Panama - One of the Best Places to Travel to

If you're looking for the best places to travel and spend some quality time for leisure and relaxation, then Panama is one perfect destination spot that you should add to your itinerary. This country is currently deemed as the gem of Central America as it has a booming economy that can be quite a challenge for other third world countries. Breathtaking scenery and enjoyable outdoor activities coupled with low-cost of living definitely make this country one of the best places to travel to in the world.

Avail a Panama tour and travel to Panama City first. Visit the country's famous Panama Canal where most of the trade and shipping activities in the country are done. The Panama Canal is one reason why travelling to Panama is truly worthwhile. This famous canal is the backbone of Panama and has always been significant to the country's economic growth. It is one landmark of the world that you should definitely explore.

While you're in Panama, take the opportunity to meet and greet the many American expats who have already made the move to Panama. You can take a Panama relocation tour for instance, so you get firsthand information on what it's like to live in Panama. Meeting the expats is another reason why Panama is worth seeing as they can give you a lot of insights about retirement and travel planning. Through these people, you will discover that Panama is more than just a place for vacation, but also the retirement haven of many American and European expats.

Another reason that makes Panama definitely worth visiting is so you can discover the low-cost of living in this country. Food, clothing and other basic needs are all priced cheaply; thus, your vacation expenses will be very low. Healthcare is likewise very cheap at amazingly high standards. The Hospital Punta Pacifica, for one, is a common destination of medical tourists. Many people go to Panama for inexpensive medical procedures that are comparable to medical treatments in the US, Canada and the UK. You can try getting a doctor's consultation for only $10 while you're in Panama.

Another reason why Panama is one of the best places to travel to is because the country has so much to offer in terms of culture, nature and its people. The Panamanians are warm and gracious as you meet them while visiting old museums and historic buildings and towns. Those who love nature are also in for a treat as the country has a tropical rainforest that's well-preserved. You can go on a hike along a nature trail, climb a mountain, do zip lining, swim at the beach or ride a horse. There are plenty of things to do to satisfy that quench for adventure and enjoy nature at its finest.

Panama has become the second home of many Americans and Europeans. More than 1,000 expats have come to live in Panama permanently. This alone affirms that Panama is definitely one of the best places to travel to and consider as a place for retirement. The country's real beauty comes not just from one facet of its land but in many different forms. It's definitely one of the best places to travel to among other countries in the world.

Tips and Suggestions to Find Information About Cheap Hotel Deals

Staying in hotels is expensive, but sometimes we cannot simply avoid it. You might have to check in to a hotel room for business, family, personal, and other reasons. In this post, we shall point out some of the best ways to find cheap hotel deals.

Finding a good hotel can be a little hard, because you would want a place that is safe yet affordable. The tariff plans will vary from hotels to hotels, according to their categories, and the services they offer. Hospitality industry is booming, and hoteliers are coming up with attractive discounts and deals to encourage more and more guests to stay with them.

Ideally, you will have to make reservations for your hotel rooms in advance, in order to enjoy the available offers and best deals. You could also keep a track of hotel tariffs online too, especially if you have plans of travelling to some place in the near future. Websites like the Hotels.com can be very resourceful for finding cheaper hotels.

There are some smart ways to check for the cheapest rates on hotel rooms, some of the suggestions and tips are mentioned below:

Travel agents:
Travel agents can be of very great help to plan your entire trip including travel, shopping, local sightseeing, car rentals, and accommodation. They also offer all inclusive family tour packages for competitive prices. They can help you find the best hotels according to your needs and budget.

These days most of the top travel agencies like the Travelodge UK also serve their customers from their official websites. Now you don't have to call them up, or drive all the way to their offices to book your tickets.

You can easily search for hotel availability on their websites, and plan your travel accordingly. They also come up with seasonal deals and discounts, which can help you in saving a significant amount of money on your travel and accommodation.

Cheap hotel finder websites:
Cheap hotel finder websites can help you easily locate or find decent and safe hotels. They provide you with smart online search tools, where you can search for availability of hotel rooms for a certain range of dates, and according to the destination of your choice. The search results will give you a very good idea about the hotels that will perfectly suit your budgets.

These types of hotels search directories are more convenient to the users, because you won't have to visit each and every hotel websites individually to check the prices. Travelling to a new place can be a little confusing, which is why you should make it a point to book your travel and accommodation in advance.

You could also check out the travel websites to learn more about the places that you are visiting. There you will get to learn more about the place from the past experiences of others. That will help you in making the informed choices, and bagging great hotel deals at the same time

Smart Ways to Pay for Vacation Rentals

When you are planning your vacation and want to stay in the perfect vacation rental you will likely be asked to put down a payment securing your reservation, or be asked to pay a security deposit in advance.

This can seem like a bad idea in a world where identity thieves run rampant and no online payment site seems secure, but there are smart ways to pay for vacation rentals without having to worry. Here are a few tips for keeping your finances safe while still being able to pay for your perfect vacation rental.

If you have found a vacation rental property you would like to rent do a bit of research to make sure it is legitimate. Call the numbers on the website or listing; if no one picks up on the other end even if you have tried multiple times, it might not be a good place to send your money. Generally properties where the owner or real estate agent is communicating with you, the information about the vacation rental is accurate and up to date, and the process of renting the property is spelled out clearly, you likely don't have to worry about making payments safely.

Another way to tell if a property is legitimate is by looking at the reviews online from a variety of sources. If there aren't any reviews, take that as a warning. Make sure the property you are looking at has been visited by tourists before and is recommended highly.

Credit cards are a widely accepted form of payment for vacation rentals and can be used to make reservations or put down a security deposit online. Credit cards are a relatively safe way to make payments as companies can be verified for authenticity and you have the ability to call your credit card company and reverse a payment should something go wrong during the process.

An increasingly common way to pay for vacation rental properties protects the client and the owner by placing the deposit and other fees into a neutral account which holds the payment until you have arrived at the property and made sure everything is to your liking. This is typically called a 'trust but verify' payment, which keeps the owner or real estate agent honest about the property they have for a vacation rental and keeps the money you are putting down to rent the property safe until you have a chance to explore it.
When in doubt, purchase trip insurance. You might have to tweak the terms and conditions to cover any accommodation troubles you might have, but getting travel insurance can save you from a world of trouble should anything go wrong on your vacation.

Finally, stay away from wires and direct money transfers unless you know the person you are sending your money to. Once you use this method your money is gone, and if you have chosen the wrong vacation rental owner to trust you might find yourself without a lot of money and no vacation rental.

Things To Do For Your Summer Vacation

When you are looking for things to do for summer vacation, you probably think of the beach, lake, mountains or some other common destination that you visit almost every year. Why not try something different? With just a little research on the Internet, you'll find there are a lot of choices, whether you're looking for entertainment, rest and relaxation, or a little of both.

Here are just a few ideas of things to do this summer:

Go to a Museum You've Never Visited
No matter where you live, there is probably a museum you haven't been to. If it is a bit of a distance away, then you can combine a hotel stay and add in some time just for sight seeing the area.

Take Walks & Explore
Many metro areas have several public parks of varying sizes. Look up all the parks in a give area and find out about their walking trails. Map out a plan to follow some or all of the park trails over a period of days. It's a great way to take in new scenery and get some great exercise.

Spend a Long Weekend in a Big City
If you live in a big city, pick a different one! Book seats at a concert or play, enjoy a new dining experience, visit museums or art galleries. You should find a lot of resources for larger cities on the Internet. For example, if you look for "Things to do in New York", you'll find a lot of options to choose from.

Stay at a Working Ranch
Rather than a big city, you should also consider going to a working farm or ranch. There are several of these that operate as tourist attractions and give you the chance to stay in a nice, relaxing atmosphere. You'll also get to experience farm life by learning to ride horses, herd cattle, harvest crops, and much more.

Visit a Historical Town
Many towns on the east coast of the United States are rich with history. Places like Charleston, SC and Manteo, NC have lots of sights and attractions that take you through time.

Pick a Cross Country Route, and Drive
You don't have to have a final destination in mind. Just plan how many days you have, get out a map, and design a route that will take you to all different places. You will need to make sure there are acceptable hotels and restaurants along the way, and plan your stops accordingly.

It's not hard to find different things to do during the summer months. A few Internet searches will give you more choices than you can imagine. Have fun!

Best Spain Beaches! - Costa Brava

Barcelona has a long beautiful history left behind by not only the Roman Times but also by the Arabs that had once inhabited the region. Barcelona is located on the Iberian Peninsula. Within this Peninsula lay the cities of Girona, Tarragona, Lleida, as well as Barcelona itself. The region that these cities combined make up is call Catalunya, which gives Spain a beautiful shore line that goes half way down the Mediterranean at the community of Valencia from the beginning at the French Border. Within these areas you’ll find a great culture that caters to the tourist, but which will also reveal to you awesome cathedrals, temples, architecture, and a brave strong people.

You and your family will be able to enjoy an extensive coastline during your visit to Barcelona, much of which Spain has been able to capitalize on with lavish hotels, and beach resorts. However the fact that Spain is home to an amazing culture and architectural grandeur, the city has been able to flourish it’s tourism business.

You’ll likely hear much about and want to see the famous Sagrada Familia on your travels to Barcelona. This is actually, if you’re not fluent in Spanish what is known as the Sacred Family. Spain’s renowned artist and architect Antonio Gaudi, who planned the beautiful church for the needy in 1883, created it. He collaborated with other architects on the project, and received donations and charity from people who were also passionate about the project. He wanted the masterpiece to be original, and therefore decided to change the bell towers from the normal square tower to one that was rounded off. As well, he thought that a Swiss cheese look would accent them well.

This cathedral is still not finished at this point. After Gaudi’s death in 1926, the project was taken over for a short time but nobody has ever been able to continue on the project to finish mostly because of funding. However the bell towers and some other parts are finished.

Gaudi was very prolific in his work and all around the city other works by him can be found. These works include Guell Park, the Mila House, and La Pedrera. However, Gaudi will always be known for creating the impressionable and highly respected Sagrada Familia.

When you arrive at the airport in Barcelona you’ll be able to visit the tourist information booth and find all sorts of great history to visit during your stay in Barcelona. You can also find this information on the internet, as well as your own public library, or nearest bookstore.

The information at the tourist booth in Spain is usually free and offered in different languages. You’ll be able to find sources of entertainment, dining, as well as historic monuments and sites that people often look for when visiting the area. You’ll want to perhaps try traveling away from the main city to the coastal cities such as Costa Brava as well for some beach fun.

There is plenty to see and do in Barcelona and you’ll will likely never be bored on your trip. You’ll enjoy all of the great accommodations as well as Spain’s uncanny reputation for taking care of their tourists which helps to drive the countries economy. Enjoy your trip to Barcelona.

Copied with permission from: http://plrplr.com/24159/the-beaches-of-costa-brava-spain-for-the-family/

Travel Savings For United Kingdom Sites

When you are planning your next trip to the United Kingdom, make sure you take advantage of the travel savings for United Kingdom tourist sites. These sites might include visiting the hundreds of British castles and stately houses, through which tour packages will give you the best price. The sheer number of people will give you the savings, and the sites will give you the history.

 The British Tourist Authority will point the way to the choices in travel savings for United Kingdom sites. They offer quick links to flights and transportation sites in Great Britain that will take you to such airports as the famous, Heathrow International Airport, where travel to other points of interest are available.

There are terrific travel savings for United Kingdom sites offered in the many forms of transportation that is available in Great Britain. The British Tourist Authority has all of the links that will conveniently take you to all available public transportation sites, rental car sites, taxi companies, and companies that will transport you direct.

When you can travel the best routes between all tourist destinations to be found in Great Britain, then the travel savings for United Kingdom sites will be found in reduced rail ticket costs, and rental car costs, because you will know where you are going and will not have to spend money on petrol unnecessarily.

Sightseeing offers great travel savings for United Kingdom sites, because you see more of Great Britain than you would ever think possible. Convenient city maps can be obtained that will give the placement of every castle in the United Kingdom. If you do not care to drive, you can use the public transportation and save money in the fares that are cheaper than any other travel mode being offered.

Some of the unofficial guides to Great Britain will give you a hint about the travels savings for United Kingdom sites that will give you a first-hand perspective on what things there are to do at these sites, because these unofficial guides are written by people who have done the travels already. These people might be Londoners, or people from Peoria, Illinois and any other location in the world.

By learning from their personal experiences you will know of other unadvertised travel savings for United Kingdom sites that cropped up from conversations with proprietors of local pubs and eateries that were on your list of attractions to visit while you were in Great Britain.

At attractions such as Buckingham Palace, you can get travel savings for United Kingdom sites from the tour guides. They know the best places, with the best deals for all your needs that are within walking distance of the Thames River, and the business districts. There are millions of people that in Great Britain. See where they go, and how they bargain for prices. Some of the ways will surely delight you.

The locals are the best source of information about travels savings for United Kingdom sites. Talk with them, and you might even get some advice about the local delicacies such as fish and chips, and which size lager is proper for a lady to drink. The United Kingdom is full of friendly people who do not mind pointing out a good place to eat at a reasonable price.

Copied with permission from: http://plrplr.com/24135/travel-savings-for-united-kingdom-sites/

Unique 5 Tips For Easy Air Travel

There’s no denying that it has become more and more difficult to fly without running into snags or problems with the airport or the airlines. Enduring the line at the security check point in some airports is enough to put some passengers in a bad mood. However, despite all of the inconveniences that come with flying, it is a necessity. There are several things that can be done to make flying easier and more hassle free, and all that is involved is a little bit of common sense and planning.

1. Get to the Airport Early

Arriving at the airport early is a no-brainer, especially when the airlines tell passengers to arrive at least two hours prior to a flight’s departure time. However, there are many people who refuse to heed this request, and arrive at the airport just several minutes before a flight is scheduled to leave. If there is a line at the check-in counter or at security, this can create a very stressful situation. Not only may the flight be missed, but a new flight must be booked, and the passengers will probably have to travel stand-by on a later flight with no guarantee of a seat until the very last minute.

2. Take a Morning Flight.

Leaving on an early flight does not necessarily mean a 4 a.m. flight must be chosen. However, flights that leave first thing in the morning are less likely to be running late, and they are less likely to be affected by weather problems across the country and/or other planes that may be delayed at other airports. Also, if for some reason the first flight of the day is canceled or delayed, there will probably be several other flights throughout the day that, if necessary, can be taken instead.

3. Try Not to Fly During “Rush Hour”

Airports, like highways, have rush hours. Typically, rush hour in the morning is from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., and in the afternoon from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. These are the hours when airports are the most crowded with people waiting for flights. Crowds mean longer lines at the security check points, more people in the restrooms, more people waiting in restaurant lines, and more people taking up seats in the waiting areas. Flying at a NON-rush hour time of day can alleviate the need to stand in lines and sit with crowds.

4. Try to Take Non-Stop Flights

Obviously, when a non-stop flight is taken, there is less risk of being delayed. Taking off and landing both take quite a bit of time, so avoiding having to do this twice is recommended. There will always be destinations when a non-stop flight is not available, but there are plenty of cities where non-stop flights are just as common as those that stop. It may even be worth a few extra dollars to book a non-stop flight to avoid an unneeded hassle and the possibility of being delayed.

5. Book Connections with Enough Time
If a non-stop flight is not available to a desired destination, make sure to schedule enough time in between flights. When airlines book flights, they often have a layover requirement of 30 or 45 minutes between connections. However, this is often not enough time if the original flight arrives late. In order to avoid this stress, try to schedule connecting flights with at least an hour to spare between the arrival time of the first flight and the departure time of the connecting flight.

Copied with permission from: http://plrplr.com/24171/5-tips-for-easy-air-travel/

Travel To Bora Bora

Bora Bora, located in the Society Islands, is Tahiti’s crown jewel – a true Polynesian island paradise that tourists the world over consider the ultimate tropical vacation destination. Hollywood, and film industries from most other parts of the globe, have never tired of capturing its spectacular topography. Probably its most definitive landmarks are the twin towers of black rock and an azure lagoon of clearest tropical water.

Considering the ideal location and nature of this island getaway, it is not really surprising that water sports like water skiing, parasailing and tackle fishing feature prominently amongst the things to do there.

Responding to the potential, many enterprising holiday specialists have provided matchless facilities to enjoy such activities at almost any budget. And Bora Bora’s spectacular natural beauty is far from superficial and skin deep. The world beneath its waves makes it the perfect hunting ground for professional and amateur scuba diving enthusiasts.

Recreational tourism aside, Bora Bora is also amongst the world’s legendary backdrops for freshly baked romance. Newlyweds who choose the island for their honeymoon will have something to cherish, discuss and reminisce about for the rest of their lives.

Despite the high influx of tourists every year, Bora Bora has managed to avoid the cluttered, cheap boardwalk culture that one tends to associate with seaside and island resorts closer to home. There is nothing trashy about Bora Bora. It is very well connected by sea and air, and reaching it is as thrilling a visual experience as actually holidaying there. Excellent internal transport ensures that the entire wealth of Bora Bora’s splendor is available for a visitor’s inspection and enjoyment.

Unlike many other resort destinations of this kind, Bora Bora is far from cut off from the realities of mainstream life. It has an excellent infrastructure to support the necessities of modern living – hospitals, banking, foreign exchange etc. – even while it retains all its highly individual and other-worldly charm.

Copied with permission from: http://plrplr.com/1151/bora-bora/

African Safaris Where To Go

If you have never been on an African safari before, you may be at a loss as to where to go. If you have been on one, you might want to plan on going somewhere different. Not because you didn’t enjoy where you went, but because there are so many beautiful things to see in Africa.

From snow covered mountains and beautiful waterfalls, to sandy deserts and aquatic reefs, Africa has got it all. Not to mention all the wildlife. Gorilla trekkers, bird watchers and fly-fishermen will all be equally delighted. If you love beautiful landscapes and communities rich in culture, you’ll find that, too.

East and Central Africa

The eastern Africa and central African regions are loaded with many game parks which include a large variety and population of animals, from the wildebeest of Kenya (middle of the year) and Tanzania (early in the year) to the gorillas of Uganda.

East Africa’s landscape includes the spectacular and majestic Mount Kilimanjaro and the famous volcanic Ngorongoro Crater, the largest of its type in the world, which is home to thousands of animals such as Zebra, wildebeest, black rhino, prides of lion including the black-maned males, leopard, cheetah, hyena, elephants, warthog, impala, buffalo, hartebeest, eland and other members of the antelope family.

South Africa

Southern Africa also offers a magnificent scenario for a great safari. South Africa offers an outstanding and rewarding game-viewing experience. Tours here are normally conducted in open 4×4 safari vehicles, giving you greater visibility than a mini-van (commonly used in eastern and central African safaris).

South African guides are highly trained and professional. Many camps offer night tours and walks, as well as safaris by canoe and even elephant back!

Some of the cities are beautiful, and the coastline of South Africa and the striking landscapes are sure to please.

Namibia is a good place if you are looking for elephant, rhino, lion and giraffe.

All the large mammals can be found in Botswana; elephant, buffalo, red lechwe, lion and cheetah are plentiful.

Many consider Zimbabwe to be the best of Africa. This beautiful country offers Victoria Falls, rolling hills, rock art, and game parks that are home to large herds of elephant and buffalo, sable and roan antelope.

Zambia is a definite favorite for those who love to go on an African safari. Zambia has many well managed camps in wilderness areas known for concentration and diversity of game, bird life and game fishing. These can be found in the national parks of South Luangwa and Kafue National Park.

A great way to wrap up your African safari is to visit the Indian Ocean islands, which include Malawi, Mozambique, Mauritius, Madagascar, and the Seychelles Islands. These waters hold hundreds of species of fish, making them a haven for anglers. You can also enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving among the colorful fish, gorgeous flora and fauna, countless coral reefs and marine life.

Copied with permission from: http://plrplr.com/53909/african-safaris-where-to-go/

Travel To Brazil - World's Most Wondrous Country, Never Forget The Protection a Vaccination

Ya gotta be nuts to visit Brazil! Get it... Brazil? Nuts? Brazil nuts? All right, not funny at all. It sort of fits, however. There's nothing funny about visiting Brazil. It is a lavish land, huge in miles and scope, diverse in fauna and food, and a delight to the senses! In Brazil, you get it all, from white sand beaches teeming with bodacious beauties flaunting their stuff to quiet, almost mesmerizing sunsets, a respite for romantics. All this, and the people speak Spanish, the second most common language in the world! There is so much to see, to experience and to savor. Do it carefully and it will be one of your lifetime's highlights. Be careful and visit a certified travel clinic before you leave. Allow a doctor to peruse your itinerary and have administered any travel vaccination they recommend.

This way, you will be free to think of nothing but the fun, food, laughter and new friends that you shall meet as you journey through South America's largest country-Brazil. A gigantic, sweeping swath of land, Brazil is the world's fifth largest country and-by far-South America's dominant geographical region. Hugging the coastline for a whopping four thousand six hundred miles, beaches tend not to be a problem in this king of countries. Like anything good, though, it comes with a bit of danger. There is no controlling Mother Nature-and since Mother Nature rules this great country there will be deadly diseases lurking there. A quick visit to a certified travel clinic for a reliable travel vaccination will take care of all that nonsense-and allow you to relax in one of the world's most wondrous countries.

While in Brazil make sure to visit several exotic locations. First there is the city of Brasilia- Brazil's capital since 1960. Before the inauguration of this modern city as capital, Rio de Janeiro held the distinction since way back in 1763. In 1960 the government beseeched Brazil's best architects to help in creating a world-class capital. Oscar Niemeyer's designs won out and the rest is history. The capital is designed elegantly with rounded edges and straight lines to emerge as one of the continents premiere architectural wonders. Although the capital of Brasilia is relatively safe from the hidden dangers that many parts of the forested country still maintain, a travel vaccination or two still comes in handy while visiting any part of this humongous country.

While in Brazil, make sure you visit the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. This Catholic icon is the one of the largest statues in the entire world and gazes down upon the city from a lofty perch. If located anywhere in the must-see city of Rio there's just no missing this powerful piece of pious prefabricate! Getting to the base of the statue may take some time, but is recommended for every traveler to Brazil. Completed in 1931, it is considered the largest Art Deco-style statue in the world, and is the fifth largest statue of Jesus anywhere on Earth. As long as one is protected by a travel vaccination they can visit anywhere in this famed country called Brazil.

The Best Way to Travel With Your Dog or Pets

Time for your vacation and you are wondering if whether or not you should include your dog on the trip? Taking a trip with your dog can be a lot of fun if you know how to do it and what to expect when you have your dog with you. If you think that your dog deserves the excitement, make sure that you are wise about what you travel in to get there. For instance traveling by plane is not always the best idea for dogs.

The reason why going by plane is not always advisable is that the airlines don't consider your pet as part of the family as you do, more times than not they consider them just another piece of cargo. Even for a very relaxed dog, the cargo bay of a plane is definitely not a very nice place for your dog. This doesn't mean flying is totally out of the question, especially if your dog is a small dog. Some airlines will allow you to bring your little guy on the plane with you if the carrier he is in will fit on the floor by your feet.

Probably the best way to travel with your beloved dog is by car. Chances are if it is your own car you are driving, your dog is already familiar with it and will love getting in and will be more than willing to go on the trip with you. If however; your dog has only traveled in the car for the vet visit, more than likely he is not going to be anxiety free on the trip. So it is best for you and your dog if start taking him on short trips that end at pleasant places before you take him on vacation with you.

When traveling with your dog, make sure the trip is planned out well in advance. You will need to schedule in a lot of rest stops, they should be planned for about every three to five hours so that your dog can relieve himself have some water, stretch his legs some and maybe even have a bite to eat. Also make sure that you have plotted out any vets that are near any area that you might be stopping at and make sure that you know when their hours of operation are.

You should have these items with you when you are traveling with your dog. The list of all the rest stops and vets, a leash, dog crate, water and bowls, treats, a couple of his favorite toys, a blanket for him to lay on, waste bags, and even your dogs medical records.

Make sure that you make a reservation at a hotel that is pet friendly, don't get there and find out later that they don't allow pets. Some hotels really treat the pets like special guests with doggie beds and pillows, dog spas and even doggie day care.

If your trip is going to be a camping trip, you will discover that this can be a perfect way to spend some real quality time with your dog while enjoying nature at the same time. But sometimes camping can be an unwise decision for some dogs if they are not well trained. You also need to make sure a head of time that the campground accepts pets, some do not.

It's important that plan for your holidays in advance for your pet and be prepared for anything. No matter where you might be emergencies can arise, even when you are out traveling with your dog. So make sure than you plan for any emergencies. This will lessen your stress and make your trip with your dog much more enjoyable.

Things To Know Before You Set Out On Your First Cruise

Until you experience a cruise, you won't really understand what a unique way of traveling and vacationing it is. If you are going on a cruise for the first time, it will be better if you read up a little on the subject and ask an experienced cruise traveler for advice on the preparations that you should make.

Here are some things that you should know to ensure that you get the most of your time onboard and have a memorable trip. 

Book with a reputable cruise line: Booking your tour with a well-established cruise line that enjoys an excellent reputation ensures you of a hassle-free and enjoyable voyage. Check out a popular online local business directory to learn about the cruise lines that you can consider and do a little research to find the perfect cruise deal. 

Know the daily itinerary: Read the next day's itinerary that will be provided to you daily. This will help you plan your day and make sure that you don't miss out on any onboard fun. 

Do look around the ship: You can spend some part of the day wandering about the ship. But, be careful not to overdo it by exploring every nook and corner on a single day. Most of the cruise ships are very big and going around them is likely to tire you out. 

Be friendly with the staff: Being friendly, chatty and appreciative of the crew will make sure that you receive personalized & courteous service and, of course, great conversation. 

Remember to take your camera: The cruise will afford numerous exceptional photo opportunities. Make sure you have the camera handy to capture all such moments and do take it along when you go on-shore. 

Be prepared for the formal dinner: While you will be taking mostly casual wear along, do pack in a few clothes to be worn to the captain's dinner. It is not an experience to be missed. 

Take your hats, sunscreen, etc. along: Be prepared with all the accessories that you will need when you spend time in the coastal regions. A bad sunburn can really spoil your entire vacation. 

Leave your work behind: Don't bring your work along if you want to enjoy your cruise experience fully. 

Don't stay too long in your cabin: You will risk missing out on a lot of onboard fun and action if you spend too much time lazing about in your cabin.  

Participate in the cruise activities: To get maximum fun out of your trip, you must be a part of the cruise-organized activities, whether as a participant or a spectator.

Winter Vacations: How To Pack For Your Travels

Packing for winter vacations can be a little overwhelming. There are many clothing items and other things that you will need in order to be comfortable. How do you assure you have everything you need once you reach your destination? Luckily, the tips shared in this article will help you pack your suitcase for chilly winter vacations.

Clothing
When taking winter vacations, it is important to bring clothing that allows you to dress in layers. You will want to start with a base layer of a light shirt that can have either long or short sleeves. You can layer a long sleeve shirt over that and then a sweater or fleece over that. On top of those shirts, you can wear a waterproof or windproof shell to keep you warm and dry. Dressing in layers allows you to add or remove a layer depending on the weather and your comfort level.

Shoes
While shoes can be heavy and you may only be allowed to pack so much, this is one thing you should not skimp on. Your feet will encounter the weather during winter vacations first hand so you want something that will keep you warm and look good. Look for shoes that are dark so they won't show stains. Also, bring along shoes that are weatherproof.

Hats
A good hat can help keep you warm. In order for the hat to do so, though, it needs to meet some general requirements. A good hat for travel should cover your ears and part of your neck, is made with modern materials that are warm and offer maximum warmth, and doesn't have extra flaps or fluffs. Carefully choose your hat to keep your head (and the rest of your body) warm.

Gloves
Advances have been made with material and products to help keep us warm and dry. Luckily, this rings true with gloves. You no longer have to rely on heavy mittens to keep your hands warm; you can find gloves that are warm, waterproof, and still take up very little room in your luggage. When you are looking for the proper gloves for your vacation, look for some that are quick drying, weatherproof, light, and breathable.

Accessories 
Sunscreen is needed in winter as well as in summer. The sun reflects off of ice or snow and can cause quite a burn.

The reflecting of the sun can be quite bright. Because of this, you may choose to bring along a pair of polarized sunglasses.

If you will be vacationing where the weather is harsh, you should consider bringing a scarf. Scarves are typically light enough and small enough to not add much bulk to a suitcase, but warm enough to wear if you will be out in the cold weather.

Packing properly for winter vacations can help you have a comfortable visit no matter where you go. Use the tips shared here and you will be nice and warm and have a great time while traveling.

To plan great Michigan winter vacations, visit http://www.mckinacisland.org/michigan-seasonal-vacation/michigan-winter-vacations/.

Top 5 Reasons Many Call Themselves Coleman Campers

Anyone new to the adventures camping delivers will soon find there can be a lot of gear to purchase. From sleeping bags and tents to coolers, cooking gear and lanterns, these items are needed to make sure there’s at least a few creature comforts on a trip into the great outdoors. When it comes to companies whose name and this hobby are practically synonymous, Coleman stands out. There are a number of reasons why many veterans of this activity consider themselves Coleman campers.

 The Top 5 reasons many cite for being Coleman campers include:

* Price. While not all gear created by Coleman could be classified as “cheap,” the prices tend to be more than affordable. Coleman campers appreciate the bang for the buck this brand name tends to deliver. Whether it is a tent, a cook top or another necessary piece of equipment, Coleman tends to offer prices that are more than affordable. These products are also generally quite competitive with other brands on the market, too.

* Quality. This might be the number one reason so many consider themselves Coleman campers. Crafted by a company that has dedicated itself to making outdoors life fun for others, pieces of camping gear that carry the Coleman name are known for their high-quality design.

* Variety. It honestly is very difficult to outfit a campsite without at least once piece of Coleman equipment. Since this company makes just about everything under the sun necessary for a safe and fun trip into the woods, its products are a popular choice for many. Providing everything on the “must have” list, Coleman is known for its incredible variety of camping gear. Whether it’s cooking gear, sleeping gear or items designed for hiking and survival, Coleman has a product to match the need.

* Durability. There’s no point buying camping gear for a rough and tumble trip if that gear isn’t also rough and tumble. Coleman campers know this and that’s one of the reasons they go in for this gear. The products Coleman makes are designed to stand the test of time and a serious beating, too. In fact, some Coleman campers report having gear that’s survived decades of hard use in a variety of conditions.

* Availability. While the full line of Coleman equipment cannot be found everywhere, many basic items can be. Just about any department or Big Box store that carries camping equipment will have Coleman gear in the inventory. Camping stores and online outlets are generally the best places to go to see it all. When the two combine, it is a very easy undertaking for anyone to find the kind of Coleman gear they seek.

It doesn’t matter whether it’s a trip to the frozen tundra or a hike in the woods, Coleman gear can generally make the trek more enjoyable. Offering just about anything an outdoors trip requires, this company is known for its quality, durability, availability and pricing. It is for these reasons and many others so many consider themselves Coleman campers.

Copied with permission from: http://plrplr.com/24185/top-5-reasons-many-call-themselves-coleman-campers/

Great Variety and Travel Around Australia

You can travel around Australia with ease. Even though Australia is a vast country with many thousands of miles of roads they are all well maintained. This is a country that has an excellent system of transport whether it is flight, road or sea. There is no reason for any traveler not to combine all of these to have an unusual and exciting visit in Australia.

We all have our own idea of the perfect holiday. Some of us are not interested in adventure activities and sports. It is true that Australia is the perfect destination for those who do but it also provides an easy and relaxing time if you prefer. The Australian coast is world famous. There are few destinations that can match the blue ocean and soft white sands of this spectacular country. There are beaches such as Bondi Beach offering a standard of beach culture that only the best international resorts have. However, Bondi Beach and the surrounding area still retain its original beachside town atmosphere that is so appealing. Here you can enjoy cafes and restaurants serving up delicious seafood and excellent wines. You will also have the opportunity to spot local and international celebrities doing exactly the same as you. They travel around Australia to have a relaxing time.

If you want a boost of adrenalin then you can take part in exciting adventure activities in different parts of the country. You can go to Tasmania for white river rafting or you can fight the waters of the Blue Mountains Canyons. If white waters give you the thrills you seek then be assured you will always be accompanied by experienced and professional guides. Your adventure activities may be of the rugged kind but you will always be provided with comfortable to luxurious accommodation. It is very easy to travel around Australia if your trip is prepared by professional travel consultants. These can be found on certain trusted websites.

Bahrain - The Pearl of Arabian Gulf

Bahrain was known as the pearl of Persian Gulf due to its flourishing pearling industry. Today, it is a thriving business hub in the MENA region and offers a high quality of life to its people.

Bahrain is an archipelago of 33 islands. Historically, the region thrived on culture and trade of pearls that also invited the Portuguese invaders to conquer it in 16th century. With the discovery of oil off the coast of Bahrain, the economic topology of the country changed. The country also saw a transition in its sociocultural background to become a freethinking state among the Gulf countries, thus promoting education and cosmopolitan culture.

Rich History
Bahrain's history dates back to more than 5000 years, when Dilmun of the Bronze civilization ruled the area. They lasted for about two millennia. Following this Bahrain has been constantly occupied by different rulers such as, Sumerians, Babylonians, Portuguese, Greeks, Turks and Persians, to name a few.

Bahrain is also famous and historically known as the 'Land of Two Seas'. The about to this was first made in the legend of Gilgamesh. The basis to this probably lies in the sweet water springs located under the sea that leads to the shaping of two water-bodies with different densities.

During the 3rd or 4th century, Bahrain adopted Christianity, followed by Islam in the 7th century. Although Islam is the official religion of Bahrain, a small percentage of indigenous Christians still exist in the country along with other non-Muslims.

Contemporary Business Environment
Oil, discovered in 1932, had very small reserve in the country. As a result, it decided to diversify its economy, promote international business relationships, and encourage free trade. Today, Bahrain is a flourishing trade center that offers a cost-competitive business environment and educated workforce. Business and professional services, financial services, information and communication technology, manufacturing and logistics are some of the key sectors where Bahrain has already established a track record. The other upcoming sectors are pharmaceuticals, tourism and education and training. Bahrain is known as one of the most technologically advanced and well-informed economies in the MENA region.

As clear from its many flourishing industries, there is a strong presence of visitors on business trips. This has required Bahrain to keep up a good supply of hotels in the budget, luxury and business class. Some of the well-known names are the Kempinski Hotel Bahrain City Centre, Inter Continental Bahrain, Al Areen Palace and Spa, Ritz Carlton Bahrain Hotel And Spa and Golden Tulip Hotel Bahrain, that offer world-class hospitality services to a global crowd.

I am a content writer, editor and marketer associated with Golden Tulip, a chain of Louvre Group of Hotels across the globe.

11 Best Travel Planning Apps

In my opinion this is the best app to find accommodation. It has a great design, user-friendly interface and the search function is really good. You can set the location, your budget and what kind of accommodation you want then search for it. The places will display in a Google maps style interface and you can navigate around to find your best bet. Clearly one of the best travel apps around.

It is available for Android and Apple products.

Worldaroundme
This application is fantastic; this is the perfect tool for travelers that need to know what is around them. If you are searching for a restaurant, drugstore, gas station, ATM, hotel, activities nearby or basically anything you just have to point your cell phone in front of you and see what is around you! It will tell you the name of the place and how far you are from that place. Great application on the best travel apps list!
It is available for Android and Apple products

Evernote
What about an app to put all your sticky notes, flight confirmations, hostel bookings or calendar reminders all at the same place? Evernote is doing just that and the good thing is that it synchronize in real time on your cell phone, tablet or computer. You won't forget or lose anything again with this app and that's why Evernote is making it on the best travel apps list.

It is available for Android and Apple products.

Wi-fi finder
Quite simple, you need a Wi-Fi connection? Scan around you and find one easily. The good perk about this best travel app is that you can find the closest public Wi-Fi near you!
It is available for Android and Apple products.

Skyscanner
This app scan every airline companies available and give you the cheapest flight tickets price. No wonder why this application is making the list of the best travel apps. I will show you how to use this great application efficiently in a later article on travel and flight hacks.

This app is available on most platforms

Tripadvisor
They have a really nice website with lot of information and the app is one of the best travel app. You want to read reviews about a place that you want to go backpack or travel? Want to know what kind of sightseeing and activities a certain country has to offer? There you have it.
It is available on many popular platforms.

Xe currency
Useful and simple app that convert currencies. This app is updating the currency rates in real time, so you have the latest conversion rates. A must have while traveling!
Available on many platforms.

Heywire
This app is really useful if you didn't unlock your phone (I REALLY advise you to unlock your phone while traveling) or if you don't want to. Heywire uses Wi-Fi connection to allow you to text your friends back at home without using any data. No more surprise cell phone bills!
Available for Android and Apple products.

Hostelworld
The name of this application is self-explanatory, this app is great to find and book hostels all around the world. This is the best app for hostel booking and often you will have a promo or coupon if you book an hostel using this app.

It is available on most platforms

Maps.me
This one is great. Connect your cell phone to a Wi-Fi connection and download all the maps you need. Then unplug the Internet and surprise! You have a Google Maps style application that you can use OFFLINE!
Available on most platforms.

Skype
Last but not least, Skype! We all know Skype but this app will become really important oversea. You will miss your family and friends, and with Skype you can communicate by instant messaging and by video for free. Don't skip this one, trust me.
Available on most platforms

Come visit http://www.planbackpacking.com and leave your comments! Share the website and follow me on social medias

Five Best Products To Enhance Golfing Experience

When playing golf, with experienced fellow golfers, you need to have exactitude. Along with the accuracy, there should be a motivation and dedicated towards the spirit of the game. For these three things, you need to have the right golfing accessories in your kit. You can never attain the accurateness of hitting the ball the right way, with unsuitable sticks. And the fear of failure causes a great disappointment and displeasure.

There are two reasons behind the displeasur
the letdown at the game and the feel the investing into the wrong product. It is always recommendable to buy the kits, box, irons, drivers, and all other golfing products from a steadfast, reputable source. It will lessen the guilt of buying the off beam products.

Products that can enhance the enjoyment at the game 
By fetching the best products, you are increasing the chances of your scoring high at the game. But to amplify the interest, fun and enjoyment at the ground, following are a few products to look for.

Army Golf Tool
It is a remarkable product, which is handy, versatile and multipurpose. Just like an army knife, an army golf tool has numerous tools, in a single structure. There are tee punch, divot revamping tool, cleaning brush, and ball marker gadgets in an army golf tool. There are available different varieties of such tools. Some of them have scissors, toothpicks, blades, etc. It could be one of the most easing gadgets, which you can choose to increase the enjoyment of the sports.

Grooming Kit 
Golf is considered as a gentlemen's game. Therefore, it is necessary to appear well-groomed at the ground. For this, you should have a grooming kit in your golf kit. An elegant, well-groomed appearance will boost up your confidence level, which somehow can create some magic, and help you perform better at the game. A grooming kit has scissors, shaving foam, electric shaver, razors, towel, antiseptic cream, aftershave lotion, and a small mirror, etc.

Trunk Organiser
Trunk Organiser is a medium size, spacious bag, which is very useful to assort the accessories of your kit. You can keep your apparels, caps, gloves, shoes, socks, hand towels, perfume, talcum powder in trunk organiser.

GPS Golf Rangefinder
As the name says, it is a hi-fi gadget that is used to locate the exact distance of holes, at the golf ground. By finding the accurate range of the pin, it becomes doable for the player to choose the right club and stick to hit the ball.

Ball Finders
At times, when playing golf, balls get out of site. By using ball finder glasses, which are equipped with advanced lens, you can locate the misplaced ball.

Surely, these products increase the enjoyment level of the game. Along with these products, you ought to have the positive spirit, when playing golf.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Shailendra_Verma

Top 4 Dolphin Watching Holidays Around the World

Dolphin watching is often on people's lists of things to do before they die, and it is a truly rewarding experience for amateurs and seasoned wildlife enthusiasts alike. They are intelligent, inquisitive and playful animals, a delight to observe in their natural wild settings. While it is possible to look for them independently, joining an organised group will ensure the maximum possible number of sightings. Expert naturalist guides will know where to look for the different species, as well as the whales, sea birds and other animals that often inhabit the coastal areas they are found. Top destinations include Baja California and the Sea of Cortez, Madeira, the Maldives and Lyme Bay.

Baja California and the Sea of Cortez
Small-ship cruises to Baja California and the Sea of Cortez are almost unrivalled in the rich sea life that can be seen. Whale and Dolphin watching are the priorities, with species ranging from the great Blue Whale to the small Harbour Porpoise. Thousands of them swim in the Sea of Cortez, and it's a guaranteed highlight for enthusiasts. They will also be able to see the Grey Whale, Elephant Seal, sea lions, turtles and a wide array of marine bird life. The beauty of the region and its warm weather make for a beautiful setting for wildlife watching.

Madeira
The waters around Madeira host many species for enthusiasts to sight on Dolphin watching excursions. They may see Risso's, Bottlenose and Atlantic Spotted Dolphins, as well as Short-finned Pilot Whale and - with a not inconsiderable amount of good fortune - Sperm Whale and Bryde's Whale. The calm seas will be a boon to enthusiasts who like to photograph their sightings. Bird life is also well-represented, with Zino's and Fea's Petrels and Cory's Shearwaters.

The Maldives
The sandy coral atolls of the Maldives are surrounded by turquoise seas, home to numerous tropical sea animals. Whale and Dolphin watching will be rewarded by sightings of Risso's, Spinner and Fraser's Dolphins, along with Dwarf Sperm Whale, Long-finned Pilot Whale, Bryde's Whale and more of the dozen cetacean species known in this area. Superb snorkelling also gives marine wildlife enthusiasts the chance to explore the reefs and their stunning tropical fish, and even swim with Manta Rays.

Lyme Bay
Closer to home, the food-rich seas off Dorset's Jurassic Coast are a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts. There may be sightings of White-beaked, Bottlenose and Common Dolphins, Harbour Porpoise, as well as the possibility of some rare cetacean species. Sea birds also thrive in this area, with European Storm-petrel, Fulmar, Common Scoter, Guillemot and Sandwich Tern often seen. Groups may also go in search of the most elusive sea bird in Europe, the Balearic Shearwater.

Marissa Ellis-Snow is a freelance nature writer. If you're looking for Dolphin wathing tours, Naturetrek specialises in expert-led natural history and wildlife tours worldwide. Naturetrek brings over 25 years of experience to Jaguar watching tours in some of the most spectacular regions on Earth.

How Do You Plan to Enjoy the Holidays?

The Summer months are a busy time for holidays, especially for those people with children. Some people are fortunate enough to be able to go away for the whole of the Summer period. Those with children may find it convenient to decamp to a holiday resort where there are plenty of other children and activities arranged to keep them amused.

Other people may prefer to enjoy the Summer months, longer daylight hours and better weather by taking time off work to go for day trips to the countryside, beach or to go out sight-seeing.

Let's look at some ways you can plan to enjoy the holidays:

Plan ahead. Share dates with people in the same position as yourself, making arrangements in plenty of time so that everyone's available to hook up. That way both children and adults can have fun and good times enjoying each other's company.

By organising things in a group you can share the driving, expense of petrol and the hassle of catering, as well as the responsibility of amusing and supervising children as they play. Alternatively, as a parent, it may be worth volunteering to look after several children at once for a play date; that way you'll get plenty of reciprocal free time.

Use what's free. Parks, museums, beaches don't charge for admittance. Also look out for the many venues that provide special offers at holidays for entrance fees or meal deals. Organising a treasure hunt, nature watch, craft activities, ball games can occupy many a happy afternoon for minimal or no expense.

Have a plan B. Yes, arrange a barbecue or a picnic, but what if bad weather ruins those plans? Children love an indoor picnic; a tablecloth on the lounge floor can seem quite exciting to them. Adults are often surprised at how much fun they can have playing board games or charades. And these unexpected, impromptu occasions are often remembered months later with affection.

Do things as a family. Make the effort to plan time for outings with your partner and/or children. A bike ride, day at the beach, walk in the park or time spent planning a mini-project in the garden are inexpensive ways of enjoying each others company. It's good to take time to de-stress and spend time together sharing happy moments and building stronger relationships.

Holiday times spent on one's own can be enjoyable, especially if planned well. If you're dreading spending Summer by yourself try to plan some lovely treats and activities, so turning a potentially difficult time into something relaxing and pleasant. Plan your viewing, schedule your favourite meals, freshen up your home with clean sheets and vases of flowers. Organize things that make you feel good. Be proactive and occasionally invite friends or neighbours round for a coffee or light lunch. Join a walking group or social club where you have the opportunity to mix with people who have similar interests to yourself.

Don't forget to leave some time free for being spontaneous. Not every moment has to be choreographed. Enjoy time spent pottering in the garden, reading, watching a film or simply relaxing and doing nothing. And then if an unexpected opportunity arises or you suddenly feel the urge to get up and go somewhere, call on someone or visit a place you're in a position where you're able to do so.

Susan Leigh is a Counsellor and Hypnotherapist who works with stressed individuals to promote confidence and self belief, with couples experiencing relationship difficulties to improve communications and understanding and with business clients to support the health and motivation levels of individuals and teams.

5 Beautiful Places to Discover in Thailand

A popular destination for travellers, Thailand has something for everyone, from 5 star luxury seekers to money conscious back packers. It's a land with a fascinating history, breathtaking scenery, ancient temples and a long standing culture of Buddhism. With palm studded beaches, sugary white sands, azure seas and idyllic islands it's the ultimate place to relax and let the laid back atmosphere wash over you.

Phuket
Probably one of the best known Thai destinations after Bangkok, Phuket was made famous as far back as 1974 when it featured in the Bond film, 'Man with the Golden Gun'. In Phuket you can experience a hedonistic lifestyle as you relax on miles and miles of soft sandy beaches by the shimmering aquamarine waters of the Andaman Sea. It's the perfect place to try out some water sports or just eat and drink in the many restaurants and bars which line the sands.

Maya Bay
Another beach made famous on the big screen, Maya Bay played a central role in the 2000 film 'The Beach' starring Leonardo di Caprio. Beautiful white sand surrounded by coral reefs and limestone rocks; it proved to be the perfect location although the landscaping carried out by Fox productions didn't endear the film makers to the locals. It seems nature has now reclaimed its birthright, the 2004 tsunami removing most of the Fox productions landscaping and returning it to its natural state.

Kanchanaburi
A major tourist destination, Kanchanaburi has a truly magnificent landscape with waterfalls, forests, rivers and caves dating back to the times of Neolithic man. It's the ultimate outdoor adventure park with all sorts of activities available from rafting, canoeing and fishing to golfing, mountain biking and bird watching. There are even treks into the dense jungle in search of elephants for those of you who like a little more adventure in your life. But if this seems too much like hard work then just relax on the beautiful white sand beaches.

Koh Phi Phi Don

Hindus, Buddhists and sea gypsies live in harmony in this hedonistic paradise where unspoiled beaches, clear emerald seas and craggy cliffs make up the familiar landscape of this area. Koh Phi Phi, like most islands, can only be reached by sea in one of the puttering colourful long tails and once you are there, you'll find that there are no roads and no traffic in this unspoilt haven of tranquillity and peace. In fact the most arduous thing you'll have to do here is raise your cocktail glass or maybe practice a few downward dogs during a yoga session on the pristine beaches.

Haad Rin, Koh Pha Ngan
If you're finding all this talk of relaxation too staid for your tastes and you'd prefer somewhere with a party atmosphere then head to Haad Rin, a beach which is more famous for its Full Moon Parties than for its natural attractions. That's not to say that it isn't beautiful, it still has the requisite golden sands, crystal clear waters but it also has a lively vibe which lasts all day and well into the night.

James Howson is a timeshare and travel expert with Travel & Leisure Italy. He has over a decade of experience reviewing top resorts and locations around the world, but in particular in Europe

Best Animal Experiences in the UK

Tea with Tigers
Remember the Tiger Who Came to Tea? He ate all the food in Sophie's house, drank all the water in the taps and then left never to be seen again. Now the tigers are inviting you to join them for tea, and the good news is that there's plenty of food to go around. At Paradise Wildlife Park in Broxbourne, visitors can take afternoon tea in the Treetops Café after enjoying a special guided tour with a member of the park's Cat Team. The team will provide interesting information on tigers (like did you know that their skin is striped as well as their fur?), and they'll also answer any tiger questions that you might have. Afterwards you can walk across the Big Cat Walk to get some close-up souvenir snaps of these majestic cats before exploring the rest of the park.

Walk with Wolves
If you've ever wanted to meet a wolf close up this is your chance. On the outskirts of Reading, volunteers at the UK Wolf Conservation Trust head into the surrounding countryside with two fully grown wolves on metal leashes in front of them. The Trust owns the surrounding countryside - it has to take precautions to make sure that the wolves don't encounter any dogs. Larger canines often like to play-fight, a fight that could potentially be fatal to them when faced with a tooth-baring wolf. While on the walk, there are plenty of photo opportunities and visitors may even get the opportunity to stroke the wolves, not as you would a dog. Wolves must be stroked on the underside of their stomach so that you're submitting to them.

Meet the Meerkats
Not everyone likes their wild animals, well, wild. If you're interested in meeting some of Africa's cutest critters, there are several experiences that allow you to get up close and personal to meerkats whether it's in Hertfordshire, Chester or Preston. Although the experiences differ from location to location, most experiences will have you chatting to members of the meerkat team and preparing the meerkats' lunch for them. When you walk into their pen sprinkling food, you'll see the naturally inquisitive meerkats are more than happy to pop up and say hello. After you've met the meerkats, you can take a stroll around the rest of the safari park, and meet the rest of the animals.

Whatever type of animal you like, you're bound to find an animal experience that suits your needs. So before you start planning exotic trips to experience your favorite animal first hand, why not look at the experiences available closer to home?

Emily Collins loves animals and recommends the animal experiences offered by Red Letter Days.