Fly Me To The Moon

In 1965 Paul C. Fisher, president of Fisher Space Pen Co., sent his pen to Houston Space Center and NASA began testing it. Astronauts had been using pencils for note taking, but the graphite used in pencils could break off and float around the cabin. This lead could become lodged in electrical switches and jeopardize their personal safety as well as the mission. The pen was put through 18 months of rigorous testing subsequently approving it for use on a trial mission in outer space. By 1968 the Fisher Space Pen was issued to astronauts for all manned space flights. It is still in use today on all American and Russian flights. Many of us were first introduced to this pen on a Seinfeld episode, "The Pen." It has also been on The Tonight Show, when Carl Reiner presented the pen on-air to Johnny Carson. It's been featured on a segment of the Travel Channel's popular series "John Ratzenberger's Made in America." The Bullet pen has been part of the permanent collection of New York's MoMA where it has been exhibited for years, having been cited as an outstanding example of "exquisite industrial design." The pen is perfect for corporate gifts because it can be laser engraved or silk-screened with a company logo or an individual's initials. It novelty and dependability insures that it is well received and appreciated by men and women alike.

The compact size of this chrome "bullet" style pen makes this pen very handy. Closed the pen is a mere 3.75 inches (95mm), and open it measures 5.25 inches (133mm.) However, it's the cartridge that's makes it different from every other ballpoint pen. The Fisher Space Pen will write in extreme temperatures (-30 degrees to +250 degrees Fahrenheit). It will also write underwater, and at any angle, even upside down. It will write on photographs, wet surfaces, and through grease. Ordinary ballpoint pens rely on gravity for ink flow. The Fisher Space Pen uses a cartridge pressurized at nearly 35 pounds per square inch. Ink is fed continuously to the tungsten carbide ball, allowing the user to write at any angle. The stainless steel precision socket prevents leaking yet delivers uniform ink flow. Evaporation, wasted ink and back leakage are eliminated. It's the perfect pen to throw into your lightweight luggage as you plan your trip. It can be used to mark a map for navigation, and it will write on coated stock golf scorecards. You can write in the rain and all other weather conditions, making it perfect for canoers, hikers, campers, fishermen and snowmobiles.

It's perfect to be kept along with your other travel accessories because of its reliability. Emergency medical services, earth and rescue personnel, ambulance paramedics, helicopter tactical retrieval units and E.R. trauma staff use it. Mountain climber's benefit from the rugged reliability and of the Space Pen as it will not be affected by any weather conditions encountered during a climb. It has been used during the Everest North Face Ski Expedition. The pen is not affected by dirt, grease, or cold weather. Law enforcement must be able to function under all operating conditions, and the FBI, U.S. Navy Seals, U.S. Armed Forces, U.S. Thunderbirds pilots, and Canadian Snowbirds 431AD Squadron use the Space Pen. It will write on carbonless paper, and through fingerprints. It is listed as "Most Versatile Pen' in the Guinness World Records. The pen is visible on rubber, leather, and other dark surfaces making it a natural for contractors, carpenters, electricians, construction and inspection personnel. The Space Pen is even used by the Jacques Cousteau Society as well as many recreational and professional scuba divers.

This is the ideal pen to tuck away in your briefcase or attache case. It will comfortably fit in smaller leathergoods such as wallets or checkbook cases. While the pen became famous because they are used in outer space, their popularity is due to their dependability. Nurses and doctors value the Fisher Space Pen when recording information in critical application. The pen will write on X-ray film and other glossy surfaces. It is even capable of recording vital signs on latex gloves without tearing the glove. The pen is also available with a neck chain as a fashion statement for the ladies. With timeless design and unparalleled dependability the Fisher space pen can accompany you to the moon and beyond.

Maxine Greco has worked in the luggage and travel industry for over 36 years. She is currently employed at Village Luggage & Gifts

The Most Secluded Island in the World

It was nonrandom that this volcanic island, located in the southern part of the Pacific ocean got such a name: those were the Dutchmen who landed here on the first day of the Easter week, in 1722.

The Easter Island, or Rapa Nui how local people call it, was discovered by the Dutch seaman Jacob Roggeveen 280 years ago and is by right named the most secluded island on our planer – the closest neighbours live 2000 km away from here. To get to Chile or Tahiti, you will have to overpass almost 4000 km while the distance between the island and the Antarctic is 6000 km. It is no wonder that there are no fences or gates here, and the Chile patrol ship comes here only twice a year: if a criminal gets to this place, he’s got nowhere to run.

This triangular-shaped island covers a 171 sq.meters area. There is not a single river or a stream here, the rain-water is accumulated in three small lakes that were formed in volcano craters.

The Easter Island is located in subtropical area, so the “tourist season” lasts here all year round. The warmest and the driest season is November to April – however, the island doesn’t have a raining season. Tourists who are going to the Easter island are always warned of rather a dangerous sun. But it is not because of the holes in the ozone layer, as one might think – the point is, the air is “too” clean, which results in such effects.

Thanks to its unique geographic location, complete seclusion and a kind of isolation from the rest of the world, the Easter Island is still surrounded with mysteries. One of these is the origin of the local people, which was partly solved by an archaeologists and a traveler Thor Heyerdahl, who swam over the Pacific ocean on a raft and proved that people could get here from South America.

Another island’s main riddle is absolutely unique giant statues that local people call moai. Some of them are 21 meters high and weigh up to 200 tons. Statues are really weird looking – they’ve got huge heads with big chins, long ears and no legs. Ancient people believed that moai guarded them and the whole earth from the evil spirits. Of course, the main question that researchers faced was how these huge colossi were moved around the island. Having done special research works, they found out that those statues have a low centre of gravity and can easily be installed by 15 men with the help of ropes. The installation of one statue takes about 2 months and the work forces of 90 people.

In 14th-17th centuries, during the period of the islands’ prosperity, there were about 20.000 people living here, who were mostly fishers and farmers. After the island was discovered by the Europeans, the number of people living here got greatly lower: some of them were killed, others were sold to slavery. After the island was annexed by Chile in 1888 almost nothing has changed in the way local people lived here. Only recently, in 1966, the island’s population got some rights. The building of an airport and rare tourists started to bring some profits. They do say that the island is still uninhabited, though, only the stone statues remind of some sort of civilization.

Nowadays you can get to the island from Chile, where special tours are organized to the Easter Island. The tours are rather expensive ones, but its hard to deny that the Easter island is one of the most desired tourist destinations.

Advantages of Staying in a Private Villa in Bali

For less than the cost of staying at a good hotel in Bali you can now enjoy the luxury of a beautiful private Bali Villa with air-conditioned bedrooms and tropical bathrooms to dream about, spacious living and dining areas and spacious terraces, a lush tropical garden with your own private swimming pool, and well-trained butler to take care of everything around the clock.

In addition to modern amenities, any villa you rent will reflect Balinese lifestyle throughout: floors and walls are made from local wood and natural stone, high roofs cover airy living and dining areas, and large garden bathrooms are full of flowers and plants. And you'll appreciate the comfort and informality you can only experience in a private home.

Instead of staying in hotel rooms (bed, two chairs, dressing table, TV set and telephone, wardrobe, small bathroom), your family will enjoy this truly Balinese experience. And you have much more space, more informality, more privacy, and more personal service than even the best hotel can provide.

You can have delicious local meals or any special diet prepared by your own cook and have them served whenever and wherever you like – in your dining room, living area, at the poolside, in your bedroom, or even in the bathroom.

Most important of all, you will really experience Bali while staying at a private villa. You're not isolated from the island and its people by a hotel environment. You're participating – and living in a Balinese atmosphere, surrounded by a relaxed, elegant and informal setting, with well trained and very friendly staff caring for your every need.

There's nothing better than this! It will be a vacation you won't forget.

About the Author

Kadek Sudarsana is the Managing Director of Natan Bali, an internet based company which creates and manages websites that are all directly related to hospitality services in Bali.

Take a Food Tour of the Usa for a Vacation With a Difference

In the modern age, travel is such a large part of people's everyday lives. In fact, given today’s fast-paced lifestyle, it's hard to imagine that not so long ago, the idea of going on vacation was a rare luxury rather than a growing necessity. And, as the travel industry across the world has boomed, so too have the number of different types of vacations people in America are taking.

These days, holidays often revolve around a theme: skiing holidays in Lake Tahoe or Colorado are common, as are shopping holidays to some of America's most famous malls. But, if you really want a travel experience with a difference, why not take a food tour of the United States – you'll find a range of culinary delights available to tickle your taste-buds!

Take a trip to the Deep South on a food travel excursion and you'll find a wealth of fine foods to sample and enjoy on your vacation. The culinary landscape of America's southern states has always formed a large part of the lifestyle of its inhabitants; and if you're embarking on a food tour of America, make sure you don't miss out on its special and unique offerings!

Taste legendary American desserts, like Pecan Pie and Mississippi-Mud Pie, as well as authentic Kentucky fried chicken. Whether you're in New Orleans, Atlanta or Austin, you'll be able to sample some of the finest Cajun and Creole cuisine in the US, as well as partake in the long Soul Food tradition! From chitterlings (pig's tripe) to Gumbo soup and Jambalay, food tourists in the Deep South are sure to enjoy an enriching vacation!

Anyone interested in embarking on food tours through the USA should also explore the culinary realms of New England on their excursions. From Massachusetts to Vermont, New England's speciality foods are known for being simple yet high quality cuisine. For instance, New Haven boasts its reputation as the creator of the hamburger - and with a history that dates back to 1895, New Haven burgers are a must-have for any American food fan.

If you're visiting Maine, make sure to sample Maine lobster - the state's most famous export worth over $70 million a year. Legend has it that the lobster industry in the region was once so prosperous that lobster was even fed to chickens! And people visiting New England today will be able to taste this special lobster in one of the many roadside lobster shacks that adorn Maine’s coastline.

If you're looking for more exciting destinations to visit on your trip around America's greatest food spots, visit San Francisco during the San Francisco Crab Season, which boasts some of the worlds best crab markets and crab festivals annually from mid-November to June. Inspired by a range of immigrant communities, be sure to taste the region’s famous Dungeness crab, which is available in a variety of forms and flavours: from Italian dishes to Chinese and Vietnamese crab recipes, food lovers will adore the range of speciality crab dishes available in San Francisco during crab season!

While you're in California, why not also sample some of the state's local produce? Local farmers markets in California are well known for a range of foods, including artichoke, avocados, goat's cheese and a range of other green produce. And why not indulge in some of California's well-known Napa Valley wine while you're on your food tour? You'll experience the best wine and food the golden state has to offer - a pleasurable experience that is sure to round off your food tour of the USA nicely.

When embarking on a food tour of the US, you’re sure to find a range of food and hotel packages to suit your palate - regardless of the destination you visit. So, why not prepare your taste-buds for an experience to savour?

About the Author:

Andrew Regan is an online, freelance journalist.

Bali Travel: The Undying Balinese Arts

The island of Bali is literally a very beautiful island situated under the equator in Indonesian Archipelago, is one of the most interesting and ultimate tourist destination in Asia. Since the first decade of the 20th century visitors have given to it several nicknames "Island of Gods" - "Island of thousand Temples" – "The Last Paradise" – and also often called "Island of Artist".

The spirit of creativity pervades everything in Balinese life, from the cultivation of the steeply-terraced rice field to the elaborate temple offerings of flowers and foods given to the gods at times of celebration. Dancing, playing the gamelan, painting and carving is as much a part of an ordinary day as working in the offices, in the fields or feeding livestock.

In ancient times, the people of the Indonesian Archipelago followed the ways of animism and ancestor worship. By around A.D. 600 however, Indian ideas and beliefs began to spread throughout Southeast Asia. Both Buddhism and Hinduism became active force on the islands of Sumatra and Java. When Islam gained control of Java in the 16th century, many Hindu princes, their followers and artisans fled to Bali. They established principalities on Bali.

The earliest art of Bali dates from this pre-Hindu era, including highly of decorative works of bronze, as well as skilled basketworks and weaving. During the Hindu era, the princes and their relatives were the patronage of the native arts of Bali, and also sustained by the guiding rituals of its religion. The palaces and temples, as political and religious center of the island, were also centers of the arts.

A prince would adorn his pavilions with the most exquisitely carved wood panels, paintings, silken materials, gilded umbrellas and would be entertained by gamelan music, dances and songs of poetical Kawi language. The opulence of the court – had its religious parallel in the lavish decoration and dances within the temples. So the courts and the temples have been receiving equal high performance in art.

This convergence of beauty and ritual explains why the arts have endured to such a great extent in Bali. Ritual demanded a continuous renewal of communion with the divine through temple celebrations. The people poured their artistic talents into preparations of these occasions. New offerings have to be made, new shrines constructed, new statues of stones and woods have to be carved, dances, music and dramas created and practiced. This kept carvers and masons constantly occupied creating new sculptures or retouching older ones.

The Balinese language has no words for “art” and “artist”. In former times there had been no need for such definitions. Art was never considered a conscious production for its own sake. Rather, it was regarded as a collective obligation to make thing beautiful. And this was always done with a definite purpose: to create beauty in service to society and religion. Thus a “figure-maker” or “picture-maker” as well as a farmer or merchant, he was called upon when his skills were needed. He neither signed his name to his work, nor received money for his labor. His prime aim was to serve his community. As was true in the olden days, the majority of Bali’s artists are highly skilled craftsmen who learned their trade by mastering the traditional forms inherited from their forefathers.

In the first decade of the 20th century, the Dutch took the island, and Bali entered a new era as a colony of the Netherlands. Western education, modern technology, magazines, and a steady tourist trade opened up a new world for many Balinese, and this widening of outlook was reflected in the arts. For the first time, craftsmen began to treat their work as art for art’s sake, experimenting in new style, themes and media. With the arrival of the Western influence, the rigid conventions of the traditional style were no longer binding. Instead of illustrating stories from the great Hindu epics, some Balinese artists began to depict scenes of everyday life and nature in their work. The present art community has two criteria: (a) a work of art is praiseworthy in the eyes of fellow Balinese, or (b) it appeals to the foreign market and is sold.

To day the traditional and modern arts can be viewed at various places: Museum Bali in Denpasar presents a commendable survey of Balinese art from prehistoric times to the early 20th century and modern arts. Werdi Budaya Arts Center in Denpasar offers exhibitions and sales of local handicrafts and hand loomed fabrics. Tohpati for fine batiks. Celuk for silver and gold works. Mas for excellent woodcarvings. Ubud is the heart of arts and cultures, home of the most talented painters. And Klungkung for the traditional paintings and silver works.

So if you are interested in arts, do not hesitate to choose this enchanting island for your Bali Vacation. It also has very nice beaches, hotels, fabulous nature’s views, friendly people and of course excellent foods. Go online and search your preferred Bali hotels or contact your reputable travel agent.

Ciao readers, my immense thank to you all.

About The Author

Made Dertha was an English and Italian tour guide for many years in Bali, writes for Bali Turista Tours where he is the Managing Director now. Bali Turista is focusing on Bali hotels and villas reservation. Just visit http://www.baliturismo.com and http://www.baliturista.com.

Travel to Indonesia - A Country of Thousands of Beautiful and Exotic Islands

Indonesia, a Country of thousands of beautiful and exotic Islands, that spark off your imagination with thoughts of fine sandy beaches, huge temple complexes, great diving and the giant dragons of Komodo. The islands of Indonesia are spread over a vast expanse of ocean and technically speaking is divided by two Continents.

Some parts of the Country can be as different from each other as black is from white. The hustle and bustle of the modern capital Jakarta is like another planet when compared to the traditional Papuan tribes of the Baliem Valley.

Jakarta - Not only is it the largest City in the Country, Jakarta is also the heartbeat. Indonesian's from all over the archipelago come to the City to try and find their fortune or just to survive. The face of the City is constantly changing due to the construction of new skyscrapers, shopping malls and hotels.

Jakarta is mainly a business and political City and not really a tourist destination, but the older colonial parts of the City are very interesting and the museums have a lot of fascinating exhibits.

Jakarta, like you would expect, is the most expensive place in Indonesia, as well as the most polluted and most congested. It can be very hard to cope with all of the hustle, dirt, crime and cost, but if you can you will find an exciting City with plenty to offer.

Kota - This is the old Town of Batavia, which was the capital of the Dutch East Indies and the best example of the colonial era in Indonesia. Though much of the old town has been destroyed or demolished over the years, some of the old Colonial buildings are still in active use, and the area has a definite Dutch feel to it.

The centre of the old Town is the pebble stone square known as Taman Fatahillah and this is the key to being able to orientate yourself around the sights of the old Town. The canal of Kali Besar is one block to the west of the square and runs alongside the Ciliwung River. This was a very prosperous area and on the west bank are some of the high class homes that date from the eighteenth Century.

The Chicken market bridge is the last remaining drawbridge from the Dutch era, it is at the north end of the Kali Besar. Buses always come by on their routes and the city train also has a stop here.

Jakarta History Museum - This museum is housed in the old town hall of Batavia, which is on the south side of Taman Fatahillah. It is a well built building, which was originally constructed in 1627 and added to in the early 1700’s. It was from here that the Dutch administered their colony, and the cities law courts were also here as well as their main prison compound.

It contains plenty of heavy, carved furniture from the colonial, as well as other memorabilia from the Dutch period. Open, 9am till 3pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Admission: 1,000Rp

Wayang Museum - This museum is also on the Taman Fatahillah, and has a great assortment of Wayang puppets. It also has examples of puppets from other Countries like Cambodia, China and India.

This building was formerly the museum of old Batavia and was built in 1912 on the site of the former Dutch church which was demolished in 1808 as the Dutchman ‘Daendel’s’ plan to rid the City of its unhealthy areas. In the downstairs courtyard, there are memorials to previous governors who were buried on site. Open, 9am till 3pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Admission: 1,000Rp

Fine Arts Museum - Built in the 1860’s, the palace of Justice building is now the Fine arts museum. It has a nice collection of contemporary paintings from prominent artists. They also have some ceramics on show from Chinese items to Majapahit offerings. Open, 9am till 3pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Admission: 1,000Rp

Gereja Sion - This church was built in 1695, and is the oldest Church in Jakarta. It is on Jl Pangeran Jayakarta near the Kota train station. The exterior of the Church is actually pretty plain but inside copper chandeliers, the original organ and the baroque pulpit makes it very appealing. Though thousands of people have been buried here there are very few tombs left remaining.

Sunda Kelapa - Just a 10 minute walk from the Taman Fatahillah, the old City port of Sunda Kelapa is full of wonderful Macassar schooners and the brightly coloured sails of these boats make for great viewing. The ships are still a vital means of transporting goods to outlying Islands.

Guides hang around the docks and for a few thousand rupiah will show you around and tell you some insightful stories. You can also take a ride out to the offshore fish market for around 5,000Rp. Admission, 250Rp to the dock area.

Maritime Museum - This is an old VOC warehouse that was built in 1645 and is by the entrance to the Sunda Kelapa. It has examples of Indonesian crafts from around the ages and has photos of the voyages from Europe to Jakarta. The building itself is well worth the visit and the lookout posts are part of the old City wall.

Just before the entrance to the museum proper, is the old watchtower that was built in 1839, it has brilliant views over the harbour. Opening hours are hit and miss, so try to find the caretaker.

National Museum - This museum, constructed in 1862, is considered the paramount museum in Indonesia, and one of the finest in South East Asia. It has a huge ethnic and relief maps of Indonesia on which you can track your travels. The museum has a variety of different cultural displays that show a diverse collection of clothing, instruments, model houses and religious items. In addition the museum has a fine collection of Chinese ceramics that even date back to the Han dynasty of the third Century.

The museum is sometimes known as the Elephant house due to the giant bronze elephant that was a gift from the King of Thailand, and that now stands outside. Open, 8.30am till 2.30pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Admission: 750Rp. Guides are around who can conduct tours in various different languages.

National Monument - This 130 metres high monument stands over Merdeka square and is Jakarta’s chief landmark. The construction was started in 1961 but was not finished until 1975, when it was officially opened by President Soeharto. At the base is the National History Museum which tells the story of the Indonesian struggle for independence. On national holidays and at the weekends the queues can be long. Open, 9am till 5pm, daily. Admission: 600Rp or 3,100Rp which includes a ride to the top.

Lapangan Banteng - Just east of Merdeka square is this nineteenth century colonial square. It has some of the best examples of Dutch colonial architecture in the whole of Jakarta. The Catholic Cathedral was built at the turn of the twentieth Century, and is opposite the principal place of worship for Jakarta’s Muslim community, the Istiqlal Mosque. To the east of the square is the Supreme Court that was built, along with the Ministry of finance, in 1809 by that man ‘Daendel’ to replace those buildings torn down.

For further travel resources, including travel articles and guides on many beautiful locations, why not visit http://www.travelllama.com you can also enter our complimentary travel draw.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Martin_Kleis

Critical, Common Sense Travel Tips

Richard Chapo

Traveling is a great way to experience new places and meet people with a different view of things. That being said, there are some common sense steps you should take to make sure your trip goes okay.

Traveling is one of those areas where euphoria can be so high you do things you would never imagine doing at home. In this case, I am talking about taking risks that can lead to disaster. I am not, in any way, suggesting you don't explore destinations and cultures, but keep in mind there is good and bad everywhere just as there is in your home town. To avoid problems, there are some basic guidelines you should follow:

1. Before jumping on that plane to exoticlandia, make sure you let someone know where you are going to be and for how long. This person should typically be a family member. Most people tell you to leave an itinerary, but I think this is a mistake. Unless you are on a tour, you will never stick to it. Instead, leave a list of countries. While on your trip, pop into an internet cafe every week to send a message of where you are and your plans for the week.

2. Your passport is like your hall pass in elementary school. Better to have died a small child then lose it. Replacing them can be a nightmare. You can expect to spend a week or more hanging around your embassy watching your valuable travel time be wasted. Make sure to make a copy of your passport before leaving and store it somewhere away from your passport.

3. Do you randomly imbibe exotic narcotics offered to you by strangers when you are at home? Probably not. So, why would you do it when you travel? Practically every country has its "party" destination. Enjoy yourself if you decide to visit it, but don't be a fool. Loaded tourists are easy targets for thieves and corrupt officials. Even if you avoid these individuals, you could get in trouble with the law. The parties in certain parts of Thailand are legendary. That being said, drug possession carries long jail sentences and occasionally the death penalty. Thai prisons are just about the last place you want to spend any time.

Traveling is a great way to leave the daily grind of life behind. Just make sure you don't also leave your common sense!

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Rick Chapo is with NomadJournals.com - makers of travel journals that make great gifts for him.

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Cheap Bahamas vacation helps you enjoy the most wonderful vacation

Who would not love to go on along vacation in the Bahamas? After all the Bahamas is one of the most attractive destinations and the very idea behind taking a vacation is to rest, relax and enjoy and spend some time with the beautiful nature. Tour and travel companies come up with different holiday packages that can be taken by an individual depending on his need. Cheap Bahamas vacation is a tour and travel offer given by tour operators for those individuals who are a little low on finances. Well just because some people are a little low on finances does not mean that they cannot go on vacation and enjoy.

The main attraction of the Bahamas is the beaches and in fact many tourists who have been to that place say that they are willing to go back again year after year just to enjoy the wonderful beaches. The white sand that is free of any litter and the unending stretch of beach give a very peaceful and serene environment to any one who goes there to rest and relax. To find the best offers given by several tour operators you can make use of the web. Almost all tour operators have a web presence and that is not all, you can go through the site of different operators and find out the one that is offering tourists the best cheap Bahamas vacation rate. Settle for that tour operator that offers you the best services at reasonable rates.



Vacationing in any place like the Bahamas or any other has become very easy these days. You do not have to go from the door of one tour operator to another to book hotels or accommodation of other kind, no matter in what corner of the world you are staying. The web provides the facility for all this and you can sit in the comforts of your home and book everything. This booking facility is available not only for booking cheap Bahamas vacation, but for any other vacation that you may take up from the tour operators. Just make sure that your tour operator is genuine and you do not kind in any kind of trouble.

Taking a cheap Bahamas vacation can in fact help you spend your dream vacation in the Bahamas Island. If you are a water sport or water activity enthusiast, then this is one holiday destination you must not miss. You can take part in many activities like snorkeling, diving, underwater exploring and fishing. The serene waters in the beach can really sooth your senses and relax you completely. If you are newly married, you can opt to go to the Bahamas to spend your honeymoon with your spouse. In fact Bahamas is an ideal destination for newly weds to enjoy the most special time of their life. Several tour companies provide cheap Bahamas vacation for newly weds who want to celebrate their honeymoon.

Well it may be that you may not get to stay in the biggest hotels and resorts in Bahamas if you take a cheap Bahamas vacation package, but you will be able to enjoy your stay there. With plenty of natural beauty surrounding you, who wants to spend lots of money and book a hotel or resort? A resort or hotel with the basic amenities will do if you can enjoy all the other things in Bahamas.

Article Directory: http://www.articlecube.com

Suzane Gray has been offering Bahama travel and vacation packages advice for quite some time. She is working as a consultant for GoBahama. To find Cheap Bahamas vacation packages, Grand bahama island,Bahamas travel package,freeport bahamas package at cheap rates that best suits your needs, visit www.gobahama.com

Choosing The Best Travel Accommodation

Most travelers spend more time in airline ticket reservations and bargains but less time in choosing the right accommodations. Thus they may end up on the wrong side of the bed during their stay.

To get the most out of your hotel accommodations, remember to book as early as possible and make your dates more flexible. Hotels that specialize business people will consider weekends as off season. Family vacationers could tap into these special packages during weekends. Primarily, you should choose your hotel based on name, amenities, features, price, packages and location.

Here are some considerations in choosing your best travel accommodations:

1. Accommodations should be family-friendly. Always ask if your hotel offers children activity areas with educational and fun activities supervised by duly-trained care-givers.

2. Your hotel should provide a swimming pool for children, daycare service, crib rental and child-proof electrical outlets.

3. Stay in a hotel that has electronic room-key cards and has a security viewer installed on their doors.

4. Make it a priority to choose a room on the upper floor.

5. If you're the one who likes to spend more time in your hotel room and the balcony, you should ask for the available amenities and the conditions of the surrounding environment.

6. Depending on whether you're on a private or business trip, ask your hotel about the availability of laundry service, hair dryers, coffee makers, newspapers, free meals, fax machine, bar, cable television, parking, shuttle service, internet connection, etc.

7. The hotel property layout and its location may speak more of its surrounding environment. Noisy locations such as construction on adjacent property, car traffic and noisy waterfalls are not specified on hotel flyers. So be sure to ask about it.

8. Beautifully landscaped surroundings with trees, flowers and inner courts also enhance your travel pleasure. Moreover, gift shops and restaurants all add up to a wonderful travel experience.

9. The location of your hotel with respect to main attraction is equally important. It could save you money on taxi and bus fare.

10. Make sure that the room service is provided 24 hours a day.

11. Check out the room itself. Is it brightly colored or classical? It sets the mood of your travel.

In order to get the most out of your travel, whether for business or family vacations, be sure to know everything about the hotel you are planning to check in to. Ask friends and relatives who have been there. Don't just depend on the hotel's webpage which is undoubtedly biased. Having to stay in a hotel which you don't like could ruin your trip.

About the Author

James Yee enjoys travelling and photography. His useful information on travel is available in http://www.yeearticles.com/travel/

One of the Wonders of the Natural World

The world s largest coral reef is the Great Barrier Reef which composes of roughly 3000 individual reefs and 900 islands. The reef is located in the Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland s in the northeast of Australia. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the wonders of the natural world it is the world s largest coral reef ecosystem. It was declared a World Heritage in 1981.

More than two million people visit the reef each year generating more than 2 billion Austailian Dollors in tourism dollars. Most of the visitors come to go out on the reef.

A scourge of the reef is bleaching where the corals have died in large numbers. This phenomenon is not exclusive to Queensland s Great Barrier Reef, but has been observed on reefs throughout the world. It is thought the bleaching has been caused by rises in water temperature, although the evidence is not conclusive.

Another one of the dangers to the habitat is the Crown of Thorns starfish. Since the 1960s the Crown of Thorns have been destroying the corals which make up the reef.

The Reef supports a diversity of life, 30 species of whales, porpoises and dolphins, have been recorded in the Great Barrier Reef. Six species of sea turtle come to the reef to breed Olive Ridley, Green Sea Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Leatherback Sea Turtle, Loggerhead Sea Turtle and Flat Back Turtles. Over 200 species of birds live on the Reef, including the Roseate Tern and White bellies Sea Eagle. More than 1500 species of fish live on the reef, including the, Red Bass, Clownfish, Red Throat Emperor, and several species of Snappers and Coral Trout. 400 species of corals, both soft corals and hard coral are found on the reef.

Due to its vast, warm clear waters and its accessibility from the floating guest facilities called live aboards, the reef is a very popular destination for the tourists, especially scuba divers. Many cities along the Queensland coast offer boat trips to the reef on a daily basis. Several continental islands have been turned into holiday resorts.

Townsville and Cairns are the largest of these coastal cities with populations of approximately 150,000 each. Unlike most reef environments worldwide, the Reef is the only one where the water catchments area is a home to the industrialised urban areas and where extensive areas of coastal lands and rangelands have been used for agricultural and pastoral purposes. Author Resource:- Douglas Scott writes for A Car Hire Specialist. and is a free lance writer for The Villa Rental Site

Let Yourself Be Pampered On Luxury Cruise Lines

No matter which cruise line you sail on, you can find a luxury cruise experience. Most cruise lines offer some luxuries for just about any budget, so you don't necessarily have to spend millions of dollars or be rich to enjoy one. Of course, every cruise has various pricing packages and if you want a larger stateroom rather than a cabin, you're going to pay more. The same goes for amenities.

Some cruise lines offer an around the world luxury cruise. Now, these can cost twenty thousand dollars or more, but for many people who've saved up all their lives for the experience of a lifetime, money's no object. Several different cruise lines offer more luxurious appointments than others, and cost will also depend on your departure and destination points, as well as your length of journey options. The Carnival Cruise luxury cruise line has very nicely appointed and offers fine services for the budget minded traveler, though some of their cruises aren't much cheaper than those charged by a more elegant line. Holland-America and Crystal Cruise lines offer longer journeys and more exotic destinations, and sightseeing packages, and so are higher priced. But if you're in the mood to be spoiled and pampered, remember that you get what you pay for.

A luxury cruise line sets sail to just about anywhere in the world. A popular luxury cruise line like Crystal Cruise and Holland-America offer passengers luxury accommodations both at sea and on land. Passengers can enjoy four-course dinners, highbrow entertainment and plush staterooms if they wish. This type of luxury cruise line also offers the causal traveler the option to hop aboard from a number of ports of call, and for a few thousands dollars, about the same that one would pay to sail from Los Angeles, California to Alaska, a passenger can enjoy the luxury not available to them otherwise while enjoying a week or so on one of the pricier luxury lines.

A luxury cruise line such as Cunard, which has been around since the early 1900's, offers just as many amenities as the Crystal and Holland-America lines. Other popular luxury cruise lines include the Princess, Celebrity, Regent and Princess cruises. Passengers are able to choose exotic as well as more local destinations, such as Hawaii and Alaska for moderately priced voyages that don't skimp on luxury. If you want high-class service, exotic destinations and ports of call that many cruise lines can't access, check out the prices for various luxury cruise lines. They're not really much more expensive than others.

When considering a luxury cruise, shop around for sailing destinations and schedules and then determine how much money you want to spend. There are over a dozen luxury cruise lines with reputations of excellent service to choose from. Remember that luxury is more than a soft bed and a fancy dinner. Luxury is an ideal, and everyone has his or her own idea of what luxury is. Taking a luxury cruise adventure to Alaska or Hong Kong can be the experience of a lifetime, and one that shouldn't be missed if at all possible.

Author Info:

Chonticha Marijne: Ready to embark on your dream luxury cruise? Find out more about starting your luxury cruise right at http://theCoolestCruises.com/luxurycruise.html.

Why You Must Visit These Top Five African Safari Destinations!

Going on African safari would be the adventure of a lifetime for many. Africa, despite it's political unrest and problems over the last century is still a mysterious and beautiful part of the planet and to see it once will provide lifetime memories. But what part of Africa do you want to see?

The great thing about African safaris is you can choose from either a limited number of destinations to visit or depending on your budget, can see it all from top to bottom. So what are the most popular African safari destinations?

Serengeti

The Serengeti is a great year round destination. Tanzania has plenty of attractions but it's the Serengeti which provides Africa in all it's glory. Big cat lovers won't be disappointed whether it's lions, leopards or cheetahs you want to see but there is a multitude of wildlife on offer in this special part of the world.

Okavango Delta

Remember the "Jungle Jim" adventures. When you visit the Okavango Delta you'll feel like you are in another world. Why? This virtually untouched and untamed part of Africa provides safari lovers with just about everything they have dreamed of about deep and darkest Africa. From fauna to flora to water, the Okavango Delta has it all and quite literally, could satisfy all your safari requirements.

Kruger National Park

South Africa's Kruger National Park is a vast and spectacular piece of real estate. Wildlife abounds here but the great thing about this part of Africa is the variety it offers visitors. It's just about everyone's favorite African safari destination as there are endless types of safaris you can choose from. Whether you want to take a self-drive safari or a walking safari; or maybe get off the beaten track a little, Kruger National Park can provide the setting. Kruger has many well organised safari options and is an ideal destination for the whole family.

Masai Mara

Like the Serengeti, Kenya's Masai Mara is teeming with wildlife. Even better still, it has it's own unique appearance. The migration of wild beast during the second half of the year from the Serengeti could just about make "the wonders of the world" list and many veteran African safari seekers will make more than one trip to this part of Africa just to witness this spectacle.

Victoria Falls

Visiting Victoria Falls is like viewing a part of Heaven. The fact it's such a spectacular viewing experience is one thing but the more adventurous of us have the opportunity to try activities of a more daring nature. Victoria Falls combines everything nature has to offer in one convenient location and is a must see for students of photography.

These are just some of the many highlights an African safari has to offer. Seeing all five in one trip would be ideal but visiting just one or two of these areas will whet your appetite for more. Beware, it's addictive and the "danger" is you could very well become an African safari "junkie."

About the Author:

Dean Caporella is a professional broadcaster. If you're planning an African Safari then don't miss this report on the top five safari destinations! Plus, read the latest african safari related news and reviews at:http://www.african-safaris-site.com

Cheap Hawaiian Cruise Vacations - Your Ticket to Paradise

Hawaii is one of the best and most unique places on the planet earth. Getting a great price for a cruise to paradise is even better. Armed with a little information, you should be able to get the best price to the best place: Hawaii.

First you have to decide what port you want to sail from. Cruises leave from Vancouver often at the end of the Alaskan cruise season, and from Mexico at the beginning of cruise season. The cruise lines want the ships to be full as they make this necessary journey. Other ports are Los Angeles and San Diego. Or you can fly to the islands and then depart from Honolulu and return there.

You need to know what cruise lines provide cruises and when. They all vary. Norwegian Cruise Lines, and Princess Cruises sail year round. Carnival and Royal Caribbean provide cruises in April, September and October as they change cruise routes. Celebrity sails in March, April, and September to December. Holland American cruises are available January through April and then again in October to December.

Your travel may need to include a flight from your starting point to any of the ports to catch the ship. Often an online travel agency can provide you with the cheapest airfare. This trip to the most remote islands in the world is a perfect time to take advantage of the packaging that an online travel agency can do. Because of their large buying power, they are able to get reduced rates, and often by bundling your air fare and cruise together you can get the cheapest and best deals.

The cheapest airline tickets are often offered on Tuesday evening to Wednesday morning, when they check and change rates. Decide approximately when you want to go and from where and then watch the prices. By doing a little research and then checking often you can get the best deal possible. I love it when it all comes together!

Using the internet is a great way to find the best cruise prices available with the least amount of effort. You can book your cruise at any of the major cruise lines and get the cruise you've always dreamed of. Don't forget to check out all the fun activities and excursions to enjoy on your perfect cruise vacation.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elaine_Lince

A Carnival Cruise? It's a 24/7 Party!

Sometimes you just want to have fun! If there’s any place on earth that can guarantee you fun (24/7), it’s a Carnival cruise. Imagine boarding a floating resort decked out with amenities designed purely to bring a smile to your face. You will surrender immediately to relaxation, laughter and excitement. Whatever your pleasure, a Carnival cruise will not disappoint you.

Even the most die-hard clubber will relish the range of venues on board. Not only can you party hard until the wee hours of the morning, but you don’t have to worry about being pulled over and breathalyzed on your way home. And don’t stick to your Cosmopolitans and Manhattans or your favorite beer; venture into a world of elaborately garnished, fruity concoctions and a range of imported beers that will tempt even the most jaded taste buds. Dance the night away at costume parties on a Carnival cruise, where you will need to come up with some kind of disguise using whatever you’ve brought in your suitcase. Play ‘guess who’ with other guests whom you may have met in a swimsuit (just hours earlier).

Theme nights are big deals on a Carnival cruise. Sometimes they’re based on the hit movie of the day, such as the latest James Bond flick or action adventure. You may even hit the jackpot and have a celebrity appear (in person) to drive the theme home.

When you need to relax and chill out, you certainly won’t be bored. Even couch surfing is more fun on a Carnival cruise. Satellite TV beams an extraordinary array of channels to the ship so you’ll never miss an important game or the latest news. Enjoy a cold beverage while you lounge around and build up your energy reserves because the next party is never too far away.

If shopping is your thing, Carnival cruise ships resemble sailing malls, offering duty-free stores for unbeatable prices on luxury goods. Stock up on your favorite perfume or discover a new one. Try some extravagant jewelry on for size. With almost everything else covered on board, shopping sprees can be irresistible. Souvenirs are a must but it’s probably best that you buy them on shore. They are more likely to be authentic, hand-made representations of the local wares.

Also, try your luck in the Carnival cruise ship casino. These are not inferior gambling lounges. Up-to-date slot machines, beautifully appointed gaming tables and expert croupiers combine to provide an experience that matches any that you’ll find in Las Vegas. The hustle and bustle, ringing bells and cheers of delight are no different here than in any landlocked casino.

You won’t have any problem satisfying your hunger on a Carnival cruise. A late night pizza and beer is easy to find, as is champagne cocktails and canapés. Enjoy a mid-morning cappuccino and Danish while you spot for seagulls, or feast on wicked desserts after lunch and dinner. When you start to feel guilty, take a jog around the various decks or build up a sweat on a treadmill, cross-trainer or rowing machine as you look out to sea.

Speaking of sweat, there are saunas and hot tubs to help relax you even further. A day spa with a full menu of irresistible treatments will help you look your very best each day, no matter how much you party!

Add to all of that, comedy and cabaret performances, art auctions, ping pong, blackjack, cooking classes, movies, temporary tattoos, piano bars, karaoke and belly dancing instruction. You’ll soon agree that a Carnival cruise is the best idea for a party that lasts for days. Also, don’t forget the shore excursions and the exciting things you can see and do while away from the ship.

Known as a “fun ship”, a “party boat” and a “floating party”, a Carnival cruise is ideal for birthdays, graduation rewards, like-minded people and partying your heart out!

Linda Woods is a freelance writer and radio talk show host with a focus on healing, self-help and empowerment. Intention is everything. Set your intention to take time for yourself and have fun. Get the latest information on cruising at http://www.takethatcruise.com Be sure to check out our carnival cruise pages.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Woods

Ten Mistakes When Taking A Cruise

By Fred Tutwiler

It’s a shame to lay out $250 - $2,500 on a dreamy cruise vacation only to encounter unnecessary mishaps and inconveniences. So, in an effort to minimize the likelihood of a bump in the road to your perfect vacation, here are some common potholes that you can avoid.

Mistake #1: Not Making Your Luggage Distinctive. At the end of your cruise, your luggage will be placed in a huge room with THOUSANDS of pieces of luggage, probably in some designated area based on the color of a luggage tag provided by the ship. No matter how familiar you think you are with your own luggage, it’s amazing how well your bags will blend in with the mass of cargo surrounding them. Having a quick, easy way to identify your luggage will be a major relief, especially if it gets misplaced.

BUT, that isn’t the main reason to make your luggage stand out. You will be entering this cavernous room with a couple thousand other people, some of whom stayed up all night partying. They are going to be impatient to get their bag and get out and there is a fairly good chance that their vision isn’t so good. If your bag looks like their bag, it could be a goner. And, if a stranger does take your luggage it could be hours, even days, before you get it back.

Do something durable and noticeable to your luggage so that it not only is recognizable to you, but also let’s bleary-eyed fellow travelers know that your bag is not their bag. Put stickers on it, paint a day-glo streak around it, sew a teddy bear onto the outside… just make sure it stands out.

Mistake #2: Not Researching Shore Excursions Beforehand. It should come as no surprise that cruise line advertising folks have the ability to describe each and every shore excursion as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Of course, no cruise is complete without shore excursions and many of them are absolutely wonderful chances to do things you would never do otherwise. But, be smart here. It’s okay to get hoodwinked into thinking that palm trees do sway all day long and that sand feels like silk under your feet. But, it’s a whole ‘nother thing to be looking forward to that perfect, serene afternoon on a remote beach only to find out you have 500 friends, some with young kids, crowding around you and bumping into your beach chair while vendors hawk everything from coconut shells to t-shirts.

Before you commit, read some reviews, talk to the cruise ship shore excursion folks, ask fellow passengers, do some thinking. Most cruise ships have a “No Refund” policy on shore excursions, but don’t be afraid to ask for one if your experience is truly unacceptable. Better still, find out what you’re getting before you go. Many (if not most) shore excursions are just great and you’ll be happy you went. But cover your stump and you’ll be glad you did.

Mistake #3: Runaway Bar Tabs. Unless you specifically choose a package that includes it, your bar tab is NOT included in the “all inclusive” part of your cruise. Adding to the bite is the ubiquitous 15% gratuity that gets added to every purchase you make on board a ship.

I could suggest that you drink less, but that’s just plain dumb! You’re on a cruise! So, pay attention to how much you drink. Those cute little umbrellas drinks that come in a stunning canary-yellow cup will cost you about twice what a basic cocktail costs. Cruise ship booze is already costly enough; you don’t need to help them out by spending more for a cup that you’ll stash in a closet when you get home.

Cruise ships have a policy against bringing alcohol on board, but the policy is very loosely enforced if you don’t flaunt it. In other words, don’t strap a handle onto a case of Budweiser and check it as baggage or load up your carry-on bag with bottles of Wild Turkey. Discreetly packed airline bottles of booze or cans of beer will probably go unnoticed. Don’t try to sponsor a frat party, but you can definitely help yourself out a bit.

You are allowed to bring your own wine on board if you plan to drink it at dinner, though you are charged a “corking fee”. And, you can also bring a small stash of non-alcoholic beverages (soda, water, etc) with no problem. You should definitely bring some water, especially if you’re cruising in warm climates.

Mistake #4: Ignoring the Fury of the Sun Gods. Sun Burn treatments are the fourth most popular reason that people on cruises visit the ship’s infirmary. (The first three are: 1) bumps and bruises, 2) indigestion, 3) seasickness). Once you’re burned, there isn’t much anyone can do for you except try to alleviate the pain. (My favorite treatment for that is something called “Traumeel”. You can’t find it in the drugstore, but most health food places will have it.)

If you’re cruising in the winter months (Nov – Feb), you don’t have as big a problem. Even when you are in the sub-tropics, and even though your skin probably hasn’t seen sun for several months, the sun is hitting you at an angle and that makes all the difference. You still need to be careful, but you have more leeway.

In the spring and summer months, when the sun is overhead, you can get burned in as little as an hour, especially in the afternoon hours. Some silly people forgo the sunscreen because they want to make sure they get a tan. Not a good idea. Start your sunbathing session with at least 15 SPF (30 if you haven’t been in the sun, with extra protection on your lips). As you get closer to your end time, use less SPF. Even with a good sun blocker, your friends and co-workers will still know that you’ve been out in the sun.

Hats are a serious plus if you are in sunburn territory. Most people don’t put sunscreen on their heads, and so the part of your body that is getting the most direct rays for the longest period of time remains unprotected. Visors don’t protect your skull; you need some type of covering.

Mistake #5: No First Aid Kit. As previously noted, there are several reasons that passengers end up wasting time (and sometimes money) visiting the infirmary. You may not be able to avoid all mishaps, but you can prepare for the lesser blunders. By the way, all of this applies double if you’re traveling with kids!

Bumps and Bruises. The biggest reason people visit the ship’s doctor probably has something to do with mixing booze, slippery surfaces, metal railings and the rolling motion of the ship. For most of your injuries, the right size band-aid and a good analgesic crème will do the trick. A simple travel or camping first-aid kit will have what you need.

Indigestion. One of the drawbacks of having such constant access to all that wonderful rich food that cruise ships are famous for is that people eat it. And eat it. And eat some more. Unless you are a strict disciplinarian, you can expect to consume about two or three times your normal food quantity in an average day. Add to that the steady consumption of alcohol that is a hallmark of cruising and voila! Indigestion. Take along some Alka Seltzer, some Pepto Bismol and sum type of antacid tablet, like Tums or Rolaids. All of these are available in tablet form. Some ships stores will have some of this, but not always and if you need it in the middle of the night you’re out of luck.

Seasickness. The best treatment is prevention. After you get it, well… yuck! Check out the various forms of Dramamine that are now available, including pills and patches. The directions will tell you how much lead time before you hit the waves you need to get the maximum effect. You can also get acupressure wrist bands that work really well with some people.

One of the best treatments I’ve ever seen for treating seasickness once it hits you is Coke and soda crackers – lots of both. Some people say that 7-Up works also, but I think there is something in the caffeine in Coke that helps the whole process. If you are feeling sick, your cabin is the worst place to be unless the weather topside is really bad. Being able to get fresh air and see the horizon helps to trigger the brain sensors that calm seasickness.

Headaches. We all know that booze can make your head scream for mercy, but so can sun and lots of new food. If you’re not used to heavy carbs in your diet and you scarf up lots of pastries, ice creams or gourmet desserts, your body can trigger the same symptoms it does when detoxing from too much alcohol. And, if you experience bumps, cuts or sunburn a pain reliever is a good thing. Have a supply of different types of pain reliever. Depending on the reason for your pain, aspirin may not work as well as Tylenol or Ibuprofen in a given circumstance. (Do I need to remind you to read the label and follow the directions?)

Mistake #6: What? No Camera? A Picture Really Is Worth A Thousand Words. It’s hard to imagine, but some people will actually take the trip of their dreams and not take a camera. Or, they’ll take a camera, but they won’t keep it with them. Don’t do that. If you have a digital camera, use it, use it, use it. If you don’t have a digital camera, spring for about three or four disposable ones. And be sure to take you camera to the Life Boat Drill. You’ll know why when you get there.

A side bar to this camera thing is the Photo-ops that you have all over the ship. There will be dozens of them on your cruise – when you’re boarding, when you’re dining, when you’re getting off the ship, at the pool – at times it will seem like some one is taking your picture every time you turn around. You are, of course, free to decline. But I recommend that you give it a shot. Yes, these photos can be goofy, even cheesy, but they can also be a lot of fun. Plus, you just might end up with the best shot of the cruise. Some of the settings are outright elegant, rivaling what you would find at a studio. It’s a great way to get a nice formal picture for your living room or to send to your family, and there’s no sitting fee!

Mistake #7: Buying From Street Vendors. Where ever you go on your cruise, once you step ashore you will be approached (accosted?) by local folks trying to sell you something. I’m not talking about the shops and makeshift kiosks you may find, I’m talking about the guys selling Cuban cigars out of their trunks, or pirated CDs out of a cardboard box.

Your best bet, unless you’ve been there and really know the score, is to just say NO. Regardless of how appealing the offer, just say NO. Most of the products are very low quality and you have no way to check it out before you buy. I know of people who bought CD cases with no CDs inside, watches that didn’t work, Cuban cigars purchased in the local drugstore, “handmade” jewelry that came out of bubble gum machines, the list is endless. And this applies SIXTEEN FOLD if some local guy tries to sell you some pot.

In most ports of call frequented by American-based vessels, this street traffic is actually illegal. You probably won’t get into trouble, but why risk it? Save your money for the honest locals and their little shops that are going to sell you watches that do work, they just fall apart in a few weeks.

Mistake #8: Thinking You’ll Save Money “In Town”. One of the charming aspects of cruising is the ritual of visiting the local markets and shops. This is truly a fun experience and you can find all manner of unique and special items, but you probably won’t find any real bargains. There are bargains to be found, but you really need to know what you’re looking for and what it’s worth in the US. Don’t be cynical about it. It’s all part of the experience. Somehow, buying a wooden giraffe in Grand Turk is better than buying the same wooden giraffe at Pier 1 Imports, even if you pay a little more. Go figure.

You actually can save money when you buy liquor or tobacco products, but it might not be as good a deal as it first seems. Most ports have what are called “duty free” shops which means that there was no “duty” (i.e. import tariffs) paid on the products and so they are cheaper to sell in that country. The same applies to diamonds and other fine jewelry. The challenge is knowing what an item is actually worth. Just because these guys saved on the import fees doesn’t mean they’re passing the saving on to you. Also keep in mind that you are supposed to declare to US customs any purchases you make in a foreign country. Duty Free in Nassau doesn’t mean it’s duty free when you come back to the US. There are certain exemptions for personal items, but if you shell out some big bucks, you might lose the saving when you pay the US import fees.

So, don’t be a miser. Spend freely. Do some Christmas shopping. Spread your money around the local economy and have fun doing it. Just remember, these guys are in the business of selling stuff to foreign tourists. They know where the money is coming from and they know how to keep as much of it as they can.

Mistake #9: Sticking Around The Port. Yes, ships are safe in the harbor, but that’s not what ships are built for. Most ports of call, especially when the call is for a day or less, are set up to provide the ships passengers with a particular experience. They accomplish this by making their ports as visitor-friendly as possible. The experience of Mexico that you get right outside the port in Cozumel is decidedly different than the experience of Mexico on the other side of the island. Around the port, all manner of business are set up to appeal to a particular comfort-zone and a particular economy.

But, often, just a few miles from the port, you can have a completely different experience. If you travel to Grand Turk, for example, you can spend a delightful afternoon at the resort-like environment of Margaritaville. The beach is well-maintained, though a bit crowded. There is a huge beautiful pool with lots of palm trees and man-made waterfalls. A beer will cost you about $6 and a burger will be about $8.

But a short taxi ride to the old downtown area will take you to a much more authentic location. At least for the time being. You can stroll crowded, dusty streets; see skinny dogs shuffling through garbage cans and have a local beer and piece of fried chicken for about $3.75 at one of the local pubs. Sure, the pub would never pass an American food inspection and you may have to do without air conditioning. But the experience can be wonderful. You won’t get that experience staying close to the port.

Of course, you want to be safe and you want to be able to get back to your ship before it sales, so keep all that in mind. But, there is a whole universe of color, sound, smells and people that don’t ever get to the port and it’s worth the trouble to find it.

Mistake #10: Not Preparing For the Journey Home. Sooner or later (it will seem much too soon), your cruise will come to an end and you’ll have to return to the land of making your own bed and cooking your own food. The journey home is often an irritating necessity and something to endure as quickly as possible. But, if you rush back into the reality you left behind, it’s kind of like a diver coming to the surface too quick after a deep dive. Your mind and body will resist.

If possible, do something fun on the way home. Stay an extra night in a hotel or visit a landmark or even a theme park. At the very least, stop at a nice restaurant for a leisurely lunch or dinner. A quiet picnic (even with fast food) at a rest area can be a perfectly delightful way to transition home.

Here’s a couple of things to do to make your return less stressful and hurried.
• If you’re driving, fill up with gas before you go to the port. Make sure that, when you leave, you don’t have to stop until you want to.
• When you have breakfast on your last morning, take some pastries with you, or even make yourself an egg sandwich. If you thought to bring a thermos with you, fill up on coffee or juice for the ride home.
• Leave some bottles of water in your car. Many bus companies will allow you to leave some personal items on the bus when you get to the port, so include some water and a pillow.
• Find out what the weather is back home. I once stood shivering in 40 degree weather outside the airport in a pair of shorts and an aloha shirt. Hey, it was 85 degrees when I left Puerto Rico that morning!
• Take the next day off. If you are returning to port on a weekend, good. If not, schedule the time off before you leave. Or call in sick. You’ll be SOOOOOOOO glad you did.

A Final Suggestion.

Keep up with all of the information documents you got on the cruise – daily ships newsletter, shore excursion price list, etc. When you get home, file all this in a folder and then use if for reference material for yourself or someone else the next time a cruise is planned. And before your forget, write down all the things you wish you’d thought of and that you wish you had known. Make a complete list and stash it with the other cruise information you brought back.

Happy Cruising!

Fred Tutwiler is a best-selling author and consultant who spends as much time as possible cruising the Caribbean. His book First Time Cruiser's Guide., is a detailed look at how to make the most of your Caribbean cruise vacation.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Fred_Tutwiler