Vacation Packages MGM Mirage

MGM Mirage Vacations - Las Vegas vacation travel packages - Las Vegas air/hotel package -- -- Choose Your Package: Flight + Hotel (All Airlines, excluding Southwest Airlines) Flight + Hotel (Southwest Airlines Only) Hotel Only Which package should I choose? Enter Your Travel Details: Customer Service Destination: Las Vegas (LAS) Destination: Las Vegas (LAS) Departure Date: Check In: Departure City: Akron/Canton (CAK) Albany, NY (ALB) Albuquerque (ABQ) Alexandria (AEX) Alexandria (ESF) Allentown (ABE) Altoona / Martinsburg (AOO) Amarillo (AMA) Anaheim (SNA) Anchorage (ANC) Asheville/Hendersonville (AVL) Aspen (DEN) Athens (AHN) Atlanta (ATL) Atlantic City (ACY) Augusta, GA (AGS) Augusta, ME (AUG) Austin (AUS) Baltimore (BWI) Bangor (BGR) Baton Rouge (BTR) Beaumont (BPT) Beaver Creek (DEN) Bellingham (BLI) Big Sky (BZN) Billings (BIL) Binghamton (BGM) Birmingham (BHM) Bloomington (BMI) Boise (BOI) Boston (BOS) Bozeman (BZN) Bradford (BFD) Breckenridge (DEN) Bridgeport (BDR) Brownsville (BRO) Buffalo (BUF) Burbank (BUR) Burlington, IA (BRL) Burlington, VT (BTV) Butte (BTM) Cape Girardeau (CGI) Cedar Rapids (CID) Champaign (CMI) Charleston, SC (CHS) Charleston, WV (CRW) Charlotte (CLT) Charlottesville (CHO) Chattanooga (CHA) Chicago - O'Hare (ORD) Chicago -- Midway (MDW) Cincinnati (CVG) Clarksburg (CKB) Cleveland (CLE) College Station (CLL) Colorado Springs (COS) Columbia, MO (COU) Columbia, SC (CAE) Columbus, GA (CSG) Columbus, OH (CMH) Copper Mountain (DEN) Corpus Christi (CRP) Cumberland (CBE) Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) Dallas-Ft Worth (DFW) Dayton (DAY) Daytona Beach (DAB) Decatur (DEC) Deer Valley (SLC) Denver (DEN) Des Moines (DSM) Detroit-Metro-Wayne Co (DTW) Du Bois (DUJ) El Paso (ELP) Elmira / Corning (ELM) Erie (ERI) Eugene (EUG) Evansville (EVV) Fayetteville, AR (FYV) Fayetteville, NC (FAY) Flint (FNT) Florence (FLO) Fort Lauderdale (FLL) Fort Myers (RSW) Fort Wayne (FWA) Franklin (FKL) Fresno (FAT) Grand Rapids (GRR) Great Falls (GTF) Greenbrier (LWB) Greensboro (GSO) Greenville (GSP) Greenville (PGV) Gulfport (GPT) Hagerstown (HGR) Harlingen (HRL) Harrisburg (HAR) Harrisburg (MDT) Harrisburg-Intl (MDT) Hartford (BDL) Hawaii, Oahu (HNL) Hayden (HDN) Helena (HLN) Hickory (HKY) Hilton Head Island (HHH) Houston - Hobby (HOU) Houston - Intercontinental (IAH) Houston Area (HOU) Houston Area (IAH) Huntington / Ashland (HTS) Huntsville/Decatur (HSV) Hyannis (HYA) Idaho Falls (IDA) Indianapolis (IND) Ithaca (ITH) Jackson (JAN) Jackson Hole (JAC) Jacksonville, FL (JAX) Jacksonville, NC (OAJ) Jamestown (JHW) Johnstown (JST) Joplin (JLN) Kalamazoo (AZO) Kalispell (FCA) Kansas City (MCI) Kansas City-Intl (MCI) Key Largo (MIA) Key West (EYW) Key West (MIA) Killeen (ILE) Kinston (ISO) Klamath Falls (LMT) Knoxville (TYS) Lafayette/New Iberia (LFT) Lake Charles (LCH) Lake Tahoe (RNO) Lancaster (LNS) Lansing (LAN) Laredo (LRD) Lebanon/Hanover/White River (LEB) Lewiston (LWS) Lexington (LEX) Lincoln (LNK) Little Rock (LIT) Long Beach (LGB) Los Angeles (LAX) Los Angeles Area (LAX) Los Angeles Area (LGB) Louisville (SDF) Lubbock (LBB) Lynchburg (LYH) Madison (MSN) Manchester, Nh (MHT) Manhattan (MHK) Marion (MWA) Marthas Vineyard (MVY) Massena (MSS) Mc Allen/Mission (MFE) Medford (MFR) Memphis (MEM) Miami (MIA) Midland/Odessa (MAF) Milwaukee (MKE) Minneapolis (MSP) Missoula (MSO) Mobile (MOB) Moline (MLI) Monroe (MLU) Monterey / Carmel (MRY) Montgomery (MGM) Morgantown (MGW) Moses Lake (MWH) Myrtle Beach (MYR) Nantucket (ACK) Nashville (BNA) New Bern (EWN) New Haven (HVN) New Orleans (MSY) New York - All Airports (EWR) New York - All Airports (JFK) New York - All Airports (LGA) New York - La Guardia (LGA) New York -- JFK (JFK) Newark (EWR) Newburgh (SWF) Niquelandia (MIA) Norfolk, VA (ORF) North Bend (OTH) Oakland (OAK) Ogdensburg (OGS) Oklahoma City (OKC) Omaha (OMA) Ontario (ONT) Orange County - John Wayne Int'l (SNA) Orlando (MCO) Orlando/Walt Disney World (MCO) Paducah (PAH) Park City (SLC) Parkersburg / Marietta (PKB) Pasco (PSC) Pendleton (PDT) Pensacola (PNS) Peoria (PIA) Philadelphia (PHL) Phoenix (PHX) Pittsburgh (PIT) Plattsburgh (PLB) Pocatello (PIH) Port Angeles (CLM) Portland, ME (PWM) Portland, OR (PDX) Presque Isle (PQI) Providence (PVD) Pullman (PUW) Quincy (UIN) Raleigh/Durham (RDU) Reading (RDG) Redding (RDD) Redmond/Bend (RDM) Reno (RNO) Richmond (RIC) Roanoke (ROA) Rochester, NY (ROC) Rockford (RFD) Rocky Mount (RWI) Sacramento (SMF) Salisbury (SBY) Salt Lake City (SLC) San Angelo (SJT) San Antonio (SAT) San Diego (SAN) San Francisco (SFO) San Jose, CA (SJC) Santa Barbara (SBA) Saranac Lake (SLK) Sarasota/Bradenton (SRQ) Savannah (SAV) Seattle (SEA) Seattle/Tacoma (SEA) Shenandoah Valley (SHD) Shreveport (SHV) Sioux City (SUX) Sioux Falls (FSD) Snowbird (SLC) Snowmass (DEN) South Bend (SBN) Spokane (GEG) Springfield, IL (SPI) Springfield, MO (SGF) St Petersburg (TPA) St. Louis (STL) St. Petersburg (TPA) St. Thomas (STT) State College (SCE) Steamboat Springs (DEN) Steamboat Springs (HDN) Sun Valley (SUN) Syracuse (SYR) Tallahassee (TLH) Tampa (TPA) Taos (ABQ) The Canyons (SLC) Toledo (TOL) Tri-Cities (TRI) Tucson (TUS) Tulsa (TUL) Twin Falls (TWF) Tyler (TYR) Utica (UCA) Vail/ Eagle (DEN) Victoria (VCT) Visalia (VIS) Waco (ACT) Walla Walla (ALW) Washington DC - All Airports (BWI) Washington DC - All Airports (DCA) Washington DC - All Airports (IAD) Washington DC - Dulles (IAD) Washington DC - Reagan National (DCA) Waterloo (ALO) Watertown (ART) Wenatchee (EAT) West Palm Beach (PBI) White Plains/Westchester (HPN) Wichita (ICT) Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AVP) Williamsburg/Hampton/Newport News (PHF) Williamsport (IPT) Wilmington (ILM) Winter Haven (GIF) Winter Park (DEN) Worcester (ORH) Worland (WRL) Yakima (YKM) Yankton (YKN) Youngstown (YNG) Yuma (YUM) Departure City: Select Origin Albany (ALB) Albuquerque (ABQ) Amarillo (AMA) Austin (AUS) Baltimore (BWI) Birmingham (BHM) Boise (BOI) Buffalo (BUF) Burbank (BUR) Chicago (MDW) Cleveland (CLE) Columbus (CMH) Corpus Christi (CRP) Dallas/Love Field (DAL) -- Detroit (DTW) El Paso (ELP) Ft. Lauderdale (FLL) Ft. Myers (RSW) Harlingen (HRL) Hartford (BDL) Houston (HOU) Houston (IAH) -- Indianapolis (IND) Jackson (JAN) Jacksonville (JAX) Kansas City (MCI) Las Vegas (LAS) -- Little Rock (LIT) Long Island/Islip (ISP) Los Angeles (LAX) Louisville (SDF) Lubbock (LBB) Manchester (MHT) Midland/Odessa (MAF) Nashville (BNA) New Orleans (MSY) Norfolk (ORF) Oakland (OAK) Oklahoma City (OKC) Omaha (OMA) Ontario (ONT) Orange County (SNA) Orlando (MCO) Palm Beach (PBI) Philadelphia (PHL) Phoenix (PHX) Pittsburgh (PIT) Portland (PDX) Providence (PVD) Raleigh/Durham (RDU) Reno (RNO) Sacramento (SMF) Salt Lake City (SLC) San Antonio (SAT) San Diego (SAN) San Jose (SJC) Seattle/Tacoma (SEA) Spokane (GEG) St Louis (STL) Tampa Bay (TPA) Tucson (TUS) Tulsa (TUL) Return Date: Check Out: Airline: Southwest -- No Airline Preference http://reservations.mgmmiragevacations.com/ Alaska Airlines America West Airlines American Airlines ATA Airlines Continental Airlines Delta Air Lines Frontier Airlines Midwest Airlines Spirit Airlines United Airlines US Airways Adults: 1 2 3 4 Children: 0 1 2 3 Ages of Children: na 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 na 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 na 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Promotion Code: Need help booking online? Valid Southwest Airlines origin cities Questions on previous booking? -- Complete Las Vegas Vacation Packages MGM Mirage Vacations makes it easy to plan your Las Vegas vacation. Choose the air and hotel package that's best for you and get started a creating on a memorable Las Vegas vacation package. Stay at the MGM Mirage Hotel & Casino, MGM Grand, Bellagio, New York-New York, Treasure Island, or the Beau Rivage in Biloxi, Mississippi. See a Las Vegas show, book a wedding package, golf or tour a fabulous Las Vegas attraction. -- HOT DEALS - 2 Nights Air/Hotel Vacations from Oakland from $239 per person from Denver from $269 per person from San Jose from $328 per person from Chicago - Midway from $374 per person from New York - La Guardia from $434 per person More Hot Deals HOT DEALS BY EMAIL Sign up to receive weekly emails featuring deals like those featured to the left. First Name: E-mail Address: Zip Code: Privacy Policy CURRENT SPECIALS Save $10 per person, per night -- Booking Bonuses What's New in Vegas? More Specials Complete Las Vegas Vacation Packages MGM Mirage Vacations makes it easy to plan your Las Vegas vacation. Choose the air and hotel package that's best for you and get started a creating on a memorable Las Vegas vacation package. Stay at the MGM Mirage Hotel & Casino, MGM Grand, Bellagio, New York-New York, Treasure Island, or the Beau Rivage in Biloxi, Mississippi. See a Las Vegas show, book a wedding package, golf or tour a fabulous Las Vegas attraction.

TRAVEL GUIDE Czech History

CzechSite Prague Travel Guide FIX UP YOUR TRIP Book Your Hotel Book Your Apartment Book Your Car Take a Guided Tour Let's Go Outdoor Get a Free Map Get a Guide Book Find the Connection Improve Your Czech Message Board TRAVEL GUIDE Czech History Famous Czechs Visas and Embassies General Information Getting There Getting Around Architecture and Sights Chateaux and Castles Music, Film, Theater Museums and Galleries Pubs and Restaurants Sport Activities Banks and Money Post, Phone, Internet Laundry Medical Care Shopping Around DISCOVER PRAGUE Photo Album Virtual Reality Tour PRAGUE EVERYDAY This Season News Get Daily News Weather Forecast Exchange Rates GENEALOGY Find Your Roots BUSINESS GUIDE Relocate To Czech Hello from Prague! It is night, Wednesday, December 28 in Prague andall Czech people named Bohumila are celebrating their name day. ALFONS MUCHA Exhibition Brotherhood of the Slavs is presented in The House of the Golden Ring till January 8. Find more in This Season News BOOK YOUR APARTMENT Book reasonable apartment for you in Prague through our new service introduced this spring. Find more in Book Your Apartment IMPRESE Rudolfinum Gallery presents exhibition Imprese till January 8. Do not miss it! Find more in This Season News KAREL SLENGER Trade Fair Palace presents Modern Art by Karel Slenger till January 15. Find more in This Season News DAY OF SKIING Let's go out to Krkonose mountains for one day skiing with us. Find more in Let's Go Outdoor SMS GATE Does your Czech friend have a cellular phone? Send him or her a message. Try our SMS Gate CLASSICAL MUSIC Municipal and Rudolfinum concert halls present classical music concerts almost daily. Find more and get the tickets online ABOUT THIS SITE This nonprofit travel guide for your trip to Prague and Czech Republic is located in San Francisco and is updated from Prague daily since 1996. Find more about this site . CHRISTMAS TIME Day is short in Prague, weather is cold and there is huge Christmas tree on Old Town Square. It is wonderful time for walking around this romantic city. Sometimes it might be rainy or snowy, good opportunity to go inside some gallery or exhibition hall. At night you could visit an opera, listen some classical music concert or see some black light theater performance. Enjoy Christmas time in Prague. THE BEST RESTAURANTS Check out the best place for your dinner in our large addressbook of the best Czech restaurants. Find more in Pubs and Restaurants YOUR NEAREST EMBASSY Find your nearest embassy in our large database of Czech missions abroad. Find more in Visas and Embassies NAME DAY SEARCH Do you have a Czech friend? Find out her or his nameday. Try our Name Day Search © CzechSite, San Francisco, Prague, 1996-2005. All Rights Reserved. Contact Webmaster Online accommodation (hotel, hostel), car rental, guided tour reservation, photo album, virtual reality.

Italy Travel

tuscany italian region travel guide accommodation holiday farm villa hotel tuscan holiday italy tuscany holiday travel guide informative tourist accommodation hotel farm apartment direct booking tuscany travel guide tourist tips discount holiday accomodation in Tuscany hotel farm villa attractions tips map weather travel tips places of art charming towns of the best charming italian region. direct contact to accommodations tuscany online brochure natural parks calendar live events last minute offers. Tuscan traveller ideas... Agritourism in tuscany Art cities list tuscan towns tourist info Art city guided tours more about tuscany Wine & food taste tuscan wine roads home-made food olive oil Thermal spas list relaxing places in tuscany Meetings & incentive more... Alternative vacation where to learn in tuscany Active vacation lists biking walking tours in tuscany Schools lists in tuscany learn italian language in tuscany Itineraries in tuscan y: what to see where to go in tuscany Honeymoon travel ? charming romantic ideas for wedding in tuscamy Golf course club tuscany play relax and tuscan charming hills... Shop in tuscany - shopping online Shopping in tuscany: artisans companies producers manufacturers: where to buy the tuscan art Shopping online tuscany : buy books maps travel guides gourmet foods vhs audio tapes cd dvd Having fun in tuscany HOME Where to eat Traditional charming eatery in Tuscany find the best restaurant cheap "family trattoria, your best night in tuscany: Disco pubs clubs Internet Point cafes check your email surf on internet. Free E-cards send e-postcard home Tuscany free ecard slide show: send best charming tuscan places Italy. Leave comments rate photos. publish your best travel photo. > click here Tuscany accommodation direct booking cost effective holiday rentals HOME accommodation farmhouse villa countryside holiday farm agriresidence homestead relais chateaux charming apartment guest house farmstay accommodation hotel & residence direct online discount bed & breakfast downtown beach inn suite accommodation townhouse self catering apartment town-house flat cheap lodging studio hostel accommodation charming historical residence castles convent abbey historical romantic buildings accommodation refuges mountain wild life tuscany charming hils accommodation outside tuscany sleep just outside close to tuscan border. Calendar events special saving home Calendar homepage special offer events festivals tuscany Italy money saving and discounts: last minute tuscany farmhouse apartment last minute tuscany hotel residence last minute tuscany townhouse rooms Best tuscany coast beach sea islands HOME Mediterranean sea Riviera of Versilia beach closest to Florence Coast of the etruscans Maremma area Island of Elba Capraia island Coast outside tuscany ligurian coast Levante Riviera Beach services: bathing establishments Tuscany museums list home Anthropology , Archaeology , Art Art & Archaeology Natural history History Science & Technology Specialized museums Natural paradises home Best charming places in tuscany natural paradises like parks reserves protected areas. best tuscany beaches charming tuscan coast the islands the fine white sand of Versilia beach closest to Florence . Moving in tuscany Italy home transportation in tuscany Italy tips to find the best services for moving by car train boat plane Cruises rules of road in Italy Best TO EAT IN TUSCANY home Restaurants best genuine tuscan restaurant pizza's places cheap family "trattoria" in tuscany. find it here Camping in tuscany home Rest area service facilities for campers & motor home camp sites tourist villages caravan sites, camping sites caravan parks. Tuscany tourism organizations > home Support organizations in tuscany Uffici Comuni Enti. Travel tourist boards APT toscana Italian tuscany medical supplies > hoME Links tips to prime care and medical supplies in tuscany. click here Movie about tuscany home "Under the tuscan sun" romantic charming movie of tuscany or buy this book. find it here Tuscany Weather forecast home Real time weather conditions tuscany Italy cities towns Today 48 h 72 h 96 h place ...and towns to see home Discover places art city charming towns in tuscany see photos tuscany read about history print for your travel guide. Art cities home Florence S iena L ucca A rezzo P isa G rosseto L ivorno P istoia P rato M assa C arrara Charming places home Tuscan chianti area Apuans Alps Lunigiana Garfagnana mountains help travel tips Tuscany & italian maps find a map driving directions useful mapped routes. Why travel to tuscany ? some reasons for visiting tuscany. Your first time in tuscany ? travel tips useful info traveling in Italy. Guided tours in tuscany Italy Vacation Planner : let us help you finding the best accommodation that meet your needs best time & money saving. Rent a Phone A cell phone while traveling is a good idea. Universal Currency Converter european euros € to your currency. Curiosities about Tuscany home Events news history museums churches archeology History Help Information Sport Activities. Ansa news or Italian google news real time news Italian News. RECOMMENDED LINKS Places to visit home Italian regions & cities Places outside tuscany other italian places to visit regions events italian cities Recommended external links other resources tourists travel tips recommended sites for travelers. Online booking in Italy online secure booking reservations. FAQ about tuscany & Italy >home Frequently Asked Questions about traveling in tuscany (italy) find it here Tuscany photo gallery home See the best tuscany photos collected from our visitors around tuscany find it here ABOUT US: welcometuscany is a group of publishers in tuscany with partners in USA We offer free traveling and tips to discover in tuscany and Italy. Our believe is: "The secret wish of any tourist is to feel at home" We get only a little income from owners yearly rates from accommodations that why accommodation itself remains very low for you to enjoy a cost effective vacation in Tuscany. Lodgings listings Direct owners accommodation discounts Hotel online booking reservation in Italy reservation tuscany hotel reservation apartment versilia coast < BACK YOU NEED MORE ABOUT TUSCANY AND ITALY ? Visit the best italian related search engine about Italy ! www.trovo.net Welcometuscany is a travel guide holidays all about tuscany best resources travelling idea map weather events place town art cities charming holiday accommodation discount online hotel booking farmhouse homestead villa bed & breakfast: We give informations as accurate as possible but it is provided 'as is' we have no responsibility for any loss injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this guide. Feedback Internal search More about us Directory-Google Regional > Europe > Italy > Regions > Tuscany - google tuscany travel guides Welcometuscany e' guida turistica toscana in inglese piu' visitata dall'estero. Presente sui motori di ricerca internazionali e agenzie turistiche offriamo qualsiasi tipo di informazione turistica via email pubblichiamo strutture ricettive di ogni tipo e siti ad turistico. Contatti - Supporto Inserimenti - quote - servizi Aiutaci a promuovere la toscana nel mondo: Se hai un hotel agriturismo appartamento agenzia turistica Aggiungi questa guida turistica sul tuo sito. Vuoi maggior visibilita' all'estero? registrati gratis su www.trovo.net

Europe Travel Planner 10

Eastern Europe Travel Planner Web TransitionsAbroad.com Home Work Study Travel Living Transitions Abroad Magazine September/October 2000 Related Topics Independent Travel Budget Travel More by the Author Work in Prague Paying Bills Back Home Eastern Europe Travel Planner 10 Tips for Visiting “The Other Europe” By Mishelle Shepard It’s true that the majority of Eastern European destinations are not for every traveler. Those who seek comfort and luxury should probably not venture far beyond capital cities like Prague, Budapest, Berlin, Tallinn, and Warsaw. But for those wishing to travel beyond the tourist zone and seek real off-the-beaten path places, people and experiences, Eastern Europe has countless options. Musicians add ambiance to a stroll on the famous St. Charles Bridge in Prague (Photo by Kent St. John) Guidebooks and locals have different definitions of what exactly constitutes “Eastern” and “Central” and “Southern” Europe. Including Albania and Romania with the same traveling advice given for the Czech Republic and former East Germany poses loads of obvious problems. Still, some general tips apply to many countries and can help alleviate minor discomforts. Bring Some Necessities I laughed the first time I left for Eastern Europe in 1990 and my grandfather told me to bring toilet paper. Thinking surely since his visit to communist Russia in the 70s there’s been some improvement, I dismissed the idea. Little did I know that after a couple of weeks I would be begging my family to send me even a 4-pack of bargain brand. Although I wouldn’t dream of loading myself down with such things as kleenex, plastic zipper bags, feminine products, or anti-perspirant, outside the main capitals such things are still difficult to come by. Even in a decent restaurant in a major capital the toilet paper resembles something close to a thin brown-paper lunch bag, and in public facilities it’s rationed according to a per-square price. I consider traveling with emergency reserve tissue an absolute necessity. Choosing Accommodations Planning ahead online is now so convenient that it’s a waste of time not to make reservations when traveling to the major cities in summer. In general, however, even where accommodations are plentiful there can be lack of mid-priced choices. The convenient and popular chains that have sprung up all over the West have not yet filtered deeply into Eastern Europe. • When considering where to stay, a good up-to-date guidebook with phone numbers of accommodations in your price range provides quick and easy piece of mind. Some countries also have extensive hotel and pension listings online that offer discounted reservations, but a follow-up call or fax is still a good idea. • In smaller towns, hotels are reasonably priced and can be found right in the town center. Remember, however, that public transportation stops early in the small towns and a lack of taxis could find you stranded. Even in a heavily touristed spa town like Karlovy Vary during the International Film Festival, a stay in the pedestrian center with breakfast in a well-run 2-star hotel costs about $40. • Pensions are a good budget choice in larger cities and are usually friendlier than a crowded hotel. Still, pensions are only a good option when they’re close to public transport, because a late night taxi ride when public transportation is sparse can quickly offset the savings in room cost. The same goes for private rooms offered by individuals—changing from bus to subway to tram can cost considerable time and money. • When alone, a hostel can’t be beat for meeting other travelers. “Junior” hotels are a similar option in many Eastern European countries and they often rent bikes and other sports equipment. And hostels are not just for students, they offer an affordable alternative for families and other budget-minded travelers. • Camping is a great way to meet lots of locals, but, of course, packing gear is inconvenient when traveling around a city. As in Western Europe, the bungalows fill up quickly in summer, so hauling around a tent may be unavoidable. Unfortunately, in a few countries the camping facilities might be the best accommodations available. Money In major cities credit cards are an easy and safe bet, but not some pensions and campgrounds or smaller bars and restaurants. When paying with a credit card outside the capitals, be warned, sometimes the machine is (mysteriously) broken, and you’ll be asked to pay in cash. If it’s absolutely necessary for you to pay by card, it’s best to make sure in advance. Cash machines are easy to come by in cities, but rare in villages. Carrying cash to smaller destinations is unavoidable, but costs are still relatively low outside the popular spots, so a little goes a long way. The foreigner pricing system still exists but is becoming less common because merchants realize travelers don’t appreciate spending two times the normal price for the same services. Not everything is a bargain in Eastern Europe and doing a bit of research can help you avoid mistaken assumptions or false claims. For example, skiing in some Eastern European destinations is just not worth the meager reduction in cost when you consider the T-lifts, crowds and quality of rental equipment. Beyond the Capitals Traveling as an English-speaker to small towns and villages may get you some longer-than-average looks, but it will also get you warm hospitality, a more authentic perception of local life and some great cross-cultural experiences. Choosing a destination depends on your interests. For first-time travelers, it can be less isolating and still very rewarding to visit vacation destinations that are popular with Eastern Europeans but fairly untouched by native English-speakers. Places like the Great Masurian Lakes near the border between Poland and Lithuania, the coast of Croatia, the Giant Mountains of Slovakia, or the spa towns in many countries are good choices. UNESCO world heritage sites, such as Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, the medieval town of Torun in Poland, or the famous caves of Slovakia and Slovenia are also interesting destinations. It can be fun to plan a“theme trip,” focusing on historical sites and castles, wine regions, or tracing your roots. To Drive or Not to Drive When renting or buying a car for exploring Eastern Europe you have to consider all the hidden expenses. Many countries have toll roads that require you to have a sticker or else dish out a hefty fine on the spot. Sometimes extra insurance is required for cars originating from the West, and gas prices are very high. City-to-city travel by car usually isn’t worth it for groups of less than four. On the other hand, driving can be beneficial if you have limited time and want to see as many places as possible, including all the quaint country villages and castles along the way. Getting Educated For many of us, even the biggest culture hounds, Eastern Europe has remained largely a mystery. Misinformation during communist times has been followed by a general lack of information since. Still, there are numerous books, including Eva Hoffman’s Exit into History, that poignantly describe the culture, politics and history of the region in an entertaining style. There are also some very informative web sites on Eastern Europe. When researching the culture, don’t exclude fiction, especially books written by communist dissidents. A much truer picture of the people, their dreams and their difficulties will emerge than if you limit yourself to non-fiction. Another good cultural education option is to see popular locally produced films, which you can often view with English subtitles at cinemas in the capital cities. Opportunities for work and study are continually expanding, although most economies are still in heavy transition. Those countries hoping for EU entry are adopting stricter visa regulations, so it pays to keep up-to-date at the various embassy web sites. In the major cities, there are many news sources that will keep you up-to-date, and internet cafes have changed the face of traveling altogether. From keeping in touch with family and friends, to knowing what’s going on in town to meeting people, nothing beats the convenience of on-line access when abroad. The Dreaded Languages Unfortunately most of us didn’t have a couple of years of college Ukrainian and Polish along with our French and Spanish. In Western Europe, most travelers can usually manage, but in off-the-beaten-path Poland the choice is to either to improve your gesturing skills or grow very attached to your phrasebook. If you’re staying for more than a few days, it’s worth the effort to learn some of the language. It’s not easy, but you’ll be rewarded with mountains of praise from the locals. There’s no need to take formal lessons unless you plan to work or go to school. Instead, just try offering an exchange of English for Czech, Hungarian, or whatever, and chances are you can work out a mutually beneficial arrangement. Speaking Russian in most countries won’t win you a popularity contest. The few locals who remember their required Russian don’t usually care to speak it and would rather try their hand at charades or even very broken English. Services Although it’s true the atmosphere has changed considerably in the last ten years, that change has stayed primarily in the capital centers. But even in the capitals, old habits die hard. Service varies widely between downright “tippable” to completely aggravating. However, many of us are spoiled. I, personally, can’t recall ever getting better service anywhere in Europe (with the exception of London) than I get regularly in the States. The rule I try to stand by is, don’t pay any more attention to the service than they pay to you. That way when it’s good you’re pleasantly surprised and when it’s not you hardly notice. This attitude has taken a bit of training, but it’s been worth it in the long run. Meeting the Locals Visiting the local festivals is a great way to meet people in a milieu that is not necessarily language-dependent. Medieval reenactments, world championship sporting events, or traveling Romany festivals attract more locals than tourists. It’s easy to find out what’s going on by simply asking around, checking information centers, or reading the monthly cultural guides available in cities and on-line. Not only have many of the natives changed in the past ten years, the ex-pats have as well. The number of ex-pats living in the most popular Eastern European capitals has actually gone down since its height not long after “the fall.” Hanging out at one of the typical ex-pat bars for the true cross-culture seeker used to mean selling out and choosing cultural “isolation,” but now many of the foreigners living here are in intercultural marriages and actually speak the language or heartily try. Moreover, the locals have found the ex-pat hangouts a great place to meet young travelers and practice their English. Shunning the ex-pat scene today could mean missing out on where the jobs are or the chance to meet locals who are looking to get to know you. The Invitation More so than in Western Europe, social life takes place in people’s homes. Just a bit of preplanning is a sure-fire way to meet people even before you arrive. More than once I’ve started correspondences with people on-line and had the time of my life when they invited me over once I arrived in town. It’s important to be cautious, of course, but an invitation to a local’s home opens otherwise tightly closed doors. Rustic weekend cottages and garden plots play a big role in local life in many countries and are a great way to really get to know people. What began as a practical and economical alternative to traveling remains a favorite escape from the city and a special treat for the honored guest. The East in general has retained a sense of formality and hierarchy that has become foreign to most of the West. At the same time, Eastern Europeans seem to expect the traveler to break the rules. The same faux pas that would probably get you a repressed sneer in France will be noticed with only a subdued snicker in Poland. Reading up on the local customs will remind you that taking off your shoes in someone’s home, bringing a small bouquet to the host, avoiding probing questions over dinner, sitting with strangers at a restaurant and other common courtesies are not typically shared by westerners. Perhaps undeservedly, Americans (and other native English speakers) are, for the most part, still adored in most of Eastern Europe. Of course, there has been quite a bit of “demystification” on both sides in the last ten years, but now even among the older generations apprehension has been replaced by full-fledged curiosity. That means the typical tourist misses out on great opportunities for a real cross-cultural experience while their eyes are glued to the cathedrals and their ears are pinned to the city guide. Many first-timers from the West are surprised how far the major cities have come compared to what they’ve read or seen in the past. Other travelers notice how little has really changed in some of the more remote villages. One thing is certain, though; while prices are still low and locals still curious, it’s well worth it to take advantage of this part of the world and appreciate what is undoubtedly a fleeting moment in time. Selected Web Sites www.inyourpocket.com . www.centraleurope.com . www.cdc.gov/travel/easteurp.htm. goeasteurope.about.com/mbody.htm. www.culturekiosk.com . www.hotelscentral.com . www.adventureguide.com . www.concierge.com . Newsflashes General Complying with EU regulations means many countries are updating visa policies. All Canadian tourists will need a visa to travel to the Czech Republic in 2001. Long-term visas are already required for Americans, but the requirements for obtaining one may become less stringent. Slovakia Food and service is still regularly improving and many new options have opened in Bratislava’s The Old Market Place. The new Montana’s Grizzly Bar has already become a popular hang out. Czech Republic In Karlovy Vary the famed Nezvala theatre of Helmer and Fellner, complete with the original curtain by G. and E. Klimt and F. Matsch, has finally reopened after several years of reconstruction. The annual International Film Festival, which takes place in early July, is gaining more international recognition every year. The 1999 appearance of Woody Harrelson caused quite a stir, and Milos Forman is a regular favorite. Prague was chosen as one of the European cities of culture for 2000. Under the broad theme of “cultural heritage” the city has different activities planned throughout the year. The famed ex-pat meetingplace and bookstore The Globe has moved to a bigger and better location: Pstrossova 6 in Prague 1. Eastern Germany This year marked the third year for the annual Summerfest of Theatres in Berlin, for budget travelers it’s a great way to enjoy scenes of local productions for free. The Erotic Museum is an interesting alternative for travelers tired of the run-of-the-mill art and history museums. Poland Krakow, is another of the Year 2000 cities of culture, plans to extend the cultural events into a 5-year program to promote tourism. For nightlife seekers in Krakow the new In Vitro dance club is a popular hip-but-cheap option. Slovenia The international summer festival in Ljubljana is getting bigger and better every year. Not to be missed is the International Biennial of Graphic Arts at the Museum of Modern Art. The Julian Alps are a cheaper alternative to a mountain getaway than her Austrian and Italian neighbors, but expect higher prices than other Eastern European countries. MISHELLE SHEPARD is a freelance writer currently teaching English and French at Charles Univ. in Prague. She served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Czech Republic from 1994-96. You may contact her at mischelleshepard@hotmail.com . Web TransitionsAbroad.com Home Work Study Travel Living Disclaimer ©Transitions Abroad

Cruise Vacation

CRUISE VACATION INC. Cruise Vacation Inc. Huntsville, Alabama Member The Travel Experts Who Meet Your Vacation Needs TRAVELSAVERS Member Use the following Search tabs to find the information you need Cruise Specials Book Cruise Land Special s Book Land Trip Group Special s FAQ 's Contact Us Preferred Supplier s 1- 800-239-9997 or 1-256-880-6700 Our Mission Is To Supply: The best Budget to Upscale Vacations Worldwide at Discounted Rates P ass p ort s and Visas online (below) "special" Credit Cards (on the Cruise S p ecials Pa g e ) The best International and Domestic Airfare Rates at competitive prices The nation's Best Travel Insurance A highly trained, certified, accredited staff to serve you & meet your needs. ** To Receive " Vacation Specials " complete this " Entire " form and Submit NAME (first and last) Mailing Address City, State, Zip Code (Area Code) + Phone E-mail address Additional Comments Complete Cancellation Protection Click the Logo to book our " Primar y Trip Insurance " This is our most complete insurance coverage. Click back button to return here. Need a Pass p ort or Visa ? Click the Logo to purchase. Click the back button to return to this page. Just for airfare protection Click this Logo for Airfare ticket p rotection . Click back button to return here. Click the Logo for Ba g Trackin g . Click back button to return here. Click Logo at left for the best in "last minute" coverage . For trips lasting 7 to 21 days. Click back button to return here. To receive the maximum discounts and fastest response, call: 1-800-239-9997 any day of the week. If we are not available, or it is after business hours, leave a message with your name, your phone number and the best time to call you in your calling area. We will get back to you as soon as possible. You can always email your requests, or comments to: cruisevacationinc@cruisevacationinc.com or cruisevacation@mindspring.com Cruise Specials Book Cruise Land Special s Book Land Trip Group Special s FAQ 's Contact Us Preferred Supplier s [Hit Counter] "i-resetvalue="6761" startspan --