Japan Travel


|
|
Japan Travel Guide, Japanese Popular Culture, History and Japanese Etiquette Japan travel guide, information on Japan and Japanese culture. Japan Store JZ Originals | Books, CDs, DVDs, VHS | Geisha Fans | Folding Screens | Japanese Design | Baseball Goods Japanese Games The Gaming Industry | Game Developers Modern Japan Entertainment Movies | Movie Posters | Anime Movies | Tezuka Osamu | TV Comedy | Yoshimoto | TV Anime | Manga | Pop Music | Takarazuka | Pachinko Famous people Directors | Actors & Actresses | TV Stars | Comedians | Musicians | Sports Stars | Designers | Politicians Japan Inc Economy | Global 500 |Companies A - F | G - L | M | N | O - S | T - Z Cultural Japan Entertainment Kabuki | Noh | Bunraku | Geisha | Instruments Arts Tea Ceremony | Kodo | Ukiyoe | Ikebana | Bonsai | Origami | Literature | Modern Literature Royalty Imperial Family Calendar Festivals | Annual Events | Four Seasons | Cherry Blossoms Costume Kimono | Footwear Food & Drink Basics | Dishes | Alcohol New to Japan General Visas | Accommodation | Health & Welfare | Transport | Local Transport | Mobile Phones | Money | Etiquette | Meeting People Language Alphabets | Kanji | Useful Expressions | New Japanese Employment Working | Teaching | Find a Job Japan Omnibus Geography Facts & Figures | Regions & Cities | Climate Sightseeing Onsen | Tokyo | Kyoto | Hokkaido | Tohoku | Kanto | Chubu | Kinki | Chugoku | Shikoku | Kyushu | Okinawa Sports Baseball | Soccer | Sumo | Martial Arts | Others History Early | Medieval | Modern Religion Shinto | Buddhism | Others | Shrines | Temples | Zen Gardens Politics Government | Parties | Prime Ministers Japan Gallery Landmark | Nature | People | Scenery | Urban | Miscellaneous Japan Job Search Search GaijinPot's database of available jobs JapanBloggers Webring ? Ring Home # Make 100s of thousands of new friends today, FREE! Japan Zone Features: Chat Room | Quizzes | Games | E-cards Street Fashion Our latest poll: "What's the best way to spend New Year in Japan?" Thursday, 29th December 2005 Today's Japan News | Japan Weather | Japan Stocks | Currency Converter | The latest posts on our Japan Forum Join Japan Zone Friends in December - Win a DVD! - Join Now Everyone who joins Japan Zone Friends between now and December 31st will be entered to win a DVD! It's FREE to join, so why not? Welcome to the bizarre world of an American mannequin family who have recently moved toJapan, and cause quite an uproar. Fashionably hip and gut-splitting funny, this feature was first shown on the Japanese late-night show Vermillion Pleasure Night and now has a cult following. Available from ADV Films (the largest producer/distributor for Japanese anime) from December 20 on DVD. Official website Watch a classic clip, "Lady Tutor": High quality | Low quality (Quick Time) The Latest -- Japan Zone is the only site that brings you regular news and gossip in English from the Japanese entertainment world. Noriko's Fashion Choice Talento Kato Noriko (32) is to get married on New Year's Day, according to her agency yesterday. The lucky man is Wakatsuki Yoshio (43), a creative director in the fashion world. The fax announcement of the engagement caught the media by surprise as the two have only been going out since the spring, though they've been living together for the last couple of months. They have known each other for several years, and met when Kato took a break from showbusiness to study in Paris in 2000. Wakatsuki was working on the Paris Collection at the time. Rock band Mr. Children finished up their first nationwide "dome tour" with a show last night at Tokyo Dome. They played to 45,000 fans, bringing the tour total to about 390,000. Vocalist Sakurai Kazutoshi (35), who battled with serious illness in 2003 that saw the band take a 6-month hiatus, said 2005 was the best year ever. Kabuki actor Onoe Matsusuke died of cancer at a Tokyo hospital on Monday. He was 59. A survey has shown that people are pretty evenly divided about whether national broadcaster NHK should take legal action against those who refuse to pay their license fee. The number of those refusing to pay has increased to over a million following a series of scandals involving NHK employees. December 28, 2005 Recent Headlines Noriko's Fashion Choice (December 28) All Eyes on Women Skaters (December 27) Ryoko Polishing Her Bridal Skills (December 26) Boyz of Summer? (December 24) More news available on our News page . (powered by Movable Type 3.15 ) Syndicate this site Content Picks Planning a trip to Japan? ROYALTY : With the marriage of Princess Sayako, the Imperial Family lost one of its members. Will one of her nieces ever ascend to the imperial throne? CULTURE : Aromatherapy may be all the rage these days, but kodo , the art of incense, has been around for centuries and is one of the three major Japanese traditional arts. ROMANCE : Are you looking for a partner in Japan ? We have some useful background info and a list of resources to help you on your way. TOURS : Try our selection of half-day and one-day tours in Japan's most popular destinations SIGHTSEEING GUIDES : Browse our extensive sightseeing guide to the whole country, with information on all the major sights. Tokyo Kyoto Hokkaido Kyushu Mt. Fuji Osaka/Kobe Okinawa More... ELECTRONIC DICTIONARIES A must-have item for any student of Japanese or trip to Japan is a pocket dictionary.In our JapanStore, we have chosen some of the best ones around. From the reasonablypriced to the multi-featured, you're sure to find one that suits your study, businessor travel needs. Find out more... We've teamed up with Japan's No.1 online job site for English-speakingprofessionals. Search the Gaijinpot job database now for free. Through our partnership with Amazon.com, we are offering an exclusive JapanZone version of the award winning Alexa Toolbar- FREE! No browser should be without this handy tool! Plus, when you download anduse the toolbar, you'll help support Japan Zone. The Top Sites in Japan -- -- Web Japan Zone The current time in: Hawaii Los Angeles Chicago New York Brasilia London Berlin Paris Milano Israel New Delhi Bangkok Beijing Hong Kong Singapore Tokyo Seoul Canberra Guam Sign up for free & meet... Asia's largest friend finder network. Join FREE today! Sign up for our free newsletter. Keep up with the latest news and gossip from Japan. Cultural Japan | Modern Japan | New to Japan | Japan Omnibus | Japan Gallery | Japan Forum | Japan Store About us | Advertising | Links | Terms of Use | Comments on the site? © 1999-2005 Japan Zone international calling cards, phone cards
European Vacation [VHS] (1985)
National Lampoon's European Vacation [VHS] video online at Movies Unlimited NOTE: This Title Is Out Of Print; Limit One Per Customer. " What's New VHS MOVIES Out-of-Print Titles > Policies and Procedures > Security and Privacy Home Order Online Shopping Basket Contact Us About Us My Account © 1978-2005 Movies Unlimited Search By: Title Actor Director Browse Categories: DVD VHS Oscars on Video Movie Poster Books Gift Certificates Movie Links Our Gigantic 800 Page Print Catalog Click Here for E-mail Updates Webmasters Affiliate Program National Lampoon's European Vacation [VHS] (1985) The Griswold family is off on another hilarious holiday, and while America is safe, the Old World may never recover! Watch as Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo and their kids raise havoc from London to Rome on a wacky continental comedy trip. 94 min. NOTE: This Title Is Out Of Print; Limit One Per Customer. Category: Comedy Director: Amy Heckerling Cast:   John Astin , Sylvie Badalati , Paul Bartel , Chevy Chase , Robbie Coltrane , Beverly D'Angelo , Malcolm Danare , Dana Hill , Eric Idle , Sheila Kennedy , Maureen Lipman , Angus MacKay , Mel Smith , William Zabka Also Available: DVD Rated: PG13 Color Regularly $9.99 $2.99 VHS #191474 ^ back to top Also featured in our 800-page catalog ... Spinal Tap: Break Like The Wind--The Videos [VHS] Rock's venerable heavy metal specialists perform "Bitch School" (both the MTV and original versions) and "The Majesty of Rock" in this program featuring Nigel Tufnel, Derek Smalls and David St. Hubbins. 12 min. Category: Concerts and Performing Arts $14.99 VHS #074082 ^ back to top The Groove Tube [VHS] (1974) Hilarious cult comedy spoofing TV programs and commercials offers wild gags, sexy ladies, witty satire and early appearances by Chevy Chase, Richard Belzer and Paul Bartel, plus singer Buzzy Linhart and porn star Jennifer Welles. There's play-by-play of the "Sexual Olympics"; commercials for "Geritan" and "Butz Beer"; a wild adventure series called "The Dealers"; and a sleazy kid's show. 74 min. Category: Comedy Director: Ken Shapiro Cast:   Richard Belzer , Chevy Chase , Buzzy Linhart , Paul Norman , Jennifer Welles Also Available: DVD Rated: R Color $19.99 VHS #031013 ^ back to top Tunnelvision [VHS] (1976) It's the "television of the future" and it's unlike anything you've ever seen! Join Chevy Chase, Franken and Davis, Betty Thomas, Howard Hesseman, Laraine Newman, Ernie Anderson, Phil Proctor, Ron Silver, and Gerrit Graham in this wild look at TV insanity. 68 min. Category: Comedy Director: Neal Israel Cast:   Ernie Anderson , Chevy Chase , Tom Davis , Joe Flaherty , Al Franken , Gerrit Graham , Howard Hesseman , Rick Hurst , Laraine Newman , Phil Proctor , William Schallert , Ron Silver , Betty Thomas Rated: R Color Was $14.99 $9.99 VHS #506321 ^ back to top Caddyshack [VHS] (1980) Riotous comedy set in an elite country club features Rodney Dangerfield as a loud and loutish new member, Chevy Chase as the egotistical club pro, Bill Murray as a crazed groundskeeper, and the pesky Mr. Gopher. The plot revolves around a not-so friendly game of golf between Dangerfield, Chase and stuffy judge Ted Knight. Co-stars Michael O'Keefe. 98 min. NOTE: This Title Is Out Of Print; Limit One Per Customer. Category: Comedy Director: Harold Ramis Cast:   Chevy Chase , Scott Colomby , Rodney Dangerfield , Brian Doyle-Murray , Ted Knight , Cindy Morgan , Bill Murray , Michael O'Keefe , Harold Ramis , Albert Salmi , Henry Wilcoxon Also Available: DVD Rated: R Color Was $19.99 $49.99 VHS #192824 ^ back to top Caddyshack II [VHS] (1988) Just when you thought it was safe to head back to the green, those loonies from the links are back in an all-new comedy smash. Jackie Mason, Robert Stack, Dan Aykroyd, Dyan Cannon and Jonathan Silverman star, with Chevy Chase and "Chuck Rodent" reprising their roles from the original. 93 min. Category: Comedy Director: Allan Arkush Cast:   Dan Aykroyd , Paul Bartel , Dyan Cannon , Chevy Chase , Jessica Lundy , Jackie Mason , Brian McNamara , Dina Merrill , Randy Quaid , Jonathan Silverman , Robert Stack , Marsha Warfield Also Available: DVD Rated: PG Color Was $14.99 $12.74 VHS #191676 ^ back to top National Lampoon's European Vacation [VHS] (1985) The Griswold family is off on another hilarious holiday, and while America is safe, the Old World may never recover! Watch as Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo and their kids raise havoc from London to Rome on a wacky continental comedy trip. 94 min. NOTE: This Title Is Out Of Print; Limit One Per Customer. Category: Comedy Director: Amy Heckerling Cast:   John Astin , Sylvie Badalati , Paul Bartel , Chevy Chase , Robbie Coltrane , Beverly D'Angelo , Malcolm Danare , Dana Hill , Eric Idle , Sheila Kennedy , Maureen Lipman , Angus MacKay , Mel Smith , William Zabka Also Available: DVD Rated: PG13 Color Regularly $9.99 $2.99 VHS #191474 ^ back to top Vegas Vacation [VHS] (1997) It's a sure bet for comical calamity when Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo and their offspring pack up the car and head for the neon lights of Las Vegas. Once there, the Griswold kids get mixed up with mobsters and go-go dancers, D'Angelo is wooed by Wayne Newton, and Chevy winds up on stage with Siegfried and Roy. Randy Quaid also stars. 98 min. NOTE: This Title Is Out Of Print; Limit One Per Customer. Category: Comedy Director: Stephen Kessler Cast:   Sid Caesar , Chevy Chase , Beverly D'Angelo , Ethan Embry , Wayne Newton , Roy A. Nunez , Randy Quaid , Wallace Shawn , Julia Sweeney Also Available: DVD Rated: PG13 Color Was $19.99 $14.99 VHS #192536 ^ back to top Vacation Giftset [VHS] What's cheaper than a family trip to Wally World and even more fun? How about this boxed collector's set featuring Chevy Chase starring in all four "Vacation" comedies? Category: Comedy Cast:   Chevy Chase Also Available: DVD Color Was $39.99 $35.99 VHS #192389 ^ back to top Deal Of The Century [VHS] (1983) Chevy Chase gets mixed up in the illegal arms race in this comedy filled with wackiness and zany sight gags, as well as some timely spoofing of nuclear proliferation. Sigourney Weaver, Gregory Hines co-star; directed by William Friedkin. 96 min. NOTE: This Title Is Out Of Print; Limit One Per Customer. Category: Comedy Director: William Friedkin Cast:   Chevy Chase , Robert Cornthwaite , Vince Edwards , David Haskell , Richard Herd , Gregory Hines , Graham Jarvis , Richard Libertini , Maurice Marsac , Pepe Serna , Wallace Shawn , Ebbe Roe Smith , Sigourney Weaver Also Available: DVD Rated: PG Color Regularly $14.99 $9.99 VHS #191304 ^ back to top Spies Like Us [VHS] (1985) Chevy Chase and Dan Aykroyd are two bumbling agents on a top secret assignment to foil a group of international missile maniacs. But they're the ones who get foiled, hung upside down, and lost, a lot, in this frantic comedy feast. Co-stars Donna Dixon, Steve Forrest. 103 min. Category: Comedy Director: John Landis Cast:   Vanessa Angel , Michael Apted , Dan Aykroyd , Bernie Casey , Chevy Chase , James Daughton , Bruce Davison , Donna Dixon , Steve Forrest , Matt Frewer , Terry Gilliam , Ray Harryhausen , Bob Hope , B.B. King , Charles McKeown , Frank Oz , William Prince , Sam Raimi Also Available: DVD Rated: PG Was $14.99 $12.74 VHS #191505 ^ back to top Dirty Work [VHS] (1998) "SNL" alumnus Norm MacDonald stars as a guy who is fed up with the stupidity and evil doings of others. Using his lifelong knack for retaliation, he sets up a company dedicated to carrying out the revenge plots of its customers. Artie Lange, Jack Warden, Christopher McDonald and Chevy Chase co-star, with cameos by Chris Farley and Adam Sandler; Philly's own Bob Saget directs. 82 min. NOTE: This Title Is Out Of Print; Limit One Per Customer. Category: Comedy Director: Bob Saget Cast:   Chevy Chase , Chris Farley , John Goodman , Traylor Howard , Artie Lange , Christopher McDonald , Ken Norton , Don Rickles , Adam Sandler , Jack Warden Also Available: DVD Rated: PG13 Color Was $99.99 $14.99 VHS #123260 ^ back to top ^ back to top
Europe Travel
Europe Travel | England, Ireland, Italy & France | iExplore.com FORBES' #1 ADVENTURE TRAVEL SITE 5 YEARS IN A ROW — TIME MAGAZINE TOP 50 Keyword Search: -- Home Trip Finder Travel Guides Community Special Offers Store My iExplore advertisement -- Home Travel Guides Europe Ireland , Scotland , England , Belgium , and France offer some of Europe's best hiking and biking , with tours that traverse the lush, rolling countryside and overnight at quaint inns. Germany , Switzerland , eastern France and northern Italy turn up the volume with hiking and mountain climbing in the Alps . In Sweden , Norway , and Finland , you can take a fjord cruise and play insomniac in the arctic midnight sun. Even Russia is getting in on the act, introducing adventure travelers to the snow-capped Caucasus Mountains and the windswept Kola Peninsula. Countries Albania Andorra Austria Belarus Belgium Bosnia-Herzegovina Bulgaria Croatia Czech Republic Denmark England Estonia Finland France Germany Greece Hungary Iceland Ireland Italy Latvia Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Malta Moldava Monaco Netherlands Northern Ireland Norway Poland Portugal Romania Russia Scotland Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Spain Sweden Switzerland Ukraine United Kingdom Wales Tour Spotlight iExplore Russia Silver Today's Russia is often exhilarating, sometimes ominous. Everyday life goes on amid a jumble of trial-and-error capitalism... Trip Overview Trip Itinerary Departure Dates Russia Photos Russia Travel Guide Destination Spotlight Norway The breathtaking fjords of the southwest are Norway’s most dramatic features, but there are many other reasons to visit this sparsely... Overview Where To Go Travel Tips Norway Trips Norway Photos advertisement Sponsored Listings ( Add your listing ) Advertisement -- advertisement Why iExplore? About Us Advertise Site Map Privacy Policy Travel Agents Contact Us © 2005 Adventure Travel with iExplore --
Spain Travel
Tourist Office of Spain - Travel Tips for travel to and within Spain Our Office Useful Addresses How to get there Travel Tips Activities Travel Bulletin Tour Operators' Index Request Information Home Visiting Spain is not only about sun, great cuisine, and a warm welcome, but also its rich monumental heritage and dazzling natural environment. There is a perfect destination for everyone -choose yours. Visit our main Web site: Travel Tips for travel to and within Spain PASSPORT - MONEY - CUSTOMS PASSPORT AND VISA REGULATIONS : No visa for Spain is required for Canadian, US passport holders and nationals of European Unions countries for stays up to 3 months as a tourist. For stays exceeding this period, other nationalities or work permits please contact the Consulate of Spain nearest you. The addresses and telephone numbers of the Spanish Consulates are as follows: Toronto : 200 Front Street, Suite 2401, Toronto, Ont. M5V 3K2. Tel. (416) 977 1661 cgspain.toronto@mail.mae.es Open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Montreal : 1 Westmount Sq. Ste 1456, Montreal, P.Q. H3Z 2P9. Tel. (514) 935 5235 consular@total.net Open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday. For more information click here . INOCULATIONS : No inoculations are required when entering or leaving Spain. MONEY: As of January 1st, 2002, the new Spanish currency, as in most European Union countries, is the Euro. The currency will have notes and eight coins. The notes will have face value of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 or 500 euros. The Euro is divided into 100 cents and the coins will range in value from 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1, 2 euros. Tourists may bring up to 6,010.12 euros (approximetly $10,000 Canadian dollars) without declaring the amount at customs. The current rate of exchange varies from week to week. For an updated exchange rate, check with newspapers or banks. Travellers cheques are most practical and Canadian currency can be exchanged at banks, airports, main hotels, etc. In order to get the most for your money, we advise you to buy some euros before leaving (for first day expenses) and exchange the rest of your dollars or travellers cheques at the bank once in Spain (although banking hours might be subject to change, presently they are: Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) Major credit cards are honoured in most hotels and restaurants, main stores, rent-a-car companies and others, although this should be checked before each transaction. The convenient Interact System can also be used throughout Spain, providing one of the easiest and cheapest ways of obtaining cash abroad; consult with your bank about your particular card and fees. For Currency converter click here . CUSTOMS: You may bring the following into Spain: personal effects, a personal laptop, one video camera or two still cameras with ten rolls of film each. A portable radio or portable tape recorder per person is admitted free of duty, as well as 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco. One bottle of wine and one of liquor per person. The following sports equipment is also allowed: fishing gear, one bicycle, skis, tennis or squash racquets and golf clubs. PETS: Pets do not need to be held in quarantine prior to entering Spain. A certificate stating that an animal is in good health and has been inoculated against rabies (for dogs and cats) is required. The document must be issued by a veterinarian and certified at the nearest Consulate of Spain. TRANSPORTATION WITHIN SPAIN Railways: Spain has an extensive railroad system with fast and comfortable trains, offering some of the best fares in Europe. The national network is known as RENFE. Internet address: www.renfe.es . One of Europes most luxurious sightseeing trains is the AL ANDALUS EXPRESS with classic cars restored and refurbished in modern "grand luxe" style. There is 5-stars accommodation in the bedroom/salon cars. All excursions and meals are included. The AL ANDALUS EXPRESS have several itineraries, although it usually goes from Madrid south to Andalusia. The TRANSCANTABRICO, another sightseeing train, covers the northern and north-western parts of Spain know as Green Spain, from San Sebastian in the Basque region to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. The train is air-conditioned and has showers, a bar and live music. All excursions and meals are included. AVE, Spains sleek bullet train, is the rail link between Madrid and Seville, going through Ciudad Real and Cordoba. This ultramodern train, which travels at a speed of up to 185 miles per hour, makes the Madrid-Seville run in 2 hours 30 minutes. TALGO is an ultramodern, fully air-conditioned train operating throughout Spain. New fast and sleek trains called EUROMEDS are going along the Mediterranean Coast, significantly cutting your travelling time from Barcelona to Valencia. Tickets can be purchased through RAIL EUROPE: 1-800-361 RAIL , which sells special rail passes only for Spain. Train Passes, such as EUROPASS and FLEXIPASS can also be purchased through RAIL EUROPE. Buses: Public bus service in Spain is comfortable and efficient. Although there are many lines which cover long distances, buses are specially recommended for short trips and for excursions from major tourist centres. Local tourist offices can provide you with schedule information. Ships: Travellers who wish to visit the Spanish Islands may depart from the mainland using the COMPAIA TRANSMEDITERRANEA. this national carrier has regular scheduled ferries from Barcelona and Valencia to the Balearic Islands and from Cadiz to the Canary Islands. TRANSMEDITERRANEA also offers inter-island service. The same company offers service to North Africa: from Almeria and Malaga to Melilla and from Algeciras to Tangiers and Ceuta. For reservations please call the headquarters in Madrid. Tel. : 011-341-431-0700, fax: 011-34- 431- 0804. Website: http://www.trasmediterranea.es Modern Hydrofoil ships are now linking Mainland Spain to the Balearic Islands, Algeciras to Tangier and between the Canary Islands. Inquire in our Office for more details about ferries. Driving in Spain: In order for Canadians to drive in Spain, they must: Have an International Driving Licence Be 18 years of age or older Be a tourist Traffic Offences: On the spot payment of fines (reduced by 20%) is compulsory for non-residents. Taxis: All major cities in Spain have metered taxi service. Any extra charges must be posted in the vehicle. For further information click here . ACCOMMODATION There are more than 10,000 hotel accommodations in Spain. They are divided into several categories, among them Hotels, Residence-Hotels, Apartment-Hotels, Motels and Pensions. All of them have a plaque at the entrance showing their official category, from one to five stars. Establishment classified, as "Residence-Hotels" does not provide meals. Official forms are available at hotels and any complaint concerning service may be registered. PARADORES DE ESPAA is a state-run network of hotels. Many of them are castles, convents, or palaces restored and furnished with every modern amenity. Most of them are scenically located. Reservations can be made directly to: Central of Reservations in Madrid, Tel: 011 34 91 5166666 and the fax: 011 34 91 516657/8 - Web site: http://www.parador.es For further information please visit Tourism Spain main Web site or contact our Tourist Office in Canada. New representatives in Canada: Adsum Tourism Services 4159 Dundas St. West, Suite 218 Toronto, ON M8X 1Y4 Phone : 416-237-1930 Fax: 416-237-9212 paradores-ca@adsum.ws Apartments and Villas: There are many for rent, especially along the coastal resort areas. It is advisable to stay a few days at a hotel or pension and look around for a suitable place. Prices can vary according to the season, area or location. An Official Guide to Apartment-Hotels can be obtained from the Tourist Office. Call us for a list of addresses. Camping: Spains excellent campsites can be found along the coast, on the islands, as well as in scenic areas. Campings are also classified under a star rating system which can be obtained from the Tourist Office. Rural Tourism: A magnificent alternative to visit the real Spain off the beaten track. Accommodation in traditional country farms is available all over Spain and most of then offer complementary activities such as horseback riding, bicycling, etc. OTHER INFORMATION Taxes: A 7% VAT is to be added to rates for all restaurants and hotel rooms. Service is included. Getting your VAT back: Travellers to Spain are entitled to a reimbursement of the 16% VAT tax they pay on all purchases as long as these add up to no less than 90.16 euros (approximately $150) per store. The vendor must provide the purchaser with a duly filled out invoice, which includes the price of each good, the VAT paid for each item, as well as the identification for both the vendor and purchaser. The goods must be brought out of Spain whitin three months. At the time of departure, the invoice must be submitted to the Spanish Customs Officer in charge of VAT refunds at the international port, gate or airport (there is a specific booth for this purpose just prior to the entrance to the international area). The Customs Officer will stamp the original copy, which should be turned in at a bank in the airport for reimbursement. Tipping: Service is generally included in the bill. Tips are at your own discretion, although a 10% tip is customary. Language: Castilian (Spanish) in the whole territory. Catalan, Basque (Euskera) and Galician in their respective autonomous regions. English is usually spoken in the tourist areas along the Mediterranean coast as well as French, although a booklet with the most common phrases in Spanish is always helpful. Electric Current: 220 volts (50 cycles) are commonly used in Spain, although 110 still exist in some areas. Round prong plugs are used in all outlets. Standard Canadian plugs will not fit into Spanish outlets. Bullfights: The season starts in March and runs until the middle of October. Shopping in Spain: This is not only an exciting venture but also practical as Spain offers today some of the best prices on many articles. Spain has a long tradition in making leather goods (shoes, luggage, bags, coats, dresses gloves, etc.), clothing (original fashion designers or ready-made), embroidery and lace; jewellery (classical or modern designs, as well as artisan gold and silver works); blown glass, pottery, antiques (some of the antique galleries in Madrid, Barcelona or Seville are among the best in Europe); furniture; interior decorating items (the famous Lladro porcelains, iron grille designs, silver and other metals such as candelabra, trays, bowls, etc.); toys; musical instruments (Spanish guitars are know to be the best in the world). Madrid and Barcelona are of course the major cities for shopping. In Madrid, the main commercial areas are: the Goya, Principe de Vergara and Serrano districts for exclusive fashions; Narvaez, Conde de Penalver and the old downtown area of Puerta del Sol, Alcala, Gran Via, Carretas and Arsenal, a place also to find major Department stores. A must is the Sunday flea market of El Rastro, where you can find anything from a hatpin to a masterpiece. In Barcelona, Paseo de Gracia and Diagonal for elegant shopping; the Ramblas and Plaza de Catalunya for almost anything; and the area around the church of Sta. Maria de los Reyes for antique galleries. Other excellent areas for shopping are tourist centres, such as Torremolinos and Marbella in Costa del Sol, Benidorm in Costa Blanca, Playa de Aro in the Costa Brava, Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza in the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands (mainly Tenerife and Gran Canaria) specially, since they are duty-free ports. Shopping Hours: Although big department stores are open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, most shops keep traditional business hours, approximately 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Some stores are open on Sunday. Museums: The standard hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 9:a.m. to 7:00 p.m.. Sundays and holidays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., but check with the Tourist Office in Spain nearest you for hours of specific museums. For further information click here . Books and maps on Spain: The Tourist Office of Spain supplies maps, brochures and information circulars free of charge. Persons wishing further information may obtain additional guides and maps at retail stores or, in Spain, from local tourist offices. Travelling with children: Most hotels make reductions for babies and small children, although there are not official regulations. This matter should be arranged with the hotel management. Baby food and disposable diapers are available at most resorts and are obtainable from supermarkets and pharmacies. Baby-sitting arrangements can usually be made locally. The availability and cost should be checked with the establishment directly or through the booking agent. Health Service: Only members of the European Union enjoy free medical assistance under the Spanish Health Service during their stay. You are advised to take out adequate holiday insurance. This is available at your local bank or from most tour operators and travel agents. Although there are multilingual doctors in the tourist areas, those requiring special treatment or diets are advised to carry a letter from their doctor translated into Spanish, indicating the nature of the condition, treatment and medicines required. Special dietary products are available from health shops and pharmacies. Telephoning Home: Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from Spain is 9000-99-0015 where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1-800-561-8868 or on the Internet: ( www.canada-direct.com ) Radio Canada International: Radio Canada International ( RCI ) broadcasts on short-wave in Spain. For a schedule of times and frequency of broadcasts, check the RCI web site ( www.rcinet.ca ). You may also e-mail RCI at rci@montreal.radio-canada.ca or call ( 514 ) 597 7555 Casinos: Gambling is legal in Spain. There are 22 casinos in operation. Lists are available upon request. Public Holidays: January 1, New Years Day January 6 Good Friday March 19 May 1, Labour Day August 15, Feast of the Assumption October 12, Spains National Day November 1, All Saints December 6, Constitution Day December 25, Christmas day Each of the 17 Autonomous Regions and Municipalities in Spain has extra official public holidays celebrated only within its boundaries. Important Web site address: (in English) General information: www.tourspain.es IBERIA: www.iberia.com/ibusa RENFE: www.renfe.es PARADORES: www.parador.es SPANISH EMBASSY IN CANADA: www.docuweb.ca/SpainInCanada/ Information on Commercial matters: Please contact the Commercial Office of Spain at: 55 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Tel.. (416) 967-0488. e-mail: buzon.oficial@toronto.ofcomes.mcx.es THE CLIMATE IN SPAIN SPRING is an ideal time to visit the central regions of Castile, Andalusia, the Mediterranean Coast and the Balearic Islands. The climate is generally very good, but expect occasional rain. SUMMER is a good season to visit the northern regions, especially the resorts along the Cantabrian Coast, from Hondarribia on the French-Spanish border to La Guardia at the Portuguese-Spanish frontier. FALL is perhaps the best season of the year to visit the entire country. The climate is excellent, with sunny days and blue skies. WINTER is a good season for the Mediterranean regions, particularly the Costa del Sol, Alicante (Costa Blanca) and the Balearic Islands. The high mountain ranges offer excellent conditions for winter sports. The Canary Islands have an even and pleasant climate all year round. For further information click here . Site Content Our Office Useful addresses Travel Bulletin Travel Tips Activities Tour operators index How to get there Information request Home page ACTIVITIES Cultural: Spain has a very intense cultural life; opera, ballet and concerts can be enjoyed in the major cities - Madrid and Barcelona have their opera, ballet and concert season. Spanish theatre is very popular with more than 30 theatres in Madrid playing daily. There are also the famous "Fiestas". Every city, town and village has its own, usually commemorating their patron saint, including bullfighting, folklore dances, outdoors fairs and events. Larger cities often include ballets, plays and flamenco spectacles. For dates and information please contact our Office. For further information click here . Gastronomy and Restaurants: Food in Spain is taken very seriously. Dining is an indispensable ingredient, in the countrys ebullient social lifestyle. Meals are long and leisurely, providing an opportunity to enjoy good company freshly prepared dishes, and fine wines, such as the world-famous Riojas. Lunch is the big meal of the day and is generally served between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. Dinner is traditionally served between 9:00 and 11:00 p.m. Vertical forks (from one to five) rate restaurants on a plaque outside the entrance. Prices must be listed both inside and outside the establishment. Ask for the tourist menu, usually an all- included meal very reasonably priced according to the category of the restaurant. Spanish cuisine is based on the healthy Mediterranean diet. Prized Spanish olive oil, garlic, fresh daily produce and wine are the staples. The striking cultural contrasts between regions in Spain are reflected in the tremendous variety of cooking styles. The central plateau of Castile is known for its delicious roasts: lamb, kid, suckling pig, and game such as partridge. Try the garlic soup, hearty bean stews, and famous Manchego cheeses. Valdepeas and Ribera del Duero make exceptional red wines. Catalans are very inventive cooks, combining game and poultry with seafood, and savoury meats with sweet sauces of dried fruits and nuts. Basque cooking is considered the most sophisticated and innovative in Spain. The city of San Sebastian is exemplary, with many restaurants serving some of the finest food in Europe. Traditional cuisine is at its best in fish and shellfish. The north-western region of Galicia is Spains source of a wide variety of fresh shellfish, and delicacies such as barnacles and spider crab. Try the octopus accompanied by the famous Albario and Ribeiro wines. Andalusia is home to the refreshing gazpacho and garlic-almond soup, delicious olives, and world-famous Sherries. The rice fields of Valencia gave birth to the paella as well as a wide variety of excellent rice dishes. Spains greatest contribution to gastronomy may well be the tapas. These little portions of regional specialities are served in restaurants and bars throughout Spain and are generally accompanied by wine, beer or sangria. 2004 Tourist Office of Spain in Canada 2 Bloor West, Toronto, ON, M4W 3E2 Tel.: (416) 961-3131, Fax.: (416) 961-1992 E-mail: toronto@tourspain.es Developed by DesignByBaxter This web page last updated: Wednesday, May 25, 2005
South America Travel Forum
South America Travel Forum Travel Blog | About TravelBlog | World Facts | Latest Travel Journals | Backpacker Travel Insurance | Travel Wallpaper | Travel Forum | Services | Articles South America Travel Forum Home Newest Journals Bloggers Search Travel Forum Travel Guide Travel Photos « back 1 2 next » Forums » South America Travel Forum Post New Thread South America Travel Forum Countries include: Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Venzuela, Peru, Bolivia, Colombia and the territory of Antarctica. Moderators Forum Charter Terms of Service Topics Messages Started Last Reply View Photos of Peru A selection of photos from my two trips to Peru amongst others 1 fitzrik 23:19 - 27th Dec View u2 will come to the Argentina... Elevation Tour 2006 2 marcelou2 13:15 - 27th Dec marcelou2 13:22 - 27th Dec View Volunteering My girlfriend and me will be travelling south america from november and would like to volunteer at some point during th trip. Preferably Ecuador or Peru 3 Youngy 09:43 - 6th Oct stevemc 22:15 - 24th Dec View Buenos Aires Trip Currently in Recife Brasil and planning a trip for 2-4 weeks to Buenos Aires. 2 wherearewenow 01:15 - 20th Dec marcelou2 12:59 - 20th Dec View first time travelling- south america Desperate to travel as much as south america as possible - Posted Anonymously 2 anonymous 01:58 - 7th Jan wherearewenow 00:35 - 20th Dec View A little scared of heights Considering my tiny fear heights, is it madness to be hoping to do the inca trail next year? 1 Poppypinkie 00:30 - 20th Dec View Where to travel? I just spent 6 months studying at a university in Buenos Aires, Argentina and wondering where I should go next. 3 Jamerson 04:03 - 12th Aug marcelou2 16:41 - 16th Dec View I can help you if you want.. Hello, Hola, I'm waiting for you... 1 marcelou2 17:46 - 15th Dec View Question Travelling South/Central America 2 Kiel 18:54 - 14th Dec Ali 00:15 - 15th Dec View Bolivia via Peru Getting to La Paz, Bolivia from Lima, Peru??? Adventure extraordinaire? 3 dannyboy 20:17 - 17th Aug Jenstar 12:07 - 11th Nov View lima to la paz best and cheapest overland route from lima to la paz 1 threethings 22:38 - 6th Nov View We offer accommodation in Lima - Peru We are a peruvian family who offer accommodation in our home in Lima 2 peruexplorer 22:59 - 29th Aug peruexplorer 00:36 - 21st Oct View USHUAIA INFORMATION Accommodation in Ushuaia, Argentina 1 ARY_USH 18:15 - 12th Oct View south america trip around south america 3 jolka 07:52 - 16th May gozub 21:08 - 12th Aug View Need info on buying a van/camper in south america will be traveling in south america by van/truck/camper need help please 3 elflaco 04:03 - 28th Oct Carley 00:03 - 10th Oct View Learn Spanish in Cuzco Peru if you would like to learn spanish in cuzco peru. it is a good idea. 1 aqmaster 13:26 - 5th Oct View Amazon seeing the amazon 1 Youngy 09:37 - 5th Oct View Malaria tablets how easy/difficult is it to get Chloroquine in South America? 1 Mark and Marias Great Adventure 11:46 - 16th Sep View Here's my plan, need some help. I am currently compiling my plan for a tour of South America and Central America. Its in the early stages, so any advice would be great. cheers 6 mexicanwave 12:13 - 15th Aug mexicanwave 12:29 - 5th Sep View Bolivia to Brazil..... Brazil to Venezuela I want to travel from Bolivia to Brazil... i don't know the best way 1 gozub 17:12 - 27th Aug « back 1 2 next » Post New Thread « back 1 2 next » Forums » South America Travel Forum Africa | Asia | Australasia | Europe | Middle East | North America | South America | Central America & Caribbean World Facts Maps & Flags | Bloggers | Latest Journals | Free Travel Journal | Online Travel Diary | Travel Wallpaper | Travel Photos | Backpacker Travel Insurance | Search | Travel Forum | Travel Guide 2002 - 2005 TravelBlog & Bloggers | Contact Us | Terms of Service | RSS 0.91 Total: 1.165 s; Template: 0.2414 s; qcount: 189; 64.34.178.147; mem: 6426248