Europe Travel Planner 10

Eastern Europe Travel Planner Web TransitionsAbroad.com Home Work Study Travel Living Transitions Abroad Magazine September/October 2000 Related Topics Independent Travel Budget Travel More by the Author Work in Prague Paying Bills Back Home Eastern Europe Travel Planner 10 Tips for Visiting “The Other Europe” By Mishelle Shepard It’s true that the majority of Eastern European destinations are not for every traveler. Those who seek comfort and luxury should probably not venture far beyond capital cities like Prague, Budapest, Berlin, Tallinn, and Warsaw. But for those wishing to travel beyond the tourist zone and seek real off-the-beaten path places, people and experiences, Eastern Europe has countless options. Musicians add ambiance to a stroll on the famous St. Charles Bridge in Prague (Photo by Kent St. John) Guidebooks and locals have different definitions of what exactly constitutes “Eastern” and “Central” and “Southern” Europe. Including Albania and Romania with the same traveling advice given for the Czech Republic and former East Germany poses loads of obvious problems. Still, some general tips apply to many countries and can help alleviate minor discomforts. Bring Some Necessities I laughed the first time I left for Eastern Europe in 1990 and my grandfather told me to bring toilet paper. Thinking surely since his visit to communist Russia in the 70s there’s been some improvement, I dismissed the idea. Little did I know that after a couple of weeks I would be begging my family to send me even a 4-pack of bargain brand. Although I wouldn’t dream of loading myself down with such things as kleenex, plastic zipper bags, feminine products, or anti-perspirant, outside the main capitals such things are still difficult to come by. Even in a decent restaurant in a major capital the toilet paper resembles something close to a thin brown-paper lunch bag, and in public facilities it’s rationed according to a per-square price. I consider traveling with emergency reserve tissue an absolute necessity. Choosing Accommodations Planning ahead online is now so convenient that it’s a waste of time not to make reservations when traveling to the major cities in summer. In general, however, even where accommodations are plentiful there can be lack of mid-priced choices. The convenient and popular chains that have sprung up all over the West have not yet filtered deeply into Eastern Europe. • When considering where to stay, a good up-to-date guidebook with phone numbers of accommodations in your price range provides quick and easy piece of mind. Some countries also have extensive hotel and pension listings online that offer discounted reservations, but a follow-up call or fax is still a good idea. • In smaller towns, hotels are reasonably priced and can be found right in the town center. Remember, however, that public transportation stops early in the small towns and a lack of taxis could find you stranded. Even in a heavily touristed spa town like Karlovy Vary during the International Film Festival, a stay in the pedestrian center with breakfast in a well-run 2-star hotel costs about $40. • Pensions are a good budget choice in larger cities and are usually friendlier than a crowded hotel. Still, pensions are only a good option when they’re close to public transport, because a late night taxi ride when public transportation is sparse can quickly offset the savings in room cost. The same goes for private rooms offered by individuals—changing from bus to subway to tram can cost considerable time and money. • When alone, a hostel can’t be beat for meeting other travelers. “Junior” hotels are a similar option in many Eastern European countries and they often rent bikes and other sports equipment. And hostels are not just for students, they offer an affordable alternative for families and other budget-minded travelers. • Camping is a great way to meet lots of locals, but, of course, packing gear is inconvenient when traveling around a city. As in Western Europe, the bungalows fill up quickly in summer, so hauling around a tent may be unavoidable. Unfortunately, in a few countries the camping facilities might be the best accommodations available. Money In major cities credit cards are an easy and safe bet, but not some pensions and campgrounds or smaller bars and restaurants. When paying with a credit card outside the capitals, be warned, sometimes the machine is (mysteriously) broken, and you’ll be asked to pay in cash. If it’s absolutely necessary for you to pay by card, it’s best to make sure in advance. Cash machines are easy to come by in cities, but rare in villages. Carrying cash to smaller destinations is unavoidable, but costs are still relatively low outside the popular spots, so a little goes a long way. The foreigner pricing system still exists but is becoming less common because merchants realize travelers don’t appreciate spending two times the normal price for the same services. Not everything is a bargain in Eastern Europe and doing a bit of research can help you avoid mistaken assumptions or false claims. For example, skiing in some Eastern European destinations is just not worth the meager reduction in cost when you consider the T-lifts, crowds and quality of rental equipment. Beyond the Capitals Traveling as an English-speaker to small towns and villages may get you some longer-than-average looks, but it will also get you warm hospitality, a more authentic perception of local life and some great cross-cultural experiences. Choosing a destination depends on your interests. For first-time travelers, it can be less isolating and still very rewarding to visit vacation destinations that are popular with Eastern Europeans but fairly untouched by native English-speakers. Places like the Great Masurian Lakes near the border between Poland and Lithuania, the coast of Croatia, the Giant Mountains of Slovakia, or the spa towns in many countries are good choices. UNESCO world heritage sites, such as Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, the medieval town of Torun in Poland, or the famous caves of Slovakia and Slovenia are also interesting destinations. It can be fun to plan a“theme trip,” focusing on historical sites and castles, wine regions, or tracing your roots. To Drive or Not to Drive When renting or buying a car for exploring Eastern Europe you have to consider all the hidden expenses. Many countries have toll roads that require you to have a sticker or else dish out a hefty fine on the spot. Sometimes extra insurance is required for cars originating from the West, and gas prices are very high. City-to-city travel by car usually isn’t worth it for groups of less than four. On the other hand, driving can be beneficial if you have limited time and want to see as many places as possible, including all the quaint country villages and castles along the way. Getting Educated For many of us, even the biggest culture hounds, Eastern Europe has remained largely a mystery. Misinformation during communist times has been followed by a general lack of information since. Still, there are numerous books, including Eva Hoffman’s Exit into History, that poignantly describe the culture, politics and history of the region in an entertaining style. There are also some very informative web sites on Eastern Europe. When researching the culture, don’t exclude fiction, especially books written by communist dissidents. A much truer picture of the people, their dreams and their difficulties will emerge than if you limit yourself to non-fiction. Another good cultural education option is to see popular locally produced films, which you can often view with English subtitles at cinemas in the capital cities. Opportunities for work and study are continually expanding, although most economies are still in heavy transition. Those countries hoping for EU entry are adopting stricter visa regulations, so it pays to keep up-to-date at the various embassy web sites. In the major cities, there are many news sources that will keep you up-to-date, and internet cafes have changed the face of traveling altogether. From keeping in touch with family and friends, to knowing what’s going on in town to meeting people, nothing beats the convenience of on-line access when abroad. The Dreaded Languages Unfortunately most of us didn’t have a couple of years of college Ukrainian and Polish along with our French and Spanish. In Western Europe, most travelers can usually manage, but in off-the-beaten-path Poland the choice is to either to improve your gesturing skills or grow very attached to your phrasebook. If you’re staying for more than a few days, it’s worth the effort to learn some of the language. It’s not easy, but you’ll be rewarded with mountains of praise from the locals. There’s no need to take formal lessons unless you plan to work or go to school. Instead, just try offering an exchange of English for Czech, Hungarian, or whatever, and chances are you can work out a mutually beneficial arrangement. Speaking Russian in most countries won’t win you a popularity contest. The few locals who remember their required Russian don’t usually care to speak it and would rather try their hand at charades or even very broken English. Services Although it’s true the atmosphere has changed considerably in the last ten years, that change has stayed primarily in the capital centers. But even in the capitals, old habits die hard. Service varies widely between downright “tippable” to completely aggravating. However, many of us are spoiled. I, personally, can’t recall ever getting better service anywhere in Europe (with the exception of London) than I get regularly in the States. The rule I try to stand by is, don’t pay any more attention to the service than they pay to you. That way when it’s good you’re pleasantly surprised and when it’s not you hardly notice. This attitude has taken a bit of training, but it’s been worth it in the long run. Meeting the Locals Visiting the local festivals is a great way to meet people in a milieu that is not necessarily language-dependent. Medieval reenactments, world championship sporting events, or traveling Romany festivals attract more locals than tourists. It’s easy to find out what’s going on by simply asking around, checking information centers, or reading the monthly cultural guides available in cities and on-line. Not only have many of the natives changed in the past ten years, the ex-pats have as well. The number of ex-pats living in the most popular Eastern European capitals has actually gone down since its height not long after “the fall.” Hanging out at one of the typical ex-pat bars for the true cross-culture seeker used to mean selling out and choosing cultural “isolation,” but now many of the foreigners living here are in intercultural marriages and actually speak the language or heartily try. Moreover, the locals have found the ex-pat hangouts a great place to meet young travelers and practice their English. Shunning the ex-pat scene today could mean missing out on where the jobs are or the chance to meet locals who are looking to get to know you. The Invitation More so than in Western Europe, social life takes place in people’s homes. Just a bit of preplanning is a sure-fire way to meet people even before you arrive. More than once I’ve started correspondences with people on-line and had the time of my life when they invited me over once I arrived in town. It’s important to be cautious, of course, but an invitation to a local’s home opens otherwise tightly closed doors. Rustic weekend cottages and garden plots play a big role in local life in many countries and are a great way to really get to know people. What began as a practical and economical alternative to traveling remains a favorite escape from the city and a special treat for the honored guest. The East in general has retained a sense of formality and hierarchy that has become foreign to most of the West. At the same time, Eastern Europeans seem to expect the traveler to break the rules. The same faux pas that would probably get you a repressed sneer in France will be noticed with only a subdued snicker in Poland. Reading up on the local customs will remind you that taking off your shoes in someone’s home, bringing a small bouquet to the host, avoiding probing questions over dinner, sitting with strangers at a restaurant and other common courtesies are not typically shared by westerners. Perhaps undeservedly, Americans (and other native English speakers) are, for the most part, still adored in most of Eastern Europe. Of course, there has been quite a bit of “demystification” on both sides in the last ten years, but now even among the older generations apprehension has been replaced by full-fledged curiosity. That means the typical tourist misses out on great opportunities for a real cross-cultural experience while their eyes are glued to the cathedrals and their ears are pinned to the city guide. Many first-timers from the West are surprised how far the major cities have come compared to what they’ve read or seen in the past. Other travelers notice how little has really changed in some of the more remote villages. One thing is certain, though; while prices are still low and locals still curious, it’s well worth it to take advantage of this part of the world and appreciate what is undoubtedly a fleeting moment in time. Selected Web Sites www.inyourpocket.com . www.centraleurope.com . www.cdc.gov/travel/easteurp.htm. goeasteurope.about.com/mbody.htm. www.culturekiosk.com . www.hotelscentral.com . www.adventureguide.com . www.concierge.com . Newsflashes General Complying with EU regulations means many countries are updating visa policies. All Canadian tourists will need a visa to travel to the Czech Republic in 2001. Long-term visas are already required for Americans, but the requirements for obtaining one may become less stringent. Slovakia Food and service is still regularly improving and many new options have opened in Bratislava’s The Old Market Place. The new Montana’s Grizzly Bar has already become a popular hang out. Czech Republic In Karlovy Vary the famed Nezvala theatre of Helmer and Fellner, complete with the original curtain by G. and E. Klimt and F. Matsch, has finally reopened after several years of reconstruction. The annual International Film Festival, which takes place in early July, is gaining more international recognition every year. The 1999 appearance of Woody Harrelson caused quite a stir, and Milos Forman is a regular favorite. Prague was chosen as one of the European cities of culture for 2000. Under the broad theme of “cultural heritage” the city has different activities planned throughout the year. The famed ex-pat meetingplace and bookstore The Globe has moved to a bigger and better location: Pstrossova 6 in Prague 1. Eastern Germany This year marked the third year for the annual Summerfest of Theatres in Berlin, for budget travelers it’s a great way to enjoy scenes of local productions for free. The Erotic Museum is an interesting alternative for travelers tired of the run-of-the-mill art and history museums. Poland Krakow, is another of the Year 2000 cities of culture, plans to extend the cultural events into a 5-year program to promote tourism. For nightlife seekers in Krakow the new In Vitro dance club is a popular hip-but-cheap option. Slovenia The international summer festival in Ljubljana is getting bigger and better every year. Not to be missed is the International Biennial of Graphic Arts at the Museum of Modern Art. The Julian Alps are a cheaper alternative to a mountain getaway than her Austrian and Italian neighbors, but expect higher prices than other Eastern European countries. MISHELLE SHEPARD is a freelance writer currently teaching English and French at Charles Univ. in Prague. She served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Czech Republic from 1994-96. You may contact her at mischelleshepard@hotmail.com . Web TransitionsAbroad.com Home Work Study Travel Living Disclaimer ©Transitions Abroad

Asia Travel || Indonesia

Travel Information of Indonesia Indonesia Country and Travel Information Climate || Visas || Customs || Transport || Currency || Tipping || Clothing Office hours || Food || Shopping || Culture || Public holidays Tourist Destinations || Map of Indonesia Introduction The Republic of Indonesia is the world's largest archipelago and is the fifth most populous country, with 17,700 islands streching 5,120 kms (3,200 miles) between Australia and the Asian mainland. Population and Language 200 million people are distributed throughout 27 provinces. However, 55% of these people are concentrated on Java, Bali and Madura, on only 7% of the total area. Climate A tropical country, with humidity ranging from 69% - 95%, there are two seasons: Dry Season, from May to October and Wet Season, from November to April. It should be noted that occasional showers do occur during the dry season; similarly, during the "rainy" season it is more likely that heavy tropical down-pours are interspersed with sunshine. Average temperatures range f rom 68 to 86 or 20 to 30C . Passport and Visas Visitors must arrive in Indonesia with passports valid for at least six months after arrival and with onward or return tickets. Visas are not required for nationals of: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Philippines, New Zealand, Singapore,South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States of America and West Germany. A non-extendable tourist pass for citizens of these is issued for a maximum of 60 days with entry and departure through: Airports: Medan, Batam, Pekanbaru, Padang, Jakarta, Bali, Manado, Ambon, Biak,Ku pang, Pontianak, Balikpapan and Surabaya; Seaports: Medan, Batam, Jakarta, Surabaya, Semarang, Riau, Bali, Manado, and Ambon. Through other ports, a visa is required. Nationals of countries not listed above can obtain 30-day tourist visas from any Indonesian embassy or consulate abroad. Health Certificates International certificates for smallpox and cholera are not required and yellow fever vaccination are necessary only for visitors coming from infected areas. Customs Each adult is permitted to bring, on entry, a maximum of two litres of alcoholic beverages, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100 grams of tobacco and a reasonable quantity of perfume. Photographic equipment and typewriters must be declared and are admitted provided they are taken out on departure. Prohibited from entry are the following items: narcotics, arms and ammunition, TV sets, radio and radio casette recorders, pornography, fresh fruit, printed matters in Chinese characters and Chinese medicine. All movie films and video casettes will have to be deposited for review by the Film Censor Board. There is no restriction on import and export of foreign currencies and travellers cheque; however, import or export Indonesia currency exceeding Rp 50,000,- is prohibited. Airport Tax Airport tax levied on passengers for international travel is Rp 17,000,-. While for travel within Indonesia it varies from one region to another with an average of Rp 3,500,- for each departure. Top Transportation An airconditioned airport-hotel shuttle service, operates frequently scheduled trips to/from major hotels to coincide with flights from Jakarta's international airport at a cost of approx Rp 4,000,per person. Taxis at a higher rate, are also available with metered taxis operating only in Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Semarang and Solo. Elsewhere, other forms of transportation, which required setting the fare in advance, include minicars for two passengers, "bemos" or small buses covering regular routes and "becaks" powered by human energy. Trains operate in Java and parts of Sumatra. Garuda Indonesia has an extensive networkof dailyflights toallcitiesinthe 27 provinces. These flights are supplemented by domestic air services on Merpati, Nusantara, Mandala and Bouraq . Currency The local currency is the Rupiah. Foreign currencies, either banknotes or travellers cheques, are easily exchangedatbanks and moneychangers in major tourist destinations. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants in main cities. It is advisable to carry sufficient amounts of Rupiah when travelling to smaller towns or outer provinces. Tipping Major hotels add a 10% service charge to bills. Where it is not included a tip of between 5% to 10% of the bill would be appropriate if service is satisfactory. Airport poterage is Rp 500,- for a small bag and Rp 1,000,- if weighing more than 20 kg. Tipping taxi and hire-car drivers is not mandatory, but Rp 500,would be sufficient for a taxi driver, but more for a hire-car driver. Clothing Dress is generally informal in Indonesia. Light fabrics are recommendeddue to the warm, humid climate. For men, a jacket and tie is considered appropriate when making officials calls or non formal occasions. Or, follow local custom by wearing a long-sleeve batik shirt. It is recommended to bring a sweater or light jacket for travel to mountain areas. Shorts and beachwear are not considered appropriate except at sports facilities and on the beaches, and never appropriate for visits to temples, mosques and other places of worship. Top Office Hours Government offices: Monday - Thursday 8 am to 3 pm Friday 8 am to 11.30 am Saturday Saturday 8 am to 2 pm Business offices Monday - Friday 8 or 9 am to 4 or 5 pm Some offices are open half day on Saturday. Banks: Monday - Friday 8 am to 3 pm Food The main staple food of the majority of the population is rice. Coconut milk and hot chili peppers are popular cooking ingredients nationwide. Tastes range from very spicy dishes of meat; fish and vegetables to those that are quite sweet. The most popular dishes are "nasi goreng" (fried rice) which is otten served for breakfast, lunch or dinner, "satay" barbequed meat or chicken on skewers and "gado-gado", a vegetable salad with a pean ut sauce.All are most compatible with internationaltastes. Inthemaintouristcenters and cities, restaurants catering to international visitors are many, from fine continental grill rooms to Japanese specialty restaurants. Chinese restaurants are found in all towns throughout Indonesia. Tropical and subtropical fruits are available yearround. Bottled drinking water can be purchased everywhere. Shopping Many of Indonesia's main cities have department stores, supermarkets and large shopping complexes, open generally from 9 am to 8 pm, where fixed prices prevail. In local markets and small shops bargaining is the rule. Time Indonesia streches across three time zones:Western Indonesia (Sumatra, Java, West and Cen tral Kalimantan) + 7 GMTCentral Indonesia (Bali, South and East Kalimantan, Sula wesi, Nusa Teng gara) + 8 GMTEast Indonesia (Maluku and Irian Jaya) , +9 GMT Electricity Most hotels use 220 volts 50 cycles and two-pronged plugs. However it is not uncommon to find some hotels using 110 volts, particularly in the provinces. Check before using an appliance. Some hotels supply adaptors on request. Communication Long distance calls within Indonesia may be made by direct dialing through International Direct Dial (IDD) in major cities or through operator-assisted calls. Telex and fax services are readily available in major hotels and larger cities. Top Culture and Traditions Indonesians are a very friendly and polite people. Handshaking is customary, for both men and women, on introduction and greeting, smiling is a national characteristics. The population is predominantly Moslem. Nevertheless, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism and other religions are freely practiced. Traditional customs form a major part of family and community life. The use of the left hand to give or receive is considered ill-mannered. Likewise crooking your finger to call someone is impolite. Public Holidays January 1 New Year Feb 20, 21 Idul Fitri Festival March 21 Seclusion Day / Saba New Year April 5 Good Friday April 28 Idul Adha Great Day May 16 Ascention day of Christ May 19 Hijriah New Year June 2 Waisak Day July 28 Maulid of Prophet Mumammad August 17 National Independence Day Dec 8 Isra Miraj of Prophet Muhammad December 25 Christmas Day Top Asia Travel || Indonesia Hotel and Resorts

FRANCE Travel Guide Overview

VirtualTourist.com - le-de-France Travel Guide - Pictures, Tips and Reviews le-de-France Travel Guide. Tips, Reviews & Photos plus Hotels, Restaurants, Activities & More in le-de-France member log in | join for free! | help Home Travel Guides Hotels Flights Deals NEW! Members Meetings & Events Do It Yourself Guides Forums LE-DE-FRANCE Travel Guide Overview | Hotels | Forum | Things To Do | Top Member Pages | Deals | Members | Meetings & Events Home » Travel Guides » Europe » France » le-de-France Destinations Members Keywords Sponsored Links for le-de-France Marriott Hotels Enjoy stylish luxury hotels with Marriott's new rooms. Book now. Hotels Compare Prices, View Photos & More! Low Rates Guaranteed - Book Now Priceline Hotel Discounts Great Low Prices, Pictures, and Guest Reviews. Shop. Compare. Save. 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(2 replies, 2:43 AM May. 12, 2005) Be the first to reply to these questions Asking for room (no replies yet) Question about Versailles (no replies yet) Metro (no replies yet) » All le-de-France Discussions » Post a le-de-France Discussion Travel Resources Car Rental Cruises Vacations Luggage NEW! le-de-France Deals » All le-de-France Deals » Post a le-de-France Deal FREE VT Deals Newsletter great deals, inside tips & no spam le-de-France Flight Rates From: To: Departure Date: Anytime Morning Afternoon Evening Midnight 01:00 AM 02:00 AM 03:00 AM 04:00 AM 05:00 AM 06:00 AM 07:00 AM 08:00 AM 09:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM Noon 01:00 PM 02:00 PM 03:00 PM 04:00 PM 05:00 PM 06:00 PM 07:00 PM 08:00 PM 09:00 PM 10:00 PM 11:00 PM Return Date: Anytime Morning Afternoon Evening Midnight 01:00 AM 02:00 AM 03:00 AM 04:00 AM 05:00 AM 06:00 AM 07:00 AM 08:00 AM 09:00 AM 10:00 AM 11:00 AM Noon 01:00 PM 02:00 PM 03:00 PM 04:00 PM 05:00 PM 06:00 PM 07:00 PM 08:00 PM 09:00 PM 10:00 PM 11:00 PM Passengers: 1 2 3 4 Flights by OneTime.com Popular Destinations in le-de-France Paris Versailles Marne-la-Valle Fontainebleau Provins le de la Cit Le Petit-Paris Neuilly-sur-Seine Chapet Le Bourget Nanterre Rambouillet Puteaux Villefranche Issy-les-Moulineaux Meaux Neufmoutiers-en-Brie Barbizon Villeroy Cergy-Pontoise Moret-sur-Loing Courbevoie Palaiseau Avon Maurepas » More Destinations in le-de-France Member Pages About le-de-France 1. 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Start: Today Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Thru: Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Adults (18-64) 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Minors (2-17) 0 1 2 3 4 5 Seniors (65+) 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Minor ages at time of travel. -?- 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 -?- 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 -?- 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 -?- 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 -?- 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Search Flights - or - Search Flights + Hotels One-way , Multi-destination , More search options From: To: Depart: 12:00am 1:00am 2:00am 3:00am 4:00am 5:00am 6:00am 7:00am 8:00am 9:00am 10:00am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm Morning Afternoon Evening Return: 12:00am 1:00am 2:00am 3:00am 4:00am 5:00am 6:00am 7:00am 8:00am 9:00am 10:00am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm Morning Afternoon Evening Travelers: (Max 6) Rooms: 1 2 3 4 Room 1: Adults (18-64) 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Children (2-17) 0 1 2 3 4 5 Seniors (65+) 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Room 2: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 0 1 2 3 4 5 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Room 3: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 0 1 2 3 4 5 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Room 4: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 0 1 2 3 4 5 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 Search Flights + Hotels Hotel in a Different City , Last Minute Deals Pick-up / drop-off the car: At an airport Near an address Near a place of interest Pick-up City or Airport: Place of Interest (US/Canada only) State: --- AK AL AR AZ CA CO CT DC DE FL GA HI IA ID IL IN KS KY LA MA MD ME MI MN MO MS MT NC ND NE NH NJ NM NV NY OH OK OR PA RI SC SD TN TX UT VA VT WA WI WV WY AB BC MB NB NF NS NT ON PE QC SK YT Pick-up: 12:00am 1:00am 2:00am 3:00am 4:00am 5:00am 6:00am 7:00am 8:00am 9:00am 10:00am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Drop-off: 12:00am 1:00am 2:00am 3:00am 4:00am 5:00am 6:00am 7:00am 8:00am 9:00am 10:00am 11:00am 12:00pm 1:00pm 2:00pm 3:00pm 4:00pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 7:00pm 8:00pm 9:00pm 10:00pm 11:00pm Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Car Type: 5 basic types Economy Compact Intermediate Standard Full Size Premium Luxury Convertible Station Wagon Van Sport Utility Pickup Truck Specialty Search Cars One way, coupons and other options , Flight+Hotel+Car Country: All Other Destinations Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bolivia Bonaire Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Chad Chile China Colombia Congo Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Curacao Cyprus Czech Republic Democratic Republic of the Congo Denmark Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador England Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Gibraltar Greece Grenadines Guatemala Guinea Guyana Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kenya Kuwait Laos Latvia Lebanon Liechtenstein Lithuania Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Monaco Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Netherlands Nevis New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Northern Mariana Islands Norway Pakistan Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saba San Marino Saudi Arabia Scotland Senegal Seychelles Islands Singapore Slovakia Slovenia South Korea Spain and Canary Islands Sri Lanka St. Barths St. Eustatius St. Kitts St. Lucia St. Martin/St. Maarten Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syrian Arab Republic Taiwan Tanzania Thailand Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turks and Caicos Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands British Virgin Islands US Western Samoa Yemen Zimbabwe All Other Destinations City or Airport Code: State/Province: --- AK AL AR AZ CA CO CT DC DE FL GA HI IA ID IL IN KS KY LA MA MD ME MI MN MO MS MT NC ND NE NH NJ NM NV NY OH OK OR PA RI SC SD TN TX UT VA VT WA WI WV WY AB BC MB NB NF NS NT ON PE QC SK YT Check-in: Check-out: Guests: Rooms: 1 2 3 4 5+ Room 1: Adults (18+) 1 2 3 4 5 6 Children (0-17) 0 1 2 3 4 5 Room 2: 1 2 3 4 5 6 0 1 2 3 4 5 Room 3: 1 2 3 4 5 6 0 1 2 3 4 5 Room 4: 1 2 3 4 5 6 0 1 2 3 4 5 Search Hotels Search by: Address, Points of Interest, Specific Hotel close [x] See highlighted element below Need ideas? 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CRUISE VACATION NORWEGIAN FJORD

Norway Vacation Cruise Tour Norway Norway Tour & Cruise Vacation Specialist NORWAY VACATION TOUR CRUISE NORWAY NORWAY TOUR SELECTION OSLO & BERGEN CITY PACKAGES - NORWAY Three hotel nights including: Full Scandinavian Buffet Breakfast Tax and Service Charges. A city sightseeing tour. Oslo Bergen NORWAY IN WINTER ALTA City of Northern Lights 5 days/4 nights Jan 01 thru April 30 Arctic Winter Safari Spitsbergen 6 days/5 nights March - April Spitsbergen Dogsled Safari A five-day program in Longyearbyen and Svea Norway in Winter Christmas in Karasjok Winter in Norway A TASTE OF GEILO Norway's premier ski resort Norway in Winter Lapland New Year Norway in Winter Norwegian Lapland KILLER WHALES EXCURSION Lofoten Norway ESCORTED TOURS - NORWAY Fjord Images Norway - Three Fjords Geiranger, Sogne and Nord Fjords Briksdal Glacier, Lillehammer & Bergen 6 days/5 nights Land of the Fjords Bergen - Oslo 6 days/5 nights Magic Fjord Images Hardanger Fjord, Sognefjord and Geirangerfjord 7 days/6 nights Fjords of Norway Oslo - Oslo 7 days/6 nights Four Fjord Images Geiranger, Nord, Sogne & Hardanger Fjords Briksdal Glacier & Bergen 7 days/6 nights Scenic Norway Oslo - Oslo 8 days/7 nights Prominent Fjords of Norway Tour 9 days/8 nights Above the Arctic Circle Tour 11 days/10 nights From Rovaniemi to Rovaniemi Trekking at the North Pole Rim A 13-day adventure through some of Svalbard's most spectacular mountain scenery. Spitsbergen Dogsled Safari A five-day program in Longyearbyen and Svea Arctic Winter Safari Spitsbergen 6 days/5 nights March - May NORWAY - DESIGN YOUR OWN TOUR SUGGESTIONS Norway In A Nutshell Oslo - Bergen or Bergen - Oslo Oslo - Oslo or Bergen - Bergen Taste of Balestrand Oslo - Bergen or Bergen - Oslo Daily Taste of A Glacier Oslo - Bergen or Bergen - Oslo Daily Taste of Gudvangen Oslo - Bergen or Bergen - Oslo Daily Taste of Flam Oslo - Bergen or Bergen - Oslo Daily T aste of Fjord Norway & a Stave Church Oslo - Gudvangen - Laerdal - Bergen or Bergen - Gudvangen - Laerdal - Oslo Including Flam Mountain Railway Taste of Hardangerfjord Bergen - Lofthus - Bergen (4 days) Taste of Hardanger & Flam Oslo - Lofthus - Bergen or Bergen - Lofthus - Oslo Daily Taste of Sognefjord & Hardangerfjord Bergen - Lofthus - Ulvik - Balestrand - Bergen Daily Taste of Stavanger Bergen - Stavanger - Oslo or Oslo - Stavanger - Bergen Daily Taste of Telemark Oslo-Dalen - Skien - Oslo Daily Jun 18-Aug 11 Taste of Arctic & Lapland Kirkenes - Helsinki or Helsinki - Kirkenes Daily Taste of the Coast, Geiranger & Trondheim Bergen - Trondheim - Oslo - 6 Days Taste of Trondheim and the Coast Oslo - Trondheim - Bergen Daily Taste of North Cape Tromso - Hammerfest - Honningsvag - Tromso Daily Taste of Geiranger lesund - Bergen Daily Jun 12- Aug 18 Taste of Lofoten & Whales Bodo - Svolvaer - Andenes Daily Taste of Arctic Scandinavia Tromso - Kautokeino - North Cape - Alta - Tromso Daily Taste of Historic Hotels Oslo-Bergen or Bergen - Oslo Daily Taste of Norway's Coast Oslo - Stockholm via Fjord Country Taste of the Norwegian Coastal Voyage The Ultimate Coastal Cruise 9 days/ 8 nights Norwegian Hotels Bergen Sightseeing Tours Oslo Sightseeing Tours More about Norway Webcam Links MAIN SELECTION OF TOURS & CRUISES NORWAY CRUISE VACATION NORWEGIAN FJORD & COASTAL CRUISES Fjord Cruises Our most popular excursions Norwegian Coastal Voyage With 34 ports of call, the Norwegian Coastal Voyage follows a stretch of coast characterized by vast distances, a sparse population and dramatic scenery. Taste of the Norwegian Coastal Voyage The Ultimate Coastal Cruise 9 days/ 8 nights Norway's Coast Oslo-Stockholm via Fjord Country Norway - Sweden 7 days Taste of the Coast, Geiranger & Trondheim Bergen - Trondheim - Oslo - 6 Days Arctic Adventure Cruise Spitsbergen's wild and beautiful north-west coast. Realm of the Polar Bear Svalbard's northernmost and eastern regions. Svalbard Norway Spitsbergen Wilderness Camp A 6-day summer experience with soft adventure. SCANDINAVIAN TOURS INCLUDING NORWAY Nordic Delight Denmark-Norway-Sweden Our most popular tour! Nordic Delight (incl. St. Petersburg & Tallinn) Our Bestseller With A New Twist Denmark-Norway-Sweden-Finland-Russia-Estonia Grand Tour of Scandinavia 15 days/14 nights Copenhagen - Helsinki Grand Tour of Scandinavia + Land of the Midnight Sun 18 days/17 nights Copenhagen Helsinki North Cape - Helsinki Land of the Midnight Sun 5 days/4 nights Helsinki-North Cape-Helsinki The Magic of Scandinavia with the Norwegian Fjords 11 days/10 nights Denmark - Norway - Sweden Tourist class The Scandinavian Capitals 9 days/8 nights + Extensions Complete Scandinavia in a Nutshell Bergen and the 4 Capitals, Helsinki, Stockholm, Oslo and Copenhagen 19 days/18 nights Superior Tourist class and First class hotels Magic Fjord Images & Sweden 9 days/8 nights Tourist or First Class Hotels From OSLO to STOCKHOLM Four Capitals Tour 8 nights Stockholm - Helsinki - Copenhagen - Oslo Four Capitals Tour & Fjords Extension 8 nights Stockholm - Helsinki - Copenhagen - Oslo 14 nights as above + extension Oslo - Oslo Scandinavian Panorama 10 nights Copenhagen - Oslo Scandinavian Panorama + Stockholm 12 nights Copenhagen - Stockholm Scandinavian Panorama + Stockholm & Baltic Cruise 14 nights Copenhagen - Helsinki - Stockholm Scenic Norway + Stockholm 10 days/9 nights Oslo - Stockholm Scenic Norway + Stockholm, Helsinki 12 days/11 nights Oslo Helsinki - Stockholm Scenic Norway + Stockholm, Helsinki & Copenhagen 13 nights Oslo - Copenhagen Northern Highlights 11 nights Oslo - Helsinki Northern Highlights + Land of the Midnight Sun 15 days/14 nights Oslo Stockholm- Helsinki North Cape-Helsinki Helsinki + Spectacular Scandinavia 14 nights Helsinki - Copenhagen - Oslo - Stockholm Heart of Scandinavia with the Norwegian Fjords 15 days/14 nights Denmark-Norway-Sweden Scandinavian Dream & Norwegian Fjords Tour 13 days/12 nights Norway-Sweden Scandinavia & North Cape Capitals & Lapland Finland - Norway - Sweden North Cape Midnight Sun Journey 5 Days Taste of the Top of Scandinavia Oslo to Helsinki Norway Finland SCANDINAVIAN TOURS INCLUDING NORWAY & RUSSIA Grand Tour of Scandinavia + St. Petersburg 18 nights Copenhagen - St. Petersburg - Helsinki Grand Tour of Scandinavia + St. Petersburg & Moscow 20 nights Copenhagen Oslo - Fjords - Stockholm Helsinki - St. Petersburg - Moscow Northern Highlights with St. Petersburg 15 nights Oslo - St Petersburg - Helsinki Northern Highlights with St Petersburg & Moscow 18 days/17 nights Nordic Delight (incl. St. Petersburg & Tallinn) Our Bestseller With A New Twist Denmark-Norway-Sweden-Finland-Russia-Estonia Home | Country Links | Main Menu | Rail Passes | City Packages | Hotel Cheques | Car Rentals | Maps | Reservations About Scantours General Conditions Travel Insurance Practical Tips CST # 2022206-40 SCANTOURS INC. USA Toll free US & Canada: 1-800-223-7226 Local Phone: 310-636-4656 Fax: 310-390-0493 Comments? Suggestions? E-mail us at info@scantours.com 2004 Scantours Inc. All rights reserved. HOME USEFUL LINKS Webmaster