The holiday season is upon us, which for many people means long days of travel amid grumpy people and massive lines. Whether you're flitting across town or hopping a plane across the country to see friends and family, music will always be a great source of comfort and company. Flight delays, traffic and tight quarters are all par for the course, but thanks to the magic of music you could remain calm and content in your own little world. Of course you've got to hit the road with the proper supplies. So here are a few quick tips to help you create a great music playlist for your travels.

First of all, variety is the spice of life. Even your all-time favorite album will get a bit tiresome if you put it on replay for a flight from New York to London. You've got to mix up the styles, the decades and the artists, so each time through you can find something fresh to hold your interest. Always create a new playlist before you head off on your travels, to make sure you're not stuck with the same music you've been listening to over and over all month. And the more variety the better off you'll be.

That being said, setting your playlist on 'random' isn't always the best way to go. There are two different options you could choose instead that will help you pass the time and maintain interest in your collection. First of all, consider playing full albums. Set up a playlist that incorporates a variety of different artists, but always play their albums in full before moving on to the next one. That way you won't burn through all of the singles during the first leg of your

Europe is a wonderful place to travel, whether you were born and raised there or have spent the majority of your life across the pond, in America. Those who are lucky enough to live in Europe have access to a veritable patchwork of different customs and cultures at their fingertips. Many of us, however, live in America -- as such, getting to take a trip to Europe can really seem like an extravagant occasion, and might very well be one of those times where it's OK to go all-out on a vacation and really pull out all the stops in terms of luxury. In fact, if you're really hoping to get luxurious on your next vacation, Europe is absolutely one of the best places in which you could possibly hope to do it. There are all kinds of amazing locations and gorgeous sights to take in when you're traveling abroad, and we'll talk about the top five luxury travel destinations that you should be sure to take in the next time you decide to visit Europe.

1. France. High fashion and elevated culture were practically invented in France, so if you're looking for some serious luxury, you can definitely enjoy some of the finer things in life when you're there. You have access to everything from incredible dining experiences to ancient and historic monuments...not to mention sites that boast statues and fountains the likes of which might never be found anywhere else. For some serious culture, you can visit France and really enjoy some European luxury.

2. The Sicilian Coast. Do you love food? Who doesn't?! If you're a food person, you might want to hit up Italy for your next vacation, and the Sicilian Coast is home to some of the most beautiful sights and some of the most delectable food that you could ever hope to find. You might even find the culture to be a little more welcoming, and won't have to worry about dealing with anyone too incredibly uptight.

3. Spain. One of the most laid-back countries in the entire world, Spain offers some serious cuisine, incredible culture, and some of the most impressive modern art in the entire world. You can have a great siesta in the afternoon and then enjoy a delightfully late dinner as you take in some of the incredible sights of this beautiful and vibrant city.

4. Greece. Maybe their economy isn't in the greatest shape that it's ever been in, but Greece is still a super

There are a slew of generally accepted romantic practices that you can employ as a way to show your devotion to either a new love interest or a long-term partner. You might send roses, dine at a fancy restaurant, or serenade your love by moonlight. But whether things are just starting to get serious or you're trying to spice up a relationship that's hit the doldrums, a romantic weekend getaway could be just the ticket to let the other person know how you feel. And here are a few things you'll want to consider when planning your mini vacay of love.

1. Cost. There's just no getting around this one, especially in a recession economy. You might be keen to pull out all the stops, but if the cost of your plans comes at the expense of paying your monthly bills, your one true love might be none too pleased after the fact. Luckily, there are tons of ways to make romantic plans without going over budget. Heck, planning a day trip to the lake, complete with a picnic in the park featuring cold pasta and a bottle of cheap champagne qualifies. So get creative if you want to not only save some money, but also impress your significant other with your mental prowess.

2. Going off the grid. It's always important to let someone in on your travel plans just in case, but if you want your weekend to be a truly romantic experience, don't spoil it by taking a phone call in the midst of some soulful eye-gazing. Leave your cell phones, tablets, laptops, and other mobile connectivity devices powered down and safely locked away if you want to devote your full attention to the person you're trying to romance.

3. Secrecy. Although certain types of people are a bit too anxious when things are out of their control, most of us love a good surprise, especially when it's all about making us happy. So if you're looking to plan a romantic getaway, think about ways you can keep it a secret as long as possible. You might have to reveal snippets like the

Nobody wants to think about all the ills that could befall them while on vacation in a foreign locale, but if you prepare for the possibility then you are far less likely to suffer during your time abroad. Consider, for example, the assault to your immune system when you travel. Often you are suffering not only from jet lag, which throws off your sleep schedule to begin with, but also a lack of sleep that occurs as you run yourself ragged trying to take in all the sights. This could compromise your immune system. In addition, you are eating foods and exposing yourself to contaminants that are unfamiliar, further increasing your risk for contracting an illness. The point is that it's not uncommon for people to fall ill during a vacation, especially when traveling abroad. And if you'd like to minimize your symptoms or better yet avoid this prospect altogether, here are just a few tips that will help you to stay healthy when you join the jet set.

1. See the doctor, refill prescriptions. It's important to see your doctor well ahead of scheduled travel so that you can receive appropriate immunizations before your trip. Keep in mind that many parts of the global community are still prone to ailments that have been all but eradicated in our little corner of the world, so it's in your best interest to protect yourself. In addition, some countries might not let you in without specific immunizations. You should also take this opportunity to refill prescriptions so that you can make sure you don't run out during your travel adventure.

2. Follow mom's advice. Eating right, taking your vitamins, and getting plenty of sleep are all key ingredients that make up the recipe for a strong immune system. So do what your mama told you and take care of

Start off your holiday party or Christmas dinner on the right foot with savory treats for guests to snack on as they arrive. Even Santa thinks that many of these are better than milk and cookies, and you'll probably find some recipes that you keep coming back to year after year. Prepare several different types of Christmas appetizers so guests have options to choose from and everyone can find something they love.

Parmesan and Artichoke Dip



Bringing a steaming hot dip out of the oven right before your party begins is the perfect way to invite guests over to load up their plates with appetizers. This recipe brings together the sharp flavors of Parmesan cheese and artichoke hearts in an undeniably delicious and creamy dip.

What You Need
• 1 can (14 oz.) artichoke hearts, drained, chopped
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 Tbsp. chopped tomatoes
• 1 green onion, sliced
Make It
• HEAT oven to 350ºF.
• MIX first 4 ingredients.
• SPOON into shallow ovenproof dish or 9-inch pie plate.
• BAKE 20 to 25 min. or until hot and bubbly. Sprinkle with tomatoes and onions. Serve with crackers.

Creamy Cheese Truffles

A giant cheese ball doesn't always look appetizing once guests dig in, which is why these holiday cheese truffles are the perfect alternative. The miniature cheese balls are sized so each guest can just put one on her plate and enjoy

Iceland is one of the most amazing places in the world to visit, and if you've got a trip planned there, you're in for one of the experiences of a lifetime (especially if you've never been before). The culture is amazing, the people are wonderful...but above all, the sights are like few places that exist anywhere else in the world. Iceland is one of the planet's most truly beautiful locations, and people the world over have been inspired and captivated by its true natural beauty. As such, it can be understandably tough to narrow down all the options when you're planning your itinerary! With so many incredible options available, figuring out the best Icelandic sights can be sort of tough, so we'll talk about the top five places that you might think about visiting while you're in Iceland. Hopefully this list makes narrowing down your selections a little easier so you can relax and enjoy one of the most incredibly beautiful places on the entire planet.

1. Asbyrgi. Truly a wonderful place, Asbyrgi is indeed considered a pretty significant wonder of the natural world. You might not have heard of it, but it's a canyon that's roughly three and a half kilometers long, with walls that are about 100 meters high. It's a pretty impressive sight, and during the breeding season you can see the fulmars -- a beautiful seabird, one species of which is extinct -- occupying the canyon walls. It's a truly impressive place, and should absolutely be on your list.

2. Glacier Fjords of Jokulfirdir. Thankfully, you'll be visiting Iceland to take in the sights and hopefully not participate in one of their legendary spelling bees. On your list of sights, however, should be the Glacier Fjords of Jokulfirdir -- they're located in one of the colder regions of Iceland, and are part of the Western Fjords. They're beautiful, though, and are home to an active geothermal field which is of particular interest to scientists and environmentalists alike.

3. Geysir. Do you love a good geyser? Who doesn't! Geysir is an area that's got a few of them, and it's one of the best-known geyser areas in all of Iceland. Geysir itself (the name of the one of the actual geysers) is the main attraction of this area, and it's brother geyser is known as Strokkur. You can definitely get your geyser fix by visiting this legendary geyser field.


4. Gullfoss. If you're looking for a great place to visit right after you're done taking in the sights over at the aptly-named geyser field of Geysir, you can head over to Gullfoss -- it's a gorgeous natural waterfall that's in a huge

Travel is a great way to broaden your horizons and experience something brand new in this huge world of ours. Really, there are a lot of reasons that everyone should travel, and when we're lucky enough to have the time and money such that we can afford to do so, it's a pretty nice thing indeed. Traveling isn't easy, though, nor is it cheap, so we always want to make sure that we're making the absolute most of it whenever we're doing it. There are a lot of great advantages that can come with the right trip out of the country, so it's important not to let anything pass you by. Should you be considering a big trip sometime in the relatively near future, but are maybe in need of a little persuading, we'll talk about five of the best educational benefits. Traveling means that you've got a whole lot of opportunity to learn a bunch of new and exciting things; here's how to make the most of it!

1. Introducing Yourself to a New Language. Soak up that native tongue as much as you can. You'll be way better off if you can come back home with a broadened linguistic palette. It might actually help to start dipping into this before you actually leave, but if you practice enough while you're away, you might be able to come back home with a rudimentary (but totally serviceable) understanding of a brand new language!

2. Becoming Familiar with a New Culture. Cultural differences are what makes the world go round, and a lot of people would argue that you haven't truly lived until you've put yourself in a place where you've experienced a culture that's radically different from the one you're used to. When you visit a new country, there can be a bit of culture shock -- drink it in! New customs and ways of doing things are important for expanding your

Traveling is something that many people enjoy, but the whole process can be risky and tiresome for those living with diabetes. If you're planning to take a trip away from home any time soon, be sure to plan well in advance. Follow these 5 travel tips for diabetics to ensure that you can reach your destination safely and get back home in good health.

1. Stay Healthy



Everyone hears about the health risks associated with traveling, but shockingly few take precautions to guard themselves. Spending so much time in close quarters with dozens of other people, some of whom may be sick, puts you at risk for infection. You may also be using airport facilities that are used by thousands of other people from all over the world every day. Boost your immune system before traveling, and consider getting a flu shot as well. Wash your hands often to stay sanitary and germ free.

2. Stay Active While Traveling
It is important to get regular exercise when you are living with diabetes, but it is not easy to do so while traveling. As tiring as a day of travel can be, it usually involves a lot of sitting down--whether it's on a bus, train, plane, or at the airport. Whatever your mode of travel, be sure to get up and walk around periodically to get as much physical activity as possible. If your flight has one or more stops, take a walk around the airport rather than sitting by your gate.

3. Bring Your Own Food
Food is a serious concern for diabetics, and the food available to travelers is not often of good quality. Airline food is not going to be a healthy bet in most cases, and the offerings at transportation hub food courts are equally sketchy in

Canada is an amazing country. Its natural beauty, historical buildings, diversity and culture can cast a spell on travellers. Each city has its own unique charm and attraction that is hard to resist. And the friendliness of the people just adds to the enjoyment. While all of Canada is interesting and has something to offer to everyone, there are some cities that reflect the diversity of the country very aptly.

Toronto

This, perhaps, is the most well-known city in Canada due to the Toronto International Film Festival, leading sports franchises, such as the Raptors, Blue Jays and Toronto Maple Leafs and the world famous CN Tower, which stands at 1,815 feet. The observation deck of the tower offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding areas.

The city is home to the Eaton Centre, which is a friendly and bright shopping mall. Be sure to carry your credit card, as the mall has over 250 stores where you can get great bargains as well as high-end items. However, after shopping, do spend some time checking out the architecture and the imposing Canadian geese mobile called Flight Stop. This was designed by an artiste called Michael Snow.

Travellers interested in architecture and history will enjoy visiting Casa Loma, which was constructed in the early 1900s by Sir Henry Pellart, a Toronto-based businessman. Casa Loma overlooks the city and has many modern-day conveniences, including an elevator.

Vancouver


This city is famous for its spectacular natural beauty. Its laidback charm, oceanfront and mountains make it one of the most visited Canadian cities. It is also a popular ski destination, as people come to slalom down the Whistler.

Vancouver is also home to Stanley Park, which is spread across 1,000 acres. Located in the heart of the city, it offers

Hawaii is considered one of the best vacation spots in the United States and is visited by millions of people each year. The weather is warm and tropical all year and there are plenty of beautiful beaches to hang out at in Hawaii. This beautiful vacation spot is also filled with plenty of restaurants. Here are the top five places to eat in Hawaii.

1. 12th Avenue Grill

If you are in the mood for classic American food, stop by 12th Avenue Grill. When you open up the menu, you will find dishes like pork chops, short ribs, baked macaroni and cheese and beef tenderloin. If you still have room for dessert after your meal, try the crème brulee or chocolate cake.

2. Mermaids Café

Mermaids Café is the perfect restaurant to go to if you want to eat something healthy. All of the dishes are homemade and cooked with the freshest ingredients. Some of the items featured on the menu include tofu wraps, tropical tacos, organic salads and chicken stir-fry noodle plates. The staff will treat you like family at this restaurant, so you will feel right at home.

3. Azure Restaurant

Azure Restaurant is the place to go if you want to eat delicious seafood in a fine dining setting. The restaurant is beautifully decorated with intimate candles, plush banquettes and marble floors. Some of the most popular items on the menu include smoked Hawaiian sword fish, crispy whole fish, grilled Colorado lamb chop and ocean salad. Do not forget to wash your meal down with one of the tropical cocktails featured on the menu.

4. Alan Wong’s

Alan Wong’s has been serving locals and tourists fresh Hawaiian dishes since 1995. Some of the most popular dishes

Winter might not be what we consider to be the "peak" of the vacation season every year, but it's important to take a moment to think about the fact that every season has its beautiful sights and experiences. Summer and Spring might get all the best press, but they're not the only time that it can be truly fun and exciting to get out and enjoy a vacation adventure. We might feel a little hard-pressed when it comes time to think up a truly exciting winter vacation trip, because the season doesn't quite lend itself to such fun stuff and carefree activities quite the way Summer does. For some reason, being all bundled up will never feel as relaxing and fun as the incredibly light wardrobe that typically accompanies a summertime vacation, but Winter can also wind up being a great time to take a trip for this very reason. Since it's what we could call the "off-season, winter is a great time to save a few bucks on a great trip. We'll talk about some of the best places you can go to take advantage of the fact that you'll be able to save some money on your accommodations so you can take a great trip and maybe even avoid some of the crowds you might have had to deal with if you took off in the summertime. It's actually a lot easier than you might think to cook up a great vacation in the winter.

Start simple if you're thinking about your romantic vacations for the winter -- look into ski resorts nearby, or look around neighboring states for a truly scenic getaway. There are a ton of resorts that cater specifically to helping you have the most romantic getaway that you could possibly muster up, and the skiing that you'll be able to do when you're not enjoying a lavish suite is a great way to get some serious exercise and reconnect with nature at the same time. Few things make a trip as fun as it can possibly be like the free flow of endorphins that you get when you ride

There are many reasons to travel the world. For some, it is the thrill of exploring new locales, learning about foreign cultures, sampling exotic cuisine, or any number of other attractions. For others, however, the reason to travel is of a religious significance. Pilgrimages and educational trips to the holiest locations in the world are common in many faiths, and these are just a few of the holiest travel destinations in the world.

The Saudi Arabian city of Mecca, revered in Islamic belief as the birthplace of the prophet Muhammad is widely considered the holiest place in the world for Muslim believers and a place to which they must make a pilgrimage during their lifetimes. In many ways the center of the Islamic faith, where millions of Muslims make their pilgrimage and many decide to stay for life, Mecca has grown over the years into an extremely diverse city where Muslims from all walks of life come together in the name of faith.


For many Christians, and Catholics in particular, the Vatican City in Rome is one of the most significant places in the world. As the headquarters of Catholicism and the residing place of the Pope, the Vatican is full of both religious history and present day significance. The Vatican's centerpiece, St. Peter's Cathedral draws tourists from all faiths

Everybody agrees that the city of Barcelona is located in a very convenient position on the northeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula and the beautiful shores of the Mediterranean. Barcelona is a very popular city for tourists because of its rich cultural history people. Barcelona is the second largest Spanish city, not only in size, but population too. Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, 1 of the 17 Autonomous Communities that make up Spain. Barcelona has two official languages: Catalan, generally spoken in all of Catalonia, and traditional Castillian Spanish. The city of Barcelona has a population of over 1.500.000 inhabitants, but this number can rise to more than 4.000.000 if the exterior areas are also taken in consideration.



The capital of Catalonia is considered a Mediterranean city, not only because of its previously mentioned geographic location, but primarily because of its history and culture. The documented history of Barcelona dates back to the founding of a Roman colony on its region. However it was in the second century B.C. when Barcelona experienced spectacular growth and economic revival. By the second half of the 19th century Barcelona was already a world class city. The famous 1888 World's Fair became a symbol for the international vision projected by the city and its inhabitants. Barcelona quickly became famous for its art, architecture, and overall rich culture. The city’s beautiful

So you've done all the research, you've received your acceptance letter and booked your travel, and now you're landing in your host country for a semester or a year of studying abroad. Then it hits you, you've never even been out of your state before! Living in a foreign land is a very real culture shock, and getting used to the myriad of differences between your new life and what you've been so accustomed to in America can take some serious effort. It's not impossible, and since you chose your host country carefully chances are you've already got some sort of affinity for that culture or the people. Regardless, you'll feel like a local after just a short amount of time if you follow these tips for assimilating when you study abroad.

First of all, take the time to really learn the language. This is a moot point in an English-speaking country (although the accents and slang in some parts of the world can make English sound like a foreign language), but in many other places you will be truly lost if you don't learn to speak the local tongue. Get yourself in a foreign language class as soon as possible, and speak it in your daily life, even if it is a struggle at first. Hang out where the locals are and listen even more than you speak. After a few weeks it will start to come more easily.

One great option is to find a host family to put you up for your first few weeks in the new country. There's no better way to assimilate into the local culture than to see if from the local's perspective. Your host family will obviously help you learn the language, but will also give you the lay of the land, showing you where the best deals are and how to pick up what you'll need to get by. And family dinners are a great way to experience local food as well.

You'll also want to try and make some new friends as quickly as possible. The school may be able to help you out in that regard, as they'll often pair foreign exchange students with a local student who is willing to give you a proper introduction to the community. But also look to hang out where the local students gather, generally at cafes, bars and

With the approaching holiday season, we are all starting to give thought to how to find the best deals out there, especially when it comes to gift-giving. For those who incorporate travel into their holiday plans, finding deals is just as important - especially when it comes to hotels.

Not surprisingly, hotel properties - capitalizing on the increase in travel during the holidays - increase their rates. So it’s more important than ever to seek out great deals for holiday stays. The good news is that if you are willing to put the time in to doing your research, you will find that there are a lot of deals to be had. Here are 7 ways to get the best hotel deals this holiday season:

1. Start early. Planning is your friend when it comes to find the best hotel deals for the holidays. When you have time on your side, you have the ability to closely follow pricing on the particular properties in which you may be interested. Check the hotel’s website often to keep up on rates and jump on a deal when you see it.

2. Online travel companies. There’s no better tool at your disposal than online travel companies which can show you prices on a number of properties at once. This is especially helpful if you’re not set on staying at one particular property but rather in just a particular area. Through many of these sites, you also have the option to sign up for email updates so that you can receive an alert if the prices drop to a set number. Also an option through some of these sites is the ability to bid on a hotel room in a particular area. While you can’t choose a hotel by name, you can specify the area and the type of hotel that you want - three-star, four-star, etc. - and set a price that you would be willing to pay. If your price is accepted you can get a great room in a great hotel at a great price.

3. Check hotel specials. While online travel companies are a fantastic way to find a great deal, don’t overlook the specials offered by hotels directly. Check back with hotels to see if they offer any holiday packages or specials. Many times, hotels will offer free nights if you book a particular number of days; or some packages may

If you are heading off for a long-term trip, you might be a bit unsure of how to handle your belongings so that everything will be safe while you are away. You surely don't want to rush your trip or feel stressed while you are gone because you are worried about your belongings, so make sure that you make proper arrangements before you leave.



Decide What to Do With Your Home

If you own your own home, you might wonder what to do with it while you are away. If you are planning on being gone for an extended period of time, you should consider renting it to someone that you trust. This will help you to bring in a bit of extra cash while you are away, but you will still have your home to come home to when you are ready. If you are not prepared to invite others into your home, take the necessary steps of cutting off your water supply, notifying your utility companies, hiring someone to take care of your lawn and asking someone to keep an eye on your home for you.

Store Your Belongings Properly

Although it might not seem like a big deal to leave your items at home for a few weeks while you are gone, it is important to put some thought into what you will do with your stuff if you are going to be traveling for an extended

Are you visiting sunny Sydney and need some ideas of where to go and what to do? Well here are our five top places to visit whilst in the famous Aussie city.

Taronga Zoo




Many visitors to Sydney often miss out on one of the city’s best day activities – Taronga Zoo. It’s a great place to visit as it’s home to native Australian animals (kangaroo, koala) and overseas animals (elephants, giraffes). Of course that’s just naming a few. It has many fun attractions such as the seal show, free flight bird show and spider talk (you might want to skip the last one!).

The zoo is located in the suburb of Mosman and over looks Sydney’s beautiful harbour.So it’s the perfect place to get out your camera and take a photo with the backdrop of animals, the blue water and clear sky.

Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House



You can’t come to Sydney without taking a “cheezy” holiday photo in front of the iconic Harbour Bridge or Opera House. The bridge was first opened in 1932 and since has been used by Sydneysiders to get from the north of Sydney to the CBD. For the ultimate photo try the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb that will surely be the climb of your life.

And of course you can’t mention the Harbour Bridge without referring to the incredible Opera House. You know the one – an architectural masterpiece that looks like large white waves! It was first opened in 1973 and is used to this day

The Mariner Of The Seas is one of five very fine ships that make up the Voyager Class from Royal Caribbean, one of the largest and best known cruise holiday companies in the world. She sails to some of the world's most exotic and idyllic regions on both sides of the Atlantic and beyond. On-board you'll find a veritable wonderland of activity options, dinning areas, beauty salons, whirlpools and plenty more besides. The idea is to offer families, as well as couples, groups of friends and individuals of all ages just the right environment for a fun-packed but hugely relaxing vacation.


The good news though about cruise holidays if you have one in mind is that there are plenty of great value package offers made available throughout the year. So if you're after some winter sun then the Mariner can offer you an excellent getaway at eye-catching prices but there are bargains available as well on two-week long tours to the Caribbean next year. Naturally you'll want to give some thought to picking a route and an itinerary that captures

When you finally decide that you and your spouse are ready to pull the trigger on that awesome vacation home you've had your eye on for all those years, it can be an extremely exciting time. It can also be the time when you realize that there might be a lot more to consider when you're looking for a vacation home, and now that old cabin doesn't quite meet the needs that you didn't have all those years ago. We'll talk about some of the most important things to consider when you and your spouse are looking for a vacation home to get for your family, so that you can make the most out of your new investment.

1. Size. Think about how big your family is now, and think about how big it's potentially going to get in the future, if that's still an option. This should be a huge factor in the vacation home that you purchase, as you want it to last you a good, long time, and you want your family to be able to avoid outgrowing it. Do your due diligence and make sure you purchase a property that fits in line with you and your spouse's plans for the future.

2. State of Repair. Consider the shape of your vacation home before you purchase it. If you haven't yet visited it in person, this is highly recommended before actually purchasing. Pictures can be misleading, whether intentionally or not, and you want to make sure you know exactly what you're getting into. Nobody wants a vacation

Your college years are some of your best years to take advantage of your youth, freedom, and a relative abundance of time. While to some students it might not seem like college is really home to anything close to an "abundance" of time, it won't take long to realize that life post-education is a lot less unbound. That being said, college can still be a tough time to travel, as most college students aren't rolling around in extra income. For this reason, it's important that the traveling student remain constantly wily and always on the lookout for the best deal of offer. We'll talk about a few of the ways that college students can cut corners on traveling costs, so that you can get out there and see the world before you find yourself locked into a full-time job (which won't be a bad thing, but isn't great for travel).

The first step to traveling on the student discount system is the student discounts on airfare. They're offered by many major airlines, and if you do your research, you can easily incredible rates to wherever it is you want to go. What're more is that you don't have to even do all of the legwork yourself, if you don't want to. You can find your student discounts and ticket prices on your own, or you can use any number of web services to do it for you. There are even websites specifically dedicated to helping students find discounted airline tickets.

Once you've arrived at your destination, there's always a question of lodgings. Unless you've got a friend or two in the area, hotels can be an incredibly pricey option. For this reason it's recommended that you go with a hostel. These are

Have you ever heard the term "everyone is a publisher?" Or maybe it was "anyone is a publisher." In either case it's true, and if you're a traveler, that's great new for you. Or maybe you're not a traveler, but you're highly interested in travel. It's still great news. The fact of the matter is that it's never been easier to make the movie of their own lives. And there have never been more people that are doing it. Digital cameras are cheap, durable, tiny, and can capture beautiful, high-definition images -- which has resulted in some of the most stunning and easily-accessible travel footage in history. In fact, it's resulted in a complete deluge of these videos. Understandably enough, it can be a little overwhelming trying to figure out where to find the best travel videos. It turns out that great resources are right in front of you -- ways that you can see videos made by real people doing real things, and not stock footage played to you by an travel agency or resort.

YouTube is a relatively obvious place to start looking for travel videos. Simply by searching the place in which you're interested, you are completely guaranteed to find a wealth of videos -- both long and short -- likely describing every and any aspect of whatever place it is you wish to visit. Whether you find snippets from travel shows like Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations, or a simple, hand-made video about street food in Mumbai, there are a ton of options, both big-budgeted and small, that can help you learn about your destination on YouTube.

Vimeo is another great resources, as it tends to specialize in more visually-interesting and high definition content. Vimeo is home to some of the most beautiful videos on all the Internet, and if you're looking to get a real taste of some of the most sweeping beauty and scenic delights that your destination has to offer, then Vimeo is a great place to go looking. Just like YouTube, it doesn't take more than a simple search for the name of your potential destination to turn up any number of videos to get you acquainted with just about any possible aspect of life.

Finally, Twitter is another wonderful option to find travel videos, many of which are completely up-to-the moment. You might find a slightly rougher selection, so to speak, as Twitter is more susceptible to cell phone footage and less professional video production and quality. It is,

When you decide it's time to set out and see the world, a big part of the planning process likely involves how you're going to keep your stuff safe. If you're like the rest of the world, you're going to want to document and experience your trip to the utmost of your ability. You're probably also going to want to have a way to stay connected with the world around you, find the things you need, and stay in touch with the people you love. Heck, you might even be looking to verbally document your travels, by writing a book or posting to a blog as you go along. Plenty of these things can be done on the cheap, but Internet cafes in foreign countries and cheap cameras don't always get the job done. Sometimes we simply need to bring expensive equipment with us when we're traveling, whether it's a hardcore, globetrotting adventure or simply a trip to Cancun with the spouse and kids. Keeping your values safe is a priority no matter what, and having the right strategy can help you avoid any added stress while you're out trying to

The Gold Coast is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Australia. To help our readers make sure they have the best trip possible, we put together some tips for a holiday in the Gold Coast, Australia. We will give you some tips on finding a hotel, getting to and from the airport, things to do, and the best time to visit.



Best Time of Year to Visit the Gold Coast

One of the great things about the Gold Coast is that the weather is warm and sunny most of the year. The area experiences more than 300 days of sunshine every year. Even in the winter time, the average high of the day is 22°C or 71.6°F. The peak travel season for the area is in the summertime, which tells you that most people feel that the summer is the best time to visit. However, during peak travel times, prices for things like attractions and accommodations are more expensive. If you like to avoid the crowds and save some money, you might want to visit at some other time.

A great time to visit would be just after the summer. Although the weather is great year-round, March and April is very nice, and it's not as chaotic as it is during the peak months of the summer, from December to February.

Getting to and from the Airport

There are plenty of options for getting to and from the Gold Coast Airport. There is an information desk right outside the international arrivals terminal where you can get all the information you need about buses and shuttles. Many buses leave from the domestic arrivals terminal near the baggage collection area. There are several bus routes that run directly from the airport to some of the most popular tourist areas. Some routes have buses leaving every hour,

Take your significant other into a moment of Zen while you watch the sun ease the stress out of you. The gentle music playing in the background really calms any worries you have. Relax in one of London’s rooftop venues as the rush of horns go off in the busy capital right under you. There’s not a single thing that can ruin the moment you’re experiencing. Here are London’s best rooftop bars and restaurants that will give you a view you’ll never forget.

The Oxo Tower Terrace

Many of the rooftop luxurious in London come with high costs. They are, after all, the epitome of an elegant wine and dine experience. The Oxo Tower, owned by the Harvey Nichols group, is nothing short of brilliant. The real stunner is their set-menu deals, though. A course of two with a bottle of wine only costs £25. The Terrace is definitely worth a visit—despite being amongst the best central London hotels, it remains relatively cheap. It makes for the perfect romantic getaway. The quality of service and food is amazing, and you may also catch their live music nights.

Queen of Hoxton 

If you can’t be bothered to throw on a suit for a ceremonial outing, then the Queen of Hoxton is your answer. The hipster magnet has gained its popularity for being one of the less formal rooftop bars in London. There are sun loungers and park benches spread over the massive roof area. It’s a perfect escape from life—grab a nice cold beer

Sometimes travel is a vital and necessary part of running a company, and there are not always a lot of things that can be done to avoid this. Travel costs are a pretty serious thing, and since the economy's recent behavior hasn't been so wonderful, a lot of business owners and managers are looking for ways that their companies can cut those travel costs and find more sustainable ways of doing things. As it turns out, modern technology has given us a lot of ways to circumvent plenty of the things that used to necessitate great deals of travel, and there are ways to do things faster, cheaper, and more efficiently than ever before. The shrewd business executive can run the company and make those deals without breaking the bank on travel costs, and if you feel like this type of expense is running away with your company's finances, there's hope for you yet. Lots of relatively simple ways exist for you to cut travel costs when it comes to your company, so that you can bring up that bottom line and reduce some of that overhead. Travel is sometimes a necessary part of business, but it doesn't have to be the part that winds up pushing you and your employees into the red.

For starters, consider the role technology currently plays at your company. Are you traveling a lot when you could simply be upgrading your tech situation -- might this save you a ton of money in the long run? Consider giving yourself a system upgrade. This might even be good in a lot of ways besides eliminating travel costs, as when your employees have better tools with which to do their work, they have a tendency to be more excited about doing it. Besides this, however, technology has given us a lot of ways to overcome our need to physically be in one place or another. Video conferencing and many other options have given us the ability to avoid having to travel where it was

Life in London can be famously hectic, so if you’re contemplating a break to get away from it all this year; here are a few suggestions of the best destinations from around the world.

On your doorstep

If you’d like to escape to somewhere refreshingly quiet, head to the Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with miles of scenic rolling hills. Honey-coloured limestone buildings, shimmering lakes and unspoilt rural landscapes greet you at every turn. The still and gentle countryside is the perfect antidote to city life, and there are a number of charming villages to visit, including the idyllic medieval town of Burford, which boasts a beautiful Gothic church and a variety of inns, restaurants and cafes.

Short trips need not be confined to home terrain however, with much of France reachable by rail in only a few hours. Take a detour from Paris and head south to Rocamadour, one of France’s most lovely regions. Its well-preserved medieval architecture, chateaux and castles blend perfectly into the meadows and woods. In the evening, take to the skies in a hot air balloon for a breath-taking panoramic view before settling down to a candlelit dinner in a local restaurant.

Further afield

For a slightly more unconventional short break destination, try the shore of the beautiful Lake Bled in Slovenia. The clear blue waters combine with the lush green density of the surrounding forests to provide truly stunning scenery – visit the medieval Bled Castle, which sits on an island in the middle of the lake, for a taste of the region’s history, as

It is completely true that Moscow has been considered as one of the most expensive tourist destinations or European capitals for the past decades. The big abundance of great attractions and things to show, the grand Russian city is definitely a place that any tourism connoisseur should visit, no matter what and how much it is going to cost him or her. Furthermore, Moscow is also familiar as one of the most unfriendly town for the criminality that is above the average. Though, these factors – the prices of the common vacation rentals in Moscow and the risk you can be robbed or introduced to the enormous society of homeless men from the biggest stations in the capital – should not stop you being adventurous and curious to see the glamorous side of the Russian night life, to observe the Russian traditions from a short distance by visiting the most amazing hot spots. In this article we will try to inform you about the most interesting attractions in the Russian capital of Moscow by leaving behind the usual and ordinary mentions of famous public places and offer you a bit more different Top 5 Attractions in Moscow. Together they are enough to get you to know the many faced nature of Moscow.

Russia and Russians, themselves, are usually connected with the high and serious use of alcohol. Ironically or jocularly, speaking of this traditional Russian habit, we cannot miss to offer you the first attraction in Moscow that you really should visit, if you have the amazing chance to visit this insusceptible and really diverse city. The great and popular Vodka Museum is opened during the entire year not only for the alcohol lovers, but, also for people, who are trying to find out whether Russian people are really so keen and acquainted with Vodka. Entering the museum and seeing all of the exponents together with the descriptions about them, you will convince that this Russian habit

The world is a bounty of sights and sounds, and many of those sounds have changed our lives as much as the sights have. There are a thousand and one reasons to travel the world, but for music lovers, two of those reasons rise above the rest--live music, and music history. These cities are some of the best, most popular, and most fascinating travel destinations for music lovers all over the world.


1. Liverpool, England
Without a doubt, Liverpool must be one of the ultimate destinations for music loving travelers. A trip to the birthplace of one of the most widely acclaimed bands of modern history begins in John Lennon International Airport, and quickly leads to tours of the city that give interesting and nostalgic looks at the homes and streets that inspired some of The Beatles' most memorable songs. Be sure to make a stop at the Cavern Club, one of the greatest places for live music for over 50 years and counting.

2. Cleveland, Ohio
The number one draw of Cleveland is, naturally, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the leading institution for rock history and appreciation in the United States. The Hall is so vast and filled with fascinating history that one could spend days soaking it all up. Not only are there impressive relics of musical history here, but also opportunities to discover the newest rising stars in the world of rock. Everyone from Chuck Berry to Jack White is here, so be sure to stop in for a visit.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana
Music appreciators have a tendency to say that America's greatest gift to the world was jazz. Along with the blues, which gradually lead to rock and roll, jazz is one of the US's most significant contributions to the world of music. Now appreciated the world over, jazz musicians were not so warmly welcomed by the mainstream in their early

When you're getting ready to hit the road on a long trip -- especially one that crosses the continental United States -- you might want to thinking about getting a car special for the trip. If you're going to do this, you've got to make sure you get a vehicle that's absolutely right for the job. Some cars are much more well-suited to making road trips than others, and there are a lot of ways to make sure your purchase is the right one given your intent. We'll talk about the five most important things to think about before you actually make your purchase and buy whatever car it is that'll be transporting you across the lower 48.

1. Fuel Economy. The MPG (miles per gallon) that your car gets is going to be incredibly important, especially if you're considering driving it across the United States. Gas prices aren't really at their best, and you want to make sure you're getting something that will get you at least 20 to 30 miles to the gallon, if you can. The more you have to spend on gas, the more costly your trip is going to be, so the fuel economy of your potential car might be one of the first things you consider before you make your decision.

2. Current Mileage. Take a look at how many miles the car has on it at present. Don't go with anything that's got more one hundred thousand miles on it. If you're planning on driving it across the country, then odds are you're not picking out a car that you're going to hang on to for a very long time. You might even be considering selling it after your trip, so getting a car that you don't need to take very good care of is a good call, in this instance.

3. Cargo Space. Your car is going to be something of a home to you for a while, so you should be sure that you'll be able to fit all of your stuff into it. If your car has insufficient cargo room when you hit the road, then you could

Although many people travel for relaxation and a desire to take a break from the demands of a hectic day-to-day life, most tourists are looking for more than just a beatific vista and a soft pillow when they shell out the money for a major vacation. The entertainment options offered by a locale can definitely impact the average tourist's desire to take a trip. And if you're looking for a city that can provide you with myriad forms of amusements when you travel, here are a few of the top contenders.


1. Amsterdam, Netherlands. For adults seeking forms of entertainment that may not be available in other parts of the world due to common laws regarding gambling, drug use, and other amusements, Amsterdam is most accommodating. Even if you're not terribly keen on these forms of debauchery, there's plenty to do in this floating city. You can visit several fine museums, including those devoted to Rembrandt and Van Gogh, beer connoisseurs will enjoy the many pubs, like the famous Café Gollem with its vast array of brews, and those who like to listen to music or dance the night away at clubs will find more options than they can shake a stick at.

2. Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The Dubai Mall. Need I say more? Known as a shopping mecca, this city has one of the biggest draws in the world when it comes to reasons to spend, and tourists looking for a lavish vacation will find a lot to love in the way of resort accommodations, elite amusements, and world-class shopping opportunities. Aside from the incredible 1,200 mall shops that create a virtual orgy of consumerism, travelers that visit during the month of February will get to enjoy this emirate's annual Shopping Festival, a month-long celebration

Today's business traveler must navigate mobile devices as smoothly and accurately as his home airport. While many professionals who frequently travel for work have been able to scale back thanks to videoconferencing and cloud computing, there will always be a need to sit in a distant boardroom, look someone in the eye and shake hands over the deal. That being said, the Smartphone’s and tablet devices in the business traveler's toolkit can be utilized to make that travel more effective, and to take as much of the headache out of it as possible. Here are just a few of the most essential Smartphone apps for business travelers.

While Google has done a great deal to make web searching the easiest it has ever been, perhaps their best offering to the business traveler is Google Voice. It's their VoIP service that may be one of the most useful apps available today. Google Voice gives you a dedicated phone number that you can give out and access from any web-enabled device. You can also set your service to ring through to your cell phone, so you don't have to give out your personal number to business contacts. You can even make outgoing calls on your cell phone and have it show up as originating from

For any European or American, far away continents will always represent a mysterious attraction, a place one will always dream to visit. And if life gives you the chance to visit Asia, and you are also a person looking for Asian landmarks, make sure to include the following two destinations on your itinerary.


1. Angkor is considered to be the most fascinating archaeological site in Asia. Around the ruins of the Khmer Empire, capital authorities have created an entire archaeological park where tourists are able to get in contact with the Asian culture from the 9th to the 15th century. The masterpiece and the point that attracts most of the tourists is the worldwide known Temple of Angkor Wat.

The site has such an important cultural and historical significance that UNESCO has developed many programs, in order to preserve and secure it. The Archaeological Park, which covers 400 square kilometers / 155 square miles, offers the tourists the possibility of seeing all sorts of water constructions: basins, canals and reservoirs. Angkor was for many centuries the capital of the the Khmer Empire, and is a testimony that proves the beauty of that unique civilization in a remote part of the globe.

If this will be your future holiday destination, keep in mind that the weather is always hot and sticky there. The best period to visit the Park is from November till the end of February, when the climate is a little bit cooler and drier. Around Easter and Christmas though, the Park is very crowded. You can easily get to Angkor, as it is a 20 minutes

The capital city of Portugal is not just known for wonderfully relaxing holidays and its art and culture but also for its Bullfighting tradition.

Bullfighting is very popular in Lisbon and also among those who love this sporting activity and come to Lisbon to witness it and also to take part in this exciting activity.

Portuguese are a very lively people and love to sing and dance in festivals and cultural events that are held frequently in the capital every year. Bullfighting is one tradition that continues to be held as a sport in the capital. It is mostly performed by professionals and held to the merriment of the onlookers who assemble in specially.

One unique thing about bullfighting in Lisbon is the murder of the bull by the fighter in the ring using his sword in a display of skill and art. Though associated mostly with Spain, especially Madrid, bullfighting in Lisbon attracts thousands of tourists who come to watch the mesmerizing spectacle in the ring.

Bullfighters are known as matadors and to become a matador, high levels of athleticism and skill is required to be able to dodge the bull and defeat him, taunting him and tiring him down. With the passage of time, the practice of

Christmas is a great time to travel, and if you can make your plans early enough in advance you can even avoid all the trouble of dealing with everyone else who's traveling at the same time. There are a ton of ways to use Christmas as a way to get away from it all, and if you pick the right location you can even avoid the mad holiday rush entirely. Whether you want to explore the country in which you already live, or head off to some foreign, far-off lands, there are some really great strategies and places to think about when you're picking a vacation destination. We'll talk about some of the best ways to get the most bang for your vacation buck. When you're looking at choosing a Christmas getaway, some places are way better than others, and you want to make sure your holiday excursion is one of the most unforgettable experiences you can possibly imagine. Some of the following strategies should help you get exactly that, so you and your family can have a holiday experience that none of you will ever forget.

Heading to the opposite coast (or one of the two, if you live in the middle of the country) is a great way to escape a harsh climate and enjoy something a little more temperate. The Pacific Southwest is always a lot of fun, and the Florida coast can be a great place to spend the winter. Either way, escaping to a place where sunshine and sand are the norm is a great way to dodge the full gear that usually goes along with braving harsh temperatures, and spend the colder months in pants and a short-sleeved shirt. New York is pretty cold in the winter, but Christmas in the city that never sleeps can be one of the most memorable things you can ever experience. The giant tree at Rockefeller Center and the overall mood of the city are some of the most incredible things to see and do at Christmas, so if your family's old enough a trip to New York can be a lot of Christmas Time fun.

Why not get out of the country? Fly south for the winter and really get some warmer climate action. Heading towards the equator or even Mexico is a great way to enjoy some sun and relaxation instead of hunkering down in front of the fire for Christmas, so think about flying to a beautiful sandy beach. Hawaii's not such a great idea for

When you're traveling to a foreign country, it's of the utmost importance that you find a translator. But you need more than someone who can simply speak both English and whatever the native tongue is. Ideally, you'll meet with a candidate who has a strong knowledge of the area, can connect with you, and can help you out and really enrich your vacation experience in a way that might not have been possible otherwise. Finding this person is up to you, but thankfully there are more ways than ever to do this. The world is shrinking these days, as the Internet makes it easier and easier to connect with the people around us and figure out new and more efficient ways of doing things. When you need to find a translator in the next country on your itinerary, there are a ton of different ways to do it, and we'll talk about some of the best strategies that can help you wind up with a translator and tour guide who will make sure to help you make the most out of your trip.

The smartest way to go about finding your tour guide is always to start well before you arrive at your destination. Look around online and take a look at some of the best travel forums and message boards. Believe me, there are many. Maybe even too many. In fact, you might be surprised at the number of websites you're able to find that will connect you with people suited precisely to what you're looking for. It's never been easier to connect with the people who know how to do the things you need, and as long as you do your due diligence, you should have no trouble

It is difficult to argue the benefits of traveling for students. In the past, when higher education was a luxury reserved for only the wealthiest families in society, sending students abroad to learn from the best teachers in the world was both expected and encouraged. Lately, most students are taking their education closer to home, but those who travel during school speak more highly of their travels than of any other aspect of their academic careers. It is an unfortunate fact that many students and their families feel like these opportunities are out of reach, usually for financial reasons. However, there are opportunities for educational travel available for everyone.

Traveling abroad is often the most attractive and interesting option for students. Most universities have an office established to help students find and manage study abroad programs while they pursue their degrees, and these experiences are always educational and illuminating for students. Programs for semesters in Europe and summer programs everywhere from China to Brazil are constantly looking for promising students to enter the fold, and these can often be managed at little to no cost through scholarship programs. Students should talk to their academic

Wellcome Collection
Some people are put off London because they think it’ll cost a fortune, but what they don’t realize is that many of the best attractions are completely free. You can visit art galleries and museums for nothing, along with going to free concerts and guided tours. What you’ll spend your money on is eating out, booking a London hotel and public transport. Here are five essential attractions that you can do for free in the Big Smoke. Squeeze them into one day or spread them out over a long weekend.

Free London Walking Tour
Hyde Park Corner
A great starting point would be this walking tour, which departs daily from Hyde Park Corner at 11am and 1pm. During the tour, you’ll be shown the sights of Westminster like the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey

Costa Rica is easily one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and visiting it can be a real treat. There are a ton of interesting things to do in Costa Rica, from surfing to taking in the local cuisine. No matter what you're interested in, however, you'll be checking it out surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery that you can possibly imagine. Another great thing about Costa Rica is that no matter what you're there to do, it's likely you can find multiple places to do it. When you're traveling from place to place, you're lucky enough to be road tripping through a gorgeous and mountainous region with untold beauty like you may never have seen before. Regardless of your activity of choice, taking a car from destination to destination is a smart idea when you're in a place as beautiful as Costa Rica. Since it is a foreign land, however, there are plenty of things you should know before you go. We'll talk about some of the smartest things to remember as you're making your way through Costa Rica, so your road trip is a safe and successful one.


Especially if you're a new driver in Costa Rica, you should limit your driving to the daylight hours. Definitely avoid longer night drives, and keep to the sunlight if you can for the most part. There are a lot of rural parts of Costa Rica, and many of the signage can be either not there at all, or incredibly difficult to see at night. Getting lost in Costa Rica at night is not only easy, but it's a nightmare. Avoid it in the first place by making sure you don't hit the road when

When visiting New York City, it may be important to you to enjoy fine dining restaurants, bars and lounges. If you are not in the market to experience these spots daily, then you will want to take special care in researching for the one-time event that you are planning. It is important to know how much you may want to spend, what area of the city will you frequent and most especially, the type of food that you desire. There are so many fine restaurants in New York City. Many restaurants compete to be the very best at preparing their highly advertised, specialty items. They all work very hard to earn their money and to give their customers a most memorable experience. They each hope that you will be talking about them long after they have served you your meal. They hope that you will recommend them to your friends who plan to be visiting the city.


There are various city locales, such as Greenwich, Manhattan or Soho. All of these are experiences of unique downtown areas. Some restaurants cater to the family, while some are reported to be  romantic type restaurants, with alluring atmospheres and sensual foods. Most fine dining restaurants have couples and families partaking of their menus.

A Few Among Many Fine Dining Establishments in NYC:

1. Serving dinner until 11 o'clock p.m., the Gotham Bar and Grill located on East 12th Street provides many chef delights. They are interested in very unique dishes and food full of nutrition, as well. Chef Alfred Portale offers his signature dish, the skyscraper of a seafood salad and is willing to accept the praise that he receives concerning this particular meal.

2. If you are interested in visiting Greenwich Village, the restaurant entitled One if by Land, Two if by Sea in central Greenwich will delight your sense. They offer aromatic, fine food, beautiful piano music and twinkling lights for the atmosphere they wish to create. If you enjoy tender lamb or beef Wellington cooked to perfection, then you may

Car travel in Japan can be a pretty harrowing experience if you're not quite ready for it. There's a completely different car culture in Japan, and as a foreign driver, trying to navigate the roads for the first time can come as something of a pretty stressful shock. There are a ton of new rules, customs, and mores to internalize, and it can be a little overwhelming when you're just trying to have a vacation, see some sights, and get from point A to point B. Thankfully, getting around in a place like Japan doesn't have to be as complicated as it might seem at times, and we're going to talk about a few really easy strategies that can help you make sense of a confusing and different way of driving.



1. Pay Cash for Gas. One of the hugest "yen traps," as it were, is the gas pump. There are a ton of ways that the unsuspecting tourist can wind up spending a lot more money than is necessary on the petrol you're going to need just to get where you're going, and if you know how to pay cash for your gas you'll be able to save some money. A lot of the gas stations in Japan have memberships that allow you to pay gas and receive a discount -- join. It usually only takes a moment, and those savings add up.

2. Shop for Gas, Too. Driving in a foreign country is confusing, but that doesn't mean you have to stop for gas the first time you see a station just because you aren't sure as to whether or not you can find a better deal. In Japan, it's smarter to shop around -- if prices are being advertised, you're likely to be able to find a good deal, and gas prices vary from locale to locale. You'll save money in the long run if you wait a little while and make the smartest purchase possible.

3. Get a Highway Card. Toll roads are the other huge yen drain when you're out and about in Japan are the many tolls that you'll find yourself up against when you navigate the highway system. It can be confusing, and

For many of us, vacation is typically a summer event, but this doesn't really make a whole lot of sense. You leave home during the most pleasantly warm months of the year, and during the winter you drudge through cold and miserable weather, dealing with freezing rain, ice and snow? Forget convention; plan your next romantic getaway in the winter at one of these fantastic locales.

Bangkok, Thailand



Thailand is a fantastic destination for an exotic and romantic getaway for two. Beautiful scenery and fascinating local culture are just two of the great things you'll privy to in your vacation to Bangkok. Sample the delicious local cuisine, see the sights, go to special events and festivals, or just spend your time relaxing on the beaches. Tourism is popular enough in Thailand that you shouldn't have to worry much about the language barrier; you'll only have to worry about not wanting to go home.

The Caribbean Islands



Lucky for us, the Caribbean isn't full of marauding pirates like in the movies. Rather, it is mostly filled with some of the best winter vacation destinations in the world. Montego Bay in Jamaica is one of the most popular resort towns, along with the Bahamas, the Cayman islands, Aruba, Bermuda, and literally dozens of others. The beaches are warm

There's no doubt that travelers on a tight budget can often feel like they're missing out the fun and entertainment that a major city has to offer. But when you visit Rome you'll discover that there are all kinds of freebies just waiting for you to find. Here are a few activities and attractions that won't cost you a dime.

St. Peter's Basilica. This, the largest Roman Catholic building in the world, is an architectural delight that will take your breath away. Although you will likely want to check out other famous buildings like the Colosseum and the Pantheon, you shouldn't hesitate to put this freebie on your list of must-see sights while in Rome. You can wander the main floor for free (although they charge to take you up to the dome). And that includes attractions like Michaelangelo's 'Pieta' and the statue of St. Peter (rub his foot for good luck). Best of all, you can join a free tour every day of the week (except Sunday) by showing up at 9 a.m. (offered by Sky Tours Rome).

Hiking Gianicolo Hill. This free activity can not only help you to stretch your legs after a long flight, but it is also said to offer some a spectacular view of the city and of the Tiber River. Although it is not one of the famous "seven hills" of Rome, you'll get an unfettered view of the city that includes everything from the Colosseum to the

Health care systems are a hot issue in almost all developed countries; often a major issue in deciding elections and dividing political parties. Everyone has differing opinions about what the government should do, when it should back down to private companies, and who should get coverage. It's a muddled issue and no one has a simple answer, but some people are taking matters into their own hands by bypassing their own countries' health care systems altogether. This growing trend in the world, known as medical tourism, has people in countries like Canada, the US, and the UK traveling to less developed nations for medical treatment.

This seems backwards from the normal cases of residents of under-developed countries making journeys to the US and other more advanced countries to receive medical care that their home countries can't provide. Now, however, many nations in South America, Asia, Eastern Europe, and even South Africa have medical treatment standards that rival our own. Medical schools and training are becoming more and more available to people all over the world, making advanced medical care and surgery no longer a luxury of the richest nations in the world. Ironically, the citizens of those rich nations are looking outside their own borders for treatment.

The reasons for the popularity of medical tourism are mainly reasons of expense and timing. Medical treatment in the US, for example, is more expensive than almost anywhere else in the world, and many Americans are finding it difficult to pay for medical treatment even with insurance. Wait times for medical procedures are another reason for

Do you have a fear of flying? If so, don't feel bad. You are certainly not alone. As a matter of fact, a few years ago, the New York Times did an article that revealed that well over 40 percent of people share in that same fear. Plus, upcoming movies like Flight (with Denzel Washington) in which a plane does go down (although all people's lives were spared) certainly doesn't help cure such a phobia.

And while you may have already heard things like "There are far more car accidents that happen every day in your own city than there are plane crashes for years on end throughout the entire world" (which is true by the way), it doesn't really help when you're sitting in your seat, you feel the wheels go back into the plane and you're watching big houses turn into little specks. Suddenly, statistics are not what you're thinking about. You just want to know how to get through the next few hours with your sanity intact.



We understand and we have some ideas. Check out these tips; ones that will hopefully help you to have a flight that is as peaceful as it is safe:

Admit that you're scared. It may seem like that's oversimplifying things, just a bit, but it's really not. A part of what makes dealing with a fear even more challenging is that people tend to put pressure on themselves to act like they're not scared when they actually are; anxiety mixed with fear makes for a really long flight. As soon as you can feel OK with admitting that you're scared and perhaps even sharing it with the person sitting next to you (you might want to use the word "nervous" with them, though), you might be surprised about the ease that comes over you and oftentimes the words of comfort that the person you told will have to offer as well.

Occupy yourself. OK, if you already are not that big on flying, staring outside of the window the entire time is probably not going to do you much good. So, make sure that you bring a book, your laptop, your iPod or some form of