Unique Ways To Save For A Family Vacation

Some people, no matter what happens, purpose to take a family vacation every year. This is more like an extremely enjoyable habit for them. However, let's face it. This doesn't seem like a feasible option to many people. That's because they see yearly trips as something only possible for the rich and famous. However, this is not true. Most everyone can enjoy this type of yearly activity. All they have to do is purpose to save and be creative when it comes to the places they choose to visit.

For instance, although many people dream of going to Disney World, this is just not possible for some. That's because it can be very expensive. However, this doesn't mean that someone can't plan an enjoyable family vacation. If someone does the right amount of research they could find a number of less expensive theme parks all over the country. Although some children may express a small bit of disappointment beforehand, it will most likely be dissipated once they actually enter the park. They will see that the popular places aren't the only ones that provide enjoyment.

Other than trying to find cheaper choices for a family vacation, families can also think of creative ways to save money. For instance, they could cut back on their eating expenses. Eating out can really add up, especially over a year's time. Just think about it. If a husband and wife have two children and they eat out at a fast food restaurant once a week, they can easily spend 20 dollars, if not more. Spending 20 dollars 4 times per month for an entire year is about 960 dollars. That's almost 1,000 dollars. This same money could have been used to go towards a nice trip.

Another thing that a household can cut back on is their electricity bill. One easy way to do this is to unplug appliances that are not being used. This should especially be done when no one will be at home. Lamps, cell phone chargers and even televisions are still generating heat, even if they are off. Therefore, in order to save in this area, it is best to just unplug it. The average electric bill is around 100 dollars per month.

Unplugging appliances that aren't being used can save up to 15 percent on this particular bill. So, this is about 15 dollars a month or 180 dollars a year. This may not seem like a lot, but this can easily cover 2 nights in a reputable hotel.

So, going on a family vacation is something most people can do. It's not just an option for those who are considered wealthy. All it takes is a little extra effort.

If you are in need of a family vacation New Orleans has the right place for you. Enjoy the outdoors and visit: http://www.auduboninstitute.org/.

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How to Save Money on Travel: Techniques to Save Hundreds

Every year families all over the world make vacation plans. For many, it's a quick weekend getaway to a family resort, while for others it's an international adventure. Thousands of families take vacations that create lifelong memories. But have you ever thought about how many people want to take a vacation, but can't afford it? Or those families that overpay for a vacation, and never know it?

Those are the stories that I'm interested in. I'm passionate about finding affordable ways to travel. What I've discovered is that it's actually pretty simple to shave $500 off of a vacation. In this article I'm going to go over some of the simple things that you can do to save money on your next vacation.

Try planning your vacation through Groupon. I've found that Groupon is a very useful tool for creating the perfect vacation. Not only are you able to get discounts off of the regular price of admission, you're also able to find fun activities that you might not have seen otherwise.
Take some time to familiarize yourself with unpublished rates. Unpublished rates are prices that hotels offer that aren't really promoted. You have to know about them to take advantage of them. You can find unpublished rates by looking through select price comparison websites.
Don't underestimate the importance of timing your vacation. Prices on flights and hotels will fluctuate greatly depending on the season. A vacation during one month of the year may be a lot cheaper than a vacation during a different time of the year.
Make sure to get off the beaten track. Don't visit a destination and do the same things that thousands of other people have done. Places that are heavily visited by tourists are usually a lot more expensive. When you're taking your vacation, you want to be creative. Find (safe) places that other travelers don't usually think about visiting.
Figure out how expensive the destination is. If you still haven't found a destination, then try to pick something that's a little closer to home. Not every vacation needs to be a cross-country adventure. Some of my most memorable trips have been inside my own state. See what attractions are close to your home and plan a weekend around them.
Make time to do nothing. To me, the worst vacations are the ones where everything is planned out to the millisecond. By relaxing and creating downtime, you're not only getting a break, you're also saving money in the process.

But where can you find the best vacation deals? Finding the best deals on flights and hotels can save you a ton of money. WorldWidely.com has an article that helps you find the best websites to do that. Click here to check it out.

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Ferries To France From Dover - A Recent History

There are many ways to get to France from England, you can use the tunnel (either by rail or in your own car), fly, go by hovercraft or take a ferry. Ferries sail from numerous places to the North of France, but as someone who has spent the last 12 years going between England and France, my preferred method is the ferries to France from Dover. Even over the 12 years that I have been doing this, things have changed a lot, so let us have a look at the recent history of ferries to France.

The shortest ferry route from England to France is Dover to Calais, which is served by P&O and also, since 2012, DFDS Seaways who have acquired the route in addition to their famous Dover Dunkirk route.

Until early 2012 SeaFrance also operated a Dover Calais service, but the company went into liquidation in January 2012. There were many attempts to save SeaFrance, since the company was put into receivership in November 2010 and managed to make a loss of a staggering €240,000,000. None of these attempts worked and SeaFrance are no longer in existence. SeaFrance operated with a fleet of four ships, SeaFrance Rodin, SeaFrance Berlioz, SeaFrance Nord Pas-de-Calais and the SeaFrance Molière. After the collapse of the company in 2012 the SeaFrance Rodin and SeaFrance Berlioz were docked in Calais, and SeaFrance Molière and SeaFrance Nord Pas-de-Calais we docked in Dunkirk.

On 11 June 2012 a bid by Eurotunnel was accepted for the acquisition of three of the ships from the SeaFrance fleet. It is believed that the company that operate the Channel Tunnel obtained these three ships so that they could be leased by another operator. Having travelled on the DFDS Dover Calais route in June 2012, I am almost certain that the 'new' ship DFDS has, is actually the SeaFrance Molière which is now called The Norman Spirit. So I can only presume that the other three ships will be operated by P&O, being leased from Eurotunnel. I don't know these facts for certain, so if anyone knows anything different please get in touch and I will update this article.

SeaFrance wasn't the only cross channel ferry company to go bust in recent years, I used to always use the service provided by Speedferries, who ceased to operate in 2008. Speedferries had just one vessel, called SpeedOne which operated between Dover and Boulogne Sur Mer. This was an ex Royal Australian Navy vessel, originally launched in 1997, which was acquired by Speedferries in 2004 and used until their demise in 2008. SpeedOne was a catamaran, which was capable of an impressive 48 knots or 55 mph. SpeedOne operated on this Dover Boulogne route until the vessel was impounded, by the French authorities at the end of 2008, as the company had failed to pay taxes. SpeedFerries was placed into administration shortly after. Speedferries are no more, but SpeedOne still continues to service the Guernsey St Malo and the Jersey St Malo routes for Condor Ferries. The vessel is now known as the Condor Rapide.

So what are your choices now for ferries from Dover to France? Well at the moment it is just between P&O and DFDS. On the Dover to Calais route P&O do have more sailings each day, but DFDS tend to be cheaper. My own personal preference is to use the less hectic, more luxurious and cheapest route which is the DFDS Dover Dunkirk route. My normal route, once in France, is to head South either towards The Alps or South West towards the Pyrenees and Spain. Either way the first autoroute I am looking for is the A26, which you can either pick up at Dunkirk, or you can get a feel for driving on the right by 'cutting the corner off' and joining the autoroute at junction 3. If you look on a map you will see what I mean, you go through some very strange named places like Watten and Tatinghem. To be honest though it is probably just as quick to jump on the autoroute at Dunkirk and a lot easier at night for certain.

I've written this article in the summer of 2012 and, as you can imagine things are always changing with the ferry business in the English Channel. The Channel is the World's busiest seaway, with over 500 ships per day using it. As the UK's main connection with the rest of Europe this has always been and will always be big business for ferry companies and all the related industries. I still find it amazing that you can take a car, or even a motorhome with five people onboard, over to France for less than the cost of a restaurant meal for two.

I believe that travelling in Europe, taking your time and absorbing local cultures and traditions is one of the best things you can do. If you live in the UK, don't ever feel that you are a long way away from your European neighbours, you really are not. From Dover you can be in very much in rural France or Belgium in about two hours and at the moment this can be done very cheaply. Travel safely and enjoy.

Rick Lomas spends most of his time in France, Spain and England and has done so for the past 12 years. A consequence of this is that he has taken many ferries from Dover to France and is knowledgeable about the services available. As a consequence of this he is a major contributor to a site about cross channel ferries that you can find at http://www.cheapferrytofrance.com/ where you can find useful information as well as a free guide to 'Driving in Europe'.

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Getting To Lombok From Bali

The island of Lombok is one of the main constituents of the Lesser Sunda Islands and lies in West Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia. According to the regional geographical pattern, it is somewhat similar in density and size with the neighboring Bali Island that lies to the west of Lombok. The two are separated by the Lombok Strait. Lombok has a number of smaller islands called the Gilli Islands. Tourism is one of the biggest income earners for Bali and Lombok. Majority of travelers visit Bali-Lombok region to view the different hot spots in the region. Each has something to offer and this generates better and luxurious transport systems.

Transport between Bali-Lombok-Gili Islands is mostly based on sea and air. By air, travelers can go to Lombok International Airport which lies on the south western part of the city of Lombok. It is currently the only international-class operational airport within the region. In Bali, there is the Ngurah Rai International Airport which located near Jimbaran in the southern part of the island which offer air travel to a number of local and international destinations. Daily flights are available from Bali and Lombok. Travelers can also choose a wide variety of airlines services in the spot.

Alternatively, travelers can reach Lombok from Bali through sea transport that is easy to access. The cheapest is via public ferries. The ferries depart from Padang Bai on the eastern part of Bali to Lembar on the western part of Lombok at 2-hours intervals with a 24-hours transport system, carrying goods, passengers and vehicles. The ferries are quite basic and slow, with a time span of between 4-5 hours per trip.

Fast boats are another option under sea transport and operate along Bali to Lombok to Gili Islands. Private fast boat are available for hire at Serangan Harbour and Benoa Harbour in South Bali, and Padang Bai Harbour in East Bali. Those fast boats are equipped with standard safety measures for passengers, making transportation very safe and efficient. Charges are quite expensive when compared with ferries and air transport to Lombok. However, you will reach Lombok and the Gilis within 2 hours.

The region around Bali, Lombok and Gili islands has much to offer. Each transport option should be chosen based on travelers budget. Fast boats with a special offer are considered the best for budget travelers. Travelers can take a sunbath on the boat roof during the trip and get chance to see swimming dolphins.

There are many budget fast boat from Bali to Lombok. One things that travelers should do is examine whether a fast boat have passenger insurance or not. Visit each company website for Bali Gili Islands special offer.

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Top 3 Places for a Fun Devon Vacation

Devon is the largest County in England. A lot of people visit the place because of its famous attractions especially its scenic views. Over the years, Devon developed a reputation among honeymooners. It's hotels have catered for couples trying to have a good start on their married life. Aside from expensive hotels, it has also become popular among backpacking tourists.

If you are planning to spend a day or two or even weeks in the county, you might want to know the best places to visit the and best perks some hotels can offer. From their bed and breakfast Devon packages and accommodation to their average prices, here are few places that you might want to look into.

1. Clovelly Red Lion Hotel

Located in the North coast of the county, this place offers a picturesque view of the steep hillside and fishing area. Though relatively a secluded area, it is easy to locate even without a map. If you are bringing your car, parking will not be an issue. Clovelly asks for a small entrance fee that would include your parking fee and access to a visual program and two museum tours.

When visiting the area, do not forget to visit Mount Pleasant and the grass slopes. These places provide a magnificent view of the Bideford Bay especially during summer. If you happened to be around the area on a weekend, it is ideal that you find time to relax and even have a picnic in the area.

2. Devon Farms

A break from the conventional city life, the stunning beauty of the place offers tranquil surrounding farms. With cycling trails to enjoy the whole view, there are a lot of activities that you can do here that you usually can't do in the city. You can enjoy feeding the chickens or even watch a lamb get born.

3. Dartmoor Wild Camping

Camping outdoors in Dartmoor is one of the best things that you can experience in Devon. One, you get out of your comfort zone. Two, you get a different set up from the typical bedroom. And three, you get a spectacular view of the best camping sites in the area. Among the most popular areas that you may want to look into: Cloud Farm and Moorland.

So what should you bring? You should bring your tent and some food to eat. You can also let the elements teach you how to enjoy the outdoors by pitching into the clean river and cook up in these sites. You can also catch and cook some Mackerel if you want something different from the preserved canned goods.

Planning your vacation may be one of the most difficult tasks especially when you don't know anything about the place. Before you sign up for a tour, it is important that you at least have an idea on what your choices are. You should also make sure that you venture on places that will meet your expectations of a vacation. It may differ from other people but the important thing is being pleased with what you are going to experience. Whether being one with the wilderness is your type of vacation in Devon or you want something that includes bed and breakfast devon; it is all up to you.

Brauntonbedandbreakfast.co.uk offers superb accommodations that could guide you to your vacation. Whether traveling alone or traveling with a companion, it offers affordable room rates with the best in bed and breakfast devon deals.

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2012 Travel Tips for the Social Activist

Is the daily work grind or the continual schoolwork bringing you down? Is your wanderlust inner voice telling you you're ready for a travel vacation? Yet this year you want a different travel objective, not the typical vacation, designed around personal pleasure and leisure. This year you also feel a desire to get involved with some worthy cause, to challenge the power elite status quo and make the world a better place to live. Well, if travel AND social activism are your interests, I have the 2012 travel tip solutions that will please both your traveling and social activist desires.

1. My first recommended travel destination for 2012 is Chantilly, Virginia, USA host to this year's annual Bilderberg meeting May 31st - June 3rd. Chantilly, Virginia, at the Westfield Marriot Hotel, was the host for the 2008 Bilderberg meeting.

Chantilly, Virginia is within close proximity to Washington, D.C.; the nation's capitol offers a unique historical, cultural experience as well as a great place to voice dissent! Fortunately too, for the budget traveler, Chantilly has a youth hostel on the outskirts of the Washington, D.C. area. Why not book your reservations now, and enjoy the beautiful Virginia countryside and Washington, D.C. cultural activities while also vocalizing your displeasure to a passing banker, politician, or corporate CEO? Your opinions and discussions may plant the inception seed activating a pang of conscience that will eventually lead to less harmful world policies. If you discover the overt sidewalk protests are less successful, may I suggest an alternative, stealth approach: position yourself as a well-dressed hotel patron in the lobby where the Bilderberg members are staying. Act as an unassuming gadfly, listening for telling conversations from Bilderberg meeting attendees.

Granted, such intimate access may prove to be difficult; however, for the determined spirited social activist, the challenge enhances the adventure and the success sweetens the reward.

Are you ready for summer outdoor fun, a freelance journalist's dream, and a proud sense of moral accomplishment? That's what I experienced when I planned my fall 2000 vacation in Europe to coincide with the scheduled IMF / World Bank meeting in Prague. A well-organized anti-globalization protest was waiting for the banking attendees, similar to the successful anti-WTO protest in Seattle, November '99, which I attended. I wanted to continue being a part of this proud movement.

I'm certain at the Washington, D.C. youth hostel, and around town, you will meet kindred spirits who are also knowledgeable of this Bilderberg meeting event (global citizen individuals and various NGO members). As I had experienced during the Seattle '99 and Prague 2000 protests, you will form lasting friendships with these fellow travelers / activists.

2. To start your summer season, I recommend planning a visit to Los Cabos, Baja California, Mexico for the annual G-20 meeting, June 18-19. What fun you will have mixing summer outdoor fun with social activism. Cabo San Lucas offers scuba diving, fishing, nightlife, and so much more. Even though the rich elite will be staying at expensive resorts, there are ample inexpensive lodging options at Los Cabos, including youth hostels. You can even pitch your tent near the beach!

3. To start your fall season, I recommend a trip to Switzerland for the WTO public forum meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, September 24 - 26. A good central location for fine nearby skiing, autumn color hiking, and a piping hot cappuccino next to a roaring fireplace as you listen in to some powerful banker's insidious plan.

4. Continuing your fall season travels, I recommend visiting Tokyo, Japan for the IMF / World Bank meeting, Oct. 12-14. Enjoy social activism by day and exotic bustling Tokyo nightlife by night.

For budget accommodations, Los Cabos, Geneva, and Tokyo, all have several hostels in the city and nearby vicinities.

Last, for those planning on traveling through California, I recommend an outdoor excursion north of San Francisco. Besides marvelous vineyards, inspiring redwoods and dramatic coastline, there's also an elite power broker retreat called Bohemian Grove nestled in the redwoods near the town of Guerneville and the Russian River.
The retreat of course has security ( as I discovered many years ago) so an undercover role as a naive hiker is a good start. While peering through the redwoods, you may find an influential politician or CEO performing some decadent, hedonistic ritual in a yellow chiffon dress! Don't forget to bring your camera!

I hope you find these travel tips useful for your future 2012 travel plans. You may even come across yours truly, the author. Happy travels!

Michael McGuerty is a writer / photographer living in the Santa Fe, New Mexico area.

His travel books and photography can be found at: http://www.michaelmcguerty.com/
Please send any comments to: pecoskid@juno.com

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Tips on How to Enjoy a Budget-Holiday in Asia

Asia, the largest contingent on this earth, is home to a number of tourism attractions, and attracts backpackers from different corners of the globe. The best thing about holidaying in Asia is that it's quite affordable to wander round. From food to accommodation, and several recreational activities are quite cheap as compared to Western countries. However, it's quite imperative to plan the trip properly and avoid too much money without thinking.

Here're some tips on how to enjoy a holiday on budget.

Accommodation

We spend a large proportion of our travel budget on accommodation. So you must be choosy and deliberate, when it comes to decide for accommodation. Wherever you go, you will find multiple choices of accommodations - from pricey hotels & resorts to budget-friendly inns and hostels. So before finalizing any option, you should consider your requirements and budget. Choose to stay in a hostel instead of rooms in 5-star hotels and resorts. Private homes and vacation rentals are also great choice if you're with family or friends. You can stay in a bed & breakfast hotel, and save considerable amount of money during your holiday.

Book your accommodation well ahead to get best price. During peak seasons, most of hotels increase their tariff, so it's better to reserve your space in advance.

Food & Drink

No matter whether you're on a Singapore holiday or at Thailand tour, you will have plenty of options for dining. They range from exclusive restaurants to street-side food stalls. So instead of wasting too much money on meals at hi-fi restaurants, eat at food stalls or buy it from local food vendors. They are basically everywhere in Asia. You can ask the staff at your guesthouse about where you can find good food at reasonable rates. They will surely suggest you the one or more. However, avoid taking unhygienic food, because it may cause of some health problem that may spoil your whole trip. If you live in a vacation rental, prepare you meals by your own to save a good amount of money.

Transportation

Carry a map and use local transportation. In case you hire a taxi, you should consider asking your guesthouse staff for cheap options. Almost every big city in Asia has metro connectivity, so use this mode of transportation, which safe, enjoyable and scam-free. To enjoy natural sightseeing, what can be a better and cheaper way than hiring a cycle?

Apart from that, avoid money exchange at airport or private agencies. Go to bank where you can get the best exchange rate. Go for cheap shopping instead of purchasing at big shopping arcades. And, bargaining is the key to save good money during shopping.

Today, a number of budget packages are available for each and every tourist destination in Asia. Search online and find a deal that suits your budget. However, dealing with a reliable source is highly important.

Hungry Bags is one of the leading travel portals offering a wide range of package for Singapore holiday, Thailand tourism and a trip to Thailand.

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Best 3 Star Hotels in Nainital

Nainital is positioned in the Ganga range valley of the Himalayas. Extending from east to the west, it joins the peak of China in the north. Nainital is surrounded by many prominent peaks and hills which offer breathtaking beauty of the vicinity. Due to its pleasant climate all the year round, it manages to attract thousands of tourists from every nook and corner of the world, which makes it one of the most enchanting hill stations within the Indian subcontinent. There are many 3 star hotels in Nainital which make for an enthralling holiday experience amidst natural beauty and tranquility.

Also known as the 'Lake District' of India, Nainital came into prominence due to its eye-shaped Naini Lake which is situated in the heart of the city and is among the tourist hotspot which acts as a magnet for all those visiting the hill resort. Another very beautiful and enchanting place to visit is Nakuchia Tal Lake in Nainital which has nine corners. Among famous religious sites in Nainital is the Naini Devi Temple and St. John's Church. To capture the breathtaking pictures of snow-covered peaks and mountains, one should pay a visit to Snow View Point which is situated at an altitude of 2,260 m. People on a holiday to Nainital can indulge in yachting, boating, and paddling in the calm waters of the lake. One can take in to forest walks for long miles along the forest trails to enjoy the surrounding beauty of nature. The Mall Road, stretching across the town, consists of many hotels, residential buildings, and shops where one can spend a joyous evening strolling around and shopping in the local shops.

Among 3 star hotels in Nainital, Vikram Vintage Inn is among one of the best luxury hotels in Nainital. It reminds one of the charms of an open British house including atrium lobby, grand chandelier and leather chesterfields. The hotel is 30 km from railway station & 85 km from Pant Nagar airport. It provides excellent accommodation, services and all modern luxurious amenities. It even has a separate kids' corner, and facilities for many indoor games like billiards, table tennis, and more. The hotel charges Rs. 5,175, along with complimentary breakfast for every night.

Another excellent choice of 3 star hotels in Nainital is Hotel Cedar Lodge. It is a resort property which is situated on a plateau, in the midst of apple and peach orchards and with views of the Himalayas. It is at a distance of 43 km from Kathgodam railway station. The resort offers large, airy, well furnished rooms with the best modern amenities and an awesome view of the Himalayan peaks. The hotel is equipped with a host of outdoor activities such as long walks, horseback riding, drives through alpine forest, listening to birdsongs and boating in nearby lakes and the highest 18 whole golf course in the world. People who have stayed here say, 'it makes for the best holiday experience at Nainital.'

The author is an editor of Nainital hotels and tour packages. Book in advance the 3 star hotels in Nainital to make your trip memorable and hassle free. Online booking is available from hotelpushpak.com for hotels in India in over 100 cities across the country.

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7 Budget Friendly, and Enjoyable Vacation Ideas

Simple vacations are sometimes the best. When we're not looking for the trip of a lifetime, a simple getaway can be much better. Maybe we're trying to be romantic, reconnect with our family, or simply relax. The point is that we need to treat ourselves to a break. And if you're like most people, you don't want to pay an arm and a leg for it. Here are 7 budget friendly vacation ideas that you could easily take advantage of.

1) Drive 4 Hours in Any Direction

The 4 hour drive is one of the easiest vacations to plan. Find an attraction within a 4 hour drive and plan a weekend there. There has to be something around you.

2) Hotel Room Rental

Some people don't see the point in renting a hotel room and just staying there. Why not just stay home? But I think it's a great idea. Find a great deal on a hotel room and get away from home for a little while. You can expose yourself to a new area and enjoy hotel amenities. Plus, if you look for a hotel in a smaller town, you'll be able to enjoy some peace and quiet that you can't get elsewhere.

3) Park or Beach Hopping

Parks are either free or incredibly cheap to get into. Spend a day or two driving around and looking at different parks and beaches.

4) Bike Trip

If you're the athletic type, then a bike trip might be a lot of fun. This is actually something that my friend does frequently. He'll grab is bike and peddle his way a couple of hundred miles for a week and then come back. I'm not that athletic so I never tried it, but he absolutely loves it.

5) Cheap Flight and Back

Flights are known for being expensive, but that's not always the case. Look for different destinations that people don't normally visit and see if you can get a cheap flight. Sometimes (rarely, but it does happen) you can get a round trip ticket for under $100.

6) Spontaneous Excitement

You can save a lot of money by getting last minute hotel deals. Wait for one to get in your price range and surprise your loved one to an exciting weekend. It can be really fun if you suddenly decide to do something in the next few days.

7) Car Trip to Nowhere

This one has been a dream of mine ever since I read an article where somebody actually did it. Grab your car keys, your favorite playlist, and drive somewhere. There's nothing more exciting than the phrase "should we drive north for 100 miles or west for 100 miles".

But how can you save even more money? Here's a free 28 page ebook that will help you save hundreds on your next vacation. Click here to get your free copy.

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Harness the Benefits of Cheap Domestic Flights in India

Ever since airlines have been privatized, people of India are having a field day. A lot of people have shifted to flying rather than taking the train, which takes a lot of time to reach if the destination is far off. People of India also seem to have realized the numerous benefits of flying. Here are five major benefits.

Firstly, you save time and when you are on a holiday, nothing is more precious than time. Every place in India has so many things to do and see that holidays seem to melt away very quickly. Usually, travelling a distance of nearly 1100 kilometers from Chennai to Mumbai takes more than twenty four hours. If you choose Mumbai to Chennai flights, it takes around less than one and a half hours. So, you get almost four additional days to spend on your vacations.

Secondly, train journey has a major flaw with regard to frequency of trains. Direct long distance trains are not available everyday from all stations. There are a lot of weekly and bi-weekly trains which might not coincide with your vacation time. On the other hand, flights to Mumbai from Chennai are many. What is more, since there are many airline services, you are sure to find a place in one of the Mumbai to Chennai flights.

You also need to consider the fact that many hill stations, owing to their rough hilly terrains, do not have a railway station at all. A few hill stations such as Shimla do have a railway line but it is a narrow gauge and unsuitable for regular passenger trains. If you choose train journey, you have to take a train to the nearest railway station and then take a bus or taxi to the spot. You not only have to spend a lot of time, but also experience a lot of discomfort of lengthy travel, especially if you are travelling with kids. In order to compensate for the absence of a regular railway line, important hill stations have small airport facility which can accommodate small flights. The small Mumbai flights of the low cost airlines can fly into these airports.

The fourth factor is ease of travel. Indian trains are crowded all the time. Major stations in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai or other major cities are a beehive of activity. Added to the rush and crowd is the fact that trains seldom run on time. When you consider all these factors, Mumbai flights or air travel to any destination seems like god sent. Mumbai to Chennai flights are much more comfortable when compared to train travel. More importantly, flights to Mumbai are safer than train travel. The incidents of thefts which are reported on trains do not happen on aircrafts. In case your luggage in misplaced on Mumbai flights, the airline officials ensure that the luggage reaches your home safely because once you check in the luggage and it goes into the cargo box, it is the responsibility of the flight to ensure its safety.

Finally, the cost matters a lot. Low cost flights to Mumbai are sometimes cheaper than air conditioned train travel. So, on the whole, it works out well.

Mumbai to Chennai flights, flights to Mumbai and Mumbai flights offer amazing convenience of travel. So, if you are travelling to your favorite tourist destination, book a low cost air ticket. You save time, money and the journey is more convenient. Your travel agent can arrange a low cost flight for you.

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Flying to the Virgin Islands on the Cheap

The US and British Virgin Islands are the star attractions of the Caribbean. The islands' awesome mix of natural wonders, friendly atmosphere, and amazing resorts, is the reason why many tourists visit them all year-round. This is also the reason why traveling to these islands can dig deep into your pockets, however, there are some ways that you can save up on your tropical paradise vacation, by simply saving on your flight.

Many travel sites will tell you that traveling off-season is the way to go, and this is true. If you don't mind traveling without the herd, you can save serious cash in your visit to the Virgin Islands. It's just a matter of supply and demand really. The more people taking in flights, the more expensive the tickets are going to be. Peak seasons in the VIs are from November through May, while the off-season starts in the summer months to October. If you think about it, going off-season is making the most out of your summer vacation anyway, so it's a two-for-one deal.

You can also save up on the travel expenses by being a little flexible with your time. Certain airlines give cheap tickets for flight schedules that take in fewer passengers, just to fill in the seats. If you can bend your schedule for these types of flights then you're going to have more cash to spend on rum and grilled lobsters when on the islands.

Hunting for budget airlines is another way to go when flying on the cheap. With the help of the internet you can compare flight rates of different airlines that service the Caribbean. Big airlines in the US and UK usually give off deals for patrons looking to save some cash, so keep on alert for those. Also consider traveling in smaller planes; airlines such as Jet Blue, Spirit and ATA, have cheaper fares by default, and not only that, they also throw in irresistible budget deals.

Any constant traveler is quick to advise to travel light when boarding an airplane, especially if your visit is brief. The reason is not to uphold the chic traveler stereotype, but to avoid paying charges that airlines require for checked bags. Limiting your stuff and other gear to a minimum saves you from the hassle, and more importantly, save you money.

Trips from New York and Chicago to the Virgin Islands take about 3 1/2-5 hours. If you're flying within these areas, make sure you eat at home before taking your flight and bring some snacks like biscuits and crisps along, in case you get hungry. In-flight food and food sold on airport outlets are very expensive, so avoid getting hungry when flying. If you're taking a flight from California though, which takes about 7-8 hours, take a sandwich with you or buy something from outlets. They may be expensive still but they cost way less than those sold inside the plane.

Your dream vacation in the Virgin Islands waits for you, and it's not even going to cost you a fortune. If you're willing to travel during the summer break, and you're okay with bending your schedule to fit that of your chosen airline, you're pretty much there already.

Greg Hunt is a wanderer who has the knack for writing. Upon a trip to the Virgin Islands, fell in love with its hum and vibration. He currently resides in St. Thomas and works as a skipper for St Thomas Boat Rental.

Check out some of his works at Pirates Paradise Adventures.

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Make Your Stay Comfortable at Rajasthan Wildlife Resorts

Rajasthan, the largest state of India is globally known for its splendid mountains, beautiful forts, amazing palaces, terrific temples, gorgeous havelis, rippling sand dunes, rich culture & tradition, heritage hotels, etc. Besides these royal and imperial attractions, Rajasthan is also known for its thrilling wildlife destinations. Adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts from all over the world visit Rajasthan to explore its diverse wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Let's have a look at top wildlife destinations of Rajasthan that are popular amongst travelers and Adventure enthusiasts.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary: Also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in Bharatpur is a famous wildlife destination of Rajasthan. The compound exquisiteness of this unique & diverse avifauna makes this sanctuary a paradise for bird lovers & Ornithologist. Further, the park is the home to numerous bird species comprising local and migratory birds. Well! Thousands of migratory birds come to Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in winters. One finds about 230 species of local birds, here. It is truly a major destination for bird watchers and nature lovers. Also, this famous bird park is a declared UNESCO world heritage site. Some of the famed animals found here are heron, stork, great cormorant, green sandpiper, white spoonbill, sarus crane, bulbul, etc.

Ranthambhore National Park: Ranthambhore is one of the most popular wildlife destinations of India. Situated in Sawai Madhopur district, the park is known for its large population of royal Bengal tigers. In fact, it is one of the famous places to catch tigers in their own home. Further, the park is a home to variety of diverse species of birds, animals, reptiles & vegetation. It is also a known site for world famous banyan trees in India. Famous animals found in this park are leopards, wild dogs, wild boar, hyenas, sambar, deer, sloth bear, spotted deer, nilgai, etc.

Sariska Tiger Reserve: Sariska Tiger Reserve is a popular national park situated in Alwar District of Rajasthan. Being one of the most beautiful national parks, Sariska Tiger Reserve attracts large number of vacationers, every year. Dhok is the dominant tree found in this thrilling wildlife sanctuary. Further, other trees found here are Salar, Kadaya, Dhak, Gol, Ber, Khair, Bargad and a lot more. The park also houses a lot of rare and endangered animals and birds such as royal Bengal tigers, jungle cats, leopards, striped hyenas, spotted deer, golden jackals, caracals, leopard cats, nilgai, sambar, Great Indian Horned Owls Tree Pie, Bush Quail, Golden Backed Wood Peckers, Grey Partridge, etc. It won't be wrong to say that this appealing destination of Rajasthan is right place for wildlife viewing & bird watching.

So, if you are a true wildlife lover, then get your adored Rajasthan tours, and enjoy.

Abhishake Gupta Jain is an author of rajasthantours.net, one of the best tour packages site. He is writing articles on Rajasthan Travel packages and Luxury Holidays India for long time.

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Vacation On A Shoestring - Save Money When Travelling

It's vacation time! The kids are out of school, and you are now about to take that trip you have been planning all year. If you're like most people, you are also dreading the thought of all the expenses involved during your travels. No matter how long or short the trip may be, you know, as well as I do, that EVERYTHING cost money. Here are several tips you can follow to help you cut down on your expenses.

1. Buy your gas well off of the interstate. Gas stations and convenience stores that are immediately along the interstates are always more expensive that the ones that are located further on down those side roads. Take just a few extra minutes and save a few bucks.

2. Pack your own food and drinks. Before you leave on your trip, visit your local grocery store, and purchase snacks to take with you. Tourist hotspots usually place a very high price on items such as soft drinks and chips. A good list of foods to pack would be sodas, chips, cookies, bread, sliced meat and cheeses for making sandwiches, and even some fruit. This with help keep you from going into those expensive restaurants for every meal.

3. Take advantage of the continental breakfast. Almost each and every motel you stay at these days offer that morning complimentary meal, most of which usually consist of a small box of cereal, a donut, or a bagel. If you're like me, you'll jump all over that. It's free, and you're have a few more dollars to spend on lunch or dinner.

4. Use coupons wherever possible. Usually in your high-traffic tourist spots, you will find pamphlets or brochures that contain coupons for restaurants, attractions, or gift shops. Don't feel cheap when you use these. Just feel smarter. You can decide to spend $20.00 to get into that museum, or do the intelligent thing and take advantage of that $3.00 off admission price.

5. Don't purchase souvenirs until the last day. Of course, I don't know anybody that comes back from a trip without a bunch of trinkets that will be played with for a couple of days and then thrown into the closet. While vacationing, take a mental note of the things that interest you. Then, on the final day you can make the decision on the item(s) you want the most. This will save you a big headache at the end.

Greg W Pett is a frequent traveler and is also the creator of Pett's Wood Signs.

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The Virtues of Being Selective While Shopping for Grand Canyon Bus Tours

Covering about 1.2 million acres, Grand Canyon National Park is a huge expanse of untouched wilderness. Part of this 270-mile gash in the Earth's surface is located on the Hualapai Indian Reservation, while another portion is located in Kaibab National Forest. It's one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and every Las Vegas visitor should see it. I recommend booking a bus tour if a day trip like this sounds appealing, but you might want to read the following tips first.

Grand Canyon bus tours are all-day events. Most of them are all-inclusive, meaning the price includes a continental breakfast (coffee, juice and a pastry) and a simple lunch. Dinner isn't included, but you'll be able to duck into a restaurant, snack bar or convenience store for that. If you're choosy about your food, bring something that will satisfy your taste buds. Bring some of your favorite snacks, too.

How old the motor coaches used by a tour company is important. You'll be on the bus for a long time, and you'll want to make sure it's safe and comfortable. Unfortunately, some tour companies cut corners, and one of the first places they try to save money involves the quality of their buses. Look for buses that have tinted windows, comfortable seats, individual air conditioning units, and pull-down window blinds. You'll also want clean restrooms, plenty of personal space and big windows for sightseeing.

Be sure to pick one of the Grand Canyon bus deals that stops at Hoover Dam to let you take photos. Don't book one of the bus tours that drive over the Hoover Dam Bypass and continue on straight to the Grand Canyon. The best tours drive over the bridge and then double back to the dam on the Arizona side, because that particular view is best for photos. Your bus will stop there in the morning because you'll be heading back to your Vegas Strip hotel late in the day.

Most Grand Canyon bus tours give you more than 3 hours at the canyon itself. Anything less than two just isn't enough because there's so much to see and do. You'll be happier with your tour if you book one that gives you the longest possible time at the canyon. Some of the points of interest you'll want to see at the West Rim are the Grand Canyon Skywalk, Eagle Point, Guano Point, the Indian Cultural Center and Hualapai Ranch. Grand Canyon Village, Yaki Point and Mather Point are must-sees at the South Rim.

If possible, reserve your bus tour before you arrive in Sin City and at least 3 days in advance. There are a few reasons for doing this. First and foremost, these tours are very popular and tickets sell out fast. Also, you probably don't want to be arranging things while you're on holiday- book ahead so you can enjoy yourself instead. Plus, you'll pay more if you buy your tickets in Las Vegas, especially if you buy them through your hotel tour desk or at a booth along the Strip.

Keep a watchful eye on fees. Some of the more common ones I see are ones related to fuel and park fees, as well as the most ridiculous one wherein the company requires travelers to pay for their meals. You should also remember the old saying: "All that glitters is not gold." If you see any unbelievably cheap Grand Canyon bus deals, they're probably too good to be true. Avoid them because they're probably loaded with extra fees. They may also have onerous cancellation policies that require you to notify the tour company you're cancelling a full day before your tour in order to receive all your money back.

Travel writer Ione Mahler is one of EzineArticles' experts on Grand Canyon tours. For the best canyon bus tours from Las Vegas, she recommends visiting this page: http://www.grandcanyonbusdeals.com/grand-canyon-bus-deals.html

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Enhance Your Travel With Some Excellent Advice

Traveling can be about a lot more than fun. It can also be about education. As fun and educating as it is, it can be costly and chew up a lot of time. This article will give you tips on maximizing your trip time while also saving cash.

When flying with dogs, give them a quick brushing prior to getting in the car. This will get the extra hair off and reduce the hair that gets left behind in your car. Don't forget the accessories you have to care for dogs properly, like bowls for water and food, leashes, and cleanup baggies.

You can ask a hotel if they have any out-of-service rooms if they're already fully booked for the time you wish to stay. When a room has issues that need to be fixed, the hotel will take it off of their room rotation. They're usually minor issues like painting or aesthetic problems that the hotel would rather not be seen by guests.

When hiking or camping, always have a map of the area on your person, even if you're only leaving camp for a few minutes. It's also a good idea to have a GPS or compass readily available for use in case you get lost or turned around within the wild.

Create a packing list for the trip! You should start this list at least one week ahead of time, preferably earlier than that. Their email list should include all of your necessities for the trip. Developing a list is a great way to stay organized, as well as if you procrastinate, it will be helpful to get packing done quickly.

A little research in advance about the laws and customs of the placed you are visiting can save you from a possibly embarrassing situation. There is a possibility that the locals could find your actions offensive and perhaps illegal, even if that isn't your intention. Whenever you travel, it is always vital that you treat authority figures with respect, and stick to the rules.

When traveling, you need to rotate drivers often. If you completely exhaust yourself before you decide to offer to switch, the new driver will have to drive alone when you sleep. Stop driving before getting too exhausted. Instead, possess a schedule of switching between drivers every two or three hours. This will help you stay nice and refreshed for the drive.

Finding out you easily get seasick during your cruise is no fun. This could ruin your complete trip and make you very dreadful. You might end up staying in bed recovering for days, passing up on your adventure. By knowing in case you are seasick before your cruise, you can avoid illness when you purchase medication before your trip. Medication may not always be available and can regularly be expensive once you attempt your journey; avoid days of misery when you are prepared.

These tips will require the stress out of any vacation, it doesn't matter how large or small your travel plans are. Exploring new places and new cultures could be a great experience, so it's time to get out and begin traveling!

Make flight reservations of saving money through Air Tickets for domestic travel is getting a return ticket. Makemytrip deals in India can be tailor made based on the demands and needs of the travelers.

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Find Discount Hotels for Your Holiday

You are wanting to go on vacation, but you are on a budget and you are wondering where to find discount hotels that you can stay in at your chosen destination. You can make your vacation into a great experience if you take a few simple steps and plan ahead. Here are a few tips for making sure that you find the best deals for your hotel accommodation:

The first thing to do is decide where you are going on vacation, obviously! This may be somewhere you have dreamed of visiting for a long time or it may be a destination which you have only recently heard about. Whichever of these it is, you should at least find out some basic information about it, such as languages spoken if it is not an English speaking country. Also find out about some local customs so that you are not frustrated by some minor misunderstanding which could arise as a result of cultural differences. If you are just visiting another area of your own country, well then just enjoy the scenery
Once you have decided where you are going, you should look at a few reviews of hotel accommodation in the area you plan to visit. By the way these are also available on our website! When reading the hotel accommodation reviews, look at the ratio of good to bad reviews, sometimes someone will give a good hotel a bad review simply because they have had a bad day, and some small detail or interaction has caused them to give that hotel a poor review. This is especially true when there are only a few bad or poor reviews, then these can be largely ignored. If there are almost as many poor as good reviews, then think carefully about whether you want to stay at that hotel.
Book early when you find the discount hotel which you would like to stay at. This will ensure that you avoid disappointment and you will also get the best discount available. Make sure that when you have made your booking that you have all the correct details, both for yourself and the details that you give the hotel to make the booking. Be sure that you have the correct dates and that they give you details of your room/s. Be sure to confirm your booking about a week and not less than a few days before you arrive at your destination.

Use these tips to find the best discount hotel for your next vacation.

When you need to find discount hotels for your up coming vacation be sure to decide where you would like to have your vacation, read some reviews when you have decided which hotel you would like to stay at and then book early to avoid disappointment and to get the best discounts available. Enjoy your Trip.

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5 Tips for a Budget-Friendly Penang Vacation

Want to spend your summer in Malaysia, but worried about the cost of a hotel in Penang or running out of travel money halfway through your trip? Don't fret. Here are 5 tips to help you enjoy the real Penang - specifically the city center, Georgetown - even on a budget.

1. Look for affordable accommodation in Georgetown.

Since Penang is a top tourist destination in Malaysia, there are many brand-name hotels in the area. These high-end hotels easily charge more than a hundred dollars per night, and if you're on a budget, this spells disaster. Thankfully, there is still a wide selection of accommodation in Penang available, with many mid-range hotels located near or within Georgetown itself. Many of these affordable hotels also offer promotions throughout the year. Just don't expect a budget hotel in the Penang Gurney area, though. If you're really on a tight budget, many hostels and inns are located along Chulia Street, a known area for backpackers.

2. Eat street food!

Don't let the name scare you. Street food sold at the numerous hawker stalls throughout Penang is safe to eat, and your visit isn't complete if you don't sample any of the local delicacies. Not only is the food cheap - you can get a filling meal with drinks for around USD2 - but there is also a wide variety of choices. With influences from Chinese, Malay, Indian, and even European cuisine, the range of food served at Penang hawker stalls is truly a gastronomic delight.

3. Visit attractions that have no entrance fees.

While a few tourist spots within Georgetown and around Penang charge an entrance fee, many places of interest actually allow visitors to enter free of charge. Attractions with no entrance free include the quaint Han Jiang Ancestral Temple, the Kek Lok Si Monastery on Crane Hill, and the Clan Jetties on Weld Quay.

4. Skip the guided tour, do the walking tour yourself!

Guided tours, which usually cost MYR50 or around USD16 per person, may seem to be a necessity if you want to explore Georgetown. However, if you're feeling a little bit more adventurous or want to take your time exploring the area, why not do a version of the walking tours yourself? There are many guides for walking tours available for free online, so you can just print out a copy and have fun going around the area. Just make sure to do your DIY tour on weekend mornings to avoid the crowds and the hot afternoon sun. And be sure to wear a hat, spray on some sunblock, and bring a bottle of water with you to prevent sunburns or dehydration.

5. Rent a bike or ride the free bus shuttles.

If you don't fancy the idea of walking all day, there are several cheap or free alternatives for getting around the city. One option is to rent a bicycle at the cycling shops located all over the city, such as Metrobike or George Town Bicycle Rental, for around MYR15 to 25 per day. Those looking to explore areas outside of Georgetown can ride the Bridge Express Shuttle Transit or BEST Bus for free. The shuttle route starts at the Sunway Carnival Mall and ends at the Bukit Jambul Hub, and vice-versa, making several stops in the Bayan Lepas area and crossing the Penang Bridge.

As you can see, the lack of money isn't a barrier to enjoying your vacation in this Malaysian state. By keeping these tips in mind, getting a hotel in Penang, going around the city, and eating well shouldn't break the bank.

Clara Buenconsejo is an avid traveler and freelance writer for different travel websites, creating city guides and how-to articles for commuting in different parts of the world. She graduated with a degree in creative writing just a few years ago. Her life mission is to set foot on at least 6 out of 7 continents.

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What to Check For In A Used Caravan

Anyone who is in the market for a second-hand caravan will be hoping to pick up a bargain. Used caravans in great condition and at good prices are available, but there are a few things to be aware of if you want to avoid choosing a dud. Outlined below are a few of the pitfalls involved in buying a van, and advice on how best to avoid them.

Where to buy

The options for buying a used caravan will be from a dealer or from a private seller. A good dealer will be able to arrange safety and quality checks and will have a reputation that they are keen to keep intact. However, peace of mind will come at a cost as you will be paying the dealer's mark-up on the caravan. Private sellers will be more likely to accept a bit of haggling, and you have the advantage of questioning them about any little problems or quirks that the van has.

Arrange a Viewing

If there are no dealers or private sellers in your local area you might find yourself tempted to order a caravan from a distance. There are plenty of places to shop online but photographs can hide a lot and nothing will substitute for being able to look over the van in detail before you buy it. If you can, take someone knowledgeable along with you to make an impartial judgement. Take a list of things to check and don't hand over the money until you're satisfied.

Damp

Look inside cupboards, around window seals and check the ceiling. Any sign of damp leaking through should be a sign for concern as it can lead to very expensive problems and be difficult to rectify. The floor can also be affected so look for spongy spots and check the corners and edges thoroughly.

Water, Gas and Electrics

If at all possible, see all gas or electric appliances switched on and working before you buy. If this is too difficult then at least ask about them in as much details as you can. Water pipes should be checked for frost damage, especially after the winter, so ask the owner whether they are all working correctly.

Furniture

If there are fold down beds or other furniture then take a bit of extra time to get them out and see that all the parts are present. Windows should open and close tightly with no problems and not let in any water. Cosmetic damage such as bumps and dents might not bother you but could help you haggle for a lower price.

Don't be afraid to seek a second opinion or take a friend along to see the van if you'd like another pair of eyes. If using a dealer to source your caravan then it's worth making sure of an after-sales contact number in case of any problems. Don't be pressured or fooled by the eager salesman who wants to make the sale. Used caravans can be a substantial investment so taking the time to be satisfied with every aspect of your purchase is well worth the extra effort.

Michael P Richards is writing on behalf of North Western Caravans, specialists in Used Caravans

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Caravanning: A Guide to Setting Off!

Looking for a worry free life on the open road? Then a caravan is the right choice. However when taking up caravanning, either as a hobby or a life style, there are a few things you need to know.

Firstly check to see if you need your caravan servicing, you don't want it to break down in the middle of nowhere.

One of the most important things you will need to run your caravan is electricity, now most sites will have a power supply you can connect with, in which case you will need a good length power cable (around 20 - 30 metres should do) however in the event of you being in a park without an electrical hook up you will need a backup plan, a battery of 110 ah will do the job. It will have enough energy to keep all your electrical appliances working, just always remember to keep it on charge when it's not in use.

Always make sure that you have the correct toilet chemicals, this is essential, you don't want to be living in nasty smells and unhygienic atmospheres. Chemicals are easily added to the system, just make sure you check the instructions on the bottle before adding them to your lavatory.

Make sure you always have a spare gas bottle. Gas refills can be purchased at most caravan sites, but you don't want to leave it to chance and have nothing to cook with.

One of the necessities of any life (static or on the road) is water, have a couple of large water containers for both clean water and used water, again most campsites have a water supply and for this you will need a large hose (about 10 metres) but you wouldn't want to run dry.

Another handy thing to have in your caravan is a first aid kit, most the time you will be in the middle of nowhere with no doctors in sight it is handy to have medical supplies paracetamol, plasters, bandages, antiseptic cream etc, I'd also suggest that you get a manual on basic first aid to help with any injuries or reactions that may occur. Don't forget your health is important so make sure like your caravan, your first aid kit is serviced before any journey, it should be fully stocked at all times.

Every caravan should have the necessary fire safety equipment, make sure your home away from home has both a fire extinguisher and fire blankets. Remember water cannot put out oil or electrical fires. As always prevention is better than a cure so make sure your caravan is fitted with working smoke alarms. I suggest that like your first aid kit, batteries and fire extinguishers are checked regularly to insure they don't run out when they are most needed!

So there you have it, all you need to get you going on the road. As long as you stick to these easy to follow steps, make sure you are stocked up on food, drink and fuel and check regularly if you need your caravan servicing you should have a trouble free journey whatever the weather!

Michael P Richards is writing on behalf of North Western Caravans, specialists in Caravan Servicing

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The Single Best Strategy To Use For Getting Discount Hotel Rates By Booking In Advance Revealed

Discount hotel room reservations are very easy to find and book now with the advent of the internet and booking websites. From the comfort of your living room chair you can now search the internet to find affordable hotel rooms with the simple click of your mouse. The days of having to use a travel agent to book a room, flight, or rail travel or now gone forever. Browsing the web will allow you to find really cheap hotel rooms for most hotel bookings. You will simply need to compare the rates at various hotels listed on the numerous hotel booking websites that are readily available to book your stay for your next vacation or business trip.

The first thing you should do is plan your schedule based on your business or leisure trip. You will find that most of the popular vacation destinations are filled with people and plenty of traffic. These cities have extravagant hotels which can be very costly and can be difficult for most people to afford. But by searching online almost everyone can find cheap hotel rooms that are not only full of amenities and services, but will fit into your budget as well. It is very important, especially in these economic times, to save as much money as you can and stay within your travel budget. This is especially true if your flight or rail ticket prices are exorbitant. Therefore, you should always be searching for the best deals that you can find online or off.

Using the internet to find discounted hotel rooms, flights, and entertainment packages is one of the most popular ways of doing business these days and can be really easy for most people to do. With all of the special offers being made available online today, people can actually go on more vacations without investing too much money or time, as long as they do the proper research on the world wide web. Most of these online booking websites have a system set up to allow the consumer to easily navigate and plan their trip using such search forms as the departure and return dates, length of stay, and the location at which they wish to stay

Another good idea is to book your hotel reservations many weeks or months in advance. This will be very beneficial to you as early bookings most always come with a discounted room rate. If you already know your schedule like where you wish to travel, stay, and length of stay, then you should certainly go ahead and book early to get the best prices available. By booking in advance you also will feel less stressed and travel comfortably knowing you have a room reserved and at a great price.

So go ahead, plan your next business trip or vacation early, and seek out the lowest rates by reserving your room in advance online through the internet.

My name is Anthony Matthews and I will show you what to look for when booking a room for an extended hotel stay to get the best room rates available. I also own a website which provides information on everything you should know before choosing hotels in Watertown NY to get the best value, service, amenities, location, convenience. Visit our site and you can find out much more.

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The Best Way To Travel Around With Your Loved One

One of the best ways to have an affordable vacation is staying within the borders of the United States on a road trip! Not only does this save you the hassle of dealing with flight regulations, but you can go at your own pace and take turns driving. Road trips are great for groups of friends or families. Whether you would like to visit one or two states or go cross country, you are sure to save money by following some of the tips listed in this article.

It is very important that you plan where you would like to go before you start driving. If you want to be somewhat spontaneous, you should at least have a basic outline of which cities you would like to hit during the road trip so you do not waste time or money driving around aimlessly. Look up some travel sites for the areas that you will be going to for some great ideas. Some activities are free and still worth doing, like hiking in national parks or visiting historic sites and factories. You can make your trip educational and fun without spending too much money.

Bringing your own snacks is one of the best tips when it comes to taking a road trip, because it can be very expensive to keep stopping at roadside restaurants. For breakfast, try having some granola or fruit and bread products like muffins. Snacks for on the road should include fresh fruits and vegetables, cheese and crackers, or other portable foods that everyone (including the driver) can enjoy during the long hauls on the trip.

Make sure that you get deals on places you stay instead of staying at super expensive hotels. Money that could be spent on souvenirs or admission to events should not have to be sacrificed for a hotel room that costs $200 a night! If you have a large enough car, you can sleep in the car sometimes while taking turns driving. Another way to save money on lodging is to go camping while you are on the road trip! Bringing some sleeping bags and sleeping under the stars is a great way to experience nature while saving money on lodging. If possible, stay with family or friends that live out of state so you can visit loved ones and save some cash!

If you want to make the most of your trip, try going when the areas you would like to visit are not swarming with other tourists. Although most people have vacation around the same time, save yourself from the annoying crowds and exorbitant rates for travel fees by going before or after the peak season.

Going on a road trip can be one of the most fun experiences you have with friends or family. This gives you an opportunity to travel without spending too much money! Remember the tips in this article and you can have a fun vacation without even leaving the United States behind.

Come and visit our website to get more ideas to have your own affordable getaways with your family. There are also several couple getaways ideas for you and your loved one.

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How to Avoid Travel Rip-Offs

Currency Conversion Scams

This is common when travelling abroad, when offered a chance to pay in your home or local currency, always pay in local currency. This will help avoid having to cough up conversion charges from the local currency to home currency and then back to local again resulting in enormous fees! Remember, it is your right to choose which currency you choose to pay in and you are within your rights to refuse if any vendor tries to enforce which is also known as "Dynamic Currency Conversion". There have been instances where the vendor chases the tourist down, however, do not budge and remain firm.

Frequent Flier Miles Redemptions

This fee is a total rip-off as you could end up paying anywhere from $20 to $50 to redeem your frequent flier miles. This totally negates the element of "free travel". Though you have stayed loyal to your airline, the company slaps you with a surcharge when you try redeeming your frequent flier miles. One way to avoid this is to choose airlines with transparent terms and conditions. Also consider switching your loyalty programs to a competitor. Doing so will not only ensure that you earn free travel; it will also ensure that you are not paying exorbitant fees!

The Foreign Exchange Rip-off

Changing currency at the airport usually results in a poor exchange rate. If it sounds unfair, that's because it is. When ordering large amounts of money, it is really important to ensure you get a good deal. Start off by having a bit of local currency for emergencies when you arrive at your destination, and exchange foreign currency after heading down-town. The rates are usually better there. Also, religiously avoid exchanging money from touts. Carefully inspect the currency after exchange. You can always cancel the transaction and demand your money back. Though confusing at times, withdrawing money from the ATM is usually safe. Ordering currency at the airport is asking for a poor exchange rate and given the current volatility in currency, it can make a big difference.

Cheap Tour Scams

These scams are common in Asia where you get lured into a cheap deal where the operator offers a guided city tour at a ridiculous price! After literally being pushed into a bus, you end up enduring a marathon of pit stops at various locations which apparently are tourist sites! The "operator" gets a hefty commission from these shops! These "tours" are a sheer waste of your time, money and energy for the tourist traps are never ending! The best way to avoid this is simply to book your tours from established operators. Make sure you check out a few online before making a booking!

Hotel Wi-Fi

When travelling abroad, getting a bill for Wi-Fi at a hotel seems weird, considering that Internet these days is essential! Although, many hotels have given in and include Internet access in the room rates, there are some hotel chains that still charge astonishing amounts from anywhere between $15 to $30 per day for using Wi-Fi! Some hotel offers free Internet access in public areas. Consider booking with a hotel that includes free internet in the rack rates! And ensure that you check with the hotel beforehand!

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Where To Get Cheap Holidays - 6 Questions To Ask

You have been busy working all year; you are tired, stressed and ready to scream. It is time for a vacation.

Before you start thinking of going on vacation, a little planning is required.

Many people use software to plan their trips or other systems such as mind-mapping. One of the best resources for organising a journey is the Internet. You can browse for where to get cheap holidays, travel sites, travel agents, forums, chambers of commerce and travel councils. All are a major source of information regarding your destination. There are, however, six questions you need to ask yourself before you depart.

1. Who?

Who is the vacation for? You, you and your partner, with or without children, with other family, with friends. Your decision will determine the type of holiday.

2. What?

What type of holiday are you and your compatriots interested in?

Do you like water such as the sea, lakes or rivers.

The choices here are immense, for example, swimming, scuba, snorkelling, jet skiing, sailing, canoeing, fishing, windsurfing, etc. If you are energetic, this is the holiday for you and others.

What about landscapes like mountains, cliffs, rolling fields, forests, moors, countryside parks? All are ideal for hiking and some, such as cliffs, are great for rock climbing.

The beach is a firm favourite with millions of holiday-makers every year. Golden warm sands bathed by turquoise-coloured sea. Lying on loungers soaking up the sun? Are you just interested in relaxing and gaining a tan, with perhaps the occasional dip in the sea to cool off?

Perhaps you prefer the adrenaline rush of mountain biking, bungee jumping, extreme water sports, paragliding, snowboarding.

Perhaps visiting museums, historical buildings and admiring the local architecture is more to your liking.

3. Why?

That is easy, because you have earned it. Those countless meetings, deadlines, service with a smile when the customer didn not deserve it, angry clients. You need to de-stress, chill out, relax and take things easy. Recharge those batteries with a break.

4. When?

The time of year is important. Holland in the Spring gives visions of tulips, daffodils and locals riding bikes past dykes and windmills. The trouble is the weather then is liable to be cold, wet and windy and many of you days will be spent indoors. Southern Europe, however, can be bathed in warm temperatures, sunshine and plenty to see.Your travel agent or booking site can inform you of the climate at any location, for any month to ensure you don't end up being cold, wet and miserable.

5. How much?

Your budget will determine your type of holiday. A tropical location in a five star hotel, a European break in a bed and breakfast, hiking and camping or sailing in a long boat on a canal. Don't forget out of pocket expenses, day-trips, food out, drinks, presents and petrol. If money is tight you may want to consider where to get cheap holidays by further searching on the Internet.

6. Which?

Which type of transport are you going to use to get to your destination? Will you use plane, bus, car, ship, walk or bicycle. A combination of several perhaps?

So these are six questions you need to consider before you organise your break.

Who are going, what type of holiday is best for you and possibly others, why do you want to get away, the time of year, the potential cost and the mode/s of transport.

There are many other things to consider when planning a vacation, including where to get cheap holidays, which I will cover in further articles. In the meantime enjoy your well-deserved holiday.

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Tourist Attractions and Ways to Send Money to Japan

Despite Japan being hit by the devastating March 2011 earthquake and tsunami, it remained strong and bounced back on top of the economic game in just a short while. Part of this instance is credited to the presence of tourist attractions in the country. They never fail to seduce foreigners to set their feet in these majestic wonders and historic spots.

One of the top tourist destinations in Japan is the Ginza District. If you are dreaming of an upscale nightlife and wonderful shopping opportunities, it is one of the most exclusive, must-visit districts in Tokyo. The district is a popular destination of the rich and famous due to the presence of designer boutiques, fine-dining restaurants, elegant cafes, and the largest Asian fish market.

Another place worthy of your time is the Roponggi District. It is considered the cultural heart of Japan, due to the presence of numerous art museums such as the Mori Art Museum, Suntory Museum of Art, and the National Art Center. These spots are great places to fulfill your eyes with creative works. After that, you can indulge in a gastronomic feast in some of the district's well-known restaurants.

If you are looking for specific places to visit, then you can marvel on the Tokyo Tower and see how much it resembles Paris' Eiffel Tower. Have a sneak-peek of imperial living at the Imperial Palace, even if you can only get a glimpse of the public areas. Other places worthy of your visit are the Nagoya Port, Yokohama Chinatown, Amerikamura in Osaka, and the Hiroshima Memorial Palace.

With all of its great tourist destinations, it is not amazing why many individuals are getting their passports just to visit the Land of the Rising Sun. Apart from these destinations, many tourists are also anticipating to see the cherry blossoms and the studios where the famous mangas and anime are created.

The influx of tourists has encouraged different ways to send money to Japan. With the passing of days, the methods are getting easier. Dating back to the times when man realized the need to send money, postal and courier services have been the main options to do it. Then, with the establishment of banks, money transfer became more bank-to-bank. Soon, there were money remittance firms throughout Japan that facilitate third-party cash pick-ups.

With the convenience of modern technology, Japanese citizens and other individuals offer a new way to send money to Japan. One such method is to send money online using reloadable debit cards. This is a much-awaited answer for a cheap method of money transfer. Compared to other methods, the fee to send money through reloadable debit cards is very reasonable. A sender can transfer money amounting to $1000 and be charged of just $5. This is very pocket-friendly.

The use of reloadable debit cards is revolutionizing the way to send money to Japan. The convenience to send money online through this method is among the leading benefits that continue to attract individuals to these cards. Twenty-four hour convenience of reloading funds is permissible as long as the user has internet access. Withdrawing the funds is possible at any time for the recipient due to the presence of numerous ATM facilities throughout Japan.

If your loved one is enjoying roaming Japan due to its attractive tourist destinations, support his or her travel and send money to Japan to his or her reloadable debit card.

To learn more about prepaid debit cards, or how to send money to Japan check out ATMCash.

Ernesto enjoys traveling, trying new foods, and is an expert in international money transfer.

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Getting the Most From a Road Trip Vacation

Going on vacation can be an expensive proposition, especially if it involves family travel. Costs can add up quickly. Fuel prices are at or near highs and hotel accommodations during the peak travel season can eat into a travel budget significantly. One travel expense that everybody can control is the cost of entertainment. By entertainment I'm referring to the things you want to see and do during a road trip vacation.

I write a travel blog which centers around historically interesting sites found in the western United States. One simple truth is that to have fun and learn at the same time, you don't need to spend a kings ransom. There are many terrific historic travel sites in the western U.S. that cost very little or even nothing to enjoy and one of the best things about these venues are that they are perfect for family travel. In other words, they appeal to the entire family.

Waco Texas

I can suggest examples in just about every state in the western U.S., and I'll begin with Texas. On a convenience standpoint, Texas is an easy state to travel in. Interstates are quite abundant in every direction and for the most part they are toll free. Heading south out of the Dallas/Fort Worth area on Interstate 35, you'll come across Waco Texas. Waco is about half way between Dallas and Austin. Waco happens to be the home of the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame and Museum. In fact, the museum is directly off Interstate 35 on the east side of the Interstate. Current rates are from $6 to $7 for adults and children $3. Under six years of age are free. Here you'll find artifacts and documents that cover the entire history of the Texas Rangers and the state of Texas.

Austin Texas

Heading further down Interstate 35, you'll come to Austin Texas, the state capital. Two no cost yet quite interesting stops is the state capital building itself which has it's origin back to the 1800's and the establishment of the famed XIT Ranch in the Texas Panhandle. A few blocks south of the capital building is the famous Driskill Hotel. The Driskill Hotel's Victorian architectural style makes it stand out in the Austin downtown area. The Texas capital building was made possible by the selling of over 3 million acres of land in the Texas Panhandle to a syndicate that would become one of the largest cattle ranches in the world. The Driskill Hotel was built in the late 1870's and was at one time used as the state capital building while the actual capital building you see today was constructed. The exterior and interior of this hotel is magnificent and the paintings on display there are very unique to Texas. Both sites are free to explore.

San Antonio Texas

Take a drive further south on Interstate 35 and you'll reach San Antonio Texas, at one time the largest city in the state. If you haven't yet, make a stop at the famous Alamo which now resides in the center of the city's business district. The original Spanish mission was named Mission San Antonio de Valero. Like all old Spanish missions in North America, their main purpose was to convert the Native population to Christianity. Admission to the Alamo and surrounding grounds are free. A great place to take the family. Another very interesting and historically important site in san Antonio is the Pioneer Flour Mill which was started in the mid 1800's by an immigrant from Germany. The Guenther Home displays many period artifacts and provides a very popular bakery and restaurant. A visit to the Guenther Home and the beautiful grounds is free to the public. While in San Antonio, don't forget a stroll along the famous River Walk which is in the center of town and runs along the San Antonio River. The entire River Walk is a public park which is open 365 days a year. If your budget permits, an unforgettable boat ride along the River Walk costs only $7.75 per adult and $5 for children. Seniors over 60 and military $5. The ride is about 35 minutes long as is narrated.

Fort Stockton Texas

For those on an extended Texas vacation into west Texas, you'll find history unfolding at just about every stop. In southwest Texas directly off Interstate 10 is Fort Stockton. At one time, Fort Stockton was a busy military outpost. It was also the home at one time of the Ninth Cavalry of Buffalo Soldiers.Traffic on the trail between San Antonio and El Paso was quite important and the military outposts were in place to prevent attacks on stagecoaches and freight wagons by Apache and Comanche Indians. The Fort Stockton Museum is filled with authentic artifacts from the 1800's which include military uniforms, firearms, saddles, bugles and just about everything that was needed on the wild frontier. Military garrisons at Fort Stockton date back to 1858 with the establishment of Camp Stockton. The museum is located on the old fort grounds in Barracks #1 and includes a walking tour of the parade ground, original and reconstructed buildings. This is another excellent stop for the entire family. For current admission fees contact the Fort Stockton Museum at 915-336-2400. The fort is owned by the City of Stockton and is operated by the Fort Stockton Historical Society, a non-profit organization. Another tour stop in Fort Stockton is the world famous Annie Riggs Hotel. The Annie Riggs hotel is now a fascinating museum showcasing everything pioneer. Everything you see there is authentic and there's quite a lot to see. One of the exhibits is an iron bed ordered from Sears & Roebuck for $6.75. The Annie Riggs Museum is owned and operated by the Fort Stockton Historical Society. The museum is located at 301 S. Main St. Current admission fees are $3 for adults, 42 for children and $2.50 for seniors.

There's quite a few free or low cost fun and educational travel stops all over the United States. A road trip doesn't have to be a budget breaker. There are still plenty of things to do and see that should be able to fit most family travel budgets. Have a great vacation.

Peter Uzelac is a historical researcher and travel writer. He can be contacted at peterstripblog@aol.com

http://www.westerntrips.blogspot.com/

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How to Budget for Your Next Holiday

With the economic climate in such disarray, UK holidaymakers will now find that they can get more Euros for their Pound compared to recent years. With the exchange rate average in 2009 of 0.89 compared to 0.82 in 2012, tourists can get a lot more value for money now for their summer holidays. The pound is continuing to recover its value since the euro zone has weakened Europe's group currency.

With other countries seeing a decline in tourism and many holidaymakers opting to stay at home, finding a holiday abroad tailored for you is a buyer's market. Everyone is fighting for your business and there is no shortage of options available to you.

Now might be the time to think about saving and budgeting for next years' summer holiday abroad. Whether it's all-inclusive in the Caribbean, Disneyland or self-catering in the Algarve, remember it's not just the initial outlay for the holiday itself; there are all the holiday essentials and extras which all need paying for increasing the cost of your break.

In a comprehensive personal finance application you can set a budget specifically designed for your summer holiday. Enter in all the hidden costs with a budget for travel insurance, clothes, spending money, airport parking and transfers, car hire and even sun cream! Now you have your holiday budget and you can see exactly how much this holiday is going to cost but more importantly help you prepare for it so that you can actually enjoy yourself rather than worry about the bank balance once you return home.

Setting up all your financial records in one place gives you a full picture of your finances and helps you to identify the pitfalls of your spending. Once you have a complete view of your finances and you know exactly where you stand, you can start to take charge and make a change or you may even discover that you have more disposable income for a holiday than you thought!

Many personal finance applications will allow the user to build the chart of accounts to reflect their lifestyle. If you want to be specific on your finances or if you want to keep things as simple as possible, you will be able to see instantly where you stand financially, making it really, truly, eazy. So if you're dreaming of your next summer holiday, start making it a reality by budgeting for it.

Whatever your financial needs are, downloading the free 30 day trial of Home Accountz 2012 for Mac and Windows will help you budget properly and plan for your future.
http://www.accountz.com/accountz/30-day-home-accountz-trial-download

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Interested in a Grand Canyon Bus Trip? Here's Some Helpful Information!

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most spectacular areas in the entire United States. It encompasses an immense, 277-mile long canyon which is known throughout the world for its colorful landscapes as well as its sheer size.

Unless you know your way around or you're on a Grand Canyon bus trip, you might have trouble finding the best places to view the beautiful scenery. So, if you're interested in a scenic, cost-effective way to see this magnificent place, you should consider taking a Grand Canyon motor coach ride.

The Grand Canyon, carved out of rock by the Colorado River over millions of years, is one of the world's top tourist attractions because of its unique formations and magnificent views. Many travelers enjoy watching the sun set over the canyon's rim or hiking along the South Rim's Bright Angel Trail. Some also participate in rafting trips down the Colorado River.

Most Grand Canyon bus trips travel to one of two main locations - the West Rim or the South Rim. The round trip to the South Rim takes a full day, so most of these bus tours start at sunrise. Most tour operators offer a convenient pickup and drop-off service for passengers staying at the Las Vegas Strip hotels.

South Rim bus tours focus on the Yavapai, Mather and Yaki lookout points. Each one of these observation points offers different but remarkable views. A South Rim motor coach ride will also stop at historic Grand Canyon Village so its passengers can visit the museums, shops, galleries and restaurants located there. Set aside an entire day, because most South Rim bus tours leave Las Vegas at 7:30 a.m. and return around 9:00 p.m.

A West Rim Grand Canyon bus trip begins with a 2 ½ hour drive from Las Vegas. You'll see the stunning Lake Mead and Hoover Dam along the way. Choose a tour with an itinerary that stops at the Hualapai Indian Village in addition to Guano and Eagle Points. The village features Native American dwellings and an outdoor amphitheater, and it's something you'll want to see.

Tour companies offer different packages, and each one delivers a different experience. The most comprehensive package includes a helicopter ride to the floor of the canyon, a boat ride down the Colorado, and an unlimited pass to the amazing Grand Canyon Skywalk. A tour like this will let you experience almost everything the canyon has to offer.

Other tours are also possible. For example, most tour companies offer custom trips for an extra charge. Because seating is limited, these trips offer a more personal experience. Although they don't last as long as a typical South Rim motor coach ride, the included meals are better and you'll have unrestricted access to your tour guides. Overall, your experience will be even more impressive than the more typical type of bus tour. Book your tour at least two weeks in advance, especially if you'll be traveling in a group.

You can look for tour operators on the Internet if you're interested in a Grand Canyon bus tour. You can even book and pay for your tour online. Most companies have tour packages that include meals and other extras. Just make sure you reserve your seats early - that way you'll be able to enjoy the tour that interests you most.

Ione Mahler, a veteran travel writer is a big fan of bus trips to the Grand Canyon. To see her favorites, go here: http://www.grandcanyonbustours.org/

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Romantic Getaways

Honeymoon, a dream of a lifetime and it is time to make it real after marriage. Choosing a perfectly unique honeymoon destination, which assures privacy for you and your mate, is going to be ultimate. If you are looking for a great honeymoon, but on an equally great budget; here we have narrowed down a list of budget honeymoon paradises to indulge in post wedding bliss.

Bali

Discover Bali, the land of beautiful beaches is indubitably one of the ideal spots that can leave the honeymoon couples out of dreams. Romantic serene atmosphere, marvelous natural scenery, beautiful beaches and warm welcoming locals, it feels like you are in another world. Bali boasts some luxurious resorts in the world where the couples can pamper in spa treatments that offer a mood of relaxation with a touch of romance.

Maldives

Off the coast of the Indian Ocean, Maldives, a country made up of coral islands, teemed with plenty of sandy beaches, clear ocean water and palm trees, takes life down to a relaxed pace, ensuring that you never want to leave. It is one of the best unspoiled romantic getaways where couples can also spend quality time at the beach enjoying a romantic sunset. Excitement under the water is yet another main attraction here. Cuddle close together and enthrall yourself by viewing some unbelievable marine life!

Thailand

Pristine beaches, historical sites, great cuisine and lush mountain scenes, Can you imagine a better place for a long awaited honeymoon? Yes of course, Thailand offers a perfect blend and is definitely a place where you and your spouse are sure to ascend to a paradise on the earth. Be it just wandering around in some trendy shopping malls along with your better half or having a massage session in Bangkok, the capital city; a honeymoon experience in Thailand isn't to be missed!

India

Taj Mahal, 'the monument of love' has captured the heart of many honeymooners. Planning a honeymoon in India could be a heaven for couples who love sight-seeing. You will be amazed by the culture and warmth that each Indian state possesses. Splendid mountain ranges, amazing backwaters, glistening beaches, magnificent Ajanta and Ellora Caves, all together make the country an ideal destination for the newlyweds to roam around. The horizon of action and imagination is also broadened in India with massive chances for adventure.

Cambodia

From the wonderful city of Phnom Penh to the exciting Seim Reap Town, Cambodia can be a romantic getaway that can be added to your honeymoon list. You can spend hours relaxing by the pool, indulge in some cultural excursion, treat yourself to some culinary delights or celebrate the most precious moments of your togetherness on some romantic boutique guest houses and resorts. The ancient monuments provide a fantastic backdrop for capturing some romantic honeymoon photos.

Sri Lanka

Spend a wonderful time amidst the grooves of coconut palms, golden beaches and coral reefs. Romantic journey through Asia's exotic 'Treasure Island', Sri Lanka will impart a sense of a languid pace and a distinct feeling. Vibrant beaches Bentota and Hikkaduva will deliver endless opportunities for fun and leisure and an experience for a lifetime.

Perfect tropical weather all year round, incredible accommodation options, sumptuous cuisines of Asia and of course the ideal romantic atmosphere; impart you some unforgettable memories at these destinations. Kick back and relax in these ultimate honeymoon paradises where you can get more value for your dollars.

CT SG is an online travel agency and a part of the global online company Travix, which specializes in cheap international flights tickets and Cheap airfare deals.

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How to Take a Cheap Vacation

I can't think of many people that don't like traveling. Most of the people that I run across are planning vacations, enjoying their down time, and exploring the world. That's how I am. I love exploring new places and getting around to different places.

What I don't like is paying for the experience. Regardless of where you travel, vacations are going to be a huge financial commitment. No matter what you do, you're almost always going to spend more than you originally plan.

There's really no such thing as a cheap vacation but, there's nothing wrong with taking steps to reduce the price. Here are some of the things that you can do to get the most inexpensive vacation possible.

Be Flexible With Your Dates

There's a huge benefit to being flexible with your dates. If you're looking at getting an airline ticket, then the prices are going to fluctuate depending on the season. However, if you're just looking at a hotel it can benefit you as well. If you're flexible with your days you'll be more open to different discounts that hotels might offer. They might offer a discount for certain days, or give lower unpublished rates. Either way, it creates more opportunities to save money.

Plan Something Close

The farther you travel, the more expensive your vacation becomes. If you plan a weekend getaway a couple of hours from where you live, then you'll end up paying a lot less than what you would have paid otherwise. Look for something a couple of hours away that you've either enjoyed in the past, or never done before.

Avoid Heavily Visited Areas

Heavily visited areas usually cost more. When you're planning your trip you should try to find something that people don't usually do. Look for something that's going to be fun for your family, yet cheap at the same time,

Get Creative

Think about the things that your family enjoys that you've never really tried before. Maybe you've never gone horseback riding, or hiking, or windsurfing. Look for something fun that you can plan a vacation around.

Plan With a Coupon Book

Coupon books can be great vacation planners. Why? Because they give you different ideas for fun activities, and a lower price at the same time. You can also try using a website like Groupon to get even better deals. Groupon is a great website for finding fun things to do because so many companies use it to announce discounts.

Grab a Free Copy of the "Money Saving Travel Guide"

The "Money Saving Travel Guide" is a free ebook that anybody can download. It will help you find discounts, get the lowest rates, and plan a more enjoyable vacation. Click here to grab your free copy.

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