Hotel Travel

O'Reilly Open Source Software Convention 2003 Home Registration Speakers Keynotes Tutorials Sessions At-a-Glance BOFs Community Meetings -- Events Community Software Exhibitors Sponsors Hotel/Travel Venue Map See & Do Press Mail List then put your text -- Hotel and Travel Information Hotel Info | Directions | Room Sharing | Restaurants | Travel Assistance | Rental Cars | Airline Tickets Event Headquarters Hotel Portland Marriott Downtown 1401 SW Naito Parkway Portland, OR 97201 Phone: 503-226-7600 Fax: 503-221-1789 Nestled in a beautiful riverside location with picturesque views of the Willamette River, the Portland Marriott Downtown will serve as the headquarters hotel for the 5th annual O?Reilly Open Source Convention. With the convenience of a downtown location, the Portland Marriott also provides access to numerous downtown amenities, including the MAX Light Rail and an eclectic blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. -- Open Source Convention Room Rate Discounted Room Rate: $129.00 (This rate is for single, double, triple or quad occupancy. Looking for a roommate? ) The cutoff date to make your room reservations is Friday, June 13, 2003 . In order to receive the discounted room rate, you must identify yourself as attending the "O'Reilly Open Source Convention." Reservations received after the cutoff date of June 13, 2003 will be honored on a space-available basis at the prevailing rate of the hotel. Hotel room rates are subject to applicable state & local taxes (currently 11.5%) in effect at time of check-in. Make your hotel reservations online: Portland Marriott Downtown Choose the red "Reserve a Room" button that appears at the top of the page. Enter Group Code: OAAOAAA (using the letter "o") to receive the O'Reilly discounted room rate. Choose your arrival and departure dates, and continue through the reservation system. An email confirmation will be sent to you confirming your hotel reservation at the Portland Marriott Downtown for the O'Reilly Open Source Convention. Make your hotel reservations by phone. Call: 1-800-228-9290 or call the hotel directly at (503) 226-7600. Alternative Hotels If you've waited to make your hotel reservations and find the headquarters hotel Sold Out, try these walking-distance alternatives. Residence Inn by Marriott 2115 SW River Parkway, Portland, OR Phone: 503-552-9500 Four Points by Sheraton 50 S.W. Morrison, Portland, OR Phone: 503-221-0711 Days Inn City Center 1414 SW Sixth Avenue, Portland, OR Phone: 503-221-1611 Doubletree Hotel Portland Downtown 310 SW Lincoln, Portland, OR Phone: 503-221-0450 Getting There Portland International Airport (PDX) The Portland Int'l Airport serves approximately 120 domestic and international cities by 17 commercial airlines. Arrival/Departure Information Direction To/From PDX Gate Locations at PDX Location of Car Rental Offices at PDX Ground Transportation Services at PDX MAX Light Rail For cheap & convenient transportation from the Portland International Airport (PDX) to Downtown Portland, hop aboard the Airport MAX light rail "Red Line". Service runs every 15 minutes. If you are staying at the convention headquarters hotel - Portland Marriott Downtown - you will want to exit the rail at the "Morrison downtown" stop. The Marriott is only a 6 - 8 minute walk South from the Morrison train stop. The fare for this ride is less than $2.00. Airport Shuttle Services The Portland Marriott Downtown provides an airport shuttle service. Cost is $15 per person. For airport pickup going to the Portland Marriott Downtown, you must make a reservation ahead of time by calling: (503) 740-0403. Driving Directions Visit the Marriott web site for customized driving directions from your unique starting point to the Portland Marriott Downtown. Click here for specific driving direction to the Hotel from the Portland International Airport. From the North (Seattle) Stay on I-5 South. Take the OMSI/Oregon City exit (#300B), remain in the right lane. Exit onto the Morrison Bridge, remain in the right lane. Take the ramp to Front Avenue (Naito Parkway) which makes a sharp loop to the right, going back under the bridge. Head south on Front Avenue (Naito Parkway), the hotel is located 8 blocks on the right. From the South (Salem) Remain on I-5 North and as you approach closer to Portland remain in the extreme left lane. Take the Front Avenue (Naito Parkway) exit (#1a) which approaches rapidly. When you get to the stop light, cross Front Avenue (Naito Parkway) onto Clay Street. Remain on Clay and make a right on 2nd Avenue. Make a right on Columbia Street and follow it down to Front Avenue (Naito Parkway). The hotel's driveway is the second entrance on your right. From the East (Portland Airport) Follow the signs to I-205 South/Salem. Take the exit I-84 West to Portland. Remain in the left lane and follow the signs to OMSI/City Center. On the overpass, switch to the right lane and take the City Center exit that goes onto the Morrison Bridge. On the bridge, remain in the right lane and take the Front Avenue (Naito Parkway) exit, which makes a sharp loop to the right, going back under the bridge. Head south on Front Avenue (Naito Parkway), the hotel is located 8 blocks on the right. From the West (Oregon Coast) From Highway 26/Sunset Highway, take the Market Street exit (just through the tunnel). This will take you to 4th Avenue. Follow 4th Avenue to Columbia Street. Make a right on Columbia and follow it to Front Avenue (Naito Parkway). Make a right on Front Avenue (Naito Parkway) and the hotel's driveway is the second entrance on the right. Parking Valet Parking Hotel Guest: $21.00 per night Visitor: $5.00 per hour (not to exceed $21.00 per day) Self Parking The Portland Marriott Downtown does not offer a self-parking service, however, there are several self-parking garages located adjacent to or within close walking distance to the hotel. 1st Street (between Clay & Columbia) (located directly behind the Hotel) Self-parking Garage. $12.50 per day. No security is available in this parking garage. Jefferson Street (between 1st & 2nd) (located 2 blocks away from Hotel) Self-parking Garage. $3.00/Hour (not to exceed $12.00/Day). No security is available in this parking garage. Please Note: Parking fees are approximate and completely subject to change without notice. Room Sharing If you are looking to save money on your housing costs, you may wish to room-share. We have set up a room-share mailing list to facilitate finding a suitable roommate. Please visit the Room Sharing page to submit your information and be added to the mailing list. The list will be updated and broadcast weekly. Restaurants within Walking Distance Visit the OSCON Restaurants page for a detailed listing of local restaurants within walking distance from the Portland Marriott Downtown. Travel Assistance The official O'Reilly conference travel planner offers one-stop shopping for your air travel and other travel needs in connection with your attendance at the O'Reilly Open Source Convention. Vivian V. Russell Travel Services 182 Farmers Lane, Suite 102 Santa Rosa, CA 95405 Email: vivianv@sonic.net Phone: (707) 525-0550, Fax: (707) 525-0560 Rental Cars Should you choose to make travel arrangements independently, you may contact Hertz directly to receive the special O'Reilly discount on rental cars at the O'Reilly Open Source Convention. To reserve a car with your special rate, call Hertz : 1 (800) 654-2240 in the U.S. 1 (800) 263-0600 in Canada (405) 749-4434 outside of these areas or call your nearest Hertz reservation center, your corporate travel department, or your travel agent. You must give the agent the Hertz CV #01XY0021 . Air Travel United Airlines is offering attendees traveling to our event a 5% discount off of the lowest applicable discount fare, including First Class, or a 10% discount off of the unrestricted mid-week coach fare. They will also offer an additional 5% off of those tickets purchased at least 60 days in advance. Discounts also apply on Shuttle by United and United Express flights. You must refer to Meeting ID #510CS in order to receive the convention attendee discount. Be certain to give either your travel planner or the United reservation agent (1-800-521-4041) this number. Our Environmental Commitment O'Reilly is committed to holding environmentally responsible events by using recycled products and choosing venues willing to partner with our Green efforts. Visit our Gone Green page for more information on the recycled products you'll receive at the convention. O'Reilly & Associates assumes no responsibility or liability for the facilities or services provided by the vendors and suppliers. Anyone attending this convention releases O'Reilly from any and all claims that may arise out of attending at this convention. O'Reilly Home | Privacy Policy © 2003, O'Reilly Media, Inc.

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Chicago Vacation Package The

Packages and Promotions for The Fairmont Chicago -- Chicago Hotel Package - Chicago Vacation Package Chicago Hotel Package - Chicago Vacation Package The Fairmont Chicago Hotel package; relaxing spa treatment, romantic evening, shopping or exploring the city's impressive culture and nightlife, The Fairmont Chicago offers the perfect Chicago vacation package! Experience Chicago and all this magnificent city has to offer with an overnight vacation package at The Fairmont Hotel Chicago. 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Japan Travel Tips Japanese

Japan chat room - Japanese pen pal - how to travel in Japan - Japan travel tips - You are here: About > Travel > Japan for Visitors > Japanese Penpal / Chat Travel Go Japan Essentials Clickable Map of Japan Japan Pictures Japan Travel Tips Japanese Geisha Japan 101 - Fact about Japan Articles & Resources Japan Maps Picture of Japan / Web cams Best of Japan / Attractions Hotels/Accommodations Tokyo / Cities / Regions Japanese Translators Japanese Culture Etiquette / Living in Japan Japan Weather / Geography Japan History / Samurai Japanese Penpal / Chat Plan Your Trip to Japan Air Travel / Train Travel Restaurants / Japanese Food Japanese Gift / Japan Books Buyer's Guide Before You Buy Top Picks Japanese Gifts Product Reviews Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Japan for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search Japan for Visitors > Japanese Penpal / Chat Japanese Penpal / Chat Places to gather Japan travel tips - include how to travel and Japan chat rooms and Japanese pen pals. Subtopics Japan Bulletin Board (1) Japanese Pen Pal (5) Japan Chat Room (3) Articles & Resources Sort By : Guide Picks | Alphabetical | Recent Japan Travel Tips Hot Topics A list of my Japan travel tip articles. Japan Holiday Travel Tips Some tips for travelers in December and Jan. Packing for Japan You might be wondering what to bring for your trip to Japan. I will give you some packing tips and a list of items. Where to Go in Japan Where will you visit while you're there? I will give you some great ideas to make your trip memorable and fun. When to Go to Japan Now that you've decided to visit Japan, you maybe wondering when is the best time to take your trip. I will give you some ideas. 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 Japan Postcard - Japanese free email postcards - New Year's ... Japan Map - Nagano Prefecture Map - Map of Japan Universal Studios Japan Odaiba Photos Pictures of Japan - mount fuji picture - mt. fuji Photo Headlines Best Japan Photos in 2005 Which Japan photo gallery was viewed the most by visitors... Japanese New Year's Cards Sending New Year's cards to relatives, friends, teachers, classmates, and... Photo Gallery: Christmas Decorations in Japan Christmas in Tokyo Disneyland, Odaiba, Ebisu Garden Place, and more.... Christmas in Tokyo There are many fun events and beautiful Christmas illuminations to...

Mexico Travel Guide pages!

Mexico Travel Guide - Travel Tips Wednesday Dec 28th, 2005 Mexico Central Time Just like traveling to other parts of the world, there are some general concepts we suggest you think about while packing your luggage. Follow these suggestions so your visit to Mexico will be a success. Entry Requirements When To Go Getting Around Weather Considerations What To Bring Health Tips Money Exchange & Credit Tips For Seniors Entry Requirements Enter in Mexico Three items are needed to enter Mexico: A Photo I.D. (such as a Driver's License or a passport, starting at age 18 and above) A Tourist Card or F.M.N. A Valid Proof Of Citizenship • Tourist Card This two part document is your "permission" from the Mexican government to visit Mexico . It is available free of charge, although sometimes difficult to obtain in large quantities. The airlines always have an ample supply upon check-in. Or, if all else fails, you can obtain one in Mexican Immigration upon arrival. Here are a few words of advice about tourist cards: Do not lose or deface the bottom portion returned to you after the immigration inspection. It must be returned to Mexican Immigration upon departure. TIP: Write down your tourist card number and keep it with your travel documents. If the card is lost, having the number will help greatly. Keep your tourist card and travel documents in a secure place. Do not carry them with you everywhere you go, unless traveling extensively from your point of arrival. You can ask to have your card validated for more time (up to 180 days) than you'll actually need. • Proof of Citizenship Note: information regarding entry requirements is subject to change without notice, and should be reconfirmed with the airline being used for international travel. U.S. Citizens may use one of the following for entry into Mexico: Valid Passport: This is the most recommended document - secure and convenient. Certified Birth Certificate: (hospital certificate is not acceptable). A birth certificate must include your given name and surname, date and place of birth, date the birth record was filed, and seal or other certification of the official custodian of such records (usually the Department of Health Services in the city where you were born). Brides will have an easier time if tickets are issued in their maiden name to match their documents. For U.S. airport security purposes the name on the driver's license and the name on the ticket must match. Women traveling with tickets in their married name whose driver's license (or state issued ID) is in their married name, but who are using a birth certificate as proof of citizenship will be fine as long as the first name and date of birth on their driver's license and their birth certificate match. Natural U.S. Citizens born outside the United States may use a Certificate of Citizenship, a Report of Birth Abroad, a Consular Report of Birth (Form FS-240) or Certification of Birth (Form DS-1350 or FS-545). U.S. Naturalization: If you claim citizenship through naturalization you may use your Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship or laminated Naturalization card. Note: Some airlines/charter companies may still accept the Notarized Affidavit of Citizenship or possibly a Voters Registration Card. Canadian versions of the above documents are acceptable; notarized affidavits must be executed in Canada . The "Canadian Identification Card" is an acceptable proof of citizenship document as well. Mexican Citizens Here the rules are a little more lenient, although Mexican nationals must have some official document proving Mexican birth. For one way travel any one of the following is accepted: Passport: may be expired Birth Certificate (Acta de Nacimiento) Consular registration form (Matrícula Consular) Military Service Card (Cartilla Militar) Voter's Registration Card (Cédula de Empadronamiento) For round trip travel Mexican nationals must have all three of the following: Valid Passport or valid Matrícula Consular Alien Registration Card or U.S. visa A Military Service Card if traveler is 18 years of age or older. If none of the above are available, the nearest Mexican Consulate will issue a "presunción de nacionalidad." Traveler must provide two passport size pictures to obtain the document. Remember, alien residents must have proof of U.S. residency to return to the States. Other Nationalities Most foreign citizens traveling to Mexico from the U.S. need a valid passport and U.S. "Alien Registration" card only. Contact the airlines serving Mexico or the Mexican Consulate for more details or specific situations. For Student Visas contact the Mexican Consulate in your area. Minors Any person under 18 years of age is considered a minor for travel purposes. Very strict regulations govern international travel by minors into Mexico . Every minor must have a tourist card, proof of citizenship and sometimes other documents listed below. Minors traveling with both legal parents or guardians: nothing else is needed. Minors traveling unaccompanied or with anyone other than their legal parents or guardians: they must obtain an original notarized letter of permission signed by both parents. Minors traveling with only one parent: must have notarized written permission from the other parent. (Airlines will also require the name, address and phone of the person meeting the unaccompanied minor upon arrival in Mexico .) In the case of deceased or divorced parents: legal proof must be carried to accept just one signature on the letter. This proof (death certificate, proof of sole custody etc.) can also be shown to a notary who can then notarize an Affidavit of Sole Custody form. EXCEPTION: Mexican children often have a stamp on their passports that reads, "El titular del presente pasaporte viaja de conformidad con El Articulo 421 del Codigo Civil Vigente." This allows the child to travel with only one parent and without a notarized statement. • Entering Mexico Your first stop is at Mexican Immigration (Migración) where proof of citizenship is inspected, and tourist cards are validated. DON'T LOSE YOUR TOURIST CARD! Next stop is at Customs (Aduana). Mexico has instituted a European-style customs inspection system, with a twist. Here's the way it works: Visitors complete a customs declaration form. Visitors choose to either declare or not declare that they are importing items beyond their allowance. Those declaring items have their belongings searched, and duty is collected. Those not declaring items are asked to push a button on a street traffic light that is mounted on a post inside thecustoms area. A green light allows you to pass without inspection. A red light will signal an inspection. In the event that items are found that were not declared, heavy fines and penalties apply. You are allowed to bring in any of the following: Personal items, e.g. clothing, footwear, toiletries, all in reasonable quantities according to trip duration. Books and magazines medicine for personal use, with medical prescription in the case of psychotropic substances. Used or second-hand sporting equipment One portable T.V. set, one portable typewriter, and one VCR. Up to 20 records or cassettes A musical instrument Fishing equipment, a pair of skis, and two tennis rackets Three liters of alcohol or wine, if carrier is over 18 years old 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars, if carrier is over 18 years old One movie camera and one regular camera, and up to 12 rolls of film • Returning to the U.S. and Canada You are allowed to enter free of duty any purchases with a combined value of up to USD $400.00 For Canada the amount is CD $500.00 IF travelers have been outside of Canada at least seven days. This allowance may be claimed every 30 days. With a verbal declaration a returning Canadian resident can claim duty-free entry for articles (excluding tobacco products or alcoholic beverages) that do not exceed a total value of CD $20.00 upon return from each trip of more than 24 hours. For the U.S. this limit does not include items listed on the Generalized System of Preferences List (G.S.P.), which are allowed in duty free. Contact the U.S. Treasury Department for a detailed list (Dept. of the Treasury, U.S. Customs Service, Washington , D.C. 20229 ). Upon Arrival By Air You will receive two forms to fill out before you can enter Mexico. These are normally distributed by the airlines either at the ticket counter or while in transit. I know every airline representative will appreciate this next tip: Bring a ball point pen, preferably black. Don't expect to borrow one. With more than 200 fellow passengers there are never enough to go around. The first form is your temporary visa. The form has recently changed and may not be exactly as shown here. They are in several languages, you'll need one per person. Familiarize yourself with this one to avoid embarrassing mistakes later. Upon arrival at the airport you will first go through Customs, which is a simple review of your documentation and warm greeting from the Mexican Government Official. These are nice people, really! Save the stamped copy of which you will receive to exit the country. Back to top Your tourist card will be endorsed for a 30 day stay. If planning to stay more than a couple weeks, be sure to ask for the maximum entry of 180 days. Applying for a longer stay can be a hassle once in Mexico. Play it safe! The second form is for Hacienda which sounds like a nice house to visit, but is actually the Customs and Taxation arm of the government. You will need one of these forms per family. After passing through Immigrations, go to thebaggage area and collect your bags then proceed to the exit. Depending on your destination and size of the airport some of the following may differ. Hand the form to the Customs Agent and push the button on the 'traffic light'. Yes, that's right, a traffic light. It is set up to randomly turn green for Go or red for Stop and Inspect. I've never seen it turn yellow, but you may. If you do get a red light, they will kindly ask to see the contents of your bags. I don't think it need be said here, but I will: Don't be so foolish as to bring something illegal into Mexico. You know what I mean! Driving If you are driving into Mexico, check with your auto insurance carrier. Most companies exclude coverage in a foreign country. If you are involved in a traffic accident: - Do not loose your temper. You're not in Kansas. - Do not leave the place of the accident. - Cooperate with the legal authorities. - Do not sign any agreements nor accept any liability. - Contact your Mexican insurance company immediately. For detailed information please read Driving Into Mexico article . When to Go The travel industry designates several business seasons during the year, High, Swing or Low. If you are coming from the Northern Climes, you probably consider winter the only time to visit. However, persons from others areas of North America, Europe and including the Mexican nationals find the rest of the year equally enjoyable. They also find it quite a bit more affordable. Take advantage of these somewhat arbitrary dates and save yourself some money. The difference between a High Season vacation and a Swing or Low, may be as little as one day and it could save you hundreds of dollars. Other vacationers just prefer the country when there are fewer tourists. Back to top Getting Around the Country Rental Car Rental cars are available from the major rental companies. To rent you must be at least 25 years of age, have a valid driver's license and a major credit card. Be sure to reserve your vehicle before you leave home; this will ensure you the lowest rate and availability. Driving Hitting the byways in a foreign land might sound challenging to some, but to many its their favorite means of getting involved. Especially if you live in the southern reaches of the US, driving deep into Mexico is less than 48 hours away. Gasoline is available at stations throughout Mexico. It is sold in liters (3.78 liters = 1 gallon). Magna Sin (green pumps) is unleaded. Prices are about the same as in the U.S. Only cash is accepted and there is no self service (tips are customary for gasoline attendants). Most stations close by 10 PM. The highway systems between major cities is modern and similar to the freeways further North. What makes them unique is their dependence on toll funding rather than taxation to pay the development cost. So, you should expect to 'pay as you go'. Have a hefty handful of small bills available so you'll encounter no problems with making change. Auto insurance is a MUST, whether you are driving a rental car or your own. Don't expect your hometown agent to supply you with a policy that will be valid in Mexico. Most insurance companies explicitly exclude foreign countries from their coverage. If you have a question, contact your carrier. You will find insurance vendors on both sides of the border crossings. A better idea is to set up your insurance before you go. You might also find that it can be considerably cheaper to do it this way. Major highways are patrolled by Los Angeles Verdes (Green Angels). These government-operated pickup trucks are driven by mechanics . To date, Mexico is the only country with this service. It's free, except for parts and gas! Buses Mexico has a vast inter-city bus system that offers inexpensive, timely and convenient transportation. There are two grades of buses: First Class, with air conditioning and possibly a TV, and a stewardess serving soft drinks and snacks. And Second Class- with no frills. As Second Class costs slightly less than First Class, we recommend you go with First Class. Within the metropolitan centers buses offer the natives their primary means of transportation. For the tourist these can be a bit daunting at first, but when viewed with fun and adventure in mind, they can certainly add color and memories to your vacation. Train Train travel can be safer and more enjoyable than a trip by bus, but considerably more expensive. As with bus service, we recommend you pay for the highest class of travel available. Primera Especial class is recommended for day trips and the top-of-the-line Pullman compartments for overnight travel. Pullman service offers sleeping compartments suitable for one (camarin) or two (alcoba). Each converts to a comfortable sitting room during the day. Back to top Weather Considerations Mexico is made up of several different regions, each with its own type of seasonal weather, climate, altitude and terrain dictating what you will need to be prepared and comfortable. Generally, rains fall and temperatures rise from June through October, leaving November through May as the more temperate, drier season. Here's a regional climate overview: - Northern Baja California Despite the desert landscape, this region resembles Southern California: mild winters with a little rain; warm, dry summers. The Sea of Cortes tends to be warmer than the Pacific side of the peninsula. Annual average temperature: 68 degrees F or 20 degrees C. - Southern Baja California A subtropical desert, with over 350 days of sunshine a year, cool winter evenings, low humidity, sea breezes. Summer temperatures can be high, Generally cooler on the Pacific side. Annual average temperature: 77 degrees F or 25 degrees C. - Northwest Coast Similar to Northern Baja, but with more rain and some storms. Annual average temperature: 68 degrees F or 20 degrees C. - West Coast Also known as the Mexican Riviera, it has warm tropical weather year round. Warm, dry days and balmy evenings from November through May. The rainy season is June through October, with daily rain showers and warm temperatures. Annual average temperature: 77 degrees F or 27 degree C. - Central Plateau Due to higher elevation, it has pleasant spring-like conditions most of the year. Rain is frequent from June through September. Evenings can be quite cool in winter. Annual average temperature: 65 degrees F or 18 degrees C. - The Yucatan Peninsula In this region, proximity to the coast determines temperature and humidity. In summer, Gulf and Caribbean areas stay cooler due to trade winds, while interior jungles are humid, with higher temperatures. Rainfall is frequent from April through May and September through January; temperatures can be higher. September and October sometimes bring overcast or rainy conditions. Winters are very pleasant. Annual average temperature: 80 degrees F or 27 degrees C. - The Gulf Coast Somewhat humid, with warmer temperatures. Rainfall and cool brisk northerly winds (nortes) from September through February. Annual average temperature: 72 degrees F or 21 degrees C. Back to top What to Bring Be sure to include the following in your suitcase: - A pocket-size English/Spanish dictionary - A small first aid kit - Camera and Film - Walking Shoes - Suntan Lotion - Traveler's Checks & ATM cards - Swim Suits - Casual Dress Clothes for Nightlife and Fine Dining - Copies of your favorite Mexico Travel Guide pages! - Sunglasses & Hat - Necessary medications - Passport/Birth Certificate & Driver's License Health Tips In your quest for a good time on your vacation, your eating and drinking habits are often radically different than what you're used to back home. In addition, climate and altitude changes can throw your system off. To ensure you enjoy your vacation to its fullest, consider the following: Be sure to drink lots of fluids; especially the day before arriving. Try not to go overboard your first night. Give your body a chance to acclimate. Drink only distilled or bottled water. When buying fresh fruits and vegetables, be sure to wash them with distilled or bottled water before eating; peel them if possible. Back to top Money, Exchange & Credit The Mexican economy operates on the rise and fall of the Peso. While most businesses will accept foreign currency, especially US dollars, using pesos is your best bet. Foreign currency can be exchanged at one of many casas de cambio (exchange houses). Mexican banking hours are normally Monday-Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 P.M. however for money exchange the hours time are normally from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Casas de cambio are open later than most banks and they generally offer quicker service. Credit cards are widely accepted, with Visa, MasterCard, and American Express being the most popular. Check for Current Exchange Rate: Use Xenon Labs' currency exchange calculator to check the Mexican New Peso against your currency. Clicking on the search button will retrieve the current exchange rate for nearly 50 currencies. The rates are usually no more than a couple of days old. MXP Mexican Pesos Tips for Senior Travelers Retired travelers have a great advantage in planning their vacations. There are many advantages to having the freedom to plan a vacation without the hassles of work schedules. Many older travelers find that their favorite times to travel to Mexico are in off season months when there is less demand and less traffic through the resort cities. Usually the summer months are the least in demand due to high temperatures. This can be an advantage if you enjoy shopping and organized tours more than spending time at the beach. Most shops and tour buses are air-conditioned, so the heat shouldn't be much of a concern. The reduced numbers of tourists in the summer months makes getting around much easier, and there is usually more peace and quiet at night. There are a number of discount packages and group tour options for seniors. Your travel agent should have a list of the discounts that you're entitled to in the city that you'll be visiting. There are a number of senior citizens tour clubs that offer members the opportunity to go on tours with a familiar group of people in an organized tour that provides everything that you'll need. There are many senior citizen tour organizations across the nation, most of which your travel agent should be able to provide information about. Even if you don't like traveling in groups or with organized tours, you are entitled to a number of senior citizens discounts. When booking hotel reservations, always mention that you're a senior and ask about discount rates. At restaurants, mention it when you order, not afterward. Many places will refuse the discount if you don't mention it before a reservation or an order has been made. The infrastructure in Mexico is not as well-developed as it is in some countries. If you have a disability, you may find it difficult getting around some parts of Mexico. There are few wheelchair ramps and wheelchair access bathrooms in Mexico currently. In some cities, there aren't even stairway handrails. The sidewalks are typically narrower and aren't maintained as well. If you have any problems getting around, speak with your travel agent about the state of the city you'll be traveling to. Your travel agent should also be able to provide information about hotels which offer accommodations for people with disabilities. If you aren't content just to visit Mexico, it is possible to retire to Mexico permanently. Please click here to see an overview of how to begin the process of retiring to Mexico. Back to top Acapulco | Cancun | CopperCanyon | Cozumel | Guadalajara | Huatulco | Ixtapa | Los Cabos Manzanillo | Mazatlan | Mexico City | Monterrey | Oaxaca | Puerto Vallarta © 1995 - 2005 Let's Go2Mexico ® - All Rights Reserved - Powered by ® Go2 Producciones ernesto luna sierra

Disney Vacation Club Travel

Disney Vacation Club You are here: About > Travel > Florida for Visitors > Disneyworld > Disney Vacation Club Travel Florida for Visitors Essentials Events Calendar Photo Album Spring Break Guide Travel Planners What's Up this Month Articles & Resources A to Z Index Maps Beaches / Coasts Disneyworld Things to Do in FLA Daytona / East Coast Florida Keys Florida Panhandle Miami / South Florida Orlando / Central Florida Tampa / West Coast Discounts & Coupons Photos / Cams All About Florida Buyer's Guide Florida 2006 Calendars Florida Collegiate Fan Gifts Florida State Seminole Fan Gifts Tampa Bay Buccaneer Fan Gifts Top Disney Gifts Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Florida for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search Florida for Visitors Compliments of Walt Disney Company Stay up to date! Compliments of Walt Disney Company Email to a friend Print this page Suggested Reading Vacation Ownership 101 Elsewhere on the Web Disney Vacation Club Most Popular Florida Celebrates New Year Nude & Clothing-Optional Guide WDW Ticket Information Casino Cruises Ice Skating in Florida What's Hot Lion Country Safari Wide World of Sports Free Deals Ybor City Florida Day Trips Related Topics Theme Parks Travel with Kids Hotels / Resorts / Inns Budget Travel Senior Travel Disney Vacation Club From Dawn Henthorn , Your Guide to Florida for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Own a piece of the magic! Who's the leader of the club that's made for you and me? M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E! Inspired in part by Disney guests who frequented the Company's resorts and theme parks year-after-year, the Disney Vacation Club concept is stamped with Disney's special brand of imagination and innovation. Launched in October 1991, the Disney Vacation Club has now grown to include more than 63,000 member families from throughout North America and beyond, making it one of the most successful and highly rated vacation ownership programs. "Our decision to enter the vacation ownership business was a natural progression to accommodate our guests with a flexible vacation product designed to meet their ever-changing vacation needs as they pass through different phases of their life," said George Aguel, Senior Vice President/General Manager for Disney Vacation Development, Inc. Like many other vacation ownership programs, Disney Vacation Club is grounded in real estate ownership, but it has brought innovative new elements to its vacation ownership product. "Guests become members of the Disney Vacation Club because of the magical memories and traditions that are so engrained in the Disney experience," continued Aguel. "Anyone can sell accommodations – but only Disney can offer the experiential environment, the entertainment, and the imaginative programs that are so uniquely a part of our tradition." How does it work? Anchored by the purchase of a deeded real estate interest, membership provides guests with the freedom to tailor vacations to their personal needs as their family's vacation interests change over time. Unlike traditional timeshare programs, Disney Vacation Club members are not locked into a single week or fixed time period at a single resort. Disney Vacation Club membership is based on a "vacation point" system. Each year, members receive an annual allotment of vacation points that can be used in a variety of ways for different types of accommodations at a dazzling variety of resorts and for other vacation experiences, subject to availability. Members can also elect to bank or borrow vacation points, use their vacation points in combination with renting accommodations on a cash basis, or can purchase an additional real estate interest at any time. New members can join the club with an initial purchase of just over $11,000. Where can it be used? Disney Vacation Club membership may be used to reserve accommodations at the member's "home resort" or they may exchange reserved home resort accommodations to stay at other Disney Vacation Club resorts – Disney's BoardWalk Villas; Disney's Old Key West Resort; The Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge and Disney's Beach Club Villas (all at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida), Disney's Vero Beach Resort (Vero Beach, Florida), or Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort (Hilton Head Island, South Carolina) – at select Walt Disney World Resort properties, the Disneyland Resort hotels in Anaheim, California, and Disneyland Paris hotels in France. Additionally, through the Disney Vaction Club Member Getaways program, members have access to more than 200 premium resorts worldwide through an agreement with Interval International (II), one of the world's largest vacation ownership exchange companies, or they may select from an elite collection of world-renowned hotels, sample an adventure travel experience like an African safari, take a cruise (including Disney Cruise Line itineraries) and much more. What are the advantages? "The Disney Vacation Club is about quality, guest service, attention to detail and a world of choices," said Aguel. "Our members expect us to provide years of magical vacations and treasured memories at an excellent value. But, they also expect our Disney quality and personal service in planning their vacations." Additional unique advantages to membership include special benefits such as various Disney discount offers and professional travel planners that are just a phone call away. These Vacation Advisors help members plan their vacations and answer questions about DVC membership. Members further become part of the DVC 'family' through its Vacation Magic member newsletter that offers helpful program information, member stories, DVC resort travel tips, exclusive member merchandise and discounts/privileges and special previews of upcoming Disney events. 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 Lion Country Safari Wide World of Sports Free Deals Ybor City Florida Day Trips