Central America Travel |

Central America - Travel Stories from Around the World - BootsnAll.com Home | Ask an Insider | Members Forum Plane Tickets | Youth Hostels | RTW Guide About Us | Advertising | Search | RSS | Staff First Time Visitor? Travel Stories Africa - Travel Stories from Africa Asia - Travel Stories from Asia Middle East - Travel Stories from the Middle East Europe - Travel Stories from Europe North America - Travel Stories from North America Central America - Travel Stories from Central America South America - Travel Stories from South America Pacific - Travel Stories from the Pacific and Australasia Travelogues - Travelogues from around the world Central American Travel Stories Below you will find stories written by travellers on their experiences in Central America. If you would like to submit your own stories for this region, click here . Belize | Costa Rica | Dominican Republic | El Salvador | Guatemala | Honduras | Jamaica | Nicaragua | Panama | Puerto Rico Belize Relax, Mon Matt Scott quickly adapts to the easy-going pace of Caye Caulker - both above and below the water. Diving Adventure in Belize Seasickness, wild waves and an overflowing toilet weren't going to keep Kristin Piljay from diving in Belize's blue waters. PepperOni, Island Style A Washington state man sells off three pizza joints and stateside life to open shop in a bamboo-covered trailer in Belize. Belize & Tikal, Guatemala Justin Bryant tackles wildlife, forests, scary restaurants and rickety bars, but why worry, man? It's Belize. Dreadlocks & Voodoo Jack Simpson, Jr honeymoons in Belize where he experiences dark caves and voodoo rituals. No tigers though. Living the Life of Raleigh Recounting horror stories from the foreign bush is just part of the Raleigh International experience. Costa Rica Pura Vida en Costa Rica Whatever your taste, you can find it in Costa Rica. Lee Abbamonte promises that you will want to return time and again. The Legend of La Mona Did a half-woman half-monkey, with a hysterical laugh, prey on Andrew Black's sanity? Costa Rican Beach Bum Buddha People can touch your life, even if you know them only for a short while. Shawn Cooley reflects on the people that touch the life of a traveler. Seven Days in Costa Rica Traversing through the rainforests next to an active volcano, David Alan Robinson makes the most of his seven days in Costa Rica. Don't Miss the Boat Costa Rica is considered one of the most ecologically abundant areas in the hemisphere, writes Judy Wolf. It has distractions and attractions galore - beaches, surfing, nesting sea turtles, cloud forests, active volcanoes, rivers and more. La Catarata Rebecca Bowe and her friends put their clothes back on and made their way back up the path feeling exhausted and full of wonder. Touch the Wire After 2 years of highs and lows Brandon Dane's hand got pried off the high-voltage line of life. He can't wait to clutch on again. La Fortuna Fiesta A spring break with a difference, Catharine Wells traveled to Costa Rica to see Volcan Arenal. Instead she arrived in time for a local festival. Tico's Rampage (or, The Shortcut) The story of Craig Guillot's right leg dashes on a mad horse through Costa Rica. Los Chiles , Costa Rica Many different ways to travel on this river, in varying degrees of comfort. Puntarenas , Costa Rica Taking the bus from Puntarenas to Nicaragua and back. Dominican Republic The Missing Piece of the Puzzle The hidden mountain village of Los Quemados is poor, but those who come to know it see the beauty of the countryside and its people. El Salvador Biting the Bullet William Koplitz went to El Salvador to go surfing and was shot by thieves after being in the country for 24 hours. La Union , El Salvador Boat problems lead to a refreshing break on the island of Conchaquita. Guatemala Don't Worry, It's Straight Ahead, and Other Guatemalan Fibs NEW! Children run from her shrieking, she has to catch a ride on a dump drunk and Claire MacDonell still has another week in the mountains of Guatemala. I Will Survive: Early Morning in the Guatemalan Jungle with a Drag Queen The temples of Tikal are cause for awe and wonder. But Diana Reed found herself wondering about one of her fellow visitors to the ancient ruins. The Idiot's Guide to Good Transport in Guatemala Diana Espirito Santo navigates the scary, but rewarding, world of Guatemalan transportation. The Complete Rules of the Road for Driving in Guatemala Ken McCormick provides a basic set of rules for surviving (or not) Guatemala's notorious highways. Deconstructing Travels To Tikal Amongst the huge stone temples at Tikal, Shawn Cooley waxes philosophical. Fear (but no loathing) in Guatemala Explosions ripped Shannan Murphy out of an exhausted sleep. But she learned she had nothing to fear, but fear itself. Avoid being Ripped-off in Guatemala Maury Englander follows up his story of being robbed in Guatemala City with some tips to help you avoid the same fate. A Guatemalan (Sad) Story Maury Englander was distracted for just a second, but that's all it took for thieves to end his holiday in Guatemala. The First Great Maya City: El Mirador Don Parkinson's 20 mile hike through the jungle was rewarded the view from El Mirador, the largest of the ancient Mayan cities. ER in Guatemala The nightly turtle races were all the excitement the village of Monterrico was supposed to offer. Laurie Magree found a bit more than that after helping to save two locals attacked by a machete-wielding drunk. Volcano Pacaya Hiking a live volcano should be adventure enough, but throw in a few bandits and it's downright scary. Antigua: Home Sweet Home Semana Santa is one week when Antigua gets even more international visitors than usual. Through the Looking Glass... How I was rescued from the jungle by a Belizian fisherman, his son, and a dog named Red. Indigenous Markets in Guatemala Experience the fun of a local market, but don't forget to arrive early! Ascent to Pacaya Hike to the top of a live volcano in Guatemala. "Mundo Olmeca"...in Guatemala?! Guatemala is famous for being the heart of "Mundo Maya". So what's this about "Mundo Olmeca"? I am not as young as I used to be... Local Guat buses can take you to beautiful places, but you've gotta have the stomach for it. Rio Dulce , Guatemala The Hotel Backpackers is a great way to meet other travellers in Rio Dulce. Honduras Roatan: a Caribbean Island in Transition NEW! David Alan Robinson snoops around Roatan and witnesses another Caribbean island that is poised for development. A Bridge in The Bay Islands The Great Barrier Reef and the Red Sea pale in comparison to the quality of the Bay Islands of Roatan. Time may be running out, writes Lee Abbamonte, to see this unspoiled area. Don't wait. Bloody Football Today's football heroes are worshipped, but in an ancient time, they worshipped the gods with human sacrifice. Escape from Roatan Leaving Roatan, Honduras felt more like an escape than a departure for Diana Espirito Santo. Island Time Island Time - undetermined quantity of time just long enough to infuriate, confuse and befuddle a sick-stomached mainlander, writes Thomas Jones. Like a Fish to Air Roatan is reknown for diving, but it also forces Kristina Johnson to confront her fears. Utila - Hangover in Paradise A tequila hangover doesn't stop Malcolm Blakey from spending 2 weeks diving and eating on the island of Utila. Dead Pirates and Frozen Fish Battling a fever in Honduras, Christine Michaud uses the only thing at her disposal to cool down: a frozen fish. Jamaica Jammin' in Jamaica Shirley Camia witnessed both the beauty and tragedy of Jamaica's tourism and its people. Broken Space & Time in Jamaica It was just before turning back that the strangest series of events unfolded for Ajay Nityananda and his friend. Nicaragua Hippocrates Laughs Shawna Kenney goes to Central America to cure her friend's loneliness and finds another world in the process. Panama Counting the Hours on Contadora NEW! Troy White visited the only nude beach in Central America, called 'Swedish Girls Beach.' The problem was: there were no Swedish girls, just he and his friends. Casco Viejo NEW! Mike Heavers is awed by resilient, sensual, enticing Casco Vieja - epitomized by the daily struggle against poverty by its people. La Casa Grande What Chris Lele's search from the website blurb on Casa Grande led him to expect and what he found was different, even shocking. Puerto Rico A Tropical Independence Day: Giant Ferns, Aliens and City Folks Regardless of the fact that it sits on one of the Bermuda Trangle's corners, Elda P. Acevedo found El Yunque to be an extremely beautiful and possibly enchanted place. Home | Email BootsnAll | Become a Member | Top of page Travel Guides, Stories, Information, and Newsletters Africa Travel | Asia Travel | Australia & NZ Travel | Europe Travel | Middle East Travel | Round-the-World Travel | North America Travel | Central America Travel | South America Travel | Caribbean Travel | Pacific Islands Travel | Antarctica Travel | Odds'n'Ends | Travel Book Reviews | Insiders | Travel Blogs | Travel Newsletters Around the World Travel Around the World Tickets | Around the World Travel Guide | Cheap International Plane Tickets | Around the World Travel Tips Airport Parking Reservations Philadelphia Airport Parking | Newark Airport Parking | Oakland Airport Parking | San Diego Airport Parking | Phoenix Airport Parking BootsnAll World Adventure Travel Tanzania Safari | Viet Nam Tours | Thailand Tour | China Tours | New Zealand Adventure | Australia Tours Youth Hostels Europe Hostels | New York Hostels | Paris Hostels | London Hostels | Amsterdam Hostels Eurail Eurail Passes | Britrail Passes | Eurail Travel | Eurail Tips Book Tickets, Hostels, Hotels and more anywhere in the world Search for Hotels | Traveler's Toolkit | Plane Tickets | Rent Cars | Search Youth Hostels | Travel Insurance | Learn Languages | Backpacker Tours | Cheap Tickets | Cruise and Vacation Packages | Cheap Hotels | Cheap Vacation Rentals | World Music Downloads | Travel Bookstore BootsnAll Travel Community websites, blogs and About the Company Press Kit | Advertise with us | Internships | TripPlanner Affiliate Partners | Link to Us | Join Us! | Privacy policy | BootBlog | Bali Travel | Australia Travel | BootsnAll TravelBlogs | Travel Writer's Resource | Travel Gear Blog | Eurail Blog | London Blog | BootsnAll Travel: Australia | UK and Europe Travel | Travel News Daily | World Travel Watch BootsnAll in Other Languages Chercher des Auberges De Jeunesse | Ricercare gli Ostelli di Gioventù | Busque para Albergues Juveniles de Juventud | Suchen Sie Jugendherbergen Suchen Sie Hotels --

South America Travel |

South America - Travel Stories from Around the World - BootsnAll.com Home | Ask an Insider | Members Forum Plane Tickets | Youth Hostels | RTW Guide About Us | Advertising | Search | RSS | Staff First Time Visitor? Travel Stories Africa - Travel Stories from Africa Asia - Travel Stories from Asia Middle East - Travel Stories from the Middle East Europe - Travel Stories from Europe North America - Travel Stories from North America Central America - Travel Stories from Central America South America - Travel Stories from South America Pacific - Travel Stories from the Pacific and Australasia Travelogues - Travelogues from around the world South American Travel Stories Below you will find stories written by travellers on their experiences in South America. If you would like to submit your own stories for this region, click here . Argentina | Bolivia | Brazil | Chile | Colombia | Ecuador | French Guiana | Guyana | Peru | Suriname | Uruguay | Venezuela | X-country Argentina Argentina: Yours Truly Ema Kant's whirwind tour of Argentina still leaves her breathless, long after she's returned home. Candy From a Baby The last place Erik Trinidad wanted to be during the Argentine recession was in a bank in Buenos Aires. But that is where he found himself, and where he left in some haste. An Unabashed Gluttony Tour Food is Joe Ehrlich's 'thing'. Good food at good prices, but you'll find out a few more things about Argentina along the way. Argentina, with a Kiss on the Cheek Of all the international countries Edward M. Uli had traveled to, his business trip to South America was the most interesting experience of all. The Church of Tango Cherie Magnus was a pilgrim drawn to the altar of Tango and she was thankful to have prayed at La Catedral. Buenos Aires: the calm before the riot Sylvia Seschel could not have timed her visit any better, just two days before the economic riots. However, that won't stop her from coming back to beautiful Buenos Aires. Buenos Aires: A Foodie's Paradise, but Hold the Crisis! Despite the impending financial crisis, Gerry Schwartz found Buenos Aires a city with great architecture, wide boulevards, and a love of food at all hours. Springtime in Patagonia: "Muy Bonita" Bariloche was a relaxing break from the stress of Buenos Aires and it remided Gerry Schwartz of a Swiss alpine town. Mendoza: Vino and the High Andes Do Mix Gerry Schwartz found a little slice of Italy in northwestern Argentina. On the Buses Long distance buses ar a great way to cover the vast distances of Argentina. It also gave Gerry Schwartz a great opportunity to chat with the locals. Blood on the Rocks Aconcagua is advertised as the highest trekking peak, but Robert Geier warns that it deserves much more respect than that. In Patagonia: Rio Gallagos Deep in Patagonia, it is possible to believe that time is diluted down to its raw form and the passing of the years occurs at a different pace. Solo Tango in Buenos Aires Cherie Magnus made a pilgrimage to BA to to experience the legendary dancers' dance. Glaciers Nat'l Park Crossing the continental ice at the end of April is a travesty in winter. Patagonia , Argentina Whale watching, sandboarding, penguins and porpoises. Patagonia has it all. Tilcara , Argentina It's not just the altitude that takes your breath away in this small village. Bolivia Bolivia's Day of the Sea NEW! A war with Chile claimed Bolivia's coastline 125 years ago, but that doesn't mean the people have forgotten their love of the sea - or hatred of Chile. Rediscovering a Lost World Rob Hawke makes the ultimate pilgrimage of nature, a journey to the heart of isolation, in Noel Kempff National Park, Bolivia. Bolivian Oblivion on the Mapiri Trail The part-trek, part-commando run of the Mapiri Trail is certain to amaze, enrage and exhaust even the most hardy of would-be Rambos, according to Ben Garside. The Witches' Market Walk the Witches' Market with Thomas Carroll in La Paz, Bolivia as he and his wife shop for some strange items. El Choro: Trekking in Bolivia The lush vegetation, ancient undisturbed architecture, countless waterfalls and extreme physical challenge made El Choro stick in Chris Douglas's mind as the most rewarding hiking experience he has ever had. Los Pistoleros Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid are Justin Pushman's favorite Bolivia guides, now if only they had told him to bring a jacket. Where's My Dealer? Probably on the same boat as the other gringos, but Justin Pushman would be just as happy to find a fish restaurant. On the Bolivian Trail of "Che" Juan Larranaga visited two small Bolivian towns that were significant in the life and death of Ernesto 'Che' Guevara. DEA & Macaws Jack Simpson Jr. traveled to Bolivia to see the Llanos de Mojos - the unfenced grasslands of cattle and cattlemen and vaqueros, and, sometimes, drug lords. Into the Lungs of Hell The silver mines of Potosi, central Bolivia are a place where men die weekly. Be sure to pay homage to the lord of the mine. Snapshots of Mamore, Bolivia Travelers resistant to mosquitoes and wasps, preferably non-vegetarian, are given a better chance of survival when when travelling on this river. Five Stars, Stolen Cars and Rainbows in the Mist After a night spent dancing and partying, what better way to see a La Paz sunrise than drive to the top of a mountain in a stolen car. The Faint of Heart Need Not Apply The La Paz-Coroico road, reportedly the most dangerous in Bolivia if not in South America. Brazil Bacchanalia NEW! There is no such thing as inhibition at Carnival in Bahias. In every direction, there are couples embracing, so that the smell of human and animal craving hangs in the air like a sweet gas. But it doesn't really matter. There is no reason to speak, nothing really to say. Favella Folly Martin Holloway believes he has his guardian angel to thank for getting him out of the Rio favella he naively wandered into. Easter Break in Brazil Bryan Lazerow and his wife took a spur-of-the-moment trip to the interior of Brazil for a ridiculously low price. The Heart of the Amazon Kim Tally and her father had an adventure of a lifetime, abandoning themselves to the magic and wonder of the Amazon. Specks of Sweetness in the Jungle When it comes to fruit, Wes Sander found the Amazon region of Brazil to be unmatched in quantity and variety. The Pantanal and the Transpantaneira The sounds of hundreds of birds, taking flight and landing, made the trip to the Pantanal worthwhile. Maybe this was the hint that Richard Remsberg should have quit while he was ahead. Off Season in a Beach Town Richard Remsberg discovers why renting a dune buggy to drive himself is not recommended on the hills and beaches of Canoa Quebrada. The Girls from Ipanema Rio during Carnaval is crammed with tourists from all over the world. Even so, Sheila Lamb and friends found some locals and had a wonderful experience. Shopping Like a Hoochie-Mama In the middle of a snow filled winter, Sheila Lamb found shopping for clothes for her impulse trip to Brazil very liberating. It Happened One Night A first glance and a few days on the Amazon have Philip Blazdell making hard choices of life and love. The Call of the Amazon Meghan Lambert finds herself in the untainted heart of the Amazon and receives a healing gift from the river. Galloping through the Mountains of Bahia On a horseride in Brazil, Meghan Lambert finds she could easily be a cowgirl, if only the theme music wasn't so depressing. Gemstones Galore Allan Taylor found Rio to be the gemstone capital of the world for the sheer quantity, variety and quality of the stones. Ilha Grande: low tech, low stress Cheryl Morris prefers Robinson Crusoe rather than Princess Cruises type of holidays. Brazil's Ilha Grande suited her perfectly. The Magic of Bahia Cheryl Morris found the African heart of Brazil with its own distinct spirit and rhythm. Women and Waterfalls In a land rife with poverty, violence and growing discontent, Stephanie Lemieux danced in the middle of a stream with a stranger who did not speak her language. Carnaval in Bahia Dan Newman experiences Carnaval away from the tourist crowds of Rio. Salvador's Carnaval is said to be the most authentic celebration in Brazil. Surely you must be joking, Mr Niemeyer Despite its wide deserted streets, its science fiction inspired architecture and its strange compartmentalised layout, Philip Blazdell couldn't help but bond with Brasilia - Brazil's capital. Non Stop Erotic Bingo Philip Blazdell visited Sao Paulo and was visually overcome by the sheer size of the locally named 'third greatest city in the world'. Rio de Janeiro After a year in Brazil and constant advice from his colleagues in the North East not to go to Rio, Philip Blazdell decided it was time. Axé Rio! (Party Rio!) Allen Rainey's head has cleared up enough for him to write about Rio's Carnaval - and to wonder when he's going back. Aboard the Floating Asylum Dreams of a relaxing cruise down the Amazon, from Manaus to Belem, turned out to be more of a nightmare. Tough Place; Tough Men Jack Simpson's journey to Brazil to look at property was made memorable more for the people he met than the countryside he saw. Brass Conflict at the Beach A brass band whipping up a hip-grinding samba? Well in Rio, yes. For as the local dictum goes, everything ends in samba. Suffer the Children If torture and murder be games, then the only people who play with Rio's street kids are the death squads, observes Craig Guillot. The Ghosts of Rio Rio's 'ghosts' aren't actually people who are dead. But they are invisible, even when they do die. Gringa in Sampa As Brazil's commercial capital, Sao Paulo can't compare to Rio for sights. However, there are plenty of alternative sightseeing opportunities if you know where to look. Manaus, a Jungle Within a Jungle Although surrounded by the Amazon jungle, Manaus is a bustling city, not some sleepy tropical village. Prohibition Town Blues On a trip to Natal, Brazil's northeast beach capital, election day means no drinking. The Secret Policeman's Whorehouse A boat up the Amazon is an excellent way of travelling and meeting people. Merely being there implies an adventurous spirit. Talkin' About a Revolution A trip to Belem, capital of the Brazilian state of Para to investigate the recent civil unrest. Rumble in the Jungle A shoddy bar the Brazilian jungle is no place for an Englishman as his team takes on the world champs of football. 500 Years of Brazil The irresistable pull of Brazil to those who have lived there, especially around the country's 500th anniversary. The Spirit of Carnaval A fail-proof technique for doing the samba and then applying it at Carnaval. So This is Carnaval Carnaval is many things to different people, but it has to be experienced. Thinking About the Past Slavery is very much a part of Brazil's history, even if it is a fading memory. What Is It About Brazil? Some things that make Brazil unique, both good and bad (but mostly good). The Blanket Express to Salvador Salvador has been described as "a Greek salad of cultures, a place of great spirituality". However, it also has a dark past that should never be forgotten. Chile On Andean Trout Allan Taylor found trout fishing in Chile tended to be a no-frills activity. Use of a rod is considered an idiosyncrasy of foreigners and an unnecessary luxury. El Teniente While wandering around Chile, Allan Taylor took advantage of the opportunity to visit the world's largest underground mine. Volcanoes Are My Friends Haydn Barlow climbed a mountain on a mission for snow. Perhaps he should have chosen one that was not an active volcano. Fiordland Cruise Allan Taylor explored Chile's wild west fiordland coast, a fascinating region of unique natural beauty, from the comfort of the Terra Australis. Angler's Kitchen Allan Taylor suggests ways you can always be sure of a hot meal while on the road, without worrying about voltage converters or replacement gas cylinders. Puerto Natales - Puerto Montt Nicky McLean describes the three days aboard the ferry running from Puerto Natales to Puerto Montt in southern Chile. A Miracle in Viña After a great encounter with a local in Chile, Gerry Schwartz took a chance for the price of a stamp and experienced a miracle in return. Me & Pinochet Circumstance can make for subtle revenge - even for Brad Newsham, an honest San Francisco cab driver who unwittingly gets back a little at Chile's Gen. Pinochet. Fishing Guide for Travellers Guide for backpackers who like the idea of catching a fish now and then whilst roaming the world, with emphasis on South America. Midwinter in Argentina and Chile There is much debate over who has the southernmost train station in the world. Colombia Romancing the Boy When she's spent more time at the mall than in the garden, what's Mica Campbell supposed to do when her boyfriend takes her to Colombia for a vacation? Transporte Publico Traveling by bus through Colombia, Mike Heavers is entertained by his surroundings - and the toilet. Time Off in Taganga Chris Vezey found Taganga, Colombia to be a strange place with odd people. Costa Loca Ivan Rothko ponders his risks being in idyllic, yet illusory, Santa Marta, Colombia. La Tres Equinas In the old walled city of the land of Escobar, Justin Pushman finds that ordering coke is as easy as ordering beer. Parque Tayrona The jungle might be closed for cleaning, but that won't stop Justin Pushman, if he can ignore the dealer in the hotel corner. Shed a Tear for Cartagena This Colombian city used to be a wonderful travel destination - not so now. Fred Perry compares and contrasts past and present. Colombia, Underwater Close encounters with a stingray, barracuda sightings and breathing from an air pocket in an underwater cave. Medellin, Colombia Considered by many to be the most dangerous city in the world, with drug lords and assassinations, but also home to a famous artist and a festival of flowers. Sleepless Sojourn On a small tropical isle, sleep doesn't come easy. But it's when the water runs out that the fun really starts! Manou A story about an intense love affair between two people in the Colombian town of Cartagena. More Than a Walk in Cartagena This Colombian town could be a compression of nearly everything you might have ever fancied about Latin America. Ecuador An Evolutionary Experience The islands that inspired Charles Darwin's theory of evolution inspries different thoughts and feelings for Aidan Doyle. South American Bus Veteran Justin Rydberg considered himself a veteran South American bus passenger and considered an 8 hour journey in Ecuador to be a piece of cake. He quickly learned each ride is unique for surprises. Slow Train to Market It's not often Richard Remsberg is up before the sun, but he found two very good reasons during his time in Ecuador. Ecuador by Bus If you need to get somewhere, anywhere, in Ecuador chances are it will be by bus. Fiona Maharg caught a glimpse of Ecuadorian life on these journeys. Quito: Blood, Guts and Pigeon-Shit-Splattered Peaks Quito, like other colonial cities in Latin America, was founded on blood. Dominic Hamilton found this reflected in the colonial art collections. Cactus of San Pedro Don't Try This at Home! In the village of Vilcabamba, Ecuador an impulse to stay an extra day turns into an unusual experience. New Year's in Ecuador All of the misfortunes and unhappiness of the "Año Viejo" go up in flames in the city of Cuenca. Not So Perfect in Paradise A trip to the Galapagos Islands leads to some interesting experiences. French Guiana Chasing Rainbows - French Guiana Once home to exiled French prisoners, visitors might now find Guiana the right side of safe and just the wrong side of decadent. Guyana By Smuggler's Boat From Guyana to Venezuela Adventure travel of a different kind on a smuggler's boat to Venezuela. Peru A Dying World Living on man-made islands that must be reproduced every day, those on the Islas Flotantes stuggle to combine their old way of life with the demands of the tourists. On The Inca Trail Follow Thomas Gayton as he strolls the Inca Trail - observing, partaking, thinking. A Walk in the Park Much to Phil Ganz's surprise, the Inca Trail proves to be the magical, mystical place everyone says it is. A Place Above The Clouds Nearing thirty years of age and having traveled extensively, Eric D. Lehman decided he wanted to go somewhere legendary, see a world wonder. What he saw brought him to tears. Devils That Do Good Thomas Carroll's goal was to see the 'inner vision' of his mind by attending a shamanic San Pedro ceremony. From Protest To Full-Scale Riot The Nazca people could feel Samantha Colburn's boredom and thought they would help out her and her friends. Stuck Between a Rock and a Hard Place Samantha Colburn and her friends arrived into Cusco filthy, flea-bitten, starving, thirsty and exhausted. But they were alive. Four-Day Trek on the Inca Trail Robyn Dwyer quailed in her squeaky new hiking boots and wondered if she was going to make it all the way to Machu Picchu. Traveler, Protect Your Money Learn how to spot counterfeit bills in Peru with Thomas Carroll and save yourself the hassle of funny money. When Wish You Wish Upon A Star, Altitude Sickness Will Flee Far The first shooting star Erik Trinidad ever saw happened to be while he was on the Inca Trail, and it granted his wish. Dollars or Sols? Changing money in Peru is a long, drawn out process. Justin Pushman used it as an opportunity to practice his Spanish, but he soon wished he'd kept his mouth shut. Nazca to Cusco The most direct route was fraught with kidnappings and robberies, but Justin Pushman was in the perfect condition for a two day Andean pass bus journey. He'd already drunk most of a bottle of dark rum. Finding the "Lost Treasure" of Tranquillity in Huanchaco Randell Lee appreciated and understood the true value of 'wasting time' and doing absolutely 'Nothing!' in the beach town of Huanchaco. Blow-outs, Buses and Booze Andrew Bruton reckons if you travel in South America you'll probably have an accident or two, but what's certain is that if it's not a fatal one, you'll absolutely love it. Amazon Boat Ride Ride a yo-yo with Justin Pushman from Iquitos, but be sure to bring out-of-date crackers and a hammock. Cock-a-Doodle Cusqueña Derek Carlisle's Peruvian host family shows him how to mark the end of the work week with a few beers and some cockfighting. Destination: Machu Picchu Derek Carlisle attempts to reach Machu Picchu the hard way after falling victim to a case of traveler's diarrhea. Butts, Blood and a Bloated Cow on a Peruvian Trek In a place of death Kari Frizzle had never felt so alive. Until, that is, she starting puking up neon green liquids. Walking the Fine Line Craig Guillot seems to run into protests everywhere he goes in Latin America, but this time one wrong move could cause all hell to break loose. Jungle Fever for Beginners Pondering the new wave of travellers who seek out extreme experiences, while living in the jungle with Peruvian Indians. The Inca Trail A four day climb to the Inca city of Machu Picchu, without the aid of a porter. Machu Picchu Making a childhood dream of visiting the ancient city in Peru come true. Unexpected Encounters on a High Altitude Tandem Tour Slow motion travel leads to many wonderful meetings in Peru and Bolivia. A Stylish French Restaurant in a tiny Peruvian village - Who would have thunk it? Fine French cuisine in the unlikeliest of places. A 'Shaman' Named Jesus An hour conversation about life and living with one of the most interesting people I've ever met. Rafting the Apurimac River The challenges of a 3 day white water rafting trip. Suriname Jungle Joy For Kate Comiskey, the jungle not only brings her some of the greatest joy she's ever experienced, it also brings her home. Uruguay Montevideo Devil Adam Carter dances with the devil after being taken under the wing of a mysterious Australian. Cops In Uruguay Discover how Erik R. Trinidad and his buddy avoided a hefty bribe for three on-the-road violations. Venezuela A Day on the River While canoeing a piranha-invested river in Venezuela, Denni Schnapp came face-to-face with the barrel of a gun. A Golden Christmas Spend Christmas in the small village of El Pauji in southeastern Venezuela. Chasing the Rainbow The Gran Sabana in Venezuela is in the grip of a latter day gold rush. Los Roques , Venezuela This lesser known archipelago is a natural paradise. X-Country Cruising Cape Horn and the Magellan Strait Sylvia Seschel enjoyed several days in ports of call around Cape Horn, including Montevideo, Ushuaia, Puerto Montt and Punta Arenas. Kite Tails from A Broad While sailing on a square rigged brigantine Tall Ship, Elain Genser managed to stage the first International TransPacific Kitemaking Competition. 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Asia Travel || Hong

Hong kong Travel Information Provided by Asia Travel Hong Kong Country and Travel Information Climate || Entryregulations || Airport facilities || Transfer information Hong Kong's new airport at Chek Lap Kok || Currency || Tipping Telephone || Gettingaround in Hong Kong Hotels Reservation in Hong Kong at upto 75% discount from published rates TourReservation in Hong Kong Hong Kong in a Nutshell ( Don't miss ) Map of Hong Kong The Fragrant Harbour ( click for postcard ) Lying at the southeastern tip of China, Hong Kong adjoins the province of Guangdong (Canton), and is just south of the tropic of Cancer. The total land area of Hong Kong is 1,078 square kilometers, comprising Hong Kong Island (77.5 square kilometers); Kowloon (45.5 square kilometer); and the New Territories , including 235 outlying islands (955 square kilometers). Today Hong Kong has become a great international trading post, a powerful manufacturing base and one of the world's largest financial centres. Population and Language The population as of 2002 was about 7.5 millions, almost 95 per cent of which is Chinese. Chinese and English are the official languages. Cantonese is the most widely spoken Chinese dialect, though Mandarin, Shanghainese and other Chinese dialects are also spoken. Many people, especially in shops, hotels, and service industries, speak English. Climate Hong Kong has a subtropical climate: Spring (March - mid-May): Temperature and humidity rising. Jackets or sweaters suggested. Average temperature: 23C (73F), humidity around 82%, sea temperature, 22.3 C (72 F) Summer (late May - mid-September): Hot and humid. Temperature may rise to 33C (91 F) with humidity up to around 90%. . Shirtsleeves, cotton clothing, a sweater for indoors and an umbrella for outside suggested Average temperature: 28C (82F), humidity 80%, sea temperature 28C (82F). Autumn (late September - early December): temperature and humidity drop. Clear sunny days. Shirtsleeves to sweaters and light jackets suggested. Average temperature: 23C (73F), humidity 72%, sea temperature 17C (63F). Winter (late December- February): Cool with low humidity. Suits, light woollens and sometimes overcoats suggested. Average temperature: 17C (62F), humidity 72%, sea temperature 17C (63F). Top Entry Regulations Visitors must hold a valid passport, endorsed where necessary for Hong Kong. Citizens of some 24 countries, including the USA, Japan, and certain Western European and South American nations are permitted one-month visa-free visits. Three-month visa-free visits are available to another 23 countries as well as all Commonwealth countries. Visitors from most countries can enter Hong Kong without a visa for periods of seven days to six months, depending on nationality. Check with any Chinese embassy or consulate for the latest status. Health Regulations Vaccination certificates are not required for yellow fever, cholera and typhoid for visitors travelling to Hong Kong. Check with your travel agent well before your departure, however, as requirements can change without notice. Customs Allowance Visitors may bring into Hong Kong free of duty: Liquor - A one-litre bottle of wine or spirits. Ivory - The importation and exportation of raw or worked ivory is governed by strict regulation. Firearms must be declared and handed into custody until departure. Top Airport Facilities A baggage storage service is available in the departure hall and the arrival hall. Other services include a bank, moneychangers, gift shops, duty-free shops, snack bars, restaurants, payphones, a police station, post office, a HK Telecom International Ltd. Office, HKTA Information Centres and private reception rooms. Airport Departure Tax Adults: HK$80; children (aged 12 years and under) free. Safety Hong Kong is generally considered a safe city by day or night. Policemen are very helpful, and those who speak English wear a red label under their shoulder badge. As in all big cities, avoid carrying large amounts of cash; traveller's cheques or credit cards are preferable. Make use of your hotel's safe-deposit boxes. Top Currency The unit of currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HK$). Notes issued by two private banks (the Hongkong and Shanghai Bank and Standard Chartered Bank) have denominations of $10, $20, $50, $100, $500, and $1000. The Bank of China issues all of the denominations except HK$10. There are silver coins for HK$1, HK$2, and HK$5, bronze coins for HK10 cents, HK20 cents and HK50 cents, and a new nickel and bronze coin for $10. Most foreign currencies and traveller's cheques are easily changed in Hong Kong, either at banks, hotels or moneychangers (check how much you will get in return before handing over your money). Top Tipping Most restaurants add a 10 per cent service charge but an additional 5 per cent may be given, where deserved. When a service charge is not automatic, 10 per cent is acceptable. Small tips may also be given to taxi drivers, bellboys, doormen and washroom attendants. Electricity The voltage in Hong Kong is 200/220 volts, 50 cycles. Most hotels provide adaptors. Water All water direct from government mains in Hong Kong satisfies the United Nations World Health Organization standards. Bottled water is widely available in hotels and supermarkets. Top Telephones Telephones in Hong Kong are advanced, economical and easy to use. Local calls are free, and many stores and restaurants offer use of a telephone free of charge to patrons. Calls from public coin phones cost HK$1. Most hotels have International Direct Dialling (IDD). Please note that some hotels charge a handling fee for local and/or international calls. You can also make long-distance calls from (IDD) Public Coin Phones and from HK Telecom International Ltd. Offices. An easy method of making calls is to purchase stored-value phonecards (HK$50, $150 and $200), which can be used in any Cardphone box. The new Hello Phonecard (HK$100, $200,$300) is a stored value card that enables the user to place calls to and from over 30 countries from a touch-tone phone. Both types of cards can be purchased at HKTA Information and Gift Centres and most convenience stores. Call 013 for information. Post Offices The main post offices are on Hong Kong Island, next to the Star Ferry and in Kowloon at 10 Middle Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. Both are open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday and 8am to 2pm on Saturday. All post offices close on Sunday and public holidays. Television There are two English-language channels. Programmes include a selection of locally produced shows as well as features from the UK, the US, and Australia. Also available is STAR TV (a satellite channel) and, in some areas, Cable TV (subscription television). Radio Fifteen radio channels are broadcast in Hong Kong. Six English-language channels provide a wide range of programmes and the BBC World Service is available 24 hours. Office and Banking Hours Most offices open from 9am to 5pm with a lunch hour from 1 pm to 2pm. On Saturday the hours are 9am to 1 pm. Some Chinese businesses open at 10am and close around 6pm or later. Major banks are open from 9am to 4.30pm on weekdays, 9am to 12.30pm on Saturday. Top Getting Around In Hong Kong Airport Transport After you have reclaimed your baggage and passed through Customs, you will find yourself in the Buffer Hall of Hong Kong International Airport where the Hong Kong Tourist Association Information Centres are located . There you can obtain free visitor publications and any other assistance you may need. Hong Kong International Airport is approximately 40 minutes' drive by car from all major hotels in Kowloon and about 50 minutes' drive via the Cross-Harbour Tunnel from all major hotels on Hong Kong Island (under normal traffic conditions). If you are making your own way to your hotel, follow the signs directing you to the Transport Terminus for taxis or use the airport coach service. If you have no local currency on arrival, change only enough at the airport to get you to your hotel. Hotel Transport Hotel bookings do not normally include transportation from the airport. However, if you have a prearranged hotel booking that includes an airport transfer, you should leave the Buffer Hall via the exit marked Hotel Transport and look for the hotel representative waiting to meet you. Taxis Taxis are numerous and readily available, and fares are low compared with those in most cities. Red taxis serve Hong Kong Island and Kowloon; green ones in the New Territories and blue taxis on Lantau Island operate at even lower rates. Many drivers speak some English but it is wise to have your destination written in Chinese characters. Rates for red taxis start at HK$16.5 on the flag fall plus HK$1.60 for every 200 metres after the first two kilometres. Waiting time is HK$1.10 per minute. Pay, in Hong Kong dollars only, the fare shown on the meter, plus any additional charge where applicable. A HK$20 surcharge applies to cross-harbour tunnel trips (includes the driver's HK$10 return toll). There is also a surcharge for rides through the Lion Rock (HK$6), Junk Bay (HK$3) and Aberdeen (HK$5) tunnels, and a HK$5 charge for each piece of luggage. Taxi drivers expect a tip, but just round up the fare to the nearest dollar. Drivers cannot pick up or drop off passengers on restricted streets, which are marked with yellow lines. New Territories taxis will pick up and drop off only in the New Territories. If you have any queries or complaints, note the taxi's number and call the 24-hour Police Hotline on 2527 7177. Buses Double-decker buses, which run from 6 AM till 3 midnight, cover most parts of the territory. Fares range from HK$1 to HK$30.60. Exact change is required. You'll find that, in general the drivers do not speak much English. Minibuses Minibuses are small passenger vans which are yellow with a red stripe. They can pick up passengers and let them off anywhere except regular bus stops and the usual restricted areas. Fares range from HK$2 to HK$7. Maxicabs Maxicabs are yellow with a green stripe. They run along specific routes and have fixed prices ranging from HK$1 to HK$8. A sign on the front indicates the destination. Pay as you get on. Trains The Kowloon-Canton Railway (KCR) is 34 kilometres long and runs from Hung Hom in Kowloon up to the border with China. Trains run every tour to 10 minutes in each direction, and vary according to the ordinary single trip to Sheung Shui, the farthest you can go without a China visa). It's a go way to visit some of the New Territories' towns and villages. The Mass Transit Railway (MTR), Hong Kong's fast, efficient and air-conditioned underground system, runs not only along the north side of Hong Kong Island, but also from Central across the harbour to divide into east and west branches in Kowloon. Stations are located by a X symbol. Fares range from HK$4 to HK$11. MTR and KCR stored-value tickets (HK$70-200) are also available. The Light Rail Transit (LRT) is a high-speed surface system linking the New Territories towns of Tuen Mun Yuen Long. The LRT runs from 5.30am to 12.30am daily. Fares range from HK$3.20 to $4.70. Ferries The Star Ferry, which has connected Hong Kong and Kowloon since 1898, runs regularly between 6.30am to 11.30pm. At HK$ 2.20 (upper deck), it must be one of the cheapest and most scenic ferry rides in the world. The crossing takes approximately eight minutes. The Hong Kong Ferry (Holdings) Company provides other regular and inexpensive services which connect Hong Kong Island to other parts of the Kowloon Peninsula and to the outlying islands. Trams ( click for postcard ) Since 1904, the tram system has run east to west along the north side of Hong Kong Island, and still provides a leisurely, grandstand view. The flat fare is HK$1.20 (exact change required) and the service operates between 6 AM and 1 AM. The Peak Tram is one of the most advanced tram systems in the world, taking just eight minutes to climb Victoria Peak. The service operates from 7am to midnight and the single fare is HK$12 (HK$19 return). The funicular railway has run since 1888 and is still the quickest way to reach the Peak. Car Hire Self-drive rental cars are not often used in Hong Kong, but chauffeur-driven cars are widely available. Hotels have their own limousines for hire. Rickshaws The only means of travel in the old days, rickshaws today are used mainly for fun rides and photo sessions. Rickshaw drivers congregate at the Star Ferry on Hong Kong Island and charge for a trip round the block or for a photo session. Negotiate the price first. Top Asia Travel || Hong kong Hotels Page

Japan Travel

Japan Travel Guide, Japanese Popular Culture, History and Japanese Etiquette Japan travel guide, information on Japan and Japanese culture. 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Ring Home # Make 100s of thousands of new friends today, FREE! Japan Zone Features: Chat Room | Quizzes | Games | E-cards Street Fashion Our latest poll: "What's the best way to spend New Year in Japan?" Thursday, 29th December 2005 Today's Japan News | Japan Weather | Japan Stocks | Currency Converter | The latest posts on our Japan Forum Join Japan Zone Friends in December - Win a DVD! - Join Now Everyone who joins Japan Zone Friends between now and December 31st will be entered to win a DVD! It's FREE to join, so why not? Welcome to the bizarre world of an American mannequin family who have recently moved toJapan, and cause quite an uproar. Fashionably hip and gut-splitting funny, this feature was first shown on the Japanese late-night show Vermillion Pleasure Night and now has a cult following. Available from ADV Films (the largest producer/distributor for Japanese anime) from December 20 on DVD. Official website Watch a classic clip, "Lady Tutor": High quality | Low quality (Quick Time) The Latest -- Japan Zone is the only site that brings you regular news and gossip in English from the Japanese entertainment world. Noriko's Fashion Choice Talento Kato Noriko (32) is to get married on New Year's Day, according to her agency yesterday. The lucky man is Wakatsuki Yoshio (43), a creative director in the fashion world. The fax announcement of the engagement caught the media by surprise as the two have only been going out since the spring, though they've been living together for the last couple of months. They have known each other for several years, and met when Kato took a break from showbusiness to study in Paris in 2000. Wakatsuki was working on the Paris Collection at the time. • Rock band Mr. Children finished up their first nationwide "dome tour" with a show last night at Tokyo Dome. They played to 45,000 fans, bringing the tour total to about 390,000. Vocalist Sakurai Kazutoshi (35), who battled with serious illness in 2003 that saw the band take a 6-month hiatus, said 2005 was the best year ever. • Kabuki actor Onoe Matsusuke died of cancer at a Tokyo hospital on Monday. He was 59. • A survey has shown that people are pretty evenly divided about whether national broadcaster NHK should take legal action against those who refuse to pay their license fee. The number of those refusing to pay has increased to over a million following a series of scandals involving NHK employees. December 28, 2005 Recent Headlines • Noriko's Fashion Choice (December 28) • All Eyes on Women Skaters (December 27) • Ryoko Polishing Her Bridal Skills (December 26) • Boyz of Summer? (December 24) More news available on our News page . (powered by Movable Type 3.15 ) Syndicate this site Content Picks Planning a trip to Japan? ROYALTY : With the marriage of Princess Sayako, the Imperial Family lost one of its members. 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France Travel Guide Overview

France Tours | France Tour Guide | iExplore.com FORBES' #1 ADVENTURE TRAVEL SITE 5 YEARS IN A ROW — TIME MAGAZINE TOP 50 Keyword Search: -- Home Trip Finder Travel Guides Community Special Offers Store My iExplore advertisement -- Home Travel Guides Europe France Overview France Travel Guide Overview Tours Where to Go Activities General Info History Weather Travel Tips Dining Shopping Visa & Health View Trips to France Europe Overview Browse France Photos France Questions and Answers Read France Journals Find a France Travel Buddy France Overview It’s hard to generalize about France – as Charles de Gaulle once remarked, ‘how could one describe a country which has 365 kinds of cheese?’ Yet there is something about this magnificent land which draws millions of francophiles back year after year for a taste of la vie française . Could it be the chic boulevards of Paris, the sparkling ski slopes of the Alps, sunlit vineyards and sun-baked beaches, a dusty game of boules , or coffee and croissants in an undiscovered village? Or perhaps it’s a tour of the majestic châteaux of the Loire that appeals, the glamorous jet-set lifestyle of the Mediterranean, or a relaxing picnic in Provence, where the air is fragrant with wild herbs and lavender? Consider also the delights of other lesser-known regions such as Franche-Comté, Gascony or Berry, deep in the green heart of France – regions firmly rooted to the land, whose sleepy villages offer visitors a chance to sample the true douceur de vivre of provincial France. There is no denying that France is a land of great contrasts, offering an endless choice of enticing destinations, a rich diversity of landscapes, cuisines, climates and peoples, with an exceptional cultural heritage. It’s easy to see why the French stay at home for their holidays and why they so felicitously call their country La Belle France . Geography France, the largest country in Europe, is bordered to the north by the English Channel ( La Manche ), the northeast by Belgium and Luxembourg, the east by Germany, Switzerland and Italy, the south by the Mediterranean (with Monaco as a coastal enclave between Nice and the Italian frontier), the southwest by Spain and Andorra, and the west by the Atlantic Ocean. The island of Corsica, southeast of Nice, is made up of two départements . The country offers a spectacular variety of scenery, from the mountain ranges of the Alps and Pyrénées to the attractive river valleys of the Loire, Rhône and Dordogne and the flatter countryside in Normandy and on the Atlantic coast. The country has some 2900km (1800 miles) of coastline. Sponsored Listings ( Add your listing ) advertisement Advertisement -- advertisement Why iExplore? About Us Advertise Site Map Privacy Policy Travel Agents Contact Us © 2005 Adventure Travel with iExplore --