CRUISE VACATIONS 2005 -

Antarctica Travel Antarctica Cruise Antarctica Vacation Antarctica Travel Cruises and Tours Antarctica Travel Cruises Tours Reservations & Inquiries ANTARCTICA TRAVEL CRUISE VACATIONS 2005 - 2006 Explore the Drake Passage and the Antarctic Peninsula aboard the M/S Andrea Cruise Antarctica on the m/s Andrea. Pre-departure materials and final documents for the trip. All meals on board including wine and beer served with lunch and dinner. On Antarctic Cruises Only: One night pre-cruise accommodation in Ushuaia, Argentina at a first class hotel on a bed & Breakfast basis. Group Transfer with porterage from the hotel to the ship and from the ship to the airport . All shore excursions including Zodiac cruising and landings where necessary. (On Antarctic Only). Services of a professional expedition leader and guest lecturers. Port Charges. Post Expedition Log. Special Expedition jacket (on Antarctic cruises only). Cruise Antarctica & Sub-Antarctic Islands Antarctica Adventure Cruises Choose from 9 luxury cruises aboard the M/S Andrea From 10 nights to 18 nights Departure Dates & Prices Cruise the South Shetland Islands , Drake Passage and the Antarctic Peninsula aboard the Grigoriy Mikheev Antarctica Expedition Cruises Choice of 9 Antarctica Cruises From 10 nights to 18 nights Falklands - South Georgia - Antarctic Peninsula Our small, specially designed expedition ships journey south, taking full advantage of the 24 hours of daylight during the austral summer. Ice-strengthened hulls and state-of-the-art equipment allow us to navigate safely through the pack ice and narrow waterways. Our zodiac excursions, guided by foremost Antarctic experts, offer the freedom to explore remote locations and observe Antarcticas abundant wildlife. Our cruise itineraries include: the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), South Georgia and the South Orkney Islands. Departure Dates & Prices About Scantours General Conditions Travel Insurance Practical Tips CST # 2022206-40 SCANTOURS INC. USA Toll free US & Canada: 1-800-223-7226 Local Phone: 310-636-4656 Fax: 310-390-0493 Comments? Suggestions? E-mail us at info@scantours.com 2003 Scantours Inc. All rights reserved. HOME USEFUL LINKS Webmaster

Spain Travel

Freelance Spain - Travel Facts Spain Destination Spain DESTINATIONS AT A GLANCE Want to discover one of the world's favorite countries? Here are some basic facts for the traveler in Spain. When to go In general, late spring and late summer-early autumn are the best times for traveling in Spain. Fair weather is practically guaranteed, and the countryside is at its best. High summer is stiflingly hot in most inland areas, including Madrid and the inland cities of Andalusia such as Seville and Crdoba. Big cities, especially Madrid, empty during August, with many shops and restaurants closing, though a visit then does have advantages, such as light traffic (you can even find a parking space). Summer weather is milder along the Mediterranean coast, but July and August in popular resorts such as the Costa del Sol are best avoided unless you like crowds. Summer along the northern coast of Spain, from the Basque Country to Galicia, can be very pleasant. Winters along the Mediterranean coast are generally mild, but expect occasional heavy rains - alternating with long spells of glorious sunshine - any time between October and April. In inland areas, winter temperatures can reach below freezing and snow is is not infrequent. Bear in mind Spain's fiestas when planning a trip - be it to go to them, or to avoid them. During major fiestas such as the San Fermin bull runs in Pamplona or the April Fair in Seville, hotel rates double and even so rooms must be reserved months in advance. Getting There Practically all transcontinental flights land at Madrid's Barajas airport, so you will need to book an extra flight if you want to travel by air to another destination in Spain. Air fares between North America and Europe are highly competitive. You might find it cheaper to fly to Spain via another European country. Rates between Great Britain and any number of destinations in Spain are especially worth checking out. Rail communications between the rest of Europe and Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia and Seville are very good. There are also regular ferries between southern England and northern Spain. Major cities in Spain are well connected to continental Europe and each other by motorway. Entry Formalities If you are a citizen of a European Union country, all you need to enter Spain is a national identity card. In the case of the United Kingdom, which does not issue such cards, you'll need a passport. Visas for stays of no longer than 90 days are not required for travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia or New Zealand, but South Africans do need to apply for a visa before they leave. Language A knowledge of Spanish will enrichen a trip to Spain, but you can get by perfectly well with English in the major destinations. Spaniards are in general friendly and tolerant towards foreign visitors. Getting Around Spain is a big country - the second largest in western Europe after France - so don't expect to "do Spain" in a week. Flights between Spanish cities are frequent, but the fares tend to be high. Iberia, Spanair and Air Europa are the major operators. Train service between the larger cities is excellent, and irreproachably punctual, but slower in the case of smaller regional cities. The bus is an inexpensive alternative. Driving in Spain Renting a car is a reasonably-priced option, and by far the best way to travel if you want to enjoy Spain's rich and varied countryside. The major international car hire firms operate in Spain; local companies usually charge somewhat cheaper rates. In any case, it is usually a better bet to reserve and pay for your rental car from home, before you leave. To rent a car you have to be over 21 and have a valid driver's license. Your national license is valid for driving in Spain as a tourist. Major roads are generally good, though traffic can be heavy on more popular routes, especially on weekends or during holiday periods. Local roads range from good and pleasant to hair-raisingly narrow and winding. Enquire locally before embarking on a driver to a distant village, and don't take a road just because it is a reassuring color on the road map. Avoid driving in cities: it can be a nightmare experience, especially if you're unfamiliar with the city or with some of the quirkier local driving habits. Park in a guarded parking area, and take a taxi, which are very good value in Spain. In Madrid, it's worth familiarizing yourself with the excellent Metro (subway) system. Money Matters The official currency in Spain is the Euro Credit cards are widely accepted in Spain, Visa and Masters more so than American Express or Diners. Provided you know your Personal Identification Number, you can use your card to withdraw cash from ATMs in Spain. Often, you'll find the rate of exchange is more favorable than if you go to a bank or exchange bureau. When exchanging money at a bank, avoid converting small amounts at a time, as the minimum commission charged can be prohibitive. Most Spanish banks close in the afternoon, all day Saturday during summer, and all day Sunday year round. Value added tax (IVA) is charged on purchases, at a rate of 16% for most goods and services (it is 7% for hotel accommodation). If you are resident of a non-European Union country, you can get a refund of this tax on purchases over 100 Euros in certain participating shops. The refund can be claimed at the airport customs office on your departure: you can either get cash there, or have them send a check to your home address or credit the amount to your credit card. Staying in Touch To call abroad from Spain, dial the international access code (00), then your country code (such as 1 for the US, 44 for Great Britain), then the number. If you have a phone card from your home company, you can place a call by dialing your company's access number in Spain: ATT 900 990 011 MCI 900 990 014 Sprint 900 990 013 British Telecom 900 990 044 Mobile phones can be used in Spain provided they conform to the European GSM standard and the "roam" feature is activated. Hotels In general, hotels in Spain are comfortable and good value. Hotels in large cities such as Madrid and Barcelona are around twice the price as hotels elsewhere in Spain. Hotels are rated from one to five stars, which gives a rough indication of their facilities, but not of the friendliness or efficiency of the service. Fodor's guide to Spain gives good, up-to-date information on hotels in the major Spanish destinations. Hotels often offer good deals in slower periods, such as summer in Madrid. When phoning for a reservation, always ask for the room rate, and enquire regarding special offers. Spanish hotels do not normally require your credit card number to accept a reservation. For more advice on choosing where to stay in Spain, see the article by Nick Inman on Hotels in Spain , and check our Guide to Hotels in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Granada and Seville. Electrical Current The electrical current in Spain is 200 volts, 50 cycles AC. Plugs are of the continental type, with two round prongs. American appliances require a transformer and a plug adapter for use in Spain. Have A Question? If you have a question regarding any aspect of traveling in Spain, you can obtain personalized travel information from the experts by visiting guidebookwriters.com . In addition, you can post a message in our Forum section to request information or exchange views with other travelers to Spain. For useful on-line sources of information for travelers, head for our Links section and click on "Travel". DESTINATIONS AT A GLANCE : Madrid - Barcelona - Bilbao - Granada - Seville Almera desert - La Mancha - Formentera Canary Islands: La Palma - Canary Islands: Puerto de la Cruz FREELANCESPAIN HOME Freelance Spain Showcase - Journalists - Photographers Features - Travel - People - Freelance Selections - Editor'sShortcut - Links little@spainview.com

Japan Travel

U.S. Commercial Service Japan: Travel and Tourism Sitemap BUYUSA.GOV -- U.S. Commercial Service Japan Local time: 07:42 AM Travel and Tourism Highlight Reports Japanese Outbound Travel Market Japan is the largest overseas travel market for the United States. In 2000, the number of Japanese outbound travelers totaled 17.8 million, an increase of 8.9 percent over the previous year. The U.S. is the most popular overseas destination for Japanese travelers, receiving more than 5 million Japanese travelers each year. The total market for Japan's international travel to the U.S. exceeded US$13 billion in 2000. Japanese Overseas School Travel Market In Japan, almost all schools including primary, junior, and senior high schools, both public and private, organize school trips for their students. Although most schools organize domestic excursions, the number of high schools that have been organizing overseas school trips is increasing. Useful Links International Trade Administration Tourism Industries Travel Industry Association of America (TIA) Japan Visit USA Committee Japan Association of Travel Agents CONTACTS Unit Chief: Joel Fischl Commercial Specialist: Yoko Hatano Home Focus on JAPAN, the World's Second-Largest Economy Exporting to East Asia & China Just Got Easier! How We Help U.S. Companies How We Help Japanese Companies Doing Business in Japan Country Commercial Guide Japanese Customs, Etiquette, and Culture Industry Highlights Public Comment Update Business Service Providers Useful Links FAQs Contact Us Our Worldwide Sites Other Asian Markets Export.gov Trade Portal 日本企業の皆様へ Search! Printable version Last updated 2004-01-21 © 2001-2005 All rights reserved Privacy Policy Disclaimer

travel insurance is the

Worldcare Travel Insurance Australia - Travel Insurance Quote Home | Site Map | Travel Links | Travel Insurance Forms DID YOU KNOW? Next to your toothbrush, travel insurance is the second most important thing to pack when planning an overseas trip! travel insurance Cheap Travel Insurance to suit your needs!. Worldcare Travel Insurance gives you comprehensive benefits at a competitive price! Whether, you're sailing in the Caribbean, backpacking through Europe or just relaxing in the Whitsundays, our travel insurance policies have been designed to suit your needs. Our policies give you access to 24 hour emergency medical and travel assistance from anywhere in the world, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Unfortunate events can happen on your holiday. Whatever the situation, feel rest assured that we are only a phone call away. We can help you Choose The Right Plan , otherwise you can obtain a QUICK TRAVEL INSURANCE QUOTE by completing the details below. quick quote PLEASE COMPLETE ALL DETAILS BELOW: * Indicates a Mandatory Field Plan Type: PLAN A - Comprehensive International PLAN B - Australia Only PLAN C - Budget Cover PLAN D - Worldcare Frequent Traveller * Need help Choosing The Right Plan/Destination? Read Product Disclosure Statement Destination: Asia Europe Pacific Worldwide * Need help? Start Date (dd/mm/yyyy): * End Date (dd/mm/yyyy): * No. of Adult Travellers: 1 2 * No. of Dependent Children: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Are all travellers citizens or residents of Australia? Yes No Note: Quick Travel Insurance Quote excludes premium for any additional options. Insurance issued by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850. This is general information only and does not consider your needs. You should consider the Product Disclosure Statement before making any decisions about this product. Security Policy | Definitions | Usage Agreement | Privacy Policy | Duty of Disclosure Disclaimer | Medical Advice | Get Adobe Acrobat This insurance is arranged and managed by ETI Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL No. 245631 and is issued and underwritten by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL No. 234708. Website development by Speedwell

Family vacation adventure Fear

--Fun family vacation adventure-- Finding Happiness and Self-actualization Happiness HOME Top 5 ways to find happiness Personal growth articles Daily Happiness free ezine Self-help book on happiness The Get Happy Workbook Happy Class free online Find happiness Definition of happiness Find happiness products Happiness directory Best happiness books Find self-actualization Free ebook: daily inspiration and motivation Selfactualisation? self actualisation? Humor column Guest articles Best self-help books Be happy with The Happy Guy Motivational keynote speaker Happiness coach Rave reviews Contact The Happy Guy Your privacy FAQ The Happy Guy's bio Link to The Happy Guy Be a Happy Guy affiliate Advertise with us! Business directory "Unfortunately, some people believe their schedules are more important than their lives." David Leonhardt, as quoted in The Reader's Digest "This above all, to thine own self be true." William Shakespeare. Sign up for your daily dose of happiness and inspiration. First name Your e-mail address: Click on the smile to subscribe! Personal Growth Articles Index Aging Gracefully An author reflects Angel Gift Story Anger Management Tips Body image issues Child Birth Story Customer service Define Happiness Definition of self-actualization Definitions of happiness Doing good deeds Dr. Phil's Books Dr. Phil McGraw's Life Laws Expectations Extreme fatigue Family vacation adventure Fear of grass Flea market lessons Gratitude journal Happiness Poem Happiness takes patience Happiness tips Hippo rage Holding on to grudges Hotel Stella Home of the year How to Stop Bad Breath I am a Grinch Making changes in life Memory loss Money and happiness Olympic medal happiness Overcoming fear (book review) Penguin leadership Red balloon story Reduce stress for health Self-actualization v.s. personal growth Self-confidence Short friendship poem Stress-relief tips Thanksgiving Day The happy jar Tiger and the three pigs Wildflower poem More articles... Travel & leisure articles Family & parenting articles Humor & satire articles Check out also Articles on nutrition Network monitoring and web site monitoring Coming soon: World Vacations travel directory FREE: Meditation techniques and tips HOT: Free positive thinking book RECOMMENDED: Stress relief tips and techniques List of articles | Article reprint permission details | More related information Squish, climb, splash: a family adventure vacation Learning from our toddler on vacation by David Leonhardt There is never a dull moment when you vacation with a two-year-old . And there are always such wonderfully fun lessons to be learned, too. For instance, we allocated the first day of our family vacation to the zoo. God allocated that same day to watering his plants. OK, so it was not quite rain. I mean, it was hardly worth the embarrassment of losing another fruitless struggle with that rusty old umbrella. But it was more than just a mist. Bit by bit, it overtook me. My sneakers cried out "Squish! Squish! Squish!" as I walked. My wife started calling me "soggybottoms". I was getting downright moldy. Little Lady, on the other hand, was in Seventh Heaven. This was finally her chance to take out her brand new umbrella. Her umbrella was her newest, most favorite toy that her way-too-picky father would not let her play with in the house. But today, she could play with it all day in the rainy mist or misty rain or whatever the big people want to call it. Vacation Adventure Lesson #1: Find the silver lining. And if you can't, get yourself an umbrella. A true adventure vacation: mountain climbing A few days later, we headed to a lookout in a mountain park. Along the paths, we found ourselves trying to dodge speeding cyclists who thought "maximum 15 miles per hour" means "Yee-haw, we've reached warp speed!" Seemingly lost, we stopped to ask directions. The young lad we approached pointed straight up. "It's a half an hour back the way you came, or you can take these stairs," he advised. I doubted whether either my pregnant wife or Little Lady could handle the stairs, but they both wanted to try. (Seventh Heaven might be an umbrella, but a toddler's first six heavens apparently involve climbing anything in sight and a mountain was just as good as anything else, I suppose.) At the top of the first flight, we saw that the next set of stairs was even higher. A lady behind us said, "Try counting them to pass the time. There are 205 steps." Was that meant to be encouraging? Amazingly, Little Lady climbed 180 steps, and my pregnant wife was able to keep up at Little Lady's conveniently slow pace. I had to carry one of them up the remaining 25 steps (no, not my wife!), where I dumped the stroller and picnic basket so we all could catch our breath. Vacation Adventure Lesson #2: It's amazing what you can do when you try, and it's more than amazing what some people will try. Family fun in a toddler's ocean Our vacation was also the first chance for Little Lady to swim. We placed the water wings on her arms and stayed really close. This suited her just fine for almost three minutes. Then she wanted to swim "all alone" (her favorite words). You might have heard that the biggest danger for a new swimmer is sinking. Or hitting your head on the edge of the pool. Or developing cramps from too many French fries just before swimming and drowning in your own cholesterol (or something like that). In fact, the big danger is a big mouth. Little Lady closed her mouth whenever I reminded her. But just 3.2 seconds later, her mouth would be open again, shouting "Lookit me!" and "I did it!" and other eloquent cries muffled by the gurgle of water pouring into a gaping mouth. Vacation Adventure Lesson #3: Sometimes it is worth getting excited about life and shouting it out to the world ... even if people do keep telling you to shut your mouth. Next time you go on vacation, bring a toddler along. I promise you three things: 1. You will get less rest than Santa Claus on December 24. 2. You will always have a fun adventure. 3. You will learn more than you ever wanted to. Get a personal growth humor column like this in your inbox every week. For more personal growth articles check the menu to the left . Permission is granted to republish this article on your website on condition that you include the following byline with all hyperlinks intact: David Leonhardt is author of Climb Your Stairway to Heaven and The Get Happy Workbook . He also runs a Liquid Vitamins Store and a website marketing strategies web site Related information Join Club Mom