Austria Travel: Austria Travel

Travel: Austria Travel Notes -- Austrian Culture Car Hire Cruises Flights Hotels Tours Vacations About Travel Notes™ Destinations Budget Travel Feedback Search Travel Forums Travel Writers Africa Asia Caribbean Europe Middle East North America South America Oceania Austria Travel: Austria Travel Notes -- Austrian Culture Discover Austria's Culture . Round The World Flights - Free TravelNotes e-mail Decline and Fall of The Habsburg Empire Austria Index AustrianCities Austrian Culture Austrian Hotels Austrian News Austrian Regions Austrian Tourism Austrian Tours Kaffehauskultur (in German) LocalCurrency Convert your currency into euro . Food Travel Fiction Health Kids Bios Humor Mags Software Gifts Tech Business Other Your Ad Here Travel Notes Mailing List Austria Hotel City Search : Discover Austria's Culture Austria's illustrious history leaves a lot of memories behind. Uncover the delights of former glory. Deutsch Akademie : German language courses and accommodation in Vienna. Learn the German language rapidly with these intensive classes and experience the Austrian culture while you're at it. Ars Electronica Center : Tagged Museum of the Future, the Ars Electronica Center is a unique project which facilitates and implements the harmonious collaboration of art, technology and society. Brahms Born in Hamburg in 1833, Brahms first went to Vienna in 1862 and discovered Mrzzuschlag in 1884, where he started work on his Symphony No.4. Concerts are held at the museum throughout the year. Brahms Museum : Wienerstrae 4, Mrzzuschlag, Steiermark. Opening hours : 1st May to 30th September: Daily from 10:00 - 12:00 and 14:00 - 18:00. 1st October to 30th April: Daily from 10:00 - 12:00 and 14:00 - 16:00. Bregenzer Festspiele : The Bregenz Festival takes place on a floating stage in Lake Constance -- Bodensee. In the last few years, the Bregenz Festival has developed into one of the most important European cultural events. A highly sophisticated program and unique productions, combine with the breathtaking landscape to draw around 200,000 visitors to Lake Constance annually. Carnuntum : The Archaeological Park Carnuntum, approximately 40 kms east of Vienna, comprises the towns of Petronell-Carnuntum and Bad Deutsch-Altenburg and holds secrets of Roman history. Directions : By road -- A4 and B9 from Vienna (30-45mins). By train -- S7 from Vienna station Wien-Mitte or Wien-Nord to station Petronell-Carnuntum or Bad Deutsch-Altenburg takes about an hour. You can rent bikes at both train stations. German Language School in Vienna : ActiLingua Academy offer special packages for people who want to study language and culture in Vienna. Historisches Museum der Stadt Wien : Collection of museums of historical interest around Vienna; with pictures, commentary and opening hours. Only in German. Jewish Museum : Jdisches Museum der Stadt Wien, Dorotheergasse 11, Vienna. Open Sunday to Friday, 1000 - 1800, Thursdays 1000 - 2000. Closed Saturdays. Site is in German. Kuntshalle Wien : Exhibitions run by the City of Vienna. Its main focus is international contemporary art and the modernist tradition. Laxenburg : Laxenburg was the favourite summer residence of the Habsburgs. About 17 km south of Vienna. Sigmund Freud Museum : Sigmund Freud Society, Berggasse 19, Vienna. Via Imperlialis : Promoting the cultural heritage of Austria -- Castles, palaces and monasteries. Vienna's English Theatre : Founded in 1963, Vienna's English Theatre is the oldest foreign language theatre in continental Europe. Year-round productions of English and American classics, thrillers, comedies and farces as well as guest appearances by international star performers. Well-known stage and screen personalities to the Josefsgasse include Anthony Quinn, Linda Gray, Larry Hagman, Leslie Nielsen and Princess Grace of Monaco. Vienna Musicals : What will be the sound of music when you're in the capital of Austria? Vienna State Opera : What's playing at the opera. Wiener Symphoniker : Concert program in Vienna. Enter Austria : Getting to Austria, and other information for tourists. Austrian News : News from Austria. A selection of Austrian news resources online. Europe Travel Forum : From Albania to Vatican City, Scandinavia to the Mediterranean, Europe is culturally eclectic and full of lavish history. Join us in the travel forums if you have a question about Europe or would like to share your experiences about travelling or living in Europe. The Internet TravelNotes.org Flight Tickets : Save money on Round The World flight tickets. Travel News : Get the inside scoop with the latest travel features and tips. Past Articles . The Mozart Family Weather Outlook Car Hire Cruises Flights Hostels Tours Vacations Destinations Budget Travel Feedback Meta-Travel Travel Forums Travel Writers Africa Asia Caribbean Europe Middle East North America South America Oceania Travel Directory : Europe : Austria : Austrian Culture -- Submit to Travel Notes | Advertise on TravelNotes.org | Favourite Destinations | Magun'sCompass | Travel Articles | Writers | | Airlines | Airports | Car Hire | Cruises | Flights | Hotels | Online Reservations | Vacation Rentals | | Casinos | Olympics | World Cup | General Disclaimer | Meta-Travel | Search Resources | | TravelNotes is a Trademark of TravelNotes.org | Travel Notes Blog | Add URL | Add to Favorites The URL for this page is: http://www.travelnotes.org/Europe/Austria/austrian_culture.htm

Air Travel

AIR COURIER TRAVEL: International Association of Air Travel Couriers San Fran to Singapore The New Russia Remains A Work In Progress Victoria Falls, Flora & Fauna of Zimbabwe Courier to Italy at Home in Convent Customer Service About Us Contact Info Sign Up Here ***** ARTICLES RECENT COURIER FLIGHT FARES Frommer's Article IAATC in the Press! Washington Post Article IAATC in the Press! CNNMoney Article IAATC in the Press! The Daily Texan IAATC in the Press! FAA Security Updates US State Dept. Briefs Gov. Guide to Security Detroit $350.00 Los Angeles - Hong Kong $250.00 New York - Bangkok $300.00 San Fran - Manila $400.00 San Fran - Singapore $350.00 London - New York £245.00 London - Tokyo £275.00 London - Barbados £346.00 Consolidator Flights Check Fares Now! General Mission Statement About Us Frequently Asked Questions Contact Membership Benefits Bookmark IAATC! Member Courier Reports Member Comments How Do I Join? Visit I.A.A.T.C. Europe Web Site! U.K. Members Postcards U.K. Travel News Courier.org Consolidator Flight Engine When our members can't find a courier flight to fit their itinerary, they use our new Consolidator Flight Engine! -- Check Fares Now! Top 20 Travel Deals Travel Zoo's top 20 travel deals; plus sign-up for their free email newsletter. World's Best Buys Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel tells where you can get a good room for under $20 a night, and other bargain hot spots. USA Today's '10 GREAT INDEX' Ten great beaches, ten great museums, ten great places to eat french fries . . . dozens of ten great travel things. Good Travel Bargains Latest travel deals & steals from Expedia.com. TravelerJobs.com International Employment Directory & More Retire Rich in Mexico MSN report on why more Americans are retiring South of the Border. Travel Book Reviews MSNBC report on Travel Books tackle myths, realities. Study in Bangkok Robert Hipsher tells how he is getting a 2-year Master's Degree at a Bangkok University for $5000. Airline Information International airline info page. Airport / City Codes Multiple views via FAA Airport Delays Info from the FAA Command Center Hotwire Go global with Hotwire Hot-Fares Site59 Last-minute getaways SkyAuction Now You're Going Somewhere Cheap Airfare 1travel.com offers discount airfares Low Cost Airlines Links to low-cost airlines in North America & Europe DrCruise.com Good info, cruise line links and good price quotes GoFindTravel.com Database of Travel Search Engines Traveling Solo Connecting . . . Solo Travel Network for single and solo travelers Backpacker Info Syndicated travel writer Lucy Izon's Backpacker's Journal. Money Exchange Current worldwide currency rates Rail/Air/Hotel Travelnow.com: Online Eurorail, air and hotel booking Travel on a Budget About.com's huge store of budget travel info HomeExchange.com Fastest growing home exchange system on the web Hostelling International Youth hostels aren't just for kids Hotels Abroad All-Hotels.Com listings worldwide Last-Minute Hotels Booking service for last-minute hotel rates - late rooms World Time World Time around the globe. World Weather Weather Channel's guide to sun & rain U.S. State Department Info on visas, pas sports & links to foreign consulates MORE LINKS More interesting travel sites

Mexico Travel Site: Everything

Mexico Travel Tools T RAVEL T OOLS T RAVEL T OOLS Alvarado Antigua Castillo De Teayo Catemaco Cazones Cempoala Cerro Azul Chachalacas Chiapas Coatepec Coatzacoalcos Coatzintla Cordoba Cosamaloapan Costa Esmerelda El Tajin Fortin De Las Flores Gutirrez Zamora Huatusco Jalcomulco Martinez Minatitln Naolinco Nautla Oaxaca Orizaba Otatiln Pnuco Papantla Poza Rica Puebla Quiahuiztln San Andres Tuxtlas San Juan Evengelista San Lorenzo-Tenochtitlan Santiago Tuxtlas Sontecomapan State of Veracruz Tampico Tecolutla Tlacotalpan Tlapacoyan Tlaxcala Villahermosa Xico Navigate Veracruz Mexico City , 20 million strong and growing, is the largest City in the Americas. It is built upon the ruins of the most glorious City of the pre-Columbian Americas by the Aztecs who were the last of many ambitious civilizations who rose to power and glory beginning around 1200 BC with the Olmecs of Veracruz. At the beginning of another age, about 500 years ago, our featured Carnaval City Veracruz was again the cradle of the Mexico today when Hernn Corts landed on the coast near modern-day Veracruz on Good Friday 21 April 1519 with 11 ships, 550 men and 16 horses. The determined man of destiny ordered his ships burned. (history continued ) Daily News Update from Mexico & Latin America ANNUAL EVENTS || PASSPORT/VISA CUSTOMS || GUIDES TO MEXICO || State Tourismo || LINKS || GETTING THERE || - Bus Companies || PLACES TO STAY -- Veracruz State || -120 Cities || HEALTH & SAFETY || TOURS || MAPS || MONEY || FAST FACTS || LANGUAGE || WEATHER || MEDIA || - Top Headlines || TRADE || HISTORY Planning at Trip Mexico by frommers.com > Planning a Trip > Tips for Travelers with Special Needs For Families Highly recommended For Students no formal network of student discounts For Gay & Lesbian Public same-sex affection is rare Disabilities one giant obstacle For Seniors popular country for retirees, paperwork important For Women Alone safer traveling in Mexico than USA Mexico Travel Site: Everything you need to know for an enjoyable vacation in Mexico. Annual Events Calendar of Events by www.visitmexicopress.com Calendar of Mexican Fiestas and Holidays by vivasancarlos.com Holiday Planner by www.infopv.com Similar pages Passport/Visa Customs /Documents Traveling in Mexico requires proof of citizenship, which is easiest to provide by carrying a valid passport. If you do not have a passport, never fear. It is also possible to get a tourist visa (tarjeta de turista) with certified copy of your birth certificate (embossed seal do impress) and a photo ID at border crossings. The cost of a tourist visa is about $20 USD, and is included in the cost of your international plane or cruise ship ticket . Visas are typically valid for 180 days M ost people officially need a passport to pick up their tourist card, but for US and Canadian citizens all that's required is proof of citizenship (an original birth certificate or notarized copy, for instance, or naturalization papers), along with some form of photo ID (such as a driver's license). D on't lose the blue copy of your tourist card, which is given back to you after immigration inspection. You are legally required to carry it at all times, and if you have to show your papers, it's more important than your passport. Get extra visas if you'll be leaving and returning to Mexico during your trip. Planning your Flight & air travel rules by carnaval.com When taking chances on an expired ID your biggest concern is the airlines will not accept it. The Mexican rules do not say the ID must be current but that may not matter to your air carrier. Visas And Red Tape by roughguides for travelnow USA Restrictions of entering USA from Mexico by mexicoweb.com State Department Travel Information Sheet on Mexico US Consulates: Embassies and consular agents should be contacted for such emergencies as police arrest, lost passports or tourist cards, medical difficulties or accidents, or if you find that your car is unable to make the requisite return trip out of Mexico. http://travel.state.gov/travel_warnings.html for Consular Information sheets and warnings http://travel.state.gov/tips_mexico.html Tips for Travelers to Mexico. Visa and Travel Advisories for Mexico by nationalgeographic.com Guides to Mexico OFFICIAL www.visitmexico.com Mexico's Tourism Promotion Board Mexico-travel.com / Ministry of Tourism of Mexico Select City: Acapulco Aguascalientes Ajijic Akumal Alamos Baha de Kino Bajamar Barra de Navidad Batopilas Boca del Rio Buceras Buenavista Cabo Pulmo Cabo San Lucas Campeche Cancun Catavia Cerocahui Chapala Chetumal Chichen Itza Chihuahua Chilpancingo Cholula Cihuatln Ciudad del Carmen Ciudad Delicias Ciudad Juarez Ciudad Madero Ciudad Mante Ciudad Obregon Ciudad Valles Ciudad Victoria Coatzacoalcos Cob Cocoyoc Colima Cozumel Creel Cuernavaca Culiacan Divisadero Dolores Hidalgo Durango El Fuerte Ensenada Garza Garcia Gomez Palacio Guadalajara Guanajuato Guaymas Guerrero Negro Hermosillo Huatulco Huatusco Isla de Navidad Isla Mujeres Ixtapa Ixtapan de la Sal Jalapa Jiutepec Juriquilla Kantenah La Huerta La Paz La Piedad Lagos de Moreno Lazaro Cardenas Len Loreto Los Barriles Los Mochis Manzanillo Maroma Matamoros Matehuala Mazatlan Merida Mexicali Mexico City Minatitlan Monclova Monterrey Morelia Mulege Municipio de Solidaridad Naucalpan Navojoa Nogales Nuevo Laredo Nuevo Vallarta Oaxaca Pachuca Palenque Paracho Patzcuaro Pie de la Cuesta Piedras Negras Playa del Carmen Poza Rica Progreso Puebla Puerto Angel Puerto Aventuras Puerto Escondido Puerto Morelos Puerto Nuevo Puerto Peasco Puerto Vallarta Queretaro Real del Catorce Real del Mar Reynosa Rincn de Guayabitos Rosarito Salina Cruz Saltillo San Blas San Carlos San Cristobal de las Casas San Felipe San Felipe del Agua San Ignacio San Jos del Cabo San Juan del Rio San Luis Potosi San Miguel de Allende San Quintin Santa Rosala Sn Pedro Garza Garca Tamazunchale Tampico Tapachula Taxco Tecate Tehuacan Tenacatita Tepic Tequisquiapan Tijuana Tlalnepantla Tlaquepaque Tlaxcala Todos Santos Toluca Torren Tultitln Tulum Tuxtla Gutierrez Uruapan Uxmal Valladolid Valle de Bravo Veracruz Villahermosa Xilitla Zacatecas Zapopan Zihuatanejo Zimapan OFFICIAL State Tourism Offices in Mexico Mexican Government Tourist Board -- main office in Mexico City (tel. 555/203-1103 ). USA: Mexico Hot Line (tel. 800/44-MEXICO Chicago (tel. 312/606-9252 ); Houston (tel. 713/772-2581, ext. 105, or 713/772-3819); Los Angeles (tel. 213/351-2069; fax 213/351-2074); Miami (tel. 305/718-4095 ); and New York (tel. 212/308-2110 ). The Mexican Embassy is at 1911 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W., Washington, DC 20005 (tel. 202/728-1750 ). Canada: 1 Place Ville-Marie, Suite 1931, Montreal, QUE, H3B 2C3 (tel. 514/871-1052 ); 2 Bloor St. W., Suite 1502, Toronto, ON, M4W 3E2 (tel. 416/925-0704 ); 999 W. Hastings, Suite 1110, Vancouver, BC, V6C 2W2 (tel. 604/669-2845 ). Embassy office: 1500-45 O'Connor St., Ottawa, ON, K1P 1A4 (tel. 613/233-8988; fax 613/235-9123). Guide to Mexico by Lonely Planet || Map || Home Excellent short history and good overview of the highspots. Lonely Planet sells 4 guidebooks to Mexico. www.mexconnect.com mailto:davidmcl@mexconnect.com Mexico travel tips by mpsnet.mx || Interest Index || Mexico City || Espanol Immigration, Customs, Taxes, Tips, Banking Services, Driving, Safety and Health. Huge very capable and worthwhile site. by mexico.netgate.net Organized by State HISTORY MAPS RECREATIONAL SITES ECOTOURISM MUSEUMS LOCAL FESTIVITIES BEACHES COLONIAL SITES ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES . Getting There By Air - Aeromxico and Mexicana are the largest Mexican airlines but there are many airlines offering special pricing. The web is empowering air travelers like never before to enable them to get the best deal with the least hassle. Visit our frequently updated web- guide to this fast growing area. Airports in Mexico BUS Companies in Mexico Mexico has one of the best bus transit systems in the world. nearly every location is served by a bus. Some Spanish will be required By Car - Temporary Import Permit Required As a NAFTA border country, one hopes the long standing hassle of this process would ease. All foreign registered car requires a Temporary Import permit. You can do this at the border but you need to have prepared in advance if your car has a lien on it.. Process takes a couple of hours and requires proof of ownership (notarized permit to take car to Mexico from lien-holder, if any), a bond issued to the Mexican Government for the market value of the car or a valid credit card imprint charged with a processing fee approximately valued at US $12. It is good are good for six months. ... Driving at night is not recommended (potholes, livestock, and the lack of lighting are the chief hazards)... Also be cautious of roadside bandits who may attempt to get you to stop only to rob you... English speaking Angeles Verdes (Green Angels 91-800-90392), assist tourists on the highways for free except for gas and spare parts... Unleaded gas is found throughout Mexico at all gas stations... Gas up when reaching one-quarter level in remote locations. Last Minute Deals From City: To: State or Region... City... This page requires Javascript. Getting Around There Rough Guides Getting Around in association with TravelNow Buses camiones rule! (Mexican word for the long distance buses to serve virutally every town in the nation) First-class vehicles have numbered, reserved seats, videos and air conditioning Trains Only recommended for from the border to Mexico City (where sleeper services represent great value), Mexico City to Oaxaca, and the amazing Copper Canyon Railway. Flights Aeromxico and Mexicana, which between them connect most places to Mexico City, usually several times a day. Aviacsa serves the Yucatn, Chiapas, Oaxaca, Guadalajara, Acapulco, Cancn, Tijuana and Monterrey. Aerolineas Internacionales and Aero California also cover most major destinations while Aeromar operates mainly in the north Ferries Baja California with a trio of ports on the Pacific mainland: Santa Rosala to Guaymas, and La Paz to Mazatln and Topolobampo (for Los Mochis). For detailed information on fares and schedules see http://www.mexconnect.com/mex_/mexicoferryw.html Driving Recommends not taking your own car but renting for short periods. Mostly due to the targeting of tourists for shakedowns by underpaid traffic police. Drivers from the US, Canada, Britain, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand will find that their licences are valid. Other reasons to avoid the hassle: Speed bumps can be huge, gas by government monopoly Pemex expensive & Theft of your vehicle is a significant concern. Hitching Not recommended particularly solo. If you do keep your baggage to hand in case you need to leave in a hurry (feigned carsickness is one way to get a driver to stop). Particularly avoid areas frequented by bandidos Local Transportation always plentiful and inexpensive, Banditry: A Warning Roads where there have been regular reports of problems, and where you should certainly try to avoid driving at night, include Hwy-15 (Los Mochis-Mazatln) and express Hwy-1 in Sinaloa, Hwy-5 (Mexico City-Acapulco) in Guerrero, Hwy-75 (Oaxaca-Tuxtepec), Hwy-57 (San Luis Potos-Matahuela), and near the border, in particular on Hwy-2 (Mexicali-Agua Prieta) and Hwy-40 (Matamoros-Monterrey). Places to Stay tripadvisor has links to a growing number of places to stay in hundreds of Mexican Cities and over a third have ratings by real people 120 Mexican Cities with on-line booking starsanddiamonds.com.mx has certification program with 5 stars as the highest rating Health & Safety Although Mexico is considered a third world country, its general concern about sanitation and cleanliness have improved enormously in the past decade. As is the case in most tropical countries, consider what your system is used to before you eat it. Purified water is always available during trip. Montezuma's revenge or turista is best avoided by not drinking the water including ice cubes (which are not always made with " agua purificada ") but there is no sure way to avoid the unfamiliar bacteria. Mexico has a relatively low crime rate but take precautions against theft. Nationally: Red Cross Medical emergency 15-20-55 Police emergency is 18-39-54; Fire department 14-2 0 -50; Travelers’ Health Information for Mexico & Central America by www.cdc.gov/travel . Cholera, dengue fever, hepatitis, malaria, polio, rabies, tetanus, typhoid. Air pollution in Mexico City between December and May. USA http://travel.state.gov/medical.html State Department offers medical information for Americans traveling abroad and a list of air ambulance services Health and Vaccinations for Mexico by nationalgeographic.com Talk About It Mexico State Tourism Offices by mexonline.com Travelers Message Service "Before you leave home, give your family and friends the URL of this board.... http://www.weblane.com/experiencia/bb/ ...then if you need to get in touch with each other, just post messages on this board." Tours Frequently updated inclusive list from Publisher Ron Mader, Mexican Association of Adventure Travel and Ecotourism (AMTAVE) Phone: (25) 661-9121 Fax: (25) 662-7354 Email: 74174.2424@compuserve.com Cancun Tours Operators by mexicoweb.com Maps www.maps-of-mexico.com 4000 pages of Mexico maps Maps google.com/search=mexico+maps Mexico Map by lib.utexas.edu Won't fit on your screen or print. Mexico Map by Expedia Money S ince 1998 when we began check the exchange rate for the U.S. dollar, and the one used in this book, is around 10 pesos; at that rate, an item that costs 10 pesos would be equivalent to US$1. However the peso is very unstable so you cannot count on this being the rate. Check before you go Best Exchange Rates: Automated teller machines (ATMs) and credit cards continue to offers the best exchange rates. Traveler's checks experiencing declining relative exchange rate and reduced acceptance. U.S. cash is accepted by many merchants at exchange rates that vary widely. Banks usually give the best exchange rate. Credit cards are widely accepted in most cities and resort areas at exchange rate determined by your bank. ATMS ( Cirrus and PLUS systems) are widely available and allow you to not carry too much cash. Tipping: Luxury resort areas are equivalent to US levels- 15% and 20%. Elsewhere 10% is acceptable. $1 per day for your hotel maid or $1 per bag for the porter. Taxi drivers don't expect tips but be sure to negotiate the price in advance. A tip of U.S. coins, which cannot be exchanged into Mexican currency, is of no value to the service provider. Support your Tour guides (including this one) VAT: Mexico has a value-added tax of 15% (Impuesto de Valor Agregado, or IVA; pronounced "ee-bah") on most everything, including restaurant meals, bus tickets, and souvenirs. (Exceptions are Cancn, Cozumel, and Los Cabos, where the IVA is 10%; as ports of entry, they receive a break on taxes.) Hotels charge the usual 15% IVA, plus a locally administered bed tax of 2% (in most areas), for a total of 17%. You quoted hotel rate may not have included this fee Y OUR CREDIT CARD BANK: There is significant credit card fraud and your bank may not honor your charge unless you have told them in advance of your plans. Also they are more likely to cut you off following significant activity so take a back-up card. Many cards add a surcharge onto foreign transactions particularly Airline cards and American Express. It is ieasy to avoid this chage of 1 to 4% by checking in advance since it is simply a gouge as there is actually no extra cost to the bank card provider more on c urrency Conversion at tradeday.com Costs And Money in Mexico by travelnow.com Mexico is not as cheap as it once was Shopping in Mexico by nationalgeographic.com 800/424-7787 or www.mastercard.com . 800/843-7587 or www.visa.com Fast Facts Electricity: 110V, 60 Hz same as USA Weights & measures: metric (see the conversion table .) Telephone Mexico international access code is 52 . Select city codes: Mexico City is 05, Vera Cruz Area Code 28 , Cabo San Lucas 0684, Cancn 0988, Cozumel 0987, Puerto Vallarta 0322. Omit the 0 when calling from abroad. Long-distance calls are expensive, it is best to arrange to have a calling card access number in advance. You can also place reversed-charge calls by reaching an international operator, dial 09. Business Hours : Banks are open 9 AM–1:30 PM Monday–Friday, although some banks are now expanding hours. Stores often open between 9 AM–8 PM, but can close for siesta in midday. Holidays Banks and most businesses close on New Year's Day (1 January), Constitution Day (5 February), Birthday of Benito Juarz (21 March), Good Friday through Easter Monday (four days in March or April; date varies), Labor Day (1 May), Anniversary of Battle of Puebla (5 May), Independence Day (16 September), Columbus Day (12 October), All Saints' Day (1 November), All Souls' Day (2 November), Anniversary of the Mexican Revolution of 1910 (20 November), and Christmas Day (25 December). Area: 1,972,000 sq. km (769,080 sq. mi) Capital city: Mexico City (pop 20 million) Population: 97,967,000 in 1995 (growth rate 2%) ;Literacy rate 88%. People: Approximately 70% mestizo (mixed European and Indian descent) 9% European and 20% indgena (Native Americans or Indians - including Nahua, Maya, Zapotecs, Mixtecs, Totonacs, and Tarascos or Purpecha) 8% of the population speak Indian languages. Also includes Arabic 400,000, Chinese 31,000 Language: Language: Language: Spanish Religion: 90% Roman Catholic, 6% Protestant GDP: US$370 billion GDP per head: US$4000. Travel Seasons -- Mexico has two principal travel seasons. High season begins around December 20 and continues to Easter; in some places it begins as early as mid-November. Low season is from the day after Easter to mid-December; during low season, prices may drop 20% to 50%. In beach destinations popular with Mexican travelers, such as Veracruz and Acapulco , prices will revert to high season during July and August, the traditional national summer vacation period. Prices inland fluctuate little from high to low season, but may rise dramatically during the weeks of Easter and Christmas and at Carnaval time at the port Cities of Veracruz and Mazatlan. Language English <-> Espanol <-> Portuguese travlang.com/languages One of the web's great travel resources with spoken words for 65 languages. Time to brush up on your travel Espanol? Weather Mexico is often considered tropical but is rather temperate or spring like year-round. Dry winter (November through April) and rainy (May through October) season, although the rain is usual tolerable for travelers. In short, anytime of year is going to be relatively nice for travel. Find the Weather for any City, State or ZIP Code, or Airport Code or Country by Wunderground Satelite Photo of the Hemisphere Be your own weather predictor. Weather and Climate of Mexico by nationalgeographic.com Jan Mar May July Sept Nov Acapulco F) 88 72 88 72 90 77 91 77 90 77 90 75 Rainfall (inch) .5 .2 0 8 11 .6 Guadalajara (F) 73 45 82 48 88 57 79 59 79 59 77 50 Rainfall (inch) .5 .3 1 7 7 .5 La Paz (F) 73 55 79 55 91 63 97 73 95 73 84 63 Rainfall (inch) .3 0 0 1 1 .5 Mrida (F) 82 64 90 68 93 70 91 73 90 73 84 66 Rainfall (inch) 1 .5 3 5 7 1 Mexico City (F) 72 43 81 50 81 55 75 55 73 55 73 48 Rainfall (inch) .5 .5 3 6 5 .5 Monterrey (F) 68 48 79 55 88 68 93 72 93 72 73 54 Rainfall (inch) 1 1 2 3 4 1 Oaxaca (F) 82 46 90 54 90 59 82 59 81 59 82 50 Rainfall (inch) 2 1 5 8 11 2 San Cristbal (F) 68 41 72 45 72 48 72 50 70 50 68 45 Rainfall (inch) 2 2 7 7 14 3 Tijuana (F) 68 43 70 46 73 54 81 61 81 61 73 50 Rainfall (inch) 2 1 .2 0 .5 1 Veracruz (F) 77 64 79 70 86 77 88 75 88 77 82 70 Rainfall (inch) 1 1 4 9 12 2 Media & News Mexico City News || Novedades.com.mx/Frontpage thenews@ri.redint.com Daily newspaper; oldest English-language paper in Mexico El-universal.com.mx Mexico's oldest daily has an English section MediaINFO Link - Latin America Another wonderfully comprehensive directory by Ron Mader eco-journalist. Internet del Diario de Yucatn based in Merida La Jornada en Internet : Espanol Only Diario.com.mx : Espanol Only Today's Top Mexico & Latin American Headlines Trade Business wear is formal. Mexicans attach much importance to courtesy and the use of titles. Prior appointments are necessary and if in doubt about a correct title it is advisable to use licenciado in place of seor. English is widelyspoken in business circles although it is a big plus to be able to speakSpanish. AmCham.com.mx || amchammx@amcham.com.mx American Chamber of Commerce - Mexico Phone: (011-52)(5) 724-3830 MexicoBusiness.com/ || MAILBOX@MEXICOBUSINESS.COM Subscriptions are $45 in the United States and Mexico LATCO.org || info@latco.org Latin American Trade Organization of Oregon. "The Mexican Government continues to enact reforms, including the privatization of many economic areas, making the Mexican economy one of the most open economies world-wide." History T he Spaniards were well received in the Veracruz coastal towns by the Toltecs who resented oppressive Aztec domination and were willing to march with Cortes against the great Aztec capital built on a lake. Moctezuma II, the Aztec god king had been expecting a momentous occasion for his priests had long predicted the phoenix like god Quetzalcatl's to return from the east in the year of 1519. Corts wasted little time reducing the City to ashes taking his eager host Moctezuma hostage immediately after being invited to the palace. The war of conquest would last another 28 months but the destuction and supression of the Aztec and Mayan cililizations would continue for centuries. However, the greatest decimation would soon come to pass with epidemics which reduced the population from 25 miullion to one million by 1605. T he Spanish were conquistadores who left their women at home and went off on a quest for glory, gold and God. Consequently they often took native wives. Spanish-born who expected to be treated like nobility and the natives of New Spain who built the country contolled the country amidst growing resentment between themselves. The natives also separated themselves as criollos (born of Spanish parents in New Spain), metzitos (mixed Eoropean, African and Indian blood) and Indians or Africans. In 1808 the Frenchman Napoleon Bonaparte occupied most of Spain weakening Spanish control and allowing the rivalry between New Spain groups to intensify. On 16 September 1810 Miguel Hidalgo a Criollo parish priest issued his now-famous call to rebellion, the Grito de Dolores. In 1821 Spain agreed to Mexican independence however the new governments were ineffective and unstable. I n 1845, the US congress voted to annex Texas and the Mexican-American War followed. Under the resulting Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo (1848), Mexico ceded modern Texas, California, Utah, Colorado and most of New Mexico and Arizona to the USA. In 1864 Napoleon's nephew, the foolishly arrogarnt Napoleon III attempted to colonize Mexico, but the reign of his ruler, the Austrian archduke Maximilian of Hapsburg was shortlived ending with his hanging. T he Party of the Institutionalized Revolution (the PRI) took power in 1934 following the 10 year Mexican Revolution which claimed the lives of nearly 1 out 8 citizens. The PRI has dominated the history of Mexico for most of the 20th century but their control is eroding fast. In 1988, Carlos Salinas de Gortari was elected to the single 6 year term as president despite the widely accepted belief that the current Mayor Cardenas of Mexico City won the election. Salinas was very successful in bringing about economic reform and is the person most responsible for the signing of NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement on 1 January 1994. T he prior President, Ernesto Zedillo was 43 when he was elected following the assassination of Salinas' chosen successor. Zedillo has been a genuine reformer allowing opposition parties to win many key elections. His term has been beset be economic crisis as well as a revolution in the southern state of Chiapas by the Zapatistas who demand social justice for Mexico's oppressed Indians. The current President Vicente Fox seeks to completely redefine the relationship of Mexico and its powerful Northern neighbors by opening the borders as wide as possible and convincing his country men to think bigger. A talented and determined historic figure, Fox will have till 2006 to remake a difficult and corrupt bureaucracy staffed by enemies of reform. olmecs are mainly known for f the striking stone figures left behind by the mother culture of Meso America which preceded the Mayans and Aztecs . Olmec civilization was in ascendance between 1300 and 600 B.C. Their greatest architectural treasure has be found at La Venta in the state of Tabasco History of Mexico by nationalgeographic.com Lots of Links: Mexico dmoz Mexico : Travel and Tourism : Arts and Entertainment Business and Economy Education Maps and Views News and Media Society and Culture Transportation Weather Volunteer run DMOZ can be your best way to get a site indexed by google and other search engines Travel and Tourism Lodging Message Boards National Parks Travel Guides Travel Services Birdwatching Camping and RVs Roads and Highways Show Caves Travelogues Wineries Mexican States : Links indicated as of Jan-2004 Note only Baja, Quintana Roo and Jalisco have more than 400. Aguascalientes (7) Baja California (370) Baja California Sur (698) Campeche (10) Chiapas (49) Chihuahua (36) Coahuila (22) Colima (59) Durango (4) Federal District (64) Guanajuato (154) Guerrero (329) Hidalgo (2) Jalisco (405) Mexico State (13) Michoacan (21) Morelos (20) Nayarit (110) Nuevo Leon (79) Oaxaca (166) Puebla (7) Queretaro (13) Quintana Roo (709) San Luis Potosi (19) Sinaloa (76) Sonora (83) Tabasco (1) Tamaulipas (64) Tlaxcala (2) Veracruz see out special section Yucatan (69) Zacatecas (7) Northern Veracruz Costa Esmeralda || CASTILLO DE TEAYO || CAZONES || Cerro Azul || COATZINTLA || Gutirrez Zamora || Martnez || Nautla || Pnuco || P apantla || El TAJN || Poza Rica || Tampico || Tecolutla || Tlapacoyan || Tuxpan Xalapa >> Mexico City Central Antigua || Cempoala || Chachalacas || Coatepec || Jalcomulco || Naolinco || Quiahuiztln || Xico Orizaba- Great Mountains Cordoba || Fortin de las Flores || Huatusco || Orizaba >> Puebla || Tlaxcala Los Tuxtlas Catemaco || Santiago Tuxtlas || San Andres Tuxtlas || Sontecomapan >> Chiapas Papaloapan Plain Alvarado || Cosamaloapan || Otatiln || Tlacotalpan >> Oaxaca Southern Veracruz Coatzacoalcos || Minatitln || San Juan Evengelista || San Lorenzo-Tenochtitlan || Villahermosa Y ucatan Peninsula Cancn || MERIDA || Cozumel || Isla Mujeres || Playa del Carmen Where to Go in Mexico by nationalgeographic.com To Top of Page To Carnaval Home Page (restores frame menu) Questions or comments? email the webmaster@ carnaval.com Last updated Oct-04 Web www.carnaval.com To: From: Depart: 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 12:00am 1:00am 2:00am 3:00am 4:00am 5:00am 6:00am 7:00am 8:00am 9:00am 10:00am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm Morning Noon Evening Anytime Stops: 0 1 2 3 Return: 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 12:00am 1:00am 2:00am 3:00am 4:00am 5:00am 6:00am 7:00am 8:00am 9:00am 10:00am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm Morning Noon Evening Anytime 0 1 2 3 4 5 Adults (15-64) 0 1 2 3 4 Children (2-14) 0 1 2 3 4 5 Seniors (65+)

Switzerland Travel lastminute.com offers

Switzerland Travel: Deals and travel information for Switzerland, Europe Mobile site | Security | Your account | Help find - find.html -- Travel to Switzerland Home > World > Europe > Switzerland Travel lastminute.com offers a fantastic array of incredible Switzerland travel deals. Whetherbooking a hotel, flight, holiday or car hire, lastminute.com is your one stop travel shop. So, either check out our special Switzerland travel deals below,use our search box to find the perfect trip or browse through our vast list of destinations to see all we have to offer. Let lastminute.com help you plan the most rewarding journey you've ever had. Search Travel Flight+Hotel-SAVE £££ Holidays Flights Hotels Holidays search Destination: list destinations Departure area: Show me all Any London Airport / Station Any East Anglia Airport Any Midlands Airport Any North East / Yorkshire Airport Any North West Airport Any Scottish Airport Any South West / Wales Airport Northern Ireland Price: Show me all Under 100 Under 200 Under 300 Under 400 Under 500 Under 600 Under 700 Under 800 Under 900 Under 1000 More than 1000 Day: Month: Any 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 false Any December January February March April May June July August September October November Give or take: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 ( days ) Board type: Show me all All Inclusive Bed And Breakfast Fly Drive Full-board Half-board Room Only Self Catering Length of stay: Show me all Short Break / Weekend (1-5 Nights) Week (6-9 Nights) Fortnight (10-16 Nights) Longer (17 Nights Or More) Hotel star rating: Show me all 1* 2* 3* 4* 5* Temperature: Show me all Warm (over 15c) Very warm (over 20c) Hot (over 25c) Very hot (over 30c) Travel time: Show me all Less than 3 hours 3 To 6 hours 6 To 9 hours 9 To 12 hours Over 12 hours Keywords (eg 'Pool'): Jump to... Switzerland Hotels (266) Switzerland Holidays (161) Switzerland Flights Switzerland Car rentals (41) Switzerland Short breaks Switzerland Guide Deals Area Info Attractions Events Deals Today's Top Deals La Reserve Hotel Spa Geneva 3* Skiing Holiday in Chateau d'Oex, 7 nights half board Genevafrom 503 Flora Hotel Luzern / Lucerne 3* Skiing Holiday in Engelberg, 7 nights from 545 Area Info Small, mountainous and wealthy, with a population of just seven million, Switzerland is renowned for its enviable quality of life in a country that ticks along like clockwork. Its products are sought after the world over, from dangerously delicious cheese and chocolate to luxurious watches whose timekeeping is as sharp as a Swiss army knife, another popular export from this clever little nation in the Alps. Switzerlands famed political neutrality and isolated location, ring-fenced by mountains, have enabled it to play a safe but central role in European affairs. These factors also gave rise to the coveted Swiss bank account, whose anonymity, along with tax relief and what may be the safest banks in the world, have made Zürich one of Europes major financial hubs. The conveniently central location in the middle of Europe has also made Switzerland a favourite meeting place for conventions and international conferences Geneva, for instance, is home to the United Nations. Switzerland is not only a place for professionals, though. As a stylish tourist destination it offers top ski resorts like Zermatt and celebrity-studded St Moritz, while the white peaks of mountains set against blue skies make a wonderful backdrop for summertime hiking. The ancient capital of Berne provides opportunities for sightseeing and elegant shopping, while nightlife can prove to be a lot of fun, too, since the Swiss like their food and folk music even in discotheques and nightclubs. Engadin Tourist Office Address: Chesa Cumuenela, 7504 Pontresina, Switzerland Phone: +41 (0) 81 842 6573 Attractions Rhine Falls A stunning natural wonder, the Rhine Falls in Neuhausen are the largest waterfalls in Europe, cascading down cataracts which are 450 feet wide and 75 feet high. Augusta Raurica In its heyday, 1800 years ago, 20,000 people lived in the Roman town of Augusta Raurica, 15km from Basle. Many of the traces left behind by the native Celtic inhabitants and the Roman conquerors have now been excavated and are accessible to the public in the largest open-air archaeological museum in north-west Switzerland. Engelberg-Titlis Less than two hours from Zürich lies the scenic ski resort of Engelberg, a beautiful mountainous haven notable for its fine snow conditions and off-piste skiing. The official ski season here lasts from November until April, although skiing is possible throughout the summer on the glacier that saddles the impressive 3200-metre high Titlis mountain. Zrich Zoo Perched on the beautiful green slopes of Zürichberg hill, Zürich Zoo offers panoramic views of the city and Lake Zürich. This conservation-conscious animal park is set in extensive grounds that are home to 250 different wild species, many of which are endangered. Goldau Nature and Animal Park Discover the wonders of nature and the animal kingdom at Switzerland's premier animal park, situated in the beautiful boulder-strewn wilderness of Goldau. Many of the animals here are free-roaming and can be petted and fed - with care of course! Grossmnster Church Grossmünster Church with its imposing towers, soaring spires and fascinating history, features among Zurich's principal landmarks and offers panoramic views over the city centre. Schipfe The "Schipfe" is one of Zurich's oldest districts, whose name originates from the nautical term " schupfen " (push), used by the fishermen to describe how they pushed their boats to the river bank and back. Opera House Zurich's Opera House is not only a cultural centre of great distinction but also one of the city's most beautiful buildings. Swiss National Museum With fairy-tale turrets that glisten in the sunshine, the tower of the Swiss National Museum in Zurich has become a recognised symbol of the city. The museum building (which dates from 1898) houses the largest collection of cultural and historical artefacts in Switzerland. Bad Zurzach Effervescent crystal waters bubble, gush and flow from every crevice at Bad Zurzach, one of Switzerland's leading thermal baths, offering four steaming outdoor pools, jacuzzis, rapids, a gym and a spa complete with saunas and steam rooms. Situated close to the German border and approximately half-an-hour's drive from Zurich and Basel, this Swiss spa oozes minerals renowned for their therapeutic properties. Events International Lauberhorn Ski World Cup 11 - 15 Jan 2006 (annual) Wengen NOKIAN-X-TREME Snowbike Festival 13 - 15 Jan 2006 (annual) Bergün International Christmas Tree Festival 1 Dec 2005 - 8 Jan 2006 (annual) Geneva International Ice Climbing Festival 6 - 8 Jan 2006 (annual) Kandersteg Speed Race Dec 2005 (annual) Titlis Glacier ; Part of the lastminute.com group. lastminute.com , travel4less.com , travelselect.com , holidayautos.co.uk , medhotels.com , holidayhotels.com , onlinetravel.com , ifyouski.com , exhilaration.co.uk , gotofrance.com Holidays Hotels Citybreaks Gifts Experiences Entertainment Flights Site map Search site Skip navigation links Home Travel World Europe In Switzerland... Aargau 3 Hotels 2 Car rentals Basel 20 Hotels Flights 2 Car rentals Short breaks Bern 49 Hotels 16 Holidays Flights 4 Car rentals Geneva 46 Hotels 69 Holidays Flights 4 Car rentals Short breaks Graubuenden 8 Hotels 7 Holidays 3 Car rentals Luzern / Lucerne 35 Hotels 2 Holidays 2 Car rentals Schwyz 1 Hotels Solothurn 1 Car rentals St. Gallen 1 Hotels Ticino 14 Hotels Flights 6 Car rentals Valais 7 Hotels 59 Holidays Flights 5 Car rentals Vaud 17 Hotels 3 Holidays 6 Car rentals Zurich 65 Hotels 5 Holidays Flights 6 Car rentals Short breaks Popular areas Zurich Lugano Lausanne Interlaken Bern Sion Hotels in... St. Gallen Luzern / Lucerne Zurich Aargau Valais More Switzerland Hotels Holidays in... Luzern / Lucerne Zurich Valais Bern Vaud More Switzerland Holidays --

South America Travel

Adventure holidays & singles holidays, adventure vacations, adventure travel & singles vacations - USA, Canada, Alaska, Mexico, Latin America & South America The Trek Idea | Why TrekAmerica? | How We Travel | Treknical Details | Special Groups | Contact Us Summer Tours | Winter Tours | Central & South America | Footloose Open Age | Australia | Receive our brochures by Mail or E-mail Availability | Make a Booking | Our Agents | Late Booking Discounts | Insurance | Booking Terms Frequently Asked Questions Trek Tips Information | Trekkers Message Board | Past Trekkers Websites | Trekkers Comments Press Releases | Trek E-Newsletters | Employment | Competitions | Our Affiliates | Useful Links adventure holidays adventure travel UK / International Websites the true spirit of adventure travel For over 30 years, TrekAmerica has been tempting travellers away from the "package" holiday approach and into the world of active and exciting small group adventure holidays. This is the world of TrekAmerica - the specialists in "off the beaten path" adventure travel across the Americas. So why not challenge yourself...not your budget. In addition to our TrekAmerica summer treks, we also offer the following range of adventure options: Footloose for all ages A wide range of camping, lodging, walking, biking & family adventure tours for all ages throughout USA, the Canadian Rockies, Alaska, Mexico, Belize & Guatemala. [ More information... ] TrekAdventures A unique selection of small group adventures through Central & South America including Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina and beyond. [ More information... ] Let's Trek Australia & NZ Sixteen different camping & lodging tours across Australia & New Zealand. Explore the outback, beaches, reefs, mountains & cities Trek style "Down Under". [ More information... ] TrekAmerica WinterSun *NEW 05/06 TREKS* Departing November to March a range of combination camping & lodging treks in the Southern United States, Mexico, Belize & Guatemala. [ More information... ] As North America's largest and most experienced small group adventure travel operator, TrekAmerica has expanded it's offerings with a year-round programme covering USA, Canada, Alaska, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand and 11 countries throughout Central & South America. Whether you are travelling alone or with a group of friends, come and explore with us the awe-inspiring National Parks, vibrant cities, tropical beaches and mysterious indigenous civilisations that makes the Americas a truly unique travel destination. The true spirit of adventure travel... Working with the Parks Our U.S division, Premiere International Corp / {dba} TREKAMERICA is operating under a variety of Incidental Business and Special Use Permits from the United States National Park Service, the United States National Forest Service, the United States Bureau of Land Management, the Park Service of Canada, the Hopi Indian Nation and the Navajo Indian Nation. TrekAmerica is an equal opportunity service provider. TrekAmerica Summer Adventure Tours | TrekAmerica Winter Adventure Tours | TrekAdventures South America Tours Footloose open age & family Adventure Holidays | Let's Trek Australia & New Zealand Tours USA tours | America tours | Canada tours | Alaska tours | Mexico tours | Belize tours | Guatemala tours Costa Rica tours | Peru tours | Ecuador tours | Bolivia tours | Chile tours | Argentina tours | Patagonia Tours Trek Amerika German Home Page | Trek America Dutch Home Page | Trek America Japanese Home Page If you have any suggestions or comments about our website please e-mail our webmaster © TrekAmerica Travel Ltd. All trademarks remain the property of their owners. All holidays are operated by Trek America Travel Ltd, a member of the First Choice group of companies, of First Choice House, Crawley, RH10 9GX. site map Hurricane update Create your own trip website Lastest Visa Information Since running our first tours back in 1971, TrekAmerica has established its place as the largest and most experienced small group adventure travel operator in North America covering the USA, Canada, Alaska, Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Peru, Inca Trail, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Patagonia, Australia & New Zealand . TrekAmerica's adventure holidays are a unique combination of sightseeing and exciting activities that will take you to the big cities, National Parks, remote beaches and many other hidden places off the tourist routes. Hike in deep canyons and up high mountains; explore hot deserts and cool lakes; enjoy vibrant cities and little known towns. See the best of North America and experience the many adventures this beautiful land has to offer, with plenty of free time to join in with the action or just sit back and relax. Looking for a singles holidays ... No problem... many of our passengers are single travellers seeking the safety and camaraderie you can only find in a small group. Australia adventure Footloose adventure travel, walking, lodging, mountain biking & family adventure holidays Why TrekAmerica adventure tour operator singles travel singles holidays singles vacations Exodus Travel Discovery, Wildlife & Adventure Caradonna diving specialists FlexiSki skiing holidays SunSail sailing holidays Adventure Company family adventure specialists Trips Worldwide Latin America holidays Waymark cross country skiing and walking holidays Australia Zealand adventure Connoisseur Inland Waterways Boating Holidays