Best ways to meet locals in Barcelona

When moving to a new country, particularly one where the language is different to your own, then it can seem incredibly frightening to think how you will make friends in your new city and country. I moved to Barcelona at 21 without knowing anyone here and although the move seemed daunting at the time, it has in fact been a truly incredible experience. I have met some brilliant people from all different countries from accross the world including a lot of Catalan people, who are great for helping to teach and show your their city and culture. I am going to write about the best ways to meet locals here in Barcelona.

Learn the language

The most important tip that I can give to meet local people in Barcelona is to learn the language. In my experience I have found that this does not always have to be Catalan in Barcelona as everyone can speak Spanish and I have encountered no problems with people not wanting to speak Spanish particularly as they can hear in your voice that you are not Spanish and they are usually very willing to help you as they realise that it is not your native tongue. Although some of the locals do speak English, most don´t so it becomes more difficult to meet locals if you don´t speak at least some Spanish.

Intercambio

One of the best ways to learn a new language is by going on Intercambios. For those that do not know what a Intercambio is, it is where two people who both want to learn or improve their language skills in the other persons language meet up and spent half the time talking in one language and then switch to the other language. For me as a native English speaker, it was very easy for me to find Spanish people to meet as English is a language that everyone wants to learn here espcially young people. Although the principle reason is to imporve your language skills, going for a drink with someone and speaking about a range of subjects is also a great way to get to know someone and friendships can begin. I have found from my experiences that most of the people wanting to learn English here are locals that have lived their whole life in Barcelona and love the oppurtunity to speak with a native English speaker and they are also very keen to share their city and culture with you. I have found out and heard many stories about Catalunya and the history of the region and it has been very interesting. It also of course comes with the added benefit of helping imporve your Spanish too so is a win-win situation. The website that I used is http://www.conversationexchange.com and I recommend it.

Joining a group or team

Think of your favourite hobby or sport and I think you will find that there are specific groups and teams in Barcelona of similar like-minded people. This is not a gurantee of meeting locals as there are probably also other foreigners who have the same hobby too. If you can speak the language then join local classes or groups in a variety of different activities like music groups, acting or sports teams where you willl find that many of the members are locals. If the group advertises solely in Spanish or Catalan then this is a good sign that they are likely to be made up of mainly locals.

Street Festivals

Anyone familiar with the Spanish culture will understand the importance of the "fiesta" in Spain and Barcelona is no different. There are a number of great street festivals in Barcelona and the number of people that attend is staggering. A lot are locals that have come to admire the decorations and of course to party and why not try to strike up a conversation with different people and maybe you will only speak for one sentence or you may share a whole conversation with the other person but it is a good way to practise your Spanish and meet new people.

Be friendly

Unfortunately if you are hoping that locals will approach you and instigate conversations then you are going to be disappointed. If you want to meet local people then you have to be very friendly and out-going. Take control and make a comment to someone on the weather or any other ice breakers you know, in Spanish or Catalan of course. One of the things that I have found is that the locals are as much interested in talking to you as you are talking to them as you have to remember particularly in the least touristy places that there are not the same number of tourists so the chance to speak to someone of another nationality is something that they want to do so rememer this and it will hopefully give you the confidence to hold a conversation.

"Be very friendly and out-going."

Join a gym

This may not be for everyone but the process of joining a gym is great for meeting new people particularly if you are not in a tourist area as most of the other members will be Barcelona residents. If you are a regular then you will notice that you will continually run into the same people at the gym and then it is easier to have conversation and they may even approach you as you will have a shared experience.

The best tip for meeting locals that I have is to remember that you are as interesting to the locals as they are to you and I have found them to be extremly friendly and very forgiving of poor Spanish when they realise you are a non native. Some will even speak to you in English if they can and generally they will want to speak English to improve so they are likely to want to prolong the conversation. Therefore, you have to be out-going and be the one to try and start a conversation and you will find your rewards.

Article written by Sean, a traveller and blogger from Homesearch Barcelona, barcelona properties for rent and sale.

Tips and Tricks for Collecting Air Miles

"Air miles are not only collected when you fly"

In this day and age people are always looking for tips and tricks as to how they can save some extra money and get the best deals wherever possible. Saving air miles is a great way to lower the cost of flights and reward you and your family with a much needed holiday. In spite of popular belief, air miles are not only collected when you fly. There are a great many ways in which you can collect air miles and then redeem them for flights at your leisure. Anyone can save air miles and there are a great many ways in which you can increase your rewards and cash in on simple offers which will increase the number of miles you collect.

Alliances
Instead of simply joining the air mile frequent flyer reward program of every airline, it is much more effective to enrol in an alliance which will allow you to accumulate points from several airlines into one place and reach your required goals much faster. Takes some time to find out which airlines are part of what alliance and think about which ones you are more likely to use in the future. This will increase your earning potential and you will see the air miles accumulate much more quickly. Once you have enrolled in the alliance you can contact customer services to transfer your past air mile balances from each individual account into the one master account in order to earn more miles faster.

Credit Cards
This is one of the most common ways in which you can collect air miles. Many airlines and credit card companies are offering deals which allow you to collect air miles with every dollar that you spend. In order to increase your air miles using this method you should buy large expensive items on credit card and pay them off using a different account. Any large payments such as house or car payments can be paid through credit card to produce a huge chunk of air miles each month. By simply using your credit card in any situation where you can, you will see your air miles balance increase dramatically each month allowing you to claim the rewards much more quickly.

Club cards and Online Shopping
There are many websites and store cards that you can sign up to which offer air mile rewards as a loyalty program for their shops. You can join estore facilities which allow you to gain air miles when you spend certain amount of money on their products. You can find out what shops and websites are affiliated with your program by looking at the specific information you are given with your alliance enrollment.

Add the Household
For most air mile reward programs you are able to sign up the entire household for one account. This increases your accumulation as you receive miles whenever any registered member flies or use their credit cards. This helps to increase the amount of points you receive and allows you all to partake in the rewards.

About the Author: Naomi Chamberlain writes for Discounts.ca who provide a range of store coupons and vouchers. Current brands on the website include Apple, Dell, Expedia and Amazon.

Sail On – Top Tips For Sailing Holidays

Want flexibility? Choose sailing!

Ever since I heard the Commodores singing Sail On, I’ve dreamed of chartering my own boat and sailing the seven seas as they say.  OK, so Lionel Richie didn’t strictly have sailing on his mind but that’s the image it conjured up for me – and still does.

For the sailing aficionados or the merely curious, a sailing vacation is one of the most flexible vacations available.  Forget the itineraries, devise your own timetable and if you want to vary it while you’re out there, that’s just fine.

The independence of a sailing vacation holds a unique allure for many, and for those with sailing experience, bareboat charters offer some of the most attractive options.

Experienced or not, there are certain things to consider before you book your vacation:-

Qualifications
The qualifications required for a bareboat charter vary depending on where you’re heading for.  To arrange a bareboat charter in the Caribbean, experience often counts more than actual qualifications.  Fancy the far reaches of the Mediterranean and the culture of Greece? The Greek authorities will want to see your sailing certificate and your ‘first mate’ is also likely to be asked to sign a declaration as to his or her level of experience.

Useful Tip: Before you even think of setting sail, agree to some form of ‘hierarchy’ with your crew.  In the very unlikely event you encounter any difficulties which require a clear decision, the last thing you want is a mutiny!

When Should You Go?
The time of year you choose for your vacation has a significant effect on both price and destination. If budget is your prime consideration, then the decision on when to go may be out of your hands.

Useful Tip: It can actually be cheaper to charter a bareboat just before the Christmas and New Year holidays.  Most people planning vacations in December aim to celebrate the festive season in an exotic location. Why not celebrate in advance and be home in time to spend Christmas with the rest of the family?
Warning: Hurricane season in the Caribbean will often see a steep drop in prices for chartering boats.  I can’t imagine why!

Book Well in Advance
It may sound obvious but many charters are booked up to a year in advance.  If you’re serious make your reservation now and be flexible on lead time. Secure the destination and boat that you really want.

Useful Tip: If you have to take school holidays into consideration, it’s even more important to book with as much advance notice as possible. If you’re thinking of Florida, the Bahamas or the Caribbean, June and July are your best options as the heat is still bearable.

Know What You Are Paying For
Check and check again with the tour company so you know exactly what’s included in the price of the charter.  It can vary with each tour operator. As well as basics, you may find snorkeling equipment, towels and first aid kits included in the price. Check the inventory and don’t take any chances – take out full travel insurance.

Useful Tip: Don’t forget your sunscreen!
Planning your charter is lots of fun but don’t overlook the important stuff in your haste to confirm it.

Once you have an idea of budget and times you can go, the exciting part begins, choosing your destination!  You’re spoil for choice, from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, the Mediterranean to the Far East.  Whether whale watching, ancient history, lazy days on sparkling white sands or warm water snorkeling is your thing, all bases are covered.

Are you more of a landlubber than a seafarer and slightly daunted by everything we’ve mentioned?   Look at options for yacht rental that include hiring a crew. Relax in the knowledge that technical matters are in safe hands and you’ll soon find your sea legs.

P.S, don’t forget your Commodores soundtrack.

Penelope loves to sail and has a passion for travelling the world... and of course playing the Commodores along the way

Hidden Gems for Brazil holidays

When you think about Brazil holidays, there are some classic images that pop into your head. Perhaps it’s the famous view over Rio and the Guanabara Bay from the statue of Christ the Redeemer; perhaps the grand sweep of the Iguazu Falls; or perhaps you dream of the long lazy curves of the Amazon... What’s almost certain, unless you’ve already started researching a holiday in Brazil, is that you won’t be thinking of the epic terrain of the Chapada Diamantina, the colourful vistas of the Pantanal, or the deserted sand dunes of Lençois Maranhenses.

Outside of Brazil, most people haven’t even heard of these areas, despite the fact that they offer some of the most fascinating and unique experiences you could wish for. There’s no denying the appeal of Rio or the awesome scenery offered by Iguazu Falls, but when you’re planning your Brazil holidays it’s worth taking the time to at least think about some of those areas of Brazil that are just a little off the beaten track...

The enormous Pantanal wetlands

Wildlife in The Pantanal

We’ll start with one of the undisputed hidden gems that Brazil has to offer – the enormous Pantanal wetlands. Covering a huge area roughly the size of France, the Pantanal forms part of Brazil’s border with Paraguay and Bolivia, and constitutes the largest area of wetlands on earth. A maze of small streams and larger rivers cut through areas of savannah-type grasslands, reed marshes and semi-tropical forest, all of which are home to different types of wildlife. In fact, it’s a little-known fact that the Pantanal is actually more diverse than the Amazon rainforest! The range of wildlife available here is, quite simply, breathtaking, and the fact that the scenery is largely open means that it’s also much easier to see the wildlife – on Brazil holidays in the Amazon (great though it is) you do tend to spend a lot of your time peering through dense foliage and trying to get your camera settings right – in the Pantanal, you can just relax and enjoy the experience!

Trekking in The Chapada Diamantina

Moving on the North-East of Brazil, the Chapada Diamantina is an example of the range of landscapes that Brazil has to offer. Where the Pantanal is low, flat and watery, the Chapada Diamantina is high, dry and rolling. Named for the diamond mines which formerly provided most of the work in this remote part of Brazil, today it is a trekking paradise, with many of the former miners now working as guides for the tourists who want to get away from the crowds and see something of the Real Brazil on their holidays in Brazil. There are a range of different treks available, from short day treks out from the pretty colonial town of Lençois, to full-on multi-day expeditions camping out on the mountains. Whichever you choose, the epic nature of the landscape is sure to impress you – a vast range of rolling hills which seems to go on forever, largely covered in scrub forest but cut through with babbling mountain streams, waterfalls and natural swimming-pools: perfect for cooling off at the end of a good day’s trekking!

"...and natural swimming-pools"

Sao Luis and Lençois Maranhenses

Staying in the North-East, but offering something wildly different again, is the northern state of Maranhão. Easily accommodated together with Brazil holidays visiting the Chapada Diamantina, the small colonial town of Sao Luis is a favourite with anyone who has visited it – small, cobbled streets lined with galleries and cafes, and home to some of the oldest Afro-Brazilian traditions, it’s a slice of living history and great fun to boot. Even better, is that a few miles away you have what must be one of the most bizarre landscapes on earth...

"one of the most bizarre landscapes on earth..."

The Lençois Maranhenses National Park covers over a thousand square kilometres and at first sight, looks like an honest-to-goodness Lawrence of Arabia-style desert, with sweeping sand dunes as far as the eye can see. Once you look more closely, however, you realize that this desert landscape is dotted with thousands of small lagoons in ranges of iridescent blues and greens.  In fact the area is not technically a desert at all – there is a regular rainy season at the start of the year which fills the valleys between the dunes with fresh water. These then evaporate slowly over the course of the year, until they are replenished again by the new rainy season. What’s even more bizarre is that many of these lagoons actually contain fish! It’s generally believed that passing seabirds deposit eggs every year, although being born into an ever-shrinking home can’t be a great deal of fun for the poor fish concerned!

Any of these destinations would be a worthy addition to any holiday in Brazil, and you’ll also have the pleasure of having them largely to yourself – so make sure you enjoy them while you can, and before everyone else catches on!

Dan Clarke works for Real Brazil Holidays, and spends most of his time counting down the days until he can get back to Sao Luis and enjoy some kite-surfing in Lençois Maranhenses...

What you shouldn't miss in Madrid at Christmas

The Christmas market in Madrid opened last week in Plaza Mayor. So, what are you waiting for? Go there to buy your Christmas decorations, food and sweets. You can already smell the Christmas spirit surrounding this historic square which once was the stage for public executions and has turned into a meeting place that gets full of good vibes at this time of the year.

Apart from this awesome Christmas market, you should buy funny items in the jokes and costumes market in Plaza Santa Cruz, a few steps from Plaza Mayor. There you will find funny stuff for New Year's Eve and the Día de los Inocentes on 28th December (Spanish equivalent to April's Fool).

Buy your Christmas presents in the thousands of shops in the center of Madrid or in El Corte Inglés department store. But first, take some time to watch the amazing and beautiful Christmas shows and decorations. Outstanding is the Cortylandia Christmas show which you can see on the facade of El Corte Inglés in Preciados street. If you have children, they are going to love it! Friendly, colorful robots dance at the rhythm of the catchy Cortylandia song.

After your Christmas shopping, you might be hungry. Why don't you have some churros with chocolate? Have a cup of hot chocolate and dip your churros into it! These typical strip fried doughs are delicious and the hot chocolate will help you stand the cold temperatures in December.

Would you like to go ice skating? Take your children to the artificial ice rink in Plaza Callao, very close to the Cortylandia show. This ice rink is only for kids and you will find a beautiful, decorated Christmas tree next to it. If you go to Plaza La Luna, you can go ice skating as well.

But the best of Christmas holidays in Madrid is that they are very long (at least for children), since they don't finish until the 6th January! That's great, don't you think?

Although Santa Claus also visits the city, Madrid children wait more impatiently for the Three Wise Men arriving on 5th January. These three magicians, in Spanish culture, go on a parade around the city, smile at children, greet them and throw them sweets. Their pages and lorries full of presents go with them. At the tail end of the parade, a lorry full of coal is the most feared and least loved by children. Tradition says that naughty kids will not get presents, but a piece of coal!

"If you don't go to sleep soon, the
Three Wise Men won't leave you any gifts!"

Once the Three Wise Men parade is finished, go quickly to your Madrid apartment to have dinner and go to bed early. If you don't go to sleep soon, the Three Wise Men won't leave you any gifts! And, don't forget to leave them a glass of water and some biscuits for them and their camels. They still have a very long night ahead!

Unique Ways To Spend Your Honeymoon

So the big day has finally arrived and your novelty themed wedding went without a hitch. There you both were dressed as Ewoks or Moomins or completely naked, the J Giels cover band you booked were great and only four people were poisoned by the vegan buffet. It’s time to start your life together. But you don’t want to jet off to just any old place – you need a honeymoon with a twist. A crazy twist. Here are a few ideas for wacky honeymoons you’ll be talking about for years.

Get Away From It All - Turtle Island, Fiji 

If it’s good enough for Britney Spears, it’s good enough for you. We know you’ve lived your life by this creed – that’s why you go ‘commando’ every time you exit a vehicle. And your honeymoon shouldn’t be any different. Turtle Island is one of the most exclusive and remote romantic destinations on earth. With accommodation for only 14 couples, you don’t have to worry about your special holiday resembling a sub-plot from the sit-com Benidorm. You stay in your own eco-friendly cabin on this island paradise and have a ‘Bure Mama’ on hand to cater to your every whim. And they filmed the Blue Lagoon there! What more could you want?

Go  A Spiritual Journey - Monastery Stay, Worldwide 

Nothing says married life like being surrounded by a bunch of celibate monks. Monasteries and convents have always offered shelter and sanctuary to travellers in need as that famous documentary Nuns on the Run has shown us. Monasteries the world over now have now opened their doors to the intrepid vacationer and provide restful, reflective rooms for rent. From the Far East, through the whole USA and all over Europe, you’ll find a top Monk House. What better place to venture with your new significant other and take time in the calming atmosphere to sit and contemplate the horrible, horrible mistake you might have just made.

"Nothing says married life like being surrounded by a bunch of celibate monks."

        

Get Weird - Roswell UFO Festival, New Mexico 

How many times have you told that special someone in your life that they’re ‘out of this world’? Ten? Twelve? Well, if you’re the sort of person who likes to stretch metaphors to preposterous lengths then why take a trip to the alien-est place on Earth or elsewhere? Roswell, New Mexico! Reported site of an infamous UFO crash landing and air base where supposed alien autopsies were conducted. Nothing says romance like that! As well as the annual summer festival, there’s a Roswell UFO Museum and other local attractions such as the Bottomless Lakes. Which is where you may end up if you spring a surprise like this on your new bride.

Chill Out - Igloo Stay Finland 

Who needs tropical paradises, acres of sandy beaches and warm crystal waters as far as the eye can see? Heat is over-rated, icy tundra is now the way to go. If you want a completely unique start to your new married life, don’t just stay in igloo hamlet or igloo suburb – but an actual igloo village! In Kakslauttanen Finland, right above the arctic circle. You and your new partner can stay in your own glass-domed igloo and admire the star strewn sky or even the Northern Lights if you’re lucky. Or, for an even chillier alternative, stay in a cabin completely built from snow, with ultra-cosy down sleeping bags thrown in.

Hobo Festival - Britt Iowa 

With the way the economy is going, we’re all probably going to end up as hoboes – those beloved, filthy gentlemen and women of the road. So, if you don’t want to get your new life partner’s hopes up, why not take them to the annual gathering of the hoboes in Britt, Iowa. Hoboes from around the globe hop on freight trains and head to Britt to eat Mulligan Stew and stand around fires swapping stories of life on the road. You can even join in the hobo parade through Main Street and buy a bindle full of tramp-style souvenirs. And if your special someone is still talking to you after all that, then you’ve got yourself a keeper.

About the Author: Dale Shaw is a freelance travel writer, currently working for Wish.co.uk who specialise in thrilling activities and experience days. Find out more here!

A Magic Christmas in Tuscany

The Holiday season is approaching, and a large part of the world prepares to celebrate Christmas. Did you ever think about spending your Holidays in Tuscany?

During Christmas time this famous region in Italy becomes even more romantic than usual, making it the perfect destination for a quick runaway from your daily routine. Here are some suggestions for your relax, enjoyment and discovery of new places to return to or keep among your most treasured memories.

Wellbeing centers in Tuscany
The region literally thrives with spas, thermal baths, wellness resorts, hot springs and hotels with saunas and fitness areas. You just have to decide in what part of Tuscany you want to stay: the hot springs of Calidario near Livorno, or those of Saturnia, near Grosseto, or why not the Fonteverde spas in the province of Siena, in an unmatched landscape of rare beauty. Then if you prefer to have the benefits of relaxation without the therapeutic properties of natural springs, you may want to stay in Montepulciano, at the newly opened Etruria Resort. Here an ancient villa was restructured to accommodate you in wonderful hotel rooms, and the Etruscan cellars transformed into saunas and hot baths with massages and other beauty treatments. There are many more choices for your relax and beauty: Montecatini and Chianciano Terme, Bagni di Lucca and the Hotel Terme di Petriolo, totally immersed in nature.

Culinary and wine tours of Tuscany

On the rack, Tuscany wine tour

If you already feel well relaxed and in good shape, you can opt in for a wine and food tour of Tuscany. The Christmas season is a special time to be in a wine farm; the newly harvested grapes are being transformed into novel wine, available only for a short period of time, while last year's production is fully ready for tasting. You could go for an arranged tour, or you could delight in crafting one perfect for your needs. The first option removes all worries and burdens. All in all, not everyone loves to deal with bureaucracy and planning. On the other side though, you will have to abide to stiff timing and pick up rendezvous, fixed itineraries and destinations. First-timers will probably be better off with this option. However, if you love to organize your day, or are a seasoned traveler of Tuscany, you should decide on the cellars and restaurants to visit, gather all the info on your most favorite wines and producers, contact them personally to arrange everything, then rent a car to get the freedom and independence to move around at will. You may even go a step further and rent an RV. To make things easier, Tuscany was divided into "Wine Roads". These are common interstate roads that lay on a specific wine producing county. You may start with the "Strada del Chianti Classico", or "Strada del Vino Nobile di Montepulciano", among the most famous ones.


Mountain ski trip to Tuscany
What better than a Christmas Holidays ski trip? The splendid mountains of the region offer a lot of fun for couples and families alike. You may rent a Tuscan cottage immersed in the snow-covered forest, yet nearby a village. A log cabin with fireplace and sauna: does it get more relaxing and romantic than this? The best mountains of the region are definitely the Abetone and Cimone, set next to one another at the border between Tuscany and Emilia Romagna. Here you will find the longest slopes and the most beautiful landscapes of the region; however, mount Amiata and the Lunigiana and Garfagnana mountains also offer their share of splendid natural landscapes and fun. Beginning skiers, especially with young kids, will find their safe haven with them.

These are just a few suggestions for your Christmas holiday in Tuscany. But why choose just one? You could stay in a Tuscan villa on the Amiata mountain, then drive to the nearby coast to discover the fantastic Morellino di Scansano wine, and stop at Saturnia Thermal Baths on the way back. The region offers so much in a relatively small area that you can really take advantage of it all even within a short period of time.

Matt is a frequent traveler of Italy and set up his business there to rent villas Tuscany coast and help you find your perfect wedding villa Tuscany.

The Insider Scoop: Boulder, CO

The Local Knowledge of Boulder and the Surrounding Area

The Insider Scoop: Boulder, CO

Living in Colorado means a lot of sun, a smaller amount of wind, and super dry skin. All are easy to live with when you live in Boulder. Mockingly called “The People’s Republic of Boulder” by some, this place is known for its Democratic views and politics in a very Republican state.

From emphasis on local produce to co-op power, the people around Boulder love freedom, and nature. This place allows you to go for a walk in the morning, get some vegan food in the afternoon, and takes a swim at night, all without leaving city limits. Here are some local tips for those who want to get the best and most exclusive of Boulder.

Canyon St. Farmers Market:

During the spring, summer, and part of fall, every Saturday morning is when I get my veggies for the week. There are numerous farms, coop gardens, and private growers in the area, and every Saturday morning they truck their wares down to the middle of Boulder on Canyon Street right by the river, and sell.

You can get a little of everything: I usually plan on getting eggs, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, onion, peppers, nuts, and fudge when I go. The amount of options is staggering, and some of the best white-truffle mustard I’ve ever had was purchased there. The best part about it is that everything is completely fresh and local.

Before you get going, make sure to stop into the Tea Café right in the middle of the fair. This blue-chip mosaic building serves breakfast and lunch alongside the most impressive collection of teas I’ve ever seen. Everything is available for trying, and as reasonable prices, you can shop like you’re in Boulder and drink like you are in China.

Chautauqua Park:

I just moved to Boulder about 9 months ago, and I tell everyone back home the same thing when they asked why I chose Colorado.

“If you don’t like the outdoors, don’t move here.”

Boulder is a pretty expensive place to live, but it allows those of us that hike and mountain bike a wide range of trails to choose from. These vary greatly in difficulty and use.

The place to start your journey is Chautauqua. This part of the advice is not so much insider information. It is easily the most popular starting point for trails, and with plenty of parking to boot. The best part for visitors if they start at Chautauqua, they can ask the locals which trails would be best for them and their families. I personally suggest, however, that you ask for some of the more local trails for the best thrills.

Snow Plow Carving Out Hiking Trail

Specialty Hikes & Rides
View Hike - Bear Peak Trail:

This is a heavily wooded hike that leads to an amazing view of boulder at about 10,000 feet. On a difficulty scale of 1-10 this hike would be a 7. Now, before the locals groan, I’m taking into account that most visitors have never been at 5,000 feet, and then tried to ascend another 5,000 within a couple of days. For experienced hikers at sea level, this will just make you sweat a ton and be short of breath, for non-experienced hikers at sea level, I’d avoid this right away, many people come to these altitudes and overexert themselves.

Relaxed Hike - Stone Thrones on Skunk Trail:

This is a hike I like to do after an early dinner to catch the sunset. This hike can’t actually be started from Chautauqua, but from the skunk trailhead just one mile away. If you take the skunk trail and always bear right, you will end up on one of the smaller hills near Bear Peak. On what looks like an old rockslide, some locals have made three seats out of the stone that are pretty damn comfortable. This is the best place to have a drink while watching the sunset.

Mountain Bike Trail – Betasso Loop:

This is a short loop, but many people riding the trail add a lot of terrain. If you happen to live here, you’ll notice the loop change pretty drastically every month or so during the summer. There is a good view of Boulder Reservoir at the end of the loop, and a good steep technical section at the beginning.

White Water Rafting in Colorado:

This is truly one of the most fun things you can do to conquer Mother Nature, and do it as big as you want. Riding a raft down a river in Colorado is an experience no one forgets.

Consider for a second the lay of the land. Each year millions of cubic feet of snow are dumped all over the rocky mountains. The tree line; which is the line that marks the point where trees no longer grow, is about 11,000 feet in Colorado. Many of our peaks have 3000 feet or more of open space to collect an awe-inspiring amount of snow.

Take all of that snow, and melt it all around March, and funnel it into just a few well-formed rivers, and you have the most amazing white water rafting anywhere. We have class 1-5 rapids, with class 5 signifying that even if you negotiate a rapid perfectly, you will still hit something. Adrenaline seekers will have no problem at all filling their need for danger.

The bus terminal in Boulder, CO can take you to any one of these mountain towns that have some of the best outfitters in the business, for about $15.

Pete Wise is a content developer and white-hat SEO Jedi. This article was written for Wilderness Aware Rafting, who specialize in Colorado White Water Rafting Follow Pete on twitter:  @MySEOHeadache

Money Saving Tips For Las Vegas Trips

Las Vegas holidays are one of the best travel deals under the sun. Book and save with the all inclusive Las Vegas deals and snag yourself a premium Las Vegas hotel centrally located in the heart of all the action. The Vegas discounts have just begun when you exercise some smart shopping and know where to get the best deals. Whether this is your first time to Las Vegas or just the next one coming up, take a few tips from the experts to save money and take total control over your trip.

Las Vegas Strip at sunset.

1. The Vegas Power Pass
The Vegas Power Pass is a discount card that may be applied to some of the hottest attractions in town. Visit Hoover Dam, The Atomic Museum and take in a few laughs at The Comedy Club for one low price. In addition, the Vegas Power pass offers valuable discounts and coupons for the Fashion Outlet Mall, an hour of free play at GameWorks and so much more. The Vegas power Pass is good until midnight on the day of purchase and is one smart way to take in the sights at the price you want to pay.

2. Shop and Save With Coupons
Shop till you drop at the fabulous Las Vegas Premium Outlets North located in downtown Las Vegas. Regarded as a utopia for bargain hunters, the hunt gets hotter with the purchase of a VIP Coupon Book to rack up impressive savings on fine merchandise and international brands. The coupons may also be applied to the mall diners, restaurants and coffee houses for sensational year round deals.

3. Gaming In the Morning
First-time gamblers or those who prefer to take their time with the bets will do best to avoid the peak hours in the casinos. From blackjack to craps, the crowd can be whipped into a frenzy making the cautious gambler a bag of nerves. To avoid the hustle and bustle, make your way to the tables at the crack of dawn. The dealers are ready and waiting and can slow down the action until you get your bearings. Ideal for those who are throwing down their first bet or some need time to have the rules explained, sunrise gambling is a great time to have some quiet space and play at your own pace.

4. Hang On To Your Change Cup
Like any big city, you have to be careful of your belongings. When playing the slots, be sure to keep your eye on your change cup at all times. Thieves often work in pairs to distract and make off with the loot. Each slot machine has a flat surface to each side and that makes it easy to keep your change cup in plain view at all times. The slot machine side tables are there for your protection, so be sure to use them instead of the floor.

5. Cheap Ground transportation
Las Vegas Boulevard, aka The Strip, has a fast, efficient and economical way to get around town. The monorail runs down Las Vegas Blvd from Mandalay Bay Hotel south of McCarren International Airport to the end of The Stip at the Sahara. One or three-day passes are avaialble for maximum savings and may be purchased at the monorail stations at the MGM Grand Hotel Las Vegas, Balley's, Flamingo, Harrah's, the Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas Hilton and the Sahara. The monorail runs from 7:AM until 2:AM Monday through Thursday and extends to 3:AM Friday through Sunday. Beat the high cost of taxis and car park charges with the clean and scenic route on the Las Vegas monorail.

Click here for great deals and offers on hotels in Las Vegas and the MGM Grand Las Vegas

How to Save Money on Your Ski Holiday

Save money on your next family ski vacation!

The depressed economy has kept many families from going on their usual winter ski vacations, although this doesn't have to be the case. There are a ton of ways to save money on every aspect of your trip if you are willing to search for great deals. Below are some helpful tips to help you reduce the costs of your family vacation this year.

Transportation

While flying is often a much faster mode of transportation, driving or taking a train are much cheaper. This is especially true for families. Not only can you save money on gas, but this money can be used to purchase snacks along the way, saving money by avoiding pricey restaurant stops. Also, if you plan to bring a lot of luggage, including any ski gear, driving or taking a train can help you save money that would be spent on checking extra baggage on a plane.

Hotels and Lodging

Hotels are often one of the most expensive parts of a family vacation. This is because people tend to book rooms from names they recognize from large chains. However, there are many other, less expensive options that include bed and breakfasts, condos and motels. While these may not include all of the same amenities as the larger chains, they will provide a nice place to rest after a long day of skiing. We enjoy this Vail lodging portal.

Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is going to help you cut costs in a number of ways. Many airlines or rail stations will provide a discount for people who book their trip in advance. This also includes planning ahead for peak travel times and avoiding the times of year which are most popular. Hotels and other lodging businesses will also usually offer a lower rate for those who book in advance. Shopping around is the best way to get the lowest prices available for your vacation.

Pack a Lunch

Another thing that many travelers do not consider is the high cost of food while traveling. While it is enjoyable to experience the local flavor at restaurants, this can add up quickly. It is a good idea to do some grocery shopping for your trip and take packed lunches when you go skiing. This will help you save a tremendous amount of money by avoiding the overpriced mountaintop restaurants. You can also purchase snacks for your hotel room and save money that way.

Ski Passes

Aside from transportation and lodging, ski resorts also have their own ways to help you save money. Vail's Epic Pass costs $649 and allows you to ski as much as you want whenever you want. This is a huge savings opportunity when you consider that the 7-day pass is $499. Other ski resorts have similar offers as well. These passes are an incentive for those who plan to stay for longer than a week. If you are a ski enthusiast, this is definitely the way to go. Some resorts also offer childcare for free, so this is definitely something to consider if you are traveling with your family.

Having Fun in Australia

Planning Your Next Vacation? Choose Australia!

Most people choose to take a vacation at least once a year. Many people have trouble deciding where they should go on vacation. Vacations are meant to be fun and exciting, but going to the same places every year can become dull and boring. That is why people should consider going on vacation in Australia because there are a plethora of fun activities to do. Once a person has went on vacation in Australia once, he or she will want to come back for vacation several more times.

What are some fun things to do in Southern Australia?

Visit the Adelaide Zoo

Australia is a very big continent, so a person might be wondering what region he or she should visit first. Southern Australia is a good place to start because there are a ton of attractions there. People who love animals will enjoy the Adelaide Zoo. The Adelaide Zoo features 1400 species of some of the most beautiful and exotic animals in the world.

One of the things that many people look forward to when they go on vacation is live theatre. The Adelaide Theatre Company has been around for 90 years, which makes it one of the oldest surviving theatres in Australia. There is always plays and other fun events going on in this theatre.

Many people go on vacation to escape the stresses of everyday life. Those who choose to go on vacation in Southern Australia will have the opportunity to escape at the Botanical Gardens of Adelaide. This place features some of the most beautiful trees and plants in the world.

Those who like to see ancient displays and exhibits will be thrilled to know that there are two museums located in Southern Australia. The Migration Museum shows exhibits that shaped the multi-cultural society in South Australia. The South Australia Museum is located in Adelaide and features exhibits and displays.

Golf is a big part of many people's life and Southern Australia is a good place to visit to play golf. The Tea Tree Gully Golf club is located in Adelaide. It features a 18-hole course and is also a popular place to host wedding receptions and other social events. There is also an international festival called Tasting Australia that goes on once every two years in Adelaide. This festival features some of the best wine, beverages and food in the world. There is also places for people who are interested in pokies.

How to Save Money on Your Trip to Australia:

Everyone knows that going on vacation can be quite expensive and going on vacation out of the country can be even more expensive. Below are a few tips that can help people save money on their vacation to Australia

*Book your trip in advance- People will be surprised at how much money they can save by booking their vacation months in advance. Many websites offer 30, 40 and even 50 percent discounts.

*Schedule your vacation during the Spring or the Fall- Booking during the off-season will help people save a ton of money.

Off The Coast of Africa

Visiting Mauritius on a Budget

While Mauritius is often regarded as an expensive destination due to its popularity and location in the Indian Ocean, it is nevertheless quite possible to travel there on a budget. Obviously, travel agencies and tour operators are running a business, which entails them trying to sell you the most expensive package as soon as you inform them of your desire to visit Mauritius. However, Mauritius is in fact a very affordable destination as long as you know what you are doing and take measures to ensure your budget does not spiral out of control.

Choose the off-peak season

It sounds like an obvious advice and one that should never have to made this list but it is still amazing how people overlook the simplest of considerations. Most tourists still want to visit Mauritius during the December festivities or during the months of July to August when everybody is going on holiday. They consequently end up spending a lot on air tickets and accommodation. The off-peak season in Mauritius is from February to May and from September to October, and traveling to the island during these months will allow you to save a lot of money.

Stay clear from all inclusive travel packages

Travel packages that include the air ticket, the accommodation, and various other things important to a holiday in Mauritius are often regarded as a great way to avoid the hassle of looking for each thing separately. However, the fact remains that these packages are often much more expensive than if you booked everything separately.

Unless you get a package that you know is advantageous, it is always cheaper to find your ticket and hotel separately. With so many websites offering tons of information on Mauritius, it's not as if it can be very hard to find out everything you need to know about the famous Indian Ocean island.

Choose a reasonable accommodation

One of the biggest factors that will initially make Mauritius look extremely expensive is the rates charged by the tourist accommodation throughout the island. Due to their popularity, it makes sense for the famous Mauritius hotels and resorts to charge a lot to tourists. A lot of people thus book these without being aware that there are also cheaper options that will nevertheless provide great lodging during their holidays.

In addition to those popular 5 star or even 4 star Mauritius hotels, there exist various types of accommodation perfect for budget travelers. These include smaller boutique hotels such as the Paradise Cove Ile Maurice Spa, self catering villas and guesthouses, lodges, and even apartments that are only five minutes from the beach.

Changing your currency

Changing your currency to Mauritius Rupees in the island when you get there is another method of sticking to a lower budget. All the banks in Mauritius have better exchange rates and changing your currency there before dedicating yourself to your well-earned break is as straightforward as it sounds. In any case, you will save a lot of money if you rely on these banks instead of going to a private agency where the rates will be different.

Coping With an Emergency Abroad

While emergencies when traveling overseas are rare occurrences, it is still important to know what to do if such an event should happen. When you are planning a trip abroad, it is easy to be caught in the moment, whether you are organizing itineraries, packing or telling your friends and family about your plans. However, you will benefit from knowing what to do before an emergency occurs; you must research where you can turn to for help, especially if you are traveling alone and you cannot help yourself.

Where to Find Help
The U.S. Department of the State provides Consular Services (or ACS) that issue travel advisories containing warnings and alerts. The agency works with embassies and consulates across the world to provide services on an emergency basis to Americans who run into trouble while traveling overseas.

How Can Consular Services Help Me?

Arrest
Statistics show that over 2,500 Americans are arrested while traveling abroad each year. At least one third of these arrests pertain to drug offenses. Americans have the same rights as everyone else. Regardless of what crime is commited or the country you are in, the United States government cannot bail you out of jail. However, Consular Services can offer to get in touch with your family and friends, educate you about the legal system of the country you are in, provide you with local attorneys from whom you may receive assistance, visit you to make sure jail conditions are acceptable and look for any possible misconducts or treatments on your behalf.

Death
While most of the 6,000 American deaths that occur overseas every year are people who have moved to another country from the United States, tourists can also fall victim to fatal illnesses and accidents while traveling.

As they do for roughly 2,000 Americans every year, the ACS can assist with both the returning of the remains of the deceased to state soil and with any necessary documents or paperwork that may follow. The ACS will confirm both the identity and the death, as well as notify the family members of the unfortunate event. The process of moving the deceased’s remains from another country back to the U.S. can be costly and is solely the responsibility of the family. However, the ACS can provide various options and costs for either the return or disposal of the remains.

Victim of a Crime
If you are a victim of a crime overseas, the Consular Services can help assist you. They will contact family and friends if you need them to, they can replace a passport that was stolen or even help to transfer funds from a bank account to your location in another country. If there is a medical emergency, they can help you obtain medical care but the cost is your responsibility. They will help you to find attorneys who speak English, should you need information about the criminal justice system or details about your particular case.

Terrorism
The best protection you can take against terrorism while traveling overseas is to avoid any country or area of unrest that has a history of terrorism. Extra protection can be found in gap year programs, which offer supervised travel opportunities.  If you do decide to visit one of these countries, you may be better off traveling alone with an uncertain itinerary, as solo travelers are often more random through the eyes of a terrorist. Avoid hanging out in areas where terrorists may congregate such as airports, bus stops or subway stations. Do not share your travel plans with anyone and avoid lingering in tourist areas for extended periods. Make sure you keep your luggage on you at all times and, above all, be aware of your surroundings. Your life may depend on it.

AdventuresCrossCountry.com provides gap year opportunities for young adults looking to expand their horizons abroad in a safer environment.

Travel tips within a budget – Saving your bucks and making your vacation memorable

In most cases we see that a vacation burns the hole in your wallet as you’re unable to save your bucks when it comes to sacrificing while on a trip. Everyone loves to go to a vacation as it means a change from the daily humdrum life but when you take into account the large amount of money that you spend during a trip, you may step back. You may follow certain travel tips so as to make sure that you save your dollars and travel on a budget. A budget is a necessity as it helps you keep a close watch on your finances so that you can monitor your savings and this is more important when you’re on a trip. Have a look at some tips that you may follow in order to travel on a budget.

1. Travel during an off season: You must be aware that there are particular seasons during which most people travel. This may be Christmas, New Year and other special occasions when people love to spend quality time with their loved ones. If you too travel during such a season, the travel fares will be higher than what you could get in an off-season. Thus, find out when the off-season starts and buy a ticket during that particular season to save money.

2. Try to curtail costs on rooms: When you’re travelling with someone, you must try your best to curtail the costs on the rooms by staying in a single room than booking two single rooms. This is one of the most overlooked travel tips. There are some particular hotels that charge huge amount on room costs and you must make sure that you avoid all such rooms so as to save money.

3. Try to get a cheap airfare: You can get a cheap airfare when it comes saving money while travelling. There are some tickets that are cheaper than on those that are booked on the weekends. People usually tend to travel more on weekends and therefore if you want to save your bucks while traveling, make sure you book the tickets on the weekdays to get them cheap.

Airfare Tip: Fly on weekdays.

4. Hire a travel agent: Before packing your bags, make sure you hire a travel agent so that he may help you throughout the entire process. He will have enough knowledge on the best places that can offer you a money-saving vacation and follow their advice so that it is possible to get the best deals while travelling.

Therefore, when you’re travelling with your loved ones, make sure you follow a budget and don’t stretch it while on the move. Carry a travel insurance policy so that you can get financial benefits if you come across any unfortunate circumstances. Follow the 4 travel tips mentioned above to stay on top of your finances.

KP: travel tips