Cruise Vacations - SuperClubs

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South America Travel |

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

Russia for Travelers - City Transit  You are here: About > Travel > Eastern Europe for Visitors > Ways to Travel > Metro Systems > Russia for Travelers - City Transit 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 Russian metro tokesn Stay up to date! Russian metro tokesn Email to a friend Print this page Elsewhere on the Web St Petersburg Metro Map Moscow Metro Map Moscow Tram Website 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 City Transit - Russia From Apply Now , Your Guide to Eastern Europe for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Russia Travel Guide Despite the proliferation of private vehicles in Russia in the last decade, the majority of residents still rely on public transportation to get around, especially for city travel. Therefore, if you also travel on city transit sytems, you'll have plenty of company. While you will find reasonable public transportation routes in larger cities, be prepared for limited options as you get off the beaten track. In all of Russia, only six cities have underground metro systems: Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, Nizhniy Novgorod, Novosibirsk, and Samara. Buses and trams supplement these systems and also are the main city transit vehicles in other areas. In general, public transportation in Russia needs infrastructure modernization but lack of funding keeps improvements minimal. The cost of public transportation in Russia is heavily subsidized, with costs ranging from four to 10 rubles (15-35 US cents). Moscow Moscow has four types of mass transit: the metro, trams, buses, and trolleybuses. Metro. Moscow's best public transportation is the metro. With over 200 stops, you can get to just about everywhere you want to in the city. Metro entrances are marked with "M" signs. It's worth a visit to the metro just to see some of the stations with their elaborate and beautiful architecture. Trains run very frequently, at least every two to three minutes. They can be very crowded during peak hours. Buses, Trolleybuses, Trams. Moscow has one kind of ticket for all three types of vehicles. You can buy them at kiosks or at metro stations, or from the conductor in the vehicle. When you get on board, look for a little metal box to punch your ticket. Don't lose your ticket until you get off. Taxis. There are a number of taxi companies in Moscow. Like elsewhere in Russia, avoid gypsy cabs by phoning ahead for a taxi or asking your hotel to arrange one for you. If you arrive at the Moscow airport, you will see a number of drivers clamoring for your business. It's better to go outside and line up at the taxi queue, where regulated taxis can be found. St. Petersburg The city offers a metro, buses, trams, trolleybuses, taxis and boats. Metro. The metro has four lines and 55 stations. You can pay with either tokens or passes purchased at stations. The metro runs from about 5:45 AM until around midnight. See the box at the upper right to see a map of the metro system. Trams. If you'd rather travel above ground, jump on a tram. Tram stops have a "T" on the signs near the tracks. Trams have conductors whom you can pay directly or show your monthly pass. Buses. Bus stops have an "A" on their signs (stands for avtobus). Regular buses also have conductors whom you can pay or show your pass. T-buses (taxi buses) and E-buses (express buses) take cash only and get you to your destination a bit faster. Marshrutki are passenger vans that cost only about three rubles (10 US cents) and take you to your destination. Trolleybuses. These vehicles are buses that are connected to overhead electric lines to give them power. Their signs are also marked by a "T." Taxis. Taxis are more expensive than mass transit. 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Asia Travel || Hong

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

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Panama, Central America - Travel Tourism Vacation Information  You are here: About > Travel > Mexico / Central America for Visitors > Panama Travel Go Mexico Essentials Packing List for Travelers to Mexico Health Information Mexico / C. America Safety Considerations Travel Books Mexico and Central America Tourism Offices Mexico/ Central America Articles & Resources Mexico Mexico City Acapulco, Mexico Cancun Yucatan Baja Los Cabos Puerto Vallarta Other Places Photos of Mexico Belize, Central America Costa Rica El Salvador Guatemala Honduras Nicaragua Panama Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Mexico / Central America for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses   Search Mexico / Central America for Visitors > Panama Panama, Central America - Travel Tourism Vacation Information A selection of online travel related resources to the country of Panama, Central America, with information on accommodations, attractions, history, culture, geography and more. Panama Travel Tourism Vacation Information for Visitors. Articles & Resources Sort By : Guide Picks | Alphabetical | Recent Panama Canal Take a memorable cruise through the Panama Canal - the "Eighth Wonder of the World". Find out more information here. Eco Travels in Panama Learn about Panama's ecotourism opportunities. Includes information on bird-watching, tropical hikes and other attractions. Focus Panama - Panama City Panama City is one of Central America's most vibrant cities. This site provides a good description of Panama City and includes suggestions on what to do and see there. Panama - Consular Information Sheet This official U.S. State Department site provides useful travel advice and warnings for visitors to Panama. Also lists U.S. consulate addresses in Panama. Panama Travel Obtain some good general advice for touring in Panama. Also, get answers to frequently asked questions about Panama. Panama Visitors Info This site tells you what you need to bring with you on a trip to Panama. It also has maps of Panama and information on the people and climate. Recommendations on what to see in Panama and some safety tips are also offered. Panama Canal Zone Read an interesting account of a family's recent trip to the Panama canal. Some excellent photos are included on the site. Travel Panama Panama is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination. This site provides information on the history, environment and culture found in the San Blas Archipelago, Darien Jungle, Canal Zone, Pacific Lost Coast and the Bocas Archipelago areas.        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 Buying Real Estate in Mexico Puerto Vallarta Cozumel, Mexico Whale Watching Fishing In Mexico Headlines Top 6 Travel Books for Mexico and Central America There are many travel guidebooks devoted to Mexico and to... Health Information for Visitors to Mexico and Central America This article provides a summary of the more important health... Safety Considerations for Travelers to Mexico and Central America Travel to Mexico and Central America is not significantly less... Acapulco, Mexico Once a favorite destination of honeymooners, celebrities and the...