Posted on

Egypt Travel Guide

Planning for a vacation? Tired of your daily routine and want a break? In such cases, you have landed on the right page. Today we are going to guide you to travel to one of the best locations in the world. And the place is none other than “Egypt”. Egypt offers magnificent landscapes like cities, oases, deserts, beaches, ancient obelisks, and modern hotels.

Best time to visit Egypt

The best time to visit Egypt is between October and April when temperatures are pretty cool, but still, there is a pleasant heat all over the country. This makes exploring the busy streets of Cairo, visiting the Pyramids in the desert, and exploring ancient Pharaonic tombs more comfortable and thrilling.

The summer season between May to September is hot, although the high temperatures are relieved by the dry air in the atmosphere, air conditioning, far fewer visitors, and lower prices. This means summer is still a suitable season for your trip. There also tends to be a bit of a breeze on the Nile, making a river cruise a good romantic choice during the evenings.

Best places to visit in Egypt

Pyramids of Giza, the last surviving of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Pyramids Giza are one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. Built as tombs for the mighty Pharaohs and guarded by the enigmatic Sphinx, Giza’s pyramid complex has awed travelers down through the ages and had archaeologists (and a fair few conspiracy theorists) scratching their heads over how they were built for centuries.

Luxor’s Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings, famed for the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the Memorial Temple of Hatshepsut, the Nile-side town of Luxor in Upper Egypt has a glut of tourist attractions. This is ancient Thebes, the power base of the New Kingdom pharaohs, and home to more sights than most can see on one visit.

Islamic Cairo, the atmospheric, narrow lanes of the capital’s Islamic Cairo district are full of mosques, madrassas (Islamic schools of learning), and monuments dating from the Fatimid through to the Mameluke eras. This is where you’ll find the labyrinth shopping souk of Khan el-Khalili, where coppersmiths and artisans still have their tiny workshops, and stalls are laden with ceramics, textiles, spice, and perfume.

Aswan, Egypt’s most tranquil town is Aswan, set upon the winding curves of the Nile. Backed by orange-hued dunes, this is the perfect place to stop and unwind for a few days and soak up the chilled-out atmosphere. Take the river ferry across to Elephantine Island and stroll the colorful streets of the Nubian villages. Ride a camel to the desert monastery of St. Simeon on the East Bank. Or just drink endless cups of tea on one of the riverboat restaurants, while watching the lateen-sailed feluccas drift past.

Abu Simbel, even in a country festooned with temples, Abu Simbel is something special. This is Ramses II’s great temple, adorned with colossal statuary standing guard outside, and with an interior sumptuously decorated with wall paintings. Justly famous for its megalithic proportions, Abu Simbel is also known for the incredible feat, which saw the entire temple moved from its original setting — set to disappear under the water because of the Aswan dam — during the 1960s in a massive UNESCO operation that took four years.

Do you need vaccines to travel to Egypt?

Yes, there are basic requirements for a few vaccines if you want to travel to Egypt. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Egypt: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, and influenza.

Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travelers

Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available

Typhoid – Food & Water – Shot lasts 2 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in the refrigerator.

Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High-risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals.

Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) – Various Vectors – Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended.

TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –Wounds & Airborne – Only one adult booster of pertussis is required.

Chickenpox – Direct Contact & Airborne – Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox.

Shingles – Direct Contact – Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles.

Pneumonia – Airborne – Two vaccines were given separately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both.

Influenza – Airborne – Vaccine components change annually.

Meningitis – Airborne & Direct Contact – Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students.

Polio – Food & Water – Required if arriving from a country with polio transmission. Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.

What to pack when traveling to Egypt?

when it comes to packing your bags for a trip to Morocco some essential items that you shouldn’t miss out on are –

Passport, Phone charger / portable phone charger, Euros, EU adapters, Flip flops (for the hostel bathrooms), Water bottle, Socks, Underwear, Sun cream, Medicines/painkillers, Any paperwork you may need.

Do’s and Don’ts in Egypt

Do’s

Always pay respect to the monuments and archaeological sites of tge country, don’t scrape or sit on them. To maintain a proper dress code, especially women must not wear body exposing fancy dresses. Drink a lot of water to escape from dehydration due to the heat. Do carry Egyptian currency with you because credit cards will not be available at many places.

Don’ts

Don’t forget to take your camera as you will have great chances to take good photographs. Don’t go roaming in the desert without a proper guide as it may be risky. Don’t miss out on sound and light shows as you can’t find them anywhere else in the world.

Posted on

Bangladesh Travel Guide





Best time to visit

The country experiences a transition season during March and April that attributes to winter and more pleasant climate conditions. So it is considered that around March and April is the best time to visit Bangladesh.

Best places to visit in that country

1.              Saint Martin Island

It is the only coral island of Bangladesh which offers attractions. The water around on this island is emerald green that always invites everyone to join for a relaxing bath. It is a quiet, beautiful beach that offers extraordinary scenarios to the visitors. The tourists can enjoy and experience a lot of the pleasant and fascinating activities here like, exploring the sandy beach, scuba diving, chera dwip, and also you can enjoy their delicious local fresh seafood.

2.              Sundarban

The Sundarbans mangrove forest is one of the largest such forests in the world. The area is known for its wide range of wildlife, including 260 bird species, semi-aquatic tigers greatly known as the Bengal tiger, and other threatened species such as the estuarine crocodile and the Indian python. If you love more thrill while doing adventure then Sundarban highly recommends to you.

3.      Rangamati

Rangamati is covered with green hills, lakes, and rivers. Rangamati is considered the Lake City of Bangladesh because of the breathtaking view of Kaptai Lake. The Kaptai Lake with its splendid setting of luxuriant green and landscape and scenic greatness makes the tourist retreat. The natural beauty and fresh air will give you amazing feelings, there are a lot of beautiful spots in Rangamati such as Tribal Museum, Shuvolong Falls, Hanging Bridge, Rajban Bihar Pagoda, Kaptai National Park, Chakma Royal Palace, Peda Ting Ting, and DC Bungalow Area. The culture and various traditions in this place will give you an exciting experience. The beauty of the hilly areas, lake, and greeny location will provide an indescribable feeling to go very near to nature.

4.              Sylhet





Sylhet is one of the oldest cities in Bangladesh, that’s why this city encounters a number of tourists visit every year. The city is well known for its tropical forests and tea gardens.  This place will let you experience visiting the Khasi Tribe, a tribe that is ruled by women and you can dress up in local attire. You can also experience camp on the riverbank, having a boat trip, and also a local cooking class. Sylhet is also known as the city of Saints, with the mausoleum of the great saint Hazrat Shah Jalal.

 

 

  1. Dhaka

 

Visit Bangladesh without visiting Dhaka is incomplete. Dhaka is the largest and also the capital city of Bangladesh.  Dhaka has many interesting sites to visit from Munghal to Colonial. When you want to know about Dhaka city, it is recommended to explore the back-streets of Dhaka city. Some places in this old city carry the history of the hundred years, so while walking you could also take a picture in the street for it has had beautiful views. There are a lot of best and amazing things and places to experience in Dhaka.

 

  1. Chittagong Hills-Tracts

 

Chittagong Hill-Tract is naturally a beautiful place. It is also home to many tribal groups of Bangladesh. In the Chittagong Hill Tracts, there are many pleasant places such as natural hill, landscape, natural lakes, inherent view, inherent river, and there tribal and indigenous culture, traditions, lifestyles, religion, and more. This is one of the perfect choices to go to for the tourist who loves does adventure, and who adore nature.

Do you need vaccine to travel?

Yes, vaccines are recommended or required for when you are entering other countries; Vaccines protect travelers from serious diseases. The health care recommends that you must do vaccines for the safety of everyone.

 

How to stay safe?

 

  • Women travelers should always dress modestly to respect local culture. If you’re travelling by bus, avoid travelling at night, particularly if you are alone.
  • Keep valuables hidden and well concealed from others.
  • Keep your bags and belongings on you at all times when riding local transport.
  • Avoid falling asleep on short-distance crowded buses.
  • Avoid flashing money around be cautious when you open your wallet in markets.
  • Hold bags in front of you and don’t place them on the ground when you are in restaurants or street stalls
  • Keep a watchful eye on your things while travelling.

 

What to pack when traveling?

  Here are some essential you need to pack when travelling

  • Passport
  • Phone charger / portable phone charger
  • Euros
  • Chargers and Adaptors or Universal Power Adopter
  • Day pack
  • Flip flops for the hostel bathrooms
  • Water bottle
  • Socks
  • Power bank
  • Hat
  • Camera
  • Comfortable shoes/Sandals
  • Underwear
  • Sun cream
  • Medicines / painkillers
  • Any paperwork you may need

 

Do’s and don’ts in that country?

Do’s

  • Ask permission before taking a picture
  • Pay respect to the locals.
  • Dress decently; locals are not accustomed to western dress up.
  • Be respectful to the elders.
  • Drink battle water only.
  • Always take off your shoes while visiting Mosques and Temples.
  • Use right hand to give and receive.
  • Ask cell phone in local in case you are in trouble.

 

Don’ts

  • Do not criticize or joke about anything that may offend a Bangladeshi’s national.
  • Don’t underestimate the locals.
  • Don’t use your left hand to pay anyone or to give anything
  • Ladies must not smoke in public
  • Don’t take alcohol in public.
  • Drunkenness in public
  • Kissing in public
  • Public display of wealth must be avoided.
  • Must not take picture without their permission.





People in Bangladesh welcome foreigners everywhere and try to help them in any way possible. Be gentle in any way when visiting another country and respect their culture and what they do in their country.

Note : This article is written by our site team

Posted on

Mauritius Guide

Introduction to the country


The island country of Mauritius is 6 different islands found in the Indian Ocean. Unlike other countries which were colonized by a single country, Mauritius was colonized by different countries including Dutch, Britain, and France. The island country gained its independence in 1968. The official language of the country is English but a lot of people use their ethnic languages.
The most practiced religion is Hinduism and there is a good number of Christians too. The capital city of the country is Port Louis and it has a population of about 140, 000 people and it is actually the largest city in the country. It is one of the best places to visit in the world, a home to some of the rarest plants and animals.


When to Go? / Best Time to visit


Mauritius has a classic tropical climate that is normally warm all year round. Their winter is considered to be between May and October but the climate is usually still kind of friendly. The summer is between November and April and the weather is usually hot and humid.
Visiting Mauritius between January and March might not be the best decision as it is usually wet and you might not enjoy your holiday as you would have in other times.
The winds are the strongest between November and April and you might want to avoid the east coast. So if you want to visit Mauritius and have a good time without worrying about the weather, be sure to be there between May and December.


How do I get Visa?


For the Indians traveling to Mauritius, you will be granted a 60 day visa the moment you arrive in the country. But to be provided a visa you will need to meet some requirements which includes providing proof that you have a return ticket or enough money to buy one. You also need to prove that you have enough money to meet all the costs while you are in the country and also provide proof that you are eligible to reenter your country of residence. If you are planning to stay for more than 60 days, you will be required to apply for a visa prior your visit in Delhi.


Do I need Vaccines?


Yes, there are some vaccines that are recommended. the CDC recommends that you get vaccinated against, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, yellow fever, meningitis, mumps, rabies, measles and Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis).
It will also be very wise if you get vaccination against chicken pox, shingles, influenza and pneumonia. It is also very important to make sure you bring some mosquito repellents or mosquito nets because mosquito related diseases like chikungunya and malaria are prevalent in Mauritius.


Travel Safety


We can only be able to provide you with some advice to help you make your decision but we can’t really be able to provide tailored advice for individual trips. Generally Mauritius is a safe country with less things to worry about. One thing that we cannot rule out is that there are possibilities of terrorism although it is not a common occurrence. But it is better to be safe than sorry.
If you will be traveling by sea, you need to be aware of robbery around the Gulf of Aden. It is a serious threat and you might want to consider avoiding that area or you will face the risk of getting hijacked and used as a hostage for ransom. The roads are generally safe but if you are going to be driving in the country, make sure you have a driving license.


What to Pack?


Semi- formal clothes, some hotels in the country do not allow people to enter with jeans so it will be wise to have some dresses and trousers that are not jeans.
Prescription, there are pharmacies available but it is wise to pack your own prescriptions just in case.
Umbrella, the climate of the island is prone to rain showers from time to time.
Water shoes, sea urchins can be an issue off the coasts and the beaches of the countries.


Typical costs


The mid-range restaurants in Mauritius will cost you around 450 rupees which is around 10 euros to have a full meal. The food are super delicious and the services are very friendly. The cost of travelling around is between 20 to 40 euros a day. By having a budget of about 3500 rupees per day, you will be at the safest side.


Cost of Travel for Indian Travelers


If you are planning a seven day trip from India to Mauritius, with a budget of 65, 999 rupees you will be at a safe side.
Saving Tips
Stock up your sunscreen because the temperatures might be too high and require you to buy sunscreen.
Don’t exchange money on the hotels, exchange in advance.
Shop local.
Be flexible.


How to Get Around?


There are various ways to travel around while you are in Mauritius which include:
You can hire a car for rental terms and use it to travel around.
You can be sure of using a taxi and most of the taxi drivers are very friendly and they are going to guide you well.
You can use bus travel to get around in Mauritius. Bus travel is actually the cheapest way to travel around.
Scooters and bicycle.


Things not do do


Do not spend all your time on the beaches, there is a lot to see and do.
Do not go for bus trips after 6 pm. Because some places might not be accessible at those times.
Do not go hiking without a guide.
Do not trust google maps because they are not optimized in Mauritius.
Do not drive on the right.
Happy travels and be sure to make the best of your time in Mauritius.

 

Posted on

Adventure Travel Guide ( Must Read For New Travelers )

Total Page Visits: 4419

Adventure Travel

Adventure tourism is described as a form of tourism where tourists engage in a variety of activities such a physical activity, activities in nature or cultural exchanges. It is not a must for all activities to create an adrenaline rush like diving with sharks since there are either numerous activities that can be done and still be exciting for those who are not up for the thrill.

Adventure tourism is far from being risky but is all about trying to connect with new cultures, landscapes you are not used to and also enhancing your physical activity. There are various types of activities to do on this adventure and also, numerous risks involved. Let us see more about this.



Types of adventure

1. Safari

Safari refers to an expedition in the wild of Africa. The journey includes game viewing and admiring birds in the wild. In addition to this, you get to experience the local African cultures, visit historical sights and sightseeing and participating in adventure and outdoor activities. If you are a safari traveler, then expect numerous hair-raising destinations.

2. Trekking

So much of this world can only be reached by mountain trails and jagged footpath. Regardless of your expertise in climbing, breathtaking trails in this world are begging for your boot prints. If you don’t think climbing is a good option for you, you can simply dip your toes in the water and enjoy the scenic views.

3. Yoga

Yoga can also be categorized as a type of adventure. Even though most adventures involve challenges, one of the most challenging adventures can be ignited from within. Yoga programs are a great way of exploring not only yourself but also your destination.

4. Free Falling

Most people picture liken bungee jumping and sky diving to free falling. Even though all are a part of adventure tourism, free falling is specifically designed to make you feel the same adrenaline rush the other falls give but less risk is involved. If you are a person who is not too adventurous, then you can try this out.

5. Summer camps

This is definitely one of the best sources of wonderful and ridiculous adventures that can be passed on to several generations for years. For those who are up for a new experience in the woods, be assured that going for a summer camp will give you knowledge on how to craft with natural materials and you will go for group hikes. 

There are numerous types of adventure tours that you can go to and enjoy. However, what is the activities that go on in these tours? Depending on your destination, the activities vary. As an example, in places with snow, dogsledding can be a fun activity. Places with mountains and glaciers call for mountaineering and places with water bodies that have fast rapids allow for rafting. You have the option of choosing an activity that suits you and if you are up for a memorable tour, choose an activity that you have not tried before. In this case, let us consider 4 well-known activities to take on an adventure tour.

Activities on an adventure tour

1. Swimming with sharks and dolphins

Swimming with dolphins is something everyone would want to because dolphins are very friendly. The satisfaction level most humans get can be able to relieve humans off most anxieties. However, what about swimming with sharks? This is surely an adrenaline pumping activity to prove your bravery. Safety measures are taken to ensure that the sharks will not be able to harm the cage that you are safely in.

2. Skydiving

This is one of the best ways to enjoy the view of a place. As the parachute unfolds, you will be able to soar over the coast of beachside or get a perfect view of an ocean if that is your destination.

3. Exotic car racing and driving

What an exciting experience it would be for speed freaks to tear up the tarmac in a car of their dreams and do it legally. At affordable prices, various sports cars are hired and once can take on this hair-raising velocity adventure. This is common in Las Vegas and Orlando in the USA.



4. Exploring outdoors

Apart from engaging in physical activities in order to enjoy your tour, one of the best ways to do this is by simply exploring what nature has to offer. The Grand Canyon is a magnificent view and simply walking around its rim can be an adventure in itself. Visits to national parks and exploring the falls, and even caves in such parks is a remarkable gift. You can also explore the Thai forest on an elephant’s back where the elephant will march through the streams and the heart of the rainforest. What a beautiful site!

It may seem fun to participate in all these activities. The 4 mentioned above are just but a drop in the ocean of things to do while on an adventure tour. However, it is more realistic to keep in mind that there are risks involved in such outdoor activities. Let us consider some common risks you should know.

Risks

Many unpredictable events occurring during an adventure are either caused by humans or the weather. Being unpredictable, it would be impossible to remove them, therefore, it will be prudent to try to minimize our exposure to them. One of the ways to do this is by asking yourself 3 basic questions.

  • Am I aware of the risks involved?

  • Am I prepared for the risks?

  • Am I healthy and fit for the trip before me?

Proper planning will enable you to get knowledge on the hazard common in your destination since risks with destinations also vary. You will also work to develop your strength and durability so that you don’t get sick during a hike. From research, you will know how to deal with animals you find on the way for example, if a bear showed up, would you run or stand still. What if a snake you, what would you do? If you lose your trail on a hike, what would you do to get back to the group?



Questions To Ask Yourself Before Booking An Adventure Trip

At some point in a person’s life, there is a desire to travel. For some, it may be just a week of holiday in a warmer place to do some fun activity or simply to top up their tan. Others may decide on taking a life-changing trip for a year or more. Whatever the case, each person has his or her own reasons for traveling. However, most people and adventurously peripatetic. Because of this, it is important for each person to get to know some crucial details, and not get carried away by the fun and the bucket list tasks to accomplish, before booking for such a trip. Let us consider 7 questions you should ask yourself before booking the trip.

1. Can I speak directly with the representative of the tour company?

This should be the first question you should ask yourself. With technological developments, it is easier to book travel arrangements online. However, making a more personal approach is a better option. In such a setup, a good tour company will give you an opportunity to ask all the questions you would like to know. A good question to ask during this meetup is what the weather will be like. Such information will enable you to make the necessary clothing arrangements and readjust your schedule of events if the weather information given is not suitable for your planning. Other than this it is crucial for you to make a follow up on that by observing the fluctuations in the weather pattern online several weeks prior to the trip

2. Am I comfortable being on my own?

Some trekkers prefer doing tougher treks alone. However, this can be a challenge because not only do you have to manage your own logistics but you also have to carry your own gear and cook for yourself in the campsite that you have pitched on your own. If this is not something you would like to do, book a guided trip with a small group. It would also be wise to consider hiring a local guide who speaks the language of the area you are visiting or opt to go with an employed and trained guard of the tour company who will likely adhere the company’s standards. For those who choose to go with the latter, inquire about the language proficiency of the guide in addition to the training level and certifications.

3. What Is My Fitness Level?

Any person in good health can prepare for an adventure if they are consistent in training and give themselves enough time for this. Cramming a last-minute training before the trip is very dangerous. It is crucial to avoid the assumption that because you have been regular at training, then you are in shape for a trek because 3 hours of climbing a steep and rugged terrain are totally different from 3 hours on a treadmill. Therefore, be smart during exercise. A combination of endurance and resistance such as trying out a backpack with weights on the trail instead of walking on a treadmill if you want to hike in your trip. Such skills will ensure your strength during the trip.

4. Are you willing to pay for more luxury?

Normally, different tour companies offer different prices based on the number of services they do for you compared to those which you do for yourself. The money paid to the tour companies will not cater to your needs if you, for example, need to have someone transport your luggage to after a tedious day of hiking. It is therefore wise to have something more than what you paid to the organization. However, carrying money is also challenging. Research on the best way to do this. Would you prefer to use a dummy to confuse pickpockets, adapt to the local money culture or seek money alternatives such as using a multi-use ticket instead of cash or credit card transactions in a high-traffic setting like the metro stations?

5. What are the visa requirements?

Applying for visas is one of the most hectic things you can go through as a traveler. Applying for visas by yourself is time-consuming, expensive and tedious. It can be more difficult if you stay in an area far from the embassy of the country you plan on visiting. Some tour companies can help you apply for a visa at a certain fee which is worthwhile considering the hustle and time-saving. It is important to apply for a visa at least two months before the trip but it is crucial to understand the visas offered by the country you plan to visit since conditions vary. There are some countries that no longer require visitors’ visas to enter or stay for a specific period, others have a date-specific visa that starts from the date of application and not on the day of arrival while others give you visas at specific airports.

6. What are the medical requirements?

Traveling abroad poses certain health risks. It is important to research the destination to find out the potential hazards. For example, traveling to developing countries requires more medications and vaccines to prevent health complications, the record of the vaccinations taken need to kept and presented on demand at the destination.  If you are traveling to a malaria endemic area, carry anti-malarial pills for added protection.

7. Will the destination suit my food habits?

A memorable part during a trip is the food offered, this is because going to a different country means a new culture and also different food. In some countries, spicy food is a is embraced everywhere and in others, vegetarian dishes are not common. You should, therefore, research thoroughly through the menu options over the internet and make a good selection of restaurants to try out. The tour company can also give you more knowledge on what to expect and you can adjust your palate accordingly.



How to Choose The Right Adventure Travel Company ?

The number of people embracing traveling has increased over the passing years. As a result, the number of tour companies has likewise grown. It may be difficult and confusing to select the right company that can offer you a good package that covers numerous services and assures you of your safety at a reasonable price. It is important to seek the help of a tour company especially when planning for a full-fledged trip or when looking to go to several destinations at a go, however, it is important to take care when selecting a tour company.

The biggest advantage of using a tour company is that the agents’ knowledge and experience will help generate an experience that will fit you. A major disadvantage is when you get ripped off by a company whose agents work towards lining their pockets by booking for your costly travel arrangements and overcharge you. In other instances, some companies have agents and even tour guides who are not familiar with the location you want to visit. It is evident that it is essential to choose a tour company that has a good reputation. How is this possible? Let us consider 8 ways on how to do this.

How to do it

1. Check their reputation

Many of such companies have a personal website where other travelers write reviews to relate their experiences. There is also an online forum to ask what other travelers have thought. Keep in mind that most people simply write reviews only if something goes wrong or even give the company a one star because they hated the weather at their destination.  Such instances make it hard to validate the quality of a company’s services however, websites such as Trustpilot generally show approval ratings for companies. If a company is highly rated, then the negative reviews can be treated as outliners.

2. Research the costs

Tour companies do not always make you get what you paid for. You need to ask about the cost you will spend and compare with your research to see whether they are simply maximizing the value of your money by giving you the best services or want to nickel-and-dime you. In addition, you need to inquire about additional charges to pay when you arrive. Some companies offer cheap services that end up being more expensive when you arrive since you will be obligated to pay for everything at your destination. Moreover, avoid the single supplements where most companies charge additional fees for solo travelers if they seek to have their own room. In the case of a group trip, a good tour company normally pairs solo travelers of the same sex together in one room. If there is no one else, as a solo traveler, you get your own room by default at no extra cost.

3. A balanced schedule

You pay a tour company to create a schedule for you and fill it up with activities. Consider whether they are doing just so. Do they have a variety of activities in your schedule or they leave you to choose for yourself?  Have they filled up your schedule with activities to the point that you wish for a holiday from your holiday? A balanced schedule gives you time to relax and enjoy it as part of your travel package.

4. Make sure that you are the audience

Depending on the level of energy or the silence you expect from your holiday, you need to know where your tour is geared to. Is it for families and older people who would be pretty quiet or a contoki tour full of young people that happens to be loud? The best way to know the audience is by looking at the accommodation offered. Hostels and guesthouses are for budget travelers and backpackers while older travelers and families normally seek fancy lodgings. It is important to know this because these are the people you will be traveling with. To enjoy, look out for tours that have your demographic.

5. Environmental impact

Ecotourism is a responsible form of travel extended not only toward the environment but also toward the locals. It is relevant to pick on a company that has and provides great value and gives back to your destination by either using local guides and services and also ensuring a reduction in waste and your footprint. You can research on eco-friendly companies certified by the International Ecotourism Society to validate their ecotourism practices since there are numerous fraudulent companies that claim to practice ecotourism but are involved in animal abuse, waste, and other terrible labor practices.



6. Safety record

Not all companies have an outstanding record of ensuring the safety of their clients. It is therefore up to you to research on whether the company of your choice is accredited by your local government, whether they are registered by any government or even trade organizations. Such organizations try to follow safety requirements.

7. Get local guides

Guides have a very significant role in your trip. Some are very knowledgeable and can answer any question you ask while others are glorified timekeepers who are simply interested in perfect timekeeping. Since guides are going to explain everything in your destination to you, ensure that the company uses very knowledgeable guides. The skills that come in handy with the guides should be language proficiency, travel experience and life-saving techniques that are of high importance.

8. Group size

This is where your preference comes in. You might enjoy traveling in a large group of up to 50 or 60 members or much smaller groups with not more than 15 people. However, keep in mind that tour companies that organize for smaller groups are more mindful about the environment and the impact they leave on the locals.

Our recommended travel resources

Travel Insurance World Nomads Travel Insurance

Accommodation  Booking.com

Site Web Hosting  Bluehost

 

Subscribe To Our Newsletter Here

 

 

Posted on

New Zealand Guide

New Zealand is a little country near Australia, ever heard of it? The country is comprised of two landmasses, the north island, and the South Island. It is one of the best places to surf, see the wildlife, the amazing landscapes there are. Even skiing is a great activity you can get done there.

Best Time to visit

New Zealand is fantastic to visit all year round because of the wide range of activities it offers. First of all, you need to remember that the season is the other way around down there, so December equals summer. Spring (September-November) is great because everything busts out with life. Summer is really hot; however, it is a great season for surfing. Autumns is the best season for hiking, kayaking, and cycling through the cities, and the landscapes get pretty unique. Winter will bring snow to the country and skiing season begins. Winter wine festivals are also great for wine lovers.

How to get a Visa

You do not need a visa if you are a New Zealand or Australian citizen or resident, a UK citizen and/or passport holder (you can stay up to six months), or a citizen of a country which has a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand. To get a visa you need to contact the New Zealand consulate and fill out the application forms and pay the application fee. You need a visa if you are going to stay there for more than three months.

Do I need Vaccines

No vaccines are really required to enter the country. However, hepatitis A and B are strongly recommended. Also, all routine vaccines like measles, TDAP, Chickenpox, etc. are required. You don’t need to take precautions against malaria but do take mosquito repellent.

Travel safety

New Zealand is actually one of the few countries in the world the US travel embassy marks as rather safe, in which you only need to apply normal precautions.  However, always know where your embassies are and what not to do. Crimes you can be exposed to are often just petty crimes like pickpocketing, or maybe bike-theft. If you are at a remote area, don’t leave your belongings on the open. Just take normal precautions. Christchurch’s attack is the only significant threat that has happened in the country.

What to pack

New Zealand island of many adventures and outside activities, but also to a fancy restaurant and a great nightlife. So, make sure you pack for that. Some essentials for your trip are jeans, comfortable hiking pants, tennis shoes, comfortable shoes, a fancy outfit, a raincoat and a coat, some dresses and a pashmina. These things will have you covered for most of the year, and most of the activities but do consider what you want to do. If you are going surfing, then you obviously need a bathing suit. And if you are going skiing you’ll need much warmer clothes.

Essential language phrases

Well, people in New Zealand speak English, so if you speak English you are pretty safe. However, if you want to get a little into the culture you can learn Maori, the New Zealanders tribe.

Some essential greetings are: Kia ora (kee oh-ruh): Hi , and Mōrena (moh-reh-nuh): Good morning, and Haere Mai (hi-reh my): Welcome

Other useful phrases are:Ko wai to ingoa? (koh why toh in-goh-uh): what’s your name, Ko…ahau (koh … ah-hoh): My name is…, Kei te pēhea koe? (kay tee peh-he-uh ko-eh): How are you? ,

Typical costs

Accommodation can cost from $10 a night to $250 dollars a night, depending on where you are staying. Transportation will cost you in average $44, being the average cost of a rental car $40, and the average price of public transport between cities being $55, and in-city public transport costing around $6. Finally, an average meal will usually not cost you more than $40. The average daily cost is around $179.

Saving tips

One of the best ways to get around in New Zealand in hitchhiking and couch surfing. The thing is, while this is a little dangerous in most countries, New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world.  If you are staying over there for a while, campervans are very famous ways to travel the country and they will save you some serious cash, there are also a lot of free campsites for you to park it. Also, substitute your alcohol for wine, wine is much cheaper than beer and other liquors. If you are on an adventure, camping-like mood, learn how to cook some food and make your own coffee, get reusable things, and drink from the tip. The overall way in which you can save a lot of money in New Zealand is by spending time in nature instead of in the city.

How to get around

Driving is the most common way to go around in New Zealand, whether you rent a car or a campervan. However, New Zealand shares more than their queen with England and that is that they drive on the other side of the road. When it comes to public transportation New Zealand offers buses, trains, and the Ferry. Domestic flights are all shorter than two hours and rather cheap. Finally, you can take tours, in which you just pay for the tour and all transportation is included.

What not to do

The first mistake almost everyone does is thinking it is like Australia, it isn’t.  the country is totally unique and has very different landscapes and attractions (aka The Shire from The Lord of The Rings) from Australia. Also, have the utter and utmost respect for the Maori culture, don’t take their customs lightly. Be open to trying local food, it might not be your ideal meal but you won’t regret trying new things. And finally, don’t over plan, New Zealand is one of the few countries in which you can just go where the wind tells you and have a great time.

New Zealand is a great country that can offer you a very different holiday from the one others can. Enjoy the green land of the south and the amazing journey it can offer you.