allows the
access to 88% of the museums and the attractions with a price reduction until 50%, as also
it allows to get free of charge the day pass for all public transport services. -04.00-
Thailand
To drive a car you must have an international licence and remember to
maintain the left. Road network is good and the signs are also in English language in the
tourist centers. Consider that the driving habits are completely different. Two examples:
larger vehicles come always first, the use of the clacson is vital. Avoid to drive during
the night outside the centers. Claudio. -7.99-
If you rent a motorbike you must know:
1. always carry with you the international license and the one of your country
2. the driver must use the helmet
3. you need an insurance for the passenger
4. police controls are frequent and you must pay fines on the place. Claudio. -7.99-
If you rent a car you must know:
1. it is advisable to do it by an international organization
2. check to have enclosed in the contract all the insurances
3. always carry with you the international licence and the one of your country
4. always use the clacson when you come close to motorbike or pedestrians. Claudio. -8.99-
In case of
incident you must know that you will encounter many problems. Therefore check
your legal protection, visit and be kind with the Tourist Police and loook for a local
lawyer who speaks your language. Claudio. - 8.99 -
Taiwan
Don't even think about driving: the traffic is horrendous on Taiwan.
Signs are confusing and there's no place to park. Instead, take a taxi, wich are cheap and
swift in Taipei. (Ask your hotel concierge to write out your destination in Chinese and
carry a card from your hotel). -5.99-
Uzbekistan
We suggest travellers to carry small US Dollar notes - the large
ones are not changed. Moreover we have found particularly boring the continuous controls
of the police. Roberto. - 04.00-
Venezuela
Puerto the Cruz: if you can not avoid it - the sea is polluted
and dirty, the level of crime is rather high - at the Montecarlo hotel, on the paseo
Colon, managed from a Venezuelan of Italian origin, clean. One double 12.000 B, one triple
15,000. Licia. -02,01-
Hotel in Ciudada Bolivar: Avoid the Caracas hotel: dirty. Much better is
the Posada Amor Patrio. Only 9.000 B for personalized rooms of great taste. Optimal german
breakfast for 2500 B. Licia. -02,01-
Hotel in Chiciriviche: Posada Alemanna. 10.000 2.500 B german breakfast
more than abundant. The owner, Luis, pick you also up at the bus station. He organizes
optimal excursions. Lycea. -02,01-
Hotel in Choroni: Posada Alfonso 10.000 B/14.000 for the week end. If but
you want something romantic and exclusive: Lemon Tree - . Single coast 20.000 B but
is truly beautiful. Licia. -02,01-
Hotel in Merida: Posada Alemanna: 10.000 B / House Alemanna 15.000 (but
also with TV in the room). Licia -02,01-
Hotel in Los Nevados: Miguel on the top of the hung. 5.000 B pp to sleep,
supper and breakfast. Miguel will be able also to organise a guide tour on all mountains
you. Licia. -02,01-
Vietnam
Phu Quoc Isl: now daily flight (ex. Sat.) for 100 $ (return) from Saigon.
No Bank but change close to the Duon Dong market in the jewelleries or at the Phu Quoc
Resort with credit card. It is a nice place to relax. Teo. -11.00-
Visitors crossing the country can buy an Open-Tour-Ticket of the company Sinh Cafe.
The trip can be interrupted how many times you want and the buses are running daily the
route Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Hué, Danang, Hoi An, Nhatrang, Dalat, Saigon and return. -08.00-
Vietnam
About the difficulty to send email from the Vietnam: I can assure that in
the quarter of the travel agencies there is Sihn Cafe there and many other internet cafes,
it is also possible at the Lele Hotel, good rapp. Q/P. Teo - 05.00-
Zambia
Those who have missed the appointment with the solar eclipse 1999
have got a new opportunity the 21 June 2001 in Africa. In Angola,
Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Madagascar. A beautiful suggestion: eclipse from the
Victoria Falls or from one boat on the Zambesi. 04,00-
Zimbabwe
Do not miss to read the visitors book of of the airport in Harare.
It contains curious information above all and many amusing citations. -03,00-
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