Rio de Janeiro - 10 Things You Need To Know

The best beaches in Rio de Janeiro, where you can enjoy the best views and more with Hostelworld.com's Colm Hanratty.



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Aruba Travel Facts - Five Things to Know Before You Go

Your vacation to Aruba is only two months away and you're busy planning for your trip. While you are really looking forward to your trip there are some nagging questions for which you wish you had answers. Here are the most common questions we get based on feedback from our readers;

1. Can I use my cell phone in Aruba? In almost all cases the answer is yes. Aruba has good cell phone service across the island and your phone will work in most locations. Keep in mind that you may need to have your cell phone carrier in your home country enable your phone for international use. Here are a couple of key things to remember - using your cell phone in ANY country outside of your home country is normally very expensive and Aruba is no different. If you have a data plan for your phone and want to check your e-mail this is even more true. Be VERY careful when you use your phone for calling while in Aruba. We suggest turning your data service OFF while you are in Aruba. You can check your e-mail from your computer in your room or in one of the Internet Cafes in Aruba. It will be significantly cheaper!

2. Will my electrical appliances work in Aruba? If you are from North America the answer is yes - Aruba uses US-standard 110vac 60Hz electric service and outlets. Travelers from Europe will need the appropriate adapters for their appliances, computers, etc.

3. Is it easy to get around in Aruba? This certainly depends where you will be on the island but the answer in most cases is yes - very easy. Aruba's taxi service is very good - the Taxi drivers are courteous and they keep their cars in very good shape. If you are staying in the high-rise or low-rise hotel areas you will find a bus route that runs from the California Lighthouse to Oranjestad. The cost is very reasonable and the service is punctual. You'll feel comfortable taking the bus once you've experienced it your fist time.

4. Is there crime in Aruba? There are several Caribbean islands that have a difficult time with crime, fortunately crime in Aruba is minimal in comparison. Aruba's crime rate is low thanks in-part to the efforts of the government there to provide basic services to all citizens. This does not mean that you do not have to be careful however - always use caution and common sense when traveling on the island. In the evening, stay out of neighborhoods that are outside the normal tourist areas. Don't leave valuables alone on the beach while you are there - the beaches are open to all on the island and unattended valuables may not be safe.

5. What is the immigration and customs process when visiting Aruba? With the exception of key travel days getting into Aruba and out of Aruba is a very easy process. The airport has been expanded and resources provided by the government to keep delays at a minimum. When you get to Aruba you'll first need to go through Immigration. There is a form you must fill-out before entering the country. You will be given part of the form back to keep and present when you leave the country. After Immigration you'll pick-up your baggage if you've checked bags then go through Customs. In most cases you are welcomed and waved through with a smile.

Now you have some basic knowledge to prepare you for your trip to Aruba. It's a great country to visit and we're sure you'll have a wonderful time!

Top 5 Basic Things to Consider When Choosing a Travel Agent For Traveling to Antarctica

Travelers planning a trip must perform due diligence with the task of choosing a dependable travel agent. This becomes crucial when the planned trip is to Antarctica. The harsh and unpredictable weather as well as remote and inhospitable geographical conditions of the region demand that experienced and capable people handle the affairs of an expedition be it by air or sea.

Choosing a dependable travel agent is a tricky job as there are a dismayingly large number of travel agencies out there. Anyone with a little knowledge of Internet ticket booking and awareness of travel destinations can set up a travel agency. It is hard to expect quality and dependable service even from registered travel agencies as the registration process is simple and doesn't require much more than filling out a simple form and paying some fees. Airliners and cruise liners affiliations are also meaningless. Let the lure of visiting the White Continent not make you overlook some basic factors in choosing a travel agent. If I were traveling to Antarctica these are the things I would be concentrating on for selecting a travel agent.

Reputation

This is the prime consideration while choosing a travel agent. Usually, the more reputable a travel agency the better is its service. Ascertain whether it's lower cost or quality service that makes a particular travel agent special. Your target is clearly reputation based on the dependability of service. Cheap and best are not applicable always. You don't drive the cheapest car, don't wear the cheapest dress, and don't eat out in the cheapest restaurant. So why choose a travel agent that specializes in providing cheap services. You are going to Antarctica, remember. Everything should be top notch. You should concentrate on getting that. Getting better rates becomes secondary to getting top equipment, facilities, and services.

People assume that the longer a travel agency is in business the better will be the quality of their service. This is purely a common assumption and there are no statistics to support this. Not how long has the travel agency been in service, but how well is it serving travelers now should be the question uppermost in your mind. The fact is that there are many old travel agencies on the verge of running out of business and there are many new travel agencies offering better services with newer and appropriate policies. Reputed, experienced, and efficient should be the preferred criteria of your choice. Equally important is to choose tour operators that specialize in expeditions to ice covered lands like the Arctic and Antarctica.

Check with Friends, Clients, and Suppliers

The best opinions that you can get are from trusted friends and associates that have traveled to Antarctica. If you can tolerate a little exaggeration or understatement you will get honest opinions from them. However, don't take a single emphatic recommendation as final. Check and verify with others about any recommendation. Find from the recommended travel agent if they are giving any benefits to clients for bringing in referrals. Make sure that your friend has not referred you mainly to earn benefits for himself.

Get a list of existing clients and suppliers from the travel agent to verify its claims. Find out how the travel agency performs on a bad day. Be careful as it's natural on the part of a supplier to say only positive things about a travel agent if the latter is the former's client. You should contact a reliable and reputable supplier to establish the truth whether or not the travel agent does business with it. Clients can better testify about the veracity of the claims made by a tour operator. Get an exhaustive list of clients so that the travel agent will not know which ones you are going to contact. If you are taking the contact address of a few clients then contact them right away so that the travel agent gets no time to tutor clients and dress up testimonies.

Dependable Team

The competencies and expertise of the expedition team are crucial to an Antarctic expedition. In the unending stretch of ice and cold water you have only them to ensure your safety. A dependable team should comprise of at least one veteran captain having several expedition experiences, expert sailors, environmentalists, geologists familiar with the topography of the continent and specializing in glaciology, oceanographers, marine biologists, polar scientists, and polar educators. It's essential for all the above people to have previous Antarctic expedition experience. Make sure that the team has all the qualification and experience to make your expedition a safe and enjoyable one.

Sturdy Ship

Special attention must be paid for the kind of ship the travel agent is going to put you on and the team that will lead the expedition. The ship must be in top condition. It must have all the latest communication tools as well as expedition equipment. Find out how well the ship can cope with disaster?

Ask the travel agent about which cruise liners are listed in their agency and how many voyages the cruise liners have made to Antarctica? The more successful voyages made by a cruise liner the better - the rule is simple. Is your travel agency offering good ice breaking ships or ice strengthening cruises? If you are more adventurous you should prefer the ice breaking cruises as they will take you to places that just ice strengthened ships cannot take. Ask the tour operator what kind of logistics the ships offer (zodiacs and helicopters). What kind of gear and equipment do they make available on the ship? Will the ship have qualified guides, naturalists, geologists, and sailors to make the expedition safe and successful?

Some More Questions to Ask the Tour Operators

There are expeditions led by people that have explored the entire Antarctic. Your expedition can benefit immensely from the knowledge of such people. Find out whether the tour operators are members of International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO). IAATO is a private body, which has laid down the rules to be followed by tour operators while going to Antarctica and about conduct on the continent.

Ask the travel agent this precious question, "what service they offer which any other agents do not or cannot offer"? Compare the results and answers of the travel agents and go for the most reliable one.

If you plan to fly over part of Antarctica then find out from the tour operator whether the pilot and crew members have previous flying experience to the continent. Some travel agencies make sure that the captain of the airplane has flown to Antarctica at least once before.

These are just five basic factors that you should consider when selecting a travel agent for an expedition to Antarctica. There are more things that you should take into account while doing the due diligence in this regard. Look up on the Internet and guidebooks to cover all the aspects to make sure that you have taken utmost care in selecting a travel agent. Do not always trust what is posted in forums without cross checking. For that matter trust advise or information only when they come from an authentic and reputed source. Cross check them to be absolutely sure. Have a safe and happy voyage.

Best Things to Do in the Summer 2010

Greece is an adorable place visited by a large amount of tourists frequently every year. Summer is the best season to backpack and move towards Greece. Rhodes Island in Greece is a perfect place to enjoy a memorable holiday.

The beautiful beaches of Rhodes are the main highlight of the area. The clean and clear blue water gives a great sense of loving the nature. Accommodation with quality services is also available in the Rhodes Island.

Rhodes Holidays are exciting for its beautiful beach sand, fantastic tourist's resorts, delicious food and numerous other things to do in 2010. Following is a brief account of some fun activities you can do in summer of 2010:

Top 5 things to do on Rhodes Island

Rhodes Holidays menu for 2010 deals with a number of amazing activities like swimming, worth-seeing places, delicious meals, peace of mind and festivity etc. It would therefore be one of the marvelous Rhodes holidays ideas.

1. Delicious Foods: You can enjoy many new and delicious cuisines as a menu for 2010. Most of the hotels and restaurants along with certain fast food corners offer a wide variety of healthy meals of various origins. They make sure that during your holidays, you find each meal hundred times good and delicious.

2. Worth Seeing Places: Some of the worth seeing places on Rhodes Island include Ladiko, Faliraki, Nikolas, Monolithos and Prassonissi. Here you can do anything you want; such as swimming, party, meals, dating, romance and a lot more fun activities.

You can also visit certain museums and hilly areas for the sake of exploration. Don't worry about the accommodation as most of the hotels are providing comfy rooms on reasonable rates.

3. Swimming: The beautiful beach of Faliraki lined with fine sand offers great swimming activities for the forth coming holidaymakers. A lot of new swimming pools are under construction to provide superior swimming pleasures to their visitors.

You can enjoy swimming, water-sports, umbrellas, sun-beds, hotels, restaurants and bars on the golden sands and crystalline waters of Faliraki.

4. Peace of Mind: Rhodes Holidays offers a lot for visitors who want to enjoy their holidays with peace of mind. There are many beautiful yet calm places in Rhodes that can accommodate every peace seeker. You should make your mind and book a flight to Rhodes to spend some peaceful holidays in 2010.

5. Fun and Parties: Rhodes Island is as much a partying place as anywhere else. It has a lot of fun activities to do for the youngsters or party loving people. It facilitates the visitors with every kind of entertainment that can make the visitor enjoy.

Dance, music, DJs on deck, beer bars and lively night clubs are the places visited more frequently by visitors on their Rhodes Holidays. All these activities contribute in making your trip memorable for a long time.

If you are planning your Summer 2010 holidays then book a flight and come to Rhodes for enjoying the best holidays of your life.

Top Things to Do and See in Georgia

Since the 1996 Olympics Georgia has grown in population and notoriety, and for good reason. The warm climate that allows for year round fun makes Georgia the perfect travel destination. Until you have experienced Georgia in the spring you haven't fully experienced all life has to offer. Of course the beautiful fall colors and cool temperatures are a close runner up as the perfect Georgia season.

If you decide to visit Georgia there are several must see places and things to do. The top Atlanta attraction is the Georgia Aquarium. Other must see places include Savannah and the coast of Georgia, Helen and the North Georgia Mountains, Stone Mountain, and for some adrenaline pumping fun visit Six Flags.

The Georgia Aquarium is visited by thousands of families each year. Since opening just a few years ago this site has attracted people from all over the world. Billed as the largest aquarium on the planet the Georgia Aquarium near downtown Atlanta is a must see. Visit the Coca-Cola museum next door and taste samples of Coke products sold worldwide. The best time to visit the Aquarium and the Coke museum is during the week because the crowds are so thick on the weekends that it's difficult to fully enjoy.

There's no way to fully describe Savannah in one paragraph, but this is a must see city. Not just a must see Georgia city, but a must see American city. Savannah is arguably the most beautiful city in America and is probably one of the most beautiful in the world. From the live oak lined streets to the old houses to the beach there is something for everyone in Savannah. Tour homes, visit museums, eat at fantastic restaurants, and stroll the streets to fully appreciate this lovely place.

Cruise on up to the North Georgia Mountains and spend the morning driving the Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway before stopping in Helen for lunch and a few hours of shopping. If it's summer time make sure to rent a tube and float down the Chattahoochee River. Don't forget to taste test the fudge, but be warned because it's so good you'll probably leave with a pound or two - of fudge that is.

Near Atlanta is Stone Mountain Park. This park surrounds the famous granite rock that is visible from many areas in Atlanta. You can hike or take a tram to the top of the mountain. Visit the old homes and other areas in the park for a full day of fun. At night sit back on the lawn and watch the spectacular laser show on the side of the mountain.
End your trip to Georgia with a day at Six Flags. This theme park has been around for about forty years and has delighted several generations of families. Some of the best roller coasters in the world are at Six Flags over Georgia. If you are a little more timid don't let the roller coasters scare you because there are plenty of other fun things to do at Six Flags like great shows and many tame rides.

This short article can't even begin to tell you about all the great things there are to do and see in Georgia, but I hope it helps. Georgia can be fast paced or slow. It is known for technology and for its rural charm. Georgia is a top travel destination and welcomes you with open arms.

Top 10 Things to Do in the Eastern Cape

Enjoy an adventurous holiday in the Eastern Cape. Ranging from evergreen forests to semi-arid regions to the rugged coastline, the Eastern Cape is South Africa's most diverse province.

Whether you're looking to enjoy a relaxing holiday on the beach, encounter the Big Five or looking for a cultural excursion, there will never be a dull moment in the Eastern Cape.

Addo Elephant National Park
Situated in the Sundays River Region of the Eastern Cape, the Addo Elephant National Park is home to some 400 elephants as well as Cape buffalo, the endangered black rhino, a variety of antelope and the flightless dung beetle.

Aliwal North Hot Springs Spa
Situated near the Orange River, between the Free State plateau and the Eastern Cape hills, Aliwal North Hot Springs Spa is a haven of peace and tranquility. Relax and unwind in the variety of indoor and outdoor pools.

Beaches
Looking for fun in the sun? Enjoy hundreds of kilometres of untouched, golden beaches in the Eastern Cape. Offering a wide range of choices catering for every personality, from the stay-at-home types to the adventurous at heart, the Sunshine Coast is a destination for the ultimate sun, sea and surf holiday.

Bungee Jumping
Bloukrans Bridge, the highest single span arch bridge, is the home to the highest commercially operated bungee jump. Get your adrenaline pumping as you jump off the 216m high bridge. For those less daring, take a walk along the catwalk to the top of the arch and enjoy panoramic views of the unforgettable scenery.

Cape Floral Region
Home to nearly 20% of Africa's flora and covering an area of 553000ha, this World Heritage Site is one of the world richest floral regions. The Cape Floral Region is made up of 8 protected areas throughout the Eastern and Western Cape.

Cultural Heritage Tours
The Eastern Cape is well-known for its proud heritage and culture. Situated in the heart of the Karoo, Graaf-Reinet is one of the oldest towns in South Africa and home to more national monuments than any other town. Discover the history of the Karoo and Graaf-Reinet in the town's 4 museums.

Nelson Mandela Museum
Situated in the town of Mthatha and spread across three different areas, the Nelson Mandela Museum offers visitors an inspirational journey through the life of Nelson Mandela.

Karoo
Explore the splendor of the vast plains, magnificent mountains, and crisp air of the Karoo Heartland. Rich cultural diversity, a variety of fauna and flora, friendly people and activities for all kind of tourists, the Karoo is a place for everyone.

Tiffindell Ski Resort
Situated on the highest mountain in the Eastern Cape, Ben McDhui Peak, Tiffindell is the only ski resort in South Africa.

Wild Coast
Rolling green hills, endless beaches, secluded bays and waterfalls that flow into the ocean, the Wild Coast is an area of unsurpassed natural beauty. The Wild Coast is a destination of adventure with sun, sea and the feel of a truly African coastline.

Top Six Fun Things To Do in Lincoln City Oregon

1. Go Fly a Kite!

Lincoln City is located at the 45th parallel. What this means is you get steady winds pretty much year round. This makes Lincoln City the self-proclaimed "Kite Capital of the World" There are two kite festivals each year in Lincoln City, one in June and one in October. The beaches, all 7 miles of them, are beautiful and provide plenty of room for kite flying! So go and feel like a kid again!

2. Take in a Show!

The Chinook Winds Casino is a beautiful casino, right on the ocean. It's a great place to stay, and they always have big name musical acts. Of course there is the gambling that is available. The Casino also offers a restaurant, pool and a sauna to relax in. They also offer child care, with arcades, Nintendo and a playground.

3. Watch the Glass Blow!

The Alderhouse Glassblowing Studio is well worth your time. You can watch masters at the ancient art of glassblowing. You can also purchase some of their beautiful pieces, including something called a Witch Ball. You will be amazed at what they can do with glass.

4. View the Mighty D River?

The D River is not all that mighty. It is the shortest river in the world, traveling 120 feet from Devils Lake to the Pacific Ocean. There is a Oregon State Park wayside there, with plenty of parking and access to several miles of sandy beach. Right next to the wayside is my favorite restaurant, Kylios. Great views of the ocean and wonderful seafood.

5. Catch Your Dinner!

There is a lot of fishing fun available in Lincoln City. Whether it's on Devils Lake (fish for trout, perch, catfish, crappie, large mouth bass), the Siletz River and the Salmon River (fish for chinook, steelhead, trout), Siletz Bay (fish for perch, crab, flounder) or deep sea fishing in the Pacific Ocean. Charters are available.

6. Shop Till You Drop!

If you need to get away from nature a bit, head to the Tanger Outlet Center.
Tanger outlet center has over 60 stores, including Reebok, Eddie Bauer, Old Navy and Pendelton Woolen Mills, an Oregon favorite.

Lincoln City is easy to get to from Portland and by driving the famous Pacific Coast Highway (US Route 101). Come visit Lincoln City, I know you'll love it.

Kenya Travel Tips - Top seven things to see and do in Kenya

Kenya is increasingly popular with foreign tourists - not surprising when you look at what the country has to offer. What are the top seven things to see and do in Kenya?

1. Going on safari

Kenya has a well-functioning system of national parks, which are the most beautiful in Africa. This is the best Kenya safari destination in the world. Masai Mara and Amboseli National Park are the most famous places of wildlife, and are characterized in the tourist highSeason (July-August and December / January). However, there are many hidden treasures for safaris are on the left.

My favorites are the majestic Mount Elgon National Park - the area around Africa, the third highest mountain - and the small but smart Saiwa Swamp National Park. Both draw few visitors, but they are of breathtaking beauty and tranquility.

2. Visit the Swahili coast

Within the coastal region of Kenya is one other. The Arabs have this part along the Indian trafficOcean from the 9th century, and this has led to the creation of the famous Swahili culture - a vibrant mix of African, Arab and Indian cultures. Many people here are Muslims, although a liberal type.

If you have the opportunity to see a show Taarab, music enticing Africans, Arabs and Indians played at weddings and other celebrations. And, of course, Kenya has 500 kilometers of beaches of white sand beach resorts with excellent and affordable, where you can eat and drink martinis directly to your Beach.

3. Visit a tribal village

In particular, the Maasai, Samburu and Turkana peoples continue to live a traditional tribal life. E 'possible to visit their villages and take a drink the tea ceremony and traditional dances to be seen. But, I ask a travel guide for a good opportunity to directly, rather than too far left of tourists visited the demoralizing high-pressure sales presentations.

4. The experience of the migration of wildebeest

Perhaps best of all Kenya> Travel advice. Every year in September-October, between half and one million wildebeest suddenly gather on the plains of the Serengeti in Tanzania, after which they migrate back in a big circle through the south of Kenya and back. This is one of the largest animal shows Earth. Some huts are strategically placed, you're right in the middle.

5. Making a balloon ride

Short balloon trips on one of the largest stations on the wildlife - mostly Masai Mara - theincreasingly popular. It is usually very early in the morning so that the first hours after sliding spend about the plains of Kenya, the best time for observing animals sunrise. We have breakfast with champagne after landing. Price about $ 400, are not cheap, though.

6. Visit Nairobi

Who is the biggest fear of Nairobi evil? It has the best reputation, but actually I like Nairobi, and if you apply some common sense precautions, nothing is more unpleasant likelyto happen. Nairobi is a very cosmopolitan city, where Africans and whites gather from all countries.

Simmers are my favorite places for a late breakfast with good coffee and newspapers, and the New Florida nightclub (dubbed the "Madhouse"), which is really quite a crazy night ... And just off the main Nairobi Nairobi National Park, so that in Nairobi, one of the few capitals in the world where you are in the bush with wild 30 minutes by taxiDrive from the city center.

7. Immerse yourself in the 'Indian Ocean

Kenya has great opportunities for diving and snorkeling, even for professional standards. The reefs in Watamu National Park, along the coast are in excellent condition. There are many very exotic fish in all colors and shapes imaginable. Fishermen are completely banned from the waters, so as not to be disturbed. Even the harmless whale sharks are regular visitors to the waters, a light for all divers.

This listtravel advice on Kenya, I have not mentioned yet that is permanently covered with ice trekking Mount Kenya, the large population of pink flamingos of Lake Nakuru, the coastal city of Mombasa with its old fortress, the island paradise of Lamu, competitions dhows and much more.