Travel Wish and Dreams - Wish a Travel

California Travel Videos - California is the heart of USA

2010-10-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

California is one of the largest states in the US (trailing Alaska and Texas in size) and is referred to as the Golden State, which originates from the gold rush of 1849. Very few miners did anything but become broke, while those that supplied the miners with materials grew very rich. California is located along the west coast of the United States and is one of the most visited places on the planet. The capital has moved over time but is currently in Sacramento, located in the central part of the state.

Some of the most beautiful spots for hiking and other outdoor activities are Lake Tahoe, Mono Lake, and Yosemite in the High Sierra. Reaching as it does from the Mexican border in the south to the Pacific Northwest in the north, California must have one of the most diverse climates of any state. If you can stand the heat, try exploring one of California's many deserts, such as Death Valley. On the other end of the climate spectrum, the redwood rainforests of the North Coast are truly a sight to behold and offer a very different glimpse of a beautiful state!
Top 10 Attractions of San Francisco, California

California's Pacific Coast Highway in a droptop Mustang

Tour of Disneyland, Orange County, California in HD

2010 New Year's Eve Around the World

2010-01-02T16:38:00.000-08:00

Times Square Ball Drop New York City:

London Fireworks on New Year's Day 2010:

Marina Bay, Singapore 2010 Countdown:

Nieuwmarkt, Amsterdam New Year 2010 Fireworks:

Sydney, Australia Fireworks Celebration 2010

Las Vegas, Nevada Fireworks Redeemed back in 2010:

Romantic Island: Bora Bora

2009-11-05T00:15:00.000-08:00

Simply said, Bora Bora is the most beautiful island in the world. Pora Pora - the ancient name, meaning "first born," came from legends describing this as the first island to rise when Taaroa, the supreme god, fished it out of the waters after the mythical creation of Havai'i, now known as Raiatea. Although the first letter "B" does not exist in the Tahitian language, when Captain Cook first heard the name he mistook the softened sound of the Tahitian "P" for "B" and called the island Bola Bola.

Truly, the most romantic island in the world. From the dramatic scenery to the privacy and amenities of the overwater bungalows, everything in Bora Bora equals a 10 on the romance scale. Resorts have been welcoming couples for over 40 years and their special amenities have been fine tuned to perfection. From sunrise to sunset, each resort has designed their own blend of unique romantic experiences for their guests to choose from. Watch these 3 Videos in HD and you will feel like you really went to Bora Bora Island for a virtual trip. Don't forget to read about the top 5 things to do in this lovely island after the videos below....

Bora Bora Island: Part 1 of 3

Bora Bora Island: Part 2 of 3

Bora Bora Island: Part 3 of 3

Do not let its small size fool you; Bora Bora holds a wide variety of appealing activities. Tourism plays a major role in the thriving society that calls Bora Bora home. For this reason, experienced locals organize many of the attractions and services that the island offers.

1. Bora Bora Lagoonarium

With a reputation as a snorkel/scuba diving heaven, there is no shortage of breathtaking underwater gardens, which is why a trip to the Bora Bora Lagoonarium is essential. The Lagoonarium offers an up close and personal interaction with numerous aquatic creatures-from rays and sharks to turtles and tropical fish. Characterized by shallow water and captive aquatic life, the Lagoonarium is perfect for inexperienced divers and children. The rays and turtles have grown accustomed to human contact and pose no threat to excited visitors. Daily rates begin at $73.

2. Toboggans and Glass Bottom Boat Tours

Another way to experience the sea, and stay dry, is to hop on a toboggan (a wooden hollowed out vessel originally designed to glide over snow and ice) and take a tour of the lagoon. The remarkably clear water allows for perfect views of the ocean floor. Toboggan and glass bottom boat tours provide a relaxing and breezy opportunity to absorb the island and its secret spots that cannot be accessed by foot.

3. Mount Otemanu and Pahia

The views of lush green mountaintops give an enticing reason to take a guided hike to Mount Otemanu or Pahia. It may be difficult to abstain from the ocean for a day, but a guided hike is well worth the effort. Cool off under a waterfall and take pictures of the pure surroundings. The greenery of Bora bora is one of a kind. Coconuts are plentiful on the island, so help yourself and enjoy a gulp of coconut water-rich in electrolytes and calcium.

4. Tour the Island

Exploring the island is highly recommended. Bora Bora is less than 20 miles long and provides clear smooth roads for travelers. Decide on a preference of transportation. (There are 4 wheel jeep tours and bicycle rentals). Grab a bottle of sunscreen and cruise around the island at your own pace-stopping at shops and restaurants will provide a taste of the French-Polynesian culture. Art du Pacific is an exquisite shop with detailed Polynesian paintings and sculptures for sale.

5. Bora Bora Nightlife

Be sure to set aside time for the ultimate evening in Bora Bora. Many resorts offer special packages like the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort and Spa. Enjoy a 90-minute lagoon cruise at sunset with complimentary cocktails and get a taste of the island once the lights go down.

Tahiti is the Islands of Love

2009-10-28T20:40:00.000-07:00

What is Tahiti ?

Tahiti is the largest of the 118 islands and atolls that constitute what is officially known as French Polynesia. The island of Tahiti and the capital city of Papeete are located in the Society Islands, an archipelago that includes the high-rising islands of Moorea, Huahine, Raiatea, Taha'a, and Bora Bora. Other dramatic island groups are the Tuamotu Atolls with the slender coral wreaths of Rangiroa, Manihi, Tikehau, and Fakarava and the Marquesas - with the massive mountains on the islands of Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa. Read below....

How Long Does It Take to Get There?

The islands are located south of the equator, in the same time zone as Hawaii, and halfway between California and Australia. Papeete's Faa'a Airport (PPT) is under 8 hours by air from Los Angeles (LAX). From North America, nonstop flights depart LAX nearly every day on Air Tahiti Nui and Air France. Nonstop flights from Honolulu (HNL) to Papeete (PPT) are also available weekly on Hawaiian Airlines.

What Activities Are There to Do?

Tahiti is the perfect place to do everything or nothing at all. Popular activities include 4x4 safaris, nature hikes, scuba diving, snorkeling, canoeing, sailing, jet skiing, wind-surfing, surfing, bike riding, tennis, golf on the island of Tahiti, horseback riding, deep-sea fishing, shopping, circle-island tours, helicopter tours, museums stops and archaeological tours.

What Kind of Shopping Is There? What Souvenirs Should I Buy?

Among Tahiti's most popular products are black pearls, tiare and coconut soaps, monoi oil, vanilla beans, shell leis, wood carvings, woven hats and baskets, and the colorful hand dyed pareu fabric worn by the island natives. The Papeete public market is a favorite with visitors. Shops usually open about 7:30am and close at 5:30pm (Noon on Saturdays) but there is always a long lunch hour. Except in hotels, all shops are usually closed on Sundays.

How Do I Get Around?

The most inexpensive and common form of transportation is the public bus system. On Tahiti there are now two types of buses: the open-air trucks called Le Truck and the RTC large white coaches. Both operating frequently in Papeete and around the island. Le Truck also operates on most other islands. Taxis can be hired at most hotels, airports, and ferry terminals. For scenic tours around the islands, try escorted excursions by boat, 4x4 safari, bus, or helicopter.

What Is the Time Difference?

The islands are just two hours behind Pacific Standard Time. During Daylight-Saving Time (April to late October) they are three hours behind. Time in the Marquesas is half an hour ahead of the rest of the islands.

What Should I Wear?

The climate and lifestyle on the islands call for casual and comfortable clothing. Pack loose-fitting, natural fabrics and plenty of shorts. Pareus and swimsuits can be worn during the daytime at the resorts, while casual shirts and walking shorts provide the most comfort during island explorations. For dinner, casual slacks and sport shirts are the best choice for men while cool sundresses are most appropriate for women.

What Are the Essentials to Bring?

Sunscreen, brimmed hats, sunglasses, swimsuits, reef-walking shoes, bug repellent, prescription medicine, and a camera with plenty of film.

Is the Water Safe to Drink?

Tap water is good in most hotels and restaurants. Bottled water is also available everywhere in stores, markets, and hotels

Do I Need Health Certifications?

No shots or certifications are required from North America. Regardless of the traveler's nationality, entry from an infected area of the world as defined by the World Health Organization requires certifications.

What Is the Voltage?

Hotels use either 110 or 220 volts, depending on the location. A converter/adapter is often required for appliances you bring, including computers

Will I Need to Exchange Money?

Upon arrival most visitors exchange some money at the airport or at their hotels. Since most credit cards are readily accepted in all tourist areas, it is not necessary to exchange large amounts. The currency is the French Pacific Franc (XPF).

Will I Need a Passport/Visa?

A valid passport and a roundtrip or return ticket are required for all visitors entering Tahiti. Visas are not required for North American citizens for stays of less than one month.

Is English Spoken?

French and Tahitian are the official languages, but English is spoken and understood in tourist areas. Brushing up on a few basic French phrases and learning Tahitian greetings are appreciated.

What About Tipping?

Tipping is not customary in Polynesian culture and is not expected. However, tipping is welcomed for exemplary service.

What Are the Seasons and Climate?

Cooled by gentle ocean breezes, the climate is ideal. Being tropical but moderate, the climate features sunny, pleasant days and an average yearly air and water temperature of 80∞F. Summer is from November through April, when the climate is slightly warmer and more humid. Winter is from May through October, when the the climate is slightly cooler and dryer.

Necker Island, Perfect for Honeymoon

2009-10-24T13:45:00.000-07:00

Owned by British entrepreneur Richard Branson, Necker Island is an exclusive private island vacation getaway located in the British Virgin Islands. The resort is run like a private residence where guests are free to decide what to do, what to wear and when to dine. The island has a staff of 31 and can accommodate up to 26 guests. Necker Island rental rates start from $22,500 per day. If you are planning a honeymoon, seven night Celebration Weeks cost from $19,500 per couple per week. Necker Island can be rented on a daily basis when it is not being used by its owner. During special seven night Celebration Weeks, usually in September and October, island accommodations are available to couples on a weekly basis starting at $19,500 per couple per week.

Things to do:

Necker is designed to be your own private hideaway - a place far from the stresses and strains of daily life where you dictate the pace and the mood. Whether your passion is suiting up and getting wet in the crystal clear water or relaxing with a book on a deserted beach, you'll be well catered for. They also host casino nights in the Great House, fancy dress parties, BBQs on the beach, gala dinners where the food just keeps coming and much, much more! Read more below...........

Need To Know

Whether this is your first or your fifth visit to Necker, there are a few things you should definitely not forget to bring with you. Your room on island will be stocked with some of the essentials, but we've put together a few helpful tips on what to pack.

What to Wear - Situated in the tropics, the weather in the British Virgin Islands is hot and fairly humid throughout the year so we recommend that you dress accordingly and unless something special has been organized for your stay or you prefer to dress for dinner, there is no need to bring smart clothes. Beachwear is just fine anywhere on the island!

When packing – Please ensure you label your bags before you leave home with your name and ‘Necker Island’. This will help them make sure they make a smooth transition from the plane to your room so you don’t have to worry!

Facilities & Activities on Necker Island:

A large infinity pool and Jacuzzi at The Great House
A huge beach pool complete with swim-up bar, dining pavilion and waterfall on Main Beach.
A generously sized pool shared by Bali Lo, Bali Buah and Bali Kukila.
A plunge pool next to Bali Hi
An outdoor bath & Jacuzzi in the Master Suite.
Two floodlit tennis courts with a viewing pavilion and a tennis pro normally resident on Necker.
A Watersports shed along with five fully qualified instructors who among other things can offer windsurfing, kitesurfing, sea kayaking, water skiing, snorkelling & sailing.
Fully equipped air-conditioned gymnasium with a TV and stereo system.
Sailing and speed boats (note that guests are not permitted to drive the speed boats)
Fishing equipment (not deep sea)�-Extensive movie, music and book libraries along with board games.
Bali Hi, Bali Lo & The Master Suite have private home entertainment systems
Full sized snooker table�
Several beaches with safe swimming and good snorkelling areas.�Walking trails around the island.

�
Activities Not Included at Necker Island:

They can arrange pretty much anything that is available in the British Virgin Islands using outside companies. Some ideas include Scuba Diving for those who have a PADI and Scuba Diving Resort Courses for those who don’t. They can arrange half or full day deep sea fishing trips and excursions to other islands in the BVIs. Guests with any medical conditions that might affect their fitness for diving should bring a doctor’s note allowing them to go ahead. If you’re uncertain please contact the resort beforehand and they can check with the local diving organizations. Please make sure you bring your PADI certification or the diving companies will not allow you to dive!

If you fancy some shopping or sightseeing they can arrange a helicopter to take you outside the BVIs to places such as San Juan. Please note that due to conservation of precious coral reefs jet-skiing is not permitted in the BVIs.

The Basics:
In your room you will find UK plug adaptors (the Island is fitted with US plug sockets), a direct dial telephone, large bottles of toiletries including shampoo, conditioner & shower gel, a hairdryer, bathrobes, kimonos, sarongs, a mosquito net and a ceiling fan Located at various convenient locations around the Island you will also find a selection of sunscreens in various factors, aftersun lotion, insect repellent and pool towels.

Island Transportation:

If you’re staying in a Bali House, they will provide a golf buggy (mule) so you can drive to and from other areas of the island. Guests driving the mules must be 18 years old and hold a valid international driving license.

HONEYMOONS ON NECKER ISLAND:

Let’s face it, when it comes to weddings, everyone likes to get involved! Your honeymoon, however, should be just about you, which is why Necker Island is the idyllic place to get away from it all after the big day. For the ultimate honeymoon, hire Necker Island exclusively for just you and your other half! All figures are in US dollars.

From $51,000 per night for up to 28 guests From $53,000 per night for up to 28 guests
($1,821 per person per night) ($1,893 per person per night)

Or, stay during one of their Celebration Weeks, where couples hire individual rooms and share the island with other guests. Rates are per couple for a seven night stay. Three and five night stays available.

Rooms in The Great House $25,400
Master Suite $28,350
Bali Hi $27,300
Bali Beach $27,300
Bali Cliff $27,300
Bali Buah $27,300
Bali Lo $27,300

What is included?

Included in the rates for Exclusive hire & Celebration Weeks:

• Your accommodation
• All meals and drinks (both alcoholic and other – includes Champagne)
• Return boat transfers from Virgin Gorda or Beef Island airports
• A team of approximately 50 fabulous staff
• Laundry facilities (dry cleaning not available)
• Business facilities, wireless internet in the Great House (for when you just can’t tear yourself away!)
• Phones available throughout the island
• 7% local tax

Thailand a Must Visit Place

2009-10-24T13:26:00.000-07:00

Thailand is often referred to as a golden land. Thailand's peak tourist season runs from November to late March, with secondary peaks in July and August. If you want to avoid crowds and take advantage of discounted room rates, consider traveling during the least crowded months (typically April to June, September and October). Read more below....

Although the rainy season (roughly July to October) gets a bad reputation, there are some bonuses: temperatures tend to be cooler, tourists are fewer and the landscape is lush and green. Depending on the region and the month, the rains might be hour-long downpours in the afternoon. October, however, tends to be the wettest month.

Capital City: The city of Bangkok is a modern behemoth of screaming traffic, gleaming shopping centres and international sensibilities interwoven with devout Buddhism.

Money: The basic unit of Thai currency is the baht. There are 100 satang in one baht; coins include 25-satang and 50-satang pieces and baht in 1B, 2B, 5B and 10B coins. Older coins have Thai numerals only, while newer coins have Thai and Arabic numerals.

Costs: Thailand is an inexpensive country to visit thanks to advantageous foreign currency exchanges and an affordable standard of living. Those on a budget should be able to get by on about 600B to 700B per day outside Bangkok and the major beach islands.

New York City: Top Attractions + Aerial View of N.Y.C (HD)

2009-10-22T17:54:00.000-07:00

Let me first start with some of the top 10 hot spots that you need to go in New York City. Don't forget to watch the Amazing Aerial Video of the City in HD.

1. Empire State Building: Tired of staring up at New York City skyscrapers? Check out the view of New York City from atop the Empire State Building. You can avoid waiting in the ticket line for the Empire State Building if you buy your tickets online in advance.

2. Statue of Liberty: The Statue of Liberty was a gift to the United States in honor of the friendship established during the French Revolution. The Statue of Liberty has become an American symbol of freedom and welcome to the immigrants who come to the USA looking for a better life.

3. Grand Central Terminal: Renovations since its opening in 1913 have turned Grand Central into more than just a hub for transportation -- there are shops, dining and more available to visitors. There are group tours available, as well as free tours for individuals on Wednesdays and Fridays.

4. Rockefeller Center: The Rockefeller Center in midtown Manhattan, is known for its Christmas tree, ice skating, Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Radio City Music Hall and numerous shopping and dining opportunities. Rockefeller Center is a great destination for visitors any time of year.

5. Ellis Island Immigration Museum: The Ellis Island Immigration Museum offers visitors a fascinating look into the immigrant experience. Interactive exhibits, walking tours and movies reveal the hardships and challenges faced by immigrants passing through Ellis Island.

6. Staten Island Ferry: The Staten Island Ferry is a free ferry from lower Manhattan to Staten Island, used by commuters and tourists wanting a view of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty.

7. American Museum of Natural History: Since opening to the public in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History has evolved and grown. In addition to the Rose Center planetarium and regular exhibits, the American Museum of Natural History hosts a revolving series of new exhibits, so there is always something new to see.

8. Central Park: Central Park has offered a welcome escape from the concrete jungle of New York City for over 150 years. Take a walk, a boat ride or just enjoy a picnic in Central Park and discover for yourself why Central Park is so popular.

9. Metropolitan Museum of Art: Over 2 million works of art from around the world and throughout history are housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is an iconic art museum that is well worth a visit.

10. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Founded in 1929 as the first museum dedicated entirely to contemporary art, the MoMA is host to an impressive collection of modern artistic efforts. From painting and sculpture to film and architecture, the Museum of Modern Art's diverse collection has something for everyone.

The Best Video I have Ever Seen

2009-10-18T03:46:00.000-07:00

Video Title: Where the Hell is Matt?

It took 14 months to make the video. Matt traveled to 42 Countries around the world and danced with thousands of casts. Thanks to everyone who danced!!.

Alaska, USA : Discover the Silence Beauty

2009-10-10T00:54:00.001-07:00

Alaska! "Land of the Midnight Sun, and our Last Frontier." Alaska Guide offers many unique opportunities to travelers unsurpassed beauty of our nation's 49th state an awesome sense of nature in all its glory. Alaska is a wonderful and fascinating place. Whether its backcountry hiking, coastline kayaking or dining on a downtown deck, there truly is something for everyone.

There's a reason the U.S. state with the most land has such a small population: Life in many parts of Alaska is no walk in the park. Particularly if you live outside of a city and have to contend with polar bears, earthquakes, the occasional volcanic eruption or tsunami, those extreme Arctic temperatures, not to mention the often dark and depressing weather. In this Wide Angle we celebrate these challenges, along with some of Alaska's beauties.

Alaska is the largest state in the USA, a sparsely populated land of immense natural beauty, diverse wildlife and breathtaking adventure. At one-fifth the size of the lower 48 states, Alaska has 3 million lakes, over 3,000 rivers, 17 of the USA’s 20 highest peaks, 100,000 glaciers and 15 national parks, preserves and monuments. Soaring snow-covered peaks, glaciers and fjords, bears, moose, salmon-filled rivers and the shrill call of eagles echo the grandeur of this state, which offers an experience like nowhere else on earth.

Discover Long Island, The Real Bahamas

2009-10-08T14:51:00.000-07:00

It's better in the Bahamas! Welcome to the Out Islands of the Bahamas, or as we like to call it the REAL Bahamas. This video is about Long Island. This Video is a glimpse of two hosts (Kevin Oestenstad and Jennifer Fox) discovering the Out Islands of the REAL Bahamas for the first time. Watch them on their journey to discover truly authentic Bahamian destination experiences in Long Island.

They get off the beaten path and SEEK what historical, natural, and cultural wonders these beautiful islands in the Bahamas offers to visitors. What they found in Long Island completely changed their perspective of what they thought about the Bahamas. The Out Islands is not a place for everyone, so if you are looking for touristy resorts, crowded beaches, casinos and cruise stops, or marine life behind aquarium glass, don't come to the Out Islands. More importantly, our hosts found themselves. These tranquil islands of the Bahamas also allows you to RECONNECT to yourself and your loved ones.

Zurich, Switcherland : Where to stay, eat & shop

2009-10-05T12:20:00.001-07:00

Macau : Discover this Hybrid City

2009-10-05T12:16:00.001-07:00

Hong Kong, China : Happening City

2009-10-05T12:06:00.001-07:00

Cleveland, Ohio

2009-10-04T22:43:00.001-07:00

Chicago, USA

2009-10-04T22:20:00.001-07:00

Washington DC, USA

2009-10-04T22:13:00.001-07:00

Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States and the seat of its three branches of government, has a collection of free, public museums unparalleled in size and scope throughout the history of mankind, and the lion's share of the nation's most treasured monuments and memorials. The vistas on the National Mall between the Capitol, Washington Monument, White House, and Lincoln Memorial are famous throughout the world as icons of the world's wealthiest and most powerful nation. Beyond the Mall, D.C. has in the past two decades shed its old reputation as a city both boring and dangerous, with shopping, dining, and nightlife befitting a world-class metropolis. Travelers will find the city new, exciting, and decidedly cosmopolitan and international.

Virtually all of D.C.'s tourists flock to the Mall—a two-mile long, beautiful stretch of parkland that holds many of the city's monuments and Smithsonian museums—but the city itself is a vibrant metropolis that often has little to do with monuments, politics, or white, neoclassical buildings. The Smithsonian is a "can't miss," but don't trick yourself—you haven't really been to D.C. until you've seen some of the neighborhoods. Washingtonians are avid readers and not just of the news—each Metro car at rush hour is a veritable library. Nonetheless, there is little "D.C. literature" to speak of. The city's culture has always been overshadowed by national politics, and those looking for local flavor will find political works: political chronicles, political histories, political hot air, political historical fiction, and of course political thrillers.

Travel Tips: 1. Safety and Security

2009-10-04T21:11:00.000-07:00

• Use your business address (or business card) in your luggage tags to avoid revealing your home address and phone number.

• Tape a card with your name and address inside every piece of luggage in case the bag is lost and the outside tags get lost.

• Make two photocopies of every important document you'll be carrying -- tickets, driver's license, proof of auto insurance, passport, vaccination certificates, and so on. Carry one copy with you (not with the originals) and give one copy to a friend at home. These copies may be lifesavers if you lose the originals.

• Carry a list of toll-free phone numbers for all of your credit and bank cards in case you have to cancel them (if they're lost or stolen) or if you need to find an ATM to use them at.

• Remove old airline destination tags; they're the main reason bags get lost.

• As soon as you get to your hotel room, look for a map of fire escape routes. Be sure to check that the routes are marked correctly and are accessible.

• During hot weather, never leave an animal or a child in a parked car -- even with the windows open.

• If you can find someone to reliably pick up your mail and newspapers while you are traveling, there is less chance that strangers will know no one is home. Another option is to have delivery temporarily stopped; the Post Office can hold mail, and the price of undelivered newspapers is often credited toward future deliveries.

• When driving in unfamiliar locales, always park in well-lighted areas.

• Never open your hotel door to a stranger without first calling the front desk to see if hotel management has sent someone to your room.

Travel Tips: 2. Planning and Preparation

2009-10-04T21:09:00.000-07:00

• If you are combining business and leisure travel, take a diary to keep careful records of all business expenses for tax purposes. You may also want to take an envelope to hold all receipts.

• Consider trip insurance to protect against losses if you must cancel your trip for any reason.

• Write down confirmation numbers whenever you make reservations. If one isn't offered, ask.

• Leave a detailed itinerary of your trip with someone at home in case you need to be contacted.

• Pack a duffel or ultra light knapsack inside your check-in bag. You may need the extra space later to carry home gifts and souvenirs.

• Use accessories such as scarves and belts to enhance the limited number of outfits you pack.

• Check the weather forecast for your destination before you leave to ensure that you are packing appropriate clothes. Also, don't forget that nearby mountain areas may be much cooler than the valley where your hotel is.

• When making reservations, always ask, "Is this the lowest price you have?" You'll be surprised how often you may qualify for a discount.

• You may have a better chance of getting a seat on a sold-out flight if you call just after midnight when many "reservation holds" expire. The same holds true for train travel.

• No matter how short your trip, pack enough socks and underwear for at least four days.

• Tape a contents list for each suitcase inside the lid. This saves pawing through every bag when you're looking for those argyle golf socks, and makes it easier to repack for your trip home.

• Hope to return "someday" to that ultra-popular hotel? Make a reservation for next year at checkout. You may be able to get a special price. (Just be sure to ask about the amount of cancellation notice required.)

• Call or visit the Web site of the convention and visitors bureau in your destination city three months in advance and inquire about discount coupons and special attractions packages.

• Plan well in advance if you want to bring your pet on vacation. Inquire about pet rules and regulations for every form of lodging and transportation you plan to use. You should also bring proof of vaccinations.

• Pare your packing list by creating mix-and-match outfits using one or two colors.

• If anyone in your party will be using a wheelchair, let the reservations agent know when you are booking travel.

• Find space for a folding travel umbrella.

Travel Tips: 3. Making Travel More Pleasant

2009-10-04T20:54:00.000-07:00

• If there is any way to manage it, bring your own pillows.

• Always have a travel alarm as a backup for the wake-up call service.

• Pre-measured packets of laundry detergent (available at camping supply stores) make it convenient to wash T-shirts and underwear in a hotel sink.

• Don't focus solely on getting to your destination. Be willing to investigate intriguing possibilities that arise en route.

• Attach bright tape to your bags so they're easy to spot when grouped with strangers' bags.

• When you arrive at your hotel, unpack immediately. Hang wrinkled items in a steamy bath to freshen. (Always pack several plastic hangers for contingencies like this.)

• Carry a couple of energy bars to snack on during layovers or long drives.

• Pack a nightlight or leave the hotel bathroom light on. This will avoid bumped shins if you need to get up in the middle of the night.

• To minimize ear-popping discomfort on plane trips, chew gum during descents. If you have a young child who experiences severe ear pain, ask your pediatrician about a decongestant. Feeding a baby, by breast or bottle, can help reduce their ear pain.

• Carry a few spring-type clothespins to secure bulky shower curtains or to pin together drapes that don't close completely.

• Never go anywhere without a small notebook and a pencil. You never know when you'll want or need to write something done -- directions, a phone number, a special store you want to return to.

Travel Tips: 4. Auto Travel Tips

2009-10-04T20:51:00.000-07:00

• Have your car thoroughly checked and serviced before leaving on a long car trip. If you are will be driving in an area with few service centers, inquire ahead about the locations of service facilities along the route. This is especially important if you are driving a rental vehicle.

• Use a highlighter to mark your route on a map. Circle interchanges where you'll be changing roads or directions.

• For long driving trips, call state transportation agencies along your route and request information about highway construction. Plan for detours or delays.

• Allow for rest stops on long drives. Plan on at least a 10-minute break every two hours. You'll drive safer and arrive much more refreshed.

• Remember, when driving a rental car, that you must carry your proof of auto insurance.

Travel Tips: 5. Traveling With Kids

2009-10-04T20:48:00.000-07:00

• Designate a large, soft bag as the toy tote. Fill it with simple games, toys, puzzles, books, and similar items.

• Take along a cleanup kit that includes plastic trash bags, paper towels, and a travel pack of disposable wet wipes.

• Take along easy-to-eat snack foods such as cereal, fruit slices, and juice boxes.

• If you are traveling by air with a child under age 2, take a child restraint seat. Board early, giving yourself time to get situated.

• When taking long car trips with young children, go to bed early the night before and start out long before dawn. This pretty much ensures that the kids will sleep through a major portion of the day's drive.

• To keep bickering between siblings to a minimum, give the children three strikes at the outset of the trip. If any child bickers with another, all of the children are penalized a strike. When you arrive at your destination, if the children have not used all three strikes, they are allowed to do something special.

• For trips where you'll stay at the same hotel or resort for multiple days, choose one with separate educational and recreational programs for children as well as child-sitting services.

• Pack children's shoes inside adult shoes to save space.

Travel Tips: 6. Foreign Travel

2009-10-04T20:37:00.000-07:00

• On trips out of the country, keep medicines in their original, labeled containers and bring a copy of your prescriptions and the generic names for the drugs. If any of your medicines contains a narcotic, get a letter from your doctor indicating your need to take the drug.

• If you are taking your passport, carry an extra photo in case your passport is stolen; already having the phone will make replacement easier.

• If you will be driving, ask your insurer about a special proof of insurance card to take along.

Majestic City : Singapore City

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Coolest City: Amsterdam, Holand

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Fabulous Art City: Rome, Italy

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