Russia Travel Resources >
|
|
Russia Travel Guide - Dining and Drinking You are here: About > Travel > Eastern Europe for Visitors > Russia-Belarus-Ukraine > Russia Travel Resources > Travel Essentials - Russia > Russia Travel Guide - Dining and Drinking Travel Go Eastern Europe Essentials Best of Eastern Europe Map of Central/Eastern Europe Photo Gallery Country Profiles Discount Travel Websites Articles & Resources Planning Your Trip Ways to Travel What to Do in East Europe Maps for Eastern Europe Czech-SlovakTravel Hungary Travel Poland Travel Russia-Belarus-Ukraine Romania-Moldova Travel Baltic Travel Balkan Travel Culture and Holidays Photo Galleries East Europe Travel and Language Books Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Eastern Europe for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search Eastern Europe for Visitors Stay up to date! Email to a friend Print this page Suggested Reading All Travel Guides Russia Travel Guide Profile of Russia Most Popular First Christmas Tree Europe map Best of Eastern Europe Croatia Naturism and Nudism Discount Travel Websites What's Hot Krakow Photo Gallery Profiles of Eastern Europe Moscow City Profile Czech Republic Photo Gallery - Charles Bridge and castle Sofia's Religous Buildings Related Topics Hotels / Resorts / Inns European History Architecture Air Travel Europe for Visitors Dining and Drinking - Russia From Apply Now , Your Guide to Eastern Europe for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Russia Travel Guide One of the pleasures of travel is reveling in the food and drink of the local cuisine. Russia has plenty to offer in this respect, whether you opt for traditional Russian fare or meals representative of other CIS countries.
What Not to Eat
You can eat well in Russia at any budget. However, because some people get sick when they travel and eat unaccustomed food, this situation can happen in Russia also. So, because you don't want to spend time being miserable in your hotel room from a stomach problem, it's wise to be careful, just to be on the safe side. Some suggestions:
Don't drink tap water. Drink only bottled water. It comes with or without gas. When you order bottled water at restaurants, make sure the waiter brings you an unsealed bottle (not an open bottle that could have been filled with tap water). Of course, if you order water with gas, you won't have this possibility.
Brush your teeth with bottled water, not tap water.
Avoid salad bars (vegetables washed with tap water).
If you buy fruit, wash it with bottled water, not tap water. You get the picture with tap water.
If you order a coffee or tea, be aware you might be drinking tap water, but it's boiled.
Avoid food from sidewalk stands.
Enjoy all thoroughly cooked food.
I should note that I have broken all the suggestions above throughout Eastern Europe and not suffered consequences. I love going to cafes for coffee and eating ice cream from sidewalk vendors. But again, you may opt for the safest route than take a chance spending your precious visit too sick to enjoy it.
Restaurants
Moscow and St. Petersburg have a proliferation of well-known chains, including McDonald's, KFC, Pizza Hut, Burger King and TGI Fridays. But try to sample other food, as both Moscow and St. Petersburg can offer so much more. Check the English language newspapers such as the Moscow Times for listings of restaurants.
For restaurants in Moscow and St. Petersburg, also see these lists:
List of all types of restaurants in Moscow, from the Moscow City website
St. Petersburg restaurants Almost 500 restaurants listed.
Fodor's picks for Moscow restaurants
Fodor's picks for St. Peterburg's restaurants
Cuisine
Russian cuisine does wonderful things with meat, cabbage, potatoes, and dough (both bread and pastry). Well-known dishes include :
borsch (beet soup)
pelmeni (boiled dough pockets filled with meat)
beef roll (finely chopped meat and spices rolled in fine pastry)
chicken kiev
draniki (potato pancakes)
golubtsy (cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice, covered in a tomato broth)
There are many other dishes, with beef, pork, poultry and fish, as well as potato salad, pickled vegetables, mushrooms, caviar, and wonderful dark bread.
Don't forget dessert: bliny, ponchiki (doughnuts), kulich (rum cake) and ice cream.
Payment
In top restaurants you will likely be able to pay with credit cards. At smaller cafes and restaurants, you will probably have to pay with rubles.
Drinking in Russia
We'll get to the vodka later but first, know that Russians love to drink tea (chai). With samovars boiling away in offices and train compartments and lots of other places too, Russians drink tea all day long.
Vodka is a popular drink, and comes plain but also flavored: lemon, cranberry, herbs. It's hard to keep up with a Russian drinker so you may not want to try.
Beer (pivo) is also popular. Russian brands include Tinkov pilsner , Baltika, Stepan Rizan, Nevskoye, Klinskoye, and Tolstiyak. A low-alcohol beer is called kvas.
Russia also produces wine, with three million acres of vineyards. Russian wines aren't for everyone, as they can tend to have concentrated fruity flavors and some are rather sweet. While you're in Russia, you may want to try the wine of former Soviet republics, such as Moldova, Georgia and Ukraine. Popular white wines are the Anapa Riesling, Tsinandali, and Gourdzhuani. Reds are Saperavi and Mukuzani.
Tipping
Tipping has not yet become an expected norm in restaurants around Russia, although at better restaurants and cafes, you will find that patrons will do so. However, a normal rate has not been really established yet, so many people leave between five and ten percent, or more depending on the service. At not so fancy restaurants or cafes, you can round up the bill. Some restaurants will add service to your bill, so check first before you tip, and feel free not to tip at all if you believe the service doesn't deserve it. If there is a cloakroom where you need to leave your coat, there may be a sign telling you the amount to release your belongings. Otherwise, leave a few rubles or a dollar. Russia Travel Guide Index
Profile of Russia
City Profile: Moscow
City Profile: St. Petersburg
Before You Go
Need to Know
Money Matters
Intercity Travel
City Transit
Driving
Health and Safety
Lodging
Dining and Drinking
Communications
Shopping
Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Krakow Photo Gallery Profiles of Eastern Europe Moscow City Profile Czech Republic Photo Gallery - Charles Bridge and castle Sofia's Religous Buildings
London vacation rental London
London Accommodation - Vacation Rentals in London London Accommodation - Vacation Rentals London - We can be found here! London Accommodation - Vacation Rentals in London Search for London Accommodation Or How to reserve a London vacation rental London accommodation and vacation rentals london. We specialize in offering private holiday apartments and holiday flats. To be in a European city in aprivate residence offers an opportunity to experience accommodations that are filled with personal charm, fine antiques, and wonderful art -all in outstanding locations. About Us Search for London accommodation vacation rentals london Frequently Asked Questions Sample Itinerary for those wanting to travel and rent We offer specially selected London vacation rentals - apartments, houses, and cottages to holiday travelers and to business people. We firmly believe thatprivate holiday flats are the superior alternative to sterile and oftenexorbitantly expensive hotel rooms when looking for accommodation in London . EXPERIENCE AND RELIABILITY are the keys to our success. The owners ofthis company began working with private vacation rentals in 1985 when theydecided to rent their own properties. As the demandfor these flats grew, friends began to offer their properties for rent through our company. Sixteen years and thousands of reservations laterwe continue to experience rapid growth and now manage over 300 privateflats. This is due to the teamwork between great owners, excellentclientele, and a staff that cares and works hard to organize successfulstays for our clients. A UNIQUE COMPANY, We have well over twenty-five years experience intravel planning, property management, and working with groupstraveling to Europe. Because we have offices in the United States aswell as in various cities in Europe, you are assured the bestcoordination possible. We work together from a very extensive anddetailed database that allows staff, owners, and clients to view andedit various details concerning availability and reservation details. London Accommodation and Vacation Rentals Links of Interest Municipal Government City Government UK public sector information on the Internet The Housing Corporation Click For More info for renters rented accomodation Need a place to stay while traveling? holiday apartments holiday flats
European Vacation (1985) Starring:
Amazon.com: National Lampoon's European Vacation: DVD: Chevy Chase,Beverly D'Angelo,Dana Hill,Jason Lively,John Astin,Sheila Kennedy,Paul Bartel,Cynthia Szigeti,Malcolm Danare,Kevi Kendall,Tricia Lange,William Zabka,Wendy Goldman,Angus MacKay,Julie Wooldridge,Peter Hugo,Jeannette Charles,Derek Deadman,Mel Smith,Gwen Nelson,Amy Heckerling Your Store DVD See All 32 Product Categories Your Account | Cart | Wish List | Help | Advanced Search | Browse Genres | Top Sellers | New & Future Releases | Television Central | Life & Learning | DVD Essentials | Blowout DVDs | Movie Showtimes | Used DVDs Search Amazon.com DVD Web Search Join Amazon Prime and ship Two-Day for free and Overnight for $3.99. Already a member? Sign in . DVD Information Explore this item buying info editorial reviews customer reviews cast and crew fun facts Listmania! 25 Awesome Offbeat Comedies : A list by K. Ellis "kjjcellis" Add your List Ready to buy? Sign in to turn on 1-Click ordering. A9.com users save 1.57% on Amazon. Learn how . MORE BUYING CHOICES 83 used & new from $7.10 Have one to sell? National Lampoon's European Vacation (1985) Starring: Chevy Chase , Beverly D'Angelo Director: Amy Heckerling Rating: See larger image Share your own customer images List Price: $14.98 Price: $9.99 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. See details You Save: $4.99 (33%) Availability: Usually ships within 1 to 2 days. Ships from and sold by Amazon.com. 83 used & new available from $7.10 Edition: Other Versions and Languages Other Versions (DVD) List Price Price Other Offers: DVD Ultimate Vacation Collection (Vacation / European Vacation / Christmas Vacation / Vegas Vacation) $52.98 $39.99 61 used & new from $39.28 Other Versions (VHS Tape) VHS Tape National Lampoon European Vacation $9.98 46 used & new from $0.97 VHS Tape Pee-Wee's Big Adventure $14.99 Better Together Buy this DVD with National Lampoon's Vacation (20th Anniversary... DVD ~ Dana Barron today! Total List Price: $34.96 Buy Together Today: $17.96 Customers who bought this DVD also bought National Lampoon's Vacation (20th Anniversary Special Edition) DVD ~ Dana Barron Vegas Vacation (Widescreen Edition) DVD ~ Chevy Chase National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (Special Edition) DVD ~ Chevy Chase Funny Farm DVD ~ Chevy Chase Explore Similar Items : in DVD Storyline Genres: Comedy Tagline: For over two thousand years, Europe has survived many great disasters. Now for the real test. Chevy Chase & his family are coming from America! Plot Outline: The Griswalds win a vacation tour across Europe where the usual havoc ensues. Plot Synopsis: The Griswalds win a vacation to Europe on a game show, and thus pack their bags for the continent. They do their best to catch the flavor of Europe, but they just don't know how to be be good tourists. Besides, they have trouble taking holidays in countries where they CAN speak the language... Plot Keywords: Urban Legend | Road | Stonehenge | Eiffel Tower Paris | Sequel | Vacation | Paris France | Cyclist | Game Show | Traffic Circle | National Lampoon Series | (Show all 37 plot keywords recommended by customers) Product Details Actors: Chevy Chase , Beverly D'Angelo , Dana Hill , Jason Lively , John Astin , See more Directors: Amy Heckerling Format: Closed-captioned, Color, Subtitled, Widescreen, Ntsc, Widescreen Anamorphic Region: Region 1 ( U.S. and Canada only. Read more about DVD formats. ) Aspect Ratio: 1.85:1 Number of discs: 1 Rated: Studio: Warner Home Video DVD Release Date: April 2, 2002 Run Time: 94 minutes Average Customer Review: Based on 57 Reviews DVD Features: Available Subtitles: English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Georgian, Thai, Chinese Available Audio Tracks: English (Dolby Digital 2.0), French (Dolby Digital 2.0) Commentary by: Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo (Unknown Format) Cast film highlights From IMDb: Quotes & Trivia ASIN: B00005Y71D Amazon.com Sales Rank: #3,042 in DVD Theatrical Release Information US Theatrical Release Date: July 26, 1985 MPAA: Production Company: Warner Bros. USA Box Office: $49 Million Filming Locations: Bressanone, Bolzano, Trentino - Alto Adige, Italy| London, England, UK| Paris, France| Rome, Lazio, Italy Editorial Reviews Amazon.com After winning a tour package in a game show, the bickering Griswald family carve a trail of destruction through England (where they knock over Stonehenge), France, Germany, and Italy. Somehow Ellen (Bevery D'Angelo), the mom, gets kidnapped by gangsters, leading to a car chase that reunites the family, despite their differences. It's hard to believe that National Lampoon's European Vacation is only the second of the Vacation movies; it has the exhausted pallor of the last of a long series of sequels, drained of all zest or original ideas. The charmless smirk of Chevy Chase, mechanical in its idiocy, hangs over European Vacation like a death mask. It's hard to believe that this hack was once the funny and sexy hero of Foul Play . D'Angelo keeps her chin up and gives the movie whatever class it may have; she deserves better. --Bret Fetzer Product Description: The Griswalds are on vacation again when they win a deluxe tour of the old world and take on the European continent -- the continent loses. Customers who viewed this DVD also viewed Spies Like Us DVD ~ Chevy Chase Caddyshack DVD ~ Chevy Chase The Great Outdoors DVD ~ Dan Aykroyd National Lampoon's Animal House (Widescreen Double Secret Probation Edition) DVD ~ John Belushi Explore Similar Items : in DVD , in Video , and in Music Spotlight Reviews Write an online review and share your thoughts with other customers. 18 of 18 people found the following review helpful: NOT the original theatrical version! , September 19, 2003 Reviewer: T. D. Charlton "alltheothernamesaretaken" (CA United States) - See all my reviews This is NOT the original version!!! I'm very disappointed that Amazon.com didn't disclose this information. Scenes are missing and parts are dubbed over. Funny parts are still funny but it's just not the same. I feel duped. Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) 3 of 4 people found the following review helpful: ANOTHER FUN TRIP!!!! , September 21, 2004 Reviewer: A. R SCOTT "Alesha Scott" (Houston, Texas) - See all my reviews YEP! THIS IS ANOTHER TRIP WITH THE GRISWOLDS. I LIKE THIS MOVIE IT IS FUNNY I LIKED IT. THE GRISWOLDS DECIDED TO GO TO EUROPE AND THEY HAVE ANOTHER ADVENTUROUS AND HILARIOUS TRIP. I THOUGHT THIS WAS A FUNNY MOVIE. I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS MOVIE TO ANYONE WHO LIKES THE VACATION MOVIES OR CHEVY CHASE. I THOUGHT THIS ONE WAS JUST AS FUNNY AS THE FIRST ONE AND STILL DELIVERS A LOT OF FUN AND A LOT OF LAUGHS. Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) Customer Reviews Average Customer Review: Write an online review and share your thoughts with other customers. 0 of 3 people found the following review helpful: great , September 13, 2005 Reviewer: Stacy Wagner - See all my reviews the transaction itself was very quick and the product came to me in new perfect condition. Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) 2 of 2 people found the following review helpful: Not on par with the original, but pretty close! , April 19, 2005 Reviewer: Britt Gillette "www.thedvdreport.com" (Chesapeake, VA USA) - See all my reviews Chevy Chase and Beverly D'Angelo return as Clark and Ellen Griswold in National Lampoon's European Vacation, sequel to the original Vacation movie and precursor to the holiday classic Christmas Vacation. Like the other films, this edition contains different cast members to play the roles of Griswold children Audrey (Dana Hill) and Rusty (Jason Lively). The only Vacation movie that doesn't feature Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid), European Vacation is nevertheless one hilarious movie. It's an old school comedy like they just don't make anymore... When the Griswold family appears on the hit TV game show, Pig In A Poke, they inadvertently beat a superior family and win an all-expenses paid trip to Europe. As usual, Clark is giddy about the wonderful trip of family bonding which he dreams his family will enjoy. But Audrey is mortified at the prospect of leaving her boyfriend behind. Nevertheless, the Griswolds hop on a plane bound for Europe. Right off the bat, Clark's dream vacation begins to experience shortcomings. The first hotel the family stays in is a half-star dump with a community bathroom, and Clark gets stuck on a circular roadway where he endlessly passes by Big Ben and Parliament. A couple of brilliant guest appearances are turned in by Eric Idle (of Monty Python fame) who plays the role of a zealously friendly biker. In one of the funniest scenes in the film, Clark smashes into the biker, who apologizes to Clark while hobbling away from the wreck and who springs a bloody leak from his wrist that he passes off as a mere "flesh wound". When Clark hits another motorist, he and the family are given the man's bumper as a souvenir to take home to America. As the Griswold clan makes their way across mainland Europe, especially in France and Germany, they encounter various pitfalls and cultural misunderstandings. Rusty causes a dog to jump to its death from the heights of the Eiffel Tower, and Clark instigates a riot in a small Bavarian township. One of the more memorable one-liners from the film is when Audrey tells Clark that in Germany "sex" means "six," so while searching for his relatives who live in apartment six, he greets some surprised residents with the tagline, "Hello, my family and I are looking for sex!" When the stress becomes unbearable, the vacation inevitably drives each of the family members in a different direction, but everyone is quickly brought back together when Ellen is kidnapped by a pair of petty criminals who want to get their hands on the family vacation fund. Clark must come to the rescue and save, not only his wife, but the family's entire vacation experience as well... A great comedy that contributes to the overall quality of the National Lampoon's Vacation films, European Vacation is a fun, family-oriented film. Those who enjoyed the exploits of Clark Griswold in the more recent Christmas Vacation or Vegas Vacation films will find it well worth their while to go back see this movie which many people have forgotten about. This is an utterly hilarious film in its own right, and clearly earns its designation as a must-see film... The DVD Report Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) Great Comedy , April 17, 2005 Reviewer: John Livermore "buster_trader" (Bethesda, MD, USA) - See all my reviews Not as good as "... Vegas Vacation" and "... Vacation" but it is still very good! Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) 2 of 3 people found the following review helpful: just as side splitting as N. L. Vacation , February 25, 2005 Reviewer: DSG "DSG" (Franklin, Wisconsin) - See all my reviews don't have much to say about this one. was lauging too hard at this one. it's just such a hilarious follow up to National Lampoon's Vacation. see this movie if you like Chevy Chase. so glad I have this on dvd. it too will be watched time and time again Was this review helpful to you? ( Report this ) See all 57 customer reviews... Listmania! Favorite Movies Of All Time!! : by M. D. James Own every National Lampoon DVD... : by Tom Benton 25 Awesome Offbeat Comedies : by K. Ellis "kjjcellis" So You'd Like to... Laugh So Hard You'll Cry : by Egon P. Singerman , Gigantic Movie Buff enjoy funny books and movies : by Humor Book Addict , avid viewer and reader Buy My Collection of Great 80's Flicks: Part 2 : by 80's Girl , A movie lover Fun Facts from IMDb.com: Nominations Click here to see more Nominations Young Artist Awards: Young Artist Award for Best Starring Performance by a Young Actor - Motion Picture Trivia Click here to see more Trivia On their first day in Paris, Clark wears a sweatshirt from "Walley World", the Griswolds' destination in the first film, Vacation. It is revealed in the intro, on his passport, that Clark's middle name is Wilhelm. Goofs Click here to see more Goofs In this movie, the family name is spelled Griswald. In other Vacation movies, it is spelled Griswold. Movie Connections Click here to see more Movie Connections Follows: Vacation Followed by: Christmas Vacation Alternate Versions Click here to see more Alternate Versions Some alternate takes of scenes were filmed especially for television, toning down the raunchy nature. For example, the female aerobic dancers in the television version are wearing tops. Another alternate take was of Rusty and the girl he meets in Germany. In the theatrical/video version, as they kiss, she unbuttons her uniform and Rusty stares at her breasts which we see. The alternate was her unbuttoning it and having a bra on. This take is on all television versions of the film today. When aired on TV, the scene where the Griswalds leave the house of people they thought were Helga and Fritz, Helga's reply (to Fritz's question of who the hell they were) of 'Beats the shit out of me' was changed to 'Damned if I know.' In the more recent TV airings, the original phrase was there with the word 'shit' blured on the subtitle. In the scene where Ellen sees the billboard with her picture on it advertising the stolen homemade porno flick, there are three different versions of the subtitles that explain the title. One is "The Wet Hot Wife," which appeared on the laserdisc version. Another was "The Slut in the Showers," which I believe appeared on the televised version. And the final was "The Whore in the Hot Tub," which appeared on one of the VHS incarnations. When aired on TV, Clark's song "The Sound of Griswald" was altered because one line of the song that goes: "This should spin around for a very long time" sounds too much like "This shit's been around for a very long time." When Clark's car suffers the blowout during the chase, he yells out the f-word. The television and VHS version dubs this to say "Darn it all!" The recent 2003 version seen on the Encore! network also has this dub, which is very evident. Quotes Click here to see more Quotes Stewardess : Can I get you anything to drink? Clark Griswold : Honey? I guess I'll have a Coke. Stewardess : Do you want that in the can? Clark Griswold : No, I'll have it right here. [in Germany, Clark peers down at a village in the hills and tears come to his eyes] Clark Griswold : There it is, kids, my motherland. Rusty Griswold : Dad, Grandma is from Chicago. Clark Griswold : Shut up, Russ. For more information about "National Lampoon's European Vacation" visit the Internet Movie Database (IMDb) Look for similar items by category Browse similar items in: DVD > Actors & Actresses > ( A ) > Astin, John DVD > Actors & Actresses > ( B ) > Bartel, Paul DVD > Actors & Actresses > ( C ) > Chase, Chevy DVD > Actors & Actresses > ( D ) > Dangelo, Beverly DVD > Actors & Actresses > ( H ) > Hill, Dana DVD > Actors & Actresses > ( L ) > Lively, Jason DVD > Actors & Actresses > ( S ) > Smith, Mel DVD > Actors & Actresses > ( Z ) > Zabka, William DVD > Directors > ( H ) > Heckerling, Amy DVD > Genres > Comedy > By Theme > Nothing Goes Right DVD > Genres > Comedy > By Theme > Vacations DVD > Genres > Comedy > Comedy Stars > Chevy Chase DVD > Genres > Comedy > General DVD > Genres > Comedy > Parody & Spoof > General DVD > Genres > Comedy > Slapstick DVD > Genres > Horror > General Suggestion Box Your comments can help make our site better for everyone. If you've found something incorrect, broken, or frustrating on this page, let us know so that we can improve it. Please note that we are unable to respond directly to suggestions made via this form. If you need help with an order, please contact Customer Service . Please mark as many of the following boxes that apply: Product information is missing important details. Product information is incorrect. Propose corrections using our Online Catalog Update Form . The page contains typographical errors. The page takes too long to load. The page has a software bug in it. Content violates Amazon.com's policy on offensive language . Product offered violates Amazon.com's policy on items that can be listed for sale. Comments or Examples: Examples: Missing information such as dimensions and model number, typos, inaccuracies, etc. Where's My Stuff? • Track your recent orders . • View or change your orders in Your Account . Shipping & Returns • See our shipping rates & policies . • Return an item (here's our Returns Policy ). Need Help? • Forgot your password? Click here . • Redeem or buy a gift certificate. • Visit our Help department . Search Amazon.com Books Popular Music Music Downloads Classical Music DVD VHS Apparel Yellow Pages Movie Showtimes Toys Baby Computers Video Games Electronics Camera & Photo Software Tools & Hardware Office Products Magazines Sports & Outdoors Outdoor Living Kitchen Jewelry & Watches Beauty Gourmet Food Musical Instruments Health/Personal Care Pet Supplies Travel Cell Phones & Service Outlet Auctions zShops Everything Else Automotive for Amazon.com Home | Directory of All Stores Our International Sites: Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | Japan | France | China Help | Shopping Cart | Your Account | Sell Items | 1-Click Settings Investor Relations | Press Room | Careers Conditions of Use | Privacy Notice © 1996-2005, Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates
Asia Travel || Cambodia
COUNTRY AND TRAVEL INFORMATION OF CAMBODIA - ASIA TRAVEL Cambodia Travel Information Map of Cambodia Facts about Cambodia || Tour Packages || Food || Phnom Penh || Angkor Wat and Siemreap Angkor Wat - Angkor Thom || Currency || Climate || Geography || Langauges || Religion Angkor Wat - Bayon || How to reach || Visa FACTS ABOUT CAMBODIA The Kingdom of Cambodia is an independent country with a population of more than 7 million people. With a surface area of 181,035 sq. km and once a French colony, is the least known Indochinese country. Cambodia has a distinct geographical personality: it is a wide basin surrounded by highlands. In this basin the farmer has created a simple life - an original civilization and philosophy of mildness. After many years of war, people rediscovered the meaning of "PEACE" They started to rebuild and reconstruct in all fields. Cambodia is divided into 20 provinces and rich in resources, forests, rubber, gems, fish and has a big potential in tourism. FACTS ABOUT THE COUNTRY Khmers have called their country Kampuchea (usually rendered Kambuja), since the l6th century. The name is derived from the word kambu-ja, meaning those born of Kambu (a figure of Indian mythology), which was first used to refer to the people of Cambodia in the 10th century. The Portuguese Cambodia and French Cambodge from which the English name Cambodia is derived, are adaptations of " Kampuja". It was the Khmer Rouge who insisted that the outside world use the name Kampuchea. Changing the country's official English name back to Cambodia (which has been used by the US State Department all along) was intended as a symbolic move to distance the present government in Phnom Penh from the bitter connotations of the name Kampuchea, which westerners and overseas Khmer alike associate with the murderous Khmer Rouge regime. As a result of the United Nations sponsored and enforced election in May, 1993, the Kingdom of Cambodia is now safe to travel and tourism has once again become possible. Indeed, the country and Phnom Penh in partucular is undergoing something of a renaissance. Often overshadowed by the traumatic events of its recent past, Cambodia as home of the Khmer culture remains one of the most important and exotic countries in South East Asia. FOOD Cambodian food is closely related to the cuisines of neighbouring Thailand and Laos, and to a lesser extent, Vietnam, but there are some distinct local dishes. In the growing number of restaurants in Phnom Penh and Siemreap, you will find excellent Chinese and Vietnamese dishes but it is the local dishes which are often the best prepared and most interesting. Rice is the principal staple and and Battanbang Region is the country's rice bowl. Most Cambodian dishes are cooked in a wok known locally as a chnang khteak. PHNOM PENH The country's capital Phnom Penh is renowned for its beauty, particularly the area surrounding the Royal Palace where magificent Khmer towers share the boulevard with coloured French villas overlooking the banks of the Tonle Sap river. ANGKOR WAT AND SIEMREAP The glorious and world-famous Angkor Wat situates in Siemreap Province and is just a few kilometers from the town. One can reach Siemreap by taking daily direct flight from Phnom Penh. Temples of Angkor were built between 7th and 11th century when Khmer civilazation was at its height of its extraordinary creativity. Angkor Wat is the cultural home of the Khmer people and one of the ancient wonders of the world. Its magnificent architecture was the evidence of the Khmer's strong belief in religions - Hinduism and Buddhism. First discovered by Western archeologists in the late 19th century, the lost city of Angkor is just re-opening to the exploration to the modern civilization. ANGKOR WAT - ANGKOR THOM The fortified city of Angkor Thom, some 10 sq km in extent, was built in its present form by Angkor's greatest builder, Jayavarman 7 (reigned 1181 to 1201), who came to power just after the disastrous sacking by the Chams of the previous Khmer capital, is enclosed by a square wall eight metres high and 12 km in length and encircled by a moat 100 meters wide, said to have been inhabited by fierce crocodiles. The city has five monumental gates, one in the north, west and south walls and two in the east wall. The gates, which are 20 metres in height, are decorated on either side of the passageway with stone elephant trunks and crowned by four gargantuan faces of the bodhisatva Avalokitesvara. CURRENCY The unit is the RIELS. Riel demoninations are 100, 200 and 500. Exchange rates are subject to fluctuation. US$ are generally accepted thoughout the country. In Phnom Penh, some credit cards can be used and limited services and purchasing and cashing traveller cheques. CLIMATE Cambodia lies in a tropical zone between 10 and 14 degree of latitude north the equator. The temperature is fairly uniform throughout the year and averages 25 degree centigrade (77 degree fahrenheit). The relative humidity is higher at night and usually in excess of 90 percent, during the day the average humidity is 80 percent. GEOGRAPHY The Cambodia has an area of about 181,305 squares kilometres, bordered to the north by Thailand and Laos, to the east and the south by Vietnam, to the west by the gulf of Cambodia. LANGUAGES The Cambodian language is Khmer, which is inherited itself - and advanced in education with application of Indic languages Pali and Sangkrit from India. Some technical languages are borrowed from French. However, English is commonly communicated in hotels and business compounds at present days. RELIGION The majority of the people of Cambodia are followers of Thervada and Hinayana school of Buddhism which was introduced to Cambodia between the 13th and 14 centuries and was the state religion until 1975. ANGKOR WAT - BAYON The temples of Angkor Thom, is located in the city's geographic centre. The 50-tower temples is an awesome sight. At first glances, the complex seems a shapeless mass of stone. Suddenly, further scrutiny reveals a face, enigmatic and silent, watching with half-closed eyes. Soon, another face is made out, and another, and still yet another, until they are all round silent, heavy and impressive, staring from a primitive and remote time. Every visitors to Angkor Wat has to pay entrance fees. HOW TO REACH CAMBODIA & ANGKOR WAT There are direct flights to the capital of Phnom Penh from Bangkok, Hanoi, Hochiminh City, Hong Kong, Kuahlupur, Singapore and Vientiane. From Phnom Penh, one can take direct flights to Siemreap (Angkor), which are now operates on daily basis. Because of its vast architectures and plentiful of myths and informations, visiting of the great Angkor Wat with a knowlegable and well-trained guide is highly recommended and fun. You can enjoy traveling to Angkor Wat . CAMBODIA VISA A fifteen-day tourist visa can be obtained at US$ 20 upon arrival at Pochentong Airport. Visitors should bring along at least 4 photos, and sign the visa applications form upon arrival. Visa extensions are possible through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Office of Immigration. Asia Travel || Cambodia Page
Disney Vacation
Orlando Vacation .com | Hotels | Homes Rental | Packages | Discount | Cheap Learn more about our guarantee Search Hotels Check In Date: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 2005 2006 2007 Nights: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Best Deals on 3, 4, & 5 Star Orlando Hotels & Resorts Sheraton World Resort 5 miles to Disney Our Price: $69* Competitors: $88 Hawthorn Suites Free Breakfast! Our Price: $69 * Competitors: $82 Omni ChampionsGate 5 Star Resort! Our Price: $110 * Competitors: $199 Best Western Inside Walt Disney World Inside Disney World Our Price: $72* Competitors: $94 Holiday Inn Maingate Nikki Bird Resort 39 seconds to Disney Our Price: $45 * Competitors: $61 Hilton Inside Walt Disney World Inside Disney World Our Price: $97 * Competitors: $210 Featured Vacation Homes and Rentals Windsor Palms/Hills Venetian Bay Resort Terra Verde Resort 3 Miles from Disney World! Our Price: $89 Others: $105 5 Minutes from Disney World! Our Price: $89 Others: $125 5 Minutes from Disney World! Our Price: $79 Others: $95 HOT DEALS THEME PARK INFORMATION CENTER #1 Stay with us 5 nights and receive $10 Free Disney Bucks! Click here for details. #2 Stay at the Omni ChampionsGate Resort and receive FREE Breakfast! Click here for details. #3 FREE Ticket delivery to Radisson Worldgate Resort or Sheraton World Resort! Click here for details. Buy Vacation Packages You are about to embark on a wonderful fantasy vacation where age has no boundary and imagination is plentiful. Enjoy all that Walt Disney World has to offer, from great food, fun rides, and family memories. Read More Buy Vacation Packages With more than 40 incredible rides, shows, movie sets and attractions, The No. 1 Movie Studio and Theme Park in the World is the only place on earth where you can Ride the Movies! Read More Buy Vacation Packages If you have never been to Sea World you are in for a real treat, and it is definitely a must-see when visiting Orlando. What makes Sea World so great is that there are very few rides at the park, which means you have no lines to wait in. Read More ORLANDO TRIP TOOLS Driving Directions Map out each day of your vacation Budget Plan Let us help you manage your funds while in Orlando Money Saving Tips Detailed suggestions on planning your Orlando vacation on your budget Local Restaurants Your guide to family fun and fine dining in the greater Orlando area VACATION ARTICLES Our Latest Articles Transit at the Walt Disney World Resort Explanation of Disney World Tickets Get the Most Out of Your FastPass Article Archives Browse our previous articles EVENTS IN ORLANDO COUPON OFFERS 12/02/2005 Christmas Gospel Musical, Soulful Noel 12/04/2005 Eola Sunday Market 12/10/2005 Holiday tree sale 12/11/2005 Central Florida Folk, inc. at Langford 12/14/2005 Spherical Wonderland 12/30/2005 Orlando Citrus Parade 1st Thursday of Every Month Orlando Museum of Art's 1st Thursdays every Saturday Downtown Farmer's Market Read More #1 Hotel Coupons #2 Vacation Packages Coupons #3 Vacation Home Coupons CONTACT US Toll Free: 1-800-641-4008 Fax: 1-407-228-6447 Email: info@orlandovacation.com About Orlando Vacation Affiliate Program Affordable Travel of Orlando Lowest Price Guarantee We are one of the largest Orlando based travel companies in the city, and by having a large presence in the market place we guarantee you the lowest prices on our hotels and vacation homes. Our Lowest Price Guarantee: "If you find a lower price at any of our properties within 72 hours of booking, we will beat their price or allow you to cancel your reservation with no penalty". Booking Policy: We only ask for a $50 refundable deposit to guarantee your reservation, and we will charge your remaining balance on the hotel room 10 days prior to your arrival. If you cancel your reservation for any reason before 10 days of your arrival we will refund your deposit back to you minus a $10 processing fee. Cancellations inside 10 days will carry a 1 night charge, but the rest your money will be cheerfully refunded. "We want to Earn your business with great prices and superior customer service." Please give us a call today: 1-800-641-4008 Home About Contact Travel Resources Hotels Vacation Homes Packages Walt Disney World SeaWorld Universal Studios Car Rentals Golf Shopping UP TO THE MINUTE NEWS FEED ON ALL THINGS ORLANDO CNL Hotels & Resorts Announces Agreement to Sell Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort By One of Its Partnerships for (Hospitality Net) ORLANDO, Fla., CNL Hotels & Resorts, Inc., the nation's second largest hotel real estate investment trust (REIT), announced today that the partnership in which it has a 49 percent interest has entered into an agreement with an affiliate of Whitehall Street Global Real Estate Limited Partnership 2005 to sell 100 percent of the 1,310-room Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort in Oahu for approximately 9 The Orlando Sentinel, Fla., tourism column (The Orlando Sentinel, Fla.) (Hotel Online) By Jerry W. Jackson and Beth Kassab, The Orlando Sentinel, Fla. Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News Oct. 17--AFRICAN-THEMED HOTEL SWEETENS SUITES: The former Sheraton Safari Hotel has completed more than million in renovations, and now has a new name -- along with 90 upgraded suites, each with a sleeping room, sitting room and kitchenette. CNL Hotels & Resorts selling Waikiki Beach Marriott (Orlando Business Journal) CNL Hotels & Resorts Inc. says it and an undisclosed partner are selling the Waikiki Beach Marriott in Hawaii for approximately 9 million. 2006 Orlando Vacation | Tickets powered by EBG | As to Disney artwork, logos & properties: Disney * Our lowest available price throughout the year. Wholesale prices tend to fluctuate often, please search for dates regularly for our most current discount rates. Privacy Policy - orlando vacation