What you need to know about – Thailand Travel

By Mansi Gupta

Thailand is one of those destinations, which is forever teeming with tourists. The country holds an exclusive position in the hearts of all vacationers for the place has much more to offer than anyone can expect. Thailand lies in the South East Asia region and can be taken to be the land of Buddha. Almost all the Buddha devotees desire to visit this country once in their lifetime. This is due to the fact that Thailand has some of the unique and exquisite Buddha temples where perfect tranquility prevails.

A Concise Review of a Seemingly Interminable Place

The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is worth visiting spot. This sacred temple has Buddha statue that is 65 centimeter elevated and is entirely made of jasper quartz or jade. While the jade goes back to 15th century, the murals on the walls of the compound can be traced back to 18th century. The visitors can take a look at The Royal Thai Decorations and the Coin Pavilion. All in all the sanctity of the temple speaks through itself and the ambiance is enough to enchant the visitors.

Along with Temple of Emerald Buddha, several other grand Buddha temples can be seen once you move into the city of Bangkok. Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand has proved its worth across the globe. This metropolis has everything to offer to its visitors. From wonderful museums to thrilling nightlife, Bangkok has it all. The bustling city owns the largest South East Asian museum called The National Museum. National Museum has a gathering of various things like Thai art from old to contemporary, musical instruments, weapons, woodcarving, ceramics, clothing and sacred Buddha images.

Visitors that come to Bangkok never miss the opportunity to encounter Vinmanmek Teak Mansion that is supposed to be the largest teak building in the world. The Royal Elephant Museum and Dusuit Zoo are perfect places to have some learning with fun.
The Wat Pho temple near the temple of Emerald Buddha in Bangkok is perhaps the oldest and the largest of all Buddha temples there. The Wat Pho temple is known for its 46 meter long statue of reclining Buddha and the largest collection of Buddhas in the country. A refreshing massage therapy is done at this place that too attracts a lot of people.

Finally when it comes to shopping, Bangkok has it all. There are ample of markets here that will serve you with all the things of your necessity. The Chatuchak Market or The Weekend Market (that is open on Saturdays and sundaes only), the Pak Khlong market and markets in Chinatown and Phahurat district are particularly quite famous.

The Thonburi region resting on the west bank of river Thonburi has always gathered attention due to different reasons. The Taksin Monument that has a statue of Thailand’s eminent king Taksin which is a delight to watch. The Royal Barges Museum that has a fantastic collection of boats, the outstanding one being the king’s personal barge –The Golden Swan is definitely a pull in Thonburi.

Buddhist stupas area centre of attraction at Ayuthaya, a city that lies to the north of Bangkok. The oldest and largest temple here is the Wat Phra Si Sanphet, another famous temple is Wat No Phra Meru that has a green stone Buddha statue inside. The Ayuthaya and the Chantharakasen are the two significant national museums. The Lopburi and the Kanchanaburi town in the Central Thailand region is a host to a lot many tourists every year.

In the Southeastern Thailand region is situated the Ko Chang National Park that is crammed by people due to the various activities like elephant riding, diving, snorkeling etc. and also to enjoy the wildlife in this area. The Rayong Province has a set of exotic beaches along with the Khao Chamao-Khao Wong National Park that has striking limestone mountains, caves, cliffs and waterfalls including impressive wildlife. Pattaya is another eventful beach spot located 150 kilometers away from Bangkok.

The Northern Thailand is bedecked by the Lamphun Province that has numerous historical temples, Doi Khun Tan National Park, the Lampang Province that grounds the Wat Phra That Lampang Luang temple which is considered to be one of the most beautiful temples in Thailand and there is also the famous Thai Elephant Conservation Center which provides acre for sick elephants, animal shows and tourist exhibits from time to time. The Sukhothai Province is important for its Ramkhamhaeng National Park.

The Isan Region of Northeastern Thailand has the renowned Khao Yai National Park, which is a home for innumerable wild animals and the Phanom Rung Historical Park.

Few places at the Thailand’s Southern Coasts like Phetchaburi city, the Southern Gulf Region (known for marine life and water sports) and the Andaman Coast are everlastingly meant for vacationing in Thailand.


Mansi gupta writes about thailand travel topics.

Asian Girls Dating : Why Travel To Thailand?

This article by Dao Jones is very interesting and also very true.


Asian Girls Dating: Why Travel To Thailand?

There are many reasons to travel. It can be to relax, have fun, experience, or simply to have a change of pace. Traveling can also be about relationships.

Traveling with a companion/lover is often viewed as the best way to travel as you have dedicated time for one another. But what about those of us who aren't in a relationship?

While traveling alone has its advantages, the truth is that traveling without that special someone often just doesn't cut it. And we know finding that special someone while on vacation generally doesn't happen, so we often end up not traveling at all.Your concerns might also be even larger than not just having a travel companion/lover.

In the selection of one's life-mate department, you say you dropped the ball? And it turned out to be a major disillusionment, as you couldn't just simply turn around and get another relationship?

You went through endless angst replaying the minutiae of what she said and what you said. It was depressing. Also depressing is the realization that getting "good" at relationships is like anything else: it requires practice.

And this kind of practice is often in short supply.There's a solution for the problems of not having a travel companion, not being in a current relationship, and not getting the needed practice at relationships.

It's called Thailand. And thrown in as a bonus, you will also get tales to regale both friends and strangers with. Think of Thailand as an accelerated relationship course.

Within a space of just a few days you can find yourself going from a fast night of sex to having a full time girlfriend.

It's not unusual that over a span of, say, two or three weeks that you connect with a girl like with no other one before; that you may very well be having the most incredible time of your life.

If relationship experiences are what you desire, Thailand is hard to beat. In Thailand you are king. Screw up your relationship? Not great but not a disaster either. You can get solace the next day (actually even sooner than that).

For a modest amount of money you can have a holiday that will be especially memorable, perhaps even life-changing. Not only can you have all the girls you ever dreamed about, you can have a great time.

Be it dancing, drinking, looking at sexy girls, sharing camaraderie, or relaxing at an open-air bar playing pool while having a sweet young thing cooing over you and ministering to your needs by applying cool moist towels to your hot neck and fevered brow.

You will have experiences that you've read about only happening to others in works of fiction. However, the difference this time is that you will be the main character.

For real. And you don't need to be a young stud muffin or have charismatic charm (it certainly doesn't hurt to have these qualities, but it isn't necessary either).

You can simply be you. The only real requirement is for you to want to have a good time. You will be surprised to find just how far a ready smile will take you.Thailand is all about having fun; a place where every night is Saturday night.

You may even discover a new you, that you are really an extrovert at heart; that you can say hello to a perfect stranger and receive a civil reply (this, from other fellow travelers.

As for the Thai girls, they will be far more than merely civil...)What is amazing is the different level of attention you receive over in Thailand. In the West, you may go to a club for the evening.

You'll approach girls or they will approach you, but half of the time you either don't click or you don't find them attractive. If you do find them attractive then you might swap numbers and talk for awhile or, if you're in especially good form that night, you might take them home, have sex, and that's it.

In the bars in Thailand the girls actually want to please, they want to massage you, they want to interact with you and they enjoy doing it.

I know what you're thinking, of course you're going to get attention, these girls are after your money and they'll do whatever it takes to get it whether your 22 or 72.

Be that as it may, it's not that simple.Women's lib hasn't made it over to Thailand. Thai girls aren't loud or brash; they are feminine and attentive. Treat your Thai girl with respect and attention (i.e., just be normal and treat her like a lady) and she will not be able to do enough for you.

She'll put toothpaste on the brush for you and wash your back. In bed she will wrap herself around you. Maybe even more than that. She might not allow you to put food on your plate in a buffet, insisting on doing it for you.

Or she might trim your already-shortened fingernails and clean your ears (you haven't lived until you have truly wax-free ears). She wants you to understand that she appreciates you.

Thai girls take care of their men and it's intoxicating.The sum of what Thailand offers is hard to beat: a rich, complex adventure fueled by randomness. Sit back and enjoy the ride.

One of the nice things about Thailand is that it truly is "Up to you" (you'll hear this phrase a lot). Many men, either by intent or by chance, do end up having relationships to some degree with the women they meet.

It's easy to the point of being natural.So why not combine travel with a relationship? You have everything to gain and only your heart to lose.

If you want to know more about Asian girls click here to read about Asian girls and visit my favourite pages :

Asian-Girls-Dating Homepage,

Asian Adult Dating,

Thai Girls

Best regards

Dao Jones

Dao Jones, the founder of Asian-Girls-Dating.com is connecting Asian girls to western men in a very unique and succesfull way.
Since 2001 she is giving dating and writing tips, as well as lots of information about the special caharcteristics of Asian women.

The Real Reasons You Have Hair Loss

This is a pretty good article to help you understand why hairloss occurs. There are several excellent hospitals in Bangkok that do a great job on hair transplants, permanent results that look good. Enigma The Real Reasons You Have Hair Loss Author: Rudy Silva Website: http://www.remedies-for-constipation.com

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All men have to face sooner or later and women too, usually later - hair loss. So, why does it occur and what can you do about it. If you look of the structure of your hair, you'll find at the very bottom of the hair shaft, the follicle, a bulb called the papilla.

The papilla is what creates and controls the formation of your hair and is the area that is filled with blood, which brings to the hair the nutrients it needs to grow.

It is through your genetics that hormonal messages are sent to the follicle cells and papilla on what type of hair you will have and when it will fall out.

These hormones are called androgens - testosterone is one of them. When testosterone reaches the papilla, it combines with an enzyme - 5-alpha reductase - which then changes to dihydrotestosterone, DHT.

It is DHT that causes hair loss by restricting the flow of blood into the papilla. Since women have more estrogen then men, they have less hair loss. It turns out that estrogen blocks the effects of DHT. But once women go through menopause, some of them produce less estrogen and they start to experience hair loss.

Despite your genetic tendency towards hair loss at a particular time in your life, it is possible to interrupt this process and reduce the speed at which you loose hair. If you do nothing to stop your hair loss, you will lose plenty, if not all.

Here are some common sense things to do to protect your hair:

When you have stressful times in your life, you can experience rapid hair loss. Knowing this, you can bring the level of stress back to normal and start a program to regain your hair. You're hair is not damaged and follicles are still open and your can recover your hair. If you keep stress levels up and do nothing to nourish your hair, you will lose much of your hair sooner than normal.

Hair will stop growing when you don't have the right nutrients in your blood. When your body is ill, terribly stressed, or nutrients are desperately need somewhere else in the body, the last place these nutrients will go is to your hair papilla. During these times, take a supplement that supplies the hair nutrients that you need.

Always wait for your hair to dry before combing it. At this time your hair is soft and can be easily damaged.

Excessive shampooing, with cheap shampoos, can dry out your hair. You can also damage your hair by vigorous shampooing, poor scalp massage, or rough towel hair drying.

Sunlight and chlorine can weaken your hair, so after swimming quickly wash your hair. In the sun, wear a hat or cap to avoid sun damage. In the shower, put a filter to get rid of the chlorine.

In all of the conditions listed above on how you lose hair, DHT included, or damage your hair, here's what it boils down to:

When you subject you hair to conditions that damage your hair, sebum - oil that lubricates your hair shaft - starts to build up in your follicles. As time passes, your follicles become blocked creating further damage to your hair and reducing your changes of these follicles growing hair.

This is why you have hair loss as you age or even at a young age. What your can do about this is discussed further in other articles or on my website.

Rudy Silva is a Natural Nutritionist. Go to his website to learn more about what you need to do to keep your hair healthy and from falling out. http://www.hair-loss-remedies.for--you.info

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About the Author:
Rudy Silva is a Natural Nutritionist. Go to his website to learn more about what you need to do to keep your hair healthy and from falling out. http://www.hair-loss-remedies.for--you.info

Removing Keloid Scars

REMOVING KELOID SCARS Author: Martha Fitzharris Website: www.naturalbioskincare.com

Keloid is the term used to describe the appearance of an unusual tissue that grows around the injured area of the skin. This happens while the healing process in the skin begins and collagen (cellular structure which accounts to the stretching ability of the skin) fills the damaged part of the skin.

Keloid happens when the tissue filling occurs in an overflowing proportion. In some way, the healing process was completed in an abnormal way. So, you may be very upset about the appearance of this skin problem, nobody wants to have skin blemishes. And they may affect person’s self esteem. Sometimes it could also carry some small problems like itching and some pain.

There’s really no scientific explanation about this type of abnormal healing process of the skin. However, it is noted that this commonly occurs in people of African or Asian origin, thus this leads to the conclusion that keloid scars are genetically acquired.

Types of injuries that would have a tendency on developing keloids include burns, surgery, injections, tatoos and piercing. If you already have a Keloid, you may be prone to developing more. A way to avoid this skin problem is to stay away from deep cut, wounds and operations.

Symptoms of Keloidal developing

- Itching or tenderness.

- Color that goes from very light pink to very dark.

- Firm, raised, hard scars.

But don’t worry about those ugly scars because now there’s a solution for improving keloids and other skin problems! Bio Skin Care Cream brings you the solution for those upsetting blemishes. This cream has ingredients which contains regenerating substances that promotes the natural healing process of the skin and healthy tissue remodeling, without overgrown cells.

Bio Skin Care Cream is made with only natural ingredients collected from the mucin of Chilean land snails (Helix Aspersa). The natural components of this cream gently activate SKIN RENEWAL and signal your neurological system to get rid of damaged skin cells and to replace them with new ones. The whole process is coordinated at the pace needed to restore a healthy and beautiful skin.









Looking for the best solution


Other options for removing keloid scars are corticosteroid injections, laser surgery, cryosurgery, etc. They all are invasive methods for improving skin blemishes. Let’s have a quick review so you can make an informed choice:

- Steroids injections treatment work by intensifying the activity of the collagen enzyme, which is the later responsible of breaking down collagen so that scars would slowly diminish its appearance.

- Silicone gel application is a process whereby a clear sheet of gel is applied to the injured area, wrap in cloth and fastened with bandage for at least twelve hours a day. With constant use, a flatter, much smoother keloid may result in a period of time that goes from two to twelve months. This process is usually repeated every two years.

- Mineral oil gel sheets are alternative to silicone gel application. This oil slowly melts into the skin thus giving the scar protection and moisture. This procedure is not recommended for open wounds.

- Laser methods may improve skin condition, but you have to know that they are very aggressive procedures. It is usually performed in combination of dermbrasion, or surgical excision.

- Dermbrasion is a type of process that includes the removing of the top layer of a scar with a high speed instrument, like a handheld laser or abrading tool. The scar will not completely disappear, but it will be less noticeable. This procedure must be performed by a plastic surgeon or qualify person.

- Z-plasty includes the repositioning of the scar so it lines up to the natural tissue healing of skin. As it is a surgery procedure, the old scar is removed and then incisions are made to create a flap in triangular shape. These flaps are then used to cover the wound in a "Z" pattern. And finally, with really fine stitches, the wound is closed.

Keloid scars can be inconvenient and upsetting, but they really don’t represent a vital risk. So, why go through all the hassles of surgery when you can look for a more natural and effective solution?

If you already have a Keloid you are prone to developing more of them in the future. Surgeries are very expensive and don’t really give you guarantees at all. Bette try with Bio Skin Care Cream, a solution that promotes the natural healing process of our skin, this way you will be able to improve and prevent future Keloids and ugly scars.

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About the Author:
Martha Fitzharris is a free lance journalist for http://www.naturalbioskincare.com a website offering a new biological natural skin care product that activates skin renewal for a healthy skin.

The History Of Thai Currency

The history of Thai currency – from ancient beads to modern By: Eric Lim

The history of Thailand currency traces the evolution of the medium of exchange used in Thailand prior to the 1st century. This dates from the days of barter trade, ancient beads and money in various shapes and sizes till the currency in modern times. Ancient beads, seeds, bracelets and pebbles used as a medium of exchange in the early days around 200 – 300 BC, have been discovered in Thailand, including old Roman copper coins dating back to 270 BC! During the 1st – 7th centuries, metallic coins of the Funan Kingdom in Indochina made their appearance in Thailand, followed by Dvaravati coins in the 7th – 11th centuries. This was followed by a period in the history of Thai currency when money in different shapes and sizes from various places were in use. Sandal wood flower coins or Dok Jan coins from the Sri Vijaya Kingdom in SE Asia were introduced in trade in the region in the 8th – 13th centuries. Cowrie shells and baked clay coins were also used from the pre- Sukhothai era until the reign of King Rama IV, when they were dropped from circulation. From the 14th – 19th centuries, coins from the Lanna Kingdom in the northern Thailand embossed with various designs were also in circulation. Around the same period, 15th – 19th centuries, Lanchang, the kingdom in northeastern Thailand introduced silver and copper pieces in long and narrow boat shapes. In the history of Thai currency, the money that was most enduring was Pot Duang or bullet money. This first appeared during the Sukhothai era, 13th – 14th centuries. Pot Duang money were hand-made coins. Metal strips were bent and folded into spheres very much like a bullet, thus the name, bullet money. Bullet money was in circulation for 600 years from the Sukhothai era to Rattanakosin until its withdrawal from circulation in 1904 during the reign of King Rama V. The most profound changes in the history of Thai currency occurred during the Rattankosin era in the reigns of King Rama IV and King Rama V. Standardized factory minted coins and printed bank notes were officially issued. During the reign of King Rama IV, when foreign trade and diplomatic relations expanded, the paper money, in the form of royal promissory notes, was issued in 1853. These were followed by bank notes issued by the foreign to facilitate trade clearance. In 1857, Queen Victoria of Britain presented Thailand with the first minting machine and the minting of the first Thai silver coins commenced. In 1858, a minting machine purchased from Britain and the Royal Mint was set up in the Grand Palace and the minting of coins went ahead full steam. In the reign of King Rama IV, money was denominated in satang, tho, phi, padueng and baht. During the reign of King Rama V, or King Chulalongkorn, coinage was streamlined. The numerous denominations were reduced to only two, satang and baht, based on the metric system, which remain till this day. Bank notes issued were in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 40,80, 100, 400 and 800 baht. Today, the denominations have been streamlined to 25, 50 satang coins, 1, 5, 10 baht coins and 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000 baht notes. The history of Thai currency goes back more than 1,000 years, evolving from ancient beads and bracelets to the modern baht that's in current use. The ancient beads, bullet money and old currencies can be viewed at the http://www.tour-bangkok-legacies.com/bank-of-thailand-museum.html"> Bank of Thailand Museum in Bang Khun Phrom Palace within the premises of the Central Bank of Thailand. About the Author http://www.tour-bangkok-legacies.com/history-of-thai-currency.html"> This article first appeared in http://www.tour-bangkok-legacies.com/"> Tour Bangkok Legacies, a historical travel site on people, places and events that shaped the landscape of Bangkok. The author, Eric Lim, is a free-lance writer who lives in Bangkok Thailand.

Street Food In Thailand..A Smorgasbord For All Senses

Street Food in Thailand...A Smorgasbord For All The Senses By: Carolyn Nantais

Like other Southeast Asian countries, food stalls are everywhere in the streets, markets and festivals of Thailand, providing an endless smorgasbord of aromas, color and flavors - food in Thailand is a feast for all of the senses. Picture a barbecue hotdog stand outside a North American sports stadium. Now, instead of hotdogs and buns sizzling on a grill, the food cart is laden with fresh bananas, which are slathered in batter and deep-fried to golden in a giant wok, then scooped into a paper bag like a super size order of extra thick homecut french fries. That was my first breakfast in Thailand while I watched hundreds of beautifully costumed elephants play soccer and tug-of-war in an annual Elephant Round-up in Surin, in the far northeast of the country! The next 'hotdog stand' does have a grill, placed over a large bin of charcoal, with flattened chicken quarters sizzling on sticks that you eat like a Popsicle; next door to that is yet another steel cart heaped with fresh, ripe pineapple, mango and papaya, and sporting a huge mortar and pestle for transforming the greener papayas into a crunchy, sweet-sour-spicy salad with morsels of shrimp or squid, chiles, garlic and sugar. What makes http://www.recipe-for-travel.com/thai-food.html">Thai food so delicious and distinctive among other Southeast Asian food is this unique blending of fresh herbs, spices and other ingredients that combine for a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salt and heat that leaves your mouth feeling clean and your tastebuds popping in the afterglow. Fresh fruit, salads and even soups and noodles are ladled into plastic bags with a skewer, fork, spoon or straw for eating on the go or perched on a folding chair at a nearby metal card table in the market. Thai buses and trains become moving picnic grounds, with everyone chatting, eating and sharing the fare hawked through the vehicles' windows at roadside stops and terminals: Gai Yang, the flattened barbecue chicken on a stick, skewered meat and fish balls and sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves. Carnivals and markets feature huge woks at knee-height, bubbling with deep-fried critters of all sorts, many unidentifiable. Are they grasshoppers? crickets? spiders? baby birds? small frogs? -- my mouth and eyes were constantly wide open in wonder and amazement! I spent an inordinate amount of time in the fresh produce and night food markets -- exuberantly fascinated and often visibly discombobulated, to the great amusement of the vendors and shoppers. After traversing every aisle of food carts and woks on my mission to find the freshest, most interesting and tasty-looking dishes, I was often met with earnestly shaking heads or "No, you don't want that - that's Thai food!" by English speaking cooks or bystanders when I pointed and gestured and tried to ask for a meal I knew I truly wanted. On my first such adventure, I did not know that the custom was for the cook to show the ladle with the amount of the garlic and chili for you to indicate how much you wanted: thinking she was simply asking if I wanted those Thai ingredients, I nodded vigorously at the heaped display, and in it all went! Yes, it was Thai food, and I enjoyed every sizzling touch to my lips under the watchful, laughing eyes of the vendors and bystanders who had gathered. I spent as much time learning about, admiring and experiencing the food as I did with major tourist attractions, often spending hours strolling through streets and markets taking in the sights and smells and sounds: quiet clucking rising up from a heap of vibrantly coloured roosters or hens tied together at the feet - a Thai rooster's plumage is extraordinarily beautiful; plastic tubs and buckets just full enough of murky grey water to keep the fish, frogs or turtles alive until a sale was clinched; mounds and mounds of green and red, and purple and orange; the pleasant stench of durian and jackfruit - pleasant because I was just so thrilled and in awe of it all! I tried deep-fried grasshoppers at a carnival in Kanchanaburi during a sound and light show of "The Bridge On The River Kwai" that ended with a fabulous fireworks display recreating the Allied bombing campaign that destroyed the bridges of the Death Railway in 1945. I tried a few tiny roasted wood worms offered by a very thin host in a northern hill-tribe village near the Myanmar border, and feared that I was eating his family out of house and home. I discovered countless traditional dishes I had never tasted and savoured authentic versions of some I had had in Toronto's newly arrived Thai restaurants. As often as I could, I watched their creation so that I could try to replicate them when I got home and got a kitchen again. Many people are alarmed at how daring I was with my stomach. In six months of traveling through Southeast Asia, I only had one tiny bout of queasiness over a couple of days on Sumatra in Indonesia. I must have found the perfect balance of common sense and adventure, or, some might argue, I was just lucky. I don't recommend trying everything, and I do recommend a few common sense tips for sampling the full range of the food on offer throughout your travels: * at street and market stalls, do watch the cooking for awhile to ensure that the ingredients are fresh and the food is being cooked thoroughly; if you have any doubts, move on to the next vendor * choose vendors that have a good steady flow of customers - not only is the food probably very good, but the turnover means fresher food * ask your guesthouse host and any other residents you meet for their favourite places to eat, and for recommendations on dishes to order * follow the other safe eating tips you find in travel guides, like recommendations about water, ice cubes, and peeling fruit and vegetables Of course, you will find an endless selection of sit-down restaurants where you can savour some of the more familiar Thai dishes now found in restaurants around the world: green curry with chicken, red curry with beef, pad Thai and other noodle dishes, and wonderfully aromatic sweet basil dishes. Whether you plan to sample the fabulous foods from the street vendors and markets or stick to what you know, learn a few tips on deciphering a menu or asking for a type of dish with a few http://www.recipe-for-travel.com/thai-food-terms.html">Thai Food Terms. Many supermarkets are now carrying a range of prepared sauces, curries and other Asian products, but if you enjoy adventure and creativity in your own kitchen, many Thai recipes are fairly easy to create once you've mastered a few essentials. Gai Yang, after all, is really just barbequed chicken with a Thai twist! A good food reference guide or cookbook with a glossary of Asian ingredients will help you gain that perfect balance of sour, sweet, salt and heat that is unique to Thai cuisine. © 2005 recipe-for-travel.com About the Author Carolyn Nantais is a freelance writer, website copywriter, world traveler and culinary xenophile who indulges in temporary retirement from time to time to travel and eat around the world. Her new website, http://www.recipe-for-travel.com">The Recipe for Travel, has stories, recipes and practical information gathered through adventures in round-the-world travel and food.

Professional Tips Against Jet Lag

Professional tips against jet lag By: Marcus Hochstadt

First of all please notice that some explanations in my article are from a “viewpoint” of European Times. You’ll know what I mean when you read my article. AND I am German and have some misspelled words, grammar and phrases. I’m still developing my skills, but just don’t look at this, look at the content itself, and you’ll be happy. ;-) So go ahead now, I just want you to recognize it. ;-) The biological clock of the body needs a while after a journey into another time belt, in order to adjust itself to the new rhythm. Physical and mental symptoms can occur here such as headache, listlessness or nausea, but none jet lag must be helplessly delivered. Daylight helps itself the cells, automatically to program on "Day". When you fly in direction to the east, for example to Thailand, it might be harder for you - you lose several hours. In order to prepare some days in advance for the new sleep rhythm, you should spend some time in the daylight in the early evening. During the flight it is advisable to sleep in advance. Then the adjustment goes faster. When you travel toward the west, approximately to the USA, you’ll have it easier. Nevertheless you should try to plan its arrival around noon time to get the brightest light of the day. Important appointments or activities at the arrival place you should plan at the time of day, at which you are most awake: After a flight in direction to the east in the evening, after a flight in direction to the west in the morning. Sleep on board Many humans have problems to fall asleep on the tiny seat in the airplane. Therefore in such a way some seizes to sleep pills or tranquilizers. This unnatural interference into the bio rhythm of the body affects negatively to your adjustment at recent time conditions. It is healthier to create yourself in the airplane as good sleep conditions as possible: Take yourself an inflatable neck cushion and an eye mask in the airplane. Some airlines distribute themselves these implements on board, but you shouldn’t rely on it however. Since feet often swell on a flight, it is advisable to take your shoes off and to carry yourself on a warm cosy pair of socks. Even if you feel yourself it’s not cold, you should cover yourselves before falling asleep with a light cover (you’ll get one by all long distance flights), so that you do not wake up freezing and protect yourself from a cold! I for myself know what I’m talking about. I have seen many people who underestimated this point and had a cold at their additional days after their flight. Never drink alcohol as your “falling-asleep-assistance” Tiny alcohol bottles on board often used as a falling asleep assistance during the flight. In the airplane these affect however - exactly the same as tranquilizers - three times as strongly as down on the earth! If you are suffering from fear of flight you should avoid alcohol here, since psychological symptoms can occur such as aggression or depression (however, this is an extensive subject. I will post an article about this in the future. For now I focus on “jet lag”). In addition alcohol supports the drainage of the body, which particularly begins fast on long distance flights. As consequence headache and listlessness appear. The air within an airplane is often drier than in the desert! While the air humidity of the Sahara amounts to about 20 per cent, it occurs at long distance flights that it falls below the ten-per cent border. Therefore you should drink much water during, before and after the flight. Professionals take beverages themselves In many cases the water on board isn’t particularly good-tasting and is served in containers by the size of an egg cup. You won’t to constantly trouble a flight attendant with your desires. Therefore take yourself also a large bottle of your preferential mineral water on board. Last but not least: my most important advice To the complete habituation time of your body the following rule of thumb applies: One day per hour time lag. With a difference of six hours that would be six days, until the biological clock of the body ticks in conformity with the time belt. When you then precautionary go to bed one our earlier/later per day, your body get used to the new daytime. Enjoy your trip to Germany! Much admiration Marcus http://www.smart-travel-germany.com>www.smart-travel-germany.com P.S. I'm hot to get to know your written travel experiences! Send them to me and, maybe, I'll post them on my website! About the Author Marcus Hochstadt travels extensively to countries, continents and Germany itself as a sales manager and entrepreneur since more than 14 years. He knows in almost each German city the points of REAL interest. Watch out for his free monthly special report with more valuable insider tips at http://www.smart-travel-germany.com/smart-travelogy-germ.html>www.smart-travel-germany.com/smart-travelogy-germ.html.

Hanging Around In Thailand

Hanging around in Thailand By: Gary Mortimer

Our trip to Thailand had been long awaited, originally planned for the winter of 94/95. My wife Karin had bought the maps and books and even packed; we were off. The balloon was ready at Thunder and Colt with a heavy duty basket tailor made for hard use overseas. And then they went bust. The delay meant that we missed the relatively short window available for flying in Thailand. So it was rainy old England for most of the winter and a rethink of the plan for us. I had been asked to go out there by Jon Nunns having previously worked for him in South Africa flying passenger ride balloons. Jon's interest in Thailand comes from several commercial tours he's probably had the most experience of flying in Thailand. Sky balloons agent in Thailand managed to sell one of the first balloons to roll off the production line to a pair of business men who wanted to learn to fly and fly advertising banners in I come again, this time to train and point them the right way. So after a fantastic summer passenger flying in England, it was off on a Quantas Jumbo from a snowy December Heathrow. We caught a connecting flight from Bangkok to Chaing Mai, a city in the North which was hosting the South East Asia Games, ( SEA games ) our first port of call. Jon, returning from SAGA, was there for three days to ease us into things. Our hosts had managed to find sponsor's a cell phone company and we had a busy schedule ahead. The city was humming with activity related to the games and it was great fun to be there. We generally flew across the city in the mornings and over the main stadium in the evenings. The stadium itself was about 10km from the centre of the city and lay under an east facing slope which of course moved into shade in the evening allowing us to fly over the stadium and away into open countryside, the mornings had the ability to take us up the slope and away to the west which was not a good idea as there was about 50km of forest and national park before the next road. It was always fairly calm and finding places to land was not a problem. We were not alone in the air a Carlsburg balloon had been shipped in from Europe and a Cameron Gas airship from America. Strangely neither thought to visit or call the international airport 8km south of the stadium. This caused some amount of trouble as Thai's love complicated permissions to fly and neither had any. As we did have permission we were contactable and received some amount of flack from their CAA. We smoothed the path quite well for them, prison was mentioned on more than one occasion! The airship did a fantastic job seemingly never out of the air and carrying a TV camera beaming live pictures from the stadium. During the evening we tethered next to the stadium and the airship still plodded around dropping leaflets. Thai's are football fanatics and the Asian cup was also held during the games in the evening. Our tethers coincided with all the home team games. As Thailand progressed through the ranks tickets sold out and it started to get ugly at the gates. For the semi final the fans burnt down the ticket tents in protest and several thousand extra tried to get in causing an outbreak of police brutality. We tethered high allowing us to see the matches and carried PR people, they tended to want to stay up a while as we had the best view in the house! On the first and last day of the games we flew into the stadium itself, the first flight by Jon, with me on board and the last by myself. What a fantastic feeling when you drop over the edge of the stadium roof and come to a dead stop amid all that noise and then pile out again, really good fun, it comes highly recommended! The flights over the city were also commendable. The airport required us to stay below 1000' and if we required to fly higher then we had to call them on VHF. It worked well and of course flying across temples at low level was fascinating. Chaing Mai old city lies within a square canel and contains some 300 temples in total. It was here that we aimed to overfly every day. The River Ping winds it's way to the east of the old city and was very handy for big direction changes. As a rule most wind directions could be found and staying over the city centre for an hour or so and then climbing and departing was fairly easy. I have to say that Northern Thai's seemed more fun loving than their Southern countrymen. To this end they enjoy letting off fireworks and tissue balloons carrying balls of burning rag to keep them aloft. Not uncommon to see 10 or so cross the night sky glowing red when drinking a beer. They climb quite high as well I flew with some at 3000'. On a couple of occasions, on landing villagers let off tissue balloons in our honour. They also flew bigger ones with strings of fireworks blasting away underneath. All good stuff for balloonists to watch. The last night of the games saw the launch of in excess of 1000 of these balloons in about 10 minutes from all around the stadium, and as it was a calm night it was the prettiest balloon thing I've ever seen. So once that was all over it was off to Bangkok eight hours South by road. Unbeknown to myself we had come to the notice of the Prime Ministers office and were sought out for a job! The deputy Prime Minister, Thakasin Shinawat, had said on coming into office early in 1995, that by the middle of January 1996 (or 2539 as it is over there) he would sort out Bangkoks traffic problems. He has been pouring millions of Baht of his own money into what is basically an impossible task. He has also been doing all sorts of stunts to show the people that he is trying to remedy the situation. We were asked to fly him over Bangkok to observe the traffic from the air, this being in their words, a low cost solution. Permissions obviously had to be sought. We were summoned for our first meeting with the CAA on Christmas Day, at 10 O'clock, everybody apparently finding it amusing that I was missing my Christmas day. On arriving it transpired that they didn't really want us to fly as it is a military state and they didn't want me to see anything I shouldn't. The Kings Palace is a no no to fly over as you should never have your head higher than his! However the civilian run Prime ministers office had put big pressure on and they felt they had to relent and by the way, what could we tell them about the other balloon and airship in Chaing Mai ( are you getting the picture that this is a warning). It transpired that we held the winning hand but they really had to tell us they did not like it first. There one and only request was that I didn't fly higher than 500'. Now what! a pleasure. Royal helicopters fly at 800' so that was that. I walked away on Christmas days with a piece of paper that ordered me to fly not above 500 AGL wherever I liked! A trip then to the tower at Bangkok International to let them know what was happening and pick up an air chart. They already knew all about us and wouldn't give me an air chart: military secrets and all that. If I'd known I could have brought them in England before we left! Thus it came to pass that I was doing balloon traffic reports over the city of Bangkok with the deputy Prime Minister on board and a film crew and five TV crews following through the traffic. We flew two days doing four flights. The flights themselves were pretty exciting to the point that I wouldn't rush to do them again. The tallest building is getting on for 1000' and we flew right between a bunch of them of course stopping all the traffic as we went. For those that know we launched from just above Siam Square and flew across generally towards the Queen Siriket Convention centre and then over the river. The 500' level became a real pain in the afternoons as the OAT was some 37C and thermals were popping off all over the place I may or may not actually flown quite a bit higher at the beginning of these flights and came down when it cooled down, but perhaps I'd set the altimeter incorrectly! So after all the fun and games it was off to train three people in total: our agent and the two business men. To start with we went off to Rayong a Province to the SE of Bangkok renowned for it's beach resort Pattaya. The guys for some reason where keen to train there. Unfortunately it proved too coastal and the sea breeze knocked out the evening flights and the land breeze in the mornings. Our permission was only for a 25 km square so we couldn't go any further inland. Not a problem as one of the guys had relatives with a farm near Kanchanaburi, home of the bridge over the river Kwai in the west of the country. It was here that most of the training was done. It was an ideal area for ballooning, being generally flat with occasional 5-600 foot hills popping up like islands. The fields are mainly of Sugar Cane roughly three quarters and the rest are rice paddies. Everything went fine and after three return trips to Bangkok on business the guys where ready. They will be travelling to England to take their PPL's shortly. One more surprise lay in store. Seeing as the flying into the stadium in Chaing Mai had gone so well I was asked to fly into another with a football to start The Thai football league. Not such a big deal but the stadium as 500 metres from the sea with houses all the way to it. Luck was on our side once more and after two days of strong monsoon winds on the day in question it was calm. We inflated behind a five story building which was right next to the stadium and bang on for the wind direction. The signal for us to launch was a series of fireworks the ninth being our go. At the practices which we couldn't fly into because of the wind we made sure that the marching bands had left and we had a clear stage. You know whats coming next.1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9 Go, we rose from behind the building to see that everybody was still stood there,down between them all I came our official hopped out with the football and handed it to the President of Yamaha and we quickly deflated the balloon,! no way was I going to fly out of that one! So thats briefly it, I haven't touched on the really infuriating stuff, the stuff thats supposed to add character afterwards. I'll let you find out all those bits for yourselves. If you are interested in going out there then the man to contact In fact the head man of the brand new Balloon Club Of Thailand is:- YUTAKIT WANICHANOND 125/135 CHANGWATANA ROAD PAKRET NONTABURI 11120 THAILAND FAX 584 0042 To update the story in June 04, the deputy Prime Minister became the Prime Minister and is poised to buy a share of Liverpool Football club in the UK. I have since flown in Australia, Kenya and am now back in South Africa with my own ride business. http://www.airborneadventuresafrica.com" target=new>http://www.airborneadventuresafrica.com Gary Mortimer Gary Mortimer A commercial hot air balloon pilot that has flown throughout the world. Currently living and working in South Africa. balloonsafaris@hotmail.com">balloonsafaris@hotmail.com

Asia Cruises: A Journey In The Exotic World

Asia Cruises: A Journey in the Exotic World By: Colin Hartness

An Asia cruise is a voyage of discovery, an experience of cultural extravaganza of Asian civilizations. Asia is biggest continent with the lengthiest coastline and the highest mountains of the world, the Himalayas. To explore the true majesty of its magnificent past, to experience the magnanimity of its religion and its people, embark on an Asia cruise. You will never ever forget the experience. The Asia cruise takes you to the opulence of Singapore & Hong Kong, definitely worth a look. The jungle temple in Thailand, the Konark temple of India, or the peaceful eyes of Buddha in Vietnam, redefine faith and religion of the believers and non-believers alike. The graceful dance forms of India, the Japanese tea ceremony or the Chinese theatre, all have enormous cultural significance that are part and parcel of the region’s tradition. You become a mute spectator of such enormous cultural and traditional fervor entwined in every walk of life, so similar to each other yet very distinct in its own right. The Asia cruise cruises along the Malaysian, Vietnamese and the Thai seas. Splurge yourselves with pretty gifts from the fabulous shopping arcades of Singapore, Dubai and Hong Kong. Be a part of a unique shopping experience with unbelievable discounts and promotional offers. Come to the Indian Hollywood, Bollywood, know what wholesome entertain can be by watching a Hindi film. Let your Asia cruise be a medium to explore the enchanting cultures and original landscapes with their own unique fervor and flavor. You can go on a Far East & south pacific cruise, a South East Asia cruise or an Asia & Middle East cruise. Every cruise has its own tale to tell its own mystery to unfold. After you have chosen the Asia cruise, you can expect quiet elegance and no over the top gimmicks. You can do your own thing at you own pace as if you are on a private villa. If you like to mind your own business you can jog a while, swim a leisurely lap or read a nice novel. You can take part in some activity join exercise classes get a soothing massage or enjoy a sauna. Some cruises even offer helicopter sightseeing, whitewater rafting, and nature walks etc. You can find spas, health clubs and even wedding chapels at your cruise ship. Special children play areas or centers are found with lots of games and entertainment. The cruise people often invite guest speaker to share their anecdotes mostly about the region you are sailing giving you interesting insights. Most of the cruises provide excellent service, every guest gets personalized attention. The dedicated and observant staff looks after you well. You can find any information you require from the staff like where to find souvenirs, where to shop of local handicrafts or where to find nice restaurants. The Asia cruises have special entertainment areas that offer real entertainment from special theme events, hilarious comedies, and melodious musicals to exquisite dance performances that leave you spell bound. And spellbound and mesmerized you will be when your Asia cruise journey ends. Surely and truly, you will be a transformed person if you take all the experiences to your heart. About the Author Looking for information about cruises? Go to: http://www.whatcruises.com 'What Cruises' is published by Colin Hartness - An excellent resource for Cruises! Check out more cruise articles at: http://www.whatcruises.com/archive

History Of Thai Food

The History of Thai Food By: Andrew Hall

Thai food is famous all over the world. Whether chilli-hot or comparatively bland, harmony and contrast are the guiding principles behind each dish. Thai cuisine is essentially a marriage of centuries-old Eastern and Western influences harmoniously combined into something uniquely Thai. Characteristics of Thai food depend on who cooks it, for whom it is cooked, for what occasion, and where it is cooked. Dishes can be refined and adjusted to suit all tastes. The 'Tai' people migrated from valley settlements in the mountainous region of Southwest China (now Yunnan province) between the sixth and thirteenth centuries, into what is now known as Thailand, Laos, the Shan States of upper Burma, and northwest Vietnam. Influenced by Chinese cooking techniques, Thai cuisine flourished with the rich biodiversity of the Thai peninsula. As a result, Thai dishes today have some similarities to Szechwan Chinese dishes. Originally, Thai cooking reflected the characteristics of a waterborne lifestyle. Aquatic animals, plant and herbs were major ingredients. Subsequent influences introduced the use of sizeable chunks to Thai cooking. With their Buddhist background, Thais shunned the use of large animals in big chunks. Big cuts of meat were shredded and blended with herbs and spices. Traditional Thai cooking methods were stewing and baking, or grilling. Chinese influences saw the introduction of frying, stir-frying and deep-frying. Culinary influences from the 17th century onwards included Portuguese, Dutch, French and Japanese techniques. Chillies were introduced to Thai cooking during the late 1600s by Portuguese missionaries who had acquired a taste for them while serving in South America. Thais were very adapt at adapting foreign cooking methods, and substituting ingredients. The ghee used in Indian cooking was replaced by coconut oil, and coconut milk substituted for other dairy products. Overpowering pure spices were toned down and enhanced by fresh herbs such as lemon grass and galanga. Eventually, fewer and less spices were used in Thai curries, while the use of fresh herbs increased. It is generally acknowledged that Thai curries burn intensely, but briefly, whereas other curries, with strong spices, burn for longer periods. Instead of serving dishes in courses, a Thai meal is served all at once, permitting diners to enjoy complementory combinations of different tastes. A proper Thai meal should consist of a soup, a curry dish with condiments, a dip with accompanying fish and vegetables. A spiced salad may replace the curry dish. The soup can also be spicy, but the curry should be replaced by a non-spiced item. There must be harmony of tastes and textures within individual dishes and the entire meal. Andrew Hall http://www.all-free-recipes.com" target=new>http://www.all-free-recipes.com

Cheap Travel Secrets

Cheap International Travel Secrets By: Steve Gillman

What is the real secret to cheap international travel? It is the same as the secret to doing anything for less. Learn to be an opportunist. Opportunistic travelers get to travel more, see more and do more. Of course, you can ignore this advice if you have unlimited funds. I went to Ecuador because it was cheap. Honestly, aren't there many interesting places in this world? Why not choose one you can travel to inexpensively? The other places will be there in the future, and you may have an opportunity to go to those places cheaply at some point. Cheap Countries Ecuador is my favorite international destination. You can still get a decent meal for two dollars. U.S. dollars, by the way, since that's conveniently the official currency of Ecuador now. From the beautiful snow-capped Andes mountains, to the Galapagos Islands, you'll never run out of places to explore in Ecuador. Travel there is safe and inexpensive. South America in general is inexpensive, and the most affordable countries are, in my opinion, the most beautiful. These are the countries along the Andes mountains; Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. Argentina, thanks to it's recent economic troubles, is once again a cheap place for travelers as well. In Central America, it costs very little to travel and vacation in both Nicaragua and Guatemala. Nicaragua, in particular, has become more stable and safe for travelers in recent years. Costa Rica is a wonderful too, and though it is one of more expensive counties of Central America, that probably still leaves it cheaper than Europe. In Asia, India is still low-cost, especially if you stay in the numerous hostels and boarding houses. Thailand and Indonesia are also very cheap. With all international destinations, the plane tickets will be your single biggest travel expense. This is especially true with the asian countries. Being there is cheap, but getting there may not be. Cheap International Travel Tips Wherever you go, there are things you can do to keep it cheap. Eat where locals eat, for example, instead of at the tourist restaurants. To keep it really cheap, eat fruit from street markets (wash it well) and packaged snacks from grocery stores. Visit the free and cheap attractions first. It's possible you'll have so much fun that you'll never get around to doing the expensive things. A higher price means better quality with travel bags, but not with travel experiences. Busses are cheaper than taxis in any country, but be careful of crowded city busses, where pickpockets hang out. Walking is even cheaper, and it's a great way to learn about a city. Just ask the locals where the dangerous parts are before you wander too far. For cheap accommodations find out where local visitors from within the country stay. Negotiating room charges is common in some areas. In Banos, Ecuador, we negotiated our room rate down from $12 to $6 per night, by paying for several nights in advance. Consider hostels, if you don't mind sharing a room. They're much more common overseas. Cheap international travel is often only as cheap as your plane tickets. Use the techniques outlined on our site to save big on tickets, or search the fares to several interesting countries. If one is $500 less than the others, consider going there. $500 can buy a few extra days, or an extra mini-vacation some other time. About the Author Steve Gillman hit the road at sixteen, and traveled the U.S. and Mexico alone at 17. Now 40, he travels with his wife Ana, whom he met in Ecuador. To read their stories, tips and travel information, visit: http://www.everythingabouttravel.com">http://www.EverythingAboutTravel.com">http://www.EverythingAboutTravel.com

Pattaya Thailand Travel Information Tips

Thailand By: Bruno Vincent

Pattaya Thailand travel information and tips. Accommodations: Pattaya has many types of accommodations available at many different prices. Hotels, condos, guest houses and rental homes are available by the day, the week, the month or the year. Hotels / Guest Houses: The best way to find clean cheap hotels in Pattaya is to stay of the beaten path. Anything on Beach road will be both expensive and dirty, the same goes for 2nd road. Amazingly enough, in Pattaya, a more expensive hotel doesn't necessarily guarantee you a higher quality room. The right hotels have nice rooms for the same price. You can expect to pay about 500 baht per night for a nice room. Hot water, daily change of sheets, safe, and 24 hours security are included. The deposit is usually about 1000 baht. Cheaper rooms can be had for 250 baht with no air conditioning, I would not recommend these hotels unless you are a budget traveler, they are usually decrepit with no windows. If money isn't a big issue you can also stay in posh western hotels They will cost you over 1000 baht per night but will be of world class standard. Condos: Condos are basically studio apartments. They are furnished and cost on average about 12 000-16 000 baht per month. Electricity and water are not included but you can expect to pay an extra 1000 - 2000 baht per month extra. Condos are fully furnished and include cable TV. Cell phones: If you plan to stay here for more than 2 weeks, getting a cell phone is recommended (unless you are traveling with your family), you will meet many new friends in Pattaya and cell phones can help you get in touch with them. A used cell phone will cost you about 1000 baht, a good one as high as 15 000 baht. In Thailand electronics carry the same price tag as in the West since the products are imported from Japan. Motorcycle rentals: Pattaya has numerous motorcycle rental outfits. You can rent anything from a 125 cc moped to a 1300 cc sport bike. The cost is 150 baht per day for the 125 and 500-1000 baht per day for the big sport bikes. Insurance is sometimes included but not always...you have to ask individual shops about it. You don't need an international driver's license although it is recommended. Food: Thai food is very cheap but also very spicy although not all of it. Price varies from 10 - 50 baht with an average of 20 baht a meal. The best way to order is to go to a restaurant that has pictures on the menu. Western fair meals will run you about 150 baht on average, there are plenty of them in Pattaya. Tap water is unsafe to drink but bottled water can be bought at only 5 baht a bottle. Health: No vaccination is required but Hepatitis A shots are recommended since the sanitation in small establishments isn't always the best. You should purchase some extra insurance just in case something happens, although a hospital visit is only 30 baht for Thai people, it could be very expensive for foreigners. Weather: Perfect, perfect and perfect. Pretty much always sunny, when it does rain it's only for about an hour or so. You won't need to bring your umbrella! The temperature varies from about 25-25 degrees on average. You never get cold in Pattaya. Things to do: High speed go Karts 500 baht / 10 minutes Jet skiing 600 baht / 30 minutes Tiger Zoo 400 baht Chinese museum 70 baht Pattaya Park waterslides 100 baht Movies 100 baht Bruno Vincent info@novatranz.com Source: http://www.isnare.com">www.isnare.com

Travel Safety In Mexico

Travel Safety In Mexico

On my first visit to Mexico I expected to see Pancho Villa complete with sombrero, bullets crossing his chest and guns at the ready. Imagine my surprise to find a Mexico that is just as modern as places in the USA.

As modern as some areas are, there are dangers to the unwary traveller. Start with crossing the border. If flying you will be given paperwork to fill out on the plane giving you a 30 day travel visa. As you go through immigration this will be checked, along with your passport. Make sure your passport is up to date and that your picture looks like you. Due to terrorist threats immigration now takes a much more pro-active approach. Once through immigration you will be sent to an area that will give you a green light or a red light. Green you go right through, red your bags get searched. If you are carrying prescriptions, make sure you have a copy of your prescription form from the pharmacy. Narcotics are tightly controlled in Mexico and they could be confiscated. I suggest separating your medication. Carry some in your luggage and some on your person. It is unlikely that both would be checked and confiscated. Once pass this checkpoint you are on your way.

If you are taking a taxi from the airport to where you are staying be aware that some taxi drivers drive like they are competing in the Indy 500. Learn some Spanish so that you can tell your driver, do not drive fast. "no maneje r pidamente" If you can't pronounce it, write it on paper and give it to the driver. If possible ask your hotel to send a driver for you. You will then know it is a driver you can trust.

If you are driving into Mexico, you will need your insurance papers, car ownership, with no liens against it, drivers license, passport and a credit card. You will also need 3 copies of all paperwork. Have them beforehand in case there is no photocopier at immigration. Your credit card will be charged a fee to register it as a visitor vehicle in Mexico and you will receive a sticker in return. Affix this to your car window. You will need to turn it in when you go back so do not lose it. You will also need it on your windshield at all times while driving in Mexico. This means you brought your car in legally. As you pass through immigration "Checkpoint Charlie" you will go through the red light, green light scenario as described above. Once through you are on your way.

Driving in Mexico is just like anywhere else except that signs will be in Spanish and speeds are posted in KM. Defensive driving is a must in Mexico as many Mexicans are speed demons and quite reckless. 66% of Mexicans do not carry car insurance and often flee the scene of an accident. Your car insurance for travel in Mexico should be full coverage and include a lawyer, emergency numbers, and a bond in case of an accident. If you have an accident in Mexico and there are any injuries, no matter how slight, you will be arrested. This is why you need access to a lawyer, bond and an adjuster immediately. They will bail you out. Mexican law is Napolonic and you are guilty until proven innocent. While driving in Mexico it is best to stay on the toll roads. First, they are in excellent condition and secondly there is always help available from the "Green Angles" should you experience problems. They patrol the roads and you should see them every hour or two.

Other things to watch out for are people passing on hills and around curves. It is quite common so be aware of what you might face going over a hill or around a curve. As you drive along and see crosses on the side of the road, these are where accidents have happened and families have marked the spot where their loved ones spirit departed. Cattle, horses, donkeys and goats are also familiar scenes on the road. I do not recommended driving at night as animals often sleep on the roads to seeks heat from the pavement. Night driving can be a harrowing experience.

Gas stations are few and far between. When you see one, get gas. At gas stations, a favorite trick is to not roll back the pesos to $0 and the attendant might try to charge you more than you actually received. The way around this is to always ask for 200 pesos. "doscientos pesos por favor". All stations are government owned and the attendant always pumps your gas and may clean your windows, check tire pressure and oil. If an attendant does these things for you, a common tip is 5-10 pesos. These men make meager wages and appreciate the tips. Next is bathrooms. Most gas station bathrooms in Mexico are not very clean, to put it mildly. Before you cross the border buy some Huggies Baby Wipes. You will need them. As I travelled in Mexico I realized the great outdoors was far cleaner than most bathrooms. Don't be surprised at a rest stops to have to pay for toilet paper. It's a common practice.

The next road tip is police. They target tourists and try to charge them for infractions they did not commit. Don't argue with them. They can cause you more grief than you want. Try to negotiate their "help" in resolving the issue. Start at 50 pesos and bargain from there. It's expected.

There have been rumors of foreign vehicles being seized. The only authority allowed to do this is Aduana (Customs), and Administracion Local de Auditoria Fiscal Federal. No other authority can do this. Traffic Police, City Police, the Federal police, or the Military have no right to seize your car. The only way they can do anything with foreign plated vehicles is with permission from Aduana or Administracion Local de Auditoria Fiscal Federal.

With this said, know your rights. These other authorities cannot even ask for importation papers as it is not within their responsibility. If you are threatened by these other authorities about the status of your vehicle, or even your migratory status, record as much information about this authority as possible. Name, badge number, date, officer's vehicle type, officer's vehicle license and unit number, etc. The Aduana is very clear on this and wants everyone possible to report such issues to the proper authorities. Most of these authorities will back off once they know they you know your rights and start recording this information about them.

Another major concern is what papers are necessary to carry in the vehicle. The Aduana advises to carry only copies of all pertinent papers concerning your migratory status and the vehicle. For example, have a copy of your passport, your migratory status with the current renewal date, the car importation permit, your title, registration, and insurance papers. Never leave originals in the car in case the car is stolen. You will need those originals.

Should you find yourself lost in a city or town it is common practice to hail a cab, tell him where you want to go and then follow him. For a small fee he will take you and save you a lot of time and headaches trying to find your way.

One last tip for the road. If you need overnight accommodation you should know that motels are normally used by the "hour", and hotels are for overnight guests.

If you are a tourist who has flown in and have now left the airport and arrived at your destination it's time to be aware of other safety issues.

Don't Drink Water. No matter where you go or how safe it looks, do not drink the water. And it's not just the water you need to be concerned about, but the glass and how it was washed. Make sure it is dry and as often as possible drink using a straw, also known as "uno popote". Do not drink coke from cans or bottles. You don't know what kind of water they have been chilled in. Normally ice cubes that have a hole in them are safe but even then I might opt to have no ice. Do not eat salads. You don't know what kind of water they have been washed in. Do not eat fresh fruit. Even a banana can have salmonella on the outside where you place your fingers to peel and then use the same fingers to eat it. All fruit and vegetables must have been cleaned in water treated with special chemicals to destroy bacteria. Eggs are the next big worry. I would not order eggs unless scrambled or boiled or looking extremely well cooked. Do not eat from roadside stands. The chance for ecoli, salmonella or typhoid is just too great. Eat in places that look clean, safe and where other gringos are eating. Take plastic cutlery with you or make very sure your cutlery is very clean. While in Mexico go to a pharmacy and get parasite medication and when you return home take it. It is very easy to pick up parasites in Mexico and this is a common and easy way to stay safe once you are home. Consult your doctor if you are not comfortable with over the counter medication.

Walking the streets. As in all cities, the street can be a dangerous place. Even in small towns in Mexico one should always be just as vigilant as you would be at home. Do not be lulled into a false sense of security because you are in a charming small town. Women should not carry a purse. Carry only necessities in your pockets or in a waist pouch. Do not keep all your money in one spot in case you are robbed. The "mustard" or "ketchup" bandits exist in Mexico just as they do in cities north of the border. Be aware of anyone trying to help you clean something off. It may be innocent, but be aware it may not. The same holds true for car problems. The most common trick is to puncture a tire and then follow you and offer assistance. While offering assistance someone else could be robbing your items in the car.

When in stores, try to use cash as much as possible. A lot of places do not take credit cards and if they do, be prepared to provide passports, drivers license and your visa documents. Don't be surprised if your bank refuses the charges. Unless you have told them to expect charges from Mexico they are likely to put a hold on your credit card.

Bank machines are another area for caution. It is common for machines to eat your card. Try to have a second card with you if possible or use a machine where you swipe your card and not have it actually go into the machine. Be aware of those around you as you withdraw cash. It is not uncommon for someone to be watching the machines in a tourist area. Don't be surprised to also see armed guards carrying rifles standing around the machines. It too is common practice.

Always keep copies of all cards in your wallet and all documentation that allowed you into the country. With copies you will find it much easier to get them replaced if you have copies. Know exactly where the consulate for your country is and their phone number. They can be very helpful in an emergency.

If you get sick while in Mexico, make sure your hotel gets you a translator so you can converse with the doctor or hospital should it become necessary. Know too that most hospitals will request cash or a credit card before they treat you. Look into insurance that will fly you out of the country to your home town should it become necessary.

I really recommend finding a tour guide while you are in Mexico. They don't cost much and can be enormous help to you no matter what situation you are in, not to mention they know the best places to visit and eat.

Due to economic crisis Mexico is riddled with crime. Travel agents will not tell you this so being prepared is half the battle. Last year ABC news reported that local news cameras watched armed bandits work in the open, using their guns to stop cars so they could rob the passengers. On another street, a team of muggers operated with apparent impunity, leaving a man unconscious in broad daylight. Just 15 minutes later, the same group attacks another victim, and during it all, a police officer stands just a few yards away. In fact, widespread police corruption is a big part of the problem. Mexico is actively working on this problem but it can and does happen. This is another reason to have a guide while in country. They know what is going on and can steer you in the right direction. The US State Department considers the situation in Mexico City so serious it has issued a critical public announcement warning travelers never to hail taxies on the streets of Mexico City. At all times in Mexico, be it the interior or the coastal vacation spots, never travel alone.

For the most part Mexico is a wonderful, inexpensive travel destination. Being aware of the dangers ahead of time will help to ensure a safe and fun vacation.

Article Source: http://www.content-edge.com

Jean Sutherland is a travel expert and lived in Mexico for three years. She also runs the popular Spas Of The World website at: www.spasoftheworld.com

Bringing It Home: Going Through Customs Made Easy

With so many great souvenirs found throughout the islands, it's no wonder Caribbean travelers are often curious about passing through customs. The question many travelers ask is how to bring these purchased items back into their home country. With a little knowledge, and the right paperwork, passing through customs can be easier than you think.

Each Caribbean island is different, so you'll find plenty of variations in the laws you'll find throughout the region. Each island will also have its own popular native goods as well. Knowing which items are permitted to be brought out of the country and which are not will protect you from additional fees or lost goods.

Leaving Town

When leaving home to enter the Caribbean, some travelers document their prior possessions, registering them with a Certificate of Registration or similar form available through your home customs office. Make a note of serial numbers and other permanent markings on such forms to keep customs agents from being concerned about your personal items.

If you are in need of prescription medication, bring your doctor's prescription with you while you travel. This will help ensure an easy, no-questions-asked trip through customs and can also help if you accidentally lose your medication during your trip. However, remember that the many so-called "recreational" drugs are usually illegal throughout the Caribbean as well, and traveling with them is not permitted.

Return Trip

Going through customs on the way home can be equally taxing, so you may want to remember to bring important items, such as receipts. Whenever you receive receipts for souvenir purchases, keep them. They can be especially helpful when passing through customs.

Native goods may include perishables, such as cigars, liquor, and coffee. Hot sauces are also popular on some islands, and the quantity of these goods you may bring home is usually limited by your home country. However, goods are mostly limited by a monetary amount, after which point they may be taxed. So if you're looking to pick up duty-free goods, be especially careful of the upper limits allowed back into the country.

When returning home, U.S. citizens should plan to bring along no more than $800(USD) in merchandise from most Caribbean countries. American vacationers returning to the mainland from the U.S. Virgin Islands may bring in twice the amount of goods. Remember, you can often mail souvenirs and other items home, or you may even mail your own personal items that you won't need immediately when you return, which can help you save space for packing.

So if you're looking for sure-fire ways to pass easily through customs, know the rules before you go. Don't forget to bring and keep any paperwork that will account for your belongings during your journey. With these rules in mind, passing through customs from the Caribbean should be a breeze.

Article Source: http://www.content-edge.com

Jennifer Smith writes for Belize-Guide.info, Anguilla-Guide.info, and other Segisys travel Web sites.

© 2005, Interactive Internet Websites, Inc.
Article may only be reprinted if it is not modified in any way, and if all links remain live.

Why Is Hoodia Such A Sought After Weight Loss Product

Hoodia Gordonii is an unambitious little South African desert cactus type plant that has a big future ahead of it. A gift from the native San people who live in the Kalahari Desert in South Africa, this tiny plant the natives' call "Xhoba" has already began impacting the world of weight loss with its extraordinary hunger stopping traits. What the Aboriginal San Bushmen have known for a long time and the rest of us are merely beginning to realize is that Hoodia has appetite suppressant qualities distinguished by plant scientists and named P57. This P57 active element has been examined, tested and identified to have the power to reduce calorie intake by up to 1,000 calories a day.

So will any South African cactus do when it comes to helping you to stay away from snacks? Indeed not, don't go to the local florist and buy yourself a desert cactus to eat. Of the succulent and asclepiad genus there are 2,000 species of ascleoiadaceae, divided into 300 genera, half from the succulent category. Hoodia Pseudolithos and Trichocaulon are members of the Trichocaulon sub-section from the Kalahari Desert region of S. Africa that touches Angola, Botswana and Namibia. Hoodia Gordonii is the name of the cactus you will want to get but don't plan on taking a outing to the South Africa and getting some Hoodia cacti for yourself; the Hoodia desert cactus are under strict control by the S. African government. It is considered an endangered plant and only Hoodia cactus farmers with certification may produce and sell the Hoodia.

Can Hoodia affect the world's obesity problem and help the planet be a slimmer place? Business organizations including, Council for Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), Phytopharm, Pfizer and most recently Slim Fast all believe so. All of these companies have banked on Hoodia's success and together have invested millions of dollars, wanting to corner the marketplace on weight loss. Looking at Hoodia's journey from Xhoba, plant of The San Bushmen to being today's miracle plant for weight loss we need to first look at where Hoodia's been over the past thirty plus years. The greatest amount of time, CSIR analyzed Hoodia to isolate the molecule p57, once they eventually obtained it; they then sold the rights of p57 to Phytopharm. In 1998 The Phytopharm Company leased marketing rights to Pfizer, who invested thirty-two million only to subsequently drop out of the scene because p57 was too expensive to synthesize as a pill. Pfizer's situation has now been taken over by The Unilever Corporation, the parent company of Slim Fast. Slim Fast at present plans on delivering a Hoodia weight loss supplement to nutritional stores in a couple years.

Almost a year ago, on November of 2004, the Hoodia plant contracted big media coverage when CBS's Sixty Minutes did a show on Hoodia's appetite suppressant qualities. With the 60 minute TV exposure, Hoodia was now wanted plant by dieters all-round the globe. People having a hard time staying on their diets desired Hoodia now, not in a couple of years, the secret was out and Hoodia was becoming an indispensable plant. I'm sure after that 60 minutes program was aired, numbers of dieters looked into moving to the Kalahari Desert and making themselves a tiny Hoodia garden of their very own. Luckily, as it is today there isn't a reason to go to that extent, where there is a consumer need; there are many businesses happy to fill that request. There were a few businesses that were informed of Hoodia before the news coverage broke and were in the right place at the right time. It didn't take long though for numerous other organizations to create associations with South African Hoodia Gordonii growers and get Hoodia supplements into stores.
Nowadays there are numerous brands marketing both Hoodia powder form and extracts; how long will the Hoodia plant supply last is the question on dieter's minds right now. The Hoodia Gordonii succulent is a very hard plant to grow; the plants need very much care and management with irrigating, temperature and sunshine. Where it stands today there are only a couple of Hoodia harvesting centers in the South Africa and the Hoodia plant takes two to three years before it's ready to be exported. Taking this into account, the multi-million dollar question is, for how many months can the Hoodia succulent plant export continue? Because of this situation buyers should be aware if the Hoodia they are getting has been independently tested and certified to be pure Hoodia Gordonii from South Africa. There are companies out there taking advantage of the great demand and interest in Hoodia and supplying a low quality product.

Article Source: http://www.content-edge.com

Andrew Aitaken is a contributing writer for the Totalink Directory. More information about the purity of hoodia, weight loss effectiveness of hoodia, side effects of hoodia and Please Rate this Article

5 Easy Ways To Pamper Yourself

Life is so busy and as mothers we spend so much time tending to the needs of others and pampering others that we sometimes neglect to pamper ourselves.

Here are 5 easy and fun ways to pamper yourself and nurture your mind, body and spirit:

1 - Wake up before the others in the house do and flip through a magazine or simply sip on a hot cup of coffee or tea and enjoy a few uninterrupted moments before the day fully begins.

2 - Weather permitting, take a nice walk and just enjoy your surroundings. Take note of all the beauty that is surrounding you.

3 - Take short breaks during your day whether you are a stay at home mom, work at home mom or work outside of the home, try doing something for yourself periodically throughout the day. You can close your eyes and daydream, browse through the paper or simply have a short friendly chat with a friend.

4 - Treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure or even a new hairstyle. We often are so used to treating others that we forget to treat ourselves and forget to let others pamper us.

5 - Take a nice long warm bubble bath. Fill your mind and senses with a nice fragrance and just soak for as long as you can.

It is truly amazing at how pampering yourself will rejuvenate you!

Take Care,
Aurelia

Article Source: http://www.content-edge.com

Aurelia Williams is the mom of four busy children, a Personal Life Coach and the owner of Real Life Solutions, which is an informational site that also offers products, articles and a great newsletter. You can also hear Aurelia daily on the WAHM Talk Radio show, she is the Resident Life Coach.

Hurricane Season Travel Isnt What You Think

The tropics have drawn worldwide attention due to the recent surge of damaging hurricanes. However, hurricane season is still a popular time for many travelers looking to visit the Caribbean and surrounding areas. While some may wonder why people would knowingly put themselves in the path of such danger, the benefits of traveling during this season can often outweigh the risks.

Know the Facts

The months of June through November make up what is considered to be Hurricane Season in the Atlantic. During this season tropical storms can change into fast-moving storm systems that can severely damage property if they reach land.

Remember, however, that that not every storm makes landfall and not every strong storm turns into a hurricane. Tropical storms and even tropical depressions can make landfall and cause tornadoes and flooding problems, but are far less severe than those caused by hurricanes.

Keep a watch on the later months of hurricane season, which typically bring the strongest storms. September and October, for example, see the number and intensity of such storms peak, while strong or damaging strikes are rare in the early months of the season.

Why Travel Off-Season?

While many travelers take their chances in the tropics during hurricane season, some may be deterred. Most vacationers are rewarded for their gamble with the relaxation of a Caribbean vacation, without worry at all.

The most highly recognized benefit to off-season travel is cost. While travel during hurricane season may be risky, extremely low-cost vacationing is also possible. Hotels cut rates, sometimes even in half, and tour operators, airlines, and rental companies usually follow suit.

With children on break from school in the summer months, June, July, and August, the beginning of hurricane season is widely regarded as the perfect time for a family vacation. And, of course, travel in the early portion of the hurricane season reduces the chances of being affected by storms.

Travelers looking for a little space on their Caribbean travels will find off-season vacationing a breath of fresh air. While there may be reduced hours at some island attractions, travelers who prefer a little more space on the beach may not mind a few abbreviated hours.

Place Particulars

Even if travel during the Hurricane Season doesn't worry you, there are a few ways to help eliminate some of the risk. Choice of destination is an important step many overlook. The southern Caribbean usually avoids the brunt of hurricane season. In fact, there is a “hurricane zone” through which most of these storms pass. Islands outside this zone are hit far less often.

The best-known of these hurricane-deterring islands are the “ABC” Islands. These Dutch territories - Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao - are located just north of the coast of Venezuela, and each offer Caribbean flair without the threat of tropical danger.

Another way to prepare for island travel is to check out the hurricane policy of the hotel you choose to book. Many hotels, especially those in the middle of the hurricane zone, have hurricane policies offering complimentary stays for the same number of nights the following year, or other, similar plans to help ease the sting of a disrupted vacation.

Vacationers come back every year, despite hurricanes' Caribbean troublemaking. With so many benefits, why not?

Article Source: http://www.content-edge.com

Jennifer Smith writes for Anguilla-Guide.info, Saba-Guide.info, and other Segisys travel Web sites.

© 2005, Interactive Internet Websites, Inc.
Article may only be reprinted if it is not modified in any way, and if all links remain live.