Travel Source

Rendez-Vous in the French Riviera

2008-03-08T07:29:00.001-06:00

The southeast corner of France known as Provence – called the French Riviera for its maritime area between Toulon and Nice - is a romantic location with a little bit of everything to offer the traveler.

Provence stretches from Cap Nègre on the Maures ledge, to Cap Brun in the Esteral area, and from Cap Roux near Toulon to the Iles d'Or (the Golden Isles) out in the Mediterranean Sea. Inland, the area runs as far as the Argens and the Verdon River to the north.

The region of Provence is so called because it was one of the first outlying provinces established by the Romans. They called it "Provincia Romana" and it was one of the jewels of the Roman Empire. Gradually, over hundreds of years, the word Provincia changed to Provence. "Provencal" is a dialect still spoken here by many people.

Remnants of the ancient empire still abound. There is the Pont duGard aqueduct that towers 160 feet above your head and a Roman arena still used for bullfights and concerts in Avignon. Arles, with its famous Roman arena, and Frejus (a city named and built by Julius Caesar) still has traces of the port where Caesar's navy once docked.

Everywhere you go, historical sites abound with majestic stone castles sitting regally just off the side of country roads, and you might find the remnants of a pagan temple next to an austere Catholic church with tall spires and towers that took decades to build.

The rich and famous flocks to the Riviera every year, much like the swallows to Capistrano. Walk along the city streets in the spring, or one of the many bustling open-air fruit and vegetable markets, and you might just find yourself passing a famous movie star or fashion model.

Even the names of some of the Riviera's most famous cities bring to mind pictures of white sandy beaches, a turquoise sea, and endless days under a tropical sun -- St. Tropez, Monaco, Nice, Cannes.

Do you enjoy biking and hiking? Swimming? Boating? How about taking a walking tour along narrow cobblestone streets in tiny villages that date back to mediaeval times? A romantic river cruise? Swimming in the Mediterranean Sea? You'll find all of this and more in Provence.

And of course, there are numerous opportunities for experiencing French cooking at its best. Dining in France is almost a religious experience! When dining at someone's home, it's not unusual for dinner to last three to four hours. If the occasion is an especially memorable one, dinner can go until two or three in the morning!

When eating at a French restaurant, it won't matter if you choose a four star restaurant, or a tiny sidewalk café. Your experience is sure to be a gastronomic delight for your palette. And don't even think of rushing through your meal! Each course is presented with a certain formality and ceremony that makes dining a pleasure. And you are always given plenty of time to savor each course and never made to feel as if you must vacate your table quickly for the next diners.

The Mediterranean Sea is breathtaking, whether you're seeing it from the air for the first time as your plane lands in Nice, or while walking along the rocky beaches at Cannes. Its colors change with its moods – turquoise, emerald, and sapphire – and the water is clear and warm for 6 months of the year. In the winter, although it's too cold to swim (except for the most hardy of souls), the Med's mood and color matches the steel gray clouds, and you'll enjoy the practically deserted beaches and the bracing wind as you walk along the shore.

You have many choices for lodging in Provence. Stay at a four-star hotel, and you may find yourself sleeping on crisp Egyptian cotton sheets, in a bed once used by kings and queens. There are charming bed and breakfast cottages, where you'll be served your meals family-style and learn the history behind the best places in the area to visit from your hostess. Or choose a former monastery, where you'll find peace and tranquility, staying in small, quiet rooms with thick stone walls and enjoy walking through outdoor gardens with large fountains where wild rosemary and thyme grow abundantly.

The people of Provence are friendly and helpful. They won't mind if your French is a little rusty, and will go out of their way to talk to you, and answer your questions.

Each season has its own charms. Spring, when the mimosa trees are bursting with the delicate yellow blooms, red poppies grow wild alongside the autoroute and there are fields of tulips to rival those in Holland.

Summer, when succulent fruits are abundant everywhere, the leaves of the grapevines become an endless "sea of green" when viewed from the road, and the Mediterranean sea offers a respite from the tropical heat.

Fall, when the grapevines are heavy and full with their harvest, the red, yellow and oranges leaves clothe the trees in splendid cloaks and community festivals happen almost every weekend.
Winter, when the weather is mild and sunny days are plentiful, but tourists are not.

Provence is an ideal spot for the perfect vacation at any time of year. The area is so spectacular that even visitors who are just "passing through" find it hard to say good-bye.

Riviera Maya, Mexico - Your Next Vacation

2008-03-08T07:27:00.002-06:00

Set in the eastern section of the Yucatan Peninsula and bathed on two sides by the crystal clear turquoise water of the Caribbean lies the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. There situated south of Cancun and stretching down the peninsula coastline is Riviera Maya. Due to its lush jungle, landscape, shoreline and history, Riviera Maya has a variety of attractions to entice travelers. A vacationer in Riviera Maya has a rich selection of either relaxing or stimulating activities to embark on.

Water Activities

Water activities in Riviera Maya run the spectrum from the quiet tranquility of secluded white sandy beaches to thrilling scuba diving. Those who are into adventure and scuba diving will be amazed exploring the breathtaking Great Maya coral reef. Formed due to the warm transparent water, it is the second largest barrier reef system in the world. The reef is home for varieties of corals. It is teeming with numerous kinds or reef-dwelling fish. Not to mention the colorful marine life that can also be found there, such as, sponges, sea anemones, sea cucumbers, starfish, sea urchins, lobsters and crabs. Divers and those who like to snorkel will also be impressed investigating the subterranean freshwater rivers with exceptional cavern structures. The ardent fisherman will take great pleasure in the sport fishing that is available here.

Golf

The area boasts a choice of professionally designed courses for enjoying a challenging round of golf. Along with the magnificent landscape, there are driving ranges, putting greens and club houses. Quality golf merchandise can be purchased in the pro shops.

Spas

During the day, one can visit a spa for ultimate relaxation. Each spa provides its own forms of service from various types of exercises and massage methods, such as Yoga, Shiatsu, Reflexology, hot stone massage and scalp massage to soothing body scrubs and wrap treatments. In addition, you can awaken your senses with aromatherapy baths or indulge in more traditional therapies, like facials, hair treatments, manicures and pedicures.

Natural Parks and Archaeological Sites

While vacationing in Riviera Maya, one ought to visit at least one ecological reserve in the area. The Sian Ka'an biosphere affords the visitor an astonishing view of nature at her finest. It is here that many diverse species of flora and fauna converge into a nature lover's delight. Xcaret EcoPark is both an ecological and archaeological park. Sightseeing is a wonderful cultural indulgence at the ancient Mayan ruins. While most structures are Mayan in origin, there is a Catholic church erected by the Spaniards. Some of the exhibits that can be seen at Xcaret are the Orchid Greenhouse, Butterfly Pavilion, Manatee Lagoon, the Mushroom Farm and Coral Reef Aquarium. You can even swim with bottle-nose dolphins.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is the major town in the region and runs along the beach; offering tourists prominent hotels. The pulse of the city is Fifth Avenue (Quinto Avenida) which is the main street and caters to pedestrians as cars are not allowed. While strolling down Fifth Avenue, you are likely to see artists, musical groups and other unusual sights. Playa del Carmen affords the avid shopper a wide-ranging choice from delightful browsing in boutiques for colorful local handicrafts to picking up the latest trends in European fashions. Most Riviera Maya's restaurants are located in Playa del Carmen and of these the greater part is located on or near Fifth Avenue. You are able to dine on authentic Mexican cuisine, American style or International menus like Italian. After a fun-filled day about town, tourists can partake of intense partying and dancing throughout the night in the bars and night clubs.

Glorious Riviera Maya is a vacation destination that appeals to every taste and desire which is sure to produce warm memories that are able to endure a lifetime. For an outstanding tropical getaway, it is hard to find a better resort location for your next vacation.

10 Tips for Planning Your Next European Vacation

2008-03-08T07:24:00.002-06:00

Europe has always been a popular travel destination. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, there are several important things to keep in mind before calling your travel agent and booking your next vacation:

1. Time of year: While "Paris in the Springtime" sounds very romantic, the truth is that you're liable to spend many days indoors, because the weather can be cold and rainy. On the other hand, the French Riviera in the springtime boasts warm temperatures, sunshine and beautiful places to visit. If you're not sure of weather patterns, check with your travel agent who can advise you on rainy seasons or other weather-related issues for traveling to a specific spot.

2. Your Budget: Decide how much you've got to spend, and don't forget to include extras like tourist attractions, getting around, souvenirs and meals (which are typically more expensive in Europe than in the states -- dinner can cost upwards of 50 Euros per person, especially in metropolitan cities). If your budget is smaller, consider visiting Eastern Europe, looking for packaged tours, or, if you're flexible, book a "last-minute" trip, which can often save you 30% or more. Check out the current exchange rate between your currency and that of the country you'll be visiting, to have a better idea of what your vacation is going to actually cost you. Whenever possible, travel during an off-peak season to save even more.

3. Your secret dreams or "someday" wishes: For most of us, taking a vacation is something we get to do only once a year, and often plan and save the whole year for. So if you have always wanted to visit somewhere or do something special -- why wait? Include it in your next vacation plans.

4. Political Climate: While most countries that rely on tourism make every effort to ensure the safety of tourists, these days it's always a good idea to keep up on the current political climate of the country you're planning to visit, especially if there have been problems in the past.

5. Your own "internal clock": If you prefer sleeping in in the mornings, and "doing your own thing" then a guided tour is probably not for you. Most guided tours start early in the morning, and you're on the go until evening. You may visit several cities in a country or countries within a specified amount of time, and you're required to stay with the group.

On the other hand, if you don't like traveling alone, you enjoy the companionship of others and getting to see as much as possible in the time you've got, a guided tour or cruise may be just the thing for you.

6. How you like to spend your time: Take a little time to think about what you like doing before planning your trip. Do you prefer the water, or the mountains? Lying on the beach, or rock-climbing? Adrenaline rushes or visiting an art museum?

While going outside your comfort zone and trying new things can be a great experience, spending your time doing something that bores you silly or makes you uncomfortable and unhappy just doesn't make sense. Once you know what you want to do, figure out what you'll have time to do. Many times, in an effort to get the "most bang for our buck" we tend to over plan the vacation, and end up needing a vacation from the vacation when we get home! Prioritize your list, and be willing to save some activities or attractions for another trip.

7. Use the resources that are available to make your trip special and save money: Today's travelers have numerous options when planning their vacation. You can use the Internet to find out more about the cities or countries you want to visit, check out prices, even book your flight or hotel room. If you're visiting a place for the first time, check with a travel agent, talk to someone who's "been there, done that" on an Internet Forum, or contact local chambers or commerce or travel councils to get more information about where to go, what to see and what to do.

8. Get organized: You can use trip-planning software, or your own favorite organizing system to organize and plan your trip. Don't forget things like making sure your passport and picture ID are up-to-date, finding out if travel insurance is something you need, and how and where to exchange your money. The more organized you are in the beginning, the better vacation you'll have.

9. Pack lightly: Most of us take too much on a vacation, and end up lugging heavy suitcases and other bags along filled with items that we either don't use or don't need. When planning your trip, look at your wardrobe and pack as lightly as you can. Take only what you'll really need, and remember that if you forget or end up needing something, chances are you can get it once you reach your destination.

10. Have fun! Get organized, make your plans and expect the best. That way, once you're on your way, you'll be able to relax and enjoy yourself. But remember, there are very few "perfect" vacations, so if something does go wrong, try to relax and "go with the flow" as much as possible. Experienced travelers say that sometimes their best vacations have been the ones where the unexpected happened.

Top Ten Tips to Get Through the Airport Checkpoint Quickly

2008-01-12T14:52:00.000-06:00

Seems travelers love to hate the screeners at the airport. Keep in mind, the front line personnel that you see as you make your way toward the gate are just the worker bees. They’re not Congress and they’re not the big wig decision makers. If at times they seem like robots, deviating very little from their spcheel, it’s because they have procedures that they must follow and deviating from the standard operation procedure is not an option.

There are a number of things you can do yourself to speed things along. Listed below are the top ten tips to help your visit to the airport security checkpoint hassle-free.

1. Have your boarding pass and government issued photo ID readily available. Some airports have someone checking your boarding pass and ID as you first approach your concourse, then shortly thereafter there is another employee asking for the same thing. Actually they may be asking for the same thing, but these employees, often one a federal employee and one a private company employee, while looking at the same thing, aren’t looking for the same thing. Each person has a different role to fill. If you have to dig in your purse or wallet for these items, that will increase the wait time. Ensure your boarding pass is pulled out of the airline envelope.

2. Wear tennis shoes or known airport friendly footwear so you’ll avoid setting off the alarm on the walk through metal detector. Often the screeners will encourage you to take your shoes off before passing through the metal detector. What many passengers fail to recognize is that many, many shoe manufacturers place steel shanks (supports) in the souls of the shoes. Just because you don’t see metal, doesn’t mean they are metal-free.

3. Laptop computers and video cameras that use cassette tapes, not digital cameras, need to come out of their carrying case prior to passing through the x-ray machine. Have these items out of the case before you reach the table to divest your items.

4. Only undeveloped film with a speed of 800 or higher should be hand checked. All other disposable cameras, film of 100, 200 or 400 speed and digital cameras are safe to pass through the x-ray. Know your film speed before reaching the x-ray machine.

5. If you have an inkling that your belt buckle or larger metal watch may set off the metal detector, remove them while you’re waiting in line and have them ready to place into a bin.

6. Don’t wear pants or suspenders that contain a lot of metal. If you can’t remove the metal prior to passing through the metal detector, you’ll be sent for additional screening, thus increasing your wait time.

7. Most smell jewelry such as rings, necklaces and earrings will not set off the alarm. Don’t bother wasting time removing them.

8. Yes your fanny pack, hidden money belt and wallet on a string around your neck must pass through the x-ray, have it ready to place into a bin.

9. Leave all tools, Swiss army knives, pointed end scissors, and bladed corkscrews in your checked bag. You may not bring them onboard the aircraft in your carry-on bags. If your bag must be searched to find these items, it’s definitely going to increase your wait time.

10. Strollers and pet carriers need to pass through the x-ray machine. Remove your children and pets from this equipment prior to reaching the x-ray.

If you’re standing in line merely waiting for your turn to walk through, use this time to your advantage. If everyone were already ready to walk though the metal detector BEFORE it was actually their turn, the wait times would be greatly decreased.

Next time you fly, instead of grumbling about the procedures that neither you nor the front line screeners can change, try having some fun, being prepared and perhaps even thanking the screeners for doing their part of keeping the aircrafts safe.