Vacation Package


|
|
Business Process Outsourcing Outsourcing | Mortgage | Email Marketing | Affiliates | Education | Hotels | Travel | Insurance Effects of Outsourcing - What is Business Process Outsourcing? - Global Outsourcing - India Offshore Outsourcing - Job Outsourcing - Outsourcing Advantages - Outsourcing Jobs to India - Outsourcing White Collar Jobs Outsourcing Faqs - BPO Industry - BPO Companies - Contact Center Outsourcing - What is offshore Outsourcing? - What is outsourcing? - Outsourcing Statistics - What is Software Outsourcing? - What is BPO Outsourcing trends - BPO India Boom - Call center outsourcing - Hr outsourcing - IT Outsourcing to India - Outsourcing Institute - Outsourcing services to India - Benefits of outsourcing to India - What is Payroll Outsourcing? - Portfolio accounting outsourcing - What is Sales Outsourcing? - Negative Effects of Outsourcing Education Articles Online bachelor degree Getting a bachelor degree online is way more beneficial than getting it through a face to face program More Study in the UK The UK is a great place to study with over 3000 international quality certified universities that accept foreign students More Top 10 Universities in US Get the lists of the top ten universities in the USA. Learn where to apply and where not to More Outsourcing Articles Business Process Outsourcing Learn what is BPO and how it will effect us in the near future as technology develops More Outsourcing to India Indian outsourcing market has seen a huge leap recently with companies making India their offshoring destination More Negative Effects of Outsourcing Over the past 20 years outsourcing as a phenomena has developed at a very fast pace More Mortgage Articles Bad Credit Mortgage Bad credit mortgage is no different from an ordinary mortgage except that it's given to people having a bad credit history More Balloon Mortgage A balloon mortgage is a loan over a shorter period of time for a given amount of money. More Mortgage Calculator A mortgage calculator allows you to figure out the outcome of your mortgage loan to a certain extent More Affiliate Articles Affiliate Business Opportunity Affiliate programs are a great source of additional income and companies today are ready to pay a hefty commissions More Web Hosting Affiliate Program Web hosting service companies in the recent times are facing tough competitors in terms of customer acquisition More Two Tier Affiliate Programs A two tier affiliate program is an affiliate program that involves paying the publisher on a dual basis More Travel Articles Discount Caribbean Cruises A cruise vacation is the perfect getaway as it opens a world of cuisines, cultures, spas and beaches More Cayman Islands Who doesn't like calm sandy beaches, and a cool weather? And all these get exaggerated in the Cayman Islands More Disney Travel Packages The Disney world in Florida is one of the most famous theme parks in the world. There is lots to do once in Disney Land More E-Marketing Articles Email Marketing Campaign As technology is developing, more businesses are taking to the net in order to market their products and services More Html Email Marketing Html email marketing is a new trend that most people are afraid to try out and for valid reasons too More Opt-in Email Marketing Opt in email marketing is the best possible way to market your goods and services online More Insurance Articles Motor Cycle Insurance Motorcycle insurance is a contract that provides compensation for loses in exchange for periodic payment More Classic Car Insurance Classic cars are a pride possession and although tough to maintain most of us value them even more than regular cars More Cheap Dental Insurance Find all the important info that you will ever need to find cheap dental insurance in your area More Hotel Articles Best Hotels in Cancun An extremely popular and exciting island resort Cancun is located in the northeastern tip of the Yucatan peninsula More Cheap Chicago Hotels Chicago is a great tourist spot with world famous shopping centers, museums, arts and architecture and theaters More Cheap Las Vegas Hotels Las Vegas is a city filled with glitz and glamour, amazingly designed hotels to high tech casinos and danger sports More Outsourcing-Network | Outsourcing-History | Outsourcing-India | Outsourcing-BPO | Resources | Contact
Chicago Vacation Rentals Home
Chicago Vacation Rentals - VRBO® is Vacation Rentals by Owner Chicago - Chicago Hotels, Chicago Lodging, Chicago Travel and Tourism Property Owners Join Us VRBO ® is Vacation Rentals by Owner ® Ctrl-D to Bookmark | VRBO Home | JOIN us | Testimonials | Want Ads | Advantages | Links | Member Area | Disclaimer Chicago Vacation Rentals Home USA Illinois Chicago Available Dates Credit Cards OK Guest Comments Pet Friendly VRBO Bear stayed here (#) Photos See these nearby locations: Lake Michigan Area Sort this page by: Default Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Sleeps: Chicago Lincoln Park - Corporate Apartments with Personal Comforts [#21277] 12 2BR+/1BA (Sleeps 4-8) $145-$235/nt US Dollars Chicago Downtown Chicago 53rd Floor Luxury Condo with Awsome Views [#46269] 12 2BR+/2BA (Sleeps 6) From $300/nt US Dollars Chicago Downtown 55th Floor- Incomparable Views! Luxury Condominium! [#65673] 12 1BR+/1BA (Sleeps 2-4) From $169/nt US Dollars Chicago Winter Discounts - Sleep Above Chicago and Michigan Ave. [#71108] 12 1BR+/1BA (Sleeps 4) $175-$200/nt US Dollars Chicago Winter Discounts! 2 Bedroom Condo Sleeps 6 Off Michigan Avenue [#71820] 12 2BR+/1BA (Sleeps 6) $200-$275/nt US Dollars Chicago New Years Special $279/nt Downtown Designer Penthouse [#72685] 12 2BR+/2BA (Sleeps 4-6) From $269/nt US Dollars Chicago Holiday Apartments in Chicago, Illinois [#77083] 12 2BR+/1BA (Sleeps 4-6) $135-$245/nt US Dollars Chicago Chicago Guest House 4BR on Lakewood Ave - Lakeview [#59723] 11 4BR/2BA (Sleeps 6-8) $360-$450/nt US Dollars Chicago Chicago Guest House on Henderson St. ~ Lakeview [#52837] 10 3BR/2.5BA (Sleeps 6) $320-$400/nt US Dollars Chicago Chicago Guest House~ 3BR on Lakewood~ Lakeview [#59725] 10 3BR/2BA (Sleeps 4-6) $272-$340/nt US Dollars Chicago Wicker Park, Bucktown East Village - 3 Bedroom Apartments [#65053] 10 3BR+/2BA (Sleeps 3-7) $200-$450/nt US Dollars Chicago Luxurious & Sophisticated Downtown Condo on the Chicago River! [#67660] 9 1BR/1BA (Sleeps 1-3) From $175/nt - $1150/wk US Dollars Sort this page by: Default Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Sleeps: Top Chicago December Discount!- $175/nt Downtown Chicago Luxury Highrise [#73121] 9 1BR+/1BA (Sleeps 3) From $175/nt US Dollars Chicago Unmatched Luxury & Convenience to Chicago's Culture & Beauty [#64817] 8 2BR+/2BA (Sleeps 6-7) From $250/nt US Dollars Chicago Chicago Gold Coast Penthouse Spectacular Views Spacious Layout [#71247] 6 2BR/2BA (Sleeps 6) $270-$300/nt US Dollars Chicago Gorgeous Downtown Chicago Printers Row Loft [#55316] 5 1BR+/1BA (Sleeps 2-4) $150-$200/nt - $900/wk - $2500/mo US Dollars Chicago Lincoln Park... 4 Bedroom Apartment Suite [#21849] 4 4BR/2BA (Sleeps 8) $225-$365/nt - From $3200/mo US Dollars Chicago Greenview Flat - 3 Bedroom Apartment [#49463] 3 3BR/2BA (Sleeps 8) $205-$305/nt - $2400/mo US Dollars Chicago Beautiful Furnished Apartments in Chicago's Gold Coast Area! [#51481] 3 1BR/1BA (Sleeps 2-4) From $125/nt US Dollars Chicago Unique Historic Castle for Photo Shoots, Movies, Events [#53158] 3 Studio/3.5BA (Sleeps 0) $1500-$2000/nt US Dollars Chicago Victorian Corporate Housing / Vacation Rental [#68305] 3 3BR+/1BA (Sleeps 6-8) $150-$195/nt - $785/wk - $2200/mo US Dollars/Euros Chicago Charming Apartment in Historic Ukrainian Village/Wicker Park [#73592] 3 2BR+/1BA (Sleeps 4-6) $100-$120/nt US Dollars Chicago Spend the Holidays in Downtown Chicago $225/nt [#77178] 3 2BR/2BA (Sleeps 4) From $225/nt US Dollars Chicago December Special! Luxury Gold Coast 1BR - Center of Mag Mile [#71819] 2 1BR/1BA (Sleeps 2-4) $175-$195/nt US Dollars Sort this page by: Default Bedrooms: Bathrooms: Sleeps: Top Chicago Great State Street Condo -2 Blocks from Millennium Park! [#73240] 1BR+/1BA (Sleeps 4-6) From $125/nt - $750/wk - $2750/mo US Dollars Chicago Evanston Condo-Short Walk to Downtown, N.U., and El/Metra!! [#76003] 2BR+/1BA (Sleeps 3-4) From $100/nt - $500/wk - $1500/mo US Dollars Chicago In the Heart of it All--Michigan Ave--River--Restaurants--Pla [#76434] 1BR/1BA (Sleeps 2-3) $1000/wk - $2000-$3000/mo US Dollars Chicago Lake Shore Dr. Large 2r/2BA Deluxe Suite - Now Available!! [#76569] 2BR+/2BA (Sleeps 4-5) $175/nt - $3000/mo US Dollars Chicago Minutes from Michigan Avenue, Water Tower Place, Bloomingdales [#78206] 2BR/1BA (Sleeps 5-7) From $195/nt US Dollars See these nearby locations: Lake Michigan Area This page updated hourly - next update at 18:56:16 Eastern Time Ctrl-D to Bookmark | VRBO Home | JOIN us | Testimonials | Want Ads | Advantages | Links | Member Area | Disclaimer VRBO ® is Vacation Rentals by Owner ® - The largest and most popular vacation rental site. To report any problems with this site contact webmaster@vrbo.com URL: http://www.vrbo.com/Index/Index.aspx ©1995-2005 by VRBO International LLC - all rights reserved
Cruise Vacation: Call 1-
Windstar Cruises, Windstar Cruise Vacations: Windstar Cruises Guide Windstar Cruises Vacations: Windstar Cruises Information Site Index Windstar Cruises Vacation Guide; Romantic Windstar Cruises Virtuoso, Windstar Cruises Vacation Specialists Windstar Cruise Vacation: Call 1- 800 330 8820 to book. Windstar Cruises Destinations WindStar Caribbean Cruises WindStar The Americas Cruises WindStar Europe Cruises WindStar Greek Isles Cruises WindStar Trans Atlantic Cruises Windstar Cruises Luxury Cruise Vacations Windstar Cruises - A Unique Concept In Cruising "Pioneering Line Celebrates 15th Anniversary" Sailing under the banner of its appropriate tag line "180 From Ordinary," Windstar Cruises was created in the mid-1980''s with the vision to offer an alternative to the typical cruise or resort vacation. The Windstar Cruises passenger sees the world from a romantic sailing ship with luxurious accommodations, a casual yet elegant atmosphere, and exquisite service and cuisine. Well known for cruising off the beaten path, throughout 2002 Windstar Cruises celbrated our 15th year of sailing to exotic locales and hidden harbors that larger ships cannot access. These stately vessels turn heads from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean to the Far East. The Windstar Cruise Ships In late 1986, the first commercial sailing vessel built in 60 years slipped out of a French dry-dock in Le Havre. Although the towering sails echoed a bygone era of explorers, the msy Wind Star, with its sleek lines and computerized controls, was revolutionary in concept and design. Windstar''s ships are officially masted-sail-yachts (msy), but the designation belies the vessels unique rigging. Unfurling in two minutes at the push of a button, billowing white sails reach to the sky. All functions are operated from the bridge by computer micro-chips and navigational devices. The unusual "open-bridge" operation allows guests to drop by and acquaint themselves with the veteran captains and officers who demonstrate the ship''s intriguing capabilities to modern day explorers. The 148-passenger Wind Star was joined by sister ships the msy Wind Song in 1987, and msy Wind Spirit in 1988. A new era in luxury cruising was now being pioneered by Windstar Cruises. Nearly a decade later in 1998, the 308-passenger msy Wind Surf was acquired by Windstar. Sailing originally as Club Med I, the Wind Surf was built in 1990 in the same shipyard to strikingly similar specifications as her sister ships, making her a perfect match for the four fleet family. Windstar Cruises Shipboard Life Windstar''s unique concept of sailing has lead the cruise industry in the luxury small ship, casual attire, and alternative dining arenas. Pioneering and refining these concepts has earned Windstar an excellent reputation and market niche, winning the allegiance of a new generation of contemporary cruise vacationers, one-third of whom are first-time cruisers. Teak decking, rich wood interiors, an attentive service staff, intimate surroundings, eclectic artwork, exceptional signature cuisine featuring both light and vegetarian menu selections, and an extensive wine list are some of the extraordinary elements which have become synonymous with Windstar. Features unique to the Wind Surf include 31 deluxe suites, a Business/Internet Center, The Bistro, and the 10,000 square foot WindSpa offering a full array of spa treatments, consultative, health and fitness programs. Windstar Cruises Passengers are cradled in comfort as all staterooms and suites offer ocean views, sitting area, TV, VCR, CD player, safe, mini-bar/refrigerator, international direct- dial phones, bathroom with toiletries, hair dryer, plush robes, and plenty of closet space. The library on board stocks an array of international newspapers, books and games, as well as a multi-media selection of more than 500 video titles and compact discs available for complimentary check-out. Carrying just 148 to 308 guests, Windstar cruise ships exude a private yacht-like atmosphere creating camaraderie and lasting friendships between fellow sailors. Every day aboard Windstar brings the promise of new horizons and harbors to explore. Windstar Cruises Destinations and Activities Newly announced destinations for 2003 include Northern Europe, Baltic, Malta and Tunisia. New itineraries complement tried and true Windstar favorites such as the Greek and Turkish Isles, Mediterranean, Caribbean, Virgin Islands, French Polynesia and Trans-Atlantic crossings. An interesting mix of shore excursions and complimentary water sports activities are available at each destination. Passengers may find themselves slicing through Caribbean waters aboard an actual America''s Cup racing yacht, or exploring archaeological ruins in Greece, the "Cradle of Civilization." Water buffs can enjoy complimentary water-skiing, windsurfing, snorkeling, kayaking and "banana" boat rides from the ship''s aft Water Sports Platform. Windstar's cruise vacations offer a sea-side window on the world, combining the refinement of a luxury hotel with a moveable feast of cultural experiences. Seattle-based Windstar Cruises operates the 308-passenger Wind Surf and 148- passenger Wind Star and Wind Spirit. The three sailing yachts cruise to over 47 countries worldwide offering an affordable luxury vacation. Note: The Crystal Cruise prices listed in this guide are published fares - we often have cruise specials at substantially lower rates. Please use our "Cruise Vacation Planner" and our agents will tell you about all available specials. We are a member of Virtuoso - Specialists in the Art of Travel. Described by Conde Nast Traveler as "a network 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, ESPN TV, Fine Living TV, and Neiman Marcus Awards Program and National Geographic. During this time of price volatility in the travel and cruise industry, please be advised the pricing can fluctuate within the same day. All of our promotions are subject to change without notice. As a result, prices will not be guaranteed until you make a deposit. Click here to book your Windstar Cruise Vacation Click here to submit a vacation planner to our Virtuoso Travel Specialists Client Testimonials Search Your Vacation, Tour or Cruise Windstar Cruises Cruise Information The Windstar Fleet Wind Spirit & Wind Star Wind Surf Windstar Dining Experience A Typical Day Aboard WindSpa Other Helpful Travel Links Helpful Cruise Info Contact Us Full Service Luxury WindStar Cruise Vacation Planner Click here to save money, time and stress planning, making reservations, or booking your luxury WindStar vacation with our full service Virtuoso Travel Consultants. We are recommended, authorized Virtuoso Travel Consultants, 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 Travel Consultants, but first, we'd really appreciate it if you complete our "Luxury WindStar Cruise 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 luxury vacation . Full Service, Worldwide Luxury 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 Virtuoso--Travel Consultants 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 luxury tour vacation . Regional Travel and Vacation Guides Africa Asia Australia Caribbean Islands Canada Central America Europe Fiji Islands Hawaiian Islands Indian Ocean Costa Rica Mexico Mediterranean Middle East New Zealand South America South Pacific Tahiti Islands United States Special Interest Vacations Corporate Vacations Adventure Travel Ski Vacations Culinary Vacations Small Ship Vacations Virtuoso Hotels Spa Vacations Private Jet Vacations Family Vacations Food and Wine Scuba Diving All-inclusive Vacations River Cruises Luxury Villas Luxury Tours Honeymoon Specials Wedding Vacations National Geographic Space Adventures Yacht Charters Golfing Vacations Active Vacations Biking Vacations Hiking Vacations Sports Travel Train Vacations ClubMed Vacations Luxury Cruise Destinations Luxury Cruises Cruise Vacations South Pacific/Tahiti Hawaiian Islands Scandinavia Alaska Cruises Caribbean Panama Canal Mexico Cruises Mediterranean West Europe Western British Isles/ Ireland Greek Isle/Aegean Bermuda Cruises Costa Rica South America River Amazon Antarctica Australia/New Zealand Bahamas Africa Southern Canarys/North Africa Far East/Orient Southeast Asia Trans-Atlantic Trans-Pacific Russia Europe East Coast Cruises India Cruises Israel/Egypt New England/Canada Red Sea/Suez Canal West Coast World Cruises Baltic/Russia Luxury Cruise Lines Crystal Cruises Radisson Seven Seas Windstar Cruises Clipper Cruises Silversea Cruises Oceania Cruises Am West Steamboat Princess Cruises European River Norwegian Cruise ResidenSea Holland America Line Sea Dream Yacht Club American Safari Travel Dynamics Seabourn Cruise Orient Express Royal Caribbean Orient Lines Star Clippers Cunard Line Costa Cruises Cruise West Celebrity Cruises National Geographic Hebridean Cruises MSC Cruises Lindblad Expeditions Peter Deilmann Viking River Cruises Swan Hellenic Delta Queen River Zegrahm Expeditions Disney Cruises Tauck Discovery French Waterways The Moorings Int'l Expeditions Carnival Cruise Great American River Journeys About Travel Wizard Advertising Info Privacy Contact Information Home We accept credit cards: During this time of price volatility in the travel, tour and cruise industry, please be advised the Windstar Cruises pricing can fluctuate within the same day. All of our promotions are subject to change without notice. As a result, Windstar Cruises 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, Windstar Cruises Vacation Dept. All rights reserved.
Germany Travel
Wurzburg, Germany - Travel Photos by Galen R Frysinger,Sheboygan, Wisconsin Wrzburg Marienberg Wrzburg , city in southwestern Germany, in Bavaria, on the Main River. It is a railroad junction, an industrial center, and the commercial hub of an agricultural region noted for its vineyards. The leading manufactures of the city include wine and beer, machinery, scientific instruments, paper, pianos, chemicals, and textiles. colorful parish church Among the architectural landmarks in Wrzburg are a Romanesque cathedral, rebuilt after receiving severe damage in World War II (1939-1945), which contains works by the sculptor Tilman Riemenschneider; Neumnster Church, a chiefly Romanesque structure with an 18th-century baroque facade; a 15th-century stone bridge spanning the Main; the Marienberg fortress atop the Leistenberg, which was the episcopal residence from 1261 to 1720, and which now houses a museum with an extensive collection of Riemenschneider's works; the Julius hospital (founded 1576); and the large rococo episcopal and ducal palace (1720-1744). the old bridge (1373 - 1543) The city is the site of a university (1582); the physicist Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen discovered X rays in 1895 while he was a professor in Wrzburg. The painter Matthias Grnewald was born and completed much work in the city. Julius hospital (founded 1576) its courtyard Memorial to its benefactors famous for its wine production First used as a fortification by Celts, the city was the site of the martyrdom of Saint Kilian, Christian missionary, in 689. Wrzburg was founded by Christianized Franks, and in 741 it became an episcopal see. In front of the New Residence the statue of the Bishop is looking at his older residence (Marienberg) in the background. the new residence rococo episcopal and ducal palace (1720-1744). as seen from the garden the Bishop's crest in the residence chapel the Baroque pulpit the Baroque ceiling In succeeding centuries the bishops of Wrzburg were prominent also as temporal princes, and they controlled a substantial area. The bishopric was secularized in 1801, assigned to Bavaria in 1803, and transferred to Ferdinand III, the dispossessed grand duke of Tuscany, in 1805. It passed to Bavaria in 1815. During World War II the city sustained extensive damage from air raids, but its historic buildings have been reconstructed. sculpture in the residence garden Population of Wurzburg (1990 estimate) 125,589. Returnto Germany page Returnto Europe page Returnto People and Places
Spain Travel
Freelance Spain - Travel Facts Spain Destination Spain DESTINATIONS AT A GLANCE Want to discover one of the world's favorite countries? Here are some basic facts for the traveler in Spain. When to go In general, late spring and late summer-early autumn are the best times for traveling in Spain. Fair weather is practically guaranteed, and the countryside is at its best. High summer is stiflingly hot in most inland areas, including Madrid and the inland cities of Andalusia such as Seville and Crdoba. Big cities, especially Madrid, empty during August, with many shops and restaurants closing, though a visit then does have advantages, such as light traffic (you can even find a parking space). Summer weather is milder along the Mediterranean coast, but July and August in popular resorts such as the Costa del Sol are best avoided unless you like crowds. Summer along the northern coast of Spain, from the Basque Country to Galicia, can be very pleasant. Winters along the Mediterranean coast are generally mild, but expect occasional heavy rains - alternating with long spells of glorious sunshine - any time between October and April. In inland areas, winter temperatures can reach below freezing and snow is is not infrequent. Bear in mind Spain's fiestas when planning a trip - be it to go to them, or to avoid them. During major fiestas such as the San Fermin bull runs in Pamplona or the April Fair in Seville, hotel rates double and even so rooms must be reserved months in advance. Getting There Practically all transcontinental flights land at Madrid's Barajas airport, so you will need to book an extra flight if you want to travel by air to another destination in Spain. Air fares between North America and Europe are highly competitive. You might find it cheaper to fly to Spain via another European country. Rates between Great Britain and any number of destinations in Spain are especially worth checking out. Rail communications between the rest of Europe and Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia and Seville are very good. There are also regular ferries between southern England and northern Spain. Major cities in Spain are well connected to continental Europe and each other by motorway. Entry Formalities If you are a citizen of a European Union country, all you need to enter Spain is a national identity card. In the case of the United Kingdom, which does not issue such cards, you'll need a passport. Visas for stays of no longer than 90 days are not required for travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia or New Zealand, but South Africans do need to apply for a visa before they leave. Language A knowledge of Spanish will enrichen a trip to Spain, but you can get by perfectly well with English in the major destinations. Spaniards are in general friendly and tolerant towards foreign visitors. Getting Around Spain is a big country - the second largest in western Europe after France - so don't expect to "do Spain" in a week. Flights between Spanish cities are frequent, but the fares tend to be high. Iberia, Spanair and Air Europa are the major operators. Train service between the larger cities is excellent, and irreproachably punctual, but slower in the case of smaller regional cities. The bus is an inexpensive alternative. Driving in Spain Renting a car is a reasonably-priced option, and by far the best way to travel if you want to enjoy Spain's rich and varied countryside. The major international car hire firms operate in Spain; local companies usually charge somewhat cheaper rates. In any case, it is usually a better bet to reserve and pay for your rental car from home, before you leave. To rent a car you have to be over 21 and have a valid driver's license. Your national license is valid for driving in Spain as a tourist. Major roads are generally good, though traffic can be heavy on more popular routes, especially on weekends or during holiday periods. Local roads range from good and pleasant to hair-raisingly narrow and winding. Enquire locally before embarking on a driver to a distant village, and don't take a road just because it is a reassuring color on the road map. Avoid driving in cities: it can be a nightmare experience, especially if you're unfamiliar with the city or with some of the quirkier local driving habits. Park in a guarded parking area, and take a taxi, which are very good value in Spain. In Madrid, it's worth familiarizing yourself with the excellent Metro (subway) system. Money Matters The official currency in Spain is the Euro Credit cards are widely accepted in Spain, Visa and Masters more so than American Express or Diners. Provided you know your Personal Identification Number, you can use your card to withdraw cash from ATMs in Spain. Often, you'll find the rate of exchange is more favorable than if you go to a bank or exchange bureau. When exchanging money at a bank, avoid converting small amounts at a time, as the minimum commission charged can be prohibitive. Most Spanish banks close in the afternoon, all day Saturday during summer, and all day Sunday year round. Value added tax (IVA) is charged on purchases, at a rate of 16% for most goods and services (it is 7% for hotel accommodation). If you are resident of a non-European Union country, you can get a refund of this tax on purchases over 100 Euros in certain participating shops. The refund can be claimed at the airport customs office on your departure: you can either get cash there, or have them send a check to your home address or credit the amount to your credit card. Staying in Touch To call abroad from Spain, dial the international access code (00), then your country code (such as 1 for the US, 44 for Great Britain), then the number. If you have a phone card from your home company, you can place a call by dialing your company's access number in Spain: ATT 900 990 011 MCI 900 990 014 Sprint 900 990 013 British Telecom 900 990 044 Mobile phones can be used in Spain provided they conform to the European GSM standard and the "roam" feature is activated. Hotels In general, hotels in Spain are comfortable and good value. Hotels in large cities such as Madrid and Barcelona are around twice the price as hotels elsewhere in Spain. Hotels are rated from one to five stars, which gives a rough indication of their facilities, but not of the friendliness or efficiency of the service. Fodor's guide to Spain gives good, up-to-date information on hotels in the major Spanish destinations. Hotels often offer good deals in slower periods, such as summer in Madrid. When phoning for a reservation, always ask for the room rate, and enquire regarding special offers. Spanish hotels do not normally require your credit card number to accept a reservation. For more advice on choosing where to stay in Spain, see the article by Nick Inman on Hotels in Spain , and check our Guide to Hotels in Madrid, Barcelona, Bilbao, Granada and Seville. Electrical Current The electrical current in Spain is 200 volts, 50 cycles AC. Plugs are of the continental type, with two round prongs. American appliances require a transformer and a plug adapter for use in Spain. Have A Question? If you have a question regarding any aspect of traveling in Spain, you can obtain personalized travel information from the experts by visiting guidebookwriters.com . In addition, you can post a message in our Forum section to request information or exchange views with other travelers to Spain. For useful on-line sources of information for travelers, head for our Links section and click on "Travel". DESTINATIONS AT A GLANCE : Madrid - Barcelona - Bilbao - Granada - Seville Almera desert - La Mancha - Formentera Canary Islands: La Palma - Canary Islands: Puerto de la Cruz FREELANCESPAIN HOME Freelance Spain Showcase - Journalists - Photographers Features - Travel - People - Freelance Selections - Editor'sShortcut - Links little@spainview.com