Russia Travel

Guide To Russia - Travel Agencies Home Essential Facts Embassies - Foreign in Moscow - Russian Abroad Health Holidays Internet Language Mail Measurements Media Money Telephones Time Visas Weather Getting to Russia Arriving in Moscow - By Plane - By Train Arriving in St. Petersburg Airlines Train Tickets Other Transport While You're Here Accommodation - In Moscow - In Moscow - Budget - In St. Petersburg Getting Around - Russia - Moscow - St. Petersburg What to See - In Moscow - Around Moscow - Around Russia Study in Russia Maps Guide Books Travel Agencies Contact Us Travel Agencies Adentina Tour Ulitsa Varvarka, 14, Office 308 Moscow Tel: (7 095) 298-4737 / 298-3863 Fax: (7 095) 298-3801 adentina@mtu-net.ru AeroClub 6/3 Platovsakaya Ul. Moscow Tel: (7 095) 744 1111 Fax: (7 095) 744 1110 www.aeroclub.ru info@aeroclub.ru AerosTravel 1 Kudrinskaya Ploshchad Moscow Tel: (7 095) 252 2500 Fax: (7 095) 252 4550 www.aeros.ru aeros@aeros.ru Aerotour 80 Leningradskoye Shosse Moscow Tel: (7 095) 105 3040/60 Fax: (7 095) 457-8337 Artilleriyskaya street,1 Business Center "Europe House", office 617 St. Petersburg Tel: (812) 279 3605 Fax: (812) 118 8041 www.aerotour.ru aerotour@aerotour.ru Alpindustria - Baikal Irkutsk Tel: (3 952) 240084 ai-baikal@irtx.com American Express Travel Services 33 Usacheva Ul., bld. 1 Moscow Tel: (7 095) 933 8447/8400 Fax: (7 095) 933 8401 www.americanexpress.ru btsales@amex.ru Andrew's Travel House 18, bld. 2, Volkhonka Ul Moscow Tel: (7 095) 916 9898 Fax: (7 095) 916 9828 www.ath.ru inquiries@ath.ru Astravel Novoslobodskaya Ul., 9/31 Moscow Tel: (7 095) 926 8700,781 2700 Fax: (7 095) 956 3549,973 9400 astravel.rosnet.ru webmaster@astravel.ru Avantix.ru 11 Shchipok Ul. Moscow Tel: (7 095) 787-7200 Fax: (7 095) 87-7273 www.avantix.ru avantix@avantix.ru BTIRussia 5 Petrovsky Pereulok, Building 7 Moscow Tel: (7 095) 931-9550. Carlson Wagonlit Travel 5 Smolenskaya Ul. Moscow Tel: (7 095) 725 7888 Fax: (7 095) 725 7887 www.carlsonwagonlittravel.com Capital Tour Hotel Cosmos, Business Centre, 7th floor Prospect Mira, 150 Moscow Phone: +7 095 980 5020 Fax: +7 095 980 5010 corporate@capital-tour.ru www.capital-tour.ru/clients/ Concor Tours Svetnoy bulvar,3, office 17 Moscow Tel: (7 095) 921 7894, 921 7173, 771 0314 Fax: (7 095) 923 4046 www.concortour.ru info@concortour.ru Continent Express 20/1 Ul. Petrovka Moscow Tel: (7 095) 926-1586 Fax: (7 095) 926 1237 operations@continent.ru Demlink Travel Leningradsky Prospekt 8, Office 4202 Moscow Tel: (7 095) 747 3177 Fax: (7 095) 937 9074 www.demlinktravel.com info@demlink.ru Detur 19 Posledny Pereulok Moscow Tel: (7 095) 721 1600 Fax: (7 095) 721 1605 www.detur.ru detur@redline.ru DC Travel club 17 Bolshaya Androniyevskaya Ul. Moscow Tel: (7 095) 912 0752 Fax: (7 095) 745 8404 www.diners.ru travel@diners.ru Ecotourism Development Fund "Dersu Uzala" 14/1 Tokmakov Pereulok Moscow Tel: (7 095) 230 8471 Fax: (7 095) 959 2537 www.ecotours.ru dersu@orc.ru Eurolloyd 18/7 Donskaya Ul. Moscow Tel: (7 095) 952 1008, 236 4116 www.eurolloyd.com Eurotourtrans 1 Leninsky Prospekt Moscow Tel: (7 095) 238 4639, 238 7082 Fax: (7 095) 238 7052 www.ett.ru ett@ett.ru Express Line 64 Zemlyannoy Val Moscow Tel: (7 095) 720 4848, 967 4848 Fax: (7 095) 720 4820 www.exline.ru info@exline.ru Individual Adventure Tourism Simferopol, Ukraine Tel: 8( 06554) 71318,-71136, +38(067)7657552 www.meganom.com marat@meganom.com Infinity Travel 13 Komsomolsky Prospekt Moscow Tel: (7 095) 234-6555 Fax: (7 095) 234-6556 www.infinity.ru info@infinity.ru Intelservice Center 29 Leninsky Prospekt Moscow Tel: (7 095) 956 4422 Fax: (7 095) 956 2244 info@intelservice.ru Intourist 13/1 Milyutinsky Pereulok Moscow Tel: (7 095) 956 8844 Fax: (7 095) 956 4202 13 Mokhovaya Ul. Tel: (7 095) 292-2260/1278/2379 150 Prospekt Mira Tel: (7 095) 215 6780, 217 0086 Fax: (7 095) 215 6780 info@intourist.ru Primorsky Agency of Aviation Companies 17 Posijetskaya Ul. Vladivostok Tel/Fax : (7 4232) 407 700 www.airagency.ru tour@airagency.ru Russian Holiday Ltd. 78 Nevsky Prospekt Saint Petersburg Tel: (7 812) 327 3023 www.rusholiday.com Star Travel Student Travel Agency Ul. Baltiskaya. Bld.9 Moscow Tel: (7 095) 797 9555 Fax: (7 095) 797 9554 www.startravel.ru help@startravel.ru Svezhy Veter Travel Agency 154 Pushkinskaya St. Izhevsk, Russia Tel: (7 3412) 512 500 Fax: (7 3412) 752 268 www.intelservice.ru info@intelservice.ru Uniworld Cruises Tel: 1 800 360 9550 www.uniworldcruises.com Tourism Committees Anapa City Administration Tourism Committee Anapa Tel: (8 1633) 56 078 anapa-adm@au.ru Russian Association of Tourist Agencies (RATA) 11 Stoleshnikov Per. Office 426 Moscow Tel: (7 095) 292-2464 Fax: (7 095) 292 2759 www.rata.ru rata@alean.ru RATA Golden Ring Regional Department 3 Sovietskaya Sq. Yaroslavl Tel: (8 052) 72 83 61 Fax: (8 052) 30 41 35 koptev@adm.yar.ru RATA Northwest Regional Department 16 Pushkinskaya Ul., Office 3 St. Petersburg Tel: (812) 325 1144 Fax: (812) 164 4777 nw@rata.spb.ru RATA Buryatia Regional Department Ulan Ude Tel: (3012) 213 471 tourism@eastsib.ru RATA Crimean Regional Department Simferopol, Ukraine Tel: (0652) 525 307 newcr@cris.crimea.ua Travel Resources Travel Insurance Travel Insurance Travel Hotel Jardin de l'Odeon paris Discounted Hotels in Cyprus Asia Hotels Discount Your Link Here A Blast from the Past of Our Classic Travel Stories Battle of the Beach Behemoths (Aug. 12, 2000) On the Waterfront in Old Baku (Oct. 21, 2000) Kievan Glory (Sept. 2, 2000) Caviar, Bears and Typhoons in Kamchatka (Oct. 1, 1999) Exploring Kamchatka -- For a Price (July 29, 2000)

Switzerland Travel

Switzerland, Switzerland Travel Advice, Ski Switzerland, Skiing in Switzerland, Swiss Ski Resorts, Swiss, Switzerland Information,Jungfrau, Verbier, Saas Fee and more Swiss Skiing, Ski Europe, Poll Thai Resorts, Poll France Resorts, free travel newsletter Weather Forecast Search Activelifestyle Select from list Partner hotels Brochures on-line Alpine routes Alpine ski maps EU golf maps TH golf maps UK Ski tours Golf video Ski video FREE Newsletter Snow Sports Gear SkiGear SkiJackets SnowboardBoots Information for Travel in Switzerland Zermatt.com Saas Fee Château d'Oex Les Diablerets Leysin Villars Engelberg Luzern Verbier Switzerland.com Andermatt Crans-Montana Veysonnaz Adelboden Gstaad - Saanenland Davos St. Moritz Jungfrau Region.com Grindelwald Interlaken Lauterbrunnen Mürren Wengen Ski Switzerland, Europe's spotless land of lakes and mountains. If skiing in Europe is your dream or if you do it frequently, skiing in Switzerland is a wise destination choice. World class ski resorts are all over Switzerland. World class ski lifts and mountain transportation will safely and comfortably get you into ski country, and some of the best hotels and restaurants in Europe will see to your comfort in Switzerland. Wining and dining in Switzerland are excellent activities and the Swiss kitchen, although underrated is certainly one of the best. Select from the resorts featured here-we will be adding more soon. About Activelifestyle | Contact European Reservations Dolonne, Courmayeur , family run hotel, bed/ buffet breakfast, great restaurant, 47 Euro,p/n,up Entreves, Courmayeur charming hotel, family friendly, 4 nights double half board from 260 p/n Get featured here. Pay 10% commission or .50cents per click through. Classified Ads Property Paradise? Invest for income or to live in Thailand. Paradise is yours. thailandpropertytimes.com Got something to say? Say it to a global audience. Free. www.bloggerup.com Luxury Holiday Word Europe, America, Asia, Canada, Yachting luxury www.luxuryski.com Advertise here pay per result Pay per click, per request or per month, change when you want, full reporting actone@activelifestyle.com Hotels in central Courmayeur Request here for great prices, great locations, and fast, friendly service Link to ME form with hotel list Speak Italian? Courmayeur brochure in Italian with great page turning feature. No plug-in needed. www.brochures-on-line.com The Activelifestyle Travel Network. Focused travel targeting at its best = perfect results for buyer and seller. Austria ski/resorts Swiss/ski/resorts Italy/ski/resorts France/ski/holidays Last Minute skiaustria.com stantonaustria.com austrianarlberg.com lechaustria.com stubaiaustria.com tirolaustria.com holidaysaustria.com skiswitzerland.com zermatt.com jungfrauregion.com verbierswitzerland.com zermattswitzerland.com holidaysswitzerland.com skiitaly.com aostaitaly.com courmayeur.com dolomitesitaly.com livignoitaly.com holidaysitaly.com skifrance.com holidayfrancais.com dive-lastminute.com golf-lastminute.com holidays-lastminute.com ski-lastminute.com Asia/activities/dest Asia/activities/dest Holidays Europe Luxury Luxury travelthailand.com bangkokthailand.com pattayathailand.com phuketthailand.com thailandgolfmaps.com asiandiveholidays.com asianmp3.com mp3thailand.com thailandhealthcaretimes.com thailandpropertytimes.com holidayseurope.com holidaysineurope.com europeanreservations.com croatiancoastholidays.com sloveniancoast.com luxuryalpinehotels.com luxuryasianhotels.com luxuryasianresorts.com luxurygolfdestinations.com luxuryyachtholidays.com luxuryhotelsamerica.com luxuryhotelscanada.com luxuryislandresorts.com luxuryhotelsbangkok.com luxuryski.com Best Price Best Price Best Price Alpine Sun Special travel bestpriceeurope.com bestpriceaustria.com bestpriceitaly.com bestpriceswitzerland.com bestpricefrance.com bestpricethailand.com bestpricezermatt.com bestpricecourmayeur.com bestpriceskiing.com bestpricegolfing.com bestpricetouring.com bestpriceverbier.com bestpriceairlinetickets.com bestpriceairtickets.com bestpricetravelnetwork.com alpineholidays.com alpinesecrets.com alpinesummer.com lakesmountainseurope.com hotelsinthealps.com alpinegolf.com alpineskimaps.com activelifestylewoman.com euroski-on-line.com businesstraveltoday.com bookhotelsdirect.com activelifestyle.com activelifestylemall.com gullibletraveler.com Available Accommodation Available Accommodation global apartments global apartments availableroomsthailand.com availableroomszermatt.com availableroomsitaly.com availableroomsfrance.com availableroomsaustria.com availableroomsswitzerland.com availableaccommodationitaly.com zermattaccommodation.com zermattapartmantregister.com alpineapartmentregister.com apartmentaustria.com apartmentsinthealps.com apartmentslivigno.com apartmentsswitzerland.com apartmentsverbier.com lakesmountainsapartments.com livignoapartments.com matterhornapartments.com privatealpinehomes.com verbierapartments.com alpineholidayhomes.com Applications Applications Airports Casinos/gambling Casinos/gambling ManagEasy.com easyairticket.com easyadtracker.com bloggerup.com brochures-on-line.com europeanevents.com skihear.com airports-on-line.com airporthotelsandservices.com skiersairports.com casinoisslovenia.com casinoseurope.com gamblingaustria.com gamblingslovenia.com webgamblingeurope.com alpinegamblingcasinos.com alpinegamblingguide.com

Mexico Travel Guide pages!

Mexico Travel Guide - Travel Tips Wednesday Dec 28th, 2005 Mexico Central Time Just like traveling to other parts of the world, there are some general concepts we suggest you think about while packing your luggage. Follow these suggestions so your visit to Mexico will be a success. Entry Requirements When To Go Getting Around Weather Considerations What To Bring Health Tips Money Exchange & Credit Tips For Seniors Entry Requirements Enter in Mexico Three items are needed to enter Mexico: A Photo I.D. (such as a Driver's License or a passport, starting at age 18 and above) A Tourist Card or F.M.N. A Valid Proof Of Citizenship • Tourist Card This two part document is your "permission" from the Mexican government to visit Mexico . It is available free of charge, although sometimes difficult to obtain in large quantities. The airlines always have an ample supply upon check-in. Or, if all else fails, you can obtain one in Mexican Immigration upon arrival. Here are a few words of advice about tourist cards: Do not lose or deface the bottom portion returned to you after the immigration inspection. It must be returned to Mexican Immigration upon departure. TIP: Write down your tourist card number and keep it with your travel documents. If the card is lost, having the number will help greatly. Keep your tourist card and travel documents in a secure place. Do not carry them with you everywhere you go, unless traveling extensively from your point of arrival. You can ask to have your card validated for more time (up to 180 days) than you'll actually need. • Proof of Citizenship Note: information regarding entry requirements is subject to change without notice, and should be reconfirmed with the airline being used for international travel. U.S. Citizens may use one of the following for entry into Mexico: Valid Passport: This is the most recommended document - secure and convenient. Certified Birth Certificate: (hospital certificate is not acceptable). A birth certificate must include your given name and surname, date and place of birth, date the birth record was filed, and seal or other certification of the official custodian of such records (usually the Department of Health Services in the city where you were born). Brides will have an easier time if tickets are issued in their maiden name to match their documents. For U.S. airport security purposes the name on the driver's license and the name on the ticket must match. Women traveling with tickets in their married name whose driver's license (or state issued ID) is in their married name, but who are using a birth certificate as proof of citizenship will be fine as long as the first name and date of birth on their driver's license and their birth certificate match. Natural U.S. Citizens born outside the United States may use a Certificate of Citizenship, a Report of Birth Abroad, a Consular Report of Birth (Form FS-240) or Certification of Birth (Form DS-1350 or FS-545). U.S. Naturalization: If you claim citizenship through naturalization you may use your Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship or laminated Naturalization card. Note: Some airlines/charter companies may still accept the Notarized Affidavit of Citizenship or possibly a Voters Registration Card. Canadian versions of the above documents are acceptable; notarized affidavits must be executed in Canada . The "Canadian Identification Card" is an acceptable proof of citizenship document as well. Mexican Citizens Here the rules are a little more lenient, although Mexican nationals must have some official document proving Mexican birth. For one way travel any one of the following is accepted: Passport: may be expired Birth Certificate (Acta de Nacimiento) Consular registration form (Matrícula Consular) Military Service Card (Cartilla Militar) Voter's Registration Card (Cédula de Empadronamiento) For round trip travel Mexican nationals must have all three of the following: Valid Passport or valid Matrícula Consular Alien Registration Card or U.S. visa A Military Service Card if traveler is 18 years of age or older. If none of the above are available, the nearest Mexican Consulate will issue a "presunción de nacionalidad." Traveler must provide two passport size pictures to obtain the document. Remember, alien residents must have proof of U.S. residency to return to the States. Other Nationalities Most foreign citizens traveling to Mexico from the U.S. need a valid passport and U.S. "Alien Registration" card only. Contact the airlines serving Mexico or the Mexican Consulate for more details or specific situations. For Student Visas contact the Mexican Consulate in your area. Minors Any person under 18 years of age is considered a minor for travel purposes. Very strict regulations govern international travel by minors into Mexico . Every minor must have a tourist card, proof of citizenship and sometimes other documents listed below. Minors traveling with both legal parents or guardians: nothing else is needed. Minors traveling unaccompanied or with anyone other than their legal parents or guardians: they must obtain an original notarized letter of permission signed by both parents. Minors traveling with only one parent: must have notarized written permission from the other parent. (Airlines will also require the name, address and phone of the person meeting the unaccompanied minor upon arrival in Mexico .) In the case of deceased or divorced parents: legal proof must be carried to accept just one signature on the letter. This proof (death certificate, proof of sole custody etc.) can also be shown to a notary who can then notarize an Affidavit of Sole Custody form. EXCEPTION: Mexican children often have a stamp on their passports that reads, "El titular del presente pasaporte viaja de conformidad con El Articulo 421 del Codigo Civil Vigente." This allows the child to travel with only one parent and without a notarized statement. • Entering Mexico Your first stop is at Mexican Immigration (Migración) where proof of citizenship is inspected, and tourist cards are validated. DON'T LOSE YOUR TOURIST CARD! Next stop is at Customs (Aduana). Mexico has instituted a European-style customs inspection system, with a twist. Here's the way it works: Visitors complete a customs declaration form. Visitors choose to either declare or not declare that they are importing items beyond their allowance. Those declaring items have their belongings searched, and duty is collected. Those not declaring items are asked to push a button on a street traffic light that is mounted on a post inside thecustoms area. A green light allows you to pass without inspection. A red light will signal an inspection. In the event that items are found that were not declared, heavy fines and penalties apply. You are allowed to bring in any of the following: Personal items, e.g. clothing, footwear, toiletries, all in reasonable quantities according to trip duration. Books and magazines medicine for personal use, with medical prescription in the case of psychotropic substances. Used or second-hand sporting equipment One portable T.V. set, one portable typewriter, and one VCR. Up to 20 records or cassettes A musical instrument Fishing equipment, a pair of skis, and two tennis rackets Three liters of alcohol or wine, if carrier is over 18 years old 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars, if carrier is over 18 years old One movie camera and one regular camera, and up to 12 rolls of film • Returning to the U.S. and Canada You are allowed to enter free of duty any purchases with a combined value of up to USD $400.00 For Canada the amount is CD $500.00 IF travelers have been outside of Canada at least seven days. This allowance may be claimed every 30 days. With a verbal declaration a returning Canadian resident can claim duty-free entry for articles (excluding tobacco products or alcoholic beverages) that do not exceed a total value of CD $20.00 upon return from each trip of more than 24 hours. For the U.S. this limit does not include items listed on the Generalized System of Preferences List (G.S.P.), which are allowed in duty free. Contact the U.S. Treasury Department for a detailed list (Dept. of the Treasury, U.S. Customs Service, Washington , D.C. 20229 ). Upon Arrival By Air You will receive two forms to fill out before you can enter Mexico. These are normally distributed by the airlines either at the ticket counter or while in transit. I know every airline representative will appreciate this next tip: Bring a ball point pen, preferably black. Don't expect to borrow one. With more than 200 fellow passengers there are never enough to go around. The first form is your temporary visa. The form has recently changed and may not be exactly as shown here. They are in several languages, you'll need one per person. Familiarize yourself with this one to avoid embarrassing mistakes later. Upon arrival at the airport you will first go through Customs, which is a simple review of your documentation and warm greeting from the Mexican Government Official. These are nice people, really! Save the stamped copy of which you will receive to exit the country. Back to top Your tourist card will be endorsed for a 30 day stay. If planning to stay more than a couple weeks, be sure to ask for the maximum entry of 180 days. Applying for a longer stay can be a hassle once in Mexico. Play it safe! The second form is for Hacienda which sounds like a nice house to visit, but is actually the Customs and Taxation arm of the government. You will need one of these forms per family. After passing through Immigrations, go to thebaggage area and collect your bags then proceed to the exit. Depending on your destination and size of the airport some of the following may differ. Hand the form to the Customs Agent and push the button on the 'traffic light'. Yes, that's right, a traffic light. It is set up to randomly turn green for Go or red for Stop and Inspect. I've never seen it turn yellow, but you may. If you do get a red light, they will kindly ask to see the contents of your bags. I don't think it need be said here, but I will: Don't be so foolish as to bring something illegal into Mexico. You know what I mean! Driving If you are driving into Mexico, check with your auto insurance carrier. Most companies exclude coverage in a foreign country. If you are involved in a traffic accident: - Do not loose your temper. You're not in Kansas. - Do not leave the place of the accident. - Cooperate with the legal authorities. - Do not sign any agreements nor accept any liability. - Contact your Mexican insurance company immediately. For detailed information please read Driving Into Mexico article . When to Go The travel industry designates several business seasons during the year, High, Swing or Low. If you are coming from the Northern Climes, you probably consider winter the only time to visit. However, persons from others areas of North America, Europe and including the Mexican nationals find the rest of the year equally enjoyable. They also find it quite a bit more affordable. Take advantage of these somewhat arbitrary dates and save yourself some money. The difference between a High Season vacation and a Swing or Low, may be as little as one day and it could save you hundreds of dollars. Other vacationers just prefer the country when there are fewer tourists. Back to top Getting Around the Country Rental Car Rental cars are available from the major rental companies. To rent you must be at least 25 years of age, have a valid driver's license and a major credit card. Be sure to reserve your vehicle before you leave home; this will ensure you the lowest rate and availability. Driving Hitting the byways in a foreign land might sound challenging to some, but to many its their favorite means of getting involved. Especially if you live in the southern reaches of the US, driving deep into Mexico is less than 48 hours away. Gasoline is available at stations throughout Mexico. It is sold in liters (3.78 liters = 1 gallon). Magna Sin (green pumps) is unleaded. Prices are about the same as in the U.S. Only cash is accepted and there is no self service (tips are customary for gasoline attendants). Most stations close by 10 PM. The highway systems between major cities is modern and similar to the freeways further North. What makes them unique is their dependence on toll funding rather than taxation to pay the development cost. So, you should expect to 'pay as you go'. Have a hefty handful of small bills available so you'll encounter no problems with making change. Auto insurance is a MUST, whether you are driving a rental car or your own. Don't expect your hometown agent to supply you with a policy that will be valid in Mexico. Most insurance companies explicitly exclude foreign countries from their coverage. If you have a question, contact your carrier. You will find insurance vendors on both sides of the border crossings. A better idea is to set up your insurance before you go. You might also find that it can be considerably cheaper to do it this way. Major highways are patrolled by Los Angeles Verdes (Green Angels). These government-operated pickup trucks are driven by mechanics . To date, Mexico is the only country with this service. It's free, except for parts and gas! Buses Mexico has a vast inter-city bus system that offers inexpensive, timely and convenient transportation. There are two grades of buses: First Class, with air conditioning and possibly a TV, and a stewardess serving soft drinks and snacks. And Second Class- with no frills. As Second Class costs slightly less than First Class, we recommend you go with First Class. Within the metropolitan centers buses offer the natives their primary means of transportation. For the tourist these can be a bit daunting at first, but when viewed with fun and adventure in mind, they can certainly add color and memories to your vacation. Train Train travel can be safer and more enjoyable than a trip by bus, but considerably more expensive. As with bus service, we recommend you pay for the highest class of travel available. Primera Especial class is recommended for day trips and the top-of-the-line Pullman compartments for overnight travel. Pullman service offers sleeping compartments suitable for one (camarin) or two (alcoba). Each converts to a comfortable sitting room during the day. Back to top Weather Considerations Mexico is made up of several different regions, each with its own type of seasonal weather, climate, altitude and terrain dictating what you will need to be prepared and comfortable. Generally, rains fall and temperatures rise from June through October, leaving November through May as the more temperate, drier season. Here's a regional climate overview: - Northern Baja California Despite the desert landscape, this region resembles Southern California: mild winters with a little rain; warm, dry summers. The Sea of Cortes tends to be warmer than the Pacific side of the peninsula. Annual average temperature: 68 degrees F or 20 degrees C. - Southern Baja California A subtropical desert, with over 350 days of sunshine a year, cool winter evenings, low humidity, sea breezes. Summer temperatures can be high, Generally cooler on the Pacific side. Annual average temperature: 77 degrees F or 25 degrees C. - Northwest Coast Similar to Northern Baja, but with more rain and some storms. Annual average temperature: 68 degrees F or 20 degrees C. - West Coast Also known as the Mexican Riviera, it has warm tropical weather year round. Warm, dry days and balmy evenings from November through May. The rainy season is June through October, with daily rain showers and warm temperatures. Annual average temperature: 77 degrees F or 27 degree C. - Central Plateau Due to higher elevation, it has pleasant spring-like conditions most of the year. Rain is frequent from June through September. Evenings can be quite cool in winter. Annual average temperature: 65 degrees F or 18 degrees C. - The Yucatan Peninsula In this region, proximity to the coast determines temperature and humidity. In summer, Gulf and Caribbean areas stay cooler due to trade winds, while interior jungles are humid, with higher temperatures. Rainfall is frequent from April through May and September through January; temperatures can be higher. September and October sometimes bring overcast or rainy conditions. Winters are very pleasant. Annual average temperature: 80 degrees F or 27 degrees C. - The Gulf Coast Somewhat humid, with warmer temperatures. Rainfall and cool brisk northerly winds (nortes) from September through February. Annual average temperature: 72 degrees F or 21 degrees C. Back to top What to Bring Be sure to include the following in your suitcase: - A pocket-size English/Spanish dictionary - A small first aid kit - Camera and Film - Walking Shoes - Suntan Lotion - Traveler's Checks & ATM cards - Swim Suits - Casual Dress Clothes for Nightlife and Fine Dining - Copies of your favorite Mexico Travel Guide pages! - Sunglasses & Hat - Necessary medications - Passport/Birth Certificate & Driver's License Health Tips In your quest for a good time on your vacation, your eating and drinking habits are often radically different than what you're used to back home. In addition, climate and altitude changes can throw your system off. To ensure you enjoy your vacation to its fullest, consider the following: Be sure to drink lots of fluids; especially the day before arriving. Try not to go overboard your first night. Give your body a chance to acclimate. Drink only distilled or bottled water. When buying fresh fruits and vegetables, be sure to wash them with distilled or bottled water before eating; peel them if possible. Back to top Money, Exchange & Credit The Mexican economy operates on the rise and fall of the Peso. While most businesses will accept foreign currency, especially US dollars, using pesos is your best bet. Foreign currency can be exchanged at one of many casas de cambio (exchange houses). Mexican banking hours are normally Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 P.M. however for money exchange the hours time are normally from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Casas de cambio are open later than most banks and they generally offer quicker service. Credit cards are widely accepted, with Visa, MasterCard, and American Express being the most popular. Check for Current Exchange Rate: Use Xenon Labs' currency exchange calculator to check the Mexican New Peso against your currency. Clicking on the search button will retrieve the current exchange rate for nearly 50 currencies. The rates are usually no more than a couple of days old. MXP Mexican Pesos Tips for Senior Travelers Retired travelers have a great advantage in planning their vacations. There are many advantages to having the freedom to plan a vacation without the hassles of work schedules. Many older travelers find that their favorite times to travel to Mexico are in off season months when there is less demand and less traffic through the resort cities. Usually the summer months are the least in demand due to high temperatures. This can be an advantage if you enjoy shopping and organized tours more than spending time at the beach. Most shops and tour buses are air-conditioned, so the heat shouldn't be much of a concern. The reduced numbers of tourists in the summer months makes getting around much easier, and there is usually more peace and quiet at night. There are a number of discount packages and group tour options for seniors. Your travel agent should have a list of the discounts that you're entitled to in the city that you'll be visiting. There are a number of senior citizens tour clubs that offer members the opportunity to go on tours with a familiar group of people in an organized tour that provides everything that you'll need. There are many senior citizen tour organizations across the nation, most of which your travel agent should be able to provide information about. Even if you don't like traveling in groups or with organized tours, you are entitled to a number of senior citizens discounts. When booking hotel reservations, always mention that you're a senior and ask about discount rates. At restaurants, mention it when you order, not afterward. Many places will refuse the discount if you don't mention it before a reservation or an order has been made. The infrastructure in Mexico is not as well-developed as it is in some countries. If you have a disability, you may find it difficult getting around some parts of Mexico. There are few wheelchair ramps and wheelchair access bathrooms in Mexico currently. In some cities, there aren't even stairway handrails. The sidewalks are typically narrower and aren't maintained as well. If you have any problems getting around, speak with your travel agent about the state of the city you'll be traveling to. Your travel agent should also be able to provide information about hotels which offer accommodations for people with disabilities. If you aren't content just to visit Mexico, it is possible to retire to Mexico permanently. Please click here to see an overview of how to begin the process of retiring to Mexico. 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Italy Travel

Rome Travel Information | Lonely Planet Destination Guide worldguide | shop | thorn tree forum | travel services | travel ticker | theme guides | on the road | postcards | travel links : Explore : Italy Rome Rome The sheer imperial scale of Rome is sure to knock you out. At a Glance Fast Facts WORLDGUIDE Introduction Background Info See Eat Sleep Night Shop Image Gallery Activities Events Transport Money General RELATED Thorn Tree Forum Postcards Travel Links View Map Click here Feature Attraction San Giovanni in Laterano Founded by Constantine in the 4th century, San Giovanni was the first Christian basilica constructed in Rome. It is Rome's cathedral and the pope's seat ... more It's hard to say what you'll find most breathtaking about the eternal city - the arrogant opulence of the Vatican, the timelessness of the Forum, the top speed of a Fiat Bambino, the millions of cats in the Colosseum, trying to cross a major intersection, or the bill for your latte. Make like the locals and souse your senses in the glut of pleasures the city has to offer, from the grandiose thrill of feeling centuries of turbulent history under your feet to the small but potent intoxication of eating chestnut gelati on a hot day. When To Go The main tourist season starts at Easter and runs until October; peak periods are in spring and autumn, when the tour buses pour in and tourists are herded around like cattle. Numerous outdoor festivals and concerts and the fact that Romans desert the city for the beaches and mountains, which means very light traffic and a less-crowded city centre, makes summer almost worth the heat. If you do visit in summer, try to hit the sights early, take a long lunch and a nap, and then head out again around 18:00 to take advantage of the cooler evening. Winters are usually mild with few tourists and some fun events around Christmas time. Factoid Thumbs Up! When in Rome, be sure to enrol in a short course in Gladiatorial Combat. Intensive three day training seminars are available. The Gladiator school is located on Via Appia. Lions supplied but please bring own trident. SPONSORED LINKS Enquire Accomodation Reviews Find Lonely Planet author reviewed places to stay * Required Fields Country * Please select Argentina Australia Austria Belgium Brazil Canada China Cuba Czech Republic Denmark Egypt England Estonia Finland France Germany Hungary Iceland India Ireland Israel & the Palestinian Territories Italy Japan Malaysia Mexico Morocco Netherlands New Zealand Poland Portugal Russia Scotland South Africa South Korea Spain Sweden Taiwan Thailand Turkey USA United Arab Emirates Vietnam City * Please select Travel Services · Flights · Hostels · Hotels · Travel Insurance More Services › Disclaimer: We've tried to make theinformation on this web site as accurate as possible, but it isprovided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injuryor inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information.You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety,customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before youtravel. text & images © lonely planet 2005 about us | privacy | feedback | advertising FAQs worldguide | shop | thorn tree forum | travel services | travel ticker | theme guides | on the road | postcards | travel links

Orlando Vacation Planning Kit

Orlando Vacation Planning Kit  You are here: About > Travel > Travel with Kids Travel Travel with Kids Essentials Family Vacation Ideas Winter and Spring Break All-Inclusive Resorts Ten Latest Family Travel Deals Family Resorts: top places; photos Articles & Resources Family Travel: What's Hot Top Vacation Spots VT, ME, NH, CT, MA, NY, PA Mexico Family Vacations Caribbean Vacations More Beach Vacations Florida Family Vacations Resorts with Water Park More Family Resorts Fun Places for Kids Disney Vacations Family Cruises Babies;Teens;Single Parents Lots More Destinations Family Travel TIPS, GAMES Buyer's Guide TAKE ALONG: Christmas books Christmas flicks Activity Kits more CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Travel with Kids newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Travel with Kids Orlando Vacation Planning Kit Travel with Kids Blog « Beach Vacations | Main | Summer Vacation » From Teresa Plowright , Your Guide to Travel with Kids . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! July 19, 2005 Orlando Vacation Planning Kit How much fun can one city take? Walt Disney World alone is the size of Boston; Universal Orlando has great new attractions, such as the Shrek and Revenge of the Mummy "rides"; the new Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn has set a new high for on-property fun. So maybe you need a free Orlando Vacation Kit : three brochures to help you plan your visit, and maybe get some discounts too. Click above to order online or by phone. Also: read about Nickelodeon Family Suites by Holiday Inn, with two terrific waterplay complexes and games and entertainment developed by Nickelodeon see what's new in Disney World for 2005 : a lot! New attractions, free shuttles to Disney resorts, meal plan... Universal Orlando - for families continued below... Free Official Orlando Vacation Kit Order online at the official Orlando site, or call 1-800-551-0181 (United States and Canada)m to get these free brochures: Official Destination Guide : trip planning advice along with lists of Orlandos accommodations, attractions, culture & heritage, dining & nightlife, shopping, recreational activities and more. Unexpected Orlando Guide : nearly 100 listings of Orlandos natural, cultural and heritage tourism offerings. Orlando Magicard : Offers up to $500 in savings at 114 area attractions, accommodations, restaurants and dinner theaters,ground transportation, and shopping malls. The card can be downloaded at orlandoinfo.com/magicard. In Orlando, visitors can stop by the Official Visitor Center at 8723 International Drive (southeast corner of Austrian Row.) The Center is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day of the year except Dec. 25. Also, for additional assistance or to purchase vacation packages and discount attraction tickets, visitors can call an Official Travel Counselor at 1-800-972-3304 or 407-363-5872. Email to a Friend Display Latest Headlines | | | Read Archives powered by Movable Type Advertisement Most Popular Charades -How To Play Charades Family Vacation Spots The Atlantis Resort Great Places to See Santa Disney Christmas Magic Kingdom What's Hot Grand Floridian Chinese New Year - 2006 Poconos Great Wolf Lodge photo Dog Friendly Hotels, inns, lodges -- find dog-friendly vacat... Kwanzaa Related Topics Florida for Visitors New England for Visitors Theme Parks Hotels / Resorts / Inns Parenting of K-6 Children        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 Grand Floridian Chinese New Year - 2006 Poconos Great Wolf Lodge photo Dog Friendly Hotels, inns, lodges -- find dog-friendly vacat... Kwanzaa Headlines Bunch of family travel deals Latest deals added include a January Travel Special at the... First Nights! "First Night" events celebrate New Year's with family-friendly festivities-- and... Top Family Travel Trends in 2005 It's that time of year... to pause the mad dash... Bookmark the NORAD Tracks Santa site! It's not a family trip, but it's certainly a trip...