European Vacation" tour on


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NATIONAL LAMPOON'S VACATION at HOLLYWOOD TEEN MOVIES National Lampoon's The "Vacation" films are available to buy from "Movies Unlimited". Click the movie titles below for details: Main Menu / About This Site / Email Tony / Survey / Guestbook / Buy a Movie / Links / Home Page 1950's / 60's / 70's / 80's / 90's / 2000 / Musicals / Action / Blockbusters / Disney / Elvis / Slashers A to Z List / Updates / Extras / Galleries / Pictorial History / Quizzes / Movie News / Actor / Actress Support Hollywood Teen Movies Visit our Sponsors: Hollywood Teen Movies Presents Teen Music Store 1 / Teen Music Store 2 / Blockbuster Music Store DVD Video Stores / Book Store / Poster Stores Above: The Griwold's in the first instalment "National Lampoon's Vacation" (1983). The Legend of The Griswold Family The "VACATION" Players John Hughes (Writer) : Profile / Video Store Chevy Chase : Video Store Beverly D'Angelo : Video Store Randy Quaid: Video Store John Candy: Video Store Anthony Michael Hall : Video Store Wayne Newton: Video Store National Lampoon's Vacation (1983) VACATION The Traveling Griswold's, they've been everywhere from "Walley World" to "Europe" to "Vegas". They travel so much that on only one occasion did they have time to spend Christmas at home and what a disaster it was. This page is a tribute to Clark Wilhelm Griswold Jr., "The World's Greatest Family Man". Clark believes that the best way to keep his family together is to take them on "Vacation". One thing is for sure when the Griswold's go on "Vacation" anything and everything can happen. The legacy of this typical American family began in 1983 when Clark (Chevy Chase) and his wife Ellen (Beverly D'Angelo) decided to take their kids Rusty and Audrey on a cross-country summer vacation to a Disneyland type theme park known as Walley World. This was to be the Griswold's first big trip away from home. Clark left nothing to chance using his new wiz-bang home computer to streamline all the finer details to ensure nothing went wrong. The Griswold's had been planning this perfect summer vacation all year and they were determined to make the most of it, but as they say "nothing ever goes according to plan", especially for the Griswold's. What could possibly go wrong, everything! They lose their money, their new car gets wrecked and Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid) insists that Clark takes old Aunt Edna with them cross-country. Well if you thought things couldn't get any worse for the Griswold's, your wrong, old Aunt Edna unexpectedly dies and thrown in for good measure just to distract Clark from all the madness is the mysterious blonde (Christie Brinkley) in the flashy red Ferrari. This first Griswold adventure "National Lampoon's Vacation" introduces us to Chevy Chase's hilarious portrayal of Clark W. Griswold. This fast, funny satire written by John Hughes was a big success at the American box office bringing in over $61 million. Look out for a special appearance by comedy genius John Candy in the film's finale. Outstanding performances, beautiful location scenery (Grand Canyon Arizona, Monument Valley Utah, Magic Mountain California ), a first rate soundtrack ("Holiday Road" and "Dancin' Cross The U.S.A" by Lindsey Buckingham, plus "I'm So Excited" by The Pointer Sisters) and extremely funny situations have all contributed to the success of this highly entertaining comedy. It was inevitable that sequels would follow. "For over two thousand years, Europe has survived many great disasters. Now for the real test. Chevy Chase & his family are coming from America!" In this 1985 sequel, the Griswold's win a deluxe "European Vacation" tour on a primetime TV game show. When the disaster prone Griswold family pack their bags and go to Europe, anything goes. In fact Europe will never be the same again. Their promised 5 star accommodation is missing a few stars and the fun doesn't let up as Clark has a go at left-hand driving, Audrey eats herself silly, Rusty goes nightclubbing and Clark's sexy home video ends up in the hands of a sleazy porno filmmaker. The Griswold's literally bowl over Stonehenge as they wreak havoc on their journey across the European continent. Sadly in this episode Clark's gross-out Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid) is absent, nevertheless "European Vacation" still brought in a neat $49.4 million at the US box office. Your vision of Christmas will never be the same again when the Griswold's decide to spend their Christmas holidays at home. In "Christmas Vacation" (1989) Clark wants to make sure his family enjoys Christmas the old-fashioned way, so the well-intentioned walking disaster zone invites the relatives and decides to light up his house like a Christmas tree. He gets 25,000 lights and covers the house from head to toe, but Clark is quickly driven insane when the lights refuse to switch on. The plot thickens when Clark discovers he has missed out on his Christmas bonus cheque that he was going to use to install a swimming pool in the backyard. Temperatures continue to rise when uninvited Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid) turns up in his mobile home and when Clark kidnaps his boss in retaliation for not receiving his bonus cheque a SWAT team raids his house. "Christmas Vacation" was a smash hit and became the highest grossing of the four "Vacation" films bringing in over $71million at the US box office. Bumbling family man Clark Griswold is back in "Vegas Vacation" (1997), the fourth instalment of the "Vacation" series and as the movie poster says, "This time the Griswold's are on a roll." "Vegas Vacation" was a moderate hit at the US box office grossing $36.4 million. When Clark receives a work bonus for developing a food preservative, he spends the money in the only way he knows how, take the family on "Vacation". This time the Griswold's head off to the gambling capital of the world Las Vegas or as Clark would prefer to say "the new family entertainment capital of the world". The glitz and glamour of the Vegas casinos form the perfect backdrop for this Griswold family adventure. Randy Quaid is back as Clark's grubby goofball cousin Eddie and Mr.Las Vegas himself, crooner Wayne Newton adds to the atmosphere as he tries to romance Clark's wife Ellen (Beverly D'Angelo). To add to the hilarity, Clark nearly destroys the famous Hover Dam, takes part in a Siegfried and Roy disappearing trick and loses the family fortune to a shifty blackjack dealer, played with expertise by Wallace Shawn. Even old favourite Sid Caesar makes an unexpected but memorable appearance in the film's nail-bitting finale. "Vegas Vacation" has a fitting ending to a wonderful series of four films when it is revealed that Clark's son Rusty (Ethan Embry) has won 4 brand new vehicles during his round the clock gambling binge. In the final scene Clark, Ellen, Audrey and Rusty ride out of Vegas and onto the dusty desert highway leaving the audience with a smile on their faces and anxiously waiting for the fifth instalment. National Lampoon's European Vacation (1985) National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989) Vegas Vacation (1997) The "Vacation" Gallery The Vacation Video Collection Above: The fourth film in the series "Vegas Vacation" (1997), Clark and Ellen descide to renew their wedding vows. Above: Mr. Las Vegas himself, crooner Wayne Newton is a special guest star in "Vegas Vacation" (1997). Below: One of the most popular characters in the "Vacation" series is Clark's grubby goofball cousin Eddie played brilliantly by Randy Quaid. Right: Chevy Chase's wife, Ellen is played by the talented & beautiful Beverly D'Angelo. Above: The mysterious blonde (Christie Brinkley) in the flashy red Ferrari pops up in the first & fourth films of the series. Series Quote by Tony: "Hollywoood Teen Movies" Webmaster. "If you have never experienced a Chevy Chase "Vacation" film you are really missing out on something!" Right: Chevy Chase as Clark Wilhelm Griswold Jr. Chevy Chase Posters Now Avalible To Buy Click the posters below for purchasing details: This page was last updated February 18th 2003 Support Hollywood Teen Movies Main Menu Bars: National Lampoon's Vacation [DVD] (1983) DVD Join Chevy Chase and family on a madcap vacation trek through the U.S. On this trip, everything happens: cars go out of control, beautiful model Christie Brinkley shows up, along with John Candy, and relatives prove weirder than you'd ever think. Beverly D'Angelo, Imogene Coca, Randy Quaid. 93 min. Standard; English soundtrack; Subtitles: English, French, Spanish; theatrical trailer; scene access. National Lampoon's European Vacation [DVD] (1989) DVD The Griswold family is off on another hilarious holiday, and while America is safe, the Old World may never recover! Watch as Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo and their kids raise havoc from London to Rome on a wacky continental comedy trip. 94 min. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtracks: English, French; Subtitles: Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai; audio commentary; theatrical trailer. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation [DVD] (1989) DVD It's hilarious holiday havoc for Chevy Chase and his brood, as the Griswolds' plans for an old-fashioned family Christmas go up in smoke (just like their cat!) when a horde of boorish relatives descend upon their home. Comedic carol of calamities also stars Beverly D'Angelo, Randy Quaid, Brian Doyle-Murray, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Juliette Lewis. 97 min. Standard; Soundtracks: English, French, Spanish; Subtitles: English, French, Spanish; theatrical trailers; scene access. Vegas Vacation [DVD] (1997) DVD It's a sure bet for comical calamity when Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo and their offspring pack up the car and head for the neon lights of Las Vegas. Once there, the Griswold kids get mixed up with mobsters and go-go dancers, D'Angelo is wooed by Wayne Newton, and Chevy winds up on stage with Siegfried and Roy. Randy Quaid also stars. 98 min. Standard; Soundtracks: English, French; Subtitles: English, French, Spanish; theatrical trailer; production notes; scene access. National Lampoon's Vacation (1983) VHS National Lampoon's European Vacation (1985) VHS National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989) VHS Vegas Vacation (1997) VHS Vacation 4-Pack VHS What's cheaper than a family trip to Wally World and even more fun? How about this boxed collector's set featuring Chevy Chase starring in all four "Vacation" comedies? Buy This Photo At AllPosters.com Buy This Photo At AllPosters.com [ Sign my GuestBook ] - [ Read my GuestBook ] [Guestbook by theGuestbook.com ] FREE hit counter and Internet traffic statistics from freestats.com
Asia Travel
PHILIPPINES TRAVEL INFORMATION Philippines Country Information The Land || History || The People || First-time Traveler Tips || Visas || Customs || Currency || Weather Clothing || Utilities || Newspapers & Media || Business Hours || Language || Getting Around Modes of Transport || Weather Conditions || Things to Know || Sightseeing || Museums and Art Further Information The Land The Philippines is an archipelagic nation made up of 7,107 islands spanning 1,840 kilometers north to south. It is part of the East Indies, a vast island group lying south and east of mainland Asia, with Taiwan at its northernmost coast and Borneo on the south. The three main Philippine island groups are Luzon , the Visayas and Mindanao . Luzon is the island of contrasts. The most modern districts in the Philippines , including the capital city of Manila , are in Luzon , but so are some of the oldest tribal communities in the nation like the Ifugao of the Cordilleras. Luzon is also where a visitor can see the latest model luxury cars overtaking a carabao sled or modern skyscrapers within driving distance of primordial volcanos. The Visayas is famous for its charm, a trait shared by many other southern regions in the world, but here seems to run deeper among a people who are intrinsically connected to their sun soaked island home. The Visayas is also famous as a seat of history, being one of the earliest landfalls of western voyagers. It has also gained a reputation as being a cradle of the nation's future, if the unprecedented economic growth of Cebu City continues. Mindanao is our offering to the Guinness Book of Records with the world's largest clam, the world's largest Eagle, the nation's highest peak and the world's largest city. Mindanao is also home to the Philippines' Muslim population. With a land mass of 300, 780 square kilometers, the Philippines is considered a medium-sized nation, about two- thirds the size of its first colonizer, Spain, and a little larger than the British Isles. Manila is only one hour and 40 minutes from Hong Kong by jet; Sydney only 7 1/2 hours away. Flights to Europe take 17 hours and to the American west coast 15 hours. The Philippines has many things to offer the visitor: a mixture of the old and the new, a diversity of art and culture and a warm, friendly people. Blessed by nature, the Philippines has something to offer every sportsman too . . . extraordinary dive sites, forests to roam, mountains to climb, caves to explore. Top History Situated on the crossroads of Asia, on the eastern rim of the China Sea, the Philippines has hosted voyagers, migrants and traders since the dawn of history. That it was the center of lively Asian trade route that stretched all the way to China and Japan can be seen from the relics these early visitors left behind. Among our archaeological treasures is a Neolithic spirit boat typical of early Southeast Asian culture. The West discovered the Philippines when Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese explorer who sailed for Spain, landed in Cebu in 1521. However, colonization didn't actually begin until 1565, when Miguel Lopez de Legazpi established a Spanish base in the town of Manila. Because Philippine society was loosely organized, without a central government, the Spanish conquest was rapid and total. Only the Muslims in the south and some inaccessible hill tribes were able to resist Spanish influence. Along with the Spanish conquerors came a new religion, Christianity, a new language, new laws and the galleon trade. Despite several uprisings against Spain, including the Katipunan, a revolutionary movement inspired by Dr. Jose Rizal and led by Andres Bonifacio, it was the United States of America that broke the Spaniard's grip on the Philippines. Unfortunately, that began the nation's second period of colonization. Once again there was resistance, this time led by Emilio Aguinaldo; but his rag-tag army was no match for Admiral Dewey's forces. In 1901, with Aguinaldo's capture, the Americans were entrenched. The Americans brought over their educational system, their legal system and planted the seeds of their own style of government. In 1935, the Philippines became an American commonwealth country with Manuel Luis Quezon as president. The status quo ended with the Japanese Occupation; and it wasn't until 1946, after the end of the Pacific war, that the Philippines finally regained true independence as the Republic of the Philippines under the presidency of Manuel Roxas. Still one of the strongest democracies in Asia, the current president is Joseph Ejercito Estrada. Top The People Halo-halo is a Filipino word that means mixture. While it describes a popular dessert, it could also describe the Filipinos. They look like Asians, write and speak English like Americans, worship like Spaniards, and have an outlook that is international. Like the Southern Chinese, the Thai, Malay, Indonesian and Burmese, the modern-day Filipino traces his remotest genetic lines back to an Australoid and Mongoloid stock. You will also find a touch of Caucasian, Chinese, Indian and Arabic in their gene pool as well. But to truly understand the Filipino, you have to look at the land. The historic isolation between islands and the topographic isolation on each island, become the primary influence governing regional traits and societal behavior. This diversity makes Filipinos all the more interesting. However, what is apparent isn't how different they are from each other, but rather how alike they are. Brought together by a common history, and looking forward to a common future, it is not surprising to find a sharing of certain traits. Their warmth, graciousness and hospitalityall part of the Filipino psychewill make your stay a delight. Top Tips for First-time Philippine Travelers Generally speaking, it is important to travel light. Bring only what's necessary. Avoid the extra baggage. You don't want to pay exorbitant fees for your luggage service. As in any foreign place, be careful with pickpockets. Some might act as a helpful stanger, but they're out to get something from you! It's good to be cautious at all times. Whenever going outdoors, being in a group is recommended. If you're bringing kids with you, make sure to bring all the things they would need, like medicine, bottles of potable water (although many bottled water is available, it is always recommended to bring one), and one of your kids' favorite toys for their own receration. Top Visas If you are coming from America, Asia or Europe with a valid passport, and either a return ticket or a ticket to another destination outside the Philippines you may enter without a formal visa and stay for 21 days. If you wish to stay longer you must obtain a Visa Extension either before your trip from a Philippine Consulate or Embassy. Or, once here, you may obtain it from the Bureau of Immigration. Customs Upon Arriving: Visitors are allowed to bring in duty free personal belongings, two cartons of cigarettes or two tins of pipe tobacco and up to one liter of alcohol. Balikbayans have separate rules and should check with the Embassy or Consulate in their home city. You may bring in unlimited amount of foreign currency. Upon Leaving: Any antiques you may have acquired during your stay must be accompanied by a certificate from the National Museum. You may also not take more than PhP5,000.00 (five thousand Philippine pesos) out of the country. Currency The currency in the Philippines is the Peso (PhP) and the Centavo. 100 centavos = P1. Coin denominations are: 1, 5, 10, and 25 centavos, P1, and P5. Bill denominations are : 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1, 000 pesos. Foreign currency may be exchanged at your hotel, and in most of the large department stores, banks and authorized money changing shops. Exchanging money anywhere else is illegal and the laws are strictly enforced. Most large stores, restaurants , hotels and resorts accept major credit cards including American Express , Visas and MasterCard. Traveller' s checks preferably American Express are accepted at hotels and large department stores. Personal checks drawn on foreign banks are generally not accepted. Top Weather The Philippines is tropical with just two seasons--hot and dry from November to June, and rainy from July to October. Filipinos will tell you that it is cool from December through February and they themselves will wear jackets. Clothing People in the Philippines dress for the weather (HOT!) Casual attire during the day for women are light blouses and shorts. For men collared T- shirts worn over slacks. In the evening skirts are substituted for shorts and the T-shirts are tucked in. For Men Only: If you expect to have to attend any occasion which would usually require a jacket and a tie (which is torture in this weather) there is a wonderful substitute. Go immediately to a department store and buy a barong tagalog. It is an embroidered shirt that is considered a formal dress. It will cost more or less PhP1,000.00, but it is worth every centavo. Utilities Electricity is 220 volts a/c. Many of the major tourist hotels also have 110 volt a/c outlets. Water supply in Metro Manila and in all the other major cities are considered potable. Bottled purified water, spring water or mineral water is often supplied by hotels and resorts, and sold in all grocery stores. Telephone service is modern and you can direct dial anywhere in the world. Public phones are plentiful. Public phones require a minimum of two one-peso coins for a local call. Some Important Telephone Numbers: (24-Hour Hotline) Police & Fire: 757 or 116 Emergency No.: 501- 650 or 501- 728 Directory Assistance: 114 National Operator: 109 International Operator: 108 For other emergency numbers, please refer to Directory . NOTE: It is advisable to always have the telephone number and the address of your embassy or consulate with you. Top Newspapers & Other Media The newspapers in the Philippines have been called the freest in the world, as you will see for yourself, with more than 24 different morning papers to choose from, most of them in English. There is also a wide selection of magazines printed in English including Time, Newsweek and Asiaweek. In Metro Manila you can buy the Asian Wall Street Journal, The International Herald Tribune and USA Today. Television is "on the air" from early morning to midnight, showing American programming as well as local programming. The standard channels are 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 13, and 23. If you need more channels, most of the major hotels are with Cable TV bringing in TV programs from all over the world. There is also AM and FM radio broadcasting with the pop stations primarily on AM in Filipino and the English language programs on FM. Top Business Hours Most businesses are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays and 8:00 AM till noon Saturdays. Banks are open from 9:00 AM till 3:00 PM Mondays through Fridays. When banking in the Philippines, it is advisable to have your passport with you for identification. The post offices are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays only. Stamps for postcards are frequently available from the Concierge Desk at most major hotels. The Philippines uses ZIP codes, please include them in addressing local mail. NOTE: The Standard lunch hour is noon to 1:00 PM. Most businesses and government offices are closed. Language While there are over 100 regional languages in the Philippines, the national language is Filipino, with English as the most widely spoken second language. All business, governmental and legal transactions are conducted in English. Top Getting Around There are four modes of public transport in Metro Manila and surprisingly, they are easy to use. Buses : Both air-conditioned and regular buses travel most of the major routes in Metro Manila. On an air-con bus a short ride costs PhP 9.00, adding a few peso for every succeeding kilometer. The regular bus' minimum fare is PhP 4.00. Just tell the conductor where you are going and he will tell you how much it costs. Keep your bus receipt as it is your proof of payment. Jeepneys : Called "folk arton wheels," jeepneys ply most of Manila's secondary roads and even a few major thoroughfares. They're as much fun to ride on as they are to look at and you have to try one. Although there are regular stops, you can often just flag one down and hop on. Call out "bayad" (bah-yhad) and pay the driver. If you are too far back, pass your PhP 4.00 (minimum fare for the first 4 kilometers; 1 peso additional for every succeeding 500 meters) down. When you are ready to get off, call out "para" (pah-rah); wait till he slows down and jump. The LRT : It's a fast, cheap way to go to downtown Manila. A token can take you between Monumento (the northern end of Edsa) and Baclaran, travelling first along Rizal Avenue and then Taft Avenue. Many of the tourist maps have the route of the LRT marked. The MRT : After it's somewhat unsuccessful opening, the MRT is now enjoying a fair share of passengers plying EDSA. This is definitely the fastest mode of transport, this side of the metropolis. The MRT runs from the North Avenue Station in Quezon City up to Taft Avenue Station in Pasay City. Passengers would enjoy the traffic-less route, clean stations and coach, with a good view of Metro Manila's landscape. The only problem is that some stations have very high stairways. Although a number of elevators is operational, not all stations have one. Travel time is approximately 20 minutes end to end. Taxis : Air-conditioned taxis cost PhP25.00 on the meter and an additional PhP 2.00 is added for every succeeding 200 meters to the final cost. Non-airconditioned taxis do not ply anymore. Taxis are always lined up at the major hotels and tourist restaurants and can be hailed on the street. If you take a taxi, make sure the driver turns on the meter. If he gives you a story that it is broken, get out and take another taxi. Unless you are taking a long trip or the traffic is unusually horrible, most taxi rides should be well under P100. At least a 10% tip is expected. Top Other Modes of Transport Most of the major car rental agencies, including AVIS, Budget, and Hertz have offices in Metro Manila and carry a full line of vehicles from jeeps to limousines. All vehicles may be rented with or without a driver. If you wish to do your own driving you must have a valid foreign or international license. Inter-island transportation is provided by either airplane or ferry boat. Philippine Airlines services most of the major provincial airports. Cebu Pacific, Asian Spirit, SeaAir, Air Philippines, and Pacific Airways are smaller carriers servicing more remote tourist destinations. For information about boat schedules, check with the Department of Tourism on T.M. Kalaw Street, Manila (63-2-5267652, 5267653, 5267655). Top WEATHER CONDITIONS & GEOGRAPHY Climate: Tropical (two seasons) Dry Season: March -May (warm) 33-34 C Wet Season: June- October (monsoonal) November -February (coolest) 29-31C Coastline: 334,539 km. Terrain: Many of the islands in the Philippines are extinct volcanoes and atolls. On the larger islands, many mountains, rainforests, rich valleys and swamp regions. The Philippines still does have thermal activity consisting of active volcanoes and hot springs. Top THINGS TO KNOW Language: Filipino (based on Tagalog dialect) is the National Language. The American occupation was responsible for teaching the English Language. The Philippines is currently the third largest English speaking country in the world. Currency: Peso(PhP). Notes are issued in denominations of , PhP 10, PhP 20, PhP 50, PhP 100, PhP 500, and PhP 1000. Coins are issued for 5c, 10c, 25c, PhP 1, PhP 5. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, hotels and authorized exchanged dealers. Outside of Manila payments are preferably made in pesos. Major Travellers Cheques are widely accepted. Major Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Diners Club) can be used to pay for most goods and services. Bank Hours: Banks are open 9am-3pm Mon-Fri (except public holidays). Shop Hours: Most shops operate 10am-7.30pm daily (except public holidays). Time : Local time is GMT plus 8 hours. Business English is the language used. Sexual equality is more widespread in the Philippines than in other Asian countries. Make sure you have business cards. Top SIGHTSEEING Casa Manila: A replica mid 19th Century house, recreating the Intramuros lifestyle of upper class Filipinos at this time. Corner Real and General Lunar Streets, Intramuros, Manila. Luzon Chocolate Hills : Bohols most famous attraction: the area is named thus, because of the rich grass which covers them turns brown in summer. Carmen Town, Bohol. Visayas* Colon Street: The oldest street in the Philippines located in the heart of Cebu. Cebu. Visayas* Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery: The only underground cemetery in the Philippines; it served as a meeting place for the revolutionary leaders in Laguna. Laguna, Luzon Island Magellans Cross: The most historically-famous landmark in Cebu. Planted by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, it marks the place where the first Christian Filipinos were baptized. Cebu. Visayas* Top PARKS & WILDLIFE Katibawasan Falls: These 250-foot falls cascade down to a pool surrounded by orchids and other rich tropical flora- 4 km from Mambajao. Camiguin. Mindinao* Maquinit Hot Springs : Located on a scenic beach corner, this is the premium hot spring in the Philippines. Palawan. Luzon* Hidden Valley: A natural recluse is created within this 90-meter crater . A haven for lush jungle life, natural springs and still water pools. Accommodation available. Alaminos, Laguna. Luzon, Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife: Quezon Avenue. Quezon City. Luzon. Rizal Memorial Park: Within the lush park there are monuments, a skating rink and adventure playground. Free concerts every Sunday. Ermita, Manila. Luzon. Top MUSEUMS AND ART GALLERIES Museums & art galleries Ateneo Art Gallery Quezon City Tel: (02) 998 721 Metropolitan Museum of Manila Tel: (02) 832 3645 National Museum Manila Tel: (02) 494 450 Villa Escudero San Pablo City, Quezon City Tel: (02) 521 8698 Top VISAS AND PASSPORTS Visa and Passport No Visas are required for foreigners entering the country for a stay no longer than 21 days provided that you have valid passports and tickets to leave the Philippines. Visas are required only for stateless persons and citizens of countries with which the Philippines have no diplomatic relations. A temporary visitor's visa is required for those who are planning to stay up to 59 days. Vaccination certificates may be neccesary for long term stays. Holders of Hongkong and Taiwan passports need special permits. All visas and permits may be obtained from Philippine embassies and consulates. Duty Free Items: Two 1-litre bottles of alchohol, and two cartons of cigarettes are allowed. Air Travel to the Country : Ninoy Aquino International Airport (7 km from city centre) Ninoy Aquino Avenue Manila, Philippines: Mactan International Airport Cebu, Philippines: (Most major airlines have flights to the country). Top FURTHER INFORMATION Department of Tourism: T.M. Kalaw Street Rizal Park Metro Manila P.O. Box 3451 Tel: (02)523-8411 Fax: (02) 521 7374 Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporatiom: 4th Floor, Suites 10-17 Legasi Towers 300 Roxas Boulevard Metro Manila Tel: (02) 525-93-18-27 Fax: (02) 521-61-65/ 525-33-14 Top
Japan travel Travel Go
Packing tips for Japan - Japan travel You are here: About > Travel > Japan for Visitors > Japanese Penpal / Chat > Packing tips for Japan - Japan travel Travel Go Japan Essentials Clickable Map of Japan Japan Pictures Japan Travel Tips Japanese Geisha Japan 101 - Fact about Japan Articles & Resources Japan Maps Picture of Japan / Web cams Best of Japan / Attractions Hotels/Accommodations Tokyo / Cities / Regions Japanese Translators Japanese Culture Etiquette / Living in Japan Japan Weather / Geography Japan History / Samurai Japanese Penpal / Chat Plan Your Trip to Japan Air Travel / Train Travel Restaurants / Japanese Food Japanese Gift / Japan Books Buyer's Guide Before You Buy Top Picks Japanese Gifts Product Reviews Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Japan for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search Japan for Visitors Stay up to date! Email to a friend Print this page Suggested Reading When to Go to Japan Where to Go in Japan Japan Photo Gallery Recent Discussions Japanese Cooking School in Tokyo Need help with gift new U.S. business Most Popular New Year Cards Japanese Geisha Christmas in Japan Japanese Tattoos Free Japanese postcards - Japanese new year cards - japan fr... What's Hot Japan Postcard - Japanese free email postcards - New Year's ... Japan Map - Nagano Prefecture Map - Map of Japan Universal Studios Japan Odaiba Photos Pictures of Japan - mount fuji picture - mt. fuji Photo Related Topics Japanese Cuisine Japanese Language Asia for Visitors Anime PlayStation Games Packing for Japan From Shizuko Mishima , Your Guide to Japan for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Pcking Tips You might be wondering what to bring for your trip to Japan. I will give you some packing tips and a list of items. Tip 1: Money Many Japanese stores don't accept credit cards and traveler's checks, especially in small cities. I recommend bringing traveler's checks to Japan and exchanging them to yen in a bank. Be sure to carry Japanese yen in cash while you are in Japan. It's usually safe to carry cash in Japan. Be careful of pickpockets if you are taking a crowded train or going to an event where you can expect a large crowd. It's still convenient to bring a major credit card, such as MasterCard or Visa. You can use them when you shop at major department stores, hotels, and restaurants. Tip 2: Appliances The electricity in Japan is 100 volts, and there are two cycles (50/60). In Tokyo and areas northeast of Tokyo, the electricity is 50 cycles. In the southwest Japan, it's 60 cycles. Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya are in the southwest side. If you need to bring any appliances from your country, make sure to bring a converter or plug. American appliances can be used in Japan without a converter although they will have less power. If your appliances are three-pronged, you need a plug since Japanese appliances are two-pronged. You can buy converters and plugs in the airports or travel equipment stores in Japan. But since it could be a hassle for you to find a store that sells the converters, it's better to purchase them in your own country. It shouldn't take much space in your luggage. If you want to email your family or friends from Japan, you might want to take your laptop. You can connect to the Internet from major hotels and public phones although Internet access can be expensive in Japan. Tip 3: Luggage Compared with westerners, who often travel with large suitcases, it's not common for Japanese people to travel with a large suitcase around the country. Consequently, there isn't usually a wide space to store large luggage in trains, and the coin lockers aren't large enough to hold them either. I recommend keeping your luggage small when you travel around Japan. You might want to bring several small bags so that you don't have to carry a large suitcase. Tip 4: Shoes Since it's a Japanese custom to take off your shoes indoors, you might have to take off your shoes often in Japan. I recommend bringing a pair of shoes that you can slip off and on easily. Make sure to bring, and wear, a nice pair of socks or pantyhose to avoid any embarrassment when you take off your shoes. Tip 5: Handkerchief and Pocket tissue It's important to carry a handkerchief in Japan. Many restrooms in Japan don't have paper towels. Be sure to bring a handkerchief in your pocket to dry your hands! Also, pocket tissues are good to carry, since they are often needed while traveling. Tip 6: Gifts While you are in Japan, you might be visiting a Japanese home. If you are wondering what to bring for gifts, former travelers to Japan share good ideas in the forum. Check List: Passport and Visa (If you are staying in Japan more than 90days) Airplane Ticket Japan Railpass purchasing order Traveler's check Japanese yen in cash if possible Travel Insurance Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) Photocopy of all these documents Small suitcase or extra bags Camera (film is cheap in Japan) Umbrella Small calculator Dictionary (Japanese Conversation book) / Guidebook Sewing set Walking shoes First Aid Kit / Prescription / OTC Medicine Alarm clock Glasses and Contact lenses Jackets / Night wear / Socks / Underwear Shaver (cordless would be good) Laptop if you need Plastic bags (can be trash bags) Pen / Memo note Cosmetics and your amenities Packing Tips from Japan for Visitors Forum Money Exchange in Japan Using Internet in Japan Baggage on Shinkansen Suggestions for Gifts More Articles about Japan / Japan Photo Gallery 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 Japan Postcard - Japanese free email postcards - New Year's ... Japan Map - Nagano Prefecture Map - Map of Japan Universal Studios Japan Odaiba Photos Pictures of Japan - mount fuji picture - mt. fuji Photo
France Travel
France tour | Guided and Self-guided France tours | France tourism You are here: Home Europe France Tour Trip Listing Service Home Categories Active Adventure Affinity Family History & Culture Hobby Nature & Wildlife Romance Soft Adventure Spiritual Sports Destination Africa Asia Australia Caribbean Central America Europe Middle East North America Oceania South America Popular Categories Arts & Crafts Bicycle Tours Boating & Sailing Culture & History Eco & Wildlife Fishing & Hunting Golf & Spa Gourmet & Cooking Schools Hiking & Trekking Language Schools Naturist Paddling & Rafting Railway Trips Scuba Diving Maps WeekendGetaways Backroad CityEscape UniqueStays Castle Hotel Eco Lodge Outdoors Fishing Lodge Hunting Lodge Guest Ranch Resorts Spa Diving Golf Naturist France Tour Whether you are looking for a self-guided France tour or want to join a guided tour, you will likely find one here at InfoHub.com. Below you'll find some of the best guided and self-guided France tours available. Many of these France tour packages feature unique France tourism opportunities that you are not likely to find anywhere else. Click on the tour name to see the tour details. You can contact the tour operator to ask questions, order a free brocure, or inquire about availability with no obligations to purchase. 1 LOIRE VALLEY Small Group Cultural Tour ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Activity Driven, Small Group Tour, Cooking Class, Wine & Cheese Tasting, Chambord, Blois, Amboise, Loches, Chenonceau! Destination: France Activity: Cooking School Cultural Expeditions Castles/Palaces 2 Small Group Active Provence Tour ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Activity driven, Small group Tour, Provence Markets, Culinary class, Cassis, the Calanques, Wine & Cheese tasting, Luxury Hotel!! Destination: France Activity: Gourmet/Gastronomy Cooking School Cultural Expeditions 3 Bordeaux Gourmet, Wine Walking Tour ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Activity driven, Small group Tour, 1st and 2nd growth estates, 2 Culinary classes, Wine & Cheese tasting, bread baking!! Destination: France Activity: Walking Tours Winery Tours Cooking School 4 7-day LOIRE VALLEY Small group Tour ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Activity driven, Small group Tour, Castles, Culinary class, Wine & Cheese tasting, Amboise, Blois, Chenonceau, Chambord, Loches and more!! Destination: France Activity: Cooking School Cultural Expeditions Castles/Palaces 5 Mont Blanc ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Enjoy the glaciers, cable cars & pine forests of France, Italy, Switzerland and The Alps on a fabulous 12 days walking tour. Priced from $1020 pp. Destination: France Switzerland Italy Activity: Hiking Glacier Tours Mountain/Rock Climb 6 2005 Tour de France Spectator Tour ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: ONLY 2 spaces left, July 15-20, reserve your place today! Destination: France Activity: Sports Tours Gourmet/Gastronomy Cultural Expeditions 7 Mary Magdalene, Cathars, Templars ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: The DaVinci Code. Experience The Land of the Four Heresies. Mary Magdalene, Black Madonna, Holy Grail, Cathars, Templars and Troubadours. Destination: France Activity: Church Tours Pilgrimage/Mythology Religion/Spirituality 8 Provence Cycling ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Self-guided Cycling in Northern Provence. 8 days/7 nights. Shorter and longer options available. Starting at Cdn$1375/US$1195. Destination: France Activity: Bicycle Touring 9 Hiking the French/Spanish Pyrenees Mountains ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Fully guided 7d/7n hikes of the French/Spanish Pyrenees to learn about the culture, language, ecology and history: 2006 dates: $995.00 Destination: France Activity: Hiking Cultural Expeditions Nature Trips 10 Hiking and Biking in Brittany France ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Fully guided 7d/7n adventures in Brittany France to experience the Megaliths, nature and culture of this unique place: 2006 dates: $895.00 Destination: France Activity: Hiking Cultural Expeditions Nature Trips 11 Cooking with SE France Wild Edible Plants ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Stay in a Provence Alps Mountain home in the SE of France and learn how to collect & cook French cuisine with the wild edible plants of France. Destination: France Activity: Cooking School Walking Tours Cultural Expeditions 12 Sea kayak and gourmet cuisine in France ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: 'Sea kayak in France', 7 days trip, includes luxury inns, gourmet cuisine and cultural discovery, for only $1895-Single supplement $350 Destination: France Activity: Canoeing/Kayaking Sea Kayak Cultural Expeditions 13 THE CATALAN SHORE ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: 6 NIGHTS SELF-GUIDED WALKING HOLIDAY ON MEDITERRANEAN COAST WITH HALF BOARD, LUGGAGE TRANSFERS, MAPS/NOTES, LOCAL BACK-UP, FROM 425/$750 PP Destination: Spain France Activity: Walking Tours Hiking Trekking 14 Swiss alpine Trails ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Guided walking in the French & Swiss Alps includes visits to Lavey vineyards, Chamonix and the Grand Balcon. Land only 365plus Local Payment 80euros Destination: Switzerland France Activity: Walking Tours Winery Tours 15 PILGRIM ROUTE OF ST. JAMES ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA, THE PILGRIM ROUTE. FROM 6 NIGHTS SELF-GUIDED WALKING HOLIDAY. FROM 395/$700 PP. Destination: France Spain Activity: Pilgrimage/Mythology Hiking Trekking 16 THE VINEYARDS & VILLAGES OF BURGUNDY ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: SELF-GUIDED WALKING HOLIDAY IN BURGUNDY 7 NIGHTS HALF BOARD INCLUDING THE BEAUTIFUL, HISTORIC TOWN OF CLUNY 450/$790 PP Destination: France Activity: Hiking Walking Tours Trekking 17 The Tastes of Bordeaux Wine Tour ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: The Tastes of Bordeaux Wine Tour: 6 day luxury wine tour with tastings. Visit and taste Grand Crus. Stay at a Chateau, gourmet dining and fun: $2950 Destination: France Activity: Winery Tours Gourmet/Gastronomy Cooking School 18 Truffle, Foie Gras -- Winter in Provence ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Truffles, Wine, Foie Gras & Duck Confit - A Winter's Tale in Provence & Languedoc. 5days/5nights. Accom. included. 1075E ($1300) Destination: France Activity: Cooking School Cultural Expeditions Gourmet/Gastronomy 19 A Journey of the Senses ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: A Journey of the Senses in Provence, Art, Writing & Cooking: 6 nights' accom. included. $2280 early bird by Feb 20th Destination: France Activity: Artists Workshops Gourmet/Gastronomy Writing Workshops 20 Teen Trip to Provence ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: Teen Tour to Provence, 8 days, cooking, exploring, learning, with experienced culinary instructors & guides Destination: France Activity: Archeology/History Canoeing/Kayaking Gourmet/Gastronomy 21 Cooking and French Immersion in Provence ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: In lovely Arles, daily French classes, 4 cooking classes, excursions, demi-pension (b&l, or b&d) accom. in b&b inclu 13 nights. $2800 Destination: France Activity: Cultural Expeditions Language Study Gourmet/Gastronomy 22 HIKING THE BRITTANY COAST ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: SELF-GUIDED WALKING HOLIDAY ALONG THE COAST OF BEAUTIFUL BRITTANY 7 NIGHTS HALF BOARD WITH LUGGAGE TRANSPORTATION FROM 425/$735 PP Destination: France Activity: Hiking Walking Tours Trekking 23 THE DORDOGNE ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: THE DORDOGNE - A SELF GUIDED WALKING HOLIDAY IN THIS BEAUTIFUL AREA OF FRANCE 6 NIGHTS HALF BOARD 395/$725 PP Destination: France Activity: Hiking Trekking Walking Tours 24 TARN & JONTE GORGES ( click to view details ) Hot Trip Highlight: TARN & JONTE GORGES, A 6 NIGHT SELF-GUIDED WALKING HOLIDAY IN SOUTHWEST FRANCE. HALF BOARD, LUGGAGE TRANSPORTED 395/$725 PER PERSON Destination: France Activity: Hiking Trekking Walking Tours 25 Nature of Provence ( click to view details ) Tour package Highlight: Photograph galloping white horses of Camargue, cherry blossoms in hill villages, 1000's of flamingos, meet locals at festivals of Provence, Smallest groups, perfect time of year with pro guide. Season: April - April Destination: France Activity: Photography Nature Trips Wildlife Viewing Duration: 9 days Price: USD 2533 and above Free brochure: click to order [ 1 ] | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | next page Related links: Castle hotel page for France Naturist resort page for France Golf resort page for France Map page for France Company | Supplier program | Travel agent program | Trip List Service | Affiliate Program | Submit Links | Contact Archive Site map Destination Guide InfoHub
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