Kimberly Fisher's Blog, page 233

Travel Guest Post: Inexpensive Hotels in Cyprus

When holiday makers are planning their trip to Cyprus, the thought of

accommodation occupies their mind. Will I find good hotels which offer superior services at an affordable cost?

Cyprus is a country of great natural beauty and gorgeous beaches. There are numerous cheap hotels Cyprus where you can count on great customer service, whether you are visiting as an individual or with an entourage. No matter what takes you to Cyprus, you will always find a place to be accommodated and enjoy the delicious food, entertainment, and sites.

When looking for inexpensive hotels in Cyprus, you don't have to sacrifice quality in order to pay less. There are many hotels offering "five star" services for their customers

but charging low prices. Most of these hotels normally have great working

partnerships with various travel companies. This makes it easy for holiday makers to source their services easily and conveniently. For example, Limassol, Kyrenia and Troodos Mountains Hotels not only offer you affordable prices, but they are located in

areas where you can enjoy great activities, like hiking in the summer months and skiing in the wintertime. It might also be worth your while to check out the local historical and archaeological sites in the area.

Some of these hotels are located very close to Paphos and Larnaca airport. This really helps shorten the distance you require to travel, after embarking from your flight. This is maybe one of the key things you are looking for, especially after a long flight. It is advisable that you pre-book hotels. With the country being famous for its great tourist attractions, the busy seasons are always tricky and the only way to save yourself from the

last minute frustration is by ensuring that you have made your booking early.

For special offers and availability on these hotels, check out: Cyprus Holiday.

Author: J.R. Rifat

Filed under: adventure, guest post, holiday, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: adventure, cheap hotels, cyprus

Travel: Monterey – The Ultimate Californian Musical Getaway

Love music?

Love California?

Check out the upcoming musical lineup in Monterey, CA:

October 7-8, 2011 – Furthur: Fans can expect Lesh & Weir to push the musical envelope with jaw-dropping improvisations and loving renditions of Grateful Dead classicsin the musical journey "Furthur." Monterey County Fairgrounds, Monterey, CA.  831.372.5863; www.montereycountyfair.com

October 13, 2011 – Henry Miller Memorial Library Presents Ryan Adams + Jason Isbell: Enjoy an evening under the stars celebrating the library's 30th anniversary with this dynamic duo. 831.667.2574; www.henrymiller.org

February 2, 2012 – Preservation Hall Jazz Band: The Preservation Hall Jazz Band is a piece of living American history, direct and uncomplicated, improvisatory and unabashedly joyful. Sunset Center, Carmel, CA. 831.620.2048; www.sunsetcenter.org

March 2-4, 2012 – Dixieland Monterey: Three days of Dixieland and swing in downtown Monterey, featuring top national bands, youth bands and more. Monterey, CA. 831.675.0289; www.dixieland-monterey.com

March 30 – April 1, 2012 – Next Generation Jazz Festival: The Monterey Jazz Festival turns the spotlight on the young up-and-coming musicians who will form the vanguard jazz music in the coming decades with a newly expanded event augmented by fresh performances and activities. Free. Portola Plaza and Conference Center, Monterey, CA. 831.373.3366; www.montereyjazzfestival.org

April 7, 2012 – Harlem Gospel Choir: The world-famous Harlem Gospel Choir is America's premier gospel ensemble, and has traveled the globe for 25 years sharing its joy of faith while raising funds for children's charities. The Choir's rich harmonies and dynamic sound are always unfettered, joyous and inspirational. Sunset Center, Carmel, CA. 831.620.2048; www.sunsetcenter.org

May 18-20, 2012 – Monterey Rock n' Rod Festival: The annual festival draws admirers and collectors of classic and custom cars and trucks as well as rock n' roll. Children five and under are admitted free of charge. Monterey County Fairgrounds, Monterey, CA. 831.649.0102; www.montereyrockrod.com

June – October, 2012 Henry Miller Memorial Library Concert Series: This historic venue tucked deep in Big Sur offers a surprising array top-flight artists during its annual summer concert series. Past performances have included Arcade Fire, Patti Smith, Philip Glass, John Waters, the Dodos and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Big Sur, CA. 831.667.2574; www.henrymiller.org

June 22-24, 2012 – Monterey Bay Blues Festival: Considered one of the premier blues festivals in the country, the 27th Monterey Bay Blues Festival brings together the perfect blend of world-renowned blues artists as well as young budding artists that will sooth the soul. Monterey County Fairgrounds, Monterey, CA. 831.394.2652; www.montereyblues.com/index.html

June, 2012 – Spirit West Coast: A multiple-day Christian Music Festival and the largest of its kind on the West Coast. Well over 50 artists appear at each festival, presenting a wide variety of music styles on multiple stages. Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, Monterey, CA. 408.377.9232; www.spiritwestcoast.org

July 14-28, 2012 – Carmel Bach Festival: The Carmel Bach Festival has a 75-year history of celebrating music and ideas inspired by Johann Sebastian Bach. The Festival offers a compelling array of national and international artists who will perform in a variety of unique venues including the Sunset Center, Carmel Mission Basilica, Church in the Forest, Pebble Beach and All Saints Church. Carmel, CA. 831.624.1521; www.bachfestival.org

July 27-29, 2012 – Monterey Bay Reggaefest: The 17th annual Monterey Bay Reggaefest features over 25 performances from star reggae performers, dancehall acts, and cultural dancers throughout the three-day celebration. Monterey County Fairgrounds, Monterey, CA. 831.394.6534; www.mbayreggaefest.net

August, 2012 – Philip Glass' Days and Nights Festival: One of the most prolific artists in recent decades celebrates music, dance, poetry and film at this annual festival held in Big Sur and Carmel Valley. Exact dates tbd. 831.659.7445; www.daysandnightsfestival.com

Filed under: adventure, california, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: california, monterey, music

Travel: Chicago Highlights

I was lucky enough to spend a long weekend in the windy city, at the very end of September. The weather is perfect at this time, with just a hint of winter right around the corner but enough sunshine to keep visitors like me happy. If you have never been to Chicago, add it to your list. A cultural hot spot, you will be kept busy with things to do. Check out some highlights from this trip:

The view from the top of the John Hancock Observatory:

Staying in the historic Palmer House Hilton:

Visiting the Shedd Aquarium:

Exploring Chicago Architecture:

Decadent eats from Portillo's, Quartino, Sugar Bliss Cakes & Shaw's Crab House:

Till next time…

Filed under: camera phone pictures, chicago, holiday, my life, pictures, travel Tagged: chicago, food, john hancock observatory, shedd aquarium, weekend getaways

Travel Guest Post: A Perfect Holiday-The Channel Islands

Situated in the English Channel, lying close to the north coast of France are a group of islands each with its own, unique history, culture and micro climate. Bathed by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, the Channel Islands boast a mild climate and a natural beauty that have made them a perfect holiday destination. The Channel Islands archipelago was once a part of mainland Europe until rising sea levels separated it around 8000 BC.

Today, it is divided into two independent British crown dependencies, the Bailiwicks of Jersey and Guernsey, which together are made up of eight inhabited islands and numerous tiny islets. The five main islands are popular tourist destinations.

Jersey

The largest and most southerly of the main islands, Jersey is blessed with pristine beaches, lush valleys, majestic cliffs and stunning vistas. Only nine miles long and five miles wide, the island changes size twice a day with the ebb and flow of the tide, which is one of the highest tidal ranges in the world at twelve plus meters. Jersey's beautiful countryside and impressive coastline is easily accessible by road, bicycle or on foot. The island is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna, including some rare species that are found nowhere else. In the spring and summer the sand dunes, woodlands, cliffs, hedgerows and open fields come alive with wildflowers and many species of birds. Jersey offers plenty of action and adventure with every type of water-sport imaginable. When it comes to accommodation, the holiday traveler has a wide range of options, from campgrounds to five-star hotels.

Guernsey

Second in size to Jersey, the island of Guernsey is a welcoming place that leaves a lasting impression on all those who visit. Due to its mild winters, the island is in bloom all year long and there are many natural treasures waiting to be discovered. From the wooded valleys to private gardens, sleepy lanes, secret coves, rock pools, cliff walks and nature reserves, the stunning scenery and abundant variety of birds brings nature lovers back year after year. Whether you want to spend your days exploring nature, soaking up the sun on a beach, or windsurfing, Guernsey offers activities to suit every taste.

Alderney

Just a little over three miles long by one and a half miles at its widest point, Alderney is the third largest island and is located just nine miles from the coast of Normandy. It is infamous for its rugged, dangerous coastline; the site of many shipwrecks, some which are yet to be discovered. The island is a magnet for ramblers, birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts with dozens of miles of trails, two hundred and sixty species of birds, over one thousand species of wildflowers, and a blonde species of hedgehog unique to the island.

Sark and Herm

These two islands are the perfect choice for vacationers who really want to get away from it all. What they have in common is that there are no cars, virtually no pollution and an overwhelming atmosphere of peace and tranquility. People get around by walking; cycling; or they can get a ride on a horse-drawn carriage. Sark, the larger of the two, offers a range of hotel, guest houses and lodgings. Herm is a tiny jewel. The only hotel on the island has no telephones, televisions or clocks. Both of the islands have beautiful unspoilt beaches, a stunning array of plants, flowers and birds and breathtaking sea views.

The Channel Islands are a perfect holiday destination for families, nature lovers, adventure seekers and anyone who just wants to kick back and relax in a place completely removed from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Author: Nisha represents Kissimmeehotels.co.uk. She loves to write, especially about family life and travel. Feel free to visit her site for Goldstar Hotel and Suites.

Filed under: adventure, france, guest post, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: Alderney, channel islands, english channel, france, Guernsey, Sark and Herm, T

Travel Guest Post: Eastern Europe Motorcycle Tour

I grew up in Europe, and my parents gave me wide latitude with my wanderings.  In college, however, I found myself rooted to one place, perhaps for the first time ever.  I couldn't roam the countryside of other countries, because I had deadlines to meet and responsibilities to fulfill.  It's been six years since I moved to the States to go to college, and I had summer vacation coming up in grad school and decided to go on a motorcycle tour of Eastern Europe.  I was inspired by an old school mate from secondary school in London, who had gone on a similar trip the year before.

My motorcycle, a sleek Honda that was my graduation gift upon completion of my undergraduate studies, had fallen into slight disrepair, but after I ordered the necessary motorcycle parts and had a mechanic friend make all necessary repairs, I was ready to go.  Because I was on a budget, I forewent joining an organized tour; instead, I found a few itineraries online and amalgamated them to create the one I eventually used.  I visited my local AAA office to secure my International Driving Permit and arranged overseas insurance and shipping for my bike, and I was ready to go.

My route took me from Austria to the Czech Republic to Germany, then back through the Czech Republic on my way through Poland.  After a brief layover in Kraków, I traveled south through Slovakia, and ended up in Hungary.  In all, I was in eastern Europe for fifteen days, thirteen of which were spent on the open road, touring this historic and scenic part of the world.  Below are some highlights:

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague has been the capital of the Czech Republic for more than 1,100 years, and its perfectly preserved Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque and Art Nouveau architecture is worthy of a trip of its own.  During my time in Prague, I spent time on the Charles Bridge, enjoying the musicians and vendors located there; watched the procession of the twelve apostles and marveled at the medieval sculpture on the Astronomical Clock; and sought out the John Lennon Wall, a graffiti-covered wall that endorses Lennon's message of peace.  I also visited the Museum of Medieval Torture Instruments, a museum dedicated to torture practices.

Dresden, Germany

I made my way to Dresden, where I enjoyed an additional day of rest.  Dresden is the clean, quiet capital of the State of Saxony in Germany, and is known as the one-time home of composer Richard Wagner.  Located along the banks of the Elbe River, Dresden is known for its architecture and is frequently called "the Florence of the Elbe."  A must-see sight in Dresden is the Dresden Frauenkirche (literally Church of Our Lady), which was rebuilt after World War II and is now considered a symbol of reconciliation.  Legend has it that it is the location of one of seven energy centers scattered around the globe, and that by leaning against the wall of the Crypt of St. Jerome, you can absorb some of that energy for yourself.

Kraków, Poland

Kraków us the former capital of Poland, and is known for St. Mary's Basilica and Wawel cathedral and castle.  Because I had an extra day to spend in this city, I spent a long afternoon on Floriańska Street, where I ate at a kebab stand, had my caricature drawn, and bought a sheepskin hat and amber necklace.  In addition to this, I also spent a while walking around the Planty, and people-watching in the Market Square.  Located by St. Mary's Basilica, visitors to Market Square can hear hourly trumpet signals played by firefighters that is cut short to commemorate the death of a 13th century trumpeter who was shot in the throat while warning of a Mongol attack on Kraków.

Budapest, Hungary

My final destination was Budapest, dubbed by many as "one of the most beautiful cities in the world."  This city is home to numerous castles and churches, and the skyline is graced with breathtaking gothic architecture.  My favorite place to visit was the Fisherman's Bastion, which is probably the closest to a fairytale castle you can find in eastern Europe.   My hostel overlooked the Chain Bridge, which was the first bridge to span the Danube River into Budapest, and when I awoke, I was fortunate to see this bridge enshrouded in fog—a very impressive sight.  The whole city is impressive, for that matter, from Buda Castle to the Great Market Hall, and everything in-between

My motorcycle tour was an unforgettable experience.  I saw parts of Europe that I had never seen before, and I was reminded of the importance of learning and understanding the history and culture of other countries.  Eastern Europe is chock-full of historic landmarks and beautiful architecture that will keep even the most ardent of history lovers busy for weeks.  There were many places I would have liked to explore, but was unable to due to self-imposed time constraints, which means that I have my work cut out for me the next time I plan a motorcycle tour of eastern Europe.

Author: Alexa Thomas

Filed under: adventure, europe, guest post Tagged: adventure, europe, motorcycle

Travel Guest Post: Summer in Park City

Park City is definitely one of the most sought-after destinations in North America, mainly for its countless offerings when it comes to both relaxation and entertainment. However, one of the most common mistakes that most people make when considering visiting Park City is to think that the city is only good at offering winter activities. Since Park City hosted the 2002 winter Olympics, its led people throughout the country to think of it as a "winter city". Nothing could be further for the truth however. In fact, Park City offers some great things to see and to do during the summer as well. Here are some of the most interesting ones:

Golfing: Very few activities in Park City offer the same level of enjoyment throughout the year as golf does. Park City has many golf courses spread along the city that are even more attractive during the summer, providing golfers with amazing views of the surrounding nature. Some of the best golf courses in Park City are the Victory Ranch Club and the Park City Golf Club, which tend to sport some great offers during the summer.
Hay rides: Perhaps one of the most relaxing activities to enjoy during summer in Park City, hay rides are horse-drawn rides that take visitors all along the most scenic views in the along both the city and the beautiful surrounding nature around it. Adventures at the Stillman Ranch and Snowed Inn Sleigh Company are definitely the two main highlights when it comes to choosing the right places to enjoy the best hay rides.
Biking and Hiking: Biking and hiking are definitely two of the most sought-after activities by adventure-seeking vacationers that come to Park City, and reasonably so, since the city sports some amazing trails and landscapes that are available to visitors either through lift rides or by simply walking all along them. When it comes to choosing from among the most thrilling hiking tours, the All Seasons Adventures resort definitely offers the best ones.
Hot Air Balloon Rides: If there is one summer activity in Park City that is plain FUN and one of the most enjoyable ones, it is definitely hot air balloon rides, which offers by far the most breathtaking views of the entire Park City and its gorgeous surrounding areas. Two of the most reputed companies that offer the best balloon rides in town are Morning Start Balloons and Park City Balloon Adventures, which also carry some amazing offers during the Park City summer season.

Author: Rick Mumford from http://www.parkcityvacationrentals.com/.

Filed under: adventure, guest post, travel, travel planning Tagged: adventure, park city, summer

Travel Guest Post: Top 5 Unusual Cruise Activities

Modern day cruise ships have such a vast array of entertainment and activities available on board that a day at sea can be almost as fun as a full day sightseeing. The regular things such as casinos, sports & gym classes have been popular for many years, but the new-age cruise activities will leave you breathless. From zip-line to rock-climbing, wine-tasting to ice-skating, there's truly something for everyone. Here at LoveCruise we have constructed a guide on the Top 5 Unusual Cruise Activities, giving first time cruisers an insight on what to expect.

1. Zip-Line, Oasis of the Seas

Located on the Sports Deck on board Oasis of the Seas offers, this Zip-Line offers cruisers a thrilling new experience. Suspended nine decks high, this exhilarating experience will be unlike anything you have ever participated in before.  Guests race diagonally across an open-air atrium for a unique eagle-eye view, as they soar from one end of the ship to the other. Brace yourself for a spine-tingling rush view that will is sure to create memories lasting a lifetime.

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2. Ice Skating, Liberty of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas offers cruisers the unique experience of ice-skating as sail around the Caribbean, soaking up the glorious sunshine. There is a large indoor rink that allows cruisers to enjoy some fun recreational skating during the day. In the evening the rink is used for Ice Capades-type shows, which are very popular among guests of all ages.

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3. Circus Workshop, P&O Ventura

The Ventura offers cruisers the opportunity to receive professional teaching on a range of circus skills with their on board circus school! The Cirque deck, located on level 19, is home to a number of skilled performers who run workshops that teach passengers various circus acts. You will be taught how to walk along the tight rope, use a static and flying trapeze, break-dance and walk on stilts! The dedicated circus deck is equipped with four bungee trampolines, meaning passengers with a head for heights can leap around 200ft above sea level, while those with less lofty ambitions can learn to juggle, use a hula hoop or simply clown around!

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4. Big Screen Arcade Games, NCL Epic

If you are heavily into video games, then a Norwegian Cruise Line ship is the ideal place to be. The company's newest ship, The Norwegian Epic features a built in Wii systems attached to a two-story TV screen in the atrium, letting you be a massive part of the virtual action. Look on in amazement as your 15-foot-tall avatar bowls a perfect strike, or laugh with friends as your boxer lands a clean left hook on his opponents chin!

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5. Golf Cruise, Silversea

Silversea's Silver Links cruises provide cruise passengers with an opportunity to play at  35 golf courses in 16 countries and islands in the South Pacific, Mediterranean, Caribbean and Mexico. The cruises, which vary in length from one week to 17 days, enable avid golfers to take part in group excursions to some of the world's most scenic courses. On board you will be able to hone your skills with clinics, demonstrations, putting contests and private one-to-one lessons with a specialised golf professional.

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Author: Ellis Green of LoveCruise.co.uk, a UK cruise company specialising in cruises from Barcelona and last-minute cruise deals .

Filed under: adventure, cruise, guest post, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: adventure, cruise, unusual activities

Travel Guest Post: How to Take a Luxurious Medical Tourism Trip

Photo used under Creative Commons from Friar's Balsa

To help alleviate stresses of surgery, consider taking a luxurious medical tourism trip. Certain countries cater to medical tourists and the hotel accommodations provided will pamper the travelling patient. To help coordinate your trip, you will need to obtain a medical tourism facilitator; they will handle all the details.

However, as the patient, you should obtain any essential information from your personal physician. Also, as with any planned surgery, you should make sure that the facilities are accredited. Since the facility you choose will be in a foreign country make sure they are accredited by either the Joint Commission International (JCI) or the International Society for Quality in Healthcare.

Once you have determined that the facility meets the accreditation, you should plan your trip. Lay your worries aside and plan on a relaxing trip. It is a welcoming prospect that the cost of your trip, including the airfare, luxurious hotel accommodations, sightseeing and the surgery, should cost less than the very same surgery in your home country. If planning a medical tourism trip you should consider one of the following countries:

India

India has many accredited facilities to meet your healthcare needs. They are renowned around the world for their open heart surgeries and hip and knee replacements. But, they are not limited to only those specialties. In terms of sightseeing, what more can you ask for than a land that is the setting of the Taj Mahal, a lasting legacy of love? You've seen the pictures, and if you choose to have your surgery in India, you could actually visit it yourself.

Or, if you would prefer to spend your time in nature, India has beautiful beaches, and majestic mountains. Also, if your life is hectic, why not completely spend your time being pampered at the many spas. Some even offer Ayurveda and Naturopathic medicine to complement the modern healthcare you seek.

Mexico

Mexico has at least eight hospitals internationally certified for healthcare. Many travel from the USA for cheaper medical treatment, taking advantage of some of the newer hospitals that are among the best in the world. Mexico offers medical tourists a temperate climate to enjoy their myriad of beaches, or the opportunity to surf for the more adventurous. You could travel to Acapulco and observe the cliff divers. Or, if you prefer you could travel to Cabo san Lucas and try Marlin fishing.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers the medical tourism at least three accredited hospitals, including Hospital CIMA. Travellers come from the USA and Canada to take advantage of quality medical care at a lower price. Common treatments include general and cosmetic dentistry, orthopaedic surgery and fertility treatments. The average temperature is 72 degrees, so it offers the perfect weather to peer into a volcano's crater. Or, you could visit one of the many beaches.

Brazil

They are world renowned for their cosmetic surgeries, but also offer cardiac surgery and weight loss surgery for the medical tourist. You are recommended to visit only their private hospitals for treatment. There are therapeutic hot springs to visit. You could visit the dunes and waterfalls. For the adventurous, travel the Amazon and fish for Piranha. If you prefer a party, plan your medical tourism trip to coincide with Carnivale.

Thailand

They have over ten facilities that are accredited and the number of medical tourists visiting the area has been increasing since 2000. They also offer programs that specialise in Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease. Some of their popular treatments include bariatric surgery, eye surgery and dental procedures. In the modern city of Bangkok you can enjoy the underground subway, or the elevated sky train. Or, enjoy a trip back in time and travel the canals. However, try to avoid the Monsoon season.

Richard is a freelance writer who shares his knowledge about health, cosmetic dentistry and travelling abroad for dental tourism .

Filed under: guest post, holiday, luxury, Mexico, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: costa rica, india, medical tourism, Mexico, thailand

Travel Guest Post: Tipping 101

Tipping in different foreign countries can be a complex and confusing experience. This problem can be quite frustrating when you are an active traveler. You wonder how much tip does a cab driver expect and does he expect a tip at all. Your problems will not stop there. You will wonder the same thing at Hotels, night clubs and restaurants. I have never really thought about it until I kept having the same problem over and over again in the countries I have been in. That is why I decided to find out the tipping behavior in different countries and service industry.

Tipping a waiter in the USA

In the USA waiters make less money than the federal wage ($2.13/hour). This is why they expect to get a good tip from the customers when they visit the restaurant. A normal tip in the USA is approximately 15-20%. Sometimes, the credit card slip (where you sign the amount) may already have several suggested tip amounts calculated for your convenience (10%, 15%, 20%). You can either conclude the tip in the credit card slip itself or pay separately by cash. Do know that if you conclude the tip in the credit card slip, restaurants often don´t give the tip to the waiters. So I strongly advise you to pay the tip in cash.

Tipping a cab driver in the USA

In the United States it is normal to pay a cab driver 10% of your taxi fair. This is of course if he helps you load and unload the bags.

Tipping a bellboy in the USA

At a hotel, the bellboy who handles the bags should get $1-$2 per bag. This is especially In New York City very appreciated.

Tipping for a haircut or beauty treatment in the USA

When you go for a haircut or beauty treatment, you should generally tip at least 10%-20% to the provider of the service. This is very unusual in countries outside of the US and does not happen in every state. In many countries, they never heard of a tip for a haircut.

Note that tips can vary within the country and that in big cities they usually tip more than in little ones. For example in NYC they tip more than in San Angelo Texas.

England

The tipping behavior in England is very different than it is in the US. In England, waiters do not get paid less than minimum wage. So the tip depends mostly on various factors. For example: the place, the food and the quality of service. If it is an elegant place, a tip is certainly expected, but even than it would not be more than 10%. People from England feel that good service is simply part of their job. In a less fancy restaurant, a tip is not expected but small tip is appreciated.

Tipping a cab driver in England

Tipping the cab driver however is the same as in the United States. The amount is about 10% of the total fare.

Tipping a bellboy in England

A Bell boy gets just like in the US around the 2 pounds.

Tipping a waiter in Spain

The first thing you should know when entering Spain is that tipping is not mandatory. You only tip in classy, sit-down restaurants, where the service is good. If you like, you can also tip in cafeterias, but most people just leave their change. The idea of a typical American 15-20% tip does not exist in Spain.

Tipping a cab driver in Spain

The same rule applies with cab drivers. They don't expect a tip. But if you really want to thank him for doing something extra, just politely ask him to keep the change.

Tipping a bell boy in Spain

It is a courtesy gesture to tip a bell boy after he just carried your luggage to your room, but not mandatory.

Tipping in China and Japan

Unlike the United States and Europe, it is in China not part of their culture and traditions to tip. At many establishments there is even a strict no tip policy. This includes massage studios, barbers, restaurants and more. Some Chinese people will think it is impolite to offer gratuity because they feel like what they do is undervalued.

Tipping in Hong Kong

Tipping in Hong Kong is a whole different story. Tipping in Hong Kong is even bigger than tipping in New York City. A cab driver will round up the amount as a tip to himself, a bellboy expects a tip of $5 – $10 per bag, restaurants include a 10% tip and expect you to tip some extra and classy restaurants and hotels include a 15% service charge. You pretty much have to tip everywhere.

Conclusion

The tipping amount varies per country. Even within a country or area the tipping behavior can be very different from each other. If you have any knowledge about tipping in a particular country I would love to hear it.

Article written by J.Besters, blogger and writer for apartime.com provider of vacation rental apartments in New York City.

 

Filed under: guest post, travel, travel planning, travel tips Tagged: international customs, money, tipping

Travel Guest Post: Luxury Skiing in France

There are many luxury ski resorts in France and the best of these attract skiers from around the world, lured into the resorts by the powder and après ski. France has some of the best Alpine skiing in Europe and the French food certainly makes a holiday in the country worthwhile. Whether you are a seasoned skier or a beginner looking for the best crêperie, there will be the perfect French resort for you.

Les Arcs ski holidays, for example, are increasingly popular with British tourists, drawn in by long runs and great accommodation. The resort, which is situated at both 1600 and 1800, overlooks the town of Bourg-St-Maurice. The resort competes with some of the most luxurious skiing areas in Europe and has recently been linked with the neighbouring resort of La Plagne. The total ski area of Paradiski, the two areas combined, is now one of the largest in France. The impressive Vanoise Express cable car has linked the two areas, offering another 225km of fantastic piste country. Now skiers can gain access to two peaks of more than 3,000m, three glaciers, 420km of piste and 175 ski lifts. The resort itself is separated into three levels: Arc 1800 has a good selection of shops and restaurants and is a firm favourite with families. Intermediate and advanced skiers should head for Arc 2000 where you can find the more advanced slopes.

Another star of the French skiing scene is Courchevel. The premier resort attracts the rich and famous from around the world. The shopping and après ski in the area is legendary. The bars in 1850, including Piggy's and Bar Le Jump, are crowded with both seasonaires and Chanel clad skiers. Whether you are a Roxy girl or a huge fan of Henri Duvillard, there will be somewhere for you to hang out in Courchevel. As the resort spans several areas there is a huge choice of accommodation, from budget to luxury chalet. The many slopes offering a huge variety of skiing opportunities and every level of ability is represented. Whether you fancy off piste or a blue run, you will find that Courchevel has everything you need.

Article by: Gintaras Jovaisas

 

 

 

Filed under: europe, france, guest post, luxury, travel, travel planning, travel tips, travel writing Tagged: france, holiday, luxury, ski