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Travel Insurance from MEDEX : International Medical and Travel Insurance including Assistance and Evacuation services. Purchase Online Member Center Login username password " style="height:17px; font-size:9px" Create Account Login Help ABOUT MEDEX | NEWS ROOM | TRAVEL LINKS | SITEMAP | CONTACT Purchase Travel Insurance Welcome To MEDEX Assistance Today's global travelers recognize the need for travel insurance and emergency assistance. The world's leading multinational corporations, global insurance providers, most noteworthy scholastic organizations and individual business or leisure travelers alike, recognize MEDEX as a top-notch provider of worldwide travel assistance, international travel insurance and travel medical insurance. Whether it's coordinating an air ambulance evacuation out of Venezuela, finding an English-speaking specialist in Beijing, contingency planning in Jakarta or providing medical case management in Germany, MEDEX has the resources and experience to provide efficient, quality assistance. MEDEX Assistance Coordinators are just a phone call away, available via worldwide toll-free access numbers. We utilize highly-trained, multilingual coordinators in conjunction with an extensive information and communication system to assist international travelers with all types of medical, security and other travel-related emergencies. Available anytime, from anywhere, MEDEX creates the prepared traveler by providing destination intelligence and emergency assistance. Our global intelligence database is updated 24/7, so we can respond with the latest, authoritative information and guidance. MEDEX began helping travelers and expatriates in 1977. Operating from a centralized coordination center in the United States, MEDEX has worldwide coverage, international assistance expertise, and an unsurpassed provider network. Individual Leisure, Scholastic and Business Travelers MEDEX offers a full line of TravMed insurance to provide worldwide travel insurance and 24-hour assistance for every traveler. For business travel or family vacations, purchase short term medical insurance. For frequent travelers, purchase our annual travel insurance. For students requiring traveler insurance for a study abroad program, MEDEX offers evacuation, repatriation and medical coverage to supplement your student health insurance program. For expatriates, MEDEX offers a comprehensive individual program for expatriate health insurance. Whether you are searching for international travel insurance, medical or security assistance, trip insurance or an emergency medical kit and help with safe travel preparations, MEDEX is the solution. Browse our web site for more information, request a quote and purchase travel insurance online. Corporations Large, multinational corporations and small to mid-size companies count on MEDEX to protect their travelers from unexpected medical, security and travel-related emergencies. Protect your human assets with access to our 24-hour multilingual assistance center, and cover any potential evacuation costs your company may incur. MEDEX experts can also provide pre-travel advice, destination intelligence and contingency planning among other offerings. Contact MEDEX to learn more about our group programs for employee benefits, expatriate populations and executive travel programs. Insurance Companies MEDEX provides valuable service enhancements, product differentiation and cost containment solutions to insurance companies. Contact MEDEX to learn more about how our worldwide recognition and portfolio of services can improve your business. USAID contractors, NGOs, Government Organizations MEDEX has enjoyed an 11 year relationship with USAID and related contractors worldwide, to provide medical evacuation services to USAID contractors and their dependents at discounted rates. Request more information online and apply for coverage. MEDEX also provides coverage to many state and national government entities and NGOs to protect the health and safety of their employees and/or contractors. Request more information online or contact MEDEX to enroll. Scholastic Groups MEDEX offers an invaluable emergency support system to scholastic organizations and provides peace of mind to faculty, students and parents. MEDEX scholastic clients include many premier universities and study abroad administrators who are showing that they not only care about a student's education, but their health and safety too. Request more information online or contact MEDEX for a group quote. Individual evacuation, repatriation and medical coverages for students are available for purchase online. HIPAA Compliance Notice INFO REQUEST CAREERS NEWSLETTER MEDEX RETAIL INDIVIDUALS INSURANCE COMPANIES CORPORATIONS GOVERNMENT ENTITIES SCHOLASTIC GROUPS DESTINATION REPORTS MEDICAL KITS MEDEX AFFILIATES GET YOUR FREE COPY MEDEX Special Report on AVIAN FLU Available for download today!

Hotel Travel

hotel-travel Hotel and Travel Info The first new major hotel to grace Miami Beach in the last 30 years, the Loews Miami Beach Hotel offers an elegant setting by the sea. 800 rooms designed in classic Art Deco style, most with spectacular views. A uniquely designed ocean front swimming pool and direct access to 800 feet of sandy beach. Supervised Childrens Program. All this in the heart of SOUTH BEACH & Lincoln Road ! The Loews Miami Beach Hotel tends to sell-out quickly for this event. We cannot stress enough the importance of making your reservations EARLY! PHONE In US or Canada: 1-877-563-9762 International 1-305-604-1601 Request the Group Rate for the 23rd Annual Miami Breast Cancer Conference! After January 26, 2006, reservations will be accepted based on availability only. Special daily HOTEL rates for this meeting are: $258.00 , single occupancy $278.00 , double occupancy These rates apply 3 days prior and 3 days after the meeting, subject to availability. One nights deposit is required. Travel Arrangements Special discounts on major airlines are available to all registrants by calling TRAVELEADERS Toll-Free: 800-448-7058, ext. 298 OR 472 Or, fax your travel requirements & contact information to: 305-648-8205 One call does it all: Airline ticketing, car rental, additional tourist or travel information! [ Home ] [ Program '06 ] [ Faculty '06 ] [ Register ] [Hotel-Travel] [ CD/DVD '05 ] CONTACT US: Phone/Fax: 954-888-9472 E-Mail: info@cancerconf.com Address: P.O. Box 266948 Weston, FL 33326 © 1997-2005; Miami Cancer Conference; All Rights Reserved

Cruise Vacation Planner Click

Europe Vacation, Europe Travel, Luxury Cruises in Europe, Europe Tours and Europe Hotel Guide Europe Vacation, Europe Travel, Luxury Cruises in Europe, Europe Tours Europe Vacation Guide: Romantic Europe Tours and Honeymoons Europe Luxury Vacations, Travel, Tours and Cruise Consultants Call 1 800 330 8820 to book your European Vacation, Tour or Cruise. Other Places in Europe Albania Andorra Austria Vacations Belarus Belgium Vacations Bosnia-Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Vacations Czech Republic Denmark Vacations England Vacations Estonia Finland Vacations France Vacations Georgia Germany Vacations Greece Vacations Hungary Vacations Iceland Ireland Vacations Italy Vacations Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Vacations Macedonia Monaco Vacations Netherlands Vacations Norway Vacations Poland Vacations Portugal Vacations Romania Vacations Russia Vacations Slovakia Slovenia Spain Vacations Sweden Vacations Switzerland Vacations Turkey Vacations Ukraine United Kingdom Vacations Wales Vacations Luxury Cruise Guides Luxury Cruises World Luxury Cruises European River Cruises Europe Cruises Mediterranean Guide Travel Agent Career Opportunities Europe Vacation, Travel and Luxury Cruise Guides In this section you will find great Europe luxury resorts and hotels . All-inclusive European vacations for every country. We also specialize Romantic European river cruises . You'll find fabulous h oneymoon destinations in the guide. Europe luxury y achting vacations. Europe cruises , Europe Ski Vacations . Europe g uided & escorted tours ---Plus tons of enjoyable maps , virtual tours and streaming videos---You will find everything here except the sunscreen. Europe-Travel We provide vacation accommodations in British and Irish castles, quaint village inns, classic country houses, French chateaux, Italian villas, German inns, Spanish paradors, Portuguese pousadas, Scandinavian country houses, and many more small, charming hotels throughout Europe. Travelwizard.com offers custom, premium class, personalized, Europe luxury travel related services, exclusive boutique vacation destinations and exotic tours designed specifically for the sophisticated traveler . Central Eastern & Western Europe Packages England-Ireland Vacation & Tour Packages France Vacation & Tour Packages Italy Vacation & Tour Packages Scandinavia & Russia Tour Packages Portugal Tour Packages Greece Luxury Tours Spain & Morocco Tour Packages Imagine people watching at a sidewalk cafe, viewing the world's most famous pieces of art or visiting historic sites like Vatican City, Big Ben, the Eiffel Tower or the Acropolis. We've been customizing European vacation itineraries for discriminating travelers for more than 20 years. European Villas, former European palaces, elegant European hotels and yachts are part of Europe's unique accommodations that provide the perfect base for exploring the character of Europe. Select exactly the components you want in your vacation. You choose your hotel, room category -from sea views to suites-, rental car, private transfers and customized European sightseeing tours. We do it all! Our Virtuoso European Travel and Cruise Consultants will create the European Vacation you have always dreamed of. Why Should You Use our Virtuoso Europe Luxury Vacation, Travel and Cruise Specialists ? We are Specialists in the Art of Travel. Described by Conde Nast Traveler as "one of the finest agencies...a reliable indicator of experience, knowledge, and industry clout." We are recommended by the Discovery Travel Channel, the Today Show, Conde Nast Traveler, Forbes Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Fine Living TV, and the Neiman Marcus Awards Program. All of us at Travelwizard.com have a sincere passion for travel. We throughly enjoy our work, the exciting places we explore, the wonderful people we meet, and would be thrilled to share this passion with you! Europe vacations are by far the most popular for a number of reasons. The diversity of the European cultures, incredible history, romantic settings, fine cuisine, excellent yachting, water sports, skiing resorts, mountain climbing, bicycling tours, winery tours, you name it, Europe has it all! Vacationing in Europe is a great way to experience many countries, meet interesting people, try their wonderful cuisine, and see some of the finest art in the world. A paradise of sun, sea, rivers, mountains and lakes. A land of historic treasures from the world's ten greatest civilizations. The Mediterranean, Aegean, and the Black Seas, the French Riviera, the Italian Riviera all beckon you. Europe is a must! Travelwizard.com was picked by the NBC Today Show to orchestrate the perfect honeymoon destination for their "Throws a Wedding" show. We are very proud that the Today Show turned to Travelwizard.com to find the perfect honeymoon. Travelwizard.com's renowned South Pacific specialists designed the perfect honeymoon to Turtle Island, in Fiji that was chosen for the NBC Today Show. Click here for Europe Hotels and Luxury Villas Europe vacation destinations requires minimal planning, but offers a spectacular experience! A European vacation is perfectly suited for all lifestyles. Whether you want a romantic European vacation, a natural or adventurous experience by day, sleep in a luxurious hotel by night, racing along the Autobahn, taking wine tasting classes in Bordeaux or cooking classes in Tuscany, you'll find it all in Europe! Europe vacation cruising and Europe yachting and barge trips are becoming extremely popular, and a great way for families to enjoy Europe at its finest. Advance planning Europe vacation will save time and money; make a short list of places you want to see and activities you hope to undertake. Do a little research with this site and its links to the sites of individual countries. Apply for a passport if you don't have one. The process is not difficult. Details are found in the Planning Your Trip section for U.S. passports. When you know where you want to go, how much time you have and how much you can spend, consult with one of our travel consultants, especially if it's your first international trip. He or she can speed your planning, give you good ideas, and book your entire vacation. Consider buying travel packages for ease of purchase and to save money. These range from basic air-car-hotel packages for independent travelers to group tours and cruises. On a Europe vacation you don't have to worry about language. English is widely spoken far beyond Britain and Ireland. On much of the Continent it is the most widely spoken second language; most people working in tourism will speak English. Families with young children will find a warm welcome in Europe. Book Your Europe Vacation Submit a vacation planner to our Europe Travel Specialists Client Testimonials about our services Search Your Vacation, Tour or Cruise Luxury Europe Accommodations Europe Luxury Hotels European Hotels European Luxury Villas Europe Luxury Tours Virtuoso Scandinavia Luxury Vacation Virtuoso Europe Luxury Vacation Central Eastern & Western England & Ireland Tours Ireland Luxury Tours Monaco Luxury Tours Scandinavia Luxury Tours Russia Luxury Tours Greece Luxury Tours Portugal Tour Packages Spain & Morocco Tour Packages Escape to Europe Cruises France Luxury Tours Italy Luxury Tours Europe Train Vacations Europe River Cruises Eastern Europe Packages Europe Bike Vacations Europe Ski Vacations Europe Active Vacations Moderatly Priced Europe Tours England & Ireland Tours France Vacations Italy Tours Central & Eastern Europe Tours European River Cruises Europe Luxury Cruises Royal Caribbean Europe Cruises NCL Europe Cruises Crystal Cruises Northern Europe Virtuoso Luxury European Cruises Western Europe Cruises European River Cruises Luxury Cruises World Luxury Cruises Helpful Travel Links Other Helpful Travel Links Instant Passports in 24 hours Travelex Luxury Travel Insurance CSA Luxury Travel Insurance Travel Guard Insurance Travel Safety Expert Current Travel Warnings Travel Agent Career Opportunities Bookmark this page Full Service Luxury Europe Vacation Planner Click here to save money, time and stress planning, making reservations, or booking your luxury vacation with our full service Virtuoso Travel Consultants. We are recommended, authorized Virtuoso Vacation Specialists, and can arrange every little detail to make sure you have a wonderful, carefree cruise experience at no extra charge! You may call our Virtuoso Vacation Specialists, but first, we'd really appreciate it if you complete our "Luxury Vacation Planner" so we have all your requirements beforehand and are prepared to present you with all your options and up-to-the-minute specials. Thank you very much! Call 1- 800 -330 -8820 to book your Europe vacation . Full Service, Worldwide Luxury Europe Tour Vacation Planner Click here to save money, time and stress planning, making reservations, or booking your luxury tour vacation with our full service Virtuoso Luxury Tour Consultants. We can arrange every little detail of your tour vacation, including air, and pre-tour and post-tour arrangements to make sure you have a wonderful, carefree vacation experience at no extra charge! When you complete our "Luxury Tour Vacation Planner" our Europe Specialists will promptly call you, provide you with their direct toll free telephone number, all your options, and up-to-the-minute specials . Call 1- 800 -330 -8820 to book your Europe tour vacation . Full Service, Luxury Europe Cruise Vacation Planner Click here to save money, time and stress planning, making reservations, or booking your luxury cruise vacation with our full service Virtuoso Luxury Cruise Consultants. We can arrange every little detail of your cruise vacation, including air, excursions, and pre-cruise and post-cruise arrangements, to make sure you have a wonderful, carefree vacation experience at no extra charge! When you complete our " Luxury Cruise Vacation Planner" our Virtuoso--Specialists will promptly call you, provide you with their direct toll free telephone number, all your options, and up-to-the-minute specials . Call 1- 800 -330 -8820 to book your Europe luxury cruise . 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All of our promotions are subject to change without notice. As a result, prices will not be guaranteed until booked. State of California seller of travel License # 2061139-40 We are on the Better Business Bureau Honor Roll. Travel Agent Career Opportunities Contact Information Advertise with Travel Wizard 1998 TravelWizard.Com, Europe Vacation Dept. All rights reserved.

Asia Travel

PHILIPPINES TRAVEL INFORMATION Philippines Country Information The Land || History || The People || First-time Traveler Tips || Visas || Customs || Currency || Weather Clothing || Utilities || Newspapers & Media || Business Hours || Language || Getting Around Modes of Transport || Weather Conditions || Things to Know || Sightseeing || Museums and Art Further Information The Land The Philippines is an archipelagic nation made up of 7,107 islands spanning 1,840 kilometers north to south. It is part of the East Indies, a vast island group lying south and east of mainland Asia, with Taiwan at its northernmost coast and Borneo on the south. The three main Philippine island groups are Luzon , the Visayas and Mindanao . Luzon is the island of contrasts. The most modern districts in the Philippines , including the capital city of Manila , are in Luzon , but so are some of the oldest tribal communities in the nation like the Ifugao of the Cordilleras. Luzon is also where a visitor can see the latest model luxury cars overtaking a carabao sled or modern skyscrapers within driving distance of primordial volcanos. The Visayas is famous for its charm, a trait shared by many other southern regions in the world, but here seems to run deeper among a people who are intrinsically connected to their sun soaked island home. The Visayas is also famous as a seat of history, being one of the earliest landfalls of western voyagers. It has also gained a reputation as being a cradle of the nation's future, if the unprecedented economic growth of Cebu City continues. Mindanao is our offering to the Guinness Book of Records with the world's largest clam, the world's largest Eagle, the nation's highest peak and the world's largest city. Mindanao is also home to the Philippines' Muslim population. With a land mass of 300, 780 square kilometers, the Philippines is considered a medium-sized nation, about two- thirds the size of its first colonizer, Spain, and a little larger than the British Isles. Manila is only one hour and 40 minutes from Hong Kong by jet; Sydney only 7 1/2 hours away. Flights to Europe take 17 hours and to the American west coast 15 hours. The Philippines has many things to offer the visitor: a mixture of the old and the new, a diversity of art and culture and a warm, friendly people. Blessed by nature, the Philippines has something to offer every sportsman too . . . extraordinary dive sites, forests to roam, mountains to climb, caves to explore. Top History Situated on the crossroads of Asia, on the eastern rim of the China Sea, the Philippines has hosted voyagers, migrants and traders since the dawn of history. That it was the center of lively Asian trade route that stretched all the way to China and Japan can be seen from the relics these early visitors left behind. Among our archaeological treasures is a Neolithic spirit boat typical of early Southeast Asian culture. The West discovered the Philippines when Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese explorer who sailed for Spain, landed in Cebu in 1521. However, colonization didn't actually begin until 1565, when Miguel Lopez de Legazpi established a Spanish base in the town of Manila. Because Philippine society was loosely organized, without a central government, the Spanish conquest was rapid and total. Only the Muslims in the south and some inaccessible hill tribes were able to resist Spanish influence. Along with the Spanish conquerors came a new religion, Christianity, a new language, new laws and the galleon trade. Despite several uprisings against Spain, including the Katipunan, a revolutionary movement inspired by Dr. Jose Rizal and led by Andres Bonifacio, it was the United States of America that broke the Spaniard's grip on the Philippines. Unfortunately, that began the nation's second period of colonization. Once again there was resistance, this time led by Emilio Aguinaldo; but his rag-tag army was no match for Admiral Dewey's forces. In 1901, with Aguinaldo's capture, the Americans were entrenched. The Americans brought over their educational system, their legal system and planted the seeds of their own style of government. In 1935, the Philippines became an American commonwealth country with Manuel Luis Quezon as president. The status quo ended with the Japanese Occupation; and it wasn't until 1946, after the end of the Pacific war, that the Philippines finally regained true independence as the Republic of the Philippines under the presidency of Manuel Roxas. Still one of the strongest democracies in Asia, the current president is Joseph Ejercito Estrada. Top The People Halo-halo is a Filipino word that means mixture. While it describes a popular dessert, it could also describe the Filipinos. They look like Asians, write and speak English like Americans, worship like Spaniards, and have an outlook that is international. Like the Southern Chinese, the Thai, Malay, Indonesian and Burmese, the modern-day Filipino traces his remotest genetic lines back to an Australoid and Mongoloid stock. You will also find a touch of Caucasian, Chinese, Indian and Arabic in their gene pool as well. But to truly understand the Filipino, you have to look at the land. The historic isolation between islands and the topographic isolation on each island, become the primary influence governing regional traits and societal behavior. This diversity makes Filipinos all the more interesting. However, what is apparent isn't how different they are from each other, but rather how alike they are. Brought together by a common history, and looking forward to a common future, it is not surprising to find a sharing of certain traits. Their warmth, graciousness and hospitalityall part of the Filipino psychewill make your stay a delight. Top Tips for First-time Philippine Travelers Generally speaking, it is important to travel light. Bring only what's necessary. Avoid the extra baggage. You don't want to pay exorbitant fees for your luggage service. As in any foreign place, be careful with pickpockets. Some might act as a helpful stanger, but they're out to get something from you! It's good to be cautious at all times. Whenever going outdoors, being in a group is recommended. If you're bringing kids with you, make sure to bring all the things they would need, like medicine, bottles of potable water (although many bottled water is available, it is always recommended to bring one), and one of your kids' favorite toys for their own receration. Top Visas If you are coming from America, Asia or Europe with a valid passport, and either a return ticket or a ticket to another destination outside the Philippines you may enter without a formal visa and stay for 21 days. If you wish to stay longer you must obtain a Visa Extension either before your trip from a Philippine Consulate or Embassy. Or, once here, you may obtain it from the Bureau of Immigration. Customs Upon Arriving: Visitors are allowed to bring in duty free personal belongings, two cartons of cigarettes or two tins of pipe tobacco and up to one liter of alcohol. Balikbayans have separate rules and should check with the Embassy or Consulate in their home city. You may bring in unlimited amount of foreign currency. Upon Leaving: Any antiques you may have acquired during your stay must be accompanied by a certificate from the National Museum. You may also not take more than PhP5,000.00 (five thousand Philippine pesos) out of the country. Currency The currency in the Philippines is the Peso (PhP) and the Centavo. 100 centavos = P1. Coin denominations are: 1, 5, 10, and 25 centavos, P1, and P5. Bill denominations are : 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1, 000 pesos. Foreign currency may be exchanged at your hotel, and in most of the large department stores, banks and authorized money changing shops. Exchanging money anywhere else is illegal and the laws are strictly enforced. Most large stores, restaurants , hotels and resorts accept major credit cards including American Express , Visas and MasterCard. Traveller' s checks preferably American Express are accepted at hotels and large department stores. Personal checks drawn on foreign banks are generally not accepted. Top Weather The Philippines is tropical with just two seasons--hot and dry from November to June, and rainy from July to October. Filipinos will tell you that it is cool from December through February and they themselves will wear jackets. Clothing People in the Philippines dress for the weather (HOT!) Casual attire during the day for women are light blouses and shorts. For men collared T- shirts worn over slacks. In the evening skirts are substituted for shorts and the T-shirts are tucked in. For Men Only: If you expect to have to attend any occasion which would usually require a jacket and a tie (which is torture in this weather) there is a wonderful substitute. Go immediately to a department store and buy a barong tagalog. It is an embroidered shirt that is considered a formal dress. It will cost more or less PhP1,000.00, but it is worth every centavo. Utilities Electricity is 220 volts a/c. Many of the major tourist hotels also have 110 volt a/c outlets. Water supply in Metro Manila and in all the other major cities are considered potable. Bottled purified water, spring water or mineral water is often supplied by hotels and resorts, and sold in all grocery stores. Telephone service is modern and you can direct dial anywhere in the world. Public phones are plentiful. Public phones require a minimum of two one-peso coins for a local call. Some Important Telephone Numbers: (24-Hour Hotline) Police & Fire: 757 or 116 Emergency No.: 501- 650 or 501- 728 Directory Assistance: 114 National Operator: 109 International Operator: 108 For other emergency numbers, please refer to Directory . NOTE: It is advisable to always have the telephone number and the address of your embassy or consulate with you. Top Newspapers & Other Media The newspapers in the Philippines have been called the freest in the world, as you will see for yourself, with more than 24 different morning papers to choose from, most of them in English. There is also a wide selection of magazines printed in English including Time, Newsweek and Asiaweek. In Metro Manila you can buy the Asian Wall Street Journal, The International Herald Tribune and USA Today. Television is "on the air" from early morning to midnight, showing American programming as well as local programming. The standard channels are 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 13, and 23. If you need more channels, most of the major hotels are with Cable TV bringing in TV programs from all over the world. There is also AM and FM radio broadcasting with the pop stations primarily on AM in Filipino and the English language programs on FM. Top Business Hours Most businesses are open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays and 8:00 AM till noon Saturdays. Banks are open from 9:00 AM till 3:00 PM Mondays through Fridays. When banking in the Philippines, it is advisable to have your passport with you for identification. The post offices are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekdays only. Stamps for postcards are frequently available from the Concierge Desk at most major hotels. The Philippines uses ZIP codes, please include them in addressing local mail. NOTE: The Standard lunch hour is noon to 1:00 PM. Most businesses and government offices are closed. Language While there are over 100 regional languages in the Philippines, the national language is Filipino, with English as the most widely spoken second language. All business, governmental and legal transactions are conducted in English. Top Getting Around There are four modes of public transport in Metro Manila and surprisingly, they are easy to use. Buses : Both air-conditioned and regular buses travel most of the major routes in Metro Manila. On an air-con bus a short ride costs PhP 9.00, adding a few peso for every succeeding kilometer. The regular bus' minimum fare is PhP 4.00. Just tell the conductor where you are going and he will tell you how much it costs. Keep your bus receipt as it is your proof of payment. Jeepneys : Called "folk arton wheels," jeepneys ply most of Manila's secondary roads and even a few major thoroughfares. They're as much fun to ride on as they are to look at and you have to try one. Although there are regular stops, you can often just flag one down and hop on. Call out "bayad" (bah-yhad) and pay the driver. If you are too far back, pass your PhP 4.00 (minimum fare for the first 4 kilometers; 1 peso additional for every succeeding 500 meters) down. When you are ready to get off, call out "para" (pah-rah); wait till he slows down and jump. The LRT : It's a fast, cheap way to go to downtown Manila. A token can take you between Monumento (the northern end of Edsa) and Baclaran, travelling first along Rizal Avenue and then Taft Avenue. Many of the tourist maps have the route of the LRT marked. The MRT : After it's somewhat unsuccessful opening, the MRT is now enjoying a fair share of passengers plying EDSA. This is definitely the fastest mode of transport, this side of the metropolis. The MRT runs from the North Avenue Station in Quezon City up to Taft Avenue Station in Pasay City. Passengers would enjoy the traffic-less route, clean stations and coach, with a good view of Metro Manila's landscape. The only problem is that some stations have very high stairways. Although a number of elevators is operational, not all stations have one. Travel time is approximately 20 minutes end to end. Taxis : Air-conditioned taxis cost PhP25.00 on the meter and an additional PhP 2.00 is added for every succeeding 200 meters to the final cost. Non-airconditioned taxis do not ply anymore. Taxis are always lined up at the major hotels and tourist restaurants and can be hailed on the street. If you take a taxi, make sure the driver turns on the meter. If he gives you a story that it is broken, get out and take another taxi. Unless you are taking a long trip or the traffic is unusually horrible, most taxi rides should be well under P100. At least a 10% tip is expected. Top Other Modes of Transport Most of the major car rental agencies, including AVIS, Budget, and Hertz have offices in Metro Manila and carry a full line of vehicles from jeeps to limousines. All vehicles may be rented with or without a driver. If you wish to do your own driving you must have a valid foreign or international license. Inter-island transportation is provided by either airplane or ferry boat. Philippine Airlines services most of the major provincial airports. Cebu Pacific, Asian Spirit, SeaAir, Air Philippines, and Pacific Airways are smaller carriers servicing more remote tourist destinations. For information about boat schedules, check with the Department of Tourism on T.M. Kalaw Street, Manila (63-2-5267652, 5267653, 5267655). Top WEATHER CONDITIONS & GEOGRAPHY Climate: Tropical (two seasons) Dry Season: March -May (warm) 33-34 C Wet Season: June- October (monsoonal) November -February (coolest) 29-31C Coastline: 334,539 km. Terrain: Many of the islands in the Philippines are extinct volcanoes and atolls. On the larger islands, many mountains, rainforests, rich valleys and swamp regions. The Philippines still does have thermal activity consisting of active volcanoes and hot springs. Top THINGS TO KNOW Language: Filipino (based on Tagalog dialect) is the National Language. The American occupation was responsible for teaching the English Language. The Philippines is currently the third largest English speaking country in the world. Currency: Peso(PhP). Notes are issued in denominations of , PhP 10, PhP 20, PhP 50, PhP 100, PhP 500, and PhP 1000. Coins are issued for 5c, 10c, 25c, PhP 1, PhP 5. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, hotels and authorized exchanged dealers. Outside of Manila payments are preferably made in pesos. Major Travellers Cheques are widely accepted. Major Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express and Diners Club) can be used to pay for most goods and services. Bank Hours: Banks are open 9am-3pm Mon-Fri (except public holidays). Shop Hours: Most shops operate 10am-7.30pm daily (except public holidays). Time : Local time is GMT plus 8 hours. Business English is the language used. Sexual equality is more widespread in the Philippines than in other Asian countries. Make sure you have business cards. Top SIGHTSEEING Casa Manila: A replica mid 19th Century house, recreating the Intramuros lifestyle of upper class Filipinos at this time. Corner Real and General Lunar Streets, Intramuros, Manila. Luzon Chocolate Hills : Bohols most famous attraction: the area is named thus, because of the rich grass which covers them turns brown in summer. Carmen Town, Bohol. Visayas* Colon Street: The oldest street in the Philippines located in the heart of Cebu. Cebu. Visayas* Nagcarlan Underground Cemetery: The only underground cemetery in the Philippines; it served as a meeting place for the revolutionary leaders in Laguna. Laguna, Luzon Island Magellans Cross: The most historically-famous landmark in Cebu. Planted by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, it marks the place where the first Christian Filipinos were baptized. Cebu. Visayas* Top PARKS & WILDLIFE Katibawasan Falls: These 250-foot falls cascade down to a pool surrounded by orchids and other rich tropical flora- 4 km from Mambajao. Camiguin. Mindinao* Maquinit Hot Springs : Located on a scenic beach corner, this is the premium hot spring in the Philippines. Palawan. Luzon* Hidden Valley: A natural recluse is created within this 90-meter crater . A haven for lush jungle life, natural springs and still water pools. Accommodation available. Alaminos, Laguna. Luzon, Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife: Quezon Avenue. Quezon City. Luzon. Rizal Memorial Park: Within the lush park there are monuments, a skating rink and adventure playground. Free concerts every Sunday. Ermita, Manila. Luzon. Top MUSEUMS AND ART GALLERIES Museums & art galleries Ateneo Art Gallery Quezon City Tel: (02) 998 721 Metropolitan Museum of Manila Tel: (02) 832 3645 National Museum Manila Tel: (02) 494 450 Villa Escudero San Pablo City, Quezon City Tel: (02) 521 8698 Top VISAS AND PASSPORTS Visa and Passport No Visas are required for foreigners entering the country for a stay no longer than 21 days provided that you have valid passports and tickets to leave the Philippines. Visas are required only for stateless persons and citizens of countries with which the Philippines have no diplomatic relations. A temporary visitor's visa is required for those who are planning to stay up to 59 days. Vaccination certificates may be neccesary for long term stays. Holders of Hongkong and Taiwan passports need special permits. All visas and permits may be obtained from Philippine embassies and consulates. Duty Free Items: Two 1-litre bottles of alchohol, and two cartons of cigarettes are allowed. Air Travel to the Country : Ninoy Aquino International Airport (7 km from city centre) Ninoy Aquino Avenue Manila, Philippines: Mactan International Airport Cebu, Philippines: (Most major airlines have flights to the country). Top FURTHER INFORMATION Department of Tourism: T.M. Kalaw Street Rizal Park Metro Manila P.O. Box 3451 Tel: (02)523-8411 Fax: (02) 521 7374 Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporatiom: 4th Floor, Suites 10-17 Legasi Towers 300 Roxas Boulevard Metro Manila Tel: (02) 525-93-18-27 Fax: (02) 521-61-65/ 525-33-14 Top

Spain Travel

Hotels and Inns of Spain :: Travel Accommodation, Tourism :: Spain Vacation Inns and Hotels in Spain :: Travel and Accommodation in Spain :: Home Contact Us Charming Inns and Hotels in Spain Inns of Spain Part of Inns en Route Email Tel:+1.250.412.7336 Fax:+1.604.648.9356 - France Hotels - Portugal Hotels - Mallorca Hotels - Canary Islands Hotels - Paradores Hotels - Italy Hotels - Canada Hotels - USA Hotels - Costa Rica Hotels Inns of Spain represents over three hundred interesting, small and charming Spanish Hotels and Inns throughout mainland Spain and the islands. These inns include converted former monasteries, Asturian farmhouses, Galician pazos, historic castles, Andalusian cortijos, country inns, and many elegant hotels in Spain’s fascinating towns and cities. Some of these attractive inns are in the Canary Islands and Balearic islands . The charm, warmth and service at these Spanish Inns is unparalleled. Most are independently owned, family operated businesses conveniently located for touring itineraries of Spain and the islands. InnsofSpain.com showcases these Spanish inns and hotels, allowing you to easily browse, select and reserve rooms in these special properties. We also include frank comments and observations from our clients who have stayed at these inns to help you in your decision-making. If you prefer larger properties in historic settings, we also represent the Paradores group. In addition to these special places in Spain, we represent similar small, charming inns throughout France , Portugal and Italy . Our newest sites are Costa Rica , USA and Canada . Inns of Argentina and Inns of Morocco will be on our site in the new year. City Hotel Finder A Coruna Arcos Avila Barcelona Bilbao Burgos Cadiz Cordoba Cuenca Denia Estepona Gaucin Gijon Girona Granada Guadalajara Huelva Javea Jerez La Coruna Logrono Madrid Malaga Marbella Merida Nerja Ourense Oviedo Palma Ribadesella Ronda Salamanca San Sebastian Santander Santiago de Compostela Segovia Sevilla Tarifa Tarragona Toledo Trujillo Ubeda Valencia Xativa Zafra Prices: Low Medium High -- -- New Feria de Sevilla April 25 to 30 2006 - note that some hotels have extra high season rates before and after Feria also. Semana Santa (Easter week) in 2006 is April 9 to 16. Early in 2006 we will include some very special places in Argentina and Morocco. We are excited about both of these countries and believe they offer safe, unique and special experiences for the independent traveller. At the beginning of January we will offer another forty small hotels throughout Spain. Many are located in out-of-the-way places and are a delightful mix of very old buildings with wonderfully modern and stylish interiors. Posada Molino del Canto is an unusual little countryside hotel (with just six rooms), that was once a mill and miller's house. It is located in the Valley of Zamanzas, on the edge of the River Ebro. The hotel is 88 km. from Santander and 77 km. to the fascinating city of Burgos. The hotel has a delightful dining room or, in the summer, enjoy sitting outside for breakfast or dinner. Villa Turistica Bubion is offered as a base from which to explore the Alpujarra region. A little hotel village surrounded by peaks, it is ideal for those who love hiking and outdoor activities. Some of the little casitas are big enough for six people. Posada del Marques is 22 km. from the wonderful city of Leon. It was once part of a monastery, with a fascinating history, and part of the building is still used by a religious order and you can listen to the Gregorian chants in the church each day. There are just eleven ensuite rooms. Pago del Vicario is close to Ciudad Real and is a perfect destination for those interested in wine-making and wine. A new hotel, in the centre of the vineyards, and with a superb restaurant and cellar. A perfect place to taste, chat with the vintners and learn about the Bodega's special offerings. Hotel Bremon is a lovely hotel in the heart of Cardona, that was once a school for Carmelite nuns. There are nineteen comfortable rooms and a delightful restaurant. Special events over the summer in various locations: 6 July Medieval tournament in Hita, Guadalajara. 13 and 14 July, Medieval fair in Noia, Galicia. Fridays in July and August Medieval fair in Besalu. 9 August. Medieval tournament in Cortegana, Huelva. 10 August Medieval Tornament in Alba de Tormes, Valladolid. 9, 10 and 11 August Medieval fair in A Coruna. 24 August, Circo romano in Guinzo de Limia, Orense. 30 August Medieval Fair in Almassera, Valencia. 31 August Medieval tournament Casa de los Naranjos is an economically-priced twenty room hotel in the heart of Cordoba. In a typical Cordoban style, with two storeys and a central courtyard, it offers comfortable rooms in a central location. Finca El Tossal is a five room inn (with a delightful swimming pool) located inland from Altea. More News Are there any fees for using your service? Is information submitted to Inns en Route Inc. secure? There is availability, how do I make a reservation? More FAQ's Many thanks for your excellent follow-up – your planning was terrific AT May we compliment you on the efficiency of your service MA I will recommend this website to anyone going to Spain. 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