ski vacation reservations around

Whistler Ski Resort Lodging | Discounts| Whistler Ski Resort Checklist Whistler Ski Resort Lodging | Whistler Ski Resort Checkist & Savings Whistler Ski Resort-Priceless personal experiences you can afford . Use our Whistler lodging by owners directory & Whistler ski resort consumer-direct vacation planning tips to create precious lifetime Whistler memories with your friends & family. Search Whistler Lodging Options | View Whistler Ski Resort Vacation Checklist! Free! Book direct with Whistler owners on our wholesale, Whistler lodging & ski resort vacation planning site to avoid middle agent fees & for extraordinary personal service & hospitality-then use the savings to do something really special for yourself, friends & family to make your Whistler ski resort vacation unforgettable! Search Whistler Lodging Options | View Whistler Ski Resort Vacation Checklist! Fast! Whistler Ski Resort Lift Ticket, Rental, Snow School & Lodging Savings -Saving a ton of time & money are only the secondary benefits to using our Whistler lodging & Whistler Blackcomb ski resort site-having a great time with the money you saved is the first! Use our step-by-step checklist & handy links to quickly plan a vacation of a lifetime! Search Whistler Lodging | View Whistler Ski Resort Vacation Checklist! Easy & Fun! Whistler Lodging & Whistler Ski Resort Lift Ticket, Snow School & Rental Specials-Book by Oct. 31, 2004! Plan your Whistler ski vacation reservations around Whistler Blackcomb Discount Discovery Weeks for the best ski vacation resort deals. Act fast-you must book all of your Whistler lodging & Whistler ski resort tickets, rentals and snow school on this site before October 31, 2004. Get Whistler Ski Resort Discount Discovery Week Details Save Money!! Whistler Ski Resort & Lodging Easy Vacation Planning | Discounts Plannng your own Whistler resort ski vacation & Whistler lodging is fun, easy and fast! If you have a computer with an internet connection, creating your own personal Whistler ski vacation is as total snap! Here is a suggested road map and some helpful Whistler information tips & web site links: Step#1-Search & Book Whistler Ski Resort Lodging Book top-located Whistler Blackcomb mountain lodging direct with Whistler ski resort owners & save on your Whistler Blackcomb accommodation by avoiding middle agent fees. Quick search 420+ Whistler Canada lodging options & view the exact rental home you will stay in before you book online, including detailed photos, descriptions, Whistler maps, owner bios & more. Enjoy the personal hospitality & benefits of a Canadian ski resort home and a locally knowledgable, dedicated Whistler ski resort customer service representative with no other guests than you during your dates- the owner! Search Whistler Ski Resort Lodging Options | Send a Fast Whistler Lodging Inquiry Step #2 Book Flights to Whistler Ski Resort- Advice & Quick Tips Its worth it to shop around. Most sites allow you to select your seats and to check-in online, before you go to the airport! Wear good clean socks & get a pedicure-you have to take off your shoes in airport security! Here is a quick tip list to help you plan your Whistler vacation: Web Sites -check out Expedia , Travelocity , Orbitz , Priceline or CheapTickets . These sites have great prices & help you quickly compare fares! Book Direct with Airlines -lately, we have found that they have the best deals. Just go to to their web sites & do some searches. In addition to your favorite airlines, be sure to also visit Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, West Jet and Tango. They have great fares! Use your Airmiles! -Don't forget to use your points, if you can :) Travel Agents -Check-in with your local travel agent for fares. Book your lodging and flights on the same day and book early. Availability on our site changes by the minute! Search Whistler Ski Resort Lodging Options | Send a Fast Whistler Lodging Inquiry Step #3-Book Whistler Ski Resort Discount Ground Transportation Get to Whistler ski resort by car, bus, van shuttle, or our favourite way- by limo! That's right-hiring a limo or van is really affordable & totally worth it. Subscribe to our newsletter & get 10-20% consumer-direct discounts with our selected ground transportation providers. Instead of giving us a commission for our referral, they give you a discount, providing that you give them the customer code provided in the newsletter, when you book directly with them! Search Whistler Ski Resort Lodging Options | Subscribe to Whistler BC Newsletter Step #4-Book Whistler Blackcomb Resort Ski School Book Whistler Blackcomb Snow School early, since space is limited. Plan around Whistler Resort Discount Discovery Weeks for extra special Whistler mountain snow school deals. Act fast-you have to book Whistler lodging & snow school on this site by October 31, 2004! Search Whistler Ski Resort Lodging Options | View Snow School Programs Step #5-Book Whistler Ski Resort Childcare Book it early! There are 2 broad options: Whistler Blackcomb Kids -Whistler Blackcomb has great programs for kids 3 months & up! Nannies -The Nanny Network (604-938-2823) and Babysitting Whistler ( 60 4-902-baby) have certified & screened nannies and is an ideal option for families with many kids. Search Whistler Lodging | View Whistler Blackcomb Kids Programs Step #6-Book Whistler Ski Resort Discount Lift Tickets, Gear& Clothing Rentals Buy discount Whistler Blackcomb ski lift tickets & gear rentals on our Whistler ski resort lodging & ski vacation planning to site to save up to 30%! Research prices & pre-book online within 72 hours of your arrival in Whistler resort to avoid big ticket window line-ups and prices. Pick up your tickets as early as the day before your first skiing/riding day at one of 3 conveniently located Whistler Blackcomb mountain base customer service desks. All tickets and rentals must be booked with Whistler lodging on this site. Book Whistler lodging first, then buy your Whistler lift tickets & rentals. Over 10,000 lift tickets successfully sold and fulfilled from this site! Search Whistler Lodging Options | View Discount Whistler Lift Ticket Pricing or Buy Tickets.. Step #7-Book Whistler Ski Resort Activities Book your favorite activities in advance! Here are our recommended favourites: Snowmobiling, SnowCat, Fishing & Snowshoeing Tours - with Cougar Mountain Adventures Evening Whistler Blackcomb Snowmobile or Snowcat & Fondue Dinner Tour -with Canadian Snowmobile Blackcomb Sleighrides -Enjoy a great evening outing on Blackcomb with friends & family! Swimming, Indoor Skating, Working Out, Raquet Ball- Check out Meadow Park Recreation Centre-just 5 minutes north of Whistler Village on Hwy 99. They have a great kids pool and fitness facilities! 604-935-PLAY Whistler Welcome Nights- head to the Village gondola every Sunday night at 6:30 pm for incredible outdoor fun! Ziptrek Tours between Whistler & Blackcomb Mountains Ziptrek EcoTours Backcountry Touring & Avalanche Awareness -We highly recommend that you check out Whistler Guides to add a new dimension to your Whistler ski resort winter experience! Search Whistler Lodging | View Whistler Ski Resort Activities Info | Subscribe to Newsletter for Activities Discounts Step #9-Buy Whistler Ski Vacation & Lodging Travel Insurance We highly recommend travel insurance, because life happens, and it can happen to you at any time!Make sure that you are covered for lost luggage, as well as flights, lodging and medical. Here are some recommendations: Check your credit card accessory services options -sometimes travel insurance is included, or can be purchased at rock bottom rates! Check your life insurance policies -you may already be covered for medical and may not have to buy those components. Check www.insuremytrip.com to compare options and to buy it online. Leaving it to the last minute -you can buy it at most airports! Whatever you do, don't leave home without it! Search Whistler Lodging Options | Send a Fast Whistler Lodging Inquiry Step #10-Whistler Ski Resort Weather & Clothing Tips Whistler ski resort is located in the Coastal Mountain Range, which means that weather changes are fast and furious! Here are some tips: Dress in Layers -bring lightweather & cold weather gear Bring Gortex -you need waterproof gear. It may be raining in the Village, but snowing like mad just above the Village. Don't get wet before you get on the slopes! Treat your Gortex prior to Arrival -Follow the manufacturer's instructions for re-conditioning your Gortex gear!. We also recommend Nik Wax for Gortex gear and especially for gloves. Check out the Weather Links Below -Here are 3 must see weather sites: Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort Snow Forecast Whistler Ski Resort Weather Forecast Farmer's Almanac Weather Predictions Calling for the 2005 snow to begin flying in late September 2004-Yipee! Step #11- Whistler Resort Road Reports & Tips It is a 2.5 hour drive from Vancouver. Squamish is about 1 hour from Vancouver.Here are our best tips: Gas Up -in Vancouver Bathroom Breaks -before you leave the airport or in Squamish (1 hr from Vancouver). Food & Coffee for the Road - There is a Starbucks, and other restaurants in Squamish. White Spot is a great fast family restaurant (a BC classic :)) Arrive & Drive in Daylight Hours -the highway is complex and weather changes quickly.If you can't drive in daylight, get a limo 1-way and rent a car on the return trip from Avis in Whistler. Expert Drivers Only Please -this is not a drive for the faint of heart. Don't Speed -you will get busted or be killed-seriously. Don't Tailgate -be safe & polite. Everyone will get there. Don't Tailgate Logging Trucks -take this advice seriously, or kiss an old growth log coming through your windshield. Get Road and Snow Reports every 15 Mins -Listen to 102.1 or 107.1 FM. Check for Construction Delays & Conditions before you Leave Search Whistler Ski Resort Lodging Options | Send a Fast Whistler Lodging Inquiry Step #12-Whistler Ski Resort Groceries There is no need to buy groceries anywhere else but Whistler. There are several LARGE grocery stores: IGA -in Whistler Village North Grocery Store -in Whistler Village Pre-Order Online & Save- Order from Whistler Grocery to pre-order online and have your food delivered to your door. Subscribe to the newsletter program and give them the customer code, to receive free delivery. Search Whistler Lodging Options | Subscribe to Whistler BC Newsletter Stp #13-Whistler Ski Vacation GST Refunds If you are a non-Canadian resident, you can get a GST refund for all things purchased that you did not consume in Canada! Exceptions are Whistler lodging accommodations and gear rentals-which are considered services, and are therefore refund-eligible. Don't bother paying someone to do your Whistler resort lodging & ski vacation refund. Keep your money! It is easy to get on your own, as long as you keep your receipts and fill out the form correctly. Read the instructions before you go to Whistler Ski Resort so that you are familiar with the rules, and getting your refund will be a total snap! Download GST Refund Form, Information & Instructions Whistler Lodging & Whistler Ski Resort Consumer-Direct Vacation Guide-Help Support our Continued Efforts to Bring you the Best Whistler Ski Lodging & Whistler Resort Value! Our Whistler Lodging & Ski Resort Mission We are a consumer-direct Whistler lodging and Whistler ski resort vacation planning directory and have been in business for over 7 years. Our mission is to help people like to you get the best Whistler lodging and Whistler Blackcomb resort services at great prices and in a time-efficient safe and consistent way, by stripping away all uncessary and costly intermediaries that you end up paying for. As result of our Whistler lodging service and Whistler Blackcomb resort consumer-direct vacation planning site, Whistler owners and resort services providers can give you the absolute best, consumer-direct price. We also work fanatically to keep our own costs down, without compromising our great customer support, so that our fees are not passed on to you by owners. Our Whistler Ski Resort Fees-Keeping them Small to Non-Existent, so that you Pay Less! Whistler lodging owners pay us a flat annual subscription fee. We also make a extremely teeny tiny amount of money on Whistler lodging rent transactions, so that we can keep developing the search, property display & reservation software & payment system to make it safer, faster, more consistent & transparent, & more private for you & our other site users. When you pay online, you are ensuring that when you come back to Whistler ski resort, that this site will be even better! Whistler Blackcomb ski resort services providers are profiled for free in exchange for having what we feel is a great service to site users, and by passing on our our referral commission as discounts to you. Finally, we do not do any pesky paid banner advertising because it would impact with your enjoyment of the site and remove all objectivity from our company-thus compromising the quality of the service to you. How You Can Help us Improve & Grow our Whistler Ski Resort & Lodging Service Quality & Value If you liked & value this Whistler accommodations & Whistler Blackcomb resort service and similarly embrace our values and mission in making it easy, unintrusive and affordable for you to have a great & highly personalized vacation experience and would like to support us in continuing to help you get great vacation value in this and other destinations, we would deeply appreciate your support in helping us continually improve our service quality and customer support levels! Here are 4 vital ways that you can help: 1-Please link to our site from yours. Please let us know that you linked to us & tell us about you, your vacation and your web site! We will link back to you and profile you on our site! It really helps us get to know our customers and plays a big role in keeping our costs down to owners, who in turn pass on the benefit to you. Please use the exact link anchor text and URLs below: AlluraDirect.com Vacation Rentals by Owner (http://www.alluradirect.com) Whistler Blackcomb BC Canada- Ski Resort Accommodations by Owner (http://www.alluradirect.com/whistler) 2-Book your Whistler lodging & Whistler ski resort lift tickets, rentals and snow school directly on this site with your credit card. Your business transaction volume and customer feedback directly through this site are instrumental in strengthening our ability to work directly with accommodations homeowners and ski resort guest services providers like Whistler Blackcomb, to bring you tremendous consumer-direct Whistler value, customer support & resort deals. For example, because of your immense business support, we were able to pioneer, create & implement with Whistler Blackcomb, our massively successful Whistler Blackcomb Discount Discovery Weeks program, that now helps thousands of people like you explore more of what Whistler has to offer. 3-Tell your friends & family about this site -word of mouth referrals are deeply appreciated. 4- Send us Feedback! You shape this company, policies and resources with your feedback! We respond personally to all suggestions, comments, rants and feedback! Search Whistler Blackcomb Lodging | Send Fast Whistler Rentals Inquiry | Send Feedback to AlluraDirect.com Staff Thanks for booking on our Whistler British Columbia Lodging & Whistler Ski Resort consumer-direct directory! with gratitude from the AlluraDirect.com staff & owner-hosts! Vacation Rentals By Owner Vacation, Reservation & Check-In Support 9 am-11pm PST 7 Days per Week Local : 604-707-6700 Toll Free North America : 1 - 866 - 4 - Allura Toll Free UK : 0-800-028-9346 Toll Free Australia : 877-226-6358 Toll Free Hong Kong : 800-903-329 Email Us Whistler Homepage Organize Vacation Find Accommodations 4 Fast & EASY Searching Methods FastFind My Owner/Property Find a specific person or listing Book with Confidence Find out why people like you & Frommers Travel love this Whistler Blackcomb site! View All Discount Benefits Discount Lift Tickets Discount Equipment Rentals Discount Ski/Board Lessons Getting Here Suggested Activities Vacation Planning Resources Free! Get Secret Whistler Discount Codes, Local Tips & Savings Alerts! Keep In Touch All raves, rants & suggestions will be repsonded to! Send Positive Feedback Make Site/Service Suggestion Make a Complaint Update Your Guest Profile Owners Get Free Rental Business Tips! Get Property Listing Information List Property Now Owner Login Free Business Listings List Owner Service Business List Guest Services Business About Us Learn about AlluraDirect.com! Whistler Blackcomb Accommodation Home Page Whistler | Sun Peaks | Big White | BC Ski Resort Canada Vacation Rentals by Owner Big White Ski Resort Lodging Sun Peaks Lodging Whistler BC Discounts , Accommodation & Skiing Holiday Tips Newsletter Whistler Map | Discount Accomodations Search Tools Whistler Ski Resort Lodging & Vacation Check List Whistler Canada Accommodation Savings Tips Whistler Resort Tips Whistler BC Specials Whistler Accomodation Deals-All Year Whistler British Columbia Canada Discount Merchant Partners Whistler Condos Rental Tips Whistler Discount Lift Tickets & Ski School Discounts Whistler Blackcomb Discount Equipment Rentals

Asia Travel || Laos

TRAVEL LEISURE TOURS HOTELS RESORTS LAOS Map of Laos Laos Visa Requirement LAOS AT A GLANCE Official Name : State of LAO P.D.R. : Head of State : Head of Government : Official Language : Land Area : Population : Currency : GDP per Capita : Main Exports : Main Imports : Exports : Imports : Lao People's Democratic Republic People's Democratic State President Nouhak PHOUMSAVANH Minister Khamtay SIPHANDONE Lao 236,800 square kilometres 4,581,128 (1995) Kip US$350 (1994-1995) Electricity, timber and wood products, garments and texties, coffee, tin, Petroleum, machinery and raw materials, vehicles, cement, iron, fabrics US$209.40 (1994-1995) US$375.40 (1994-1995) The Lao People's Democratic Republic is located in South East Asia at the centre of the Indochinese Peninsula between latitude 14-23 degrees north and longitude 100108 degrees east. Laos has an eastern border of 1,957 km with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, a western border of 1,730 km with the Kingdom of Thailand, a southern border of 492 km with the Kingdom of Cambodia a northern border of 416 km with the People's Republic of China and a North Western border of 230 km with the Union of Myanmar. Total area of Laos is 236,800 square kilometres, three quarters of which is mountainous and forest-covered 40 % while the country is rich in natural resources, such as mineral deposits, including 1 billion tons of high quality iron are between 60-70%, lead, gold, tin and 8200-8232 calorie/gram coal. Although the Lao P.D.R. has no direct access to the sea, it has the Mekong River which is the main river of the country flowing north to south. In addition, there are many branch rivers which nourish agriculture. Laos people use it as a power source which supplies hydro-electric of over 18,000 MW from 57 dams. The Population of the Lao P.D.R. is estimated at 4,581,128 (1995) and population density remains one of the lowest in the region at 19 persons per square kilometre with a population increase rate of 2.64 %. The Lao population is ethnically diverse with up to 68 different ethnic groups identified inhabiting the country, with various languages, cultures and traditions which are classified into three groups: The Lao Loam, who occupy the lowlands plains and the Mekong River valley, and constitute about 56% of the total population; the Lao Thing, who occupy the mountain slopes, comprising about 34% of the population, and the high mountain Lao, constituting about 9% of the total population, and one per cent foreigners. LAOS VISA REQUIREMENT - Request for Laos Visa Approval should be emailed to asiatrav@asiatravel.com giving the following informations: Family Name and Giving Name and Sex Nationaltiy Passport Number - Date of Issued & Expiry Date of Birth Occupation Date of Arrival ** It takes another 2 working days to obtain Lao visa aproval Ater getting the Laos Visa Approval, travellers have to obtain Lao Visa Stamp at the Lao Embassy in their own country or in Bangkok with the following documents: 2 Visa Application Form (Photocopy accepted) 2 photos Original Passport **It takes another 2 working days to obtain Lao visa stamp FOR TRAVELLERS WHO WISH TO OBTAIN LAO VISA ONLY The Arrangement fees is US$95 HOW TO REACH LAO PDR One can arrive in Vientiane either by air or by land BY AIR - From Bangkok, Hanoi or Phnompenh to Vientiane BY TRAIN - From Bangkok to Nongkai **Train from Bangkok to Nongkai travels at night berth. Upon arrival at Nongkai in the morning, you will have to take taxi or rickshaw to Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge and cross the border. The guide will wait for you after Lao Immigration to transfer you to Vientiane. Asia Travel || Laos Hotels & Resorts

Spain Travel

Tourist Office of Spain - Travel Tips for travel to and within Spain Our Office Useful Addresses How to get there Travel Tips Activities Travel Bulletin Tour Operators' Index Request Information Home Visiting Spain is not only about sun, great cuisine, and a warm welcome, but also its rich monumental heritage and dazzling natural environment. There is a perfect destination for everyone -choose yours. Visit our main Web site: Travel Tips for travel to and within Spain PASSPORT - MONEY - CUSTOMS PASSPORT AND VISA REGULATIONS : No visa for Spain is required for Canadian, US passport holders and nationals of European Unions countries for stays up to 3 months as a tourist. For stays exceeding this period, other nationalities or work permits please contact the Consulate of Spain nearest you. The addresses and telephone numbers of the Spanish Consulates are as follows: Toronto : 200 Front Street, Suite 2401, Toronto, Ont. M5V 3K2. Tel. (416) 977 1661 cgspain.toronto@mail.mae.es Open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Montreal : 1 Westmount Sq. Ste 1456, Montreal, P.Q. H3Z 2P9. Tel. (514) 935 5235 consular@total.net Open to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday. For more information click here . INOCULATIONS : No inoculations are required when entering or leaving Spain. MONEY: As of January 1st, 2002, the new Spanish currency, as in most European Union countries, is the Euro. The currency will have notes and eight coins. The notes will have face value of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 or 500 euros. The Euro is divided into 100 cents and the coins will range in value from 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1, 2 euros. Tourists may bring up to 6,010.12 euros (approximetly $10,000 Canadian dollars) without declaring the amount at customs. The current rate of exchange varies from week to week. For an updated exchange rate, check with newspapers or banks. Travellers cheques are most practical and Canadian currency can be exchanged at banks, airports, main hotels, etc. In order to get the most for your money, we advise you to buy some euros before leaving (for first day expenses) and exchange the rest of your dollars or travellers cheques at the bank once in Spain (although banking hours might be subject to change, presently they are: Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) Major credit cards are honoured in most hotels and restaurants, main stores, rent-a-car companies and others, although this should be checked before each transaction. The convenient Interact System can also be used throughout Spain, providing one of the easiest and cheapest ways of obtaining cash abroad; consult with your bank about your particular card and fees. For Currency converter click here . CUSTOMS: You may bring the following into Spain: personal effects, a personal laptop, one video camera or two still cameras with ten rolls of film each. A portable radio or portable tape recorder per person is admitted free of duty, as well as 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco. One bottle of wine and one of liquor per person. The following sports equipment is also allowed: fishing gear, one bicycle, skis, tennis or squash racquets and golf clubs. PETS: Pets do not need to be held in quarantine prior to entering Spain. A certificate stating that an animal is in good health and has been inoculated against rabies (for dogs and cats) is required. The document must be issued by a veterinarian and certified at the nearest Consulate of Spain. TRANSPORTATION WITHIN SPAIN Railways: Spain has an extensive railroad system with fast and comfortable trains, offering some of the best fares in Europe. The national network is known as RENFE. Internet address: www.renfe.es . One of Europes most luxurious sightseeing trains is the AL ANDALUS EXPRESS with classic cars restored and refurbished in modern "grand luxe" style. There is 5-stars accommodation in the bedroom/salon cars. All excursions and meals are included. The AL ANDALUS EXPRESS have several itineraries, although it usually goes from Madrid south to Andalusia. The TRANSCANTABRICO, another sightseeing train, covers the northern and north-western parts of Spain know as Green Spain, from San Sebastian in the Basque region to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia. The train is air-conditioned and has showers, a bar and live music. All excursions and meals are included. AVE, Spains sleek bullet train, is the rail link between Madrid and Seville, going through Ciudad Real and Cordoba. This ultramodern train, which travels at a speed of up to 185 miles per hour, makes the Madrid-Seville run in 2 hours 30 minutes. TALGO is an ultramodern, fully air-conditioned train operating throughout Spain. New fast and sleek trains called EUROMEDS are going along the Mediterranean Coast, significantly cutting your travelling time from Barcelona to Valencia. Tickets can be purchased through RAIL EUROPE: 1-800-361 RAIL , which sells special rail passes only for Spain. Train Passes, such as EUROPASS and FLEXIPASS can also be purchased through RAIL EUROPE. Buses: Public bus service in Spain is comfortable and efficient. Although there are many lines which cover long distances, buses are specially recommended for short trips and for excursions from major tourist centres. Local tourist offices can provide you with schedule information. Ships: Travellers who wish to visit the Spanish Islands may depart from the mainland using the COMPAIA TRANSMEDITERRANEA. this national carrier has regular scheduled ferries from Barcelona and Valencia to the Balearic Islands and from Cadiz to the Canary Islands. TRANSMEDITERRANEA also offers inter-island service. The same company offers service to North Africa: from Almeria and Malaga to Melilla and from Algeciras to Tangiers and Ceuta. For reservations please call the headquarters in Madrid. Tel. : 011-341-431-0700, fax: 011-34- 431- 0804. Website: http://www.trasmediterranea.es Modern Hydrofoil ships are now linking Mainland Spain to the Balearic Islands, Algeciras to Tangier and between the Canary Islands. Inquire in our Office for more details about ferries. Driving in Spain: In order for Canadians to drive in Spain, they must: Have an International Driving Licence Be 18 years of age or older Be a tourist Traffic Offences: On the spot payment of fines (reduced by 20%) is compulsory for non-residents. Taxis: All major cities in Spain have metered taxi service. Any extra charges must be posted in the vehicle. For further information click here . ACCOMMODATION There are more than 10,000 hotel accommodations in Spain. They are divided into several categories, among them Hotels, Residence-Hotels, Apartment-Hotels, Motels and Pensions. All of them have a plaque at the entrance showing their official category, from one to five stars. Establishment classified, as "Residence-Hotels" does not provide meals. Official forms are available at hotels and any complaint concerning service may be registered. PARADORES DE ESPAA is a state-run network of hotels. Many of them are castles, convents, or palaces restored and furnished with every modern amenity. Most of them are scenically located. Reservations can be made directly to: Central of Reservations in Madrid, Tel: 011 34 91 5166666 and the fax: 011 34 91 516657/8 - Web site: http://www.parador.es For further information please visit Tourism Spain main Web site or contact our Tourist Office in Canada. New representatives in Canada: Adsum Tourism Services 4159 Dundas St. West, Suite 218 Toronto, ON M8X 1Y4 Phone : 416-237-1930 Fax: 416-237-9212 paradores-ca@adsum.ws Apartments and Villas: There are many for rent, especially along the coastal resort areas. It is advisable to stay a few days at a hotel or pension and look around for a suitable place. Prices can vary according to the season, area or location. An Official Guide to Apartment-Hotels can be obtained from the Tourist Office. Call us for a list of addresses. Camping: Spains excellent campsites can be found along the coast, on the islands, as well as in scenic areas. Campings are also classified under a star rating system which can be obtained from the Tourist Office. Rural Tourism: A magnificent alternative to visit the real Spain off the beaten track. Accommodation in traditional country farms is available all over Spain and most of then offer complementary activities such as horseback riding, bicycling, etc. OTHER INFORMATION Taxes: A 7% VAT is to be added to rates for all restaurants and hotel rooms. Service is included. Getting your VAT back: Travellers to Spain are entitled to a reimbursement of the 16% VAT tax they pay on all purchases as long as these add up to no less than 90.16 euros (approximately $150) per store. The vendor must provide the purchaser with a duly filled out invoice, which includes the price of each good, the VAT paid for each item, as well as the identification for both the vendor and purchaser. The goods must be brought out of Spain whitin three months. At the time of departure, the invoice must be submitted to the Spanish Customs Officer in charge of VAT refunds at the international port, gate or airport (there is a specific booth for this purpose just prior to the entrance to the international area). The Customs Officer will stamp the original copy, which should be turned in at a bank in the airport for reimbursement. Tipping: Service is generally included in the bill. Tips are at your own discretion, although a 10% tip is customary. Language: Castilian (Spanish) in the whole territory. Catalan, Basque (Euskera) and Galician in their respective autonomous regions. English is usually spoken in the tourist areas along the Mediterranean coast as well as French, although a booklet with the most common phrases in Spanish is always helpful. Electric Current: 220 volts (50 cycles) are commonly used in Spain, although 110 still exist in some areas. Round prong plugs are used in all outlets. Standard Canadian plugs will not fit into Spanish outlets. Bullfights: The season starts in March and runs until the middle of October. Shopping in Spain: This is not only an exciting venture but also practical as Spain offers today some of the best prices on many articles. Spain has a long tradition in making leather goods (shoes, luggage, bags, coats, dresses gloves, etc.), clothing (original fashion designers or ready-made), embroidery and lace; jewellery (classical or modern designs, as well as artisan gold and silver works); blown glass, pottery, antiques (some of the antique galleries in Madrid, Barcelona or Seville are among the best in Europe); furniture; interior decorating items (the famous Lladro porcelains, iron grille designs, silver and other metals such as candelabra, trays, bowls, etc.); toys; musical instruments (Spanish guitars are know to be the best in the world). Madrid and Barcelona are of course the major cities for shopping. In Madrid, the main commercial areas are: the Goya, Principe de Vergara and Serrano districts for exclusive fashions; Narvaez, Conde de Penalver and the old downtown area of Puerta del Sol, Alcala, Gran Via, Carretas and Arsenal, a place also to find major Department stores. A must is the Sunday flea market of El Rastro, where you can find anything from a hatpin to a masterpiece. In Barcelona, Paseo de Gracia and Diagonal for elegant shopping; the Ramblas and Plaza de Catalunya for almost anything; and the area around the church of Sta. Maria de los Reyes for antique galleries. Other excellent areas for shopping are tourist centres, such as Torremolinos and Marbella in Costa del Sol, Benidorm in Costa Blanca, Playa de Aro in the Costa Brava, Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza in the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands (mainly Tenerife and Gran Canaria) specially, since they are duty-free ports. Shopping Hours: Although big department stores are open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, most shops keep traditional business hours, approximately 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Some stores are open on Sunday. Museums: The standard hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 9:a.m. to 7:00 p.m.. Sundays and holidays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., but check with the Tourist Office in Spain nearest you for hours of specific museums. For further information click here . Books and maps on Spain: The Tourist Office of Spain supplies maps, brochures and information circulars free of charge. Persons wishing further information may obtain additional guides and maps at retail stores or, in Spain, from local tourist offices. Travelling with children: Most hotels make reductions for babies and small children, although there are not official regulations. This matter should be arranged with the hotel management. Baby food and disposable diapers are available at most resorts and are obtainable from supermarkets and pharmacies. Baby-sitting arrangements can usually be made locally. The availability and cost should be checked with the establishment directly or through the booking agent. Health Service: Only members of the European Union enjoy free medical assistance under the Spanish Health Service during their stay. You are advised to take out adequate holiday insurance. This is available at your local bank or from most tour operators and travel agents. Although there are multilingual doctors in the tourist areas, those requiring special treatment or diets are advised to carry a letter from their doctor translated into Spanish, indicating the nature of the condition, treatment and medicines required. Special dietary products are available from health shops and pharmacies. Telephoning Home: Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from Spain is 9000-99-0015 where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1-800-561-8868 or on the Internet: ( www.canada-direct.com ) Radio Canada International: Radio Canada International ( RCI ) broadcasts on short-wave in Spain. For a schedule of times and frequency of broadcasts, check the RCI web site ( www.rcinet.ca ). You may also e-mail RCI at rci@montreal.radio-canada.ca or call ( 514 ) 597 7555 Casinos: Gambling is legal in Spain. There are 22 casinos in operation. Lists are available upon request. Public Holidays: January 1, New Years Day January 6 Good Friday March 19 May 1, Labour Day August 15, Feast of the Assumption October 12, Spains National Day November 1, All Saints December 6, Constitution Day December 25, Christmas day Each of the 17 Autonomous Regions and Municipalities in Spain has extra official public holidays celebrated only within its boundaries. Important Web site address: (in English) General information: www.tourspain.es IBERIA: www.iberia.com/ibusa RENFE: www.renfe.es PARADORES: www.parador.es SPANISH EMBASSY IN CANADA: www.docuweb.ca/SpainInCanada/ Information on Commercial matters: Please contact the Commercial Office of Spain at: 55 Bloor Street West, Toronto, Tel.. (416) 967-0488. e-mail: buzon.oficial@toronto.ofcomes.mcx.es THE CLIMATE IN SPAIN SPRING is an ideal time to visit the central regions of Castile, Andalusia, the Mediterranean Coast and the Balearic Islands. The climate is generally very good, but expect occasional rain. SUMMER is a good season to visit the northern regions, especially the resorts along the Cantabrian Coast, from Hondarribia on the French-Spanish border to La Guardia at the Portuguese-Spanish frontier. FALL is perhaps the best season of the year to visit the entire country. The climate is excellent, with sunny days and blue skies. WINTER is a good season for the Mediterranean regions, particularly the Costa del Sol, Alicante (Costa Blanca) and the Balearic Islands. The high mountain ranges offer excellent conditions for winter sports. The Canary Islands have an even and pleasant climate all year round. For further information click here . Site Content Our Office Useful addresses Travel Bulletin Travel Tips Activities Tour operators index How to get there Information request Home page ACTIVITIES Cultural: Spain has a very intense cultural life; opera, ballet and concerts can be enjoyed in the major cities - Madrid and Barcelona have their opera, ballet and concert season. Spanish theatre is very popular with more than 30 theatres in Madrid playing daily. There are also the famous "Fiestas". Every city, town and village has its own, usually commemorating their patron saint, including bullfighting, folklore dances, outdoors fairs and events. Larger cities often include ballets, plays and flamenco spectacles. For dates and information please contact our Office. For further information click here . Gastronomy and Restaurants: Food in Spain is taken very seriously. Dining is an indispensable ingredient, in the countrys ebullient social lifestyle. Meals are long and leisurely, providing an opportunity to enjoy good company freshly prepared dishes, and fine wines, such as the world-famous Riojas. Lunch is the big meal of the day and is generally served between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. Dinner is traditionally served between 9:00 and 11:00 p.m. Vertical forks (from one to five) rate restaurants on a plaque outside the entrance. Prices must be listed both inside and outside the establishment. Ask for the tourist menu, usually an all- included meal very reasonably priced according to the category of the restaurant. Spanish cuisine is based on the healthy Mediterranean diet. Prized Spanish olive oil, garlic, fresh daily produce and wine are the staples. The striking cultural contrasts between regions in Spain are reflected in the tremendous variety of cooking styles. The central plateau of Castile is known for its delicious roasts: lamb, kid, suckling pig, and game such as partridge. Try the garlic soup, hearty bean stews, and famous Manchego cheeses. Valdepeas and Ribera del Duero make exceptional red wines. Catalans are very inventive cooks, combining game and poultry with seafood, and savoury meats with sweet sauces of dried fruits and nuts. Basque cooking is considered the most sophisticated and innovative in Spain. The city of San Sebastian is exemplary, with many restaurants serving some of the finest food in Europe. Traditional cuisine is at its best in fish and shellfish. The north-western region of Galicia is Spains source of a wide variety of fresh shellfish, and delicacies such as barnacles and spider crab. Try the octopus accompanied by the famous Albario and Ribeiro wines. Andalusia is home to the refreshing gazpacho and garlic-almond soup, delicious olives, and world-famous Sherries. The rice fields of Valencia gave birth to the paella as well as a wide variety of excellent rice dishes. Spains greatest contribution to gastronomy may well be the tapas. These little portions of regional specialities are served in restaurants and bars throughout Spain and are generally accompanied by wine, beer or sangria. 2004 Tourist Office of Spain in Canada 2 Bloor West, Toronto, ON, M4W 3E2 Tel.: (416) 961-3131, Fax.: (416) 961-1992 E-mail: toronto@tourspain.es Developed by DesignByBaxter This web page last updated: Wednesday, May 25, 2005

Japan Travel

Japan Travel Information | Lonely Planet Destination Guide worldguide | shop | thorn tree forum | travel services | travel ticker | theme guides | on the road | postcards | travel links : Explore Japan Japan Hyperbolic, kitty-cute, switched-on, serene. At a Glance Fast Facts WORLDGUIDE Introduction Background Info See Image Gallery Events Transport Money General RELATED Thorn Tree Forum Postcards Travel Links More Places Check out our other destinations: Within Japan Kyoto Nagoya Osaka Sapporo Tokyo View Map Click here Feature Attraction Mt Fuji Japan's highest mountain stands 3776m (12388ft) high. When it's capped with snow, it's a picture-postcard perfect volcanic cone. Fuji-san last blew in ... more Whether you end up taking photos of a reproduction Eiffel Tower, surfing an indoor wave, musing in a Zen temple, shacking up in a love hotel or kipping down in a capsule, you'll do best to come with an open mind and be prepared to be surprised. Somewhere between the elegant formality of Japanese manners and the candid, sometimes boisterous exchanges that take place over a few drinks, between the sanitised shopping malls and the unexpected rural festivals, everyone finds their own vision of Japan. When To Go Spring (March to May), with its clear skies and cherry blossoms, is probably the most celebrated Japanese season, but it's a holiday period for the Japanese and many of the more popular travel destinations tend to be flooded with domestic tourists. Autumn (September to November) is a great time to travel: the temperatures are pleasant, and the autumn colours in the countryside are fantastic. Mid-winter (December to February) can be bitterly cold, while the sticky summer months (June to August) can turn even the briefest excursion out of the air conditioning into a soup bath; on the plus side, major tourist attractions will generally be quieter at these times of the year. It's also worth considering peak holiday seasons when you plan your trip. Moving around and finding accommodation during New Year, Golden Week (late April to early May) and the midsummer O-Bon festival can be a real headache. Factoid Inking the King Japanese tattooing ( irezumi ) is often considered the world's best. The practice was banned under the Emperor Meiji, but revived after Prince George (later King George V) was tattooed, in 1881, by master tattooist Hori Chyo. SPONSORED LINKS Enquire Accomodation Reviews Find Lonely Planet author reviewed places to stay * Required Fields Country * Please select Argentina Australia Austria Belgium Brazil Canada China Cuba Czech Republic Denmark Egypt England Estonia Finland France Germany Hungary Iceland India Ireland Israel & the Palestinian Territories Italy Japan Malaysia Mexico Morocco Netherlands New Zealand Poland Portugal Russia Scotland South Africa South Korea Spain Sweden Taiwan Thailand Turkey USA United Arab Emirates Vietnam City * Please select Travel Services · Flights · Hostels · Hotels · Travel Insurance More Services › Disclaimer: We've tried to make theinformation on this web site as accurate as possible, but it isprovided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injuryor inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information.You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety,customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before youtravel. text & images © lonely planet 2005 about us | privacy | feedback | advertising FAQs worldguide | shop | thorn tree forum | travel services | travel ticker | theme guides | on the road | postcards | travel links

London Vacation Apartment Rentals

Paris Sweet Home - London Apartments for Rent, London Vacation Rentals List of our London Vacation Apartment Rentals - Paris Sweet Home Inquiry Form | List of all flats in London | London apartment search | Terms and Conditions | Home Apartments in Paris | Apartments in London | Villas & houses in Bali London flats : Budget | Capacity | Area | Alphabetical order 1-20 of 50 London apartments First| Previous| Next | Last Cliveden Place Apartment - Belgravia, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) On the doorstep of the ever so seductive Chelsea, this one bedroom flat with a garden has enough space for all your designer bags and lots more.....[ Photos of the flat ] Britannia-2 Road Apartment - Fulham, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) This is a charming one bedroom vacation rental flat in Chelsea, perfect for its outdoor space and much appreciated chill out patio at the rear. A train from Fulham Broadway takes you straight to Covent Garden, Soho and all the major London sights.....[ Photos of the flat ] Coulson Street Apartment - Kensington, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) This pretty pink cottage close to Kings Road in Chelsea is fabulous for shopping, conveniently located for public transport and all the major London sights. With its original wooden panels in the bedroom and the cosy kitchen it provides a short stay rental with unique character.....[ Photos of the flat ] Kensington Court Apartment - Kensington, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) A fabulous one bedroom holiday rental flat in Kensington really close to the High Street, Hyde Park, Kensington Palace. Hyde Park has endless walking paths and formal flower beds, the Serpentine, a large lake in which one can swim or hire a rowing boat, the famous statue of Peter Pan and Rotten Row where all the horse riding schools and Household Cavalry exercise A perfect London holiday experience.....[ Photos of the flat ] Queens Gate Apartment - Kensington, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) An attractive, amazingly quiet and spacious one bedroom flat in Kensington. It is ideally positioned for Victoria & Albert Museum, the Royal Albert Hall and the excellent shops and restaurants on High Street Kensington, as well as the green, open spaces of Hyde Park. Easy access for the motorist to Heathrow and the M25.....[ Photos of the flat ] Rosary Gardens Apartment - Kensington, London Price per night for 3 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) A secret garden, the most comfortable French country furniture and the sought after address close to Gloucester Road. Short or long stay, our clients from all around the world love this rental flat in Kensington.....[ Photos of the flat ] Cheyne Walk Apartment - Chelsea, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) Having wonderful views of the river, this bright vacation apartment with light wooden floors is considered the most fashionable address in Chelsea. It is only a short walk from Kings Road with its fabulous shops and restaurants....[ Photos of the flat ] Shrewsbury Mews Apartment - Notting Hill, London Price per night for 4 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) Experience the charm of this mews rental property in the pretty Notting Hill area and enjoy the latest in antiques and modern design. Gourmands will be delighted with the an amazing variety of restaurants and gastro pubs that bring world cuisine to London....[ Photos of the flat ] Arundel Gardens Apartment - Notting Hill, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) Magnificient location for this elegant one bedroom flat with access to a beautiful communal garden. Notting Hill is one of the most vibrant areas of London with the Portobello Market as it's hart and soul....[ Photos of the flat ] Drayton Gardens Apartment - Chelsea, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) A nice and bright, cheerful and cosy little hide away flat, just a stone's throw from famous and beautiful people seen on the near by King's Road....[ Photos of the flat ] Sandwich Street Apartment - Bloomsbury, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) A rare opportunity to stay in the very heart of London, in the famous and celebrated Bloomsbury. The accommodation is in the most comfortable one bedroom apartment just a short walk away from the British Library and the British Museum....[ Photos of the flat ] Queensborough Terrace Apartment - Notting Hill, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) This charming and pretty one bedroom apartment is just Ideal for enjoying one of the most famous world parks: the Hyde Park. Stay and embrace the enormous green space ! Discover the beauty and tranquillity of the most treasured of all London landmarks and discover the diverse and exciting heritage in its neighbourhood....[ Photos of the flat ] Beauchamp Place Apartment - Knightsbridge, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) It is hard to imagine a better location for a short stay in London. The attractive Beauchamp Place has to be on everybodys itinerary .The restaurants are cosy and world class and the designer shops are just magical. And this one bedroom apartment on the top floor of the converted period building is spacious, bright and soothing and has everything a modern traveller is looking for....[ Photos of the flat ] Holland Park Apartment - Holland Park, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) Exceptionally quiet and convenient one bedroom rental just next door to a very charming London park. It is pure joy mixing with locals and browsing through traditional shops, cafes and restaurants in this elegant area leading to Notting Hill and Portobello Road....[ Photos of the flat ] Lambton Place Apartment - Notting Hill, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) A charming one bedroom holiday apartment around the corner from Portobello Road with its antique markets and designer shops. A mix of English and Italian dcor makes this a warm and comfortable home.....[ Photos of the flat ] Old Church Street Apartment - Chelsea, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) This cosy Chelsea flat is a real little hide away just a stones throw from the designer and antique shops of Kings Road....[ Photos of the flat ] Ovington Square Apartment - Knightsbridge, London Price per night for 2 : Range #1 (155 us$ - 288 us$) Charming, quintessential English residence with paintings, period furniture and elegant fabrics. Settle down around the working fireplace after browsing through the wonders and riches of the neighbouring Victoria & Albert Museum....[ Photos of the flat ] Abbotsbury Road Apartment - Kensington, London Price per night for 4 : Range #2 (288 us$ - 525 us$) This rental with its English dcor, furnished with period pieces and paintings, will give you a taste of living as a local and is just around the corner from one of London's most beautiful parks, Holland Park.....[ Photos of the flat ] Palace Place Mansions Apartment - Kensington, London Price per night for 6 : Range #2 (288 us$ - 525 us$) This is a family home in Kensington perfect for larger parties visiting London. The vast and magnificent Hyde Park is just across the road with fascinating Kensington Palace and Gardens.....[ Photos of the flat ] Britannia Road Apartment - Fulham, London Price per night for 4 : Range #2 (288 us$ - 525 us$) This is a traditional English London residence in a quiet part of Chelsea. For football followers the Chelseas Stamford Bridge is five minutes away. Otherwise, a train from Fulham Broadway takes you to West End in no time.....[ Photos of the flat ] London flats : Budget | Capacity | Area | Alphabetical order 1-20 of 50 London apartments First| Previous| Next | Last Inquiry Form | List of all flats in London | London apartment search | Terms and Conditions | Home Apartments in Paris | Apartments in London | Villas & houses in Bali List of our London Vacation Apartment Rentals - Paris Sweet Home London Vacation Apartment Rentals - Short Term London Apartment Rentals are provided by Paris Sweet Home. Paris Sweet Home Rosentalweg 9, 6340 Baar, Switzerland Firma-ID-No.: CH-170.2.000.982-1 Phone : + 41 41 761 07 06 Paris Sweet Home 2005. All rights reserved. Webmaster : webmaster@parissweethome.com