Must Read Tips For Shopping & Booking Your Travels Online

Booking & shopping online has proven to revolutionize the travel industry. There are many pros to utilizing online booking sites to plan your trip. Bottom line is, it saves you time and money, both important factors when planning your trip.

Before you go booking your trip online, read our tips on doing so to ensure you find the best deals and are protected in the process…

1. Shop around: This has been our motto from the start. We are finding that prices change all the time, so it is important to look around for the best travel deal.

Besides searching our site, we have provided our favorite sites (with reviews) for finding the best deals.

Don't get paralysis on analysis though. We recommend you pick a price (be reasonable though) and search until you find it- once you find it- take it!!

2. The more flexible you are the better: Hey, I know when you travel with kids or a group of people, being flexible isn't an option.

If you can be flexible, it will help, that's all. Things like flying on certain days (like Saturday or mid-week), or specific times (10pm-6am for example) could be a benefit.

3. Join Frequent Flyer Programs: This is a travel tip. You don't have to fly every other month to benefit from these programs. If you use credit cards, you might as well get something back.

Heck, we pay them enough in charges that you deserve something in return. Just pick your favorite airline(s) and sign up for an airline mile card!

4. Read: Sign up for e-zines.

You can set up a free email account if you don't want these piling up in your in-box. Many of them have an opt-out section that allows you to quit receiving emails once you are done.

They usually provide up-to-date alerts on what deals are out there. Also, you might want to look into a few information products about traveling on a budget or getting great deals!!

There are experts out there who have been there and done that and know how to take advantage of great opportunities.

5. Know all the terms and conditions: This is a very important cheap deal travel reminder. For example, you will want to know if your quotes are locked in immediately or how long you have til you must decide, what their refund policy is, cancellation policy, if their site is safe when you enter your information (if you see a golden key or padlock at the bottom in the toolbar, then you will be fine), changes you might need to make, and so forth. You don't want to get trapped into something that you can't get out of.

6. Get Coupons: Getting your hands on coupons can save you tons of money off various travel necessities. You can find valuable money savers with coupon books. Other cheap deal travel tips to consider...

7. Check a few sites & once you find your price, go bid at an auction site like Priceline, at a lower price. 8. Book all in one. Sometimes if you book your airfare, car, & hotel or a combo of the three, you can get a better cheap deal. Don't be afraid to ask!!

9. For flights, you can also do things like get bumped/stay over, fly out of another airport in your region (consider gas & driving and if that's worth it), & consider 1-2 or more connections (no-stop flights can be expensive).

Bonus tips when shopping online in general…

·Do online shopping with companies you know. We provide some places that give you a good start. You can also compare offline or with major retail chain's websites. ·Keep your passwords private and choose them wisely. ·Keep good records. This protects you if something arises. ·Check out the company's security policy and privacy policy. These are typically located at the bottom of the page. Or, look under site map or company information. ·Read the legal terms. These policies let you know what they do with any information you provide. ·Get their contact information. Try it out if need be. Make sure you know how to get a hold of someone. ·Make sure before you purchase, you read their return/refund policies. ·Review all descriptions of products, shipping & handling terms, and any other pertinent information you want to know. This should all be outlined for you.

Bali Beaches

Bali is one of the most visited vacation hotspots in the world. Situated in Indonesia, it was once named as the best island destination in the world by Travel and Leisure magazine. It attracts huge number of travelers from all over the world with its fun filled, palm fringed beaches known for having white sand. Bali has a many beaches, all of which are easily reachable from Despansar airport.

The line of beaches on the island of Bali includes Sanur beach, Jimbaran, Soka beach, Nusa Dua, Medewi beach, Lovina beach, Kuta, and Legian beach. Locals and tourists popularly go after Legian beaches, which are famous for their magnificent view of sunset. Surfing is a major activity here and the best waves are a 5 to 10 minute drive from Despansar airport.

There are numerous flights to Bali and depending on where you are coming from it can take just a couple of hours or almost a tour around the world. For those travellers coming from the USA it must be one hell of a flight since it takes almost 24 hours to get to this beautiful island.

As you might have expected already there are unfortunately no direct flights to Bali from any of the airports in the USA. If you travel from New York the best option is to fly to Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific or American Airlines and then transfer on a flight with Hong Kong Express Airways straight to Bali. This ‘fast’ option will take approximately 22 h 15 minutes.

Bali Addict

Bali is an Indonesian island that is rich in indigenous culture. A lot pf people say that Bali culture is unique and that the people of Bali have always been contented with the “now.” If you ask a Balinese person what heaven is like, the probable answer will be “just like Bali”. This only goes to show that most Balinese people are happy to be where they are and never worry.

One factor that contributes to this laidback lifestyle is the culture of close family ties in Bali. In the Balinese culture, support is always available. Balinese extended families are so tightly knit that all members usually reside in the same complex.

Hinduism is one of the main religions in Bali. The Bali culture is based on a form of this religion, which is called “Hindu Darma”. This religion reached the island during the eleventh century. Most of the family customs and traditions as well as community lifestyles of the Balinese people are influenced by this. The religious influence even expands widely into the arts, which makes Bali distinct from the rest of Indonesia.

In spite of the influx of tourists to the island, Balinese people have managed to preserve their culture. Almost every native of Bali is an artist in some form or another. Parents and villagers have passed on their skills to their children, who all seem to have inclinations either to music, dance, painting, and decor.

Another remarkable mark of the Bali culture is the series of ceremonies and rituals known as the Manusa Yadnya. This marks the different stages of Balinese life. Cremation is very popular on this island – and unlike in the West, death is a joyous and colorful event for the Balinese.

Indeed, Bali has a rich culture, making it distinctive from the rest of the islands in Indonesia.

Tips for Summer Travel

The summer is right around the corner, and thousands of Americans are planning vacations and trips. Traveling on a budget can be tricky, but it is not impossible. The key is to plan ahead, and try to the make the most out of what you have. Contact your credit card company beforehand to find out what kind of deals they have to offer. Many have rebate programs for travel expenses. If you are using a rental car, find out if your insurance covers you in case of an accident. You can save quite a bit by forgoing the car rental insurance policy.

The following is a list of tips and tricks to make your summer vacation the best ever.

1.Get a good deal on a hotel. Unless you are staying with friends or family, you will probably be in the market for a good hotel room. Normally, you can spend your entire budget on hotels and motels. I suggest trying a site like priceline.com. You can name your own price, and get some really great deals on rooms and car rentals.

2.Plan your trip out beforehand. Spend some time mapping out your trip, highlighting areas that you plan to visit. There will most likely be a few pit stops along the way. Planning ahead will help ensure that you have enough money to cover all of your activities. Don't forget to factor in souvenirs and snacks.

3.Keep the kids entertained! Traveling with young ones can be a challenge. You want to have plenty of activities and toys to keep them occupied. Try looking at CouponChief.com for some great coupons for toys and travel gear. Don't forget books and magazines as well. The trip will go faster, and you won't have to field as many "are we there yet?" cries.

4.Don't forget the tunes. Stock up on your families favorite CDs and tapes. Include a few titles for each family member to help keep the peace. Try a discount music store, or look for a coupon on an e-coupon site.

5.Be easy on the gas pedal. If you are driving, you may be concerned about the high gas prices. You can save a significant amount of your gas budget by planning ahead. Make sure that your tires are properly inflated, and that your car is in good working order. Staying at a constant speed will also help you save on your gas bill.

First Class Airfare: How the Rich Travel

Have you ever wondered what all entails first class airfare, but never knew where to look? First class airfare can cost up to 15 times more than the regular fares for the same trip. So what do travelers living the high life actually get for these super inflated prices? Well, a lot. This article will detail the major carriers, and what they provide their first class airfare clients with. It's a wild ride - are you ready?

First Class Airfare: Goodie Bags If you thought the goodie bags you received when you were in elementary school were cool, think again. First class airfare passengers get a whole lot of stuff when traveling on first class airfares; let's take a peek at some of those goodie bags now: • American: Lip balm, cooling gel, and if requested, shaving cream. • United: Brand name mouth wash, lip balm and moisturizer that was created for United specifically. • Delta: Lip balm and moisturizer. • Continental: Whitening toothpaste, toothbrush and cotton socks. • Virgin: Eye gel, body gel, pen, paper and mints, all branded with the Virgin name. • Singapore: Brand name hand lotion, lip balm, and aromatherapy oils.

First Class Airfare: Sleep Aids Of course, many of the first class airfares cover a large geographical area. Therefore, passengers need to relax and perhaps even sleep during their journey. Since first class airfare comes with all of the great perks, they couldn't forget sleep aids, could they? • American: A privacy divider and a seat that reclines completely. • United: Full pillows, a privacy divider, and a seat that reclines completely. • Delta: An eye shade and ergonomically designed seats. • Continental: Full pillows, electronic lumbar support, and an adjustable footrest. • Virgin: Seats that recline completely, eye shades, cotton pj's, and warm socks. • Singapore: Seats that turn into beds with fresh linens and duvet, and givenchy pj's.

First Class Airfare: Dinner Ah, food. There is nothing better than a luxurious meal. And on a first class airfare trip, you're sure to get your fill with these amazing meals, complete with dessert: • American: Filet mignon, paella or lamb in rosemary sauce, with vanilla flan and while chocolate mousse for dessert. • United: Citrus sesame chicken with rice, and ice cream sundaes with the works for dessert. • Delta: Five course meal with ice cream sundaes with the works for dessert. • Continental: Porcini mushroom veal chops and roasted veggies with ice cream sundaes and the works for dessert. • Virgin: Selection of 23 different menu items, with petit desserts such as cheesecake. • Singapore: Lobster, steak, lamb or a barramundi fillet, with health sweets for dessert.

First Class Airfare: 'Other' Perks There are a myriad of other things the first class airfare passengers receive on their trip; here is a mélange of the most interesting: • American: Free champagne, a personal TV and DVD player, and noise erasing headsets. • United: Free Dom and scotch, a personal TV, and an inflatable seat that gives back massages. • Delta: An amazing free wine selection, video games, and a self-service snack bar. • Virgin: Free vodka or cognac, play Nintendo games, in-flight massages and manicures, and a free limousine service.

Travel and tour tips for China

China is a large country at a size of 9,596,960 sq km. China was only partially open to the world from 1980 onwards and has been a communist country for many decades. Although there is much progress in the travel industry and infrastructure of China, there remain areas that need to be improved before it can match the level that most tourist would require.

However, much of the fun remain that it is different from the rest of the world. China will be the host nation for the Olympics in Year 2008. Travel facilities and infrastructure will be improving quickly as we approach Year 2008.

China is rich in culture and history. Visit the Great Wall of China in Beijing, sip Chinese tea in Xiamen, dance with ethnic tribes in Yunnan, check out 19th Century European buildings in Qingdao - there are just so much to do and see in China!

Below are some travel tips to make your travel in China easier:

Entry Visa

China require entry visa from most countries. Apply at the Chinese consulate or through your travel agent before travelling to China.

Climate

Extremely diverse; tropical in south to subarctic in north. Be prepared with the right seasonal clothing.

Foreign Exchange

The unit of currency is known as Renmembi(RMB) or Yuan. Get some Chinese Yuan in your local country before travelling. When in China, exchange foreign currency for local currency in the banks or at the hotel. Banks tend to give slightly better rates than hotels. Take note that some banks close for a noon siesta between 12-2pm.

Payment facilities

Most better class hotels and shopping centres take Credit Card or Travellers cheques. Smaller hotels and shops take cash only. Once out of the bigger cities, credit card and ATM cards tend to be almost impossible to utilize. Cash is still king in Chinese business and trade.

Counterfeit notes are common in China. Check carefully before accepting change, especially if it consists mostly 100RMB notes. You can feel a texture difference where counterfeit notes is concerned.

Understanding of English

Most civil servants, custom officials, police, hotel staff and men in the street do not speak English or at best a smattering of English.

Most signboards and notices will carry both English and Chinese. However, be aware that some translations can be so notorious that one can hardly understand what was it's original Chinese intention.

Do not expect hotels or shops to understand English. Only the very big hotels will have staff that will understand English.

Most young people can understand basic English if you speak slowly.

Social Security

China is generally a safe country. However, hang on tight to your wallet especially in crowded, popular tourist sites in tourist cities such as Beijing and Xian.

These tourist cities also has a lot of touts in the streets touting tourist from currency exchange to jewelleries to female companionships. Avoid at all cost!

Domestic Travel

Bus, train, ferries and domestic flights are quite well developed. Avoid the crowd at the stations and book your tickets through the hotel tour desk or the nearest tour agent. Prices are likely to be competitive and tickets will be delivered to your hotel room. Again, avoid ticket touts who approach you in the streets.

Local buses are cheap (US$0.10 or YS$0.20) and you may want to try out. Taxis are convenient and are available at all hours. Starting fares differ from each city and may be as cheap as US$0.70 in Weihai and US$1.50 in Shenzhen.

Avoid travel in China during peak holiday seasons or book tickets well ahead.

Local Hotels

There is a good choice of hotels in China ranging from one star to the most luxurious 6 stars. Most of the time, the rooms are safe and clean and in my opinion, cheap does not mean bad.

There are many websites selling China hotel rooms on the internet. You can also check out the travel counters which are available in most train, bus stations as well as airport.

Book ahead if travelling in peak seasons.

Peak Tourist Seasons

Chinese New Year: Date varies but generally late January or early February.

May Day: First two weeks of May

China National Day: Middle two weeks of October

Avoid travelling during these period. Book rooms and travel modes way early if need to travel. Believe me, the crowds during these period of time will be scary. What do you expect when the entire Chinese nation of 8 billion people are on holiday as well!

Chinese Food

Local food is absolutely fabulous. Try as much Chinese food as your wallet or stomach can afford. Restaurants are available everywhere and open to late hours. Most restaurants will have a menu that include photographs of the various dishes. Better yet, simply point at the food that your next door table is having, especially if it looks delicious!

However, avoid street side stalls and drinking directly from the taps if you have delicate stomach.

Telecommunications

Mobile phone coverage in China is good in most locations. Global auto-roaming within China is not a problem.

Internet

There are cyber-cafes everywhere in China, especially in tourist areas. Most are patronised by young people playing online games but you still can check your Hotmail, Yahoo or Gmail. Access may be a bit slow for international websites.

You will need to show your passport as China has tight regulations at Internet Cyber Cafes.

Toilet facilities

One of the worst experience many has with China is the atrocious toilet facilities. Things has improved very much but it may still be a good idea to empty your stomach or bladder at every opportunity in a hotel, restaurant or departmental store. Public toilets and toilets in small shops can be a nose hazard!

* Useful China travel tips *

Try to get a English speaking tour guide at every opportunity you can. China has a rich and wonderful history and culture and without a guide, somehow, the flavour and significance of most tour sites can be lost.

*Sneaky tip: Hang around a group that has a English speaking guide if you cannot afford one!

Always ask for a receipt from a taxi driver so that you can complain if you have been cheated or for tracing purposes if you happen to leave your camera behind in the taxi.

Try to take the namecard for each hotel that you are staying at as these cards will have a Chinese address and the map of your hotel location. This is useful if you need to seek assistance to find your way back as the English version or pronounciation of a hotel or a street name may be quite different from the Chinese version.

After a tiring day, check out Chinese foot reflexology or Chinese TuiNa (Chinese massage). Wonderful for the body after a hard day and very cheap to boot. Simply look out for shop signs that shows two feet! They are everywhere.

Make friends with the Chinese whenever you can. They love to meet foreigners and will make good tour guides. Just buy a small present as a small token of appreciation.

Staying healthy while traveling

Your good health is paramount while traveling and taking simple precautions can drastically reduce your chances of falling ill.

Health Insurance
An insurance package that covers your health, possessions and cancellations is imperative.

Immunizations
Immunizations are critical – especially if you are planning to visit 3rd world countries. Many immunizations require a specific time period to take effect or require certain follow-up shots – so plan well ahead. You should record any immunization shots received on an official health certificate as this is often a requirement of visa applications.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention can advise you on the current recommendations for your intended destination.

General
Food and water are one of the leading causes of illness for travelers. These simple tips can drastically reduce your chances of illness:

- If the water is suspect, don’t take the risk. This includes ice, food washed and prepared in the water and swimming pools. Buy bottled water or boil/sterilize existing water.

- Only consume fruit and vegetables that can be pealed or are protected by an outer skin (bananas, oranges, pineapple etc)

- Wash you hands thoroughly before all meals.

- When purchasing meat and seafood, look for proper refrigeration.

- Cooked food is generally safer for consumption. Raw and undercooked food can carry an array of pathogens.

- Be wary of un-pasteurized milk and milk products

- The National Center for Infectious Diseases publishes informative traveler’s health information. Food and drink risks can be accessed through: http://www.cdc.gov/travel/food-drink-risks.htm

Insect Bites
Be sure to cover up with insect repellant – especially when traveling the tropics. Spray on repellant with DEET will offer you the greatest protection. Use mosquito nets while sleeping. Also, be sure to research whether insect carried diseases are a problem where you intend to travel.

Sunburn
Many of us travel to find a spot in the sun but overexposure can cause severe sunburn. Stay in the shade during extreme burn times and use plenty of sun block. When choosing sun block, check the SPF Factor and the brand. SPF 30+ is recommended when traveling down-under.