Asia Travel || Malaysia


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HOTELS RESORTS TRAVEL LEISURE TOURS MALAYSIA ASIA Kuala Lumpur Travel Information Getting around || Business Hour || Money Changing || Tips for Shoppers || Shopping Things you can get || Main shopping area || Fashion/Designer Boutiques || Food Outlets Spectacular Sights Hotels & Resorts Reservation Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia. From its centralised position which spans 243.6 sq. kilometres, this ultra-modern nerve centre of Malaysia expands outwards to embrace the world. Discovering KL (as locals affectionately call it) is like travelling through a time tunnel. Here, vivid traces of history continue to influence and inspire a country set on becoming a fully industrialised nation by the year 2020. You will see ultra-modern skysrapers standing magnificently next to rows and rows of quaint old shophouses. Haute cuisine beside hawker stalls. To the avid shopper KL, is paradise. From world-renowned designer labels and brands to exquisite made-in-Malaysia items, the highly competitive environment that exists among traders is a blessing in disguise to shoppers. While department retail establishments or at any one of KL's famous night markets. KL will enthrall you. It will capture your heart and mind in a way no other city will. Top Getting Around in Kuala Lumpur The city has an efficient transport network that enables visitors to move around conveniently and economically. Taxi Services Taxi may be hired from taxi stands, hailed by roadsides or through a radio-phone paging system. Tel: 03-2936211, 7330507, 2211011, 7330507, 7815352. City taxis operate by meter. The current rate is RM I.50 for the 1st kilometre and 10 sen for each subsequent 200 metre. Radio taxis charge an additional RM 1.00 for phone bookings. Bus Services There are two types of city buses in Kuala Lumpur, i.e., mini buses and omnibuses. Mini buses charge a standard fare of 60 sen (70 & 90 sen for air-cond mini buses) to any destination within their route. The fare for omnibuses starts at 20 sen and varies with the distance travelled. The following are the major bus terminals in the city: Kelang Bus Station (Bus No: 32 & 33) To Petaling Jaya, Subang Airport, Shah Alam and Port Klang. Jalan Sultan Mohamad Bus Station (Bus No: 13, 19, 32, 40, 42, 48, 244, 274, 31 1, 326, 332, 335, 337, 338 & 793) To Taman Bangsar, Petaling Jaya (Old Town Kelana Jaya and Pantai Buit Damansara. Bang}ok Bank Bus Stand (Bus No: 10, 11, 43 & 71) To Selayang Baru, Segambut Dalam and Batu Caves. Kota Raya Shopping Complex/Menara Maybank (Bus No: 13, 25, 44, 103, 104, 121, 123, 124 & 125) To Jalan Cheras, Sri Petaling, Serdang Lama, Taman Pudu Raya Bus Station (Bus No; 102, 103, 104, 104A, 107, 109, 110 & 133) To Seri Kembangan, Sungei Besi Camp, Balakong, Taman Seri Serdang Kajang. Lebuh Ampang Bus Stand (Bus No: 12, 191) To Taman Greenwood, Kampung Air Panas, Sri Gombak, Taman Setapak and Batu 12 Gombak. Chow Kit Bus Stand (Bus No: 8, 13, 17, 20, 24, 65 & 191) To Kampung Datuk Keramat, Ulu Kelang, Bangsar, Gombak and Jalan Genting Kelang. Top Business Hours Shops generally open from 9.30 am to 7.00 pm while supermarkets and department stores open from 10 am to 10 pm. The bigger stores also remain open on Sundays. Money Changing Foreign currency and travellers cheques may be changed in all commercial banks during banking hours: Mondays to Fridays - 10.00 am to 3.00 pm Saturdays - 9.30 am to 11.30 am Licensed money changers at the airport, international hotels and within the city sometimes offer better rates than banks. Travellers Cheques are also accepted by hotels and major departmental stores but banks give the best rates. Top Tips for Shoppers It is wise to compare prices before you buy to ensure you get the best bargains. Prices in the bigger stores are usually fixed although bargaining is still practised in smaller shops and road side stalls. Check for the correct voltage in electronic and electrical goods. Malaysia, uses 220 volts. Most stores however often sell electrical goods without plugs which may be fitted on request. Top Shopping in Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur, the commercial hub of the country, has its fair share of famous landmarks, historical relics and heritage buildings plus a pulsating night life to keep the visitor occupied day and night. None of these, however, would be complete without the sheer fun and excitement of bargain hunting within the cool comforts of ultra-modem, one-stop shopping complexes or the thrill of browsing among antiques and curio items in the older establishments in the older parts of the city. Mingle with the jostling crowd at the numerous roadside stalls or share in the heady excitement of the carnival like 'pasar malam' or night markets. Top Things you can get in Kuala Lumpur Handicrafts of local origin range from intricate silver, brass and pewter items to pottery, rattan and wickerwork. Batiks of silk and cotton come in tantalisingly vivid hues. The bold designs and dazzling colours of Malaysian Batik set it apart from others within the region. Art objects and curio items from the orient vie for attention with carpets and rugs of lustrous silk and fine wool in traditional designs of intricate geometric motifs or patterned in beautiful flowery designs of pastel hues. There's ready-to-wear apparel of every design and colour and trendy shoes and handbags. From the fashion centres of the world come designer collections, elegant footwear, exclusive watches, optical items and quality fabrics. Electrical appliances, electronic equipment, computers and cameras are available too. And the list goes on..... Top Main shopping areas in Kuala Lumpur The main shopping areas in Kuala Lumpur are the Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman area, Jalan Petaling/ Jalan Bandar area and Jalan Bukit Bintang. Jalan Tuanku Abd. Rahman The main shopping area along Jalan Tuanku Abd. Rahman, stretches from the Jalan Dang Wangi junction to Jalan Tun Perak and is lined on both sides by a quaint mix of ultra modern buildings sandwiched between pre-war buildings whose gracious facades have been lovingly preserved. China Arts and Peiping Lace are a must for lovers of Oriental Art, antiques and curios. Both shops stock an irresistible collection of fine embroidered bed and table lined, carved rosewood furniture, chests and cabinets, Chinese ceramics and jade and ivory carvings. Shops dealing in oriental carpets may also be found here. Jalan Masjid India which runs almost parallel to this area is the place to go to for ethnic goods of Indian origin, sarees, sarongs and textiles. Jalan Bukit Bintang Jalan Bukit Bintang, the 'Golden Mile' of Kuala Lumpur owed its fame in the heyday of the post-war era to 'BB Park', the entertainment complex located on the site of the present Sungei Wang Plaza and BB Plaza. Today, the area is barely recognisable; gone is the gaily lit fairground of merry-go-rounds and ferris wheels and in its place are ultra-modern shopping and commercial complexes, interspersed with towering international standard hotels. Shoppers would lose all sense of time, browsing through the shops of Lot 10, Sungei Wang Plaza, Bukit Bintang Plaza and Kuala Lumpur Plaza. Petaling Street and Jalan Bandar are at the hub of Kuala Lumpur's bustling Chinatown. Shops here offer a variety of textiles, clothes, shoes and handbags at bargain prices. The area is also known for its jewellery shops with their fascinating variety of fine jewellery items beautifully crafted in gold and set with priceless gemstones. Nepalese traders offer exotic ethnic jewellery, wall hangings, ornaments, curios and teapots from India and Burma. Make-shift and mobile stalls jam the streets with their offerings of dried foodstuff, herbs, fruits, flowers and herbal remedies. This is the place to hone your bargaining skills; where a poker face and the 'gift of the gab' would be plus points in your favour. This unusually busy street becomes more lively at night with the sprouting up of stalls offering a diverse range of products from ethnic goods, clothing and cosmetics to 'designer watches'! The bright lights from the shop fronts and stalls combine with the blaring music to lend the area a festive carnival air. Top Fashion/Designer Boutiques The emergence of famous names on the Kuala Lumpur shopping scene is a clear indication that prestige shopping is here to stay! The Lot 10 shopping centre designated its entire 4th floor as the 'Prestige floor' housing exclusive names such as Jaegar, Donna Karan, Nina Ricci and Hanae Mori, to name a few. At City Square, along Jalan Tun Razak, the aura of exclusivity and understated elegance pervades the entire ground floor. Designer boutiques may also be found at Kuala Lumpur Plaza and the Hilton Hotel shopping arcade. Not to be outdone, many other shopping complexes have also alloted several lots to accommodate 'Designer Comers' offering select but impressive range of items. Fashion wear range from classic suits in pure wool and linen, elegant dresses for evenings, chic dresses and smart casuals for day time wear to cheerful, fancy leggings, cycling shorts and sweaters in vivid rainbow colours for the young and 'young at heart'. There is also an equally impressive range of menswear and accessories, leather goods and timepieces and writing instruments, not to mention the mind boggling display of fashion eye wear of every imaginable shape and design. Top Food Outlets Most major shopping centres have a number of restaurants specialising in Malay, Chinese, Indian or Western food located within their premises, for those in a hurry, there's always Mc Donalds or Kentucky Fried Chicken! Some of these complexes devote almost an entire floor to food stalls offering a mouth-watering array of local fast foods. Withs so many food outlets to choose from, the hassle comes only in actually deciding what to eat! Top Asia Travel || Malaysia Hotel & Resorts Malaysia Travel Information
Vacation Packages Preferred Hotels
MouseSavers.com - Disney World Vacation Package Discount Great deals on all things Disney! Find out how to save on: Walt Disney World Walt Disney World Resorts Walt Disney World Vacation Packages Preferred Hotels Near Disney World Other Hotels Near Disney World Tickets & Passes Meals, Snacks & Drinks Entertainment, Activities & Nightlife Other Disney World Savings Time is Money Disneyland Disney Cruise Line Transportation for Your Disney Vacation Other Disney Travel Savings Discount Disney Shopping Mall Live Disney Shows Disney Freebies Disneyland Resort Paris Disney Parks in Asia Disney's Vero Beach/Hilton Head Non-Disney Theme Parks & Attractions More information: About MouseSavers Frequently Asked Questions Trip Reports and Articles Links Testimonials Privacy Policy & Legal Stuff Contact Mary Discounts on Walt Disney World Vacation Packages LAST UPDATE: 12/20/05 - MOST RECENT ADDITIONS ARE IN RED All of the discounted vacation package rates listed below are subject to availability and are PER PERSON, per night, usually for adult double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Adult single occupancy (or one adult plus kids) usually carries a surcharge. Most rooms are set up for 4 people. A few rooms can accommodate 5, mainly at the Deluxe resorts. There are a few rooms with trundle beds at Port Orleans Riverside that can handle 5, but one will have to be small enough to sleep on the trundle; none of the other Moderates can accommodate 5. There are no rooms at the All Stars that accommodate more than 4 people. Not sure which Disney resort to pick for your vacation package? Read about the various resort types and my recommendations for the best values in each resort category. Rates listed do not include tax, which is 11.5% for most resorts, 13% for the All Star Resorts. Jump to: Is a Package For You? 2006 "Magic Your Way" Packages 2005 "Magic Your Way" Packages My Value Recommendations Dream Maker Packages Grand Gatherings (Groups of 8 or More) Trip Insurance Package Specials That Are Available to Anyone: Package Promotions with Small World Vacations Discounted Packages Through Expedia Package Specials With Membership or Residency Required: Florida Resident Packages Canadian Packages Is a Package For You? A lot of people like Disney's vacation packages because they are convenient and worry-free. However, it is important to note that t he standard full-price Disney vacation packages offered by Disney, American Express, Delta Vacations and other tour operators are designed for convenience rather than savings. With the exception of AAA (American Automobile Club) vacation packages, you will NOT automatically get a discount by purchasing a package! It is frequently cheaper to book a " room only " reservation with the AAA discount or another discount and then buy the package components ( tickets , meals , etc) separately. In fact, it used to be that Disney's vacation packages were consistently more expensive than purchasing the components separately. However, Disney has responded to complaints and made package prices more consistent with paying full price for the separate components. Also, Disney sometimes offers special seasonal package discounts . You have to know the special discount codes, which I list here when available. Most Disney World packages must be purchased through Walt Disney Travel Company (WDTC). The WDTC rules about advance payment, cancellations and changes are usually much more restrictive than those associated with "room only" reservations, so be sure to inquire about the restrictions. It can be difficult to sort out what is best for your particular situation. That's why I think it's a good idea to have someone knowledgable on your side, making sure all the details are covered. My advice is this: if you want to book a Walt Disney World vacation package, I strongly recommend using a travel agent who specializes in Disney travel . It costs you nothing, and you can sit back, relax, and have all the vacation planning and hassle taken care of by someone else. 2006 "Magic Your Way" Packages 2006 Magic Your Way packages went on sale 6/30/05. For 2006, you can choose from the following Magic Your Way package options: Disneys Magic Your Way Package The base package helps you experience the magic of a Walt Disney World vacation at an affordable rate. The package includes accommodations at a Disney-owned-and-operated resort hotel, and Magic Your Way base tickets for everyone in the group. Disneys Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining This package includes everything from the Disneys Magic Your Way Package, and adds a dining plan that includes two meals and a snack per person, per package night at more than 100 restaurants across the Walt Disney World Resort. Disneys Magic Your Way Premium Package This deluxe package includes everything from Disneys Magic Your Way Package as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner per person, per package night, along with other exciting options like recreation, theme park tours, admission to the Cirque du Soleil show La Nouba and more. Disneys Magic Your Way Platinum Package - Due to popular demand, Disney is bringing back the Platinum Plan for 2006. In addition to your hotel room and tickets, this "ultimate luxury" plan includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and room service, unlimited recreation (bicycle and boat rentals), unlimited select tours, reserved seating for Fantasmic! , private golf lessons, one selected spa treatment, tickets for Cirque du Soleil La Nouba , unlimited child care in the resort Child Activity Centers, in-room child care, Fireworks Cruise, itinerary planning, Platinum Plan keepsake and turndown service. 2005 "Magic Your Way" Packages On January 2, 2005, Walt Disney World Resort unveiled an innovative new vacation package system called Magic Your Way. These vacation packages provide a wide range of options that allow you to design a Walt Disney World vacation that matches your needs and desires. The basis of the new packages is a completely new admission ticket system. The new Magic Your Way Tickets offer savings that grow the more days you visit. The new tickets offer the flexibility of adding options like Park Hopping or water park visits to theme park tickets or selecting a vacation package that includes meals. For that reason, Disneys Magic Your Way Vacations put you in control of framing the vacation that best suits your desires and budgets. The Magic Your Way packages have no minimum length of stay . Also, in most cases the length of the ticket no longer has to correspond with the number of nights a guest is planning to stay at the Walt Disney World Resort. So if you want to stay 5 nights and buy a 1-day ticket, you can do that! The exception is that guests selecting Disneys Magic Your Way Premium Package are required to have the length of the Magic Your Way passes be equal to the number of nights of the resort stay plus one day. You can choose from the following Magic Your Way package options: Disneys Magic Your Way Package The base package helps you experience the magic of a Walt Disney World vacation at an affordable rate. The package includes accommodations at a Disney-owned-and-operated resort hotel, and Magic Your Way base tickets for everyone in the group. Disneys Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining This package includes everything from the Disneys Magic Your Way Package, and adds a dining plan that includes two meals and a snack per person, per package night at more than 100 restaurants across the Walt Disney World Resort. Disneys Magic Your Way Premium Package This deluxe package includes everything from Disneys Magic Your Way Package as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner per person, per package night, along with other exciting options like recreation, theme park tours, admission to the Cirque du Soleil show La Nouba and more. My Value Recommendations for 2006 The first thing you need to bear in mind is that Disney REALLY wants you to stay for 6 nights/7 days. For that reason, the Magic Your Way Packages are heavily discounted on longer (5 to 7 day) stays . Staying for 7 days costs only a little more than staying 4 days! So live it up -- take the longer vacation. For most people, the Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining is the best value. To add the dining plan to a basic package, you pay only $37.99 per night per adult, $10.99 per night per child (ages 3-9), plus tax. For that amount you'll get a sit-down meal, a counter-service meal and a snack each day! That is a terrific value -- it is easy to get your money's worth. The best part is that the new dining plan is flexible , allowing you to swap a sit-down meal for a Character meal, or use two sit-down meals to attend a dinner show or eat at one of the higher-priced restaurants. You also have flexibility in when you use the meals. If you want to eat three of your sit-down meals in one day, you can. The higher level packages are really luxurious, but for the average family they are also serious overkill. First of all, eating the included three full meals a day is just too much for most people. But if you're like me, you'll feel compelled to eat all those darn meals, because you're paying for them! These upper-level packages also include lots of unlimited extras like recreation (i.e. boating) and behind-the-scenes tours, which sound great -- until you factor in the hot and humid Florida weather and the extensive walking, which slow most people's energy level to a crawl by the end of the day. The reality is, it's highly unlikely that you will play tennis in the afternoon and attend a Cirque du Soleil show in the evening, on top of spending your day in the theme parks. But to get your money's worth out of the Premium Package or the Platinum Package, you really need to be taking advantage of such "extras" every day. My Value Recommendations for 2005 The first thing you need to bear in mind is that Disney REALLY wants you to stay for 6 nights/7 days. For that reason, the Magic Your Way Packages are heavily discounted on longer (5 to 7 day) stays . Staying for 7 days now costs only a little more than staying 4 days! So live it up -- take the longer vacation. For most people, the Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining is the best value. To add the dining plan to a basic package, you pay only $35 per night per adult, $10 per night per child (ages 3-9), plus tax. For that amount you'll get a sit-down meal, a counter-service meal and a snack each day! That is a terrific value -- it is easy to get your money's worth. The best part is that the new dining plan is flexible , allowing you to swap a sit-down meal for a Character meal, or use two sit-down meals to attend a dinner show or eat at one of the higher-priced restaurants. You also have flexibility in when you use the meals. If you want to eat three of your sit-down meals in one day, you can. The higher level packages are really luxurious, but for the average family they are also serious overkill. First of all, eating the included three full meals a day is just too much for most people. But if you're like me, you'll feel compelled to eat all those darn meals, because you're paying for them! These upper-level packages also include lots of unlimited extras like recreation (i.e. boating) and behind-the-scenes tours, which sound great -- until you factor in the hot and humid Florida weather and the extensive walking, which slow most people's energy level to a crawl by the end of the day. The reality is, it's highly unlikely that you will play tennis in the afternoon and attend a Cirque du Soleil show in the evening, on top of spending your day in the theme parks. But to get your money's worth out of the Premium Package, you really need to be taking advantage of such "extras" every day. Dream Maker Packages You cannot purchase the Dream Maker packages anymore. Disney stopped selling them on 1/1/05, replacing them with the new "Magic Your Way" packages . However, Dream Maker packages purchased before that time will be honored for stays in 2005 and fulfilled according to the original offers. You can also choose to change a Dream Maker package to a Magic Your Way package if you wish -- contact Disney or your travel agent for help with the conversion. I have included links to information about the old Dream Maker packages below for those who have already purchased one of these packages and want information for their trip planning. Jump to: Dream Maker Package Dream Maker Silver Package Dream Maker Gold Package Dream Maker Platinum Package Dream Maker with Romance Plan Dream Maker with Princess and Prince Plan Grand Gatherings (Groups of 8 or More) With family and multiple-household travel increasing over the past few years, Walt Disney World has created a new program called Grand Gatherings, which is designed to provide special opportunities for groups traveling with 8 or more people ages 3 and up. (Babies under 3 can still come along, of course, but aren't counted toward the minimum number of people required to participate.) Grand Gatherings offers special benefits and one-of-a-kind experiences that may not be available to smaller groups attending Walt Disney World. As part of a Grand Gatherings group you will have the option of booking special events with your group. These include: International Dinner and IllumiNations Desert Reception This event offers international cuisine. Following dinner the children in the audience are invited up onto the stage to hear a classic Disney story by the bookmark storyteller. After the story there is a character meet-and-greet, a dessert reception and VIP viewing of the IllumiNations fireworks. The International Dinner experience is available on selected evenings at Epcot. Adults (10 and older) $59.99, children (ages 3-9) $24.99. Safari Celebration Dinner This event takes place at Disney's Animal Kingdom where your party will embark upon the Kilimanjaro Safari with a private guide. Following the safari is a dinner at Tusker House Restaurant with up-close animal visits, a Q & A and a visit from Terk and Timon. The Safari Celebration Dinner experience is available on selected evenings at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Adults (10 and older) $59.99, children (ages 3-9) $24.99. Good Morning Gathering A breakfast event at Tony's Town Square Restaurant. Guests are escorted from the front gate of the Magic Kingdom and served by Tony and other Disney characters. Included is some one-on-one time with Mickey Mouse. Beginning in 2006, this event will include reserved seats to experience Mickey's PhilHarmagic after breakfast . The Good Morning Gathering experience is available on selected mornings at the Magic Kingdom. Adults (10 and older) $26.99, children (ages 3-9) $13.99. As of 1/1/06, prices are Adults (10 and older) $39.99, children (ages 3-9) $19.99. Magical Fireworks Voyage This dessert party is hosted by Captain Hook and Smee and is followed by a cruise of the Seven Seas Lagoon to view the fireworks and Electrical Water Pageant. The evening concludes with a telling of the Peter Pan story, and Peter Pan greets your group upon return. The Magical Fireworks Voyage experience is available seasonally on selected evenings on the Seven Seas Lagoon near the Magic Kingdom. Adults (10 and older) $34.99, children (ages 3-9) $19.99. A Grand Gatherings group can book one of these special events, or all of them. Experiences will be shared by multiple Grand Gathering parties. Valid theme park admission is required for all Grand Gathering experiences except the Magical Fireworks Voyage. The same experience must be purchased by at least 8 guests (based on ages 3 and up) in the party. Experiences and dates are subject to change and weather conditions. Availability is limited. Reservations can be made from 90 to 6 days in advance (beginning 1/1/06, you can reserve 190 to 3 days in advance), and full payment for each experience is required 45 days prior to arrival. May be cancelled up to 6 days prior to first Grand Gathering Experience without penalty. Pricing includes gratuities/service charge(s). For 2006, you can use dining plan credits from the Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining for the three Grand Gatherings experiences that include a meal (International Dinner and IllumiNations Dessert Party, Safari Celebration Dinner and Good Morning Gathering): each experience requires 2 table service options per person. If you are on the Magic Your Way Premium or Magic Your Way Platinum package, the Grand Gatherings experiences will "cost" only one table service option per person. There are also custom events that can be arranged for your group's special needs, including dinner parties, behind-the-scenes tours, group photographs, spa experiences and golf. Interested in organizing a Grand Gathering? Here are four steps to follow when planning your group: Invite your friends and family to join you on vacation. You may want to read my page on organizing a reunion at Walt Disney World . Decide on the best time for your group to go. Consider family celebrations, holidays or special events that are going on at Walt Disney World. If your dates are somewhat flexible, try to go in the off-season. For more advice on when to go, click here . Choose your resort hotel. In order to qualify for a Grand Gathering, at least 80% of your group must be staying on Disney property. Guests not staying on property or at a Good Neighbor Hotel cannot participate in Grand Gathering events. You can select one resort or several to suit the individual needs of your group, and you can book the rooms as part of a package or as "room only" reservations. Use a travel agent. By using a travel agent who specializes in Disney , you can make the most of your money and time, allowing them to coordinate everything for your group. They can also do additional research and bookings for you. Trip Insurance It is especially important to buy trip insurance for a vacation package , because you have to pay the entire cost in advance and you won't get a refund if you have to cancel right before your scheduled departure. With hundreds or even thousands of dollars at stake, it's worth it to protect the investment. As events in 2004 proved, it's super-important to buy insurance if you will be visiting Walt Disney World on a package vacation during peak hurricane season (roughly the months of August and September). While Disney World weathered the 2004 hurricanes very well, guests were stuck in their rooms for up to 36 hours and many had major travel problems because airports were closed. While Disney did waive "no-show" fees for a few dates, those whose trips began before the specified dates (but whose travel plans overlapped with the hurricane) or just afterward were out of luck. Many people had similar problems with their airfares. The airlines allowed highly restrictive changes for certain dates without extra fees, but many of those who had to reschedule could not work within the airlines' narrow rules and just had to suck up the extra cost. Perhaps the most important coverage included in a trip insurance policy is trip cancellation and interruption insurance , which can protect your investment if you have to cancel your vacation at the last minute (or come home early) due to illness or injury. Depending on the policy, you may be covered if you cancel for other reasons, such as jury duty, terrorism at your destination, or even unemployment. Emergency medical coverage and medical evacuation insurance are very important if you become ill or injured during the trip. Otherwise you're on your own as far as booking very expensive last-minute airfare to get home. And if you're too ill to travel by commercial jet, you may have to pay for treatment in Florida (which your personal insurance may or may not cover) or for evacuation on a medically-equipped jet, which is incredibly expensive. Delayed baggage insurance will help you pay for replacement clothing if the airline sends your suitcase to Timbuktu and you need something to wear in the meantime. Supplemental baggage insurance will pay a predetermined amount if an airline loses your luggage completely. (Some higher-end credit cards provide extra baggage insurance, so check with your card issuer before paying extra for this coverage.) Disney sells trip insurance (which is provided by Access America), but it's expensive and it has major exclusions. For instance, it does not cover pre-existing medical conditions, most airline delays, terrorism or unemployment -- but there are many policies available from other companies that will cover these things. You can almost always get better insurance than Disney provides, and at better rates, by buying it elsewhere. Be aware that in most cases, trip insurance will provide slightly less coverage (usually by adding exclusions on pre-existing conditions) unless you buy it within about 14 days of paying your DEPOSIT on the vacation package. So be sure to purchase it right away, once you've committed to the trip. A great place to comparison-shop for trip insurance is InsureMyTrip.com , where you can see side-by-side policy information and rates for major, reputable insurance companies. I used InsureMyTrip.com myself to buy trip insurance. I saved about $25 and got much more comprehensive coverage than Disney's policy would have provided. Package Promotions with Small World Vacations I've been working with Sue Pisaturo at Small World Vacations to develop some nice package promotions that will add extra value to your vacation. Watch this space for information! Discounted Packages Through Expedia When discounted packages are offered, the same vacation package discounts that are offered through other travel agencies (and directly by Disney) are usually also available online through Expedia . The discounted rates are listed as "promotional rates" or are given special names such as "Magical Fall Rates." Be aware that Expedia makes it look as if you can book "room only" reservations at these special rates, but you really can't. Later in the ordering process you are forced to add on theme park tickets, which makes the purchase into a vacation package. Generally speaking you're better off to book the corresponding discounted package through a travel agent, because Expedia has rules and requirements that can be confusing, plus Expedia charges fees. In general Expedia is not very forgiving about changes and cancellations, and may charge significant fees for such changes. If you decide to use Expedia , be sure to read all the small print very carefully, and click on any "terms and conditions" links and read those carefully. Hints for best Expedia search results: Click on the bubble next to Orlando and enter your dates, number of rooms, and number of people traveling. On the next page, go over to the left panel and type DISNEY'S (or the name of a specific hotel, such as Contemporary) in the hotel name field, then search again. This will narrow the search so that you don't get pages and pages of results. Florida Resident Packages No current offers. Canadian Packages No current offers. Back to the home page Back to top Content of MouseSavers.com is © Mary Waring & MouseSavers 2001-2005. No part of this website may be reproduced in whole or in part without permission.
Hotel Travel
O'Reilly Open Source Convention - August 1-5, 2005 - Portland, OR ! -- Home Why Attend ! -- Invitation to Attend Registration Speakers Keynotes Sessions Tutorials Schedule Open Source Business Review Events BOFs Wiki Exhibitors Sponsors Hotel/Travel See & Do Convention Coverage Submit a Proposal ! -- Newsletter O'Reilly Conferences ! -- Portland, Oregon! -- Hotel and Travel Information Hotel Info | Directions | Room Sharing | Restaurants | Travel Assistance | Rental Cars | Airline Tickets Event Headquarters Hotel DoubleTree Hotel & Executive Meeting Center Portland - Lloyd Center 1000 NE Multnomah Portland, OR 97232 Phone: 503-281-6111 Fax: 503-284-8553 Open Source Convention Room Rate Discounted Room Rate: $129.00 (This rate is for single or double. Triple or quad occupancy is $15.00 per person extra. Looking for a roommate? ) The cutoff date to make your room reservations is Thursday, July 7, 2005 . In order to receive the discounted room rate, you must request the group rate for "O'Reilly Media, Inc." Reservations received after the cutoff date of July 7, 2005 or when the room block is sold out (whichever comes first) will be honored on a space-available basis at the prevailing rate of the hotel. Hotel room rates are subject to applicable state & local taxes (currently 12.5%) in effect at time of check-in. Make your hotel reservations by phone. Call: The hotel directly at (503) 281-6111. Make your hotel reservations On-line: Go to the DoubleTree Hotel website . Under "Check Availability", enter your arrival and departure dates and click "go". On the next page - "Select Your Reservation Details", select your room type preference and under "Special Accounts" in Group/Convention Code, type "OMI". Click "continue" and follow the steps to complete your reservation. Alternate Hotel If you are unable to make a room reservation at the OSCON headquarters hotel (DoubleTree Hotel & Executive Meeting Center) O'Reilly Media has secured additional rooms. Red Lion Hotel Portland Convention Center 1021 N. E. Grand Avenue Portland OR 97232 Phone: (503) 235-2100 Toll Free: 800-343-1822 Rate: $109.00 plus 12.5% tax (subject to change) Deadline: June 28, 2005 Distance to OSCON: Across the street from the Convention Center more info Getting There Portland International Airport (PDX) The Portland Int'l Airport serves approximately 120 domestic and international cities by 17 commercial airlines. Arrival/Departure Information Direction To/From PDX Gate Locations at PDX Ground Transportation Information at PDX (including car rental info) MAX Light Rail For cheap & convenient transportation from the Portland International Airport (PDX) to the hotels and Convention Center, hop aboard the Airport MAX light rail "Red Line". The Double Tree Hotel and Executive Meeting Center Portland Lloyd Center, the Red Lion Portland Convention Center and the Oregon Convention Center are located on the MAX light rail line with service between the Hotels and Portland International Airport. For a minimal fee, (currently $1.70) MAX will transport guests from the Airport directly to the Hotels doorsteps. Service runs every 15 minutes seven days a week between 4:30 a.m. and 11:30 p.m. Driving Directions Visit the DoubleTree website for customized driving directions from your unique starting point to theDoubleTree Hotel & Executive Meeting Center Portland -Lloyd Center. From the North (Seattle) Stay on I-5 South. Take the OMSI/Oregon City exit (#300B), remain in the right lane. Exit onto the Morrison Bridge, remain in the right lane. Take the ramp to Front Avenue (Naito Parkway) which makes a sharp loop to the right, going back under the bridge. Head south on Front Avenue (Naito Parkway), the hotel is located 8 blocks on the right. From the South (Salem) Take Rose Quarter-City center exit 302A. At the first light, take a right on Weidler. Go to 9th Avenue and take a right. Go to the second light and the hotel is on the left. From the East (Portland Airport) Follow Airport way to I-205 South. Then take I-84 West, go approximately 5 miles to exit 1 Lloyd Blvd. Go to the second light off of the exit and take a right. Go 1 and 1/2 blocks and Lloyd Center is on the left.. Parking Valet Parking $21.00 per night Self Parking $18.00 per day Room Sharing If you are looking to save money on your housing costs, you may wish to room-share. We have set up a room-share mailing list to facilitate finding a suitable roommate. Please visit the Room Sharing page on the OSCON Wiki to submit your information and be added to the mailing list. The list will be updated and broadcast weekly. Travel Assistance The official O'Reilly conference travel planner offers one-stop shopping for your air travel and other travel needs in connection with your attendance at the O'Reilly Open Source Convention. Vivian V. Russell Travel Services 182 Farmers Lane, Suite 102 Santa Rosa, CA 95405 Email: vivianv@sonic.net Phone: (707) 525-0550, Fax: (707) 525-0560 Rental Cars Should you choose to make travel arrangements independently, you may contact Hertz directly to receive the special O'Reilly discount on rental cars at the O'Reilly Open Source Convention. To reserve a car with your special rate, call Hertz : 1 (800) 654-2240 in the U.S. 1 (800) 263-0600 in Canada (405) 749-4434 outside of these areas or call your nearest Hertz reservation center, your corporate travel department, or your travel agent. You must give the agent the Hertz CV CV#01XY0025 . Air Travel United Airlines is the official airline of the O'Reilly Open Source Convention. If you or your travel gent call United's toll-free number (1-800-521-4041) to bookyour reservations, you will recieve a 5% discount off the lowest applicable discountfare, including First Class or a 10% discount off full fare unrestricted coach fares,purchased 7 days in advance. An additional 5% discount will apply when tickets arepurchased at least 30 days in advance of your travel date. Discounts also apply onShuttle by United and United Express. Call United Specialized Meeting ReservationsCenter at 1-800-521-4041 to obtain the best fares and schedule information. Youmust refer to Meeting ID #539GN in order to receive the convention attendee discount. O'Reilly Media, Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability for the facilities or services provided by the vendors and suppliers. Anyone attending this convention releases O'Reilly from any and all claims that may arise out of attending at this convention. ! -- Diamond Sponsors Platinum Sponsors Gold Sponsors Silver Sponsors Media Sponsors In-Kind Sponsors Sponsors OSCON 2005 Sponsor Opportunities — Call Andrew Calvo at 707-829-0515 or email at Download the OSCON 05 Sponsor/Exhibitor Prospectus OSCON 2005 Media Sponsor Opportunities — Call Margi Levin at 707-827-7184 or email at Press and Media For media-related inquiries, contact Suzanne Axtell at Conference News Want to receive conference news? Sign up for our email newsletter. O'Reilly Home | Privacy Policy © 2005, O'Reilly Media, Inc.
Central America Travel Go
Belize, Central America - Travel Tourism and Vacation Information for Visitors You are here: About > Travel > Mexico / Central America for Visitors > Belize, Central America Travel Go Mexico Essentials Packing List for Travelers to Mexico Health Information Mexico / C. America Safety Considerations Travel Books Mexico and Central America Tourism Offices Mexico/ Central America Articles & Resources Mexico Mexico City Acapulco, Mexico Cancun Yucatan Baja Los Cabos Puerto Vallarta Other Places Photos of Mexico Belize, Central America Costa Rica El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Nicaragua Panama Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Mexico / Central America for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search Mexico / Central America for Visitors > Belize, Central America Belize, Central America, Travel Tourism and Vacation Information A selection of online travel related resources to the country of Belize, Central America, with information on accommodations, attractions, history, culture, geography and more. Belize travel tourism vacation information for visitors. Articles & Resources Sort By : Guide Picks | Alphabetical | Recent Belize, Central America Among other attractions, Belize offers visitors the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, tropical islands with pristine beaches and lush foliage, many historical Maya archeological sites and some truly exotic wildlife. Find out more here. Belize - A Virtual Tour If you are looking for an "off the beaten track" vacation, Belize may be the place to go. Visit this site and take a virtual tour of Belize - the small Central American country with the longest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere. Belize - Planeta.com, Eco Travels Get information and read articles about ecotourism in Belize. Enjoy this country's flora, jungles, reefs, wildlife and more. Belize Fact Book Get some basic factual background, data and maps on the country of Belize. The information on this site was compiled by the Central Intelligence Agency. Belize Online A well designed and organized site for prospective visitors to Belize. The site has information on where to stay, Belize culture, ancient treasures and natural assets. Belize Tourism Board This is the official site of the Belize Tourism Board. Find maps, search for accommodations and get information on the history, culture and geography of Belize, as well as suggested sightseeing attractions. Magnum - Belize Tours This tour operator's site has information on more than 45 personally-selected and inspected resort properties in Belize. The site also has guides to the top attractions in Belize and offers tips on shopping and outdoor adventures. Maps of Belize Find several detailed political, topographical and road maps of Belize. This site also has maps for cities and districts. Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Buying Real Estate in Mexico Puerto Vallarta Cozumel, Mexico Whale Watching Fishing In Mexico Headlines Top 6 Travel Books for Mexico and Central America There are many travel guidebooks devoted to Mexico and to... Health Information for Visitors to Mexico and Central America This article provides a summary of the more important health... Safety Considerations for Travelers to Mexico and Central America Travel to Mexico and Central America is not significantly less... Acapulco, Mexico Once a favorite destination of honeymooners, celebrities and the...
Cruise vacation Oceania Cruises
Oceania Cruises - Intimate Luxury Oceania Cruise Vacation Guide Oceania Cruises: Oceania Cruise Vacations Site Index Oceania Cruise Luxury Cruises Vacation Guide Virtuoso, Oceania Cruise Consultants Call 1 800 330 8820 to book your Oceania Cruise vacation Oceania Cruises Cruise Itineraries Asia/Far East Itineraries Caribbean Itineraries Europe Itineraries Scandinavia/Russia Itineraries South America Itineraries Transoceanic Oceania Cruises, Oceania Cruise Guide, Luxury Oceania Cruises, Romantic Oceania Cruises Join us as Oceania Cruises takes you to the most extraordinary ports in the world. We have all the amenities you expect, all the luxuries you dream of - available at fares that are surprisingly affordable. Oceania Cruises features two intimate and luxurious 684 passenger ships, REGATTA sm and INSIGNIA sm. Oceania Cruises' hallmarks are an unsurpassed culinary experience, a casually elegant atmosphere and unparalleled personal service coupled with extraordinary value. The line's inaugural season will feature itineraries to Western Europe, the Mediterranean, and Scandinavia. The itineraries have been tailored to include overnight port stays to allow passengers to immerse themselves in the history, culture and local flavor of the region. "Explore the enchantment of Europe in unrivaled comfort" At Oceania Cruises, we've tailored our itineraries to include overnight stays at some of Europe's most alluring ports to allow you the time to immerse yourself in the rich history, culture and local flavors. You will also have more time to explore and experience the culture, tastes and sights of this land so steeped in history because we usually sail at night, arriving at a new port each morning. On most European itineraries, Oceania Cruises calls on a minimum of 8 ports in 4 to 9 different European countries. Discover Seville's artistic and architectural wonders. Marvel at the medieval treasures and royal majesty of St. Petersburg. Step back in time as you visit the "Eternal City" of Rome where you revel in its history, its bustling streets and quiet piazzas. We are a member of Virtuoso - Specialists in the Art of Travel. Described by Conde Nast Traveler as "a network of the finest agencies...a reliable indicator of experience, knowledge, and industry clout." We are recommended by the Discovery Travel Channel, Conde Nast Traveler, ESPN TV, Fine Living TV, and Neiman Marcus Awards Program. Oceania Cruises is pleased to offer our guests an extensive array of optional shore excursions. Explore the countryside of Bordeaux and its lovely chateaux. Tour the Hermitage in St. Petersburg. And visit other exotic places that every traveler dreams of. Delight your palate as you taste regional flavors and sample local wines with our Epicurean Excursions (available on select sailings). These tours are designed to enhance your cruise experience by immersing you in the flavors and wines of the regions you're visiting. A detailed booklet will be available with your cruise documents. Note: The prices listed in this guide are published fares - we often have cruise specials at substantially lower rates. Please use our "Cruise Vacation Planner" and our agents will tell you about all available specials. During this time of price volatility in the travel and cruise industry, please be advised the pricing can fluctuate within the same day. All of our promotions are subject to change without notice. As a result, prices will not be guaranteed until booked. Click here to book your Oceania Cruise Vacation Click here to submit a vacation planner to our Virtuoso Travel Specialists Client Testimonials Search Your Vacation, Tour or Cruise Oceania Cruises Cruise Information Dining The Ships Shipboard Life Oceania Club Other Helpful Travel Links Helpful Cruise Info Contact Us Free, Full Service Oceania Cruises Vacation Planners Click here to save money, time and stress planning, making reservations, or booking your Oceania Cruises vacation with our full service Virtuoso Travel Consultants . We are recommended, authorized Virtuoso Oceania Cruises Travel Consultants, and will arrange every little detail to make sure you have a wonderful, carefree vacation experience at no extra charge! You may call our Oceania Cruises Travel Consultants, but first--- we'd really appreciate it if you complete our "Oceania Cruises Vacation Planner" so we have all your requirements beforehand and are prepared to present you with all your options and up-to-the-minute specials. Thank you very much! Call 1- 800 -330 -8820 to book your Oceania Cruises vacation. For Luxury Vacations: "Worldwide Luxury Vacation Planner" For Luxury Tours: "Worldwide Tour Planner" After you've completed your Oceania Cruises vacation planner you may call 1- 800 -330 -8820 to book your Oceania Cruises vacation. Thank you very much! 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