Asia Travel

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

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Switzerland Travel

Switzerland, Switzerland Travel Advice, Ski Switzerland, Skiing in Switzerland, Swiss Ski Resorts, Swiss, Switzerland Information,Jungfrau, Verbier, Saas Fee and more Swiss Skiing, Ski Europe, Poll Thai Resorts, Poll France Resorts, free travel newsletter Weather Forecast Search Activelifestyle Select from list Partner hotels Brochures on-line Alpine routes Alpine ski maps EU golf maps TH golf maps UK Ski tours Golf video Ski video FREE Newsletter Snow Sports Gear SkiGear SkiJackets SnowboardBoots Information for Travel in Switzerland Zermatt.com Saas Fee Château d'Oex Les Diablerets Leysin Villars Engelberg Luzern Verbier Switzerland.com Andermatt Crans-Montana Veysonnaz Adelboden Gstaad - Saanenland Davos St. Moritz Jungfrau Region.com Grindelwald Interlaken Lauterbrunnen Mürren Wengen Ski Switzerland, Europe's spotless land of lakes and mountains. If skiing in Europe is your dream or if you do it frequently, skiing in Switzerland is a wise destination choice. World class ski resorts are all over Switzerland. World class ski lifts and mountain transportation will safely and comfortably get you into ski country, and some of the best hotels and restaurants in Europe will see to your comfort in Switzerland. Wining and dining in Switzerland are excellent activities and the Swiss kitchen, although underrated is certainly one of the best. Select from the resorts featured here-we will be adding more soon. About Activelifestyle | Contact European Reservations Dolonne, Courmayeur , family run hotel, bed/ buffet breakfast, great restaurant, 47 Euro,p/n,up Entreves, Courmayeur charming hotel, family friendly, 4 nights double half board from 260 p/n Get featured here. Pay 10% commission or .50cents per click through. Classified Ads Property Paradise? Invest for income or to live in Thailand. Paradise is yours. thailandpropertytimes.com Got something to say? Say it to a global audience. 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ski vacation packages Travel

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Japan Travel Guide @

Japan Travel Guide @ TravelNotes.org Car Hire Cruises Flights Hotels Tours Vacations About Travel Notes™ Destinations Budget Travel Feedback Search Travel Forums Travel Writers Africa Asia Caribbean Europe Middle East North America South America Oceania Japan Japan Travel Guide @ TravelNotes.org Bilingual Map of Japan , Brief Guide to Japan , Getting Around Japan , Hiroshima , Japan Accommodation , Japan Tourism , Japan Tours , Kumamoto and Mt. Aso , Living in Japan , Social Rules in Japan , Tokyo , Travel to Japan , What You're Eating in Japan . Round The World Flights - Free TravelNotes e-mail Flag of Japan Japan is not one of the first countries a budget traveller would choose. Local Currency Convert your currency into Japanese Yen. Buy a Map of Japan National Anthem of Japan. Food Travel Fiction Health Kids Bios Humor Mags Software Gifts Tech Business Other Your Ad Here Travel Notes Mailing List News Headlines World News Directory of newspapers and news sources from around the world. Hotel City Search : Travel to Japan Japan is a little off the flight path to Sydney or Melbourne , and somewhat expensive. Reading signs can be a problem, and the culture change might be a shock. Culture Shock! Japan : More than any other country in this series, the guide to Japanese customs and culture can be a real face saver. Brief Guide to Japan Not all Japanese carry cameras at home, but most eat raw fish while sitting on the floor with their legs crossed. It is with more luck than judgement that you steer yourself out of a Tokyo subway station to the exit you require. A name of a hotel -- in a totally alien city, where there are too many roads to signpost, and even the taxi-drivers have to go on a paper chase navigating by known landmarks -- is all you have to go on. If you booked a city hotel at the airport reservations, this could well be you. The first night in your tv and video, towel and toothbrushed, slippers by the bed, hotel room for the typical businessman, is a soothing stay; something of a jet-lag convalescence. The second can also be very nice, but the third seems like a blatant misuse of funds. How can you justify a week's food-bill on eight hours between clean sheets? Japan -- Expensive? Japan doesn't have to be as expensive as you think. Try a temple lodging stay - smart, relaxing Japanese style rooms with 2 delicious meals at reasonable prices. Tabehodai restaurants are great places to eat and drink - all you can eat for about 2000 yen. For travel around the Fuji / Hakone area, make use of the Hakone free pass . And of course, a budget, luxurious and romantic accommodation alternative is a love hotel -- from 5000 yen for the room. Sent in by : Inside Japan Tours . Getting Around Japan The sleek, streamlined, white and blue bullet-train draws up casually, like a waiter in a white tuxedo ready to take an order. The Hikari Super Express -- Shinkansen in Japanese -- is the cream of train travel. On the station platform, neatly marked yellow arrows and numbers indicate where the corresponding carriages stop. Everyone waits in orderly fashion. Even the gaijin (foreigner) can get this one right. Hiroshima No one should visit Japan without taking a moment to quietly contemplate, in Hiroshima. The City of Hiroshima : The city of Hiroshima faces the tranquil Seto Inland Sea that prides itself on its beautiful myriad of islands. The city is rich in nature with its surrounding picturesque mountains that are ever changing with the four seasons and its six rivers that flow through it. Kumamoto and Mt. Aso If you're ever in the area, be sure to visit the Smiling Samurais and the Smouldering Volcano. Tokyo Tokyo, Japan : This is one of the best personal pages that we've come across, and is a highly recommended multimedia tour of the Japanese capital. Great work from Roger and Marilyn and a must see for budding homepage builders. Social Rules in Japan At bath-time in Japan , wash and rinse all the soap off before getting in the bath; so hot that you want to add some cold water to it. Japanese don't wear outside shoes in the house, slippers on tatami mats, or house slippers to the toilet (toilet slippers are for that). And don't forget to change back afterwards! So much of Japanese life is full of rules, ceremony and rituals -- keeping grace and saving face. After a hard day, the Japanese salaryman on the train lets his guard down and starts to unwind. Ties are casually loosened, while the lesser composed hang up their jackets and remove their shoes. Cans of beer are opened and consumed enthusiastically, because the conscience chocolates are already in their coloured wrapping, beside the leather brief-cases, on the racks above their heads. The small Japanese girls, in dark-blue uniforms, find it almost impossible to wheel their vending trolleys through the human mass, yet they struggle on gamely with boxes and plastic bags, smiling and bowing, beautifully masking any signs of stress or strain. Before leaving the carriage, they turn to face the passengers, give a high pitched cry of gratitude, and bow once more. Japan Tourism Japan's Heartland : A wide variety of historical, cultural and natural sites are on offer in the Tokai Region -- or Japan's Heartland. Japan National Tourist Office : The starting point for a trip to Japan. You can choose a region to explore, and there are even tips and hints for budget travellers. Traditional Japan : From the tea ceremony and geishas, to Japanese gardens and the public baths, every thing you need to know to appreciate the culture and customs of the Japanese. What You're Eating in Japan A colourful display of plastic, in a restaurant window, passes for the menu. You can not be sure what you are about to eat, but at least it gives you a rough idea of what to expect. Something like large liquorice allsorts turns out to be rice wrapped in seaweed. Then of course there's the pink sections of raw fish and deep-fried vegetables, all waiting to be tickled by chopsticks. Sushi Worldwide : It would be a good idea to telephone these restaurants first as they might no longer be open. If they are, you can always send your reviews of them into John Maraist using the forms linked to each restaurant listing. Tokyo Food Page : A complete guide to Japanese cuisine and eating in Tokyo, with recipes, articles on Japanese cooking, restaurant listings, culinary travel tips and more. Japan Accommodation Hotels in Japan Living in Japan Jobs in Japan : Japan job listings and free resume posting available. Also includes a personal ads section. Living in Japan : Expatriate, travel, cultural and employment resources for Japan -- from EscapeArtist. Working in Japan : From the hopeless bureaucracy of the Japanese Department of Immigration to the shocking amounts of key money required for an apartment, be prepared to test your patience far beyond its usual boundaries. This article, by Robert Landridge, has all manner of advice to help you on your way. Working Visas : There a number of visas depending on the work you intend to do. Find out which working visa applies to you. Japan Tours Creative Tours : Japan comprises a chain over 1000 fascinating islands. From snow-covered mountains to beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant cities to tranquil fishing villages. Whatever images Japan conjures up in your mind, you won't be disappointed. Elite International : Get a glimpse into the wonders of Japan -- a lovely land of endless mountain chains filled with awe-inspiring temples, shrines, rice paddies, and heavenly hot springs. Custom designed tours available. Inside Japan Tours : From the bright lights of Tokyo, the taste sensations of Osaka and the history of Kyoto, to the barren slopes of Mt. Fuji and the great outdoors of the Japan Alps, Japan has something for everybody. Flexible 8 and 13 night tours and customised packages. Sunrise Tours : Japan package tours include arrival and departure transfer services to/from the airport. Alternatively, you can select the components which best suit your needs and arrange your own tour package. Operated by JTB. Asia Travel Forum : From Afghanistan to Vietnam, Islam to Buddhism, you're sure to find a place for your soul in Asia. Join us in the travel forums if you have a question about Asia or would like to share your experiences about travelling or living in Asia. The Internet TravelNotes.org Japan Travel Guide Flight Tickets : Save money on Round The World flight tickets. Travel News : Get the inside scoop with the latest travel features and tips. Past Articles . Airlines & Airports : This travel article points you to airlines and the three letter airport codes with links to their websites. Cyber Cafes : The Internet Caf Guide. Weather Outlook Car Hire Cruises Flights Hostels Tours Vacations Destinations Budget Travel Feedback Meta-Travel Travel Forums Travel Writers Africa Asia Caribbean Europe Middle East North America South America Oceania Travel Directory : Asia : Japan Travel Guide -- Submit to Travel Notes | Advertise on TravelNotes.org | Favourite Destinations | Magun'sCompass | Travel Articles | Writers | | Airlines | Airports | Car Hire | Cruises | Flights | Hotels | Online Reservations | Vacation Rentals | | Casinos | Olympics | World Cup | General Disclaimer | Meta-Travel | Search Resources | | TravelNotes is a Trademark of TravelNotes.org | Travel Notes Blog | Add URL | Add to Favorites The URL for this page is: http://www.travelnotes.org/Asia/japan.htm

Europe Travel & Tourism

Internet Public Library: Europe Travel & Tourism The Internet Public Library This collection All of the IPL Advanced -- Subject Collections Arts & Humanities Archives & Records Management Culture Fine Arts History Language Libraries Literature Museum Studies Philosophy Religion Arts & Humanities News Fine Arts & Humanities Libraries History of Arts & Humanities Business Accounting Agriculture Banking Business Administration Business Directories Business & Economics News Commerce & Trade Consumer Issues & Services E-Commerce Economics Employment Entrepreneurship Finance History of Business & Economics Industry Insurance International Business Labor & Workplace Marketing & Advertising Non-Profit Organizations Real Estate Statistics Tax Computers Computer Hardware Computer Science Computer Software Cyberculture Internet Platforms Programming System Administration Computers & Internet News History of Computers & Internet Education Adult Education Alternative Education Early Childhood and Pre-school Education News Higher Education K-12 Education Special Education Teachers & Administrators Vocational Education Entertainment Arts & Crafts Books Entertainment & Leisure News Fashion Food Games History of Entertainment & Leisure Hobbies Home & Garden Movies Music Outdoor Recreation Paranormal Phenomena Pets Radio Sports Television Theater Travel & Tourism Health Alcohol, Drugs & Tobacco Alternative Medicine Anatomy & Physiology Consumer Information Disabilities Diseases, Disorders & Syndromes Donors & Transplants Exercise & Fitness First Aid General Medicine Geriatrics Health & Medical Sciences News Health Care Management & Policy History of Medicine Injuries Medical Technology Men's Health Mental Health Medications & Pharmaceuticals Nursing Nutrition & Diet Occupational Health & Safety Oral Health & Dentistry Pain Treatment & Management Pediatrics Preventive Medicine Professional Resources Sexuality Specializations Surgery Veterinary Medicine Women's Health Law & Government Law Law Enforcement Government Political Science History of Law, Government & Political Science Regional Africa Asia Australia Caribbean Europe Middle East North America South America South Pacific Science & Tech Agriculture & Aquaculture Astronomy Chemistry Communications Controversial Earth Sciences Electronics Energy Engineering Environmental Sciences & Ecology History of Science & Technology Horology (Time) Life Sciences Mathematics Paleontology Physics Science & Technology News Science & Technology Libraries Transportation Social Science Anthropology Archaeology Customs, Etiquette, Folklore Education Ethnicity, Culture & Race Gender & Sexuality Geography History History of Social Sciences People by Age Group Political Science Psychology Social Issues & Social Welfare Social Sciences News Sociology Ready Reference Almanacs Calendars Dictionaries English Non-English Translation More… Style & Writing Guides Quotations Telephone & Address Genealogy Biographies Encyclopedias Geography Reading Room Books Magazines Newspapers KidSpace TeenSpace Special Collections Blogs Literary Criticism Science Fair More… Associations on the Net Blogs Exhibits Literary Criticism Native American Authors POTUS Science Fair Searching Tools FARQs Pathfinders Search this Site Web Searching Accessibility Info About the IPL Teach with the IPL Ask a Question Contact Us Search YOU ARE HERE: Home » Subject Collections » Entertainment & Leisure » Travel & Tourism » Regional & Country Information » Europe » Europe Travel & Tourism SEE ALSO Magazines • Associations on the Net Sub-headings: Travel and Tourism Resources in this category: You can also view Magazines , Associations on the Net under this heading. -- All About Spain - Travel and Tourism :: http://www.red2000.com/spain/index.html Online virtual guidebook. Bratislava Guide :: http://www.bratislavaguide.com/ A guide to Bratislava, Slovakia, designed for visitors to the city. The authors are residents of the city and post information on arts and culture, news, dining, shopping, and other activities for tourists. Bruges Info :: http://www.brugesinfo.com/ Bruges, Belgium travel information guide, your travel resource to the Venice of the North. Explore over 500 photos of Bruges, weather and maps, Bruges hotel, and bed and breakfasts for accomodations Central Europe Online :: http://www.einnews.com/centraleurope "Produced daily, Central Europe Online contains a comprehensive mix of Daily News from the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, and Slovenia with country home pages, special features, Travel and Cultural Information, and useful links to other sites." Chris De Witt's Berlin Wall Web Page :: http://www.appropriatesoftware.com/berlinwall/welcome.html Chris De Witt's Berlin Wall Web Pages are a great resource to students of history who want to learn more about Berlin's divided past. This web site guides visitors on a virtual tour of Berlin's past and present with loads of photos and essays about the city. The site provides its visitors a more intimate look into a city with a significant role in world history. The Cyber Cafes of Europe :: http://kiosek.com/eurocybercafes/ Complete, browsable directory of cyber cafés in Europe, browsable by country, with links to café homepages where available. Europe for Visitors :: http://europeforvisitors.com/ "More than 2,500 pages of European travel articles, photos, and links from Durant Imboden, author of Buying Travel Services on the Internet ." Germany Tourism :: http://www.germany-tourism.de/ This site about Germany promotes tourism throughout the country, providing information about destinations, upcoming events, travel tips, and an information center. Site visitors can also use a route planner, view 600 panoramic pictures of the country, and view several short videos. The German National Tourist Board oversees the site. Go To Georgia :: http://www.parliament.ge/gotogeorgia.htm Produced by Georgia's Parliament, this website provides information about the culture, economics, governance, tourism, sports, human rights protection, civic society, and other topics related to the country of Georgia. Guia Madrid Rural :: http://www.guiamadridrural.com/ Travel information for the Madrid area. Regional maps and guides to campsites, hotels, hostels, and rural homes. Includes information on outdoor activities and transportation in the area. In Spanish with limited English. Lonely Planet's Guide to Travel in Russia :: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/europe/russia/ On-line publication of a published book by the originating company. Offers information about how to travel in as well as the history of Russia. Paris Net :: http://www.parisnet.net/ Guide to Paris including travel tips, shopping, fashion, business and personal contacts, Paris gastronomie, etc. Rail Europe :: http://www.raileurope.com/us/index.htm Information about train passes, flights, and car rental for travel in Europe, including trains in Britain and Russia. This is a commercial site and therefore you can order tickets here, including group travel arrangements but it also has alot of useful free information. The Budget Traveller's Guide to Sleeping In Airports :: http://www.sleepinginairports.net/airports.htm This useful website has compiled commentary from thousands of travellers on the experience of sleeping in particular airports. The site rates the best airports in which to sleep in terms of cleanliness, safety, comfort, etc. Search the site according to world region or by country. Over 600 airports around the world are included. The Spirit of Romania :: http://www.spirit.ro/ This site provides travel information for Romania with listings of popular sites, photo galleries, an interactive map of the country and a fact sheet about currency, health and other important travel facts. (Site may take a while to load, especially on a dial-up connection.) La Torre de Pisa :: http://torre.duomo.pisa.it/index_eng.html "The Tower of Pisa is the bell tower of the Cathedral. Its construction began in the august of 1173 and continued (with two long interruptions) for about two hundred years, in full fidelity to the original project, whose architect is still uncertain." This site provides a history of the tower, short film and photo archives that allows you to "navigate between the orders (as the various floors are termed) of the Tower of Pisa.""One of the great landmarks and architectural icons of the Western world now has an official Internet home. View thousands of images on afloor-by-floor photographic tour, enjoy a 360-degree view from the belfry via Quicktime VR, or read about the history of the tower -- which began in 1173 and was under construction for about two hundred years, during which time it began to incline. Text in English and Italian describes contemporary efforts to safeguard and preserve this remarkable monument." Transport for London :: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/ "Transport for London provides detailed advice on using the various transport services in London, including Underground, Bus and River services. You will find information on our wide range of tickets, tube (subway) and bus maps to assist you in planning your journey along with useful tips for visitors to London." UK Orbit Shopping Directory :: http://www.ukorbit.com/ Tells you which shops accept your credit, debit, charge or store cards. Which shops offer free delivery, price matching, discounts or credit. Ultimate Italy :: http://ultimateitaly.com/ Ultimate Italy is a resource to discover Italy focusing on everything about the "best of Italy"; the cities, Italian piazzas, the latest picks of restaurants, pizzerias, bars and caffes, italian lifestyle, the nature from Italian national parks, Alps to the breathtaking Islands. You can find not only Italy travel & tourism information but an insight into the famous people of Italy, Italian fashion,the culture, history and arts. Virtual Finland :: http://virtual.finland.fi/ "Should you have any questions about Finland - any at all - the answer probably lies here, where you can get all sorts of information in several languages." VisitEurope.com :: http://www.visiteurope.com/ Comprehensive travel site for people planning to visit Europe. Each country has its own profile, highlighting popular places to visit, hotel and transportation information, trip planning, and news. The site also features tips for first time visitors, a trip planning guide, a calendar of events, and information for travelers with special interests. © 1995-2005 The Regents of the University of Michigan. All rights reserved.