Discover the Aura of old world charm and true elegance. Let your senses be overloaded with ample blends of colours, smells, tastes and sounds in this mixing pot of cultures.
Become acquainted with one of the most vibrant regions of the world, which when visited appears to be in a brilliant vision of technicolour.
India is fulled with delights as varied and diverse as the sparkling white sand beaches of Goa, the magnificent Royal Palaces in Rajasthan, and the foothills of the Himalayas. India blends Raj, Edwardian and contemporary architecture, with brightly coloured saris and bustling markets. World famous monuments like the white marble Taj Mahal have never been surpassed, and historically India is steeped in wonderful traditions, tales and anecdotes.
Sri Lanka is a teardrop island with a glittering tapestry of culture and nature. Travel to the interior for fascinating archaeological treasures and world heritage listed sites. Beautiful sandy beaches beckon whilst you watch traditional fisherman on stilts fishing the azure seas.
Capture the loveliness of elephants bathing in rivers, lush coconut groves and spice gardens - this bewitching country has unique charm.
A double string of pearls make up the atolls of the Maldives. Crystal blue waters sparkle around private coral islands in the clear turquoise sea - the Maldives are a dream come true.
These idyllic islands have blissful surroundings of translucent waters and deserted beaches of pure white sands. Such natural beauty has inspired some of the most ingenious hotel design ever experienced. The Maldives have become one of the world's most glamorous destinations.
(Pinpoint)
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Don't lose your Luggage
Making sure your luggage arrives when you do – and how to cope when it doesn’t
In the last year alone, more than 42 million pieces of luggage are mishandled or delayed, costing the global industry upwards of AUD5.8 billion annually.
An average of over 115, 000 bags were mishandled on any given day last year according to SITA, the IT provider which tracks baggage information for airlines and passengers across 220 countries and territories, the added pressure of tighter security and less carry-space brings further challenges.
Yet, according to Karen Waples of local Brisbane Travelscene American Express agency, TRAVELSCENE TAIGUM, there are a number of simple steps you should take to minimise the chances of your luggage disappearing, and maximise your chances of coping in the event that it does.
“The obvious first step is to ensure that you pack the right stuff. Never ever pack valuables in bags which are to be checked on to the plane,” Karen said. “And do yourself a favour – make sure you pack a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage so that if an airline does lose your checked bags, at least you will have a fresh set of clothes to wear.”
“Try to fly direct and arrive early to check in,” Karen said. “Connections and extra flights increase the risk of lost luggage as does checking in late.”
“Pay attention to the bags you’re checking. Make a note of their brand, size, colour and style and, if you’re travelling to a country where you don’t speak the language, take photos of your bags and carry them with you, ideally on your phone or your digital camera,” Karen said.
“Take the time to remove any old destination or arrival stickers or tags to reduce the possibility of misdirection
The differing luggage restrictions can also create confusion.
“If you’re travelling overseas, and especially if you’re connecting to a low-fare airline in Europe or Asia and the USA, make sure you check each airline’s limits. Some airlines such as Ryanair, for example, now charge for each piece of checked luggage. It’s also worth remembering that the QANTAS’ allowance is amongst the most generous in the world. I’m aware of many an Aussie traveller who have found themselves in the US only to learn that their suitcases are too large for internal flights.”
So what do you do if your luggage does disappear? Karen says a little bit of preparation, a couple of deep breaths and a lot of persistence is what’s required.
“If the worst happens, and you arrive but your luggage doesn’t, then don’t leave the airport until you’ve filed a missing luggage report with as much detail as possible. Make sure you provide contact information for the next 48 hours and that you have the proper forms to lodge a lost-baggage claim.”
“It’s important to understand that if your bags are simply delayed, the airlines don’t legally owe you any compensation. However, if you need to purchase certain items in the interim, such as toiletries and reasonably-priced clothes and underwear, you may be able to claim reimbursement. If your bags are really lost, travel insurance will pay you far more handsomely than the airlines which generally use the International Air Transport Association guidelines for compensation. Travelscene offers a fantastic range of insurance packages which cover delayed and missing luggage.”
Travelscene American Express’ Top Tips for Safe Luggage:
1. Pack the right stuff
2. Fly Direct and Check-in Early
3. Tag your bags with Name and Phone Numbers inside and out
4. Know Your Bags – make sure they stand out and that you have a digital
picture of them on your camera or phone, particularly if you don’t speak the
local language
5. Check the baggage allowances of each airline your travelling on
6. If you arrive but your luggage doesn’t, don’t leave until you’ve filed a
missing luggage report
In the last year alone, more than 42 million pieces of luggage are mishandled or delayed, costing the global industry upwards of AUD5.8 billion annually.
An average of over 115, 000 bags were mishandled on any given day last year according to SITA, the IT provider which tracks baggage information for airlines and passengers across 220 countries and territories, the added pressure of tighter security and less carry-space brings further challenges.
Yet, according to Karen Waples of local Brisbane Travelscene American Express agency, TRAVELSCENE TAIGUM, there are a number of simple steps you should take to minimise the chances of your luggage disappearing, and maximise your chances of coping in the event that it does.
“The obvious first step is to ensure that you pack the right stuff. Never ever pack valuables in bags which are to be checked on to the plane,” Karen said. “And do yourself a favour – make sure you pack a change of clothes in your carry-on luggage so that if an airline does lose your checked bags, at least you will have a fresh set of clothes to wear.”
“Try to fly direct and arrive early to check in,” Karen said. “Connections and extra flights increase the risk of lost luggage as does checking in late.”
“Pay attention to the bags you’re checking. Make a note of their brand, size, colour and style and, if you’re travelling to a country where you don’t speak the language, take photos of your bags and carry them with you, ideally on your phone or your digital camera,” Karen said.
“Take the time to remove any old destination or arrival stickers or tags to reduce the possibility of misdirection
The differing luggage restrictions can also create confusion.
“If you’re travelling overseas, and especially if you’re connecting to a low-fare airline in Europe or Asia and the USA, make sure you check each airline’s limits. Some airlines such as Ryanair, for example, now charge for each piece of checked luggage. It’s also worth remembering that the QANTAS’ allowance is amongst the most generous in the world. I’m aware of many an Aussie traveller who have found themselves in the US only to learn that their suitcases are too large for internal flights.”
So what do you do if your luggage does disappear? Karen says a little bit of preparation, a couple of deep breaths and a lot of persistence is what’s required.
“If the worst happens, and you arrive but your luggage doesn’t, then don’t leave the airport until you’ve filed a missing luggage report with as much detail as possible. Make sure you provide contact information for the next 48 hours and that you have the proper forms to lodge a lost-baggage claim.”
“It’s important to understand that if your bags are simply delayed, the airlines don’t legally owe you any compensation. However, if you need to purchase certain items in the interim, such as toiletries and reasonably-priced clothes and underwear, you may be able to claim reimbursement. If your bags are really lost, travel insurance will pay you far more handsomely than the airlines which generally use the International Air Transport Association guidelines for compensation. Travelscene offers a fantastic range of insurance packages which cover delayed and missing luggage.”
Travelscene American Express’ Top Tips for Safe Luggage:
1. Pack the right stuff
2. Fly Direct and Check-in Early
3. Tag your bags with Name and Phone Numbers inside and out
4. Know Your Bags – make sure they stand out and that you have a digital
picture of them on your camera or phone, particularly if you don’t speak the
local language
5. Check the baggage allowances of each airline your travelling on
6. If you arrive but your luggage doesn’t, don’t leave until you’ve filed a
missing luggage report
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
FREQUENT TRAVELLER - Control the cost of Communications
If you don't plan ahead, staying in touch while travelling can cost a small fortune. Expensive roaming fees on your mobile phone, wi-fi charges to check your emails using your laptop, and even just receiving calls and texts on your mobile can all add up to a lot more than you expect.
The key here is planning, and any time invested in this area will definitely pay off. Select the best mobile plan for international calls and plan ahead for wi-fi access if you plan to use the Internet a lot. A global wi-fi access deal may save significant money, but be aware that hotels are becoming very competitive with in-house wi-fi charges and it is always worth checking out the rate before logging on with your personal modem.
Travelscene American Express Taigum can provide your with International SIM cards to help reduce your communication costs. Ask us about Backchat Mobile Control
The key here is planning, and any time invested in this area will definitely pay off. Select the best mobile plan for international calls and plan ahead for wi-fi access if you plan to use the Internet a lot. A global wi-fi access deal may save significant money, but be aware that hotels are becoming very competitive with in-house wi-fi charges and it is always worth checking out the rate before logging on with your personal modem.
Travelscene American Express Taigum can provide your with International SIM cards to help reduce your communication costs. Ask us about Backchat Mobile Control
Monday, November 23, 2009
Tasmanian Wilderness Experience
Cradle Mountain Lodge is an iconic, unique wilderness experience, and the closest you can be to the entrance of the spectacular World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain - Lake St. Clair National Park.
Set unobtrusively amidst the wilderness are 86 private timber cabin each providing every required comfort, some with spa bath and log fire. The outdoor environment caters to every fitness level with more that 20 walking trails around the Lodge. There are mountains waiting to be trekked, trails waiting to be explored by horseback or mountain bike and fish waiting to be captured. Located in a region renowned for its sensational food and wine you will be tempted to taste the local produce in addition to savouring the breathtaking scenic surrounds. Dining at the Highland Restaurant is recognized as one of Tasmania's premier dining experiences, while Tavern Bar and Bistro is casual with a warm rustic atmosphere topped off by a roaring log fire. ( Freestyle )
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Hayman Island - Luxury Resort
One of the leading luxury resorts of the world, beautiful Hayman Island laps the waters of Australia's breathtaking Great Barrier Reef.
Stylish elegance reflects the acclaimed tranquil surrounds of this private island. Throughout 4 wings of the resort, guests can hide away in their own beautifully appointed room, suite penthouse or beach villa, each with unique and peaceful outlooks. Superb restaurants offer the finest in contemporary Australian, exotic Oriental, al fresco Italian and modern European cuisine. The Great Barrier Reef location allows easy access to this world heritage listed site with colorful coral, tropical fish, snorkelling, diving and fishing surrounding the island. Swim in the salt-water, heated freshwater Lagoon Pool, or the beach with catamaran sailing, windsurfing and paddle skiing, all complimentary. For the energetic, there's tennis, badminton and billiards, all compliments of Hayman. Spa Chakra offers and exclusive selection of personally-tailored beauty and well being programs.
(Freestyle Collection)
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Australia and Pacific
The world's largest island and its Pacific neighbours offer a diversity of experiences to amaze even the most seasoned traveler.
Australia's most desirable experiences are tucked away in some of the country's most spectacular terrain. Be immersed in the splendor of the Barrier Reed or the raw wilderness of the Kimberleys. Relax in secluded retreats of the Margaret River or enjoy pure indulgence with champagne and sensational views of the sun setting over Uluru. For quiet contemplation, take advantage of the geographically amazing vistas of the Blue Mountains or Marine haven Ningaloo Reef. Australia will delight your senses and palate with the finest wines and gourmet cuisine - a perfect way to relax after a day of discovery.
Nearby, and now one of the world's most desirable travel destinations, is New Zealand, where private retreats allow you to discover an unspoilt heritage. It's a land of dramatic contrasts and natural beauty - from the rolling green hills and tranquil beaches of the North Island to the dramatic alpine and fjordland scenery of the South Island. Luxurious hideaways are all over New Zealand. Some by the crystal clear waters of lakes or private streams, some are on the doorstep of magnificent golf courses and other by the backdrop of the impressive coastline or snowcapped peaks. Enjoy classically inspired food with a glass of vintage wine, sitting beside a crackling log fire. New Zealand is a rich, seductive retreat, far removed from the bustle of this busy world.
Just across the ocean is the Pacific - an untouched paradise. Translucent lagoons, with abundant sea life, white sandy beaches and superb over-water bungalows ensure relaxation. On a clear night, the sky sparkles with stars that quiver like a mirage on the horizon, and the sea breeze warms this untouched paradise, while you enjoy candle lit dinners on soft sand beaches. The elegance and romance of the South Pacific will remain forever in your dreams
The largest cruise ship in the World
THE world's biggest cruise ship has caused traffic jams in the US as hundreds of people clambered to get their first glimpse. The 225,000-ton megaship the Oasis of the Seas arrived at its new home at Port Everglades after its maiden voyage from Finland.
Standing sixteen decks high and rising 20 stories, crowds applauded as the Oasis of the Seas pulled in accompanied by a flotilla of small boats and doused by water cannons.
Carrying crew and construction workers, the vessel braved high seas and hurricane force winds in the North Atlantic Ocean along its 14-day journey from Finland.
In Denmark the giant cruise liner came within half a meter of a bridge the Great Belt Fixed Link on its maiden voyage to Florida.
The Oasis of the Seas can accommodate 6360 passengers, 2160 crew and offers a world of luxuries, including: 21 swimming pools, an ice rink, an aqua park, a casino, a zip line and real trees.
With six levels of staterooms, a turf-covered chip and putt golf course, the world's first open-air amphitheater at the stern, two surfing simulators and a boardwalk surrounded by restaurants, it is more like a giant ritzy resort than a cruise ship.
Oasis of the Seas will make its four-night maiden voyage from Fort Lauderdale to Labadee in Haiti on December 1.
(news.com.au)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
