Barcelona travel guide
Barcelona is a huge city with several district articles containing sightseeing, restaurant, nightlife and accommodation.
Barcelona is Spain's second largest and the capital of Catalonia, one of the 17 regions that form Spain. The city, Spain's second largest, has a wealth of unique historic architecture and has emerged as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe during the 1990s.
Barcelona has many quarters, but the most important and interesting for visitors are:
* Ciutat Vella - Barcelona's old town, including the medieval Barri Gotic.
* Eixample - modernist quarter, noted for its art nouveau buildings
* Gràcia - historically a working class neighborhood, now rather gentrified, and very lively
* Barceloneta - historically a fisherman's quarter
When to visit:
August is probably the busiest time in Barcelona; at the same time about 10% of shops and restaurants can be found closed
from mid-August to early September: owners go to vacations.
As humidity is high, 19-23 degrees Celsius (not higher) is the most comfortable weather.
Festivals and events
* Festes de la Mercè Around the 24th of September, the main celebrations in the city. Live music during all the day and
night, theatre, life in the streets, castellers, and most of it for free!
* Festes de Gràcia - around the 15th of August, the celebrations from the Gràcia quarter. Many streets are decorated by
the neighbours, live music, food in the street, party all night long.
* Festes de Sants - similar to Gracia's event, but smaller and a bit later in August. If you can't go to the Gracia's, try these!
* Sant Jordi 23rd of April. Is like Saint Valentine's in many places. People give roses and books around the streets. Is
one of the most popular and interesting celebrations in Catalonia.
Casa de l'Ardiaca during Corpus:
* Corpus. Late in May (Corpus Christi day). An egg is put over the fountains (most of them in the churches, and decorated
with flowers), and "magically dances" over the water. Most of the churches are in the city centre: Cathedral's cloister,
Santa Anna, Casa de l'Ardiaca, Museu Frederic Marés, and over 10 more fountains.
* Fira de Santa Llúcia From December 2nd/3rd to December 23rd, to commemorate Sta Llúcia (December 13th). In front of the
Cathedral, is where the Christmas objects are sold. Some places sell Christmas trees, but most of them sell elements for
making the pessebres, the representations of the birth of Jesus that people uses to put at home. These include small
sculptures, wooden pieces and moss used to simulate grass.
* Revetlla de Sant Joan: for weeks on end, listen to kids shoot off caps and fire crackers. Finish the week with San
Juan, head down to the beach for various music stations and all night festivities.
Language:
Barcelona's official languages are Catalan and Spanish. Most signs are indicated in Catalan, although Spanish and English are also widely used. Most inhabitants speak both Catalan and Spanish. Most inhabitants do not speak English or other foreign languages, as is the case in most of Spain. Also, remember that many inhabitants, specially if they were born outside Spain, do not speak Catalan and only know Spanish. As in most European countries any attempt by visitors to use the native language, in this case Catalan and Spanish, is always appreciated. The majority of Catalans instinctively address foreigners in Spanish.
To avoid giving offence, never refer to Catalan as a dialect, which is an offshoot of another language. Catalan is a language in the same way that French, Portuguese, Italian etc are.
I have found a reliable family owned company who provide fully furnished accommodation in Barcelona where they will rent you your choice of 40 apartments by the day, weeks, or months at a much cheaper cost than a hotel room you can have your own Barcelonian Apartment!
Apartments in Barcelona
http://www.lodgingflats.com
Senin, 05 September 2011
Minggu, 04 September 2011
Barbados Restaurants
When people plan their Barbados vacation they usually think Sea and Sun…. Think again. Restaurant and Food standards in Barbados are extremely high, with chefs from the island winning international culinary awards and competitions year after year.
When people plan their Barbados vacation they usually think Sea and Sun…. Think again. Restaurant and Food standards in Barbados are extremely high, with chefs from the island winning international culinary awards and competitions year after year. Good food is very important to the average Barbadian with Many young teens already skilled in preparing food at home and I mean preparing food from scratch not instant meals.
There are many highly trained chefs on the island both expat and local and the range of cuisine is astounding and includes Mexican, Chinese, Thai, French, Italian, Indian, Local as well as Caribbean cuisine.
Whatever your mood for the evening or depth of your pocket there is a restaurant that will suit your needs as they vary from casual atmosphere and very reasonable prices to Posh and oooh la la prices.
There are also the dinner cruises or as I like to call them “floating restaurants” which can be quite large boats complete with floor shows or intimate catamaran cruises both of which can be very romantic.
Also popular on the island is “Oistins”. This is a fishing village which has numerous kiosks which prepare local food for sale at night. The price usually ranges from approximately U.S. $8 – U.S. $13 per person and the taste is just as good as any of the restaurants on the island. On Friday nights there is a party as well with music and dancing that usually lasts until Midnight.
There are quite a few establishments on the island who serve dinner from around 6:30 p.m. and then at about 10:30 you realize that the entire atmosphere has changed to a nightclub atmosphere and will continue in party mode till at least 2:00 a.m. Some close their doors as late as 4 or 5 in the morning.
For nights that you just want to stay at home there is also the option of ordering in. While the selection available is not as large as it would be in bigger countries there are a few restaurants and fast food restaurants that do deliver.
Checking out the restaurants is very important when planning a holiday. Remember little lady is on holiday too she does not want to be stuck with the cooking and washing up afterwards. Also relationships are built on memories and what could be more romantic than intimate dinners together not always possible with our hectic lives.
When deciding on where you will eat there are a lot of consideration to keep in mind such as the type of food served, the price, location as well as ambiance. With this in mind it is no easy task in choosing what is right for you. This is where a good travel guide can really come in handy as they usually have pretty in depth information on there restaurants which can include photographs and menus as well to help you make your choice.
Choosing a local travel guide, that is one that is actually run by locals can be your wisest choice as they usually can give you first hand information on the restaurants as well.
When people plan their Barbados vacation they usually think Sea and Sun…. Think again. Restaurant and Food standards in Barbados are extremely high, with chefs from the island winning international culinary awards and competitions year after year. Good food is very important to the average Barbadian with Many young teens already skilled in preparing food at home and I mean preparing food from scratch not instant meals.
There are many highly trained chefs on the island both expat and local and the range of cuisine is astounding and includes Mexican, Chinese, Thai, French, Italian, Indian, Local as well as Caribbean cuisine.
Whatever your mood for the evening or depth of your pocket there is a restaurant that will suit your needs as they vary from casual atmosphere and very reasonable prices to Posh and oooh la la prices.
There are also the dinner cruises or as I like to call them “floating restaurants” which can be quite large boats complete with floor shows or intimate catamaran cruises both of which can be very romantic.
Also popular on the island is “Oistins”. This is a fishing village which has numerous kiosks which prepare local food for sale at night. The price usually ranges from approximately U.S. $8 – U.S. $13 per person and the taste is just as good as any of the restaurants on the island. On Friday nights there is a party as well with music and dancing that usually lasts until Midnight.
There are quite a few establishments on the island who serve dinner from around 6:30 p.m. and then at about 10:30 you realize that the entire atmosphere has changed to a nightclub atmosphere and will continue in party mode till at least 2:00 a.m. Some close their doors as late as 4 or 5 in the morning.
For nights that you just want to stay at home there is also the option of ordering in. While the selection available is not as large as it would be in bigger countries there are a few restaurants and fast food restaurants that do deliver.
Checking out the restaurants is very important when planning a holiday. Remember little lady is on holiday too she does not want to be stuck with the cooking and washing up afterwards. Also relationships are built on memories and what could be more romantic than intimate dinners together not always possible with our hectic lives.
When deciding on where you will eat there are a lot of consideration to keep in mind such as the type of food served, the price, location as well as ambiance. With this in mind it is no easy task in choosing what is right for you. This is where a good travel guide can really come in handy as they usually have pretty in depth information on there restaurants which can include photographs and menus as well to help you make your choice.
Choosing a local travel guide, that is one that is actually run by locals can be your wisest choice as they usually can give you first hand information on the restaurants as well.
Sabtu, 03 September 2011
Barbados Holidays
When considering a travel holiday to the Caribbean Barbados is considered by many to be the best choice of islands with its beautiful beaches, high standard of living, and amazing people. Whether you are in the market for total relaxation or a holiday packed with activities and parties Barbados will not disappoint.
When considering a travel holiday to the Caribbean Barbados is considered by many to be the best choice of islands with its beautiful beaches, high standard of living, and amazing people. Whether you are in the market for total relaxation or a holiday packed with activities and parties Barbados will not disappoint.
Barbados, located in the southern Caribbean, is the most easterly of the Caribbean islands, located at Latitude 13° north and Longitude 59° 37W. This isolated pear-shaped island is for 21 miles long and 14 miles wide at its widest point, giving it a total land area of 166 square miles.
Barbadians or Bajans as locals call themselves are among the most educated people in the world with free education a right of each and every Barbadian citizen.
Although there a many private doctors and clinics on the island providing excellent care. Health care is also guaranteed to every citizen and the standard of care is high.
The island’s lone airport. The Grantley Adams International Airport, is one of the most modern in the Caribbean and is serviced by many major airlines including Air Canada, American Airlines, British Airways, Air Jamaica, BWIA International and Virgin Atlantic.
This charming island is made up mainly of coral limestone and is fringed with coral reefs. However, the north-eastern part of the island or The Scotland District which runs through the parishes of St. John, St. Joseph and St Andrew is comprised of sandstone and clay. This area is well known for its lush vegetation and spectacular scenery and is covered in most if not all island tours.
The island is characterized by gently sloping; terraced plains which rise west to east to it’s highest point Mount Hillaby at 1100 ft.
Most of the development in the island can be found along the south and west coasts of the island with the Capital Bridgetown at its centre. Most hotels on the island are also located on the south or west coasts of the island, with the south coast being the most active, the hotels on the south coast in general tend to be mostly 2 to 4 star hotels with many no frills accommodation available while the west coast is where most of the luxury hotels are located, including the exclusive Sandy Lane Hotel, although there are exceptions to the rule in both instances.
The crystal clear ocean of Barbados beaches provide the perfect setting for days spent at the beach engaged in water or beach activities including jet-skiing, surfing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, parasailing, sailing, water skiing, snorkeling, wakeboarding and scuba diving. There is also deep sea fishing, boat cruises boat charters available. For the true water enthusiast there are rentals available for almost all disciplines including scuba gear, surfboards, kayaks and kite equipment. Lessons are available for almost all water activities as well.
If you were to travel the coast of the island you would find the calm waters of the west coast meeting the small shore break conditions of the south getting increasingly rougher as we come around the east with the Atlantic waves rolling in and finally the equally rough conditions of the north battering the cliffs.
Transportation on the island is also excellent with the Transport Board which is government run and Route Taxi’s providing excellent coverage to just about every conceivable destination. In addition there are many taxis and Rental Car companies available for those who wish to travel at their own convenience.
The nightlife on Barbados is very varied and ranges from the cultural rum shops to modern nightclubs, beach bars, pubs and also some of the best restaurants to be found anywhere in the Caribbean.
When considering a travel holiday to the Caribbean Barbados is considered by many to be the best choice of islands with its beautiful beaches, high standard of living, and amazing people. Whether you are in the market for total relaxation or a holiday packed with activities and parties Barbados will not disappoint.
Barbados, located in the southern Caribbean, is the most easterly of the Caribbean islands, located at Latitude 13° north and Longitude 59° 37W. This isolated pear-shaped island is for 21 miles long and 14 miles wide at its widest point, giving it a total land area of 166 square miles.
Barbadians or Bajans as locals call themselves are among the most educated people in the world with free education a right of each and every Barbadian citizen.
Although there a many private doctors and clinics on the island providing excellent care. Health care is also guaranteed to every citizen and the standard of care is high.
The island’s lone airport. The Grantley Adams International Airport, is one of the most modern in the Caribbean and is serviced by many major airlines including Air Canada, American Airlines, British Airways, Air Jamaica, BWIA International and Virgin Atlantic.
This charming island is made up mainly of coral limestone and is fringed with coral reefs. However, the north-eastern part of the island or The Scotland District which runs through the parishes of St. John, St. Joseph and St Andrew is comprised of sandstone and clay. This area is well known for its lush vegetation and spectacular scenery and is covered in most if not all island tours.
The island is characterized by gently sloping; terraced plains which rise west to east to it’s highest point Mount Hillaby at 1100 ft.
Most of the development in the island can be found along the south and west coasts of the island with the Capital Bridgetown at its centre. Most hotels on the island are also located on the south or west coasts of the island, with the south coast being the most active, the hotels on the south coast in general tend to be mostly 2 to 4 star hotels with many no frills accommodation available while the west coast is where most of the luxury hotels are located, including the exclusive Sandy Lane Hotel, although there are exceptions to the rule in both instances.
The crystal clear ocean of Barbados beaches provide the perfect setting for days spent at the beach engaged in water or beach activities including jet-skiing, surfing, kiteboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, parasailing, sailing, water skiing, snorkeling, wakeboarding and scuba diving. There is also deep sea fishing, boat cruises boat charters available. For the true water enthusiast there are rentals available for almost all disciplines including scuba gear, surfboards, kayaks and kite equipment. Lessons are available for almost all water activities as well.
If you were to travel the coast of the island you would find the calm waters of the west coast meeting the small shore break conditions of the south getting increasingly rougher as we come around the east with the Atlantic waves rolling in and finally the equally rough conditions of the north battering the cliffs.
Transportation on the island is also excellent with the Transport Board which is government run and Route Taxi’s providing excellent coverage to just about every conceivable destination. In addition there are many taxis and Rental Car companies available for those who wish to travel at their own convenience.
The nightlife on Barbados is very varied and ranges from the cultural rum shops to modern nightclubs, beach bars, pubs and also some of the best restaurants to be found anywhere in the Caribbean.
Jumat, 02 September 2011
Bangkok, der erste Eindruck
Viele haben schon von dieser Metropolen in mitten von Thailand gehört, ohne jedoch zu wissen, welches Gefühl es ist, in mitten von Bangkok zu sein! Die meisten Menschen erleben eine Mischung aus einem Kulturschock und einer Faszination, wenn sie sich zum ersten Mal in Bangkok befinden. Ich selber muss sagen, dass mein erster Besuch nach Bangkok mich sehr geprägt hat. Wenn man mich heute noch fragt, wie ich Bangkok finde, weiß ich nur selten wie ich dieses Gefühl beschreiben soll.
Nach meinem Abi, nahm ich mir also ein Ticket mit einem Freund und in nur wenigen Tage befand ich mich in einem Flugzeug Richtung Thailand, oder besser gesagt Richtung Bangkok!
Bangkok sollte nicht mein Reiseziel sein, sondern meine Startpunkt meiner Thailand Reise. Allgemein wird Bangkok nur selten als Touristenstadt angesehen, sondern als Reise Mittelpunkt, von wo man in allen Ecken von Thailand oder gar Asien gute Transport Verbindung hat.
Nach einem Flug durch die halbe Welt, sind wir im Flughafen in Bangkok um 3 Uhr morgens angekommen, müde von der langen Reise, aufgeregt auf unser Abenteuer. Bevor man noch zu seinen Koffer kommt, begegnet man zum ersten Mal einen Thailänder an der Pass Kontrolle. Die Beamten sind sehr streng und sprechen ein schwer zu erkennendes English. Aber sobald man einen gültigen Passport mit Visa vorzeigen kann, gibt es keinerlei Probleme. Noch an der Passkontrolle wird man von Vorne und vom Profil von einer Mini Camera fotografiert und man nimmt Fingerabdrücke ab, alles in modernster Fassung! Schnell kommt man jedoch mit Taschen und Rucksack zum Taxi, (der auch nicht wirklich English sprechen kann aber immer wieder "okay" ausruft) und versucht in die Straßen Viertel " Khao San Strasse " zu kommen.
Die Fahrt dauerte lange, eine Stunde im Auto, und die Sonne stieg langsam auf. Durch die Provinzen von Bangkok sieht man noch in der Morgendämmerung um 4 Uhr morgens die ersten Schüler in Uniform und Rucksack durch die Strassen laufen. Auch waren schon Märkte offen und es wurde Gemüse und Früchten gekauft. Irgendwie schien Bangkok nicht mehr zu schlafen, trotz der Uhrzeit.
Angekommen in der Khao San Strasse, befanden wir uns plötzlich in Mitten von Bangkok, im Touristen Viertel, wo es angeblich nur von Hostels und billigeren Hotels wimmele. Doch als wir um kurz nach 5 ankamen, waren die Strassen leer, kein Menschenseele auf den Straßen. Doch Die Strassen machten keinen friedlichen Eindruck, sondern eher ein beengten Eindruck. Ein Gebäude klebte an dessen Nebengebäude, Jedes Fenster auf jeden Stock war mit bunten Zeichen und Schildern versehen. Die Strasse war zwar Menschenleer, doch trotzdem voll von Farben und Information. In diesem ganzen Chaos konnte man nicht mal wieder erkennen, wo sich ein Supermarkt befindet, wo sich ein Hostel befindet und in welcher Strasse man sich überhaupt befindet. Die Stille war dazu erschreckend. Wir entschieden uns schnell ein Hostel ausfindig zu machen und unser Schlaf nachzuholen. In unser Zimmer, mit Fenster auf Khao San, legten wir uns schlafen.
Doch schon nach eine Stunde wurden wir von einer Welle von Musik, Lärm, Geräuschen und Rufe geweckt. Schockiert standen wir vor dem Fenster und sahen eine Strasse, die nur von Menschen wimmelte. Khao San war überfüllt von Touristen, Thailänder, Geschäftsmänner, Kinder und Mönche. Der Lärm, der zu unserem Zimmer stieg, war ein Gemisch aus allen möglichen Sprachen, Thailändischer Musik, Gebete und mehr. Auf Khao San befand sich nun von Schritt zu Schritt ein Verkaufsstand nach dem anderen. Gerüche von gebratenem Essen, von Früchte und anderem stiegen in unsere Nase.
Mein erster Eindruck von Bangkok, war schockierend von der Menge von Farben, Menschen, Information, Gerüche, Smoke in der Luft, Autos etc. Ich stand unter einem richtigen Kultur Schock. Bangkok ist eine überfüllte lebendige Stadt, die mit nichts in Europa vergleichbar ist. Auf der anderen Seite fasziniert Bangkok einen jeden Menschen. Diese über 6 Millionen Einwohner Stadt ist voller Leben, Moderne und Kultur. Asien scheint wie ein Zauber auf uns Europäer, die neue Gerüchte, die neue Geschmäcke, die neue Gesichtern… Bangkok ist eine neue Welt und das in aller Größe!
Article Body:
Schon seit der Schulzeit war ich von Thailand und dessen Kultur fasziniert. Mein Traum war es schon immer mit Rucksack einfach mal einen Flug zu bestellen und ein Monat oder gegebenenfalls durch Thailand zu reisen.
Nach meinem Abi, nahm ich mir also ein Ticket mit einem Freund und in nur wenigen Tage befand ich mich in einem Flugzeug Richtung Thailand, oder besser gesagt Richtung Bangkok!
Bangkok sollte nicht mein Reiseziel sein, sondern meine Startpunkt meiner Thailand Reise. Allgemein wird Bangkok nur selten als Touristenstadt angesehen, sondern als Reise Mittelpunkt, von wo man in allen Ecken von Thailand oder gar Asien gute Transport Verbindung hat.
Nach einem Flug durch die halbe Welt, sind wir im Flughafen in Bangkok um 3 Uhr morgens angekommen, müde von der langen Reise, aufgeregt auf unser Abenteuer. Bevor man noch zu seinen Koffer kommt, begegnet man zum ersten Mal einen Thailänder an der Pass Kontrolle. Die Beamten sind sehr streng und sprechen ein schwer zu erkennendes English. Aber sobald man einen gültigen Passport mit Visa vorzeigen kann, gibt es keinerlei Probleme. Noch an der Passkontrolle wird man von Vorne und vom Profil von einer Mini Camera fotografiert und man nimmt Fingerabdrücke ab, alles in modernster Fassung! Schnell kommt man jedoch mit Taschen und Rucksack zum Taxi, (der auch nicht wirklich English sprechen kann aber immer wieder "okay" ausruft) und versucht in die Straßen Viertel " Khao San Strasse " zu kommen.
Die Fahrt dauerte lange, eine Stunde im Auto, und die Sonne stieg langsam auf. Durch die Provinzen von Bangkok sieht man noch in der Morgendämmerung um 4 Uhr morgens die ersten Schüler in Uniform und Rucksack durch die Strassen laufen. Auch waren schon Märkte offen und es wurde Gemüse und Früchten gekauft. Irgendwie schien Bangkok nicht mehr zu schlafen, trotz der Uhrzeit.
Angekommen in der Khao San Strasse, befanden wir uns plötzlich in Mitten von Bangkok, im Touristen Viertel, wo es angeblich nur von Hostels und billigeren Hotels wimmele. Doch als wir um kurz nach 5 ankamen, waren die Strassen leer, kein Menschenseele auf den Straßen. Doch Die Strassen machten keinen friedlichen Eindruck, sondern eher ein beengten Eindruck. Ein Gebäude klebte an dessen Nebengebäude, Jedes Fenster auf jeden Stock war mit bunten Zeichen und Schildern versehen. Die Strasse war zwar Menschenleer, doch trotzdem voll von Farben und Information. In diesem ganzen Chaos konnte man nicht mal wieder erkennen, wo sich ein Supermarkt befindet, wo sich ein Hostel befindet und in welcher Strasse man sich überhaupt befindet. Die Stille war dazu erschreckend. Wir entschieden uns schnell ein Hostel ausfindig zu machen und unser Schlaf nachzuholen. In unser Zimmer, mit Fenster auf Khao San, legten wir uns schlafen.
Doch schon nach eine Stunde wurden wir von einer Welle von Musik, Lärm, Geräuschen und Rufe geweckt. Schockiert standen wir vor dem Fenster und sahen eine Strasse, die nur von Menschen wimmelte. Khao San war überfüllt von Touristen, Thailänder, Geschäftsmänner, Kinder und Mönche. Der Lärm, der zu unserem Zimmer stieg, war ein Gemisch aus allen möglichen Sprachen, Thailändischer Musik, Gebete und mehr. Auf Khao San befand sich nun von Schritt zu Schritt ein Verkaufsstand nach dem anderen. Gerüche von gebratenem Essen, von Früchte und anderem stiegen in unsere Nase.
Mein erster Eindruck von Bangkok, war schockierend von der Menge von Farben, Menschen, Information, Gerüche, Smoke in der Luft, Autos etc. Ich stand unter einem richtigen Kultur Schock. Bangkok ist eine überfüllte lebendige Stadt, die mit nichts in Europa vergleichbar ist. Auf der anderen Seite fasziniert Bangkok einen jeden Menschen. Diese über 6 Millionen Einwohner Stadt ist voller Leben, Moderne und Kultur. Asien scheint wie ein Zauber auf uns Europäer, die neue Gerüchte, die neue Geschmäcke, die neue Gesichtern… Bangkok ist eine neue Welt und das in aller Größe!
Nach meinem Abi, nahm ich mir also ein Ticket mit einem Freund und in nur wenigen Tage befand ich mich in einem Flugzeug Richtung Thailand, oder besser gesagt Richtung Bangkok!
Bangkok sollte nicht mein Reiseziel sein, sondern meine Startpunkt meiner Thailand Reise. Allgemein wird Bangkok nur selten als Touristenstadt angesehen, sondern als Reise Mittelpunkt, von wo man in allen Ecken von Thailand oder gar Asien gute Transport Verbindung hat.
Nach einem Flug durch die halbe Welt, sind wir im Flughafen in Bangkok um 3 Uhr morgens angekommen, müde von der langen Reise, aufgeregt auf unser Abenteuer. Bevor man noch zu seinen Koffer kommt, begegnet man zum ersten Mal einen Thailänder an der Pass Kontrolle. Die Beamten sind sehr streng und sprechen ein schwer zu erkennendes English. Aber sobald man einen gültigen Passport mit Visa vorzeigen kann, gibt es keinerlei Probleme. Noch an der Passkontrolle wird man von Vorne und vom Profil von einer Mini Camera fotografiert und man nimmt Fingerabdrücke ab, alles in modernster Fassung! Schnell kommt man jedoch mit Taschen und Rucksack zum Taxi, (der auch nicht wirklich English sprechen kann aber immer wieder "okay" ausruft) und versucht in die Straßen Viertel " Khao San Strasse " zu kommen.
Die Fahrt dauerte lange, eine Stunde im Auto, und die Sonne stieg langsam auf. Durch die Provinzen von Bangkok sieht man noch in der Morgendämmerung um 4 Uhr morgens die ersten Schüler in Uniform und Rucksack durch die Strassen laufen. Auch waren schon Märkte offen und es wurde Gemüse und Früchten gekauft. Irgendwie schien Bangkok nicht mehr zu schlafen, trotz der Uhrzeit.
Angekommen in der Khao San Strasse, befanden wir uns plötzlich in Mitten von Bangkok, im Touristen Viertel, wo es angeblich nur von Hostels und billigeren Hotels wimmele. Doch als wir um kurz nach 5 ankamen, waren die Strassen leer, kein Menschenseele auf den Straßen. Doch Die Strassen machten keinen friedlichen Eindruck, sondern eher ein beengten Eindruck. Ein Gebäude klebte an dessen Nebengebäude, Jedes Fenster auf jeden Stock war mit bunten Zeichen und Schildern versehen. Die Strasse war zwar Menschenleer, doch trotzdem voll von Farben und Information. In diesem ganzen Chaos konnte man nicht mal wieder erkennen, wo sich ein Supermarkt befindet, wo sich ein Hostel befindet und in welcher Strasse man sich überhaupt befindet. Die Stille war dazu erschreckend. Wir entschieden uns schnell ein Hostel ausfindig zu machen und unser Schlaf nachzuholen. In unser Zimmer, mit Fenster auf Khao San, legten wir uns schlafen.
Doch schon nach eine Stunde wurden wir von einer Welle von Musik, Lärm, Geräuschen und Rufe geweckt. Schockiert standen wir vor dem Fenster und sahen eine Strasse, die nur von Menschen wimmelte. Khao San war überfüllt von Touristen, Thailänder, Geschäftsmänner, Kinder und Mönche. Der Lärm, der zu unserem Zimmer stieg, war ein Gemisch aus allen möglichen Sprachen, Thailändischer Musik, Gebete und mehr. Auf Khao San befand sich nun von Schritt zu Schritt ein Verkaufsstand nach dem anderen. Gerüche von gebratenem Essen, von Früchte und anderem stiegen in unsere Nase.
Mein erster Eindruck von Bangkok, war schockierend von der Menge von Farben, Menschen, Information, Gerüche, Smoke in der Luft, Autos etc. Ich stand unter einem richtigen Kultur Schock. Bangkok ist eine überfüllte lebendige Stadt, die mit nichts in Europa vergleichbar ist. Auf der anderen Seite fasziniert Bangkok einen jeden Menschen. Diese über 6 Millionen Einwohner Stadt ist voller Leben, Moderne und Kultur. Asien scheint wie ein Zauber auf uns Europäer, die neue Gerüchte, die neue Geschmäcke, die neue Gesichtern… Bangkok ist eine neue Welt und das in aller Größe!
Article Body:
Schon seit der Schulzeit war ich von Thailand und dessen Kultur fasziniert. Mein Traum war es schon immer mit Rucksack einfach mal einen Flug zu bestellen und ein Monat oder gegebenenfalls durch Thailand zu reisen.
Nach meinem Abi, nahm ich mir also ein Ticket mit einem Freund und in nur wenigen Tage befand ich mich in einem Flugzeug Richtung Thailand, oder besser gesagt Richtung Bangkok!
Bangkok sollte nicht mein Reiseziel sein, sondern meine Startpunkt meiner Thailand Reise. Allgemein wird Bangkok nur selten als Touristenstadt angesehen, sondern als Reise Mittelpunkt, von wo man in allen Ecken von Thailand oder gar Asien gute Transport Verbindung hat.
Nach einem Flug durch die halbe Welt, sind wir im Flughafen in Bangkok um 3 Uhr morgens angekommen, müde von der langen Reise, aufgeregt auf unser Abenteuer. Bevor man noch zu seinen Koffer kommt, begegnet man zum ersten Mal einen Thailänder an der Pass Kontrolle. Die Beamten sind sehr streng und sprechen ein schwer zu erkennendes English. Aber sobald man einen gültigen Passport mit Visa vorzeigen kann, gibt es keinerlei Probleme. Noch an der Passkontrolle wird man von Vorne und vom Profil von einer Mini Camera fotografiert und man nimmt Fingerabdrücke ab, alles in modernster Fassung! Schnell kommt man jedoch mit Taschen und Rucksack zum Taxi, (der auch nicht wirklich English sprechen kann aber immer wieder "okay" ausruft) und versucht in die Straßen Viertel " Khao San Strasse " zu kommen.
Die Fahrt dauerte lange, eine Stunde im Auto, und die Sonne stieg langsam auf. Durch die Provinzen von Bangkok sieht man noch in der Morgendämmerung um 4 Uhr morgens die ersten Schüler in Uniform und Rucksack durch die Strassen laufen. Auch waren schon Märkte offen und es wurde Gemüse und Früchten gekauft. Irgendwie schien Bangkok nicht mehr zu schlafen, trotz der Uhrzeit.
Angekommen in der Khao San Strasse, befanden wir uns plötzlich in Mitten von Bangkok, im Touristen Viertel, wo es angeblich nur von Hostels und billigeren Hotels wimmele. Doch als wir um kurz nach 5 ankamen, waren die Strassen leer, kein Menschenseele auf den Straßen. Doch Die Strassen machten keinen friedlichen Eindruck, sondern eher ein beengten Eindruck. Ein Gebäude klebte an dessen Nebengebäude, Jedes Fenster auf jeden Stock war mit bunten Zeichen und Schildern versehen. Die Strasse war zwar Menschenleer, doch trotzdem voll von Farben und Information. In diesem ganzen Chaos konnte man nicht mal wieder erkennen, wo sich ein Supermarkt befindet, wo sich ein Hostel befindet und in welcher Strasse man sich überhaupt befindet. Die Stille war dazu erschreckend. Wir entschieden uns schnell ein Hostel ausfindig zu machen und unser Schlaf nachzuholen. In unser Zimmer, mit Fenster auf Khao San, legten wir uns schlafen.
Doch schon nach eine Stunde wurden wir von einer Welle von Musik, Lärm, Geräuschen und Rufe geweckt. Schockiert standen wir vor dem Fenster und sahen eine Strasse, die nur von Menschen wimmelte. Khao San war überfüllt von Touristen, Thailänder, Geschäftsmänner, Kinder und Mönche. Der Lärm, der zu unserem Zimmer stieg, war ein Gemisch aus allen möglichen Sprachen, Thailändischer Musik, Gebete und mehr. Auf Khao San befand sich nun von Schritt zu Schritt ein Verkaufsstand nach dem anderen. Gerüche von gebratenem Essen, von Früchte und anderem stiegen in unsere Nase.
Mein erster Eindruck von Bangkok, war schockierend von der Menge von Farben, Menschen, Information, Gerüche, Smoke in der Luft, Autos etc. Ich stand unter einem richtigen Kultur Schock. Bangkok ist eine überfüllte lebendige Stadt, die mit nichts in Europa vergleichbar ist. Auf der anderen Seite fasziniert Bangkok einen jeden Menschen. Diese über 6 Millionen Einwohner Stadt ist voller Leben, Moderne und Kultur. Asien scheint wie ein Zauber auf uns Europäer, die neue Gerüchte, die neue Geschmäcke, die neue Gesichtern… Bangkok ist eine neue Welt und das in aller Größe!
Kamis, 01 September 2011
Backpacking in Africa: Staying in Hostels
Most people have always wanted to take a backpacking adventure in Africa because of the wide variety of people, culture, animals and landscapes available on the continent.
Backpacking, especially in Africa and other exotic places has been more and moore popular the recent years. Many of us remember the movie "The Beach" a few years ago and it's a fact that backpacking increased after this movie launched. But haven't backpacking been a common way of travelling for students as long as there have been students and travelling? I will answer a clear 'yes' to that question. Hitchhiking and backpacking have been common by students and other low budget travellers for many years now.
Africa is a wonderful continent to go exploring and backpacking through some of the wonderful jungles and mountain ranges. As many a backpacker can tell you one of the best ways to lodge while on an adventure such as this is to take advantage of the many hostels located around the continent that welcome travellers of all ages to spend a night or two with them and immerse themselves in local culture.
Most people have always wanted to take a backpacking adventure in Africa because of the wide variety of people, culture, animals and landscapes available on the continent. In fact, many tour companies specialize in African getaway packages that lead you on a guided tour of some of the most breathtaking aspects of this continent that has a fascinating history and background. When considering a trip to this region it is highly recommended you utilize their services because of certain areas on the continent that can be dangerous to foreigners without local guides.
However, for the most part you will find the people of the African continent to be welcoming and eager to share their culture with you. By taking advantage of hostelling arrangements you will be able to meet fellow backpackers and local from the region that will share with you some of the unique features of the region and also help you immerse yourself in the specialized culture of the region. These low-cost solutions to lodging are often the only choice in many parts of the continent because of the unavailability of hotels and other arrangements.
Backpacking, especially in Africa and other exotic places has been more and moore popular the recent years. Many of us remember the movie "The Beach" a few years ago and it's a fact that backpacking increased after this movie launched. But haven't backpacking been a common way of travelling for students as long as there have been students and travelling? I will answer a clear 'yes' to that question. Hitchhiking and backpacking have been common by students and other low budget travellers for many years now.
Africa is a wonderful continent to go exploring and backpacking through some of the wonderful jungles and mountain ranges. As many a backpacker can tell you one of the best ways to lodge while on an adventure such as this is to take advantage of the many hostels located around the continent that welcome travellers of all ages to spend a night or two with them and immerse themselves in local culture.
Most people have always wanted to take a backpacking adventure in Africa because of the wide variety of people, culture, animals and landscapes available on the continent. In fact, many tour companies specialize in African getaway packages that lead you on a guided tour of some of the most breathtaking aspects of this continent that has a fascinating history and background. When considering a trip to this region it is highly recommended you utilize their services because of certain areas on the continent that can be dangerous to foreigners without local guides.
However, for the most part you will find the people of the African continent to be welcoming and eager to share their culture with you. By taking advantage of hostelling arrangements you will be able to meet fellow backpackers and local from the region that will share with you some of the unique features of the region and also help you immerse yourself in the specialized culture of the region. These low-cost solutions to lodging are often the only choice in many parts of the continent because of the unavailability of hotels and other arrangements.
Rabu, 31 Agustus 2011
Birmingham Stag Do – 5-a-side Football Tournament
When you think of a perfect stag weekend with exciting stag parties and nightlife, the first place that comes to your mind is Birmingham. With its central location and reasonable price, Birmingham is the hottest stag weekend venue. This stag venue boasts of having the largest lap-dancing club in the world, with thrilling nightlife activities, stag friendly bars and curry houses, stag clubs and much more.
When you think of a perfect stag weekend with exciting stag parties and nightlife, the first place that comes to your mind is Birmingham. With its central location and reasonable price, Birmingham is the hottest stag weekend venue. This stag venue boasts of having the largest lap-dancing club in the world, with thrilling nightlife activities, stag friendly bars and curry houses, stag clubs and much more.
Stag Weekend Activity – the fun of a Football Match
If you are looking for some fun filled challenging stag weekend activity, the 5-a-side football tournament in Birmingham is the right option for you. The best part of this stag weekend activity is that you get to work as a team, thus building a sense of team spirit and unity among the players. All information regarding the rules and regulations of this stag event is provided to the individual teams prior to the start of the match. Each team will get to display their skills for 45 minutes with a minimum of three games each. You will get the feel of a real contest, as this stag event will be officiated by fully qualified FA referees.
Do not worry; Chillisauce will not leave you starving. On your arrival, freshly brewed coffee/tea and biscuits will welcome you. A bar and a lounge are there at your disposal throughout the duration of this exciting stag do. That is not all. There is a delicious buffet for all the players. If your team wins, be prepared to grab the engraved tournament cup along with seven individual engraved trophies. If your team is the runners-up, don’t be disappointed, as the team members will be given an engraved trophy each. A case of Carlsberg is presented to the winning team!
Advantages of Stag Do in Birmingham
Birmingham is the best place for a stag weekend where you indulge in stag parties and stag nights. All your needs while you are on a stag weekend in Birmingham will be catered by Chillisauce, a high quality tour operator that specializes in organizing the best stag weekends, parties and stag nights. The main objective of a stag weekend in Birmingham is to enliven and cheer you up, thus bringing out the best in you.
When you think of a perfect stag weekend with exciting stag parties and nightlife, the first place that comes to your mind is Birmingham. With its central location and reasonable price, Birmingham is the hottest stag weekend venue. This stag venue boasts of having the largest lap-dancing club in the world, with thrilling nightlife activities, stag friendly bars and curry houses, stag clubs and much more.
Stag Weekend Activity – the fun of a Football Match
If you are looking for some fun filled challenging stag weekend activity, the 5-a-side football tournament in Birmingham is the right option for you. The best part of this stag weekend activity is that you get to work as a team, thus building a sense of team spirit and unity among the players. All information regarding the rules and regulations of this stag event is provided to the individual teams prior to the start of the match. Each team will get to display their skills for 45 minutes with a minimum of three games each. You will get the feel of a real contest, as this stag event will be officiated by fully qualified FA referees.
Do not worry; Chillisauce will not leave you starving. On your arrival, freshly brewed coffee/tea and biscuits will welcome you. A bar and a lounge are there at your disposal throughout the duration of this exciting stag do. That is not all. There is a delicious buffet for all the players. If your team wins, be prepared to grab the engraved tournament cup along with seven individual engraved trophies. If your team is the runners-up, don’t be disappointed, as the team members will be given an engraved trophy each. A case of Carlsberg is presented to the winning team!
Advantages of Stag Do in Birmingham
Birmingham is the best place for a stag weekend where you indulge in stag parties and stag nights. All your needs while you are on a stag weekend in Birmingham will be catered by Chillisauce, a high quality tour operator that specializes in organizing the best stag weekends, parties and stag nights. The main objective of a stag weekend in Birmingham is to enliven and cheer you up, thus bringing out the best in you.
Selasa, 30 Agustus 2011
Backpacker Travel Insurance
Online Backpacker travel insurance will take care of you during your longer than usual travels…read on.
What is a backpacker travel insurance?
Backpacker travel insurance is not the same as annual holiday insurance, this is mistake many young travelers make when purchasing insurance. Annual holiday insurance is designed for your average holiday maker, who goes abroad a couple of times a year usually for a week or two at a time, and spends most of their time relaxing on the beach. This is very different to the habits of your average backpacker, if there is such a thing as an average backpacker. If you are planning on travelling for long periods of time annual holiday insurance usually doesn't cover your stay out of the country for more than a few weeks at a time.
Backpacker travel insurance initially covers any travel period from a total of 90 days to a one year trip, with a pay as you go benefit enabling you to extend, as often as you want to, the duration of your travel insurance up to 18 months. Online Backpacker travel insurance will take care of you during your longer than usual travels, but will also give you the freedom to fill this time with exciting opportunities as you will automatically be covered for a huge range of hazardous sport that you may get the chance to try.
Hopefully it'll be an adventure of a life time, but you'll be visiting strange places where you may not even speak the language. Don’t worry, you’ll no more feel like a stranger in an unknown world. Find all your information on travel insurance online. Avail of trip cancellation insurance and holiday insurance. Other features include temporary car insurance, health insurance, medical insurance and prescription services.It’s wise to have a good choice for all backpackers and people backpacking around the world, whether you have taken a gap year and taking time out from your studies, business or just a holiday, vacations, working abroad or studying abroad as a student. Get special covers on adventurous sports, skiing, and providing protection for activities such as scuba diving, paragliding, bungee jumping and winter sports.
Baggage and Possessions Cover. Ensure that your policy protects your possession or you will be unable to claim any compensation for stolen or lost items. Your policy should also cover any administrative costs incurred in the event that your passport is stolen and needs to be reissued.
Emergency Medical Cover. This will provide financial cover for any costs you have to make in the event that you need medical attention.
Holiday Cancellation. If due to unforeseen circumstances you have to cancel your trip early, you will be compensated for any monies lost.
Personal Liability. This is legal cover for any accident, injury or harm you might inadvertently inflict on another individual.
Rescue and Repatriation. In the event of a medical emergency rescue, all your costs will paid by your insurer. This should include helicopter rescue.
Travel Delay. Compensation for any money lost due to a delayed departure, though this will often only be paid after you have been delayed for a set length of time outlined in the policy wording.
Always learn to verify the terms and conditions of any insurance. Carry out research online, always compare the Backpacker Travel Insurance insurance package rate and be aware of the fact that a cheap insurance is not the best one. Comparing different insurance packages is quite essential.
What is a backpacker travel insurance?
Backpacker travel insurance is not the same as annual holiday insurance, this is mistake many young travelers make when purchasing insurance. Annual holiday insurance is designed for your average holiday maker, who goes abroad a couple of times a year usually for a week or two at a time, and spends most of their time relaxing on the beach. This is very different to the habits of your average backpacker, if there is such a thing as an average backpacker. If you are planning on travelling for long periods of time annual holiday insurance usually doesn't cover your stay out of the country for more than a few weeks at a time.
Backpacker travel insurance initially covers any travel period from a total of 90 days to a one year trip, with a pay as you go benefit enabling you to extend, as often as you want to, the duration of your travel insurance up to 18 months. Online Backpacker travel insurance will take care of you during your longer than usual travels, but will also give you the freedom to fill this time with exciting opportunities as you will automatically be covered for a huge range of hazardous sport that you may get the chance to try.
Hopefully it'll be an adventure of a life time, but you'll be visiting strange places where you may not even speak the language. Don’t worry, you’ll no more feel like a stranger in an unknown world. Find all your information on travel insurance online. Avail of trip cancellation insurance and holiday insurance. Other features include temporary car insurance, health insurance, medical insurance and prescription services.It’s wise to have a good choice for all backpackers and people backpacking around the world, whether you have taken a gap year and taking time out from your studies, business or just a holiday, vacations, working abroad or studying abroad as a student. Get special covers on adventurous sports, skiing, and providing protection for activities such as scuba diving, paragliding, bungee jumping and winter sports.
Baggage and Possessions Cover. Ensure that your policy protects your possession or you will be unable to claim any compensation for stolen or lost items. Your policy should also cover any administrative costs incurred in the event that your passport is stolen and needs to be reissued.
Emergency Medical Cover. This will provide financial cover for any costs you have to make in the event that you need medical attention.
Holiday Cancellation. If due to unforeseen circumstances you have to cancel your trip early, you will be compensated for any monies lost.
Personal Liability. This is legal cover for any accident, injury or harm you might inadvertently inflict on another individual.
Rescue and Repatriation. In the event of a medical emergency rescue, all your costs will paid by your insurer. This should include helicopter rescue.
Travel Delay. Compensation for any money lost due to a delayed departure, though this will often only be paid after you have been delayed for a set length of time outlined in the policy wording.
Always learn to verify the terms and conditions of any insurance. Carry out research online, always compare the Backpacker Travel Insurance insurance package rate and be aware of the fact that a cheap insurance is not the best one. Comparing different insurance packages is quite essential.
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