Your Essential Guide To Gap Travel
2012 Edition The Benefits Of Teaching English in
China
EnsureAllYour
belongings are taken care of In This Issue •Las Vegas on a Shoestring Budget •Hitchikers Guide •Route 66
of
The gem Western Australia
Perth
in a l i u q Te
o c i x e M
an just h t it o t e Mor alt lime & s
Working Abroad •Acquiring the Right Visa •Become a Hollywood Star! •Pros and Cons
w w w. i g a p t r a v e l g u i d e . c o m
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South Africa derives its exceptional resource base for tourism with an area of 1.27 million sq. km, which is nearly five times more than that of UK, and a population of nearly 41 million. Diversity is what attracts tourism to South Africa.
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Contents Co n t e n t s
Overview
Travelling on a Budget
pg - 20 Become a Hollywood Star!
pg - 48 The Hitchhiker’s Guide
pg - 60 4 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
pg - 16 Plan Your Journey
pg - 34 Vaccinations Needed Before Travelling
pg - 54 Hostel Life
Co n t e n t s
The The Americas Americas Brief Guide To New York City
Gambling in Las Vegas
pg - 100 The Great America Road Trip
pg - 122 Spring Break
pg - 188
pg - 86
pg - 112 Route 66
pg - 126 A Rum Guide to the Caribbean
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Australia
Travel Around Australia
pg - 224 Australia Visa Changes
pg - 234 New Zealand
pg - 242
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Co n t e n t s
pg - 208 Nearby Islands
pg - 226 Studying In Australia
pg - 236 Tour The Set Of The Hobbit & LOTR
Asia Asia Studying In Japan
pg - 254 Malaysia
pg - 258 Cycling In India
pg - 270
Co n t e n t s
pg - 248 Celebrate The Mooncake Festival
pg - 256 Cheap & Cheerful: A Thailand Adventure
pg - 266 Best Of The Rest Of Asia
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Europe
Europe
pg - 278 pg - 284
Glastonbury Festival Experience
pg - 332 Oktoberfest
pg - 376
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Co n t e n t s
The Northern Lights
pg - 316 Hottest Nightclubs in Ibiza
pg - 350 Cheap & Cheerful: Eastern Europe
Co n t e n t s
Africa Africa and and Middle Middle East East Africa And Middle East Overview
pg - 394 Volunteering In Africa
pg - 402 South Africa
pg - 426
pg - 390
Spotting The “Big Five”
pg - 398 The Best Bars & Night Clubs In Africa
pg - 408 Best Of The Rest Of Africa
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Co n t e n t s
Africa and Middle East Co Middle East On A Budget
pg - 436 United Arab Emirates
pg - 442 Saudi Arabia
pg - 448
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pg - 430 Working In Dubai
pg - 438 Travelling To Israel
pg - 444 Best Of The Rest Of The Middle East
Co n t e n t s
ontinued
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Competitions
Win some amazing prizes!!
www.igaptravelguide.com/competitions.html 12 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
E d i t o r s Le t t e r
CRED I T S & CO N T R I B U T O R S Chief Executive Officer: Osmaan Mahmood Managing Director: Andrew Walsh Editor in Chief: James Drakeford Publishing Division: Jake Powers, Tom Carlton Art Director: Adeel Lone Senior Designer: Natalie Kate Reigel Designer: Ben Rogers Staff Writers: Haider Ali, Rohini Makwana, Jennideep Hayre, Joe Churchman, Rachel Nash Marketing Manager: Sylvia Estrada Research Manager: David Bateson Account Managers: Ibrahim Zulfqar, Norman Lee, Sarah Kent, Omar Sadik, Michael Raggett Competitions Manager: Arun Salik Administration Manager: Nafisa Safdar Accounts Assistant: Jenny Hunter Editorial Enquiries: Editor@igaptravelguide.com Advertising Enquiries: advertising@igaptravelguide.com
Editors letter Hello! Bon Jour! Guten Tag! Etc etc... If you are reading this magazine then chances are you have already thought long and hard about exploring the world, broadening your horizons and all the other cheesy clichéd sayings. Well, good for you! Whether you are a student, a graduate or already embarking on your gap year, we want to keep you flooded with great ideas for your next adventure. From giving you the low down on Travel Vaccinations and the latest information on Visa Changes, through to tips and tricks on how to stay safe whilst backpacking, hitchhiking or even just staying in a hostel; this guide will point you in all the right directions. All of our expert team of writers’ are speaking from experience and take great pleasure in sharing their infinite wisdom – and in some cases allow you to learn from their mistakes! Whatever tickles your fancy, there is something in here for everyone. This Global Guide takes a look at each continent, featuring the most popular destinations in every corner of the world. So if you already know which country you would like to visit, that’s great! We have indulged all of the gap traveller highlights such as Australia and the United States, as well as throwing in a few hidden gems such as the Cheap and Cheerful destinations of Eastern Europe and getting the very best out of the Middle East on a Student Budget. While all your friends are entering the scary world of nine-to-five, fighting among the masses for each available job in the saturated market that is the rat race; you will be lapping it up in the sun and embracing new cultures. No wonder those lucky few who get to experience the gap year lifestyle are the envy of all their friends. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to get bitten by the travel bug!
Ciao for now! d James Drakefor Editor-in-Chief
General Enquiries: info@igaptravelguide.com Fenice Media Ltd The Custard Factory Gibb Street Birmingham B9 4AA United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0) 121 270 9468 Fax: +44 (0) 121 345 0834 www.igaptravelguide.com
Jame s
Drake
ford
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OVERVIEW iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 15
T r av e l l i n g o n a B u d get
Travelling On A Budget
T T
ravelling the world is an amazing and life-changing experience. There’s one thing that unites all student travellers, no matter where they are from, and that is budgeting. If you don’t stick to a budget, you could easily over-spend and end up in with a mountain of debt when you arrive home, which will really bring on the holiday blues. So here’s our pick-of-the-crop tips on saving you money to help you get the best out of your budget.
Ho w To Bo o k horoughly research prices for the destination online and in travel agents. Travel agents may be able to help you find the ideal location and will give you that ‘face-to-face’ interaction, which is great for first time travellers. By going online and visiting travel agents you can find out if it’s cheaper to book the hotel and flights as a package deal or separately, not to mention you’ll find the best way to get the most of your travel money.
Booking in advance can save you lots of money, just as much as a late booking can. The advantage of booking in advance is that flights and hotels aren’t too expensive because prices go up with more demand. However, with a late booking you can benefit from cheaper deals because companies want to fill flights and seats. If you have access to a supermarket, visit the travel section as their advisers may be able to match your deal or help you find a better one.
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T r av e l l i n g o n a B u d ge t
w
A cco m mo d a tion
hilst full board accommodation sounds expensive it can save you lots of money on food and drinks. Meal prices easily add up especially in popular tourist destinations. Paying the average price of eight Euros per meal can cost you nearly 30 Euros just for three. Some places in Ibiza charge an extortionate 10 Euros just for a bottle of water. Having said that it’s definitely worth researching the prices of accommodation for self catering, half board and room only as well because you may find these more cost effective. If you decide to go for room only, self or half catering, see if you can take some food to enjoy on your days out from the hotel’s continental buffet. When you have internet access, research the restaurants that give you the best value for money, or you could ask at the hotel and tourist information centres. Rather than picking up lots of small bottles of drink, buy big bottles that you can store in your room which will last longer when you’re out-and-about. You can even pick up some cheap groceries and cook up what you desire. If you think you can’t cook then now’s a brilliant time to learn. This could save you a great amount on food, drink and accommodation costs.
S ettin g Ou t & Tra vel C osts
T
dget. Find out where bu ur yo of t ou k un ch a ke ta e destinations alon t is. It can be or rp ai e th here’s no doubt that travelling to m fro e er th t ge to y the least expensive wa popular place for public your hotel is located and what a in ’t isn l te ho ur yo If y. cit e th if you are in ht bookings and the flig cheaper to use public transport ur yo th wi s ice pr s bu tle ut sh s. Check out the nsport is usually tra ic bl pu transport then book a shuttle bu or s bu tle ut sh a g tin prices can differ. Get airport you will be landing in as xi. better value for money than a ta and time but it y ne mo of ste wa a like d un so get insured. It might ge relief for if and when Don’t cut corners, be assured to hu a be d an ls ve tra ur yo on t you though han getting yourself et tim could save you a lot more than ur yo d en sp to ys wa r tte l there must be be something goes wrong. After al when abroad. out of pain and serious trouble
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T r av e l l i n g o n a B u d get
In addition to a student card, a rail card can incredibly reduce your travel expenses; take for example if you’re travelling in an area like the United States or Europe. When travelling in a group find out if you can get group saver deals. Another important thing you must remember to do is to always hunt around for good deals because it’s not just hotels and flights that have special offers. Research public transport costs because there’s probably better things you will want to spend your money on than trains and coaches like attractions.
I
S ig h tseein g
t’s guaranteed you’re going to see some fantastic sights and experience brilliant things on your travels, so weigh up the pros and cons about the attractions and activities that appeal to you because this is another way you can easily get swept up in the action and spend more than you want. Think: “Do I really want to spend 10 bucks on this?” and “what am I going to get out of this?” Free activities can be just as fun as paid attractions. Visit the local beach or explore the destination through walks, the possibilities are endless. Your hotel is likely to point out the best free activities and may offer inclusive deals to top attractions, so that’s worth a try. In popular resorts, especially clubbing destinations, there are often ticket sellers on the strips. You may be able to get a bargain but it’s worth looking around and taking the ticket seller’s details, just in case you can’t find a better offer elsewhere. Combined together, these tips ensure you have the time of your life and come home with an extra treat.
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T r av e l l i n g o n a B u d ge t
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P l an Yo u r J o u r n e y
Plan YOU
Over on the iGap Travel Guide website you c for picking or plann
If you know the country that you would like to under ‘Jump to Country’ and tick the boxes and away you go. When you zoom in on the attraction, night club, museum or anything els the trip of yo
If you already know which resort or city you w under ‘Location Search’. This fab feature you where everything is th
Thinking of studying abroad? Instead of fi Universities and get zooming aroun
www.igaptravelguide.com
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P l an Yo u r J o u r n e y
UR Journey
can utilise our cool new Journey Planner tool ning your holiday.
o go to then select the chosen destination s to the important criteria for your holiday e map it will then show you where every se you are after which should help you plan our dreams.
want to go to, you can type the exact city in will then let you plan your days by showing hat you want to discover.
filling in a location, simply tick the box for nd the globe to fulfil your future.
m/journey-planner.html
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W hy W o r k in g ab r o ad i s a P o p u l ar Al t e r n a ti v e to the R a t R a ce
Why Working abroad is a Rat R
Nowadays, finding work as a graduate in the UK is becoming harder and harder. With the economy in crisis and over 1,000 people applying for a job in Poundland it seems impossible to get hired. Despite having a degree most young people are told they don’t have enough experience for basic jobs and most employers won’t hire graduates in fear they’ll leave within a few months for something better. One of the answers for those of you who are currently jobless could lie in booming countries such as America, Australia and Japan. With promising wages, complimentary sunshine and a whole new culture to discover what are you waiting for? Here’s how you can do it.
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W hy W o r k in g a b r o ad i s a P o p u l ar Al t e r n at i v e to the R a t R a ce
Popular Alternative to the Race
Popular Destinations These days, the most desirable countries Brits move to are America and Australia. With both speaking English and living a similar lifestyle to us, choosing to live in either country is easy. Other popular choices include Dubai for a high quality of living, Hong Kong for a major business market, Mexico for a cheap lifestyle and Singapore to live in the eighth richest country in the world. Spain also comes up tops with over 750,000 Britons finding jobs in the sunny country.
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W hy W o r k in g ab r o ad i s a P o p u l ar Al t e r n a ti v e to the R a t R a ce
s Popular Career Choice d easiest career paths an r te af ht ug so st mo the of ne O hing English. Japan is in the global job climate, is teac achers but currently it always looking for language te ty so there are plenty seems it’s an undiscovered quali , be able to speak ee gr de a is ed ne u yo All le. ab avail aboard. A typical live to g lin wil be d an sh gli En t en flu t the Middle East salar y varies where you teach bu sparse. Of course pays the most as teachers are in sired careers that some of the most popular and de time demand are the all nd ala Ze w Ne d an a ali Austr ers and dentists. If you ild bu rs, ee gin en s, rse nu s, or ct do you could be guaranare in any of these professions, teed a job.
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W hy W o r k in g a b r o ad i s a P o p u l ar Al t e r n at i v e to the R a t R a ce
The Ben efits o f Livin g Aboard
Dependin go will differ c n where you work aboard y ou our allows yo ntr y to countr y. Liv u to be c ing anywh benefits lose to ho ere in the disability me and y and care ou can re EU rs allowan sion. Livin ceive ce and y g in Ameri o u r c s a will allo as the US w you a c tate penpay little heaper life for food a one of the sty nd fuel an main reas d no taxe le ons you w because s. If ant to esc of the clim ape the U ate, then tries such living K is as your fanc Australia, Turkey, Sp aboard in couny. Canad ain and It a’s econo a a job as my is rising ly will tickle a nurse in and the £25,000, more than countr y could earn getting the avera you nearl UK. ge nurse y is paid in the
How to do it to get a transfer from the le ab e ar u yo if r sie ea is try Moving to a foreign coun foreign country. Thousands a r fo rk wo or r fo ng rki wo e ar current company you ur expenses (air yo as n tio op st be e th is ly al d it re of Brits do this ever y year an r and sorted out fo id pa lly ua us e ar as vis d an travel, accommodation etc) remember when job to s ing th nt rta po im st mo e th by your company. One of country and job you are ch ea to V C ur yo r ilo ta u yo searching is to make sure y national to understand it an r fo gh ou en ar cle is V C ur applying for. Ensure yo ication problems. un mm co y an ve ha n’t do u so yo just as difficult as finding be n ca rd oa ab b jo a r fo Regardless of all this, hunting d patience. Once you an e nc ra ve rse pe n, tio ca di one here so you need de mber to send us a postcard! me re , rd oa ab b jo ct rfe pe ur find yo iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 25
P r e p ar i n g t o Wo r k Ab r o a d
Preparing to Work Abroad So yo u’ve fo u n d yo u r p e r f e c t j o b i n a h o t s u n n y c o untry. Y ou’v e sorted y our v i sa a n d ha ve p a c k e d y o u r b ags b u t b e f o r e y o u jet of f we’re prov i di ng y ou w i t h o n e la st in sta l m e n t t o o u r w o r k ab o ar d s e ri es a nd gi v i n g you a l l ou r adv i ce a n d tip s. Y ou c an t h an k s u s l at e r w h e n you’re spea k i ng the l oca l lingo and c a n a n sw e r a l l t h e q u e s t i o n s ab o u t y o u r new home ov er the l oca l s du ri ng a fo r e ig n ‘p u b q u i z ’ .
E
Th e Essen tia ls
nsure your passport is in date, double check your visa is valid, finalise your removal date, transfer or close your bank account and ensure you won’t be homeless on the other side. It may seem like we’re treating you like an idiot but you won’t believe how many people make these mistakes. You want to make it as easy as possible for yourself, after all. Find out where your local British embassy is in the country you are moving to, no one likes to think about using an embassy aboard but they are always there to help if you get into trouble or even just want some advice. Discuss a ‘settling period’ with your new employer, a period of time that allows you to get settled and get acquainted with your new surroundings. Your new boss will more than likely offer this but if not, ask.
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P r e p ar i n g t o Wo r k Ab r o ad
B r ea k th e La n g u a g e Ba rri er
T
elling a foreign patient you can’t treat them because you don’t understand them will lose you your job. Or asking a confused foreign shopkeeper where he keeps his bread in English will only have you leaving empty-handed. Breaking the language barrier is essential; you need to know what language the natives speak. Find out what the most spoken language is in the country you are moving to and learn it. It’s important to do your research though because what you may think is the most spoken language, actually isn’t. For example, in Finland majority of locals speak Swedish. Take the time to learn it, go to classes, use language learning software or hire a teacher. Make it a priority and stick to it. And remember if you are moving to an English speaking country such as Australia or America try not to use strong British ‘slang’ as this could confuse the locals.
Determ in e you r Pa y Check
T
his applies to any job. Ensure you understand all aspects of your contract the employer is offering you, it should of course be written in English! Discuss and research the benefits you’ll receive in the country you are moving to.
Make sure you understand and accept how much holiday you’ll get and how the pension system works in the country you are moving to. If you are moving to anywhere in Europe, you can still receive British benefits such as employment, carers and disability benefit.
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P r e p ar i n g t o Wo r k Ab r o a d
T
Lea rn A b ou t th e Co u n try
his is the fun part! It’s important to know how the government, law constitution and healthcare work in your new home so research this; hopefully you may never have to use them. However researching about the culture in the country is also important, you’re not just going over there to work! Find out what the nightlife, restaurants, bookshops, supermarkets, theatres, football grounds and malls are like. Read all about the food, local music and basic lifestyle and you’ll feel clued up in no time. It’s all trial and error because you’ll learn and discover more once you’re living there and you can’t know everything but why would you want to? The mystery adds to the fun.
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Ac q u i r i n g t h e Ri gh t V i sa
Acquiring the Right Visa V i sas are complicated. Every country has a different set of working visas with different rules and regulations. If you want to work aboard, the visa is the most important detail to consider before you pack your bags and tell your friends and family about your new life overseas in America, Australia or Europe. With so much information about visas clouding your head it’s easy to get lost but don’t panic we’re here to help!
America may be strict about allowing foreigners into the country but provided you don’t have a criminal record and are planning to work or have a job offer you’ll more than likely qualify. You can stay in America on a visitor’s visa for a few months and look for work but you’ll eventually need to apply for a ‘greencard’ to stay in the country. If you have a job offer waiting for you in the states, your current company can transfer you or if you have family in the US, you visa will be granted to you with a lot less hassle than if you are considering other options. If you are born in Ireland however you can apply via ‘normal’ circumstances and your chances increase.
Emigrating to Australia and New Zealand is easier than you think. Nurses automatically receive high priority for a working visa; those available include visas for pre-arranged jobs and general skilled migration visas. The general skilled visa is perfect for graduates; you must be under 45 and be eligible for a profession listed in a long inventory of jobs including lawyers, surveyors, health administrators and radio technicians (to name a few). The visa method down under works as points system, a bachelor degree earns you 15 points but a doctorate degree will give you 20. Your work experience and age will also be determined by this. 30 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
Ac q u i r i n g t h e Ri gh t V i s a To get your hands on a Hong Kong work visa you need to fulfil specific criteria. You must obtain a work offer from a company in the country before you leave. If you find work whilst on tourist visa you will have to leave and then re-enter Hong Kong to activate your work visa. The basic guidelines are that you are required to have degree, have relevant experience in the position you’re applying for and you must agree to contribute to the local economy. Hong Kong may come across as stubborn but thankfully more applicants are accepted rather than denied. Luckily, if you are looking to work in European EEA countries such as Spain, Greece, Austria, Sweden, Italy, and France, amongst others, allow you to work freely without a visa but on a workers agreement permit instead providing you agree to the same conditions as the countries citizens.
Applying for a visa can be a lengthy process but providing you give all the correct information and documents it’ll be a breeze. Firstly, decide what type of visa you’ll need and qualify for. You can do all this online, making the visa application easier. With each via tailored for different countries and lifestyles make sure you read through the guidelines carefully. Once you’ve figured out the best one for you, we recommend you get yourself an immigration lawyer who can help you through the process and argue your case. If you win, you’ll be granted your visa and are eligible to work aboard. Depending on the country, you’ll have to renew your visa every couple of years so make this a priority, you don’t want to be extradited out of the country after all.
To find out more information about visas and to apply for a Canadian, Australia or American visa visit here. iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 31
&
Ac q u i r i n g t h e Ri gh t V i sa
Pros Cons
Of Tak i n g A Gap-year
T
aking a gap-year is not for everyone but neither is going straight into further education. It can be difficult weighing out the advantages and disadvantages but this is where we come in..... Is taking a gap-year really the right choice for you?
Pros
Take a break and return refreshed and re-focussed on what you want to do in life It clarifies your career interests and goals You gain a sense of maturity and independence Renews your passion for learning Develops your life skills Discover your interests and passions before committing to further education / work Improves job prospects with employers seeking grads with practical experience Travel the world and discover exciting new countries and cultures Meet new people and make friends for life Add unique experience to your CV which will help you get into further education/a job Find out whether a particular career is really for you and find your academic niche Employers look favourably on applications from those who took a gap year to travel or work Hone how to manage your money well 32 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
Ac q u i r i n g t h e Ri gh t V i s a
Cons
If you don’t like it when you get there, it might be too late to turn back Being so far away from your friends and your family I’ve never been away on my own before! Your study skills may diminish Your friends will have moved on and you will be a year behind them Can be costly if you don’t go about it the right way or don’t plan it well enough Could be dangerous –if you choose somewhere unsafe or you can catch a serious illness The tuition fees may increase by the time you get back
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Ac q u i r i n g t h e Ri gh t V i sa
Become A
Hollywood Sta
If you want to make it into the movies one day then why not become an extra? Don’t scoff; the most famous actresses and actors began their careers as extras. Brad Pitt was credited as a ‘partygoer’ after starring as an extra in the drama film ‘Less than Zero’, Megan Fox dirty danced in a club in ‘Bad Boys 2’ and Bruce Willis sat in on a courtroom scene in the Paul Newman film ‘The Verdict’. Read on if you fancy yourself as the Hollywood star. Becoming an extra is easier than you think. The number one quality you need is patience. Like any other job, it’ll take time before you get any responses back so you need to be dedicated and not give up at the drop of a hat. The job itself requires a lot of waiting around and you may be asked to re-take scenes numerous times. Registering at an agency is one of the best ways to stretch yourself around the acting world because you can join as many as you like. Or research local casting offices in your area, you’ll find plenty available and if you still have no hope university student filmmakers are always looking for extras. All agencies in the UK are listed here. 34 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
dar
Ac q u i r i n g t h e Ri gh t V i s a You can be an extra for just about anything! Films, TV episodes, music videos, adverts, student films, you name it, you can do it. Even just living in an area can get you a part in a film. When the ‘Harry Potter’ franchise filmed in small villages near Bath they hired local children to star as extras in ‘The Chamber of Secrets’. Visit the Screen International website to find out current films in production. You may not get to say any lines, it’s quite vital that you look ‘plain’ and ‘ordinary’ and you’ll probably be ignored by the biggest stars but you can earn a fair amount of money becoming an extra. The BBC pays around £73 a day whereas ITV pay slightly less. Film extras always earn more of course but that can also depend on the size and budget of the film itself. You can earn more for overtime and wearing your costumes but no matter what TV episode or film you star in your meals are always free. Not a bad day’s work.
Previous experience in the acting industry isn’t needed at all. However experience will help you to be considered more and give you a better chance because directors could ask if you have ever done any acting, even if you’ve only ever taken part in the school play of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ when you were 15, its still experience. Skills in dancing, fencing and horse riding will give you a higher chance of bagging a ‘walk on’ part. Casting agencies usually advise women not to dye their hair or cut their fringe because women extras with period hair do well in the extras industry. So if you’re hair is bright red unfortunately you won’t be accepted on a Jane Eyre TV series. You need to be available immediately for each casting you’re booked in for and make sure to arrive on time. Once you’re on a set, don’t hang around. Find your contact person immediately and remember you’re working so no pets, friends, cameras and especially children. iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 35
‘S e a’ t h e Wo r l d w i t h a C r u i s e Shi p Job
‘Sea’ the World w
Cruise Ship J A
career that is rewarding and enjoyable is hard to come by nowadays. Most people are stuck in a dead-end job struggling to make ends meet and not receiving the recognition they deserve. You may instantly think of tacky, camp entertainers when someone says ‘job on a cruise ship’ but there are plenty of worthwhile career opportunities available for everyone. More and more people are setting sail for a job on a cruise ship with over 1,500 employees aboard a ship according to Cruise ship network and with everything from hairdressers to sous chefs to personal trainer vacancies the prospects are never-ending. A list of all jobs available can be seen here but here is a lowdown of the best of the best.
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‘Se a ’ t h e Wo r l d w i t h a Cr u i s e S h i p Job
with a
Job
A rt A u ctioneer for Park West Sell art to merry guests and enjoy cocktails in exotic locations on your days off as an auctioneer. An enthusiasm for art and good sales skills are all that’s required to sell a 300 year-old Rembrandt to a delighted guest. Daily activities will include planning and setting up auctions and VIP art events taking place on your ship, managing the gallery, consulting your clients and holding seminars. You’ll work with colleagues who talk for their job so meeting outgoing, friendly work colleagues who become life-long friends is a given. This is not your average 9-5 job. Auctioneers find themselves with plenty of free time when ships are in port and when you’re waking up in a new country every day and can take advantage of the complimentary sun, sea and sand on offer, free time doesn’t sounds so bad. Earn: Commission based earnings can be anything from £1,400 up to £3,700 per month. Whilst onboard, all expenses will be covered for, including flights, accommodation and food. How to do it: Log on to the Mermaid Group for current vacancies or alternatively apply directly through famous stateside galleries such as Park West. Once successful, you’ll be flown to America for an all expenses paid, rigorous 4-week training programme that includes being trained in public speaking, knowledge in art and different production techniques. You’ll be whisked out to sea days after.
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‘S e a’ t h e Wo r l d w i t h a C r u i s e Shi p Job
Y out h C o uns ello r o n th e D i s n e y C r uise Lin e Get a job on one of the most magical cruise ships on earth and you’ll find yourself in the Caribbean whilst having a catch up with Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Entertain and interact with energetic, lively children as a youth counsellor and with perks including complimentary passes to all Disney theme parks, merchandise discounts and free Disney movies this one job really is for the kid in you. As a youth counsellor you’re personality needs to be warm, friendly and have experience leading large groups of children. You’ll be supervising up to 1,000 children a day so experience is necessary. Other day-to-day tasks will include assisting on activities at ‘Castaway Cay’, the private island owned by Disney. Counsellors will also assist on Goofy’s PJ party and assist with ‘Snow White’ performances held onboard the ships. But it’s not all magic, as you’ll need to clean the play areas, prepare food, clear up equipment and you’ll work 70 hours a week with no days off. Earn: A weekly salary with overtime being paid at an hourly rate. Benefits will include medical care, disability and death payouts. How to do it: The official Disney cruise line website lists all the youth counsellor posts at present and explains the application process. A training course is provided before being hired which consists of two days training in Florida and on onboard safety, first aid and public heath preparation.
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‘Se a ’ t h e Wo r l d w i t h a Cr u i s e S h i p Job
Nu rse aboard Celebri ty Helping to save lives can be stressful and emotional so when it all gets too much instead taking a break outside in rainy England, take a break outside in the blazing heat in the Mediterranean. It’ll make doing a stressful job much more worthwhile. You’ll be responsible for providing day-to-day care for the guests and crew in the Infirmary and responding to emergencies whenever they occur on the ship. You’ll also be required to undertake various administrative tasks. Of course, like any nursing job, hours will be erratic but you’ll be allowed days off and get all your meals and travel for free. Earn: Most cruise lines pay around £1,800 a month for nurses. How to do it: Celebrity Cruises are currently recruiting for nursing staff. No special licence is required to work abroad as any nursing licence will do providing it remains valid for your contract overseas.
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‘S e a’ t h e Wo r l d w i t h a C r u i s e Shi p Job
B a r t e nd e r on th e Ro y a l C a rib b ea n Aboard a cruise ship merry guests are always thinking about their next drink. Making a cocktail you invented yourself in a classy bar aboard a ship taking you to the Bahamas could be your ideal new job. In addition to serving and mixing drinks you’ll need to stock the bar, prep for happy hour, over look schedules and manage you team of staff. The phrase ‘the customer is always right’ is exceptionally crucial working aboard a cruise ship. You’ll need to be friendly, outgoing and of course patient to deal with those customers who have one too many. Earn: Between £1,100-1,700 per month but bar managers who manage the entire cruise ship bar staff can make up to £2,400. How to do it: Previous experience is necessary for cruise bartending jobs as you’ll be thrown straight into the deep-end. Royal Caribbean are currently appealing for loads of bartending job, log on and send your CV and covering letter and get an immediate response.
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‘Se a ’ t h e Wo r l d w i t h a Cr u i s e S h i p Job
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T h e B e n e f i t s O f S t u d y i n g A broa d
The Benefits Of
Studying Abr
Tuition fees are going up to over ÂŁ9,000 in England, but do not let this put you off a fantastic career and achieving your goals. Many university students are looking to study abroad, and with the bonuses it has, studying abroad is now being recognised even amongst future undergraduates. Universities are extremely supportive of international study, some even mandate it. In the tough world of employment, you need to positively make yourself stand out from the crowd. Employers are interested in your international educational experience, as it gives you the edge over other candidates. Studying abroad also looks great on your curriculum vitae and is a great topic of discussion during interviews.
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The B e n e f i t s O f S t u d y i n g Ab r oa d
road ich h w e s o o h c o t How and o t o g o t y t i s univer what course Identify your career goal(s) and research what country and universities are best suited to these goal(s). Being in a top environment for your study will boost your chances of success. Research how the universities rank against others in the world here. From this ranking you can also discover which offer financial grants to international students, which is a handy way to save money. If your desired university does not offer grants then it is quick and simple to discover their tuition fees, which are considerably cheaper. Choose a subject that interests you, as you’re more likely to excel in a subject that you’re keen to learn more about. Do not be afraid to ask any queries you may have directly. Email is the most efficient way to get your message across, or if you can, call the University for a quicker Response. You never know until you ask. Whilst applying to a university abroad, consider their pros and cons and how they suit you. For example, what is their academic study like? How high are their pass rates? Will you enjoy living your life here?
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T h e B e n e f i t s O f S t u d y i n g A broa d
Experience portunities await you op e iqu un d an stic nta fa ny ma So yourself in an exciting when you study abroad. Immerse rience first-hand the new cultural setting. You will expe beliefs and traditions. countries lifestyles, perceptions, d effective way to an le ab joy en re mo no o als is There being surrounded by learn a new language than by xt and not in a boring it; hearing it being used in conte ability to speak more classroom. Not to mention the sired by many top than one language is greatly de employers. y not gain a new When on an academic break, wh to explore your suroutlook on life by venturing out up a new hobby or roundings? You could even take ing abroad gives you dy Stu t. len ta n de hid a r ve co dis le, by getting to know the freedom to meet new peop al students. In fact, the locals and fellow internation ational friendship you can get a ready-made intern nder ful environment. and professional network in a wo
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The B e n e f i t s O f S t u d y i n g Ab r oa d
Fear Many you ng people a home for a range o re afraid to move a f reasons, comfort. from finan way from There is n cial worrie o doubt e your acad s to d u cation wil emic skills, l broaden which will better ch ultimately ance of a giv successfu er or late l and hap e you a r you are pier life. S obv independ oonent and o iously going to ha ve to be vercome times out new chall of 10 peo enges. N ple will mo work, and ine ve away will therefo fr o m home fo re need t Why not t o have th ake this o e right skil r pportunity yourself, a ls. to s you ada pt to new learn more about that arise a . After all conquerin nd exciting challen make you g g your fea ab r ’s can on es Not to me etter person and ly more emp ntion you lo w yable. ill save tho pounds. usands of valuable This is a m ar v experienc ellous way to get a superb ew univ a whole ra hilst saving thousa nds of po ersity nge of ou unds. The tst you feel w re is elcome, w anding universities that will m hilst great tions. You ake ly bo wil dinar y me l gain invaluable k ost your career op n mories to cherish fo owledge and extra r a lifetime or.
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Tr a ve l V ac c i n at i o n s : Wh at Yo u N eed To Know
Travel Vaccinatio Need To Know othing worse n ’s re e th t u b , e time of your lif st e b rt and fae fo th m o e c b n e a th c m g o n fr lli Trave road – away b a ss e n ill n a g n rvices. se l a ic d than contracti e m s it d n countr y an w o r u o y f o ty ri a mili having to e n lo a t le , n o ti a ll when on vac e w n u – without g m in o e ro b l s y te o jo h n e e y th Nobod covering in re e m ti r u o y f o e worse. ty th ri r jo fo a m rn e tu th a d n ke e sp avels could ta tr r u o y n o ti c te the right pro sses/dise n ill s u o ri se f o e know-how th in e ’r ur adu o o y y n re o ff su n o e g in to tt You need tion before se c te ro p t h g ri viruses and e th s, n e o v ti a c h fe d in n a st s in ease ct you aga te ro p ver and s n fe o ti w a llo in e c y c , a a ri V la s. a venture lera, rabies, m o h c e lik s se a e even serious dis polio. comes to it n e h w r e d si n you must co s g in th re travf a o u r o e y b n m e u h n w , a g There are you are visitin y tr n u o c e h T aying, your st s. n e o ti b a ill in w c u c o a y v l trave staying, where e b ill these are w u g o y in o g d n lo e b w ill o w h elling, nd what you a s n io ns you it o d ti n a o in c c l c a a ic v d h e ic m h age and lp determine w e h ill w h ic h w rs to all important fac hy. will need and w CVP) is (I s xi la y h p ro P f accination o V f o te a c ifi rt vaccinated e n C e l e a n b o e ti v a a rn h u te o In An ies to show y tr n u o c ires proof u e q m re so ia it is b v ra A to i d d require example, Sau r o F s. ajj and H se a e e th is it d is c v ifi c to e h is sp against eople who w p r fo n o ti a in c c a of a meningitis v es. Umrah pilgrimag cts that e ff e e d si e v a h l vaccinations e v a tr in a rt e at the spot c ss t e a n th re ry so a r w o e re b tu Also high tempera a , a se u a n , ss e include dizzin of the injection. ill give you a w e w , rt a st to clue where a ’t n e v avel vactr a t h u u o o b y a if w y o rr o kn w Don’t ts you need to c fa l a ible trip ti ss n o e p ss e st e e b th e n th o e n run-dow nsure you hav e to s n o ti a is n u m problems. h lt a e h g in cinations and im n te a g any life-thre n ri te n u o c n e t u witho 46 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
Tr a ve l Vac c i n at i o n s : Wh at Yo u N e e d To Know
ons: What You
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Vac c i n at i o n s N e e d e d B e f o r e T ra v el l i ng
Vaccinations Needed
) Hepatitis A (HAV
A virus which s ti ti a p e h e th y liver caused b e th f d and wao o n fo o ti d c te fe a in in n m a ta is n HAV ht through co g u a c andards is st It r . o d o e p m re a fl a in s re e e becom ct where th ta n o c n o rs e -p o -t ter or by person of hygiene. (yellowing e ic d n u ja h it w e symptoms ik -l u fl re e v se e patitis A virus. c e n H e ri e e th xp e e v a le h p y o Pe e eyes) if the th f o s n sub-cone a it h c ri w e d m n A a th in u sk o S e of th merican and A l a tr n lar areas e u C p , o n p a st ic fr o A m , n e ia th The Ind Far East are e th d n a e p ro u tinents, Eastern E this virus. g in h tc a c to e pron ld ideally u o sh n o ti c je in irus, a single v is th st in a g a ven be given e d n e is a n c u it m h im g u e o b h lt To re travelling, a fo e b cts your for ks te e ro e p w n o o ti tw a n in ke c c be ta ure. This va rt a p e d r the first r e u ft o a y s f th o n y o a m d 2 e 1 th up to se is given 6 o d r e st o o b A nty years. e about a year. tw to p u r fo u rotect yo one which will p
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Va c c in at i o n s N e e d e d B e f o r e T r av e ll i ng
d Before Travelling
Hepatitis B (HBV) HBV is another more serious typ e of hepatitis virus which results in liver infection - it can be fatal and even cause liver failure. It is sp read through contact with contamina ted blood or bodily fluids by ha ving, for example, unprotected sexual intercourse or sharing needles wi th an infected person. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pa ins, lack of appetite, flu-like sympto ms such as tiredness and headache s, fever and jaundice are amon gst the symptoms of the Hepatitis B virus. There are two phases of inf ection with the hepatitis B virus: an acute phase which remains for a short period of time or a chronic phase which can go on for mont hs without having any noticeable symptoms. The hepatitis B virus can occu r anywhere in the world but ca n be found particularly in Eastern Euro pe, Russia, India, China, South an d Central America, Africa and So uth East Asia. Several different vaccinations ca n be used to prevent Hepatitis B – most of which require a cours e of three doses. The second dose is typically given one month afte r the first and the third dose is gi ven five months later. You will have a blood test after the immunisat ion course is complete which should confirm you are protected agai nst Hepatitis B for life. A combined Hepatitis A and B vaccine is av ailable so you are immune from he patitis overall.
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Vac c i n at i o n s N e e d e d B e f o r e T ra v el l i ng
Tetanus
ntral nervous e c ’s y d o b e th n that attacks o ti c soil which fe in in d re n e u v fo se a a ri is te s c u a Tetan of tetanus b e p ty tely not a a y n b u rt d fo se u is a t c u b is It d system. cut or woun a h g u normal ro e th th y d h it o w b e re e th rf r can ente acteria inte b e th m o fr s n xi e to contagious. Th muscles. d n a s e rv e n f o activity rs should be lle e v ra T . d rl o w roughout the th d n or may not u g fo n ki e c b la n is a c n o s ti u n n Teta medical atte re e h w sms in the s a a sp re a le sk sc ri u h m ig re h f a wary o ommon signs c st o m e h T ll. ess or pain in a fn t if a st le d b n a ila g a v in a w be ifficulty swallo d h it w g n lo a e jaw and fac er or back. the neck, should before, three n o ti a in c c a v s u en the tetan iv g n onth apart. e m e b e t n o o n h c e v a a e h , n u If yo ed to be take e n b ja llowed by s fo u n is ta th r te e ft e a th f rs o a doses ken 5 – 10 ye ta e b ld u o sh tected against ro se p o d e r b e ill st w o u o o b y A ears later so y n te t to children. o n e sh r iv e g st is o n o o b ti r a e in th ano tetanus vacc e th , K U e th In . tetanus for life
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Va c c in at i o n s N e e d e d B e f o r e T r av e ll i ng
Typhoid Typhoid is a bacterial infectio n that can be extremely fatal. It is caught by consuming food or dr ink that has contaminated with Salmonellae typhi or spread throug h contact with human faeces (st ools) usually as a result of poor sanitat ion and personal hygiene. Typhoid can be found througho ut the world but is commonly fo und in areas with poor sanitar y and hygiene standards. High risk ar eas include: Africa, the Indian sub-co ntinent, South and South-East As ia, the Middle East and Central an d South America. Symptoms ra nge from diarrhoea, constipation, su dden onset of fever, severe he adache, nausea, abdominal pain to loss of appetite. The Typhoid vaccine should id eally be given one month be fore travelling but can be given clo ser to your travel date if need s be. It is not 100% effective so you wi ll still need to take precautions with personal hygiene and avoid co ntaminated food and drink.
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Vac c i n at i o n s N e e d e d B e f o r e T ra v el l i ng
Yellow Fever
ssed onto a p is h ic h w n o ti tal viral infec fa lly a o types ti n tw te re o a p re a e is h r T e s. v e Yellow fe ed mosquito st fe in f o s e it b d in monkeys e n th u h fo g u lly a ro th su u s n is a h hum fever – whic w llo e y iduals who le iv g d n in ju r: in e v rs u fe c c w o llo of ye h is rare and ic h w – r e v fe w and urban yello in forests. ra l a ic p o tr in rk wo and bleedrs e v fe s, e h c a miting, muscle o v d parts of n a in s a n se io u g a n re l s, a e h ic c p Heada w fever. Tro llo e y f o s n o ti as prone to a re ic a d k in is r -r a h le ig c h re re a a ing outh America S d n a a ic fr A n sub-Sahara this disease. on for ti c te ro p e id v ro vaccine will p r e v fe w llo e y r to travele o ri th p f s o y a se d o n d te le f, g A sin , a minimum o n ke : Some ta te e o b (N st u . m d e d ir n u a q rs re ten yea dose will be r e st o o of Prob n o a ti , a e in m c ti c is a th V f r ling. Afte Certificate o l a n o ti a rn te gainst this In a n d a te e ir a u in q c c re a s v ie n tr coun you have bee s e v ro p h ic h w ) phylaxis (ICVP disease)
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Va c c in at i o n s N e e d e d B e f o r e T r av e ll i ng Typhoid Typhoid is a bacterial infectio n that can be extremely fatal. It is caught by consuming food or dr ink that has contaminated with Salmonellae typhi or spread throug h contact with human faeces (st ools) usually as a result of poor sanitat ion and personal hygiene. Typhoid can be found througho ut the world but is commonly fo und in areas with poor sanitar y and hygiene standards. High risk ar eas include: Africa, the Indian sub-co ntinent, South and South-East As ia, the Middle East and Central an d South America. Symptoms ra nge from diarrhoea, constipation, su dden onset of fever, severe he adache, nausea, abdominal pain to loss of appetite. The Typhoid vaccine should id eally be given one month be fore travelling but can be given clo ser to your travel date if need s be. It is not 100% effective so you wi ll still need to take precautions with personal hygiene and avoid co ntaminated food and drink.
of the travel Remember these are just some fore taking any vaccinations you will need be fficient research su do to re su be – ad ro ab s trip to do whilst on because the last thing you want rious illnesses. holiday is put yourself at risk of se travel vacciClick here for more information on of what vacnations and a comprehensive list lling to different ve tra re fo be ed ed ne e ar es cin destinations around the world.
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The Hitchhiker’s Guide
The Hitchhik
H 54 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
but is also the nd ou ar t ge to y wa ive expens itchhiking is not only an in et a range of new peome to ty ni rtu po op ue iq un most social one. It’s a a company to a grandof .O .E C e th e lik ne yo an ple, who can vary from many people. There to g” kin “ta d an ” ng ivi “g s mother. Hitchhiking mean rtation, which you may po ns tra of rm fo n fu d an are risks with this unique out hitchhiking whilst st be e th t ge to s tip me have heard of, so here’s so being safe.
The Hitchhiker’s Guide
ker’s Guide Preparation
B
efore you start hitching a ride there’s a few things you need to prepare. Buy a map of the area – these can usually be purchased from a local shop or information centre. This will give you and the driver better awareness of how to reach your destination. Plus it’s really handy if you get lost.
Along with your valuables there are a few other basic things worth taking like a hat, torch, pocketknife, sun-screen and blanket. It’s best to be prepared and these items don’t cost or weigh much. Pack some food, preferably with disposable packaging as you could be in for an adventure and you don’t want to go hungry. Depending on the length of your trip it might be wise to bring a towel. Learn the language. This can help improve your communication skills and is great to have a conversation with other passengers, especially if the journey is long. Learning the language also shows that you care therefore the passengers are much more likely to be friendly to you. The intimate atmosphere in the vehicle means there’s always room for a friendly conversation. Have a look at the hitchhiking dictionary for a quick and basic language guide. Check out the laws of where you are hitchhiking as it may be illegal in some countries or on some roads. It doesn’t take too much time to do a quick internet search, or you can ask the locals. After all, this quick investigation could save you money, time or even a trip to prison.
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The Hitchhiker’s Guide
Staying Safe
A
lthough hitchhiking can be fun, inexpensive and adventurous, you need to remember to stay safe. If in doubt about anything in the car including passengers, turn down the ride or ask the driver where they’re going and tell them you’re heading in the other direction.
Before jumping into the car, make a note of the vehicle’s registration with its make, model and colour; if you have a mobile phone, text this information to a friend. Likewise, take a description of the drivers and other passengers, if there are any. Regardless on the driver’s appearance and car, choose wisely to avoid danger. If possible, sit in the passenger seat. Rear doors can have child locks on them and be less easy to get out of in an emergency. If you have to sit in the back then check the child lock is off. Always keep your belongings on you and not elsewhere in the car. While pedestrians may have the right to walk along most roads, doing so in some places can get you arrested, cited, ticketed, or verbally warned. Find out about which roads you can and cannot walk along either online or by asking the locals. As a general rule try and avoid very busy roads and those without a clear-marked footpath. In some areas where it is legal to walk on busy roads, it may be wiser and safer to stay on the ramp, depending on the infrastructure of the road, like bollards and billboards. Alternatively you can book a ride in advance online through companies such as Road Sharing, although this will cost you some money it could save you lots of time. If you choose to do this, then still follow the above precautions. Request the driver’s ID when you meet; most will understand this precaution. Using a digital system is good for safety as it provides a record of communication between driver and passenger.
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The Hitchhiker’s Guide
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The Hitchhiker’s Guide
Attracting a ride
O
bviously getting a ride is the most important part of hitchhiking. Wearing bright clothes can get you spotted more easily. Always try and wear a smile, even if people are nasty because you never know what adventure you could be in for. This will make you more approachable.
Two is a magic number. Hitchhiking with a friend is much safer than jumping into a car on your own. If possible, travel as a boy and girl pair because this gives you a higher chance of getting a lift. A couple or group of girls are more vulnerable and are therefore more likely to be preyed on. Likewise a couple or group of boys can often make the driver feel intimidated. Likewise, travelling in large groups often limits your options to people carriers and coaches.
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The Hitchhiker’s Guide
Choosing A Ride
N
eedless to say, make a good judgement about the car. A MercedesBenz is much more likely to survive the journey than Del-Boy’s Reliant Robin. Sometimes you get an offer that brings you in the right direction. This can be okay but if you’re in a place where lots of cars stop, it could be better to wait for an offer that takes you a lot further. If not then you can ask to be dropped in a well lit and frequented spot to hitch your next ride like a supermarket, toll place or petrol/gas station. When possible, try to agree about where to be dropped off so you don’t end up in the middle of nowhere.
Some drivers may charge a fee for your journey so it’s worth asking in advance and being prepared rather than having it sprung on you. Usually the cost just covers their gas/petrol expenses.
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H o s t e l Wo r l d
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Hoste
eepy horror film cr a e lik ng hi yt an be to have hostel experience doesn’t selecting the so , ad he ur yo er ov of ro ea but it does have to provid save money to y wa t ea gr a is l ste ho ing in a right one is important. Stay If you’re lucky you might . le op pe t ea gr me so et on your travels and me free breakfast. even be able to pick up a
el Life
H o s t e l Wo r l d
How To Choose
N
o matter what area you are staying in do your research. Reading reviews can uncover all sorts of scary stories about bed bugs and dirty linen, while looking at pictures can also give invaluable insight into the reality of that hostel. Think about what you are getting for the price you pay. Anything under ÂŁ10.00 a night is generally under ÂŁ10.00 a night for a reason!
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H o s t e l Wo r l d
Meet New People
M
any people staying in hostels are backpackers travelling from all over the world so everything about your hostel experience will be a melting pot of cultures. If you are travelling to their countr y of origin then why not get some tips and advice? Or better yet, if they have been in the country a bit longer than find out what they have already seen. You never know you may just uncover a hidden gem.
Sharing a room with four people is an ideal amount because you will get the chance to mix without being too crowded. Anything above eight people and you will risk not being able to get a decent night sleep to re-charge your batteries for your next adventure.
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H o s t e l Wo r l d
Live the Experience
D
on’t be afraid to find out what they have going on in your hostel. Most hostels will have lively and vibrant bars with very happy, happy hours, and plenty of activities such as karaoke.
There is a good chance your hostel will have leaflets and a website; check out this information as you might find a new tour that will take your fancy or even find some vouchers and discounts. If they don’t then it’s worth asking the hostel staff.
If your room is not what you thought it would be don’t be afraid to let them know. They are there to help you, you are paying for their service and after all, you don’t get if you don’t ask.
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H o s t e l Wo r l d
What to Take
Y
ou might be pleased to know most hostels give a free breakfast, which is usually very basic and served at a specific time so make sure you know when it is. Hostels occasionally provide microwaves during serving time so you could cook your own ready meals and microwaveable food. As well as this, make sure you take a padlock; one for each zip on your bag and one for your locker which is usually provided in your room. Safety is essential and for the sake of a ÂŁ5 padlock the last thing you want is to lose are your possessions.
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H o s t e l Wo r l d
Get a Job
I
f you are planning on staying in the countr y for a while then maybe its worth finding out if your hostel has any job vacancies. You will find many hostels have reception jobs, cleaning work or even bar work. This is a great way to meet new people, get to know what’s happening in your hostel, keep your working skills in tact and most importantly pick up a bit of extra pocket money.
No matter what hostel you stay at you are bound to come back with at least one story. Even the worst situations will make the most fantastic stories. Experiencing hostels for your self is the best – and most fun – way to learn, but keep these things in mind in order to get the most out of your hostel experience.
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S t ay i n g S af e
Playing It Safe – (Liam Ne While the risk of being kidnapped by a gang of human trafficking Albanians may be slim you can never be too vigilant and who knows you may actually find yourself in a re-enacted scene from Taken so here is our ultimate guide to playing it safe when you are going abroad with friends for the first time.
Look After Your Valuables This may sound obvious but your valuables (camera, phone, passport, money etc) can easily be snatched if you’re not careful. So always keep them on you in a safe place. Take a decent padlock for the zips on your bag, that way nobody can get into them when you are out and about. Plus the cleaners won’t be able to get to your valuables whilst you’re out or sleeping in your room. Always take out insurance for you and your valuables. It may sound like a waste of money and time but trust us when we say it can save you in the worst case scenario and will be a huge relief if something does go missing or gets broken while travelling.
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S t ay i n g S af e
)
eeson Style
Stick To The Hotspots There is no harm in going off the track a bit but stick to the hot spots. You are much more likely to be welcomed into a safer, more well-known destination than in an area that isn’t so well visited. Sticking to the hotspots will allow you to discover the cultural side of things except in a much safer environment. Besides, the hotspots are hotspots for a reason – this is usually where the action is and we’re sure you wouldn’t want to miss that.
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S t ay i n g S af e
y Choose Taxis Carefull xi at the time may ta om nd ra a o int g pin jum st hil W consuming, there is a seem adventurous and less time rribly wrong. After all chance something could go ho f, have a dangerous you don’t want to be ripped of experience the girl me sa the gh ou thr go or r ive dr taxi t includes you too). tha s uy (g gh ou thr nt we n ke Ta m fro ow yourself enough If you choose to travel by taxi, all eferably from your time to book one in advance, pr e. hotel or tourist information centr
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S t ay i n g S af e
Keep Dr inks Wi th You At All Tim es When
you ’re cocktail b on a night out with y the poo y l, beach o our mates, sipping easy to g a r even a re et swept up in the s t a means let u ra n t, it ’s flow of ev yo er ything. your drink ur hair loose but a By all lways kee . Having y p o an ur stances is an unwan drink spiked with un eye on te known sub ruin your t ime. So w d experience and a sure wa hat do yo to dance y u do whe , you ask. n you wan to Hold your drink t by covering it with you or put you r hand r th the hole in umb over the bottle . When bu ying wate r make sure it ’s bottled with a sea led cap. This way you w on’t get a ny nasty surp rises that can ruin your t rip.
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Ac c e s s o r i e s & M u s t H aves
Access Mus
&
lar environment cu rti pa a ck pi y ma u yo hen considering a holiday ire a plethoqu re ll wi ts or sp ow sn e pl exam that you wish to enjoy. For pe. Maybe you want to ro Eu rn ste Ea or ps Al e th ra of equipment in a surf board, or golfing nt wa ll wi u yo h ic wh in , ia go surfing in Austral you will want to have y wa er th Ei . ai ub D of ns gear for the lush gree for your trip abroad. e bl la ai av t en pm ui eq st the very be
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Ac c e s s o r i e s & M u s t H av e s
sories st Haves Snow Sports
B
efore even contemplating snow sports you must come fully prepared for the frosty and biting weather you will encounter in mountainous terrain like the Alps. Imperative is the basics which include a winter jacket, snow boots, thick woolly gloves and a hat to match. Once you have these in order you may look to additional accessories to help make your holiday even better on some of the best snow slopes in the world. For kids sledges may be the choice form of transport. The adults on the other hand will be looking at the best snowboards and skis money can buy. There are numerous types you can get but for first timers entry level snowboards are recommended as they have far more safety bolts in place to prevent you suffering injuries. For those that are a little more advanced perhaps you may want to consider taking a freestyle or freeride snowboard in order to really test your skills to the limit. Skis can be purchased just as easily but because they are harder to control and more dangerous than snowboards, a helmet is highly recommended. Wrist braces and body armour can help protect you further if you are person that is safety inclined and you would not be folly to think this way as the slopes can cause great difficulty for novices that will be falling over a lot. Those worried about looking good rather than safety need not worry about fashion faux pas as they can buy snow clothing in brands, though Gucci and Prada may not be available! iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 71
Ac c e s s o r i e s & M u s t H aves
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Ac c e s s o r i e s & M u s t H av e s
Sun, Sea and Sand
M
ore appealing to tourists will be the thought of chilling out on a beach sipping cocktails. For the livelier tourists that go somewhere where the tides are high and rip-roaring like Australia, you may wish to go surfing or water-skiing. But before you do this heed the advice of guides to make sure you do not stray further than you need to go. Also important is sun-block. One cannot stress how prone people will be to the threat of skin-cancer, especially in countries where the heat can be ferocious in the summer, so lather yourself up in cream and protect yourself from the rays of the sun. Pack clothing conducive to the weather like shorts, flip-flops, bikinis and for those that are not shy Hawaiian shirts. Just because beaches don’t have grass does not mean you can’t have sports fun. Take a beach ball and set up a volleyball tournament. Starting off with a pair you are bound to attract more people and this is a great way to get to know the local people. If you get bored of this then hop into the sea and go for a swim to cool down from your exertions. Whatever you do the key issue here is stock up on accessories depending on where you are going to go. This way you won’t have to waste time on your holiday looking for vital essentials like a helmet for a ski run or sun cream in order to help protect your skin from frying in the intense heat on a beach.
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S k i i n g G o ggl e s
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S k i i n g G o ggl e s
Skiing Goggles Ski Goggles Keeping your eyes protected on the slope is essential but why choose comfort and practicality over style? With these ski goggles, you have both at the same time.
Adidas ‘ID2 Pro’ goggle £135.00 These are a great all-rounder when it comes to taking up skiing. They’re very popular and it’s easy to see why with an interchangeable lens system that you can change in just two clicks. Available in green, black and a white ‘crackle effect’ pattern the ID2 pro goggles allows you to change your lens in snowy conditions and again to the second lens for improved light filtration when the weather improves. The way Adidas have designed the pair prevents you from having to remove and change the lens manually, perfect for ski beginners.
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S k i i n g G o ggl e s
Recon MOD Live £249.00 and ‘Recon-Ready’ goggle series Recon have introduced the latest in ski goggle technology: the MOD live. The instrument attaches to any pair of Recon-ready goggles (Alpina, UVEX, Briko and Zeal Optics) and transforms them into a GPS-enabled pair. They are non-obtrusive, offering real-time feedback which includes speed and altitude analytics. They can also notify you of the temperature, and time and when linked up with any Android smartphone they’ll provide navigation, resort points, text messaging and ‘buddy tracking’-a system that finds your other MOD Recon-ready friends.
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S k i i n g G o ggl e s
Bolle ‘Gravity’ design £90.90 The Bolle collection is a favourite amongst celebrities such as Matthew McConaughey and Mickey Rourke for their performance and style. The lenses on the ‘gravity’ keep them fog and scratch free and they come with a waterproof breathable vent which works by equalizing air pressure between the lenses and preventing any moisture build up. The ‘gravity’ comes in a classic black with blue or red lenses.
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S k i i n g G o ggl e s
Zeal Optics ‘Level’ goggle £90.00 For the most stylish ski goggles on the market there is nowhere else to look but the Zeal Optics ‘level’ design. With five different styles to choose from, each featuring a unique element such as custom patchwork or a textile inspired pattern luxury oozes out of each goggle. The oversized series is also practical, featuring anti-fog and high density lenses.
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S k i i n g G o ggl e s
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e B e h T rds a o b w o n S S n o w b o ar d s
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t s e round A s S n o w b o ar d s
The snowboard defines the boarder so don’t settle for second best! You’ll find the perfect balance of style, performance and simplicity with these boards.
GNU B-Pro Limited Edition board £465.00 The women’s GNU limited edition board features a bright ‘day of the dead’ graphic design. Decorated in pink, green and blue sugar skulls and featuring the GNU logo in bright colours, this one is not for the fainthearted. If you love standing out from the crowd and have a unique sense of style this is for you. The B-Pro also comes with a sugar skull designed felt blanket for protection.
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S n o w b o ar d s
The Burton Operator £254.00 Fancy riding the same board as legendary snowboarder Shaun White? For the pro snowboarder the Burton ‘Operator’ was made for you. The ‘operator’ has a playful feel that has been upgraded from past models for limitless adjustability. Its flex and shape are directional and this one is perfect for big boots. Coming in a timeless white colour the board also features some unusual geometric shapes and a pair of eyes. Well if it’s good enough for Shaun...
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S n o w b o ar d s
Head XL Matrix in 155 £121.00 The Bolle collection is a favourite amongst celebrities such as Matthew McConaughey and Mickey Rourke for their performance and style. The lenses on the ‘gravity’ keep them fog and scratch free and they come with a waterproof breathable vent which works by equalizing air pressure between the lenses and preventing any moisture build up. The ‘gravity’ comes in a classic black with blue or red lenses.
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THE
AMERIC
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CAS
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N e w Yo r k
Brief Guide To
NEW YORK CITY 86 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
Y
N e w Yo r k
N
e w Yo r k i s ar gu ab l y t h e w o rl d’s most renown ed t r av e l d e s t i n at i o n o f t h e U S A a nd a ci ty l i k e n o o t h e r . T o s o m e p e o p l e i t ’ s k nown a s ‘The Ci t y o f Dr e am s ,’ ‘ T h e B i g A ppl e, ’ or ‘The C i ty T h at N e v e r S l e e p s .’
The div e r s i t y an d v i b r an c y o f t h i s metropol i ta n ci ty is e x tr ao r d i n ar y . Yo u c an f i n d an ecl ecti c choi ce of c u ltu r e , f as h i o n , m u s i c , f o o d , ar t a n d peopl e roa mi n g the stre e t s o f c e n t r al M an h at t an and i ts surroun di n g bo r o u gh s .
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N e w Yo r k
One o f the m a n y ic on i c l an d m ar k s an d at t r ac t i on s N ew Y ork bo ast s c a n be c o m m o n l y f o u n d i n t h e l i k e s o f f i l ms, musi c v i deos and ar tw o r k p a r tic u l ar l y t h e M an h at t an s k y l i ne. Toweri ng sk yscrap e r s, g ig a n tic br i d ge s an d s c e n i c p ar k s ar e a common si ght aro und the m e tr o p o li s . T i mes Sq u a r e , the S t at u e o f Li b e r t y , Ce n t r al P ark , the R ock efel l er C e n te r a n d Em p i r e S t at e B u i l d i n g ar e t h e most wel l -k n own am o ngst the la r g e li s t o f t o u r i s t at t r ac t i o n s t h a t N ew Y ork ha s to o ffer. Y o u m a y w ish to p a y an e m o t i o n al v i s i t t o G r o und Z ero, the pl ace whe r e the e x tr em e l y t al l t w i n t o w e r s o n c e stood. W i thout quest i o n the r e is sti l l an am b i e n c e o f gr i e f t h at rema i n s wi th a mi xt ur e o f su r r e a lis m at t h e t h o u gh t o f t h i s ar ea i n rui ns f ol l owi ng t he 9 / 1 1 te r r o r is t at t ac k s .
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N e w Yo r k In NY C you conve nienc have an ex e t eateri es yo from soph ensive ran u istica g One r ted re e of cuisi estau can find ne st y r ment s the ant worth ourself ta aurants t s availabl st o fa ea e breat h-tak ct it’s a r ting in is ing any w cheap and at your in ev orld d c when T elicac heerful the sp g sights o olving roo he View. T i f f ectac beaut ular s the city a top restau he name c es. y. ra ompli kylin n e ligh d is best s nt that ov erlook ts up een a The S t nig to rev u ht-tim eal a every bway is a n e n exp da ew fo erien u famil y manic nd ce in of the iar an itse city. L d you ’ll so ondon Un lf but if y on fin d ou’re used d you erground to the then rself Rega t rdles e h a i s will sily g s of w ing a e all to t t hethe ing a nd di o r you round scove New Y ’ r ring the ork C new p e an avid ity a tr laces, t leas every aveller or t onc enjoy o e in t heir l ne should experi ife. take a trip encto
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Was h i n gt o n D C
Washingto W
When people think of Washington DC the first thing that will spring to mind is of course the White House. American politics is at the heart of this city, however there are many other fascinating attractions this place has to offer – most of which can be conveniently found within close vicinity of each other – hence why Washington D.C. is the second most visited state in the USA.
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Was h i n gt o n D C
on DC A
The Whi te House
s most people will know, the White House is American’s most famous political and national landmark which is home to the president of the United States of America. George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt are amongst the many American presidents who have walked the corridors of this renowned building. At present it is home to Barack Obama but this may soon change after this month’s presidential election.
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Was h i n gt o n D C
N a t i o na l M a l l
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he National Mall is a two-mile long stretch of beautiful parkland - it is the best place to visit to find the majority of the capital’s famous landmarks, national monuments and diverse museums. These include the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument – at a whopping 55 feet it is the tallest building in the entire area, and the Capitol Building – one of the three houses of US government. You’ll be lucky to see the newest addition to the National Mall – The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. This location also makes for a great picnic spot and is host to numerous outdoor festivals and public rallies and protests.
Smi thsoni an In
B
eing the largest mu Smithsonian Instituti are free) and galle 400 different spec orang-utans.
Take an educational trip to you can explore the rockets that orbited the earth amon icons.
The Museum of Natural Histo and anthropology collectio discovering, including the 45
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Was h i n gt o n D C
st i tu tio n
useum and research complex in the world - the ion is made up of 19 museums (most of which eries plus a free national zoo which features cies of animals like pandas, lions, elephants and
the National Air and Space Museum where s that once blasted into space and the aircraft ngst many other interesting air and spacecraft
ory showcases dinosaur skeletons, archaeology ons and other unique and historical gems worth 5-carat Hope Diamond.
“Washington DC is a vibrant metropolis and even though we’ve listed the state’s famous attractions there are still many other things to experience so we won’t be surprised if you decide to take another trip.” iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 93
Lo s An ge l e s
L
Labelled the ‘City of Angels’ and rightly so, Los Angeles is the largest city in California and is home to world-renowned attractions like Hollywood, Universal Studios, beautiful sandy beaches and famous movie stars. You’ll be overwhelmed with the amount of things to see and do in Los Angeles but don’t worry we’re here to help – below you can find our pick-of-the-crop attractions that we recommend you check out when taking a trip to LA.
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Lo s An ge l e s
E
Uni versal Studi os xperience the action of your favourite movies by taking a studio tour and visiting the sets of popular Hollywood blockbusters such as Jurassic Park, King Kong and Jaws – which will make you feel like you’re in the movie yourself. You’ll even have the chance to go behind the scenes and check out some of the props used in such films. Take a ride on the thrilling roller coasters in the studios which have been inspired by movies like the Revenge of the Mummy and Transformers 3D - this will definitely get your adrenaline pumping. This attraction has something for everyone but if you’re a film fanatic this place will be heaven for you.
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Lo s An ge l e s
Ho l l y w o o d
N
o trip to Los Angeles is complete visiting the infamous district of Hollywood which is home to the world-famous Hollywood sign. LA’s most famous boulevards can also be found here like Sunset Boulevard known for its nightlife, Hollywood Boulevard which is home to the Hollywood Walk of Fame which features the names of Hollywood’s top movie stars on gold stars engraved in the ground, and Melrose Avenue which is known for its fantastic shopping and dining spots.
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Lo s An ge l e s
B e a c he s
LA
has more than twenty beautiful beaches like Santa Monica beach and Malibu beach for you to choose from. People flock to these to take part in different types of beach and water activities or to lounge around and catch some rays in the glorious sunshine. Take to the waves for a spot of surfing or if you prefer beach-based sports why not play a game of volleyball.
“Los Angeles is a vibrant metropolis that offers masses of exciting attractions which will keep you endlessly entertained for the duration of your stay.� iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 97
S an F r an c i s c o ’ s
San Francisco California is amongst the top ten list of places to visit in the USA and we can see why with it being home to the vibrant city of San Francisco. San Francisco’s vibrancy spreads across its landscape, culture, history and people as well as being a very liberal city – it was the first place in the USA to permit gay marriage. With so much to explore you won’t know where to begin so we bring you our guide to the essential places to visit when in San Francisco.
Golden Gate Bridge Experience for yourself the iconic Golden Gate Bridge (pictured) which you will have undoubtedly seen as the setting for major Hollywood blockbusters. This famous landmark is one of the most photographed sights in the world. Whilst you’re here, why not pay a visit to the Golden Gate Park to chill out when you’re not out adventuring. The park is much larger than New York’s Central Park where a buffalo herd, remote-controlled boats cruising on the river, windmills, museums and gardens are among the common sights found here. 98 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
S an F r an c i s c o ’ s
Alcatraz Discover the extraordinary and gripping histor y of Alcatraz Island – just off San Francisco – which is famous for being a former pri son that housed America’s notorious criminal ma sterminds like Al “Scarface” Capone. You will ne ed to take a ferry to reach the attraction which means you’ll be able to experience the beauty of this amazing city on its beautiful waters and makes a change from always being on foot. Or tak e a cable car around hilly “San Fran” – be sure to check out the bizarre Lombard Street where yo u’ll see cars taking several sharp twists and turns down this steep and winding hill.
Chinatown If you never get around to visitin g China the next best alternative is to take a trip to San Francisco’s Chinatown – the largest ou tside of China. Here you’ll come across the un ique culture, eat some delicious Chinese food an d can roam the funky shops for special Asian orn aments to take back home. San Francisco is a perfect getaw ay for students who like to add a touch of divers e culture to their travels, and being home to some of USA’s most notable attractions we guara ntee you’ll have the time of your life.
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G am b l i n g i n Las V e ga s
Gambling in T 100 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
st extravagant mo ’s rld wo e th to me ho is – which d in scenes he famous Las Vegas Strip un fo be n ca h ic wh rk ma nd s Vegas la e Hangover. casinos – is a renowned La Th d an en ev El ’s an ce O e kbusters lik of popular Hollywood bloc of gambling but there t bi a g in do t ou th wi te le mp No trip to Las Vegas is co re taking the plunge. fo be ow kn to nt wa y ma u yo are a few tips and advice Nevada is 21. in le mb ga to e ag m mu ni Like the fact the mi s Vegas and get La ly on d an e on e th in g mblin Here’s our simple guide to ga ing penniless. av le t ou th wi p tri ur yo of t the best experience ou
G am b l i n g i n Las V e gas
Useful Tips & Information
I
n almost every Las Vegas casino you will get free drink privileges whilst gambling – even if you’re just playing a five cent slot machine – and who can say no to a free drink, especially a student. If you’re taking advantage of the free alcoholic beverages make sure you don’t get too drunk to the point where you end up betting everything you have. If so, stick to soft drinks. Oh and remember to tip the waitress, it’s the least you can do when you’re getting free drinks. Gambling can either be destructive to your bank balance or a fun gaming experience if you go about it the right way. Take a set amount of money with you and leave your bank/credit cards back at the hotel. Play at tables with a low maximum bid so you don’t lose a handful of money all in one go. Chances are you won’t walk away a jackpot winner but at least you won’t walk away poor.
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G am b l i n g i n Las V e ga s
Best Casinos The Bellagio Renowned for its magnificent fountains which sit on the doorstep of The Bellagio, this casino is ranked as the second-best in Las Vegas after opening in 1998 along with the hotel. With a simple flip of the card or roll of the dice you can play Black Jack, Three Card Poker and Roulette – just like the professional poker stars do when tournaments are staged at The Bellagio. The MGM Grand The MGM Grand has the largest casino in the whole of Las Vegas which is divided into four areas. There are more than 2,500 gaming machines, 140 poker and table games, a state-of-the-art race and sports book (betting area) and an exclusive poker room. The normal slot machines range from $1 to $1,000 but the special high limit slot machines can pay-out up to $500, 000 in winnings. Mandalay Bay With its exotic architecture, tropical backdrop and 135, 000 square-foot gaming environment the Mandalay Bay casino is every game player ’s paradise. There are over 2000 slot and video poker machines and 120 gaming tables offering Black Jack, Craps, Roulette and Baccarat. Play favourite pokers games like Texas Hold’em in the Poker Parlour – they hold free poker lessons to teach those who don’t know how to play. Caesars Palace Being the oldest on the list, the Roman-inspired Caesars Palace is broken up into three separate casinos offering masses of gaming space. There are numerous gaming tables, slot machines, bars and a 250-seat sports book (a place where a gambler can place bets on sports competitions) that spread across the 129, 000 square-foot casino.
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G am b l i n g i n Las V e gas
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L as V e gas o n a S h o e s t r i n g Budget
on a shoestrin
I
pocket aces e os th or l, ee wh a of in sp liday fund on the with no money ck stu lf f you have blown your ho se ur yo d fin ll we y poker table, you ma best that Las e th e didn’t quite pay off on the nc rie pe ex to w ho re’s our guide on and plenty of time to kill. He shot your budget. er ov ve u’ yo en wh r fe of to Vegas has
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L a s V e gas o n a S h o e s t r i n g B u d get
ng budget
Circus Acts at Circus Circus Resort
E
very day between 11am and midnight, the Circus Circus Hotel Resort is home to the world’s largest permanent circus. Circus shows are held every half hour by performers on the centre stage of the Carnival Midway. Acts include: acrobatics, flying trapeze, aerial gymnastics, juggling, roller-skating and contortionists plus no circus is complete without energetic and colour ful clowns – free and fun entertainment is guaranteed here so who could ask for anything better.
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G am b l i n g i n Las V e ga s
The Ethel M Chocolate Factory
T
he Ethel M Chocolate Factor y is the best place to visit if you have a sweet tooth. You get a behind-the-scenes look at how popular American chocolate and candy is made and will enjoy tasting famous branded confectionary like M&M’s, Mars Bars and Milky Way. Opposite the chocolate factor y is the Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden which features one of Nevada’s largest collections of cacti. Wander around the gardens and explore over 300 species of plants on display.
o g n i m a l F e h T t a t a t i b a H e f i l d l i W Flamingo
T
habitat is home to a flock life ld wi is th – me na its to e he Flamingo Resort is tru ans, turtles, ducks and koi. sw s, uin ng pe an ric Af as ll we of Chilean flamingos as mingo sign outside the Fla nk pi ht ig br e th th wi o ot Don’t forget to take a ph . Whilst you’re at it you rip St s ga Ve e th on ns sig ic resort – one of the most icon Las Vegas sign. to me co el W ed wn no re e th may as well take one next to
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G am b l i n g i n Las V e gas
The Aquarium at the
O
Silverton Hotel
pen 24 hours a day, the Silverto n Hotel’s focal gallon reef aqua point is their 11 rium which is hom 7,000 e to more than 4,0 three species o 00 tropical fish a f stingrays and sharks. The Aqu nd the ‘Best Free A arium has been ttraction’ in Las named Vegas. There is also a mermaid lounge that features tw well as daily fish o 500 gallon je feeding shows tw llyfish aquariums ic e women dressed a day and live as as mermaids swim mermaid shows which see real ming amongst th e underwater cre atures.
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Florida
K
nown as the Sunshine State, Florida has something for everyone. If you love kicking back and relaxing on beautiful beaches, enjoy sampling a variety of different cuisines, dancing the night away at a wild night club or finding your inner child at the Walt Disney parks then this is the destination for you. With warm winter temperatures and scorching summers, Florida’s weather is inviting all year round.
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Florida
M
Mi ami iami is popular all year round and it’s easy to see why with tons of beach resorts, roads filled to the brim with chic fashion and shopping malls and buzzing nightlife. Every Miami beach features golden sands, clear blue water and beautiful people- like something out of a movie- so whichever one you choose, you can’t go wrong.
Head to South Beach for the active bar scene with clubs such as ‘Nikki Beach Club’ and ‘Club Deep’ (dancing underwater-yeas really!), renowned restaurants such as ‘News Cafe’ (where breakfast is served 24 hours a day) and ‘Cuban’ and Lincoln Road shopping with stores like Victoria’s Secret, All Saints, J. Crew and Steve Madden. Viva Miami!
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Florida
Wal t Di s n e y Re s o rt
D
isney World is located in Lake Buena Vista, near Orlando and is by far the most magical and popular theme park in the world. The four theme parks to get tickets for are The Magic Kingdom where you’ll find famous rides such as Space Mountain and Cinderella’s Castle, Epcot for famous international showcases, Hollywood studios with rides such as The Tower of Terror and Pixar Palace and Animal Kingdom. The resort also boasts two heavily populated water parks; Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach which shouldn’t be missed.
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Florida
T h e F l o r i d a Keys
T
he Florida Keys islands run south west from the city of Miami. They’re considered the American Caribbean with coconut trees alike and features world class fishing, scuba diving, snorkelling and kayaking for the water baby in everyone.
One of the famous islands, Islamorada is known for its fishing. Take a lesson or enjoy a relaxing fishing trip on the island and don’t leave without sampling some of the local island cuisine; a variety of different fish of course. Big Pine Key Island is famous for its boating, snorkelling and diving. The island holds the stunning Looe Key coral reef which is dying to be explored so dive in. Whatever island you choose to visit, get to know the friendly locals around you. They live a relaxed, desirable lifestyle and may offer you some traditional Caribbean food and a glass of rum as a thank you for visiting the island.
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T h e G r e at Am e r i c an Ro ad Tri p
The Great
AMERICAN Road Trip
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Th e G r e at Am e r i c an Ro ad T r i p
T
he gr e at Am e r i c an r o ad t r i p i s a drea m f or a n y tr a v e l l e r , i n c l u s i v e o f al l d e s t i na ti on s l ess tra v e lle d as w e l l as t r i e d - an d t r u e . P a v e the wa y thro u gh t h e c o u n t r y ’ s f i n e s t l a n dsca pes, f rom b e au t i f u l c o as t s o f t h e P ac i f i c Ocea n to the R ock y m o u n t ai n r an ge s , t o t h e p i c t u resque sta te of C a l i fo r n i a an d b e y o n d . T h e y c al l i t the grea t Ameri c a n r oad t r i p b e c au s e y o u c an n o t h el p f a l l i n g i n l ov e w ith e v e r y t h i n g Am e r i c a h as t o o f f er; i t i s si mpl y se n sa t i o n al . P i c k u p an Am e r i c an muscl e ca r, put the p e d al t o t h e m e t al , an d c r u i s e a l ong the open roa d. R o ll do w n t h e w i n d o w an d gaz e u pon pea cef ul countr ysid e l an d s c ap e s an d f an t as t i c sta tes; ea ch of them ha vin g t h e i r o w n c h ar m i n g p e r s o na l i ty.
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T h e G r e at Am e r i c an Ro ad Tri p
The Pacific Coast
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r u ise a l o n g a c o as t l i n e t h at l o o k s l i k e i t ha s been ha nd cra f ted by g o d . Fr o m t h e p l u s h gr e e n f o r e s t s of western W a shi n gton D C to t stu n n in g b e ac h e s o f S o u t h e r n C al i f orni a , thi s route i s a dv enturou o p e n a n d o u t s t an d i n gl y b e au t i f u l .
Sta r tin g i n t h e n o r t h w e s t at O l y mpi c N a ti ona l P a rk ; most of the Pa c ific Co as t r o u t e o f f e r s s c e n i c v i ews of the ocea n . P a rti ci pa te i n a spo t o f fishin g i n t h e c o m m u n i t i e s o f Was hi ngton. Af terwa rds, cross the Co l u m bia R ive r a n d f o l l o w t h e p e ac e f u l c o as tl i ne south, a s you pa ss throug wo nde r fu lly d iver s e s o c i e t i e s . Al o n g t h e j o u rney you wi l l pa ss through the grea t R e dw o o d F o r e s t s , w h i c h o f f e r n o t h i n g l ess tha n n a ture’s purest bea ut y. H e r e the ta lle s t an d m o s t m aj e s t i c l i v i n g crea tures l i ne the Av enue of t Gi a n ts. W hilst y o u r h e r e b e s u r e t o v i s i t t h e gol den a ge of ca r-borne touri st s : d r ive thr o u gh a w i l d e r n e s s o f m e s m e r i s in g trees, see ra re a n d f a sci na t i ng sig hts o f ho us e s c ar v e d o u t o f t r e e s , an d ma n y more si ghts a nd a cti v i t al o ng the w a y.
it h fr ie n d w t; is ex s oe d e is d il l s ee th a t p a ra w ou y th ou s er l a tm os p h er e. h fu rt te fu s re ta a tu d en n v a e ou y in s tl s A th e P a ci fi c co a of s w te a n d lo ie v ta s s l, ou a d on en p ti a tu n s , e ls th ca in ly lo ev el op m en t w it h d om fr ed ct te ro s u ch a s m ou n p s re tu ea cr re ra r T h e co a s tl in e is fo a s a re a h a b it a t re a ed ct te ro p e h T ca l p a rk s . g ra y w h a le s . d n a s or d n co , s on ta in li ro w y ou rs el f th n ca ou y t, s oa C lo n g th e P a ci fi c a ee s P a ci fi c d e n h a T o . d es to ch ch ea u b m ed o s s s h W it x on th e s u n -b le la re d n a s ie it iv ct a d es ti n a ti on . in to n u m er ou s er h ot o n e k li ou y p ti v a te C oa s t w il l s im p ly ca
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The Longest Road
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tr e tc hin g r igh t al o n g t h e l an d m an y c al l “The best”, thi s route i s a n od ysse y fr o m t h e N o r t h P ac i f i c O c e an t o t he shi n i n g N orth Atl a nti c Ocea Ex p lo r e a d o z e n d i f f e r e n t s t at e s as w e l l a s f our sta te ca pi ta l s, pl us W a in g to n D C . N o o t h e r r o u t e c an o f f e r y o u so ma n y of the na ti on ’s most m a g n ific e n t l an d s c ap e s ; t h e S i e r r a N e v a da , Appa l a chi a n a nd R ock y Mo u n ta in s, t h e t i m e l e s s f ar m l an d s o f t h e G rea t P l a i ns, a nd the v a st d ert s o f Uta h a n d N e v ad a.
From its sta r tin g p o i n t i n S an F r an c i s c o , t he route cuts a cross C a l i f orn i a ’s mi dse c tio n , p a ssi n g t h e s t at e c ap i t al at S ac ra mento, bef ore f ol l owi ng the ro u te o f the O ld P o n y E x p r e s s t o t h e s h o r e s o f La k e Ta hoe a n d i nto N ev a da . T hr o u g ho u t this e x p e r i e n c e o f a l i f e t i m e , y o u’l l get to k n ow the f ri endl y l oc wh o a r e a ll to o e age r t o s h ar e t h e i r e n t h r al l i ng stori es wi th you. F or the N e vad a p o r tio n o f th e r o u t e , e n j o y t h e t r an q u i l sol i tude tha t ca n on l y be brok e by the so u n d o f y o u r e n gi n e .
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As you tra vel from w est to east, cinating h fill your im istory of S agination i licon Valle the mid-18 with the fa y, across t 80s, before sh e arriving a Wild West close to the t f t rontier of he Atlanti oldest and c Ocean wh preserved c The Longes ere you wil olonial-era t Road rou l be landscapes te has it al in America l and muc h more. .
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The Oregon Trail
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e t the b e s t o f b o t h w o r l d s w i t h l o n g est route i n Ameri ca , the O r e g o n T r ai l . F r e e y o u r s e l f o n t h e wi de open spa ces of the W e st to t h e l i v e l y E as t . S u p e r l at i v e a ttra cti on s i n cl ude a t le a st two w o n d e r s o f t h e w o r l d , N e w Y ork ’s N i a ga ra F a l l s a n d W y o m i n g’ s Ye l l o w s t o n e N at i o na l P a rk . The grea t ci tie s o f B o s t o n an d Ch i c ago o f f e r a c ul ture a s i ntri gui n g as t heir histo r y. Mi d w ay ac r o s s t h e c o u n t r y y ou ca n v i si t two nota bl e mo num e n ts, M o u n t Ru s h m o r e an d Car h e n ge . As you tra v el f urther, ea t y o ur he a r t o u t in thei r r e s t au r an t s an d r o ad - s t ops tha t of f er nothi ng l ess t ha n d e lic io u sn e s s . S e e Am e r i c a’ s h i s t o r y f or yoursel f i n thei r museums a n d fa ll in lov e w i t h t h e i r i d y l l i c t o w n s . Am azin g ly the r o u te s t i l l r e m ai n s f ai r l y u n e x pl ored by n on-Ameri ca n s. T hi s i s a w o n d e r fu l ad v an t age as y o u ge t t o b e i n the centre of n a tura l and ex c e lle n t A m e r ic an c u l t u r e , s e e i t s h i s t o r y a nd ta ste the f uture. Ev eryt h in g a lo n g the O r e go n T r ai l w i l l c ap t i v at e y ou.
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Southern Pacific
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e n tu r e thr o u gh l an d s o f c u l t u r al d i v e r s i t y a nd psychi ca l l y rewa rdin g la n d sc a p es . S t ar t y o u r j o u r n e y i n t h e l i v el y ci ty of Sa n D i e g o , w ithin a f e w h o u r s ar r i v e i n t h e u n i quel y bea uti f ul southwest d e se r ts, w hic h c r e at e a p i c t u r e s q u e l an d s ca pe i n the sun set. N o othe r r o u te c a n o f f e r p l ai n s o f N e w M e x i c o and Texa s wi th such cl ea r a n d w o n d e r fu l v i e w s o f b o t h l an d s . C r u i se to the Ea st a nd expl ore the no t o ri ou s c u ltu r e a n d f r i e n d l y l o c al s i n a f i n e s el ecti on of sta tes i n cl udin g t he fam o u s Mississipp i , Lo s An ge l e s an d Cal i f o rn i a . Me e t a fri en d ly r a n g e o f p e o p l e an d p r e v ai l i n g c u s t oms a l ong the v i sta ri ch rou te; al l hig hlig hte d b y a r an ge o f l i n go s , ac c e n t s a n d f a n ta sti c l i f estyl es ju s t w ai t i n g fo r yo u to g e t i n v o l v e d i n . I n d u l ge y o ursel f i n a sen sa ti on a l ra n ge o f fo o ds tha t le n d a n e w m e an i n g t o t h e w o r d ‘Authenti c’. It i s not di f ficul t t o di sc o ve r a c u lin ar y c u i s i n e h e r e . T h e y say t ha t e ve r ythin g i s b e t t e r w h e n t h e s u n i s shi n i n g a n d i f tha t i s the ca s e t hen yo u a r e in fo r f an t as t i c t r e at . Wi t h v i e w s a n d f un l i f estyl es tha t a r e seco nd to n in e in A me r i c a, t h e S o u t h e r n P ac i f i c route wi l l l ea v e you i n ore.
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Atlantic Coast
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F o llo w in g the At l an t i c Co as t r o u t e w i l l o pen your eyes to a whol e new w o r ld . Fr o m w i l d l y d i f f e r i n g b e ac h r e s o rts a n d pri sti n e l engths of coa s c ity a n d w ild e r n e s s , b e i n t h e h e ar t o f d i v erse Ameri ca n cul tures a nd se the g r e a t A tlan t i c O c e an i n w ay s l i k e n e v er bef ore. P a ss through qui rk se a side to w n s o r t ak e p ar t i n a s p o t o f f i s hi ng i n countl ess tra di ti on a l fishin g villa g e s . T h e s e p ar t s o f t h e r o u t e ha v e gl ori ousl y uncha n ged mu sin c e the da y t h e f i r s t e x p l o r e r s f i r s t l ai d eyes on them centuri es a go. T v ent ure sta r ts a t the w o r l d f am o u s S t at u e o f Li b erty pa ci n g through excepti ona st at es of A tla n tic C it y , V i r gi n i a an d t h e c ap i t al W a shi n gton D C then rea chi ng sun-ki sse d sta te o f Fl o r i d a.
In bet wee n the be a u tif u l b e ac h e s ar e t h e gr an d V i ctori a n cha rms of C a pe Ma y to funky attr a c tio n s o f O c e an Ci t y i n M ar y l an d . South C a rol i na boa sts boa rdwa ful l o f t hr illin g r ide s as w e l l as f as c i n at i n g m u seums. N ot to f orget the gl i tzy casi no r e so r ts in A tlan t i c Ci t y .
Th i s ro ute w ill b r in g y o u m an y f an t as t i c s i gh t s . P l us i t i s a rea l a ttra cti on f o trav el l in g , sto p p in g o f f f o r an ar r ay o f d e l i c i o u s f ood cui si n es on hun dreds of th ei r ro a dsid e sto p s a n d r e s t au r an t s , as w e l l as wa tchi n g the shri mp boa ts pul l on t h e s tu n n in g do c k s an d u n l o ad t h e i r d ay ’ s c atch, or si mpl y goi n g of f the tr a bi t an d c ha ttin g to t h e f r i e n d l y l o c al s .
Am eri c a is a la n d o f e x c i t e m e n t j u s t w ai t i n g t o b e tra v el l ed by you. W i th such em bracin g d ive r sity, h e r i t age , c u l t u r e an d a p o s i ti v e f uture, n o won der ea ch on e th ese o pp o r tu n itie s is l ab e l l e d as t h e gr e at Am e r i ca n roa d tri p.
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Ro u t e 6 6
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Ro u t e 6 6
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o y o u w an t t o e x p e r i e n c e t h e rea l Ameri ca ? How ab o u t b e i n g a p ar t o f t h e ama zi ng cul ture a n d di v e r s i t y i n t h e ‘ l an d o f d r e ams’? D o you wa n t to be i n a p l ac e w h e r e t h e p e o p l e are wel comi ng a nd ma k e y o u f e e l as f r e e as t h e b i r d s on the open roa d? Then Ro u t e 6 6 i s f o r y o u .
R o u te 6 6 , al s o k n o w n as t h e m o t h e r r oa d, i s the l on gest roa d in A m e r ic a. T h e s c e n i c r o u t e e m b r ac e s the wonderf ul a nd di ve r se c u ltur e an d h e r i t age o f Am e r i c a, whi ch i s why i t i s the m o st p o p u l ar r o u t e i n t h e l an d w h e r e d rea ms ca n become rea l ity. The st o r y o f Am e r i c a r e v e al s i t s e lf on the open roa d a s i t str e tc he s th r o u g: I l l i n o i s , M i s s o u r i , K a nsa s, Ok l a homa , Texa s, Ne w Me x ico , Ar i z o n a an d Cal i f o r n i a. The route i s a f a n ta sti c w a y to e x pe r i e n c e f r e e d o m i n Am e r i c a’ s di v erse a nd exci ti ng c u ltu r e , you m i gh t e v e n l e ar n a t h i n g or two a l ong the wa y.
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t ’s a jo u r n e y fille d w i t h c l as s i c d i n e r s , d r i v e - i n thea tres a nd the odd roa d-si d at t ra c tio n s tha t you w o n ’ t f i n d an y w h e r e e l s e. The f un a n d rel a xi ng a tmosp her e a n d u n iq u e d e s i gn o f Wi gw am V i l l age M otel #6 i n Ari zona i s a n expe ence i n itse lf. C o m p l e t e w i t h a m u s e u m o f m e mora bi l i a you wi l l be a bl e to see w hat the fa m o u s R o u t e 6 6 w as l i k e b ac k i n i t s da y. And yes, the hotel i s a ct al l y s ha p e d lik e a W i gw am !
Mo st o f u s thr o w a w a y o r r e c y c l e u s e d gl as s b o t t l es, ev en the col ourf ul on es, ri g Ho w ever , Elm e r L o n g c am e u p w i t h a m u c h b e t t e r i dea . He deci ded to use spa ce o hi s p ro pe r ty in H e le n d al e ( O r o G r an d e ) t o b u i l d a bottl e tree ra nch. Thi s i s a re al l y co l ou r fu l fo r m o f ar t an d a p o p u l ar at t r ac t i on. Or you ca n see the col ourf u and l arge hit a ttr a c tion t h at i s t h e C ad i l l ac Ran ch, i n Texa s, wi th stretches of C di l l acs co ve r e d in fu n k y gr af f i t i r i s i n g m aj e s t i c a l l y out of the groun d i n a cool p i ece o f m o d e r n a r t. T h e r e ar e p l e n t y m o r e h i t at t ra cti on s f or you to experi en ce t h ro ugho u t the w ho le co m p e l l i n g j o u r n e y .
Al o ng t he o p e n sc e n ic r o u t e y o u ’ l l f i n d s i gn s t h at i l l ustra te the l egenda ry hi sto o f Ro ut e 6 6 a n d fr ie n d l y f o l k s w i t h s t o r i e s t h at are a l l too ea ger to sha re. R out 66 i s Am e r ic a a t its pu r e s t , an d an e x p e r i e n c e y o u throw yoursel f i nto, come out and w ant to do a g a in . C e l e b r i t i e s v i s i t i t j u s t f o r f un a n d i t’s the on l y route i n t h e wo rld tha t ha s ha d l e ge n d ar y s o n gs w r i t t e n about i t.
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S p r i n g B r e ak
Spring Break T History of Spring Break
e stuSince the 1800s, American colleg break dents have celebrated they’re d the from college and have welcome lcome warm weather of spring; a we back change from the cold weather on was home. The most popular locati autiful Fort Lauderdale, where the be dents. seaside was a paradise for stu getting Spring Break didn’t really start tion it the renowned worldwide reputa nks to currently has until the 1960s, tha s such the invention of new technologie ed colas stereos and cars. This allow country lege students from all over the ations, to get themselves to party loc ir hair especially beaches, and let the down.
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S p r i n g B r e ak
ake fre she r ’s w e e k , ad d e v e r y E u r o p e an c l u b b i n g dest i nat i on fr o m A yia N ap a t o M agal u f , t i m e s t h at experi enc e b y te n a n d y o u ’ l l p r o b ab l y h av e s o m e t h i ng t hat rese m b le s Sp r in g B r e ak . T h e an n u al f e s t i va l , wh i ch t a k e s p la c e in t h e U n i t e d S t at e s e ac h E as ter, i s a chanc e fo r stu de n ts t o h av e s o m e w e l l d e s e r v e d f un .
What makes sp ring break special?
Be part of a festival with a unique story The fact that and vibe. it happens in many locatio easy for you ns makes it to join in the festivities, cho that best suit osing one s you. Not only that, yo amazing new u can meet people and get involved that you wou in activities ldn’t normally have the op experience. S portunity to pring Break o ffers cheap a thrills, with like-m nd cheerful inded people , in world-fam tions. ous loca-
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S p r i n g B r e ak
Getting in & Getting Out Tour operators provide travel packages specially Spring Break, which will fix your travel there and back as well as accommodation. With plenty available, it’s guaranteed you’ll find one to suit you. They offer a variety of locations to meet your taste as well as your budget. Every tour operator specialises in student travel so they’ll have everything you want wrapped up in a fantastic package; from local travel destinations to hotels filled with likeminded students. Check out the packages section as well as various party destinations here. You’ll be pleased to know that flight companies often reduce prices around the time of spring break but this doesn’t mean their quality goes down with the prices. Aim to catch a flight that will get you to your destination in morning so you can easily get to your hotel and make the most of your day. After all, you want to spend your money and time on having a fantastic time. Have a look at Student City for good rates. Spring Break lasts for one week and takes place from February to the middle of April. Although Spring Break happens all over America, some of the best locations are Cancun, New Orleans, Daytona Beach and Lake Havasu.
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Cancun has a reputation of be ing the best place for Spring Bre ak, simply because it’s the perfect place to enjoy the sun and world fam ous nightlife. Cancun is also the perfect sta rting point to release your inner adventurer, as you explore tropical reefs, jun gles and archaeological sites of the old Mayan world. From the moment you get into Cancun’s Spring Bre ak you’ll be welcomed with tasty drinks an d a warm and vibrant atmosphere . Take a cruise on the party boat to Isla Mujeres for the wildest night of yo ur holiday. You can also enjoy the deliciou s food and entertaining shows before you dance the night away with fantas tic music. If you’re looking for an alternati ve from the beach, then New Or leans is the place to be. They have everythi ng you want for a memorable, ad venturous and exciting time you’ll never for get! You’ll party into the early ho urs with the fantastic range of live music on offer in many of the city’s bars and clubs. Quench your thirst and eat some flavourful food for a cheap price , before you experience the amazing sig hts of New Orleans’ culture, he ritage and art. Florida’s Daytona Beach is known for its wide array of activities, wh ich each year features about a half a do zen concerts at the Bandshell an d in local bars. On the other hand, you can indulge in daytime activitie s like giveaways and contests organised by corporate sponsors. To fully experience the Spring Break nightlife we rec ommend you pick up a “Gold Pa rty Card”, which guaranties your express en try to all the best party venues, including the sensational Aqua Lounge, Ra zzles, Ocean Deck and the Oy ster Pub.
S p r i n g B r e ak
to the water at ke ta nd a ls a nt Re ch ridge at at Windsor Bea o b a nt re t connected by a b no is h hy c hi W w , ity C su zsu. Lake Hava because of its buz rs e o -g rty Arizona’s Lake Hava a p r fo e a popular plac g to the lake, the rin b rs e o -g rty to the Island, is also a p electric atmosphere everything else nd a rts o sp r te ing vibe. With the a w g e best adrenaline pumpin has been voted th su va unusual destination, a H ke La r e s, it’s no wond Spring Break boast in the West. new friends and ke a m s, rie o m e m me u can ra filled with aweso xperience is one yo e k a Bring back a came re B g rin Sp e n activities. Th get involved with fu o it all over again. d to nt a w nd a ut come o throw yourself into, iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 129
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Camping In Am T
he se a r e the b e s t y e ar s o f y o u r l i f e s o gi v e your summer tha t ‘u m p h’ it n ee d s b y v o l u n t e e r i n g at S u mmer C a mps i n the l a nd o f o p p o r tu ni t y , w h e r e an y t h i n g c an b e a chi ev ed - Ameri ca . This is a fa n t as t i c an d s at i s f y i n g w ay to ma k e a huge posi ti v e d iffe r e n c e t o a w o n d e r f u l r an ge o f c o m mun i ti es. These a ma zin g a n d high l y r e w ar d i n g p o s s i b i l i t i e s combi ne v ol unteeri ng w ith c a m p in g an d t ak e t h e m t o a w h o l e n ew exci ti n g l ev el .
o g ia D n a S , k r a P ia La Colon young Each year, Kids Korps offers ough people an opportunity to work thr camps. a series of week-long volunteer learn Volunteers get the chance to needs, about a selected community ject then participate in a service pro ns that with local non-profit organisatio differaddress these needs. Make a ntoring ence to children’s lives by me h like to younger children and work wit minded people. experiDuring your time off you can tourist ence the fantastic scenery and San attractions like San Diago Zoo. e skies Diago is a place where blu coastreach over 70 miles of majestic friendly line, a gentle warm climate and phere locals in a diverse vibrant atmos e. create a unique welcoming vib
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C am p i n g i n Am e r i c a
merica Green Camp
Take care o f the world y ou live in by healthier pla making it a ce at Green Camp, with Along with a Kids Korp. n intr nity issue subje oduction to a variety of commucts including a nimals, food a you will get a nd shelter, hands on exp erience on a environmenta variety of l issues. Lea rn how to sav a hero to an e water, be imals as you restore and p natural habita reserve their ts. Discover the amazing of recycling th techniques at take one used materia into another. l and turn it For instance how aluminium used to build cans be an a from the sun to eroplane and how to take energy power electric ity in homes. fantastic opp This is a ortunity to ge t closer to na perience the ture and exbeauty of yo ur world and more spectac make it even ular.
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C am p i n g i n Am e r i c a
Behind Scenes
If your thinking of mo ity, tourism or just w camps, Camp Ame and rewarding op the industry whilst to good use and land of dreams. opportunities to scenes a
In the gorgeous Am a grounds keeper course, join a frien housekeeper or w world of cooking. go for, you’ll be ab skills, make new frien great m
Camp America Sports Jobs Got a big passion for wild sports like: waterskiing, kayaking and windsurfing? Or do you love to play regular sports such as tennis, golf, football and fencing? Camp America’s summer camps give an exciting opportunity to share your knowledge and passion of the sport you love. Even if you have a basic knowledge of the sport, you’ll have the time of your life as youngsters look to you for guidance and coaching. Training will be given at the camps and you will receive a warm and friendly welcome with a cosy place to sleep at night.
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C am p i n g i n Am e r i c a
d The s Staff
oving into hospitalwant to volunteer in erica give fantastic pportunities to test t putting your skills travel America-the There are always o work behind the at camps.
merican weather, be of a beautiful golf ndly family as their work in the exciting Whichever job you ble to improve your nds and make some memories.
Private Residential Camps Do you want to experience a camp with true American style? Volunteer at a privately owned camp to work with children who are eager to learn and have fun from high/ middle class families. These camps are highly enjoyable and relaxing as you can play games or teach the kids something new. Take in the scenery by exploring the wonders the natural woodlands have to boast. The secure cabins and platform tents are lavishly equipped to make you feel at home whilst emphasising the back-to-nature element of camping. Each trip lasts from several weeks to several months and it’s so simple to get your visa sorted. Whichever camp and job your heart takes you to, you are guaranteed to have the time of your life, bring back a camera filled with memories and feel extremely satisfied knowing you’ve made yours and another person’s life better.
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At l an t i c An t i c
T
he 38th annual Atlantic Antic stree September in Brooklyn.
The free festival is New York’s large encompasses an eclectic array of entertainment.
This family-friendly fair runs along Atlantic Av neighbourhoods, which will be closed to m craftspeople and food vendors. The live music stage will feature performanc to classical and abundant number of food the world.
One block will be reserved for child-friendl bouncy castles and story-telling so there’s
Following the Labor Day Carnival, it is Broo brings together thousands of people to ba lished New York tradition. It is a brilliant wa tures and activities but people are advise
This year the event will fall on 30th Septem through rain or shine. It is estimated this yea ing one million visitors from New York and b
For more information, visit the Atlantic Ave w
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At l an t i c An t i c
et festival is held on the last weekend of
est and most diverse street event that live music, food stalls, arts and crafts and
venue, for about a mile and spans four make way for over 500 artists, musicians,
ces from various genres ranging from rock d stalls will offer delicacies from all around
ly activities like pony rides, face painting, something for everyone.
oklyn’s second-largest gathering that ask in the celebrations of this long estabay to experience an eclectic mix of culed to be wary of pick-pocketing.
mber starting at noon and finishing at 6pm ar’s Atlantic Antic will attract an astonishbeyond.
website.
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H a ll o w e e n H o l i d ay : S al e m M as sa chussetts
Halloween Holiday
Salem Massac
As big as r. a e y e h t t event of s e g are one ig u b o y e If h . t s is a m n tfit, allowee as Christ y dress ou c For some, H and as anticipated n fa e h t ay, o don tching a w rk a d your birthd le that cannot wait t e ven sit in th p to Hallowop e e r p o e s s o ie h rt t a of the build u destinaalloween p In H . u e o h t y r o t fo head this one is een Horror n w e o ll h t a s H ie w v a ne tts. Enjoy! u e o s y u horror mo h g c in a g s s n l be bri Salem, Ma h it w g een, we wil in rt week – sta tion each
s t t e s u h em, Massac
#1 Sal
ting and n u h h c it w r y of horrific lone is the main o t is h s it r famous fo 92. This a 6 1 o lloween. t a k H c Salem is in a g n b ri e u t d which da k to Salem c o fl le p witch trials o o many pe s y h w n o s uritans) setP rea s a n w o ns (then kn of the community ia t s ri h C s u members go, religio a in s a rt e ri outcast e u c t y ll n d a e e ic C t im c la ra c m. They ho were p lso didn’t a It tled in Sale r homeless women w . s g in o oo d evil misd e ic t ritans saw c u P ra – usually p s p a – h y rc a u ty anyw cused ’t go to ch c n a id re d e from socie d w e s le hose accu ore than 200 peop iously known t t a h t lp e h s a result, m icing witchcraft (prev A . in s a hanging s t g c in ra e this a p b d o t n itches a subjected re e d or burnt w e n d of being w n w a ro , ) d ic n g re ofte il ’s ma as the dev as it that ‘witches’ we re human or not. dh y we while legen t to see whether the as a tes
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H a llo w e e n H o l i d ay : S al e m M as s ac h ussetts
chussetts e the strange Take a trip to the Salem Witch Museum to reliv tions had on yet spooky past of Salem and see what implica sentation illustratthe town following the witch epidemic. A pre Witch Dungeon ing the town’s history is shown every hour. The worth paying a Museum and Witch History Museum are also visit. ghost tour which, Walk the candle-lit Witch Trial Trail or take a here of the enwithout a doubt, will add to the chilling atmosp tire Halloween experience. raft Expo which There is a free annual Psychic Fair and Witchc to have a takes place in October. Here you may choose even make tarot card reading, speak to a spirit guide and your own magic wand like Harry Potter. the Vampire’s Salem is host to several Halloween events like the Official Salem Ball and Halloween Costume Ball, as well as tober this year Witches’ Halloween Ball which will be on 26 Oc e hotel. in the grand ballroom of the historic Hawthorn ious bizarre souIt is worth mentioning that you will discover var lloween but down venirs whilst visiting Salem not because it’s Ha onventional to the fact that Salem was traditionally an unc . town and has ever since retained that feature
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As p e n
Aspen
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As p e n
S
ituated in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, the Aspen Ski resort is one of four mountain ski resort areas, the other three being Snowmass, Buttermilk and Highland. Each of the four mountains have their own ski ability level and appeal so there is something to meet everyone’s needs. This is one of the most glamorous and celebrity filled ski resorts so don’t be surprised if you see the likes of famous singers or sports stars. At first thought people may think this resort caters to the rich and famous however it caters to inexpensive budgets and has a lot to offer. The town’s Victorian streets feature designer boutiques, top quality restaurants and exclusive art galleries.
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S e e Al as k a
See Alaska
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S e e Al as k a
B
eing the largest state of the USA and at the northern edge of the Pacific Ocean, Alaska is a vast populated land that boasts breath-taking natural beauty, diverse wildlife and is every adventure-seeking and snow lover’s paradise. iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 141
S e e Al as k a
Useful Things To Know
A
laska has very unpredictable weather, even worse than Britain. In the summer season one day you could find yourself basking in the warm sunshine with hot temperatures whereas the next day there could be torrential rainfall with strong winds so be prepared and take appropriate clothing. Be sure to take strong insect repellent as the Alaskan mosquitoes can be fierce especially during the summer so wear neutral clothes and avoid using strong perfume or deodorant. Haggling is accepted in some Alaskan shops so take for example a souvenir – which you’d like to take home as a memento of your trip – seems too expensive don’t be afraid to barter down the price.
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S e e Al as k a
A
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Be a B r ai n b o x at H ar v ar d U n i v ersi ty
Be A Brainbox At H Harvard is the oldest University in America. So with that in mind, achieving a degree, even attending the University that educated Barack Obama, Natalie Portman and Bill Gates (to name a few) is a remarkable honour. Established in 1636 by British benefactor John Harvard, it has always been known as the best university to study law, medicine and business dedicating separate schools to these courses. Harvard is also associated with SAO (Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory), the world’s largest research centre for studying the universe. The potential oozes for those who attend Harvard. With inventions such as the Polaroid camera and Facebook created within the rooms of the university, the possibilities are endless. Despite this, Harvard has received some criticism for relying too heavily on teaching assistants, accepting students with flawed grades whilst others go to great lengths to attend this Ivy League university by taking up fencing even though they have no interest in the sport and prepping for acceptance from the age of 10.
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It’s clearly tough to get educated at Harvard but once there, the extra-curricular activities offered to students are vast. Sport at Harvard is famous for having a permanent rivalry with Yale University during ice hockey, American football and squash, causing intense competition at these games. There are plenty of societies such as poetry, dance, science and sororities to chooses from to make the most of your singing or scientific ability.
B e a B r ai n b o x at H ar v ar d U n i v e rsi ty
Harvard University
The application process begins with and interview, you will at first be contacted by an interviewer and depending on where you live; one may not initially be available. However this doesn’t affect your candidacy. You are required to sit the SAT’s and only when you score 2200 or above, will you be offered a place. Fees are high for Harvard but international students receive the same aid as those from the U.S.
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Can ad a
a d a n Ca We think you’re going to love Canada. It is home to some of the most amazing architecture, culture and sport and we want to share our love for it with youyou’re welcome. Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa and Quebec are some of the most famous cities of the country and it’s easy to see why. Canadians love it so much, they never want to leave so go ahead and join them in the second largest country in the world. The country has the best of everything; the French for the food and fashion, the Americans for climate and nature and Britain for monarchy and government. Make friends with a grizzly bear, stay in log cabin in the woods and become a fan of the Canadian sport, ice-hockey, it’s all up for grabs in Canada.
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Can ad a
Toronto r giving us Drake fo d e n w o n re is ity The c you want to thank if so r e b ie B in st Ju and the trendy city t si vi ; lly a n o rs e p them t pandas, enjoy n ia g t e e m ’ll u yo where on a glass floor d n a st d n a l a e m y a tast ground. 2,000 ft above the Toronto Zoo to over 5,000 e m o h is o o Z to Toron ragons to snow d o d o m ko m fro , ls anima ears. The zoo b y zl riz g to s rd a leop t rides, exhibits, n re e iff d r u fo s re featu eet the keeper’ ‘m s ld o h d n a s p o gift sh ssions daily with se g in d e fe d n a g talkin are for animals c o h w rs e p e ke those uins, giraffes and g n e p n a c fri A s a such any others). A m st g n o m (a s n ta -u orang ilable to those va a o ls a is k’ e Tr ra ‘Tund global warming ts c ffe e e th in d e st intere who are due to ls a im n a n o g n vi is ha near future; cuse th in t c in xt e e m beco ears, snowy owls b r la o p e se n a c rs tome the zoo awaiting ith W . rs e e d in re and ndas early next a p t n ia g f o l va rri the a miss a visit to to t n a w ’t n o w u yo year, Toronto Zoo.
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Can ad a CN Tower It is the 5th tallest free-standing str ucture in the world so we highly recomm end a visit to CN Tower, even if you jus t take a picture; crane your neck now. Almost 2,000 ft, the tower that is ultim ately a TV and radio platform, can be seen from any point in the city. Once you’re high above the ground, if you’re brave enough stand on the glass floor at the top of the tower inhale the brea thtaking view beyond you. For those of you who are hardcore enough expe rience a hands free Edge Walk, an d push your limits to the test. Once it all gets too much, enjoy a relaxing meal in the bistro floors below.
Hot Chocolate & Ballet The city is home to Canada’s largest ballet troupe; the National Ballet of Canada so you know it’s going to feature some of the best pointy toes you’ve ever seen. From Alice in Wonderland, the Nutcracker and Romeo and Juliet ballets, there’s something for everyone. But don’t forget about the hot chocolate! Canada is famous for its mouth watering hot chocolates and Toronto is no exception. Our favourite place to head for a pick-me-up is Bobbette & Belle. They make their signature hot chocolate with full-fat milk and home-made marshmallows that are blowtorched and float lightly atop your warm hot chocolate. A vibrant and exhilarating city, Toronto symbolises everything great about Canada. Don’t hesitate to book a break to the thrilling Toronto - it’ll be your best holiday yet.
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Ottawa l architecu tif u a e b d n a ry to For rich his to head to ity c r e th o o n is ture there Gallery of l a n tio a N e h T . a but Ottaw ian War Mud a n a C e th d n a Canada dive head so ity c e th in p u seum hold history in Ottawa. ’s a d a n a C to in st fir ry of Canada The National Galle building, the ss la g a in d se u o H variety of a s ld o h ry lle a G National graphs and to o h p s, re tu lp u sc paintings, con pieces a B is c n a Fr m o Fr drawings. drawings, o ss a ic P d n a t d n to Rembra Gallery do e th t a g in th ry ve e you ’ll see e gallery is h T ! ra e m a c r u yo t don’t forge ns so whato iti ib xh e g in ld o h constantly bound to ’re u yo , p u rn tu u ever day yo r get lost ve e u yo If . w e n g in see someth t out Louise n u h y, lle a g e th d tr ying to fin re of a gitu lp u sc a ’n a m a ‘M Boureois’s t entrance n fro e th t a ts si t a th ant spider val. waiting for your arri
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Can ad a Canadian War Museum We understand the history of wa r isn’t always interesting to you lot, bu t with Remembrance Day around the corner, the Canadian War Museum is holding special tribute exhibitions that are not to be missed. With restaurants, tours, libraries and theatres, the museum has to be one the biggest (and best) . It features information and items from all the wars, Canadian soldiers have fought in and with a tour costing only $3 it’s cheap to, with all proceeds made within the museum going towards nu merous war charities.
The Rideau Canal The canal connects the city of Ottawa to the city of Ontario; it’s a remarkable stretch of water. In winter, a section of the canal becomes the world ’s largest staking rink, so the only thing we can suggest is grab some skates and hop on! It has the equivalent surface area of 90 Olympic ice hockey rinks and is a big tourist attraction in the winter. Rideau Canal is so popular; it has a festival named after it. Taking place in August, it focuses on the heritage of the canal and celebrates with tours of Rideau, music and bike tours. Our condensed version of the city shows the best of the best but to really discover this beautiful city you need to be there. It hides tons of hidden treasures for the avid Canadian fan.
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Vancouver VancouIn 2008, 260 films were shot in ed ‘Holver and it is frequently nicknam in mind, let lywood North’. So with that ver. We us talk to you about Vancou ants, ravcan throw all the fancy restaur rks at you ing nightclubs and tranquil pa a visit to but at the end of the day, u seeing Vancouver could result in yo don-Levitt or even meeting Joseph Gor n’t put a or Morgan Freeman. You ca price on that. Film sets oduction A major film and television pr a popucentre, Vancouver has been ly a cenlar film-making choice for near g Came tury. Famous films such as Alon ht at the a Spider, Catwoman, Nig DestinaMuseum and all of the Final ncouver. tion films have been shot in Va ty also inRecent films to feature the ci e Woods clude 2012, The Cabin in th t it bluntly; and Charlie St. Cloud. To pu sets and if you stand outside the film uld see production buildings you co lf naked Zac Efron walking around ha d guys in or Halle Berry fighting the ba skin-tight leather.
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Can ad a Stanley Park Despite us demanding you to visit the film sets, we do also recommend a rest from the excitement. We think 1,000 acres of Stanley Park is the idea l location for a ‘rest’. It offers unique views from its rainforests marshland and beaches but best of all, the wa terfront views along a seawall. To appr eciate ever ything Stanley Park has to of fer, rent a bike, go roller skating, have a picnic, go for a hike or take on your pa ls for a round of golf. It’s the park to be for the adventurous explorer.
Shopping! Don’t forget about shopping, Vancouver holds some of the best shops in the whole of Canada. Head to South Main for a trendy shopping experience, where you can pick up vinyl’s at Red Cat Records, designer clothes as Smoking Lily and eclectic art at The Jem Gallery. South Main has a hip mix of restaurants, bars, and food carts and clothes shops so there’s no need dress up, your ‘Hard Rock Cafe’ tee will be fine. If one shopping neighbourhood isn’t enough then head to Robson Street for flagship shops such as Hermes, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co and for a Starbucks on every corner. Vancouver oozes glamour! From celebrities to shopping hot spots and classy restaurants and bars, look no further than the city that is as much fun, as it is inspirational.
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Quebec ian provQuebec is the only Canad Frenchince with a predominantly only one speaking population and the is French whose sole official language home to at the provincial level. It is also e-Beauthe Basilica of Sainte-Anne-d go above pre but the city ’s attractions tractions and beyond the religious at ld nightlife. with its stunning nature and wi aupre
Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Be
bec with If you ever find yourself in Que n’t head a broken limb or an illness, do the Bato the hospital, take a taxi to g miracles silica. It’s credited for makin the buildand curing the sick. One of in 1658, ers, who worked on Saint Anne broken was miraculously cured of his , crutches leg and since then braces e the baand canes are all left insid t to need silica after people claim no Ok, so we them anymore after leaving. erested in understand if you’re not int , but the visiting for the healing reason d out so building is beautiful both in an to take a maybe it’ll take your fancy st buildlook at one of Quebec’s olde ings.
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Can ad a Parc de la Chute-Montmorency Located just a few minutes the cit y between the river and cliffs lays Pa rc de la Chute-Montmorency; gushing waterfalls at an awe-inspiring 83 metres. Once it gets dark by the falls, the park lights up, and is illuminated, giv ing it a captivating feel and atmosphe re, perfect all year round, day and nig ht. We recommend you attempt to ice climb the falls during winter, its good fun and an un-missable experience.
Food & Fun Quebec is famous for hits high calorie, high fat food so don’t over indulge! With a strong French and Irish influence, Quebec’s famous tourtiere- a meat pie featuring stuffing, pork, beef, veal or fish traditionally- and poutine- French fries topped with gravy and curd cheeseare our recommendations. Top it off with a Canadian beer and head on out to nightclubs Chez Dagobert, Maurice and Pub Saint-Patrick for a memorable night out. Quebec is everything except missable. Gorgeous views, stunning locations and amazing architecture await you in this popular Canadian city.
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Whistler
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D
ecades ago the two Whistler and Blackcomb towering mountains were home to adventurous hikers but nowadays they offer excellent skiing opportunities to thrill-seeking skiers. It rises in the ranks as being the ‘Best Ski Resort in the World’ after continuously being voted the ‘Best North American Ski Resort’. With over 8,000 acres and annual snow-fall of over 30 feet these conditions make for perfect skiing weather. Six huge high-alpine powder bowls, one of which is called Doom & Gloom, plus tree runs, cliffs, glaciers and chutes make this resort just the thing for thrill-seekers and advances skiers. Though ski lessons are available for beginners taking their first step in the ski world. There is a large vertical drop and the Whistler’s village provides all the amenities skiers and snowboarders need packed with cafes, stores and numerous restaurants specialising in different cuisines to suit everyone’s needs.
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l i z a r B B r az i l
B
razil is the largest country on the South American continent and the fifth largest in the world. Home to a diverse population, Brazil is a tourist’s dream with so many things to do and places to see.
Rio de Janeiro
Rio used to be the former capital of Brazil before Brasilia. You can pull out the swimming trunks and sun block as it’s is full of beautiful beaches and palm trees that capture the imagination of what the city has to offer. And if that isn’t enough, why not visit some of the landmark monuments the city has to offer; the Christ the Redeemer statue which stands as a tall as skyscraper building overlooking the city as a whole. Staying in Rio, it would be sacrilege to not travel to the home of Brazil’s national football stadium. The Maracana is steeped in historical tradition. Opening in 1950 the football stadium was designed not only as a home for the national team but to attract tourists from around the world. It once housed 199,854 people for a match between Brazil and Paraguay in 1954, a record that still stands today. It will once again be playing host to the greatest sports final in the world in 2014 when the football World Cup returns to one of its spiritual homes.
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B r az i l
Sao Paulo Whilst Sao Paulo doesn’t have the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, what it does have is a vibrant city life. The wealth on offer attracted immigrants from an array of countries such as Germany, Italy and even Japan. Famed for their multiculturalism, why not take advantage of the world class restaurants on display and fill your bellies with mouth-watering food. If your fancy hasn’t been tickled enough perhaps foraying into some clubs and unleashing your samba dance manoeuvres may be required due to Sao Paulo’s nightlife constantly buzzing, just don’t forget to take bottles of water with you as you may work up quite a sweat.
Iguacu Falls As one of the greatest natural wonders of the world, the opportunity to travel to Brazil and see the Iguacu Falls would leave you in awe. Situated near the borders of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay the Iguacu Falls has been placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Access to it would be done through the Brazilian city of Foz do Iguacu, which has an airport and hotels nearby. Despite safety standards being very reasonable diving at the edge of the cliff is strictly not recommended!
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B r az i l
Amazon Rainforest The Amazon is the largest rainforest in the world and half of it resides within Brazil’s borders. Visiting the Amazon would certainly have you on high alert as predators would be on display such as Cougars and Jaguars, though they often come out at night for hunting purposes. Anacondas and Piranhas are just some of the deadly predators swimming in the river, so perhaps skinny-dipping is out of the question. But overall the canopies and greenery really add to the natural experience when seeing the Amazon and remains one of the star attractions of Brazil.
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B r az i l
Brazil is a wonderful country to travel to. Tourist destinations have a largely natural feel to them be it the Amazon rainforest or Iguacu Falls. The beaches of Rio de Janeiro will add to the relaxing theme that you will want to be apart of but this is completely contrasted by the allure of Sao Paulo. If you want to sink some cocktails, do the tango and explore the lavish restaurants of this electrifying city, be fully prepared for fun.
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Mexico
o c i Mex M
te laying between exico is a North American sta and Guatemala to the United States of America pular food, archaepo s ha o xic Me t. as -e uth so the rm weather and six ology and pyramids, lovely wa cording to popular thousand miles of shoreline. Ac d Nations, Mexico is polls carried out by the Unite list of popular destinations for ranked seventh on the current tourists to visit.
rts Cancun and Acapulco Beach Reso to of all types. Students looking le op pe to als pe ap o xic Me rs who love coming to Mexne oo ym ne ho d an ies mil fa party, h resorts. Americans will ac be e ios nd gra its of e us ico beca ts that is home to modern resor occupy the Baja Peninsula Vallarta. They have become o ert Pu d an un nc Ca as ch su where college students flock k� ea br g rin “Sp h wit s ou ym synon g their trunks out, drinking ttin ge e hin ns su h lus in es ov in their dr g ing the stress of an endurin and partying wildly unburden semester. uthern parts of Mexico so the s rd wa to in s ea ar t or Smaller res taste and far more family orien are slightly more eloquent in d is a prime example of this an en rm Ca l de ya Pla e Th d. te ta fishing trips, deep sea dives ng eri off ts or res d fin en oft l you wil nature. Acapulco is a s thi of s itie en am d an c cifi into the Pa ncun for a more mature crowd watered down version of Ca ht life but without endless de nig the joy en to k loo l wil o wh rrounds students in Cancun. su t tha s es zin cra d an ry he bauc
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Mexico
Mexico City
For history buffs , the capital o ffers you museu and colonial a ms, Aztec ruins rchitecture. The y form a triumvira for tourists to e te of richness xplore particula rly for youngste hear about ep rs who love to ic wars and a w arrior culture, wh race came to p ich the Aztec ersonify. Mexico is awash with Spanish influ ence in the form that belonged s of palaces to former Dons in the 16th and when Mexico w 17th century as a former co lony of Spain’s. Itza” is perhaps The “Chichen the most infamo us of the archae worth paying a ological sites visit to. Known a s the “Majestic was a declared Mayan City,” it a World Heritag e Site by UNES and voted one CO in 1988 of the Seven W onders of the W orld. There are plen ty of parks for families to spen and enjoy picn d the ics as the weath er in generally so day out round. A day o und all year ut in highland st ate of Michoac kids feeling ho án could lure mesick out of th eir hotels to w cinating site of itness the fasMonarch Butte rfly Breeding. M terflies come to illions of butthe area betwe en November a create one of n nd March to ature’s great sp ectacles.
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Mexico
Copper Canyon er e? Why not travel to Copp tur en dv i-a min a for ing ok Lo Mexico in complete starkof rt pa a e nc rie pe ex d an Canyon gical sites that Mexico olo ae ch ar d an s he ac be ness to the l with a ride on the rail, which wil has to offer. You can start off feet where you will overlook the d an us tho ht eig er ov u yo ke ta you’re still in a daring mood If o. xic Me of rt se De ua ah Chihu us rough terrain, horseino ta un mo the up ing hik s ay there’s alw d original habitants of the lan back riding and meeting the t. n for their spiritual enlightenmen ow kn s ian Ind ra ma hu ra Ta the
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Mexico Guadalajara warm weather, Suppose you want a bit of everything. Some Guadalajara is beautiful scener y, a moderate nightlife then springtime the the place for tourists to travel to. During the being played traditional city comes to life with mariachi music ialising, so why in between shots of tequila and the locals soc not be apart of the fun? ch resorts will Mexico will have you pining to stay! The bea serenity to famihave student ’s wilding out, Mexico City offers ws you to really lies looking to relax and Copper Canyon allo ure. But if you let your hair down and enjoy an exciting advent and head of to want a bit of everything pack your suitcases uila shots. Guadalajara for some mariachi music and teq
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H o w t o e n j o y T e q u i l a i n M exi co
How to enjoy Teq
T
he r e ’s m o r e to t e q u i l a t h an t h e l i m e an d sa l t, poundin g sho t a fter s h o t an d e n d i n g o n a d r e a df ul ha ngo ve r . It’s a c t u al l y a w e l l - l o v e d s p i r i t an d ca n be e n jo ye d in m an y d i f f e r e n t w ay s . T h e M exi ca ns put it in e ve r ythi n g - d r i n k s , f o o d an d e v e n use i t to ‘c u r e ’ illn e ss. I t ’ s a u n i q u e s y m b o l o f t h ei r cul ture. So stic k o n a s o m b r e r o , a p o n c h o an d s o me wi n k l e pi c k e r s a n d he a d d o w n t o t h e n e ar e s t M e x i c an ba r.
Ar iba!
o c i x e M & a l i u q Te
g bond n o r t s a s d l o h to this day d n a a l i u q e t can only be o t a l e i u m q o e h t s t i a o h c t i Mex aws declare l ; k n i try has r n d u c o i c l o e h h o t c l d a n e a h with t t e o f Ja l i s c o a t s eaning n a m c i ’, x a e l i M u e q h e t ‘t n i d r produced ts to the wo h g i r l a n o i t a n ter of alcohol. e l t t o b a e claimed the in m a use it to n n a c y r t n u o c r no othe h typic i h w ) d e r u t c i ave plant (p g a e u l b a he root and m t o r f m o e r d f a p m u s g i u a d l Tequi eapple once n i p t na (pinen i a p i e g h a t e s k n i r l u s t k h o cally lo e oven whic h t n i and fid e d e k d o o d e c r h n e s h r t o s i d c u t u p . It then mashe s i d g ten n a i k y r a a m g o u t s n i d n s a e ard work go apple) brown H . a l i u q e en who t e m k e a h t m d o t n a d e s l s l e i c t nally dis manual pro a y l l a n o i t i ant which d l a p r e t h l t l i t t u s o b ’s a t i e ; quila ed knowledg r c a s e v a h e v a eneration. g o t n o i t harvest the ag a r e n e on age: own from g g d n i d e d s n s e a p p e d n e a e l i b has pes of tequ y t t n e different r e n f i f i d e d y e e jo r n h e t e h r c a There e jo ’, w i t h e a n ‘A d n a ’ o d a s bviously. o , ‘B l a n c o ’, ‘R e p o n w o r i e h t n well as o cocktails – as
166 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
H ow t o e n j o y T e q u i l a i n M e x i co
quila in Mexico
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 167
H o w t o e n j o y T e q u i l a i n M exi co
Blanco Bl anco te q u ila ( a lso k n o w n as ‘ s i l v e r ’ ) i s c l e ar a nd bottl ed a s so o n i ts d istille d, me an i n g i t ’ s age d i n o ak f o r l ess tha n two mo nt h s. The B la n c o t as t e i s h ar s h e r t h an o t h e r types of tequi l a ; i t ’s w he r e the a g a ve i s at i t s s t r o n ge s t an d i s t he ba se f or other t equi la s. Typ ic a lly , B l an c o t as t e s t h e b e s t w i t h mi xers i n cock t ai l s; m a r g a r ita s, teq u i l a s u n r i s e s an d B l o o d y Ma ri a s (a Bl oody Mary bu t the vo dk a i s r e p l ac e d w i t h t e q u i l a) . Bl a nco compl i ment s a n y fr u it c o c k t ai l w e l l , an d i s u s e d b e c ause i t won’t di st o rt t he c o lo u r o f a b r i gh t c o c k t ai l . B u t d o n ’ t underesti ma te i ts t ast e; ju st b e c a u se i t ’ s m i x e d y o u ’ l l s t i l l b e ab l e to f eel the refreshi n g te q u ila ‘k i c k ’ i n a c o c k t ai l o f o r an ge j ui ce a n d bri ght red gre n a din e . Enjo y a b o ttle o f sil v e r P at r o n T e q u i l a i n y o u r ma rga ri ta .
Re p o s a d o T he Re p o sa d o te q u i l a i s age d b e t w e e n t w o m o n t hs a nd a yea r gi v i ng i t a r ic he r ta ste . I t ’ s a d ar k e r , go l d e n b r o wn col our a nd i s smo o t he r a n d su b tl e . T h e m i x o f t h e c l e ar d i s t il l ed Bl a nco combi ned w ith o a k y flav o u r o f t h e An e j o m ak e i t a n i n -between , i f y o u will. Go in to a n y b ar o u t s i d e o f M e x i c o , as k f or a shot of tequi l a a n d yo u ’ll b e s e v e r e d Re p o s ad o , a s l i c e o f l i me a nd ha n ded a sal t sha k e r . R e p o s ad o c an al s o b e e n j o y e d m i xed i n a l on g i sl and ic e te a , c o sm o q u i l a ( a c o s m o p o l i t an m ad e wi th tequi l a ra ther t ha n vo dk a ) a n d c o m p l i m e n t s p e ac h , w at e r mel on a n d l emon fl av o u r s w e ll. Enjo y the p o p u la r Re p o s ad o t e q u i l a b r an d , J o s e C uerv o.
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iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 169
H al l o w e e n H o l i d ay i n M exi co
Halloween Holiday
h qualms wit o n e v a h spirit and r list of u n e o y e w n o o ll p a o off the H hould be t eriod. s o ic x e If you thrive M oween p itions then ll d a H ra t e y h k t o g o sp visit durin places to lement e t h ig fr e h t isn’t about o ic x e M c tradition e in t z n A e t e n w ie o c ll n an ely g Ha Celebratin o other places; it is a y and is taken extrem t joyous wa compared a in d a e g the d seriously. celebratin embering m re d n a elebrating c r fo ction with e d n e n n o w c o g n n ulture is re hare a stro s d n tuals come a ri rs e Mexican c s e e b h t m e n family m y is whe deceased he Halloween holida –t to life. the afterlife s (Feast a im n A s a t e las San d a t s cleaning ie y F b e a h t t s e is fi h er 27t s begin the flowers and pine ie il m fa On Octob re Souls) whe adorning them with ly o H e h t f o raves and g ’ s e iv t la needles. their re ravesite g e h t r a e d take rar y altar n n o a p l m o e h t o a lc a assemble sometimes d n uring it s a s a d They then o d n fo , a s with candle arted, offering it food it g in k c o t s to the dep g ved. in lk a t s turn that it is lo rating Halb le e c f o main day festivie n h t e e is w t s o ll 1 a 3 October f several H s when e h c it Universally, Mexico it is the first o w e h t f t in he night o t is s nd rarely ja a ru s loween bu b e B h s c it la w che de sed up as s re d n ties. La No re d r zombies. st chil o o s m e ir d p n fi m l a il you w umes like v other cost
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Hal l o w e e n H o l i d ay i n M e x i c o
in Mexico
en the door to in Unlike the conventional “trick or treat” you op the phrase QuereWestern cultures, in Mexico you are met with een.” mos Halloween which means “We want Hallow as Los Dias de Then comes two consecutive days referred to ad ” – Novemlos Muertos which translates to “Days of the De vember 2nd is ber 1st is All Saints’ Day. The following day, No All Souls Day. graves of their In Mexico, people have picnic lunches on the dead (“pan de deceased relatives and make bread for the letons, caskets muerto”) and candy in the shape of skulls, ske and crossbones. and hang lanterns People also light bonfires, set off firecrackers back home. on trees to help guide the souls of the dead t we recomThis is a Halloween experience like no other tha mend you partake in at least once in your life.
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 171
Studying In Mexico
Studying In
W
Mexico
hen you first picture Mexico you may be familiar with TV or movie scenes showing dynamic spring-break parties, beautiful sandy beaches and top hotels. On the other hand, Mexico’s rich ancient history boasts an array of diverse cultures and societies having once been home to the Mayans and Aztecs to name a few.
But did you know this multi-cultural country also offers great study opportunities? With its vast number of institutions and study programmes Mexico has no drawback in attracting students with differing educational interests and overall providing a great place to study. Mexico will particularly appeal to students who wish to study disciplines like History, Social Sciences, Spanish, Politics or Economics. As well as offering a variety of internship programmes specialising in a number of areas ranging from Biomedical Sciences to Business Management.
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Studying In Mexico
T h e U n i t e d Ki n gd o m ha s l ong been the top study ab r o ad d e s t i n at i o n , an d i t doesn’t ta k e a gen i us to f i gu r e o u t w h y – f o r E n g l i sh-spea k i ng students goi n g ab r o ad , i t ’ s o n e of the pl a ces where you don ’t h av e t o b e s t u d y i n g a f orei gn l a ngua ge to get by. Le ar n i n g a l an gu age i s ha rd, ri ght? So i f you ca n ge t aw ay w i th doi n g l ess work a n d sti l l s t u d yi ng ov ersea s, a l l the better! T h e U .K i s on e of the most popul a r d e s t i n at i o n s f or f i rst-ti me v a ca ti oners, so i t ’ s n o t s u r pri si n g tha t i t woul d a l so be popul a r wi th students.
o Student’s intent on studying in Mexico for more than six months must get a student visa before arriving by applying through their native country’s Mexican embassy. Fees start from around $1,000 USD per semester and can vary depending on the field of study and institution. Loans and scholarships are available as a financial aid, so it’s better to research all available options before making any important decisions. Mexico doesn’t fall short in offering natural landmarks, amazing attractions and enjoyable activities. You may wish to roam the Chichén Itzá site – one of the new Seven Wonders of the World – or explore the ancient ruins and colonial sites. If you’re feeling adventurous then perhaps climbing Devil’s Peak will be more your cup of tea or discovering the world’s second largest coral reef for a spot of scuba-diving or snorkelling.
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Ar ge n t i n a
Argentina According to Travel and Leisure magazine subscribers, its capital Buenos Aires is the second most desirable city worth visiting in the world after Florence. The country is divided up into six tourist provinces that include Buenos Aires, Cordoba, Cuyo, Literol, The North and Patagonia.
Buenos Aires The most popular tourist sites are the historic ones of the city comprising Montserrat and San Telmo, which were the administrative centre of the old Spanish Colony. The city also contains the Argentina National Congress in close proximity along with “Catedral Metropolitana,� that derives from the colonial period. At the Buenos Aires Province the Atlantic coast beckons giving tourists the chance to get fresh coastal air down their lungs. Students can have their pick of beaches, the most popular being Mar del Plata.
Cordoba Favourable weather conditions throughout the year mixed with little towns, scenic beauty, historical antiquities and cave paintings provide an opportunity for families to spend a pleasurable time here. Sierras de Cordoba is home to plains, salt mines, deserts and fertile valleys. This has given way to cattle ranches and that can prove a hit with the kids who are looking to enjoy a day out with the farm animals.
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Ar ge n t i n a
Cuyo Cuyo is well known for its natural beauty. Tourists should not forget their cameras as Cuyo’s provinces La Roja and San Juan have the highest peaks and snow covered volcanoes in the country. Not to mention the Andes Mountains that have different coloured landscapes shaped by erosion giving way to a spectrum of rock shaped colours.
Literol Literol holds six provinces of its own but is diverse in its own right and popular among tourists. Large rivers make up a vast portion of Literol that create tributaries towards the large Iguazu Falls on the border with Brazil. Another key attraction is Virgin forest that is full to the rafter with tall trees and lovely red earth.
The North The North is a reminder to Argentineans of preColumbian cultures that existed prior to colonialism. It’s a land full of gauges and mountains and will again appeal to tourists wanting to continue on an educational journey back to the past of Argentina. Argentina is unique and the most popular place in South America to visit for tourists because it has everything and I mean everything you could possibly ask for.
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Peru
PERU Pe r u is sta r t i n g t o gai n m o r e at t e n t i o n i n the worl d of tourism a s a p o pu l ar al t e r n at i v e t o m o r e e x p ensi v e tri ps to South A m e r ic a n c o un t r i e s s u c h as B r az i l an d Argenti n a . P ri zed wi th a p le tho r a o f at t r ac t i v e p l ac e s t o v i s i t and a cul tura l heri ta ge tha t p r e -d a te s t h e b i r t h o f Ch r i s t , P e r u h a s exci tement to of f er s t u d e n t s i n ab u n d an ce.
Lim a The fir st p o rt o f c al l f o r t o u r i s t s w i l l b e the ca pi ta l ci ty. Loc a te d o n C h i l l o n , Ri m ac an d Lu r i n r i v ers, Li ma i s bl essed w ith d ive r se e n v i r o n m e n t s an d n at u r al bea uty. F or student tr e k k e r s lo o k i n g t o f i n d t h e p i c t u r e s q u e i ma ge tha t ca ptures the m in ds o f f u t u r e t o u r i s t s , t h e y n e e d o n l y to dri v e out to the de se r t c o a st . T h e r e l i e s t h e m e s m e r i s i n g P a ci f i c, whi ch con tr a sts w o n d e r f u l l y w e l l w i t h t h e c o ar s e sa n dy surroun di n gs. L o c a te d in the c e n t r e i s t h e m o r e af f l u e n t pa rt of the ci ty where ta ll b u ild in gs an d s h o p p i n g s p r e e s ar e l i k el y to a ppea l credi tc a r d fla shin g t o u r i s t s . T h e Lar c o m ar s h oppi n g ma l l wi l l see to a ll y o u r n e e d s o n t h e r e t ai l - t h era py f ron t.
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Peru
M achu Picchu Pe r ha p s stud e n t s w an t t o c o n t i n u e t h e i r l ea rni ng experi en ce in to the su m m e r d u r i n g t h e i r h o l i d ay s and wha t better pl a ce to e x p lo r e tha n P e r u . An am al gam at i o n o f cul tures, rel i gi on s a nd p e o p le fr o m v ar i o u s r e gi o n s o n o u r p l anet ha v e hel ped sha pe Pe r u ’s histo r i c al h e r i t age . S o m e s i t e s h a v e been recogn i sed by U N E S CO l i k e M ac h u P icchu. O n e o f the m o s t i n t r i gu i n g p l ac e s t o s ee, Ma chu P i cchu repr e se n ts o n e o f h i s t o r y ’ s gr e at an c i e n t ci ti es epi tomi si ng the o r ig in a l o c c up an t s o f t h e l an d t h e I n c as through thei r compl ex a r c hite c tu r e s t r u c t u r e s . Re c o gn i s e d as on e of the Sev en W onde r s o f the M o d e r n Wo r l d , t h e “ Lo s t Ci t y of the In ca s, ” i s a n a m a z in g o p po r t u n i t y t o v i s i t a c i v i l i s ati on tha t wa s a dv a n ced fo r its tim e. T h e c i t y c o n t ai n e d t e m p l e s , resi denci es a n d dry sto n e d w a lls . T h e r e ’ s e v e n a t r ai l t h at l ea ds to the f ormer ca pi ta l ci t y . I f y o u h av e t i m e i t i s worth v i si ti ng.
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Peru
M an co ra a n d Tu m bes Res or t s O f c o u r s e P e r u i s n o t e x c l u s i v e l y b a s e d a r o u nd th e c a pita l L i m a . F o r s t u d e n t s s t i l l i n e n t r e n c h e d i n t h e p a rty lif e - sty le ; i nc o r p o r a t e d w i t h a be a c h r e s o r t o r t w o w i l l f ind so la c e in N o r t h er n P e r u . P a r t i c u l a r l y h o t e l L a s A r e n a s de Ma nc o ra Ho t e l i n t h e p o p u l a r r e s o r t o f M a n c o r a , w h i c h o f f e rs pa lm tre e s, s a nd y b ea c h e s a n d s k y b l u e s e a . L o c a l c l u b s a re ne a rb y w h e re y o u c a n f r a t er n i s e w i t h t h e l o c a l p o p u l o u s a s th e re is a re a l c o m m u n i t y f e e l a bo u t t h e r e s o r t a s a w h o le . T h er e’ s a l s o P u n t a S a l C l u b H o t e l i n T u m b e s , w h ic h is a f ully i n c l u s i v e b e a c h r e s o r t w i t h l o t s o f a m e n i t i e s . F o r f ish ing a f ic i o n a d o s t h e h o t e l g i v e s s t u d e n t s m o r e o f a n o p po rtunity to le t t h e i r h a i r d o w n o n h o l i da y.
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Peru
Re s t au r ant s Wanting to lea v e b eh in d th e s ta ple B r iti s h d i e t o f “Fi s h a n d Chips,” yo u ma y w is h to s a mple th e lo c a l c ui s i n e w h i c h n e v e r seizes to a ma ze. Kn o w n a s th e “ la n d o f a t h o us a n d f l a v o ur s , ” P eru is a cr o s s r o a d o f f o o d c u ltu r e o f f er i n g p r e a n d p o s t - c o n qu es t d is h es . The Centr a ir e Res ta u r a n te lo c a ted in th e h e a r t o f L i m a p r o vid es food c a ter ed to w a r d s th e mo r e a f f lue n t . O n e o f t h e m o r e extravag a n t s ig n a tu r e d is h es o n th e men u i s c h a r r e d p ur p l e corn scented o c to pu s . It c er ta in ly s o u n d s o ut r a g e o us but o f f e r s something v er y u n iqu e. F o r th o s e w a n ting t o e a t m o r e Ch i n e s e and Japanes e b a s ed f o o d in ter s per s ed w it h P e r uv i a n f l a v o ur s , known a s “ C h if a s , ” th ey n eed n o t g o b ey o n d t h e M i r a f l o r e s district, wh ic h o f f er h u n d r ed s o f C h in es e r e s t a ur a n t s s p e c i a l ising in c h ic ken , w h er ea s th e f ew er Ja pa n e s e e a t e r i e s o f f e r a mo r e s ea f o o d b a s ed ex per i e n c e .
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B e s t o f t h e Re s t o f S o u t h Ameri ca
Best of the Rest of South Ame
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e sp ite the n e g a t i v e m e d i a c o v e r age t h at Co l ombi a f a ces, i t i s sti l l a n a m a z in g c o u n t r y f o r t o u r i s t s t o v i s i t . C ol ombi a i s swa mped w ith W o r ld H e r i t age S i t e s ap p r o v e d b y U N ESC O, the most f a mous b e in g C a r ta g e n a w h e r e an o l d d e r e l i c t d e f ence system compri sed of fo r ts a n d c a n no n s m ak e f o r s t e l l ar v i e w i ng.
O ne c an de c id e to visit L o s K at i o s N at i o n al P ar k and a dmi re extra ordi n a ry diversi t y of p la n t a n d an i m al l i f e . I t b e c am e a U N ESC O si te i n 1 994 a nd the 278 square m ile o f g r e e ne r y h as r e m ai n e d p r o t e c t e d si nce. Somethi n g tha t w ill l i ght u p to u r ist e yes i s t h e G o l d M u s e u m i n t h e ca pi ta l Bogota . The mus e um h as o n d isp la y 5 5 , 0 0 0 p i e c e s o f go l d e n i t e m s desi gned duri ng the preH ispani c pe r io d. You c an pass thr o u g h B o go t a B o t an i c al G ar d e n o r Bol i v a r Squa re a n d a dd v is it s t o t h e Sa lt C a the d r al o f Z i p aq u i r a t o f i l l y o ur i ti nera ry i n the ca pi ta l .
B e st o f t h e Re s t o f S o u t h Am e r i ca
erica C o s ta R i c a S p a n is h . It ’s in t” s a o c h ic “r s y m ea n ic a ra g u a , N y C o s ta R ic a li te ra ll b ed d n u o rr u s a l A m er ic a s it u a te d in C en tr ic O c ea n . if c a P d n a ea S n P a n a m a , C a ri b b ea one of d n a e c n a d n u b a ra l b ea u ty in o es , es p ec ia lT h e s ta te h a s n a tu n a lc o v e th re a s n tt ra c ti o R ic a h a s ta s o C it s m a in to u ri s t a ’s 0 8 9 1 e th e ra te r. S in c n a l P a rk o ti a N ly P o a s V o lc a n o C a it u h a C h n a l p a rk s w it o ti a n s it d te c te g iv en to u rro o p ls a s a h m s ri u c h ! E c o to A n ex a m p le t. h a v in g it s o w n b ea en er f if d g in h en jo y s o m et la re d a W o rl d is ts th e c h a n c e to ec d n ee b s a h h ic h la n d , w h ig h ly re c d n o f th is is C o c o s Is a y it s er iv d io b is f u ll o f nd hoba g in h H er it a g e S it e a n d tc a -w d ir b s ts w h o en jo y ri u to to ed d en m m o is . b ie s s im il a r to th o n o t f o rg et to d a ic R ta s o C to tr a v el n o n e s id e o f O ! If y o u ’r e g o in g to is in ik b d n a s in g tr u n k s t li es th e a o c er p a c k y o u r s w im m th o e th n o e P a c if ic a n d ea c h es w o rt h b C o s ta R ic a li es th r la u p o p t s o m e S ea . T h A n to n io el u a q u a ti c C a ri b b ea n n a M d n a h c a c u n d o B ea tr a v el li n g to a re Z w a s li s te d b y , rk a P l a n o ti a N in a u ti f u l in th e ea b B ea c h , w h ic h to o is t s o m e th f o e o n g tw el v F o rb es in 2 0 1 1 a m w o rl d .
B e s t o f t h e Re s t o f S o u t h Ameri ca
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B e st o f t h e Re s t o f S o u t h Am e r i ca
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Boli via i s has exper a uniqu e i cour ts to enced po case for litic uris Sout tour t a ists s l h Am e i n n s beca m t arou abili asse nd i erica, it t . y bu use it Loca t. is bo t it s rdere ted in till cent d by The ral A coun est i ndes mo t ries n th u all n t a e wo i the a n pea rld r des, duous jo outside k in Bol t u i o as g he moun rney in f Asia. via is th volve re ta C e lar gd in onsider man at is the ins are i y tou s n w e L g o e nder ing and rists ake Tit the A f u l fishi i c w t a o h nc o enj s a ng. oy r , which ee. Just elaxi b The ng b rings in lake oat r is peopl ides e tha also ho me t ten c t o ausi live on ng i artif the Uros set i n n , ic ple o their an trigue am ial floa a pre-In ca ti f c tour Kalasas ient way ong tou ng islan n rists is a ds of s of whic ts may ya, still a l i s f e t . h wan h is e T p y he In reser are t to a Wo UNE v c e a s d n ee r SCO . So ld Herita and th is somet Temand e cit there see. hing ge S y ’s a i o t f Pot varia e recog n tion ised osi, of th b ings y to do
Car i b b e an
Caribbean Simply put, the Caribbean is one big paradise destination. Most travellers will know this place as being the world’s most popular place for a beach holiday with sun, sea and surf aplenty but there’s more to the Caribbean than first meets the eye. It is the home of reggae music, mouth-watering cuisine, vibrant culture and not forgetting rum – the list can go on.
Life’s a beach... Pink skyline, glorious sunset, turquoise waters, golden sand, coconut palms… you must get the idea now. The Caribbean boasts some of the world’s magnificent beaches so we won’t be surprised if you find yourself spending the majority of your time on any one of these natural wonders. The greatest thing about the Caribbean is its broad selection of colourful beaches offering pink sand, white sand and black sand. And if one thing’s for sure, it is that sunscreen is a necessity and with a variety of this many beaches you’re going to need a hell of a lot. Many wonderful stretches of coast lie adjacent to the Caribbean’s beach resorts and there’s no coincidence that each is close to a coral reef — the main source of the dazzling white which clearly illustrates why the Caribbean is the world’s greatest beach destination. Luminous colours of turquoise, blue and jade make up the stunning water displays that are reflected thanks to the blazing sun overlooking the islands. Some beaches aren’t that easy to get but that spurs you even more to discover your own exclusive beach sanctuary – there are lots still anticipating their discovery. So rather than admiring the beautiful pictures of this spectacular region, get packing, get going and soon you’ll be appreciating them in the flesh laying back on a deckchair with a refreshing cocktail. 184 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
Car i b b e an
Islands galore... The Caribbean stretches over an impressive 7000 islands each with its own charm and character. The Caribbean is as remarkable and as colourful as its island beaches and forests – there is nothing bland when it comes to the beauty of the Caribbean, whether it be a relaxing retreat or an adventure holiday, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for here. And with our insight to the Caribbean you’ll find out everything you need to know before jetting off to the fantasy island of your choice. The towering Blue Mountain is the cherry on top of the cake when it comes to the island of Jamaica which yearns to be explored along with the region’s strong musical influence –the world-famous reggae legend that is Bob Marley still lives on in this magical place accompanied with the effervescence of the welcoming locals and culture. Jamaica is famed for being the birthplace of notable figures like the aforementioned Bob Marley but also world-record holder and Olympian Usain Bolt, Reggae, dancing and signature cuisine such as jerk chicken, saltfish and ackee. Over 200 pristine white sand islands and 700 cays make up the Bahamas, which is as exotic as its name suggests. The climate is mild all year-round, the beaches are exceptional and there’s always plenty of things to keep you entertained - one day you can be snorkelling, the next you could be feeding sharks. The world is your oyster in the wonders of the Caribbean and these are simply a few of the distinct beauties that make up the Caribbean so carry on reading to find out why your next trip should be the vivid and appealing continent of the Caribbean.
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Car i b b e an
Where to start... With an archipelago of over thirty countries you won’t know where to begin when venturing to the Caribbean. Now of course you’d think the best place to start is the beach, straight to the laid-back relaxing haven of the sand, sea and sun but we recommend you start your travels by exploring major attractions and the area and culture in general first. That way you get all the sight-seeing out of the way and have time to see and do the things you’d like before reflecting on your experience within the last few days of your vacation whilst basking in the warm sunshine and catching some rays on the beach. Several James Bond films were filmed in the Caribbean like Live and Let Die and Casino Royale so you’re not far from the action and adventure that this place has to offer.
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A
A Ru m G u i d e t o t h e C ar i bbea n
RUM Caribbean
GUIDE TO THE
Y 188 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
t it does help bu m ru u yo y jo en to w ro ar ou don’t have to be Jack Sp iginated from or m ru t es fin d an al in ig or e to be in the Caribbean. Th where to enjoy the best d an w ho u yo g llin te be the islands so we’ll ended rums. If you take mm co re p to r ou th wi g on bottles available al his fellow shipmates, d an w ro ar Sp ck Ja e lik st ju our advice however, the rum gone?’ s ha re he ‘w g kin as lf se ur you’ll defiantly find yo
A Ru m G u i d e t o t h e Car i b b e an
How Rum is Made?
R
um derives from the Caribbean, in particular Barbados. The first account of rum distillation was in 1651 with Mount Gay Rum dating back as the first reported production company. Rum is made from molasses - thick dark syrup made of sugarcane, grapes and sugar. Yeast and water are then added to start the fermentation process and aged for at least a year. The colour of the drink depends on what it is aged in, for example oak casks darken the rum whereas steel tanks leaves the rum colourless. There are seven ‘grades’ of rum, these being light, gold, dark, spiced, flavoured, over proof and premium, with light rum being filtered to remove all traces of colour, spiced made with cinnamon, rosemary and pepper and flavoured rums coming in mango, orange, banana and lime amongst others. If you fancy seeing how rum is made and want to take a sip of the first drink Daniel Craig orders in Casino Royale visit Mount Gay Rum for tours Monday to Friday 9.30am-3.30pm here.
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A Ru m G u i d e t o t h e C ar i bbea n
Where to Enjoy It
B
arbados is the island to head to for original rum but neighbouring islands such as St Vincent, the Dominican Republic, St Lucia, and Jamaica all run rum production lines. Haiti in particular is famous for theirs, with it being the countr y’s most popular alcoholic drink. Head to Port-au-Prince, the capital city of Haiti where the family run business ‘Rhum Barbancourt ’ makes the tastiest rum in the countr y. St Kitts and Nevis produces some of the best flavoured rums sold in a Brinley Gold Company bottle. The company produces unique rum flavours such as coffee, mango and vanilla. For a more familiar take on the drink, it would be unheard of to visit Bermuda and not try a glass of Bacardi, the place where it all began. Take a lift to the top floor of the Bacardi building where sits a bar which stocks all types and flavours and blends. Order your favourite poison, sit back and enjoy your Bacardi from where it all began.
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A Ru m G u i d e t o t h e Car i b b e an
The Best of the B Mount Gay Ru
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Being the old est, means it ’s one of the be a rich carame st. As a dark l sweetness a rum, it ’s descri n d leaves a long severed alone bed as havin lingering dry fi and during the g n is h. This one is winter to warm perfect you up. Shillingford Esta tes – Dominica Republic This white coc onut favoured rum is a favouri with milk, Coca te around the -Cola, pineap world and is u ple juice, cran way we recom sually enjoyed b e rr y juice and va mend you enjo rious soft drinks. y Malibu is on the rocks. The best Captain Morg an – Puerto Ric o Puerto Rico’s signature whit e rum is sweete It is distilled so ned with flavo smoothly that urs of vanilla a it ’s said if you sub won’t be able nd citrus fruits. stitute Don Q to tell the diffe for vodka in a rence. drink you
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Car i b b e an B e ac h e s
Best of the
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f the h a why n rsh expen se o beach t escape th of studen tl e e beach s the Carib trials and ife has not tr e b c reach s are truly ean has to ibulations ompletely ing sa s c o nds, a pectacular ffer? The of Univers leared out it . ll loca b y ted on Clear blue eauty of th y with an a our bank accou ll-inc e Car skies, island l nt i u b c s that s a b are br lm and cle ean island ive getawa this semes te y immi a s ng wi r waters, e is well-kn to the bes r, t th life x o and c otic marin wn, and th ulture e-life e and fa ir . r-
Reduit
Beach
St Luc ia
St. Lucia’s premier beach is located near Rodney Bay on the island’s north coast. Spend your days at this idyllic beach and admire its smooth white sands and transparent gentle waters. On any day you can look out across the ocean and see luxury yachts that can be chartered from the large marina nearby. However, for a cheaper and much more fun option you can hire one of the beaches’ very popular water inflatables. Hang on tight and experience this unforgettable thrill-ride as you are pulled across the bay at speed via boat. What makes Reduit Beach such a popular beach for visitors is its proximity to the island’s vibrant nightlife. So after you’ve finished your free drinks at the hotel, head on down to Spinnaker’s, the hottest beach bar in town. The bar offers a beach party atmosphere and late afternoon happy hours with delicious cocktails for next-to-nothing prices. Finally, Reduit is famous for its view of the stunning St. Lucian sunset, so sit back and enjoy the spectacle.
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Car i b b e an B e ac h e s
Caribbean Beaches
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There are few places in the world as tra nquil as the Bahamas’ ‘Out Islands’. Am ongst these tropical paradises is Harbour Island, and along its ea stern coast lies the very usual beach of Pink Sands. This magnificent three-mile stretch gets its name and un iqueness from the florid and vibrant san ds that coat its shoreline. The pink colouring that appears when the sun strikes the sand is a sight to be hold, and has been known to attract many celebrities to the island. Th e soft, lush surface of Pink Sands is mo re than matched by its seashore, which is part of the third-largest barrier reef in the world. The clear and sparkling waters make this the perfect place for snorkelling, where divers can witness some of the island’s exotic marine life. Use this opportunity to explore reefs and unde rwater grottos, and get up-close and pe rsonal with a range of fish, stingrays and even sharks. I f you wish to venture outside your ho tel after hours, we recommend you pa y a visit to the Vic Hum Club, which has a sports vibe. Its eccentric an d friendly owner, know to most as “Hitle r”, will more than likely be there to welcome you with open arms.
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Car i b b e an B e ac h e s
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The annual Trinidad carnival is an event that takes place during Easter, all across the Caribbean island. The carnival’s biggest celebrations take place in Port of Spain; in which revellers take to the streets to enjoy the two-day music and dance festival and parade. This is perhaps the best time to visit the next luxury beach on our list. Maracas Beach is a 45-minute drive from the Trinidad and Tobago capital, and the drive itself is packed full with breathtaking views of the island’s landscape. Maracas Beach stands out from other beaches in the area as it is secluded in a deep cove. The halfmoon hideaway is complete with amber sands, shimmering waters and leaning palms. If that’s not enough, its backdrop of the Maracas hills makes this beach as aesthetically pleasing as can be.
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match. The Amber to e am n e th h it w re of beauty and allu ce n se es Dorada literally e th ya la is P ch d ea an b , t d n sa en Our nex ld is covered with go c li b u ep R t across this an u o ic k in o m lo o d D e an n th f su o t e as th co Why not soak up ”. ch ea B e view of m en li ld b o su G a e g in “Th er to ff o in d es an at transl tropical greenery in d se ca n E g. in tt se ct relaxation hafe er p e th is a d ra o picturesque holiday D unt Isabela, Playa o M ve ti ac tr at st ri u to the popular ven. as an excellent h a d ra o D ya la P ; ay st ment during you’re te ci ex it is known b a ch t ea b an e w u Th . yo if ge , an er -r ev ce w Ho hing to suit any pri et m so h it w s, rt o sp nge you amongst lu er p h ic h w s, n io rs selection of wat cu ex and scuba diving g n li el rk o al fish. Whether sn ic s p it o r tr f fo o y y rl ra ar r la particula cu swim with a specta to le ab e ar u yo e er ant to do absolutely h w r o , le ib ss o the corals, w p as es ti y exciting activi an m as g n yi tr n o n ee k you’re t of both worlds. es b e th u yo s ve gi a d nothing, Playa Dora
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Sometimes it pays dividends to save a bit of cash, so if your student loan is still ticking over during the Christmas break then why not head out to the Caribbean and enjoy some tropical sunshine. While booking the hotels and flights doesn’t usually come cheap, once you are there many of these resorts are all inclusive and activities like beach volleyball or sunbathing don’t cost a dime.
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Cu b a
Cuba
Cuba . r M than y vor e t r n t u s o i c the enin L s e t i f s i i Presx n r o d a s e r k M e c p a As etter US ba . b o e r y h t into t d s o a t a s b C ob u u l o e C d o ing o f Fi ed t himsel y he manag ebellion turn tries. Castr ar gh r indus u o s r from lution t h i s t r g a a n t e i s nBati een y a t onalis i n r t e o a f v e n ident ” for s ente e by d t r i e a s t t e s s r i t P n lis d the Mi “el e a i e d o c t n o m i e a s l r a he h as P is ro n h d e e h g v w n r i e t 8 200 nver has s l o i c t e n r u o ef rs aul. R r 1959 b rty-two yea e h farot b i n h s e t i e r h r othe are g wer to a o ary n p a n f v o o i a t s H u revol reign ts in e s i k h r a g great m n r i l o s a f i c l e o o mak ymb s d in l y perl n e e u h f d o o T i f F d ! n l n e y Oft ed b s fou ymbo n e s r Che r o x u s e d t s c a m i r , a p s a e e som tigu s and de in t y a r r b i h m d olace s o n s c e a h d s e t i n g h o u a im s as d conic, hat fo t i t f i e y r g r o a t en m tion v u touris e l o e v n e o r s a ome haps s . He too wa ra ent. m e Gueva v o el’s m d i F n i
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In an i n t e r v i e w gi v e n w i t h an Ita l i a n journa l i st he p o s e d f o r a p i c t u r e t h at h as b ecome the most f a mous a n d s y m b o l i c i m age o f r e s i s t a nce to ca pi ta l i sm posin g i n a s t au n c h m an n e r w i t h hi s a rmy ha t. It i s a fav o u r i t e am o n g t o u r i s t s v i a shi rt i mpri n ts a n d othe r f o r m s o f m e r c h an d i s e . T h e pi cture ca n be v i si ted a t t h e P l az a d e l a Re v o l u c i o n , whi ch i s a muni ci pa l it y w h e r e Ch e ’ s p i c t u r e h an gs wi th the sl oga n “Ha sta la V i c t o r i a S i e m p r e ” at t ac h e d to i t.
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Fo r co u p le s lo o k in g t o s h ak e t h e i r h i p s an d f e e l red hot on t h e da n c e flo o r , o n e c an ’ t l o o k p as t C u b a’ s v e r y own styl e o f Latin M u sic . Th o s e l o o k i n g f o r a m o r e u p b e at styl e w i l l l ove the live b a nd s t h at p l ay i n t h e c e n t r e of the ca pi t al . C u b a n Sa lsa h as a f i e r y t i n ge an d c an b e i ntense as i t ex tr e m e ly p a ss i o n at e . J u s t as u p b e at b u t wi thout the exh i l a r a tio n is L a ti n J az z an d i t ad d s t o t h e s wi n gi n g ni gh tlife in H a va n a. T h e H o t e l N ac i o n al h o s t s l i v e a cts l i ke Om a r a Po r tu o n d o i f y o u f an c y an e l e c t r i f yi ng a tm o sp he r e . B ut t h e r e is a lo t mo r e t o H av an a t h an a s w i n g i ng ni ghtl i fe an d m o n u m e n t s d e d i c at e d t o t h e i r r e v o l u t i on a ry hero es. Y o u to u r ists wan t i n g t o s am p l e t h e l o c al ti ppl e sho ul d tr a ve l to the H av an a C l u b Ru m F ac t o r y . Those w el l b e ha ve d m a y g e t f r e e b i e s ! O n e c o u l d s e e L a Ha ba n a Vi eja ( O ld To w n ) fo r p h o t o s n ap p i n g s e s s i o n s a s i t’s a W o rl d H e r ita g e Site . Tast e the lo c a l c u isi n e at C af é O r i e n t e w h i c h h as spl endi d m i xt ur e o f fo o d d e r i v i n g Am e r i c an , S p an i s h and C a ri bbean in flu e n c e s. An d i f t h at ’ s n o t e n o u gh ge t yoursel f do wn to Sa n ta M a r i a d e l M ar a b e ac h e n d o w e d wi th pa l m t rees, w hite sa n d a nd b l u e s e a.
Be s t O f T h e Re s t O f T h e C ari bbea n
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A n ti g u a a n d B a r b u d a
Antigua and Barbuda are exotic neighbouring islands with attractive beaches and splendid reefs, rich colonial heritage, fascinating culture and a healthy mix of leisure and sports activities. Antigua is a lively island, you’d be surprised to think that slavery and sugar plantations once dominated this diverse place, whereas Barbuda is a quiet island which typically attracts bird watchers wishing to catch a glimpse of the native frigate birds. Pay a visit to the country’s most popular attraction Nelson’s Dockyard, the historical 18th century British naval base which has been converted into shops, restaurants, a market, an art centre and a nautical museum. Life’s a beach in Antigua and Barbuda, with an amazing 365 white and pink beaches, there’s one for each day of the year. The capital city, St John’s is the ideal place for shopping. Here you will also find the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda to delve into the past of this Caribbean Island’s history as well as other note-worthy attractions like the Cathedral and Botanical Gardens.
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Be s t O f T h e Re s t O f T h e C ari bbea n
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tacular c e p s s t i orests to f n i a r l u duction f o r r u p o l s t o i c o s t with it e” due y c i t p u edia S r e f g b o n l i d a r e n s a u l e t s a h aking n ters of t as the “I t r n o h t p w easons a x r o e e n e r t k h b s t s e f i f g o t o r I a d e orld’s l an islan eaches. ng som w b o s e i nse y h m a t A d a d f n d e a o a r n n s a e a e e r s n t r i o G Gr e h t t l eautifu ling wa makes i d soft w k b n r h e a a c i h s p t l h s l e a w d f d r m ads n u s a l p i c r o s r n u k i wate c r o t s a e n c p ’s a , a o renad ments attracti u G g and m r n r e o o o j f zing m a t m a p , u m o s m n r ’s k a f r d y , o a r k h t c c m n a a fect be usual b ric land r The cou o e e t . h p s a t i amp d e s H i r a w s u n . h t s e e c t c r i i v h p o G en r , w o g a travel t d wide stal are us man s n a o t a o s i c r m r r a c f u i o o n n t m e e why e to an rists fro asts a sc u o m o b o t h s k t r n c a o a P r o l t ationa nd a lag N a Beach at a s r bitats. d e a e v h b e e s L f s i . l a s r d t l g i n vertiseme coral reefs and sea pecies and other w ds ith marine w ven for diverse bir ha which is a
With mil es o their own f coast sli dip in the ce of he re and scub freshing ad ture is yo iving, aft ur riding. Th middle n e capital ci York – a city that n t ev tractions . Whale- e wa anywher e better t tc han there. Th e Domin in ican Caribbea n – Pico Duart
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B e st O f T h e Re s t O f T h e C ar i b b ea n
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ubl tline and over 350 ic beaches, eaven in travellers the Dom won’t find i n i can Repu g ocean w it hard to blic. Lou aters or t come n r y g fter all th at is what some invigorating e on the golden sa across nds, the wat name, try things lik Dominican Repu er sports like win take a blic d surfing em ty, Santo Domingo ountain climbing is popular for. If a , , is the D er sleeps. ominican rafting, hiking or dvenYou’ll be horsebac Republic right in t ching is a k ’s e h quivalent e heart of must in t t t o h h N e e in Saman a, so if yo Dominican Repu entertainment an ew blic and y d atu wa Republic ou won’t is notably nt a one-off expe find it rience we home to te and th su th e largest l ake in the e highest mounta ggest you head in peak in Caribbea n – Lake the Enriquill o. iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 201
S t u d y i n g I n C o s t a Ri ca
Study Abroad:
Costa Rica
e list of h t n o highly The s k . s n t a n r e a d c u ing st sta Ri k o a C e nce , p a t s o p c i h x e s i c e n and M or Spa its general ac lethora f n s i n a o i p t S its p estina army, d d ion to g n t i n d a i d , a d ) d n o e r a r n sta ab oning reti a y e f o g d t r o u s u t t k s b c l a a a p potenti famous for its la r place for ex ’re cultivating u la is countr y ers (it ’s a popu s. Oh, and if yo osta Rica. C n tie of foreig rism opportuni n’t go wrong in ou you ca , of ecot e e f f o n to c o i t c i d ad
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With half a billion speakers in over twenty countries, Spanish is one of the principal languages of the world. Academia De Espanol D’Amore is a quality educational institution created to facilitate the learning of Spanish, taking place at one of the most beautiful beaches in - Costa Rica Manuel Antonio in Quepos. They incorporate the total Spanish Immersion process of education to ensure the most efficient learning experience possible. San José is known to be the biggest cosmopolitan city in Central America. The city is packed with modern lifestyles in a vibrant environment, yet still has fascinating traces of its history. The markets are vibrant and the nightlife is as sophisticated (or debaucherous) as you want it to be. San José is home to numerous museums and there are a few neighbourhoods where colonial styling still radiates.
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Costa the b Rica is pac e k sport autiful Bu ed with fun s, e a atmo or simply na Vista R ctivities to spher study a fi e. on th inforest, in ll your spa r e be ach a dulge in e time with. Depe am Di s you n bucks ding on y soak ultitude o scover o up th t month o just ove ur course e sen f water r 8,00 . sation 0, wit and loca al tion, h livin f g co sts se ees var y t at a fr round om 2,000 1,500 per
added e th s a h a , Costa Ric e v ti c e p rs visit than e p to ’s d r rl e o ll w e v e a th tr f From a per part o a e h ns. And c o ti a a in c g lo in d e a b ro f benefit o r study ab la u p lated o p re t g s in o m th y ’s n e a p g ro in many of Eu ou ’re study y if ; e v aven. ti e c h e p to rs e e p n o ’s t g n died and from a stude e ’v u o y k in ersion of v th r y u a o y m u in o s y m a to nature no final ex re a re e th , e urs Unless, of co heaven.
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S t u d y M e d i c i n e I n B e l i ze
S tu dy in g in
Belize
ost m e h t broad a so it g , n d i n y i d f stu dent e to m o u m t k o s c n i g spirin ople th ries usually e a p n n a e h lize. or e nt f u B e o s e c i k r f i o a surp r country l heard s a e com ilia m a f n s the would i u e n z a i l r side ofla, Be e a h t m e s t to con i d Gua re English n sal r a e o v c i i e n x h try w een Me great u n w a u t ill o e t c b i w s n d h e e a s t i c k l i a a Eng Situ ly m Amer d l all l a n a i t a r t t a i t s n n r h i e e s i C d s o un e thi Engl only h g y a w n u s a g t lan know tuden t S ’ earn. n . ficial l o y d o d t u u e t o o s plac if y t r s o e e b r place t e e in h ly th s the t i e t h i h g s n i i i r f n fit is de , Spa e s e z may i i t l i e u c o B i y n n the ize so sh eth l i e and n B a g p n n i i S t i e f g, wr guag rity o n n o i j a l d a lana d m e h e r s s a i h u h s n t i a y i W onl e Sp Span e m r r f m u o e o c c y y sin l second rush up on l a i c e o b re esp e h s wish t l l ki ble. s a l g i a n i v are a speak s e s r u co guage
W
AUSTRAL
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Lia
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Australia
A
I n tr oduct ion
u str a lia a lw a y s s e e m s t o b e t h e m o s t p o p ul a r country ga p-yea r tr a ve lle r s flo c k t o , an d w e c an s e e w h y . There a re so ma ny di f f ere n t p la c e s to e x p l o r e , f r o m u r b an c i t i e s t o rock y deserts a nd sa n dy be a c he s to p ic t u r e s q u e p ar k s . E ac h ar e a h a s i ts own uni que cha rm a n d a p p e a l a n d o n e t h i n g i s f o r s u r e , t h e re i s somethi ng f or ev eryon e i n Austr a lia . It’s a n i n c r e d i b l y l ar ge c o u n t r y di v i ded i n to i n di v i dua l s tat es and va r io u s te r r it o r i e s w i t h a n u m b e r o f d i v erse l a n dsca pes a n d a ttr act i o ns lik e the r e n o w n e d S y d n e y H ar b o u r B r i d ge a nd G rea t Ba rri er R eef .
An d n ot ma n y pl a ces i n the worl d c an b o a st ha v i ng i ts own excl us i v e i s l a nd, n ot onl y tha t but
biggest isla nd in the world , yet Austra l i a ca n . al s o b e i n g the
I t e v e n ha d i ts own con ti nen t n am e d a f ter i tsel f – whi ch i s n ow c al l e d Ocea ni a or someti mes ref e r r e d to a s Austra l a si a . Aust r al i a h a s come a l on g wa y si n ce i t s v e i ns wa s seeped wi th 4 0, 000 y e ar s o f Abori gi n a l heri ta ge a n d c u l t u r e . N owa da ys, you’l l f i n d i t f i l l e d wi th l a i d-ba ck Aussi es w h o e n j oy the occa si ona l surf a nd w i l l , m ost l i k el y, greet you wi th a s i gn a ture “good da y ma te! ”
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Sydney and Melbourne a re
u n d o u b t e d l y t h e m o s t p o pul a r desti na ti on s peopl e w i l l c h o o s e t o v i s i t i n Au s tra l i a a s they’re the most h e ar d o f . S y d n e y i s i n f a mous f or i ts pi cture-postc ar d H ar b o u r B r i d ge an d Opera House whi ch a re i n s t an t l y r e c o gn i s e d al l ov er the worl d. Thi s urba n c i t y i s at t h e c e n t r e o f i t a l l , some coul d sa y i t’s t h e N e w Yo r k , P ar i s o r London equi v a l en t of Aust r al i a.
Melbourn e i s t h e c u l t u r al c ap i t al o f
A u st ral i a, w ith its e le g an t b u i l d i n gs an d c h u r c h e s , beaut i f u l b e a c he s, tr ee - l i n e d b o u l e v ar d s , b o ta ni c al ga r de n s a n d p a rk s an d t h e M e l b o u r n e Mu seum . Me lbo u r n e is h o m e t o t h e o l d e s t z o o in Aust ral ia w he r e the wi l d l i f e i s p r e s e r v e d w e l l . Spo t t i ng the o c c a sio n a l k an gar o o s , e m u s , w al l abie s, ko al a s a n d c o c k a to o s o n t h e s t r e e t s o f t h i s de ligh t ful c ity isn ’t su rp r i s i n g s o y o u m ay as w e l l l eav e yo u r b in o c u lar s at h o m e . iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 209
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Que ensland – Au s t r al i a’ s ‘ S u n s h i n e
Stat e’ – i s the u ltim a te v ac at i o n ge t aw ay f o r o u t s t an din g rai nfo r e sts, vib r a n t c i t i e s an d i m m ac u l at e b e aches. It i s al so t he g a te w a y to t h e G r e at B ar r i e r Re e f an d be aut i ful c o a sta l r e so r t P o r t Do u gl as w h i c h i s c l o s e to a n o t her t ou r ist a ttr a c tion , Dai n t r e e N at i o n al P ar k . Y ou m ay go h o p in g to fin d ju s t a f e w at t r ac t i o n s b u t y ou’l l g e t mo re t ha n yo u ba r g ai n e d f o r w h i c h i s t h e gr e at thing abo ut this p la c e a n d Au s t r al i a i n ge n e r al – t here’s a s urp ri se a r o u n d e ve r y c o r n e r .
Perth i s the sun ni est sta te ca pi -
t al w i t h an a v era ge of 3 , 000 hours of s u n s h i n e e ach yea r on top of bei n g h o m e t o 19 o f the most bea uti f ul , cl ea n an d l e s s c r o wded bea ches. Loca ted n e x t t o t h e S wa n R i v er, P erth boa sts o n e o f t h e b i g gest i n ner-ci ty pa rk s i n t h e w o r l d – K i ngs P a rk a n d Bota n i c G ar d e n – w h i ch i s ev en bi gger tha n N e w Yo r k ’ s C entra l P a rk . F or i n di v i du al s w h o l o v e reta i l thera py, the hi ghe n d b o u t i q u e shops a n d ma l l s f oun d ar o u n d P e r t h a re a must.
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Gold Coast
The i s on e of the most i l l u s t r i o u s Au s t r al i an s u n a n d surf hol i da y desti n at i o n s f o r b o t h r e l ax at i o n a n d esca pa de. Surf e r ’ s p ar ad i s e c an b e f o u n d i n the hea rt of the G ol d Co as t an d c e r t ai n l y l i v e s up to i ts n a me wi th i t s s i gn at u r e s u r f b e ac h e s, thri v i ng ni ghtl i f e, am u s i n g t h e m e p ar k s an d excel l ent shoppi ng. P ay a v i s i t t o M o u n t T ambouri ne wi th i ts a ma zi n g gl o w w o r m c av e s an d wa terf a l l s or a ppreci a te t h e r e al b e au t y o f t h e G o l d C oa st wi th won derf ul v i e w s f r o m t h e w o r l d h e r i ta ge l i sted La mi n gton N at i o n al P ar k .
Before you go down under, read our guide t o t h e t o p p l ac e s worthy of a vi si t wh e n ve n tu r in g t o Au s t r al i a. M ak e s u r e y o u ta k e your ca mera as the r e ’s a lo t to e x p l o r e an d d i s c o v e r an d be prepa red to e nco unt er k a n g a r o o s, k o al as an d o t h e r d i v e r s e w i l d l i f e; i t’s a l l a p a r t o f t h e a m a z in g A u s s i e e x p e r i e n c e .
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Pl an n i n g y o ur t rave l f c o u r se , the b e st o p t i o n w h e n i t c o m e s t o t r a v el l i ng to Austra l i a i s by air p la n e , de p e n d i n g o n t h e c o u n t r y y o u ’ r e d epa rti ng f rom. Ta k e f or ex a m p le ; it ta k e s at l e as t a w h o l e e n t i r e d ay just to get to Austra l i a fro m B r ita in .
O
Bu t this typ e o f t r av e l al s o e x t e n d s t o t r av el l i n g domesti ca l l y wi thi n Aus tr a lia w he r e ge t t i n g f r o m A t o B i s m u c h f urther tha n you’d f i rst t hi nk. A u str a lia n s r e l y o n av i at i o n i n t h e s ame wa y peopl e f rom sma l l er co unt r ie s r e ly o n tr a i n s an d b u s e s . I t i s t h e b e s t f orm of tra nsport whi ch al l o w s yo u to q u ic k l y h o p b e t w e e n d i f f e r e n t p l aces i f your ti me i n Aust ral i a is sho r t. D o m e s t i c f l i gh t s o p e r at e b e t w e e n ma jor ci ti es.
Car hire is reasonably priced in Australia and is available to those over 21 who prefer to travel around the country at their own pace. Renting a 4x4 (four-wheel drive vehicle) is one of the best ways to see explore the country. So get behind the wheel and have a real off-road adventure cruising through the Outback.
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Trav e l Ar o u n d Au s t r al i a P l an Jump on a tram which will take you through the lively streets of Melbourne or take a ferry ride and watch the beautiful Sydney Harbour on the relaxing waters. Australia isn’t short of clean, affordable and reliable public transport – from trains, busses, monorail, trams, ferries you have everything at hand to get you in and around Australian towns and cities. Taxis are a safe and affordable alternative to public transport and are easy to arrange or flag down. Meter-operated taxis can be found in most town and cities – there is a minimum ‘flagfall charge’ on top of the charge for the distance travelled. On the plus side, taxi drivers don’t expect to be tipped and some taxis even accept payments made using a credit card.
T h e o nl y d o w n fa ll c o m e s w i t h r ai l t r av e l an d t h e f act tha t i t ca n be qui te exp e nsi ve an d slo w . Tw o s e r v i c e s s p an t h e c o n t i n e n t f rom coa st to coa st. The In di an Pacific tr a ve ls fro m S y d n e y o n t h e e as t c o as t to P erth on the west coast and c r o sse s A u str al i a’ s w e l l - k n o w n N u l l ar b o r P l a i n – the journ ey ta k es three day s a n d n ig hts. T h e G h an t r av e l s b e t w e e n A del a i de a n d D a rwi n a nd ru ns t akes tw o n ig hts. A u st ral i a ha s he a p s o f c o as t l i n e , i s l an d s , r i v e r s an d l a k es a nd a ra nge of v e s sel s t o u se a t yo u r c o n v e n i e n c e . S o w h y n o t t ak e to the wa ter a n d see the s tu nni ng Gr e a t B a r r ie r Re e f o n a d e e p - s e a f i s h i n g crui ser or ta k e a pa ddl e s treamer alo n g B r isba n e Ri v e r . You w o n’t b e a ble he lp b u t ap p r e c i at e t h e b e au t y o f thi s contra sti ng coun try re gardl ess o f w ha t m o d e o f t r an s p o r t y o u u s e al l t h e sa me.
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Dest inat ion s
Sydney
S
ydney is the largest, oldest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia home to two of the country’s famous landmarks: the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. The city is pleasantly located next to vast ocean coastline and golden beaches and proudly had the pleasure of hosting the Olympics in the new millennium.
The first attraction travellers usually flock to in Sydney tends to be the Sydney Harbour Bridge, known by locals as the ‘coat-hanger’ and we’re pretty sure you’ll find yourself here at one point. It took 1,400 workers over an eight year period to erect this striking 4.2 million pound steel arch bridge which stands 134 metres above the harbour and was officially opened in 1932.
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If you’re feeling adventurous, the Bridge Climb is definitely one of the most stimulating activities you will ever experience in your lifetime. Climb through catwalks and up ladders and stairs to be welcomed by a magnificent panoramic view of Sydney in all its glory – you can walk across all the way to the other side towering over the vehicles down below. But if you suffer from vertigo you should steer well away from the Bridge Climb as it isn’t for the faint-hearted. Another notable site is the Sydney Opera House which is considered as one of the 20th century’s great buildings and welcomes its doors to over 4.5 million tourists each year. It is one of the busiest performing arts centres in the world and was designed to resemble a ship at sea.
Take a trip to Australia’s most famous beach, Bondi Beach which can be found nestled between two rock headlands fifteen minutes from the city centre. Topless sunbathing is accepted here so don’t be shocked to find people bare all whilst sunbathing. The promenade is always brimming with modern day entertainment but the area still retains an element of historic sentiment with Aboriginal rock carvings on the northern and southern end of the beach. Words and descriptions don’t do this vibrant city enough justice so you’re just going to have to find out for yourself what makes this dynamic metropolis one of the world’s top ten cities to live in.
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Queensland
T
he world-renowned Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea can be found in the region of Queensland – this alone makes it a great place to visit. The Great Barrier Reef is the largest UNESCO world heritage area in the world covering an extraordinary 86 million acre region. This area of outstanding natural beauty is home to around 1,500 different species of fish, 400 different types of coral, many endangered species, plus more than 30 historic shipwrecks and numerous archaeological sites which originate from the Aborigine period.
On top of that, Queensland boasts a tropical climate, gorgeous beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, rainforests, friendly locals, relaxed atmosphere and a multitude of things to see and do – hence why it’s often called the ‘Sunshine State.’
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If you’re after exhilarating activities then Queensland is definitely the best place for the likes of bungee jumping, scuba-diving, white-water rafting, bushwalking, snorkelling, surfing, abseiling, horse riding and much more. If you’re a child at heart, you will have to pencil in a fun theme park visit in your itinerary. There’s four to choose from: Sea World, Movie World, Wet ‘N’ Wild and Dreamworld all located along the Gold Coast. The Sunshine Coast has miles and miles of beautiful untouched sandy beaches which are the perfect place for travellers to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Or why not pick up a new sport and your surf board whilst you’re at it and hitting the waves – surfing is all the rage in Australia so see for yourself why the invigorating sport is so popular amongst Australians.
Brisbane is the vibrant capital of Queensland and a laid-back city with a rich and diverse art, music and culture scene and all year-round weather. In recent times it has become one of the most desirable places to live in Australia so there’s no wonder why thousands of people pack up and move to Brissie each year. The cosmopolitan city is a mix of old and new – the Town Hall can be seen proudly standing in the midst of of modern monuments like the Gallery of Modern Art along the Brisbane River.
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Melbourne
M
elbourne is the cultural and fashion capital of Australia. The city’s fusion of modern and Victorian architecture, blend well together to create a multicultural entity. Melbourne is a very diverse and vibrant city and this can be seen spread through to its global food, entertainment and lively nightlife. The city has an overwhelming dedication and enthusiasm for sports ranging from cricket, football, rugby, horse racing and of course water sports. Port Philip Bay is the ideal location for sailing, windsurfing and kite surfing. Hot air ballooning proves very popular over the picturesque city of Melbourne or Yarra Valley.
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The Queen Victoria’s Market is the most popular place to find a bargain when it comes to shopping. It dates back to 1878 and ever since small traders and business owners operate there. Don’t be afraid to barter the price if you find something is less expensive than you find. There is also a Dairy Hall, Fish and Meat Market and Organic Market – you’ll find everything you need within close proximity. Federation Square is Melbourne’s unique landmarks and cultural precinct plus one of the most visited tourist attractions in the state of Victoria. It is home to The Ian Potter Centre, National Gallery of Victoria, the Centre for the Moving Image, the Australian Racing Museum and many different restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. The Melbourne Visitor Centre can also be found here so it’s worth paying a visit to help you plan what attractions and activities you’d like to see and do during your time there.
Pay, or should we say, take a free trip to the Melbourne Museum – Australia’s largest museum which houses an indoor rainforest, giant Rubik’s cube shaped Children’s Museum, the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, and displays featuring dinosaurs and insects and much more. For the most breath-taking 360-degree views of Melbourne, climb up to the observatory deck of the Eureka Skydeck 88 which is located on the 88th floor of Eureka Tower – that is if you don’t suffer from vertigo. If you’re gutsy enough you’ll love the thrill of The Edge experience – a glass cube that hangs from the side of the building and is suspended almost 984 feet above the ground.
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Perth
P
erth is the capital of Western Australia and a very cosmopolitan city. Founded by Captain James Stirling in 1829, it did not gain city status until 1856. Perth generally receives moderate rainfall but winters are relatively cool. Summers last from December until March and can be scorching but not devoid of rainfall.
Perth is renowned for the hosts of stars that have heralded from this great city. The recently deceased Heath Ledger and Sam Worthington (Star of Terminator 4 and Clash of the Titans) are just some of the great personalities that have impacted on Hollywood. British television viewers will also be surprised to know Perth is the home of Rolf Harris. The Western Academy of Performing Arts of Edith Cowan University has launched the career of Hugh Jackman, so students looking for a career in acting may be swayed by the great education standards here.
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On your travels you may be persuaded to visit the local sports team as Perth is decorated with an array of them. Perth is sports mad and you can watch football, cricket, rugby, Australia rules football among many others. The most famous teams are Perth Glory and the Western Warriors, both of football and cricket respectively. North American travellers need not be disheartened as Perth even has an ice Hockey and a basketball team!
With a heavy influx of English, Scottish and Irish immigrants in the 19th century, potatoes make up a heavy staple in this regions diet. But this has slowly started to change thanks to the influence of Italians, Greeks and Chinese who have now fused Perth’s local pallet with the likes of pasta, kebabs and fried rice over the past century.
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Outback
T
h e A u str a lia n O u t b ac k i s a l ar ge ar e a o f r e mote a n d wi l d l a n d whi ch co ve r s thr e e q u a r t e r s o f t h e c o n t i n e n t w i t h d ry deserts, dra ma ti c rock fo rm a tio n s, sa n d d u n e s , go r ge s , p l an t s an d v a ri ed n a ti v e Austra l i a n ani m a ls. The tr ue e s s e n c e o f Ab o r i gi n al c u l ture a n d heri ta ge ca n be exp e r ie n c e d a t its b e s t h e r e i n t h e O u t b ac k and i t prov es to be a n esca pe fro m the hu stle a n d b u s t l e o f t h e c i t i e s .
Fro m ca m e ls, k o a la s, d i n go e s , w al l ar o o s an d n u mba ts to un usua l repti l es l i ke t he tho r n y de vil an d f r i l l e d l i z ar d ar e am o n g the ecl ecti c ra n ge of w i l dl i fe tha t c a n b e fo u n d d o t t e d ar o u n d t h e O u t ba ck . They ha v e a da pted w el l t o t he ha r sh dr y c l i m at e o f t h e i r s u r r o u n d i n g s un l i k e huma ns. There are l ess tha n 6 0 , 0 0 0 p e o p l e l i v i n g i n t h e O u t b ac k .
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Trav e l Ar o u n d Au s t r al i a P l an T h e O ut ba c k – a lso k n o wn as t h e l as t f r o n t i e r o f Austra l i a , ba ck of bey ond o r be yo n d the b la ck s t u m p – i s d i v i d e d i n t o d if f eren t terri tori es such a s Ayers R o c k , A lic e Spr i n gs , P al m V al l e y , Ki n g Ca nyon, The Ol ga s a n d W e st MacD o n n e ll R a n g es . Ay e r s Ro c k – al s o k n o w n a s U l uru – i s a n e no rm o us sa n d sto n e r o c k f o r m at i o n s t an d i n g 1,14 2 f eet ta l l , whi ch the A b ori gi nes c o n side r e d to b e s ac r e d . I t i s a p o p u l ar a ttra cti on a n d n a tura l w onder t h a t tr a ve lle r s vi s i t w h e n c o m i n g t o t h e O u t ba ck . Al i ce Spri n gs i s rig h t bang in the m id d le o f Au s t r al i a an d h as a b o ta ni c ga rden , zoo, Abor igi nal c u ltu r e c e n tr e an d e n v i r o n m e n t al c o n s e r v ati on i n sti tute.
De v i l s Mar b le s C o n se r vat i o n Re s e r v e P ar k h as r o u n d , red gra ni te rock s that range fr o m tw e n ty i n c h e s t o t w e n t y f e e t i n s i ze. Accordi n g to Abor igi nal fo lk lo r e , the se r o c k s ar e t h e e ggs o f t h e r ai nbow serpen t. Ka k a du N a ti o nal Pa r k c o n sists o f m i l e s an d m i l e s o f r ai n f orest a n d a v a st wetla nd sy st em te a m in g w i t h w i l d l i f e an d an c i e n t r o c k si tes to di scov er. Li tchfi el d Na tio n a l Pa r k h as t e r m i t e m o u n d s , w at e r f a l l s a nd tropi ca l f ore s ts and a lso ha s the L o s t Ci t y , a gr o u p o f u n u s u al l y sha ped sa n dstone, for med o v e r m illio n s o f y e ar s t h r o u gh w i n d an d r ai n erosi on. T ours are a va ila b le fo r t h o s e w h o w i s h t o e x p l o r e e v e ry bi t of the Outba ck w ith t he gu ida n c e a n d k n o w l e d ge o f a q u al i f i e d t o ur gui de. Just ma k e s u re y o u b r in g p le n ty o f w at e r an d s n ac k s an d d r e s s a ppropri a tel y a s the O u t back t e n ds to g e t e x t r e m e l y h o t an d t h e l as t t h i ng you wa nt i s to be s tranded.
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 223
T r av e l Ar o u n d Au s t r al i a Pl a n
Nearby Islands
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h er e a r e a w ho p p i n g 8,2 2 2 i s l an d s i n an d ar oun d the borders of Aust ralia . The la r g e s t o f t h e s e ar e T as m an i a, Ka nga roo Isl a nd, Mel v i l l e I sl an d, Gr o o te Ey al n d t , B at h u r s t I s l an d , F r aser Isl a n d, F l i n ders Isl and, K in g Isla n d an d M o r n i n gt o n I s l an d . N ow of course, you won ’t be a ble to visit a l l t h o s e i s l an d s s o w e ’ v e n ar rowed i t down to a ha n dful tha t a r e w e ll- w o r t h t h e t r i p .
Kangar o o Isla n d , de sp i t e i t s n am e , f e at u r e s m o r e tha n i ts f a i r sha re of kangar o o s. Y o u ’ll find s e a l i o n s b as k i n g o n t h e bea ch a t Sea l Ba y a n d ko al a bea r s e a tin g e uc al y p t u s t r e e s i n H an s o n B a y, pi n k pel i ca n s hov eri ng t h ro ugh the sk y p lu s o t h e r w i l d l i f e r o am i n g t h i s i sl a n d. Thi s i sl a n d ha s hi st o ri c lig htho u se s, a m az i n g u n d e r gr o u n d c av e s a n d mi l es of l usci ous sec l uded b e a c he s, o n e o f w h i c h w as v o t e d ‘ Au s t r al i a ’s Best Bea ch’ – V i v onn e B ay . T he R e m a r k a b le Ro c k s i s t r u l y a r e m ar k abl e na tura l a ttra cti on to vi si t i n K a n g a r o o Isla n d – t h e u n u s u al r o c k s h ave been sha ped by erosi on fro m t h e w in d a n d se a s p r ay .
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P h il i p I sl an d is ho m e to Au s t r al i a’ s M o t o r c y c l e G r and P ri x C i rcui t, contr a st i ng wild life su c h as p e n gu i n s , k o al as , w at e r b i rds a n d potoroos a nd g r e at beac he s to sw im , s u r f an d f i s h f r o m . T ak e a crui se to Sea l R ock s w h ere yo u’ll c o m e a c r o ss t h e l ar ge s t c o l o n y o f f u r s ea l s i n Austra l i a or w a nder t h r o u g h the k o a l a c o n s e r v at i o n c e n t r e t o s e e k oa l a s i n thei r na tura l habi t at s. A n d tha t’s n o t al l , y o u w i l l h av e t h e cha n ce to see the peng u in p arad e w he n little p e n gu i n s c o m e as h o r e at s u nset i n l a rge groups, this i s o ne o f the m a n y at t r ac t i o n s P h i l i p I s l an d h a s to prov i de i ts v i si tors.
T h e W o rl d H e r ita g e liste d F r as e r I s l an d i s t h e w o r l d ’s l a rgest sa nd i sl a n d a n d a favo u r ite w ith ba ck p ac k e r s . T h e b e s t w ay t o expl ore thi s pl a ce i s u s ing a 4WD ( fo u r w he el d r i v e ) an d d r i v i n g o n t h e 7 5 mi l e bea ch l i k e a h ighw ay . Visit the histo r i c M ah e n o s h i p w r e c k , h i k e through the ra i n f orest p a st kang a r o o s, w a lla b ie s an d p o s s u m s an d s p o t h umpba ck wha l es f rom In di an Head – the a c tivi t i e s ar e e n d l e s s . O n Ki ng Isla n d yo u c a n e x p l o r e s h i p w r e c k s , go game f i shi n g a n d ta ste the i sl and’s r e n o w n e d a i r y p r o d u c t s . F l i n d e r s I s l and i s the pl a ce f or un s po i l ed beac he s, to c lim b gr an i t e m o u n t ai n s an d h unt f or a Ki l l i ecra n k i e dia mo nd o r B r u n y Isla n d m ay b e m o r e y o u r s c e n e i f you’re f ond of dol p h ins and e n jo y hik in g an d w h e r e b e t t e r t h an al o n g thi s i sl a nd’s dra ma tic cl i ffs.
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VISA o yo u w ish to w or k i n Au s t r al i a? We l l f r an k l y, why woul dn’t you? S u n , se a a n d su r f – t h e m ai n at t r ac t i o n s t ha t ma k e thi s coun try a n ap p e a lin g p la c e t o l i v e an d w o r k . B u t b e f o r e you book your f l i ght an d p a c k yo u r s u i t c as e y o u n e e d t o e n s u r e y ou ha v e the ri ght v i sa to wor k the r e .
A n Aust ra lia n w o r k visa i s t h e m o s t s o u gh t af t e r i n the worl d – i t ca n be confusi ng a n d tim e -c o ns u m i n g t o u n d e r s t an d al l the di f f erent types of v i s a s av ai l ab le b u t it n e e d n o t b e s o c o m p l i c at e d . We ’ re on ha nd to gi v e you the run-dow n o n A u str a l i an w o r k i n g v i s as an d o u t li ne some of the recent changes ma d e . T h ere are t w o m a in typ e s o f Au s t r al i an w o r k i n g v i sa s: G enera l Sk i l l ed Mi g r at i o n an d W o r k in g H o l i d ay .
G e n e r al Skil l e d Migration Visa Unde
226 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
r the Aust ralia Migr n Gen ation eral S P r ogram dent kil , t h e Ski Indep provi des w l l e d M i en g ork t skill r a tion o ind s and i v Vis Aust quali idual ralia f s icatio with ’s sk tribu n s i that ll sho te to fil rtage their econo and c l my. onThis visa al in th e cou lows perm ntry plyin with anent resi g for the op dency year citize tion stay. nship of ap an oc T a f h t e e r a fo appli cupat c u io a appro r ved o n or skil nt must h l cc a grati on (S upations on the lis ve t o fo ki fer to table lled Occu r skilled m f ) and using patio in i a s L poi ist ini awar ded i nts syste tially ass – rem n essed age, Engl different . Points a ish la c work ngua ategories re exper ge ab like ience ility . and
Au s t r al i a V i s a C h an ge s
Sim p l y put , a p p lic a n ts sho u l d b e o v e r 18 y e ar s o l d b u t n o t yo unger tha n 45 , ha ve go o d E n gl i s h l an gu age s k i l l s a n d hav e rel eva n t the w o r k e x p e r i e n c e an d s k i l l s r e q u i red f o r the o cc up a tio n . It is then yo u r r e sp o n sib ili t y t o c o n t ac t t h e r e l e v an t as s e s s ing aut ho r ity fo r yo u r n o m i n at e d o c c u p at i o n t o o b ta in a ski l l s a sse ssm e n t. E ac h as s e s s i n g au t h o r i t y h a s it s o wn pr o c e d u r e s, tim e f r am e s an d f e e s s o y o u ar e s tron gl y adv ise d to c o n ta ct t h e r e l e v an t as s e s s i n g au th or ity wel l be fo r e yo u in ten d t o l o d ge y o u r ap p l i c at i o n to a r range yo u r sk ills a sse s s m e n t . O nce yo u hav e ha d yo u r sk i l l s as s e s s e d an d t h e v i s a h a s b e e n grant ed it d o e s n o t n ec e s s ar i l y m e an y o u c an b e e m p loy ed i n yo u r o c c u p a tion i n a p ar t i c u l ar s t at e o r t err i tory o f Aus tr a lia - so m e s t at e s h av e p ar t i c u l ar l i c e n sin g or regi str a tio n r e q u ir em e n t s f o r a n u m b e r o f o c c u pa tion s .
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There are 3 mand atory reThere ment are three require quire s manda to gettory this spements to get this specifi c visa: cific visa:
t be s u m r ploye m ene z e i t h i C - t and n o i t a illed igr k s m y m r I nt of mpora e e er to t m y t f o r o l a p r p e e m b ng e the D num r of i e r c y b o i b s f m i n d c u o e a n a sp a spe y r f r approv o s o f i f t r y to ) a e t s C i d c r o A o I a t p D n d a ( I ial c ship y nee ers. c e k n h r a t o n r w i o s s e f oversea ed as a spon ncluding th i . rov be app equirements ndertakings r u DIAC’s sponsorship he meet t
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needs r e y o l mp emt - the e a h t ill wi f on, o i t t t a p n a u ey w n occ h a ant o s m t n g e o t i n t i a i l d st re e pos nclu h u i t m d e l t o y a adese h r n s h i t e t r m d d h o t n n to n nal a kills ent a o s d i alai s s s m s e e u r m f o u m y r i r inim pora iate p m a min c for o s a s t y e s d r e i a a a l , m p l a which lso be rage s n Bussiona e a e v f t o a s r t u p l, nt m recen ralia a t t c s s i o ageria l u p A m p the the h The a y t b i . w d n e a e t m lcula rdanc a o c c c s a e e ploy ry in m e n a li Austra tatistics. f s reau o
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p lic a n t n e e d s t o d e m o n s t r at e t h at t h e y ha v e the sk i l l s to m a tc h the n o m i n at e d v ac an c y an d s at i sf y certa i n hea l th a n d c ha r a c t e r r e q u i r e m e n t s an d s i n c e 2 007 certa i n v i sa a p p lic a n ts n o w n e e d t o m e e t t h e E n gl i s h l a n gua ge req u ir e m e n ts .
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relat i parti ve living c partn ipating in Austr y s a appl er and/o tate or t lia or ob ou can b ic er r dep e t ende ritory g ain a no sponsor they ant are e entit n o m a led t t childr vernmen ination d by a acter re also en of requ o liv t f requ i e r the s agency. rom a irem ed to and ucce ents work satis ssfu Any . You i f n y l vis Aust mus certa t hav r able i a n lia b a heal e suf to w ut th an ork i ficie Eng d ch n li n arnati sh. Gen Austral t Englis on ia e h lan to as al Engl rally, yo . This is kn guage a sess ish L u wi bi l Eng o lish your En anguag l be requ wn as ‘ lity to b voca e Tes glish may e ired find t t i t b i l o out i o n a e n ngu g Sy sit t requ al’ lish f yo a h i s g r e t e e em ( u b I d a IELT nternate y contac r occupa for cert bility. S d occ t a t A hi gher ) test upat ing the ion requ in occup asse ion. level ssin ires a hi ations. of gher g au You thori c l ty fo evel of E an ngr yo ur n omi-
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pror e k r o ed w l l i k s er – w t e s n i g a e duced tion R o c orkr e t w l e n d i S e l t y l l i n igra recent les sk M b a a d i l e n l their a e l r i d h r k c o i S c h e Aust e w r led th ia to n of ect – l l l o e i a a s c r S t s l e s l m r i u gra Exp to A s Sk n a g a n n i g w t n o a i also kn sted in migr a by submitt o des re t i e v t n n o d i i e l s s er skil e deci a h r t 012. o 2 f g n s y i l l i w u a J o det foll on 1 I). n i e O s t E a ( h b eing g t a b s u t e o a r n r e D i b t t g s n I teres chin t m wa n e i a t r s M i y e l l ng or s h i i t t k r a e r S t g This e s i regi ion th ed) m n s r a s o c n emi s a s n i m t l o n a p r a s t com r Aus mig (non g m t o n n r i e f d d n a Inte ed vis ndepen l i l ts. i r n o k e f s m d a n e t r r gove selec on fo i y t r a o t n i i r om d ter n a seek n e t a or st s r e y o l p
Working Ho l i d ay V i s a T h e W o r k in g H o li d a y V is a ( W H V ) p e r m it s a n y o n th e a g e o f 1 8 y e t e over b e lo w th e a g e o f 3 1 to li v e , w o r k tr a v e l in A u s tr a and li a f o r tw e lv e m o n th s w it h a n o p p o r tu n it y to e x te n d it f o r a n a d d it io n a l tw e lv e m o n th s year WHV) by c (second o m p le ti n g th r e e m o n th Y o u m a y le a v e a s of seasonal wo n d r e -e n te r A u s tr rk. a li a a s m a n y ti m y o u w is h d u r in g es as th is ti m e . G a p -y e a r s tu d e n ts u s u a p p ly f o r th is v is a ll y a. You must be a pa s s p o r t h o ld e r f r o m o n e o f th e f o ll c o u n tr ie s : U n it e o w in g d K in g d o m , U S A , B e lg iu m , A r g e n ti B a n g la d e s h , C a n na, a d a , C h il e , C y p r us, Denmark, Es F in la n d , F r a n c e to n ia , , Germany, Hon g K o n g , In d o n e s ia , Ir a Ir e la n d , It a ly , Ja n, p a n , R e p u b li c o f K o r e a , M a la y s ia ta , N e th e r la n d s , , M a lNorway, Papua N e w G u in e a , S w e d T a iw a n , T h a il a n en, d a n d T u r k e y to b e a b le to a p p ly f o r W o r k in g H o li d a th e y v is a . Y o u c a n n o t w o r k f o r th e e m p lo y e r f o r m o same r e th a n s ix m o n th s a n d cannot engage s tu d y o r tr a in in g f o r m o r e th a n in f o u r m o n th s . 230 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
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Tr a ditio n a lly , i n o r d e r t o ge t a s e c o n d yea r W ork i n g H o lid a y Visa y o u w o u l d h av e t o c o m p l e t e three months of sp e c ifie d w o r k i n r e gi o n al Au s t r al i a w h i l st on your f i rst w o r k in g ho li d ay i n e i t h e r o n e o f t h e s e i ndustri es: pl a n t a n d a n im a l c u l t i v at i o n s , f i s h i n g an d p ea rl i ng, tree fr a m in g a n d f e l l i n g, m i n i n g o r c o n s t r u cti on. B u t the se r e q u i r e m e n t s h av e n o w b e e n c h a nged. In stea d the se r u le s wi l l ap p l y t o j o b s i n ar e as s u ch a s resi den tia l a n d n o n - r e s i d e n t i al b u i l d i n g c o n s t ructi on, prov i ded the w o r k is co n d u c t e d i n r e gi o n al ar e as of Austra l i a a n d c o m p le te d d u r i n g t h e f i r s t 12 m o n t h s o f thei r W HV .
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iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 231
S u r f i n g I n Au s t r al i a
Surfing Holiday In Australia
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n Aust ra lia su r fin g i s n o t j u s t a s p o r t , i t ’ s a w ay of l i fe. Th is p a ssio n c o m b i n e d w i t h a s p o r t y an d f un a tmo sph er e is se c o n d to n o n e s o i t ’ s n o w o n d e r Au s tra l i a i s h o m e to the g r e a te s t w av e s o n t h e e ar t h an d s u rf ers fro m all o ve r the w o r ld t ak e t o t h e m . C h al l e n ge y oursel f wh ilst ha vin g the o p p o r t u n i t y t o m e e t n e w p eopl e al l t he while ha vin g a n am az i n g t i m e as y o u t ak e to t he wave s o n the b e a ut i f u l c o as t l i n e s o f Au s t r al i a. T he so uth c o a st is the m ai n s u r f i n g ar e a. T h e f amous Bel l s B e a c h is a ho tsp o t w i t h i t s v ar i e t y o f w av e s . T he l o c a tio n is ho m e t o t h e an n u al Ri p C u r l P r o compet i t i o n whe r e su r fe r s can p u t t h e i r s k i l l s t o t h e t e st i n a fri endl y a n d c o m p e ti t i v e e v e n t . Wh e n y o u ’ r e n o t surf i ng wh y n o t r e la x o n t h e l o n g go l d e n b e ac h e s , s i ppi n g a del i c io u s c o c k ta il wh i l s t e at i n g f r e s h f o o d . N o t to ment i o n yo u ’ll be a mo n gs t l i k e - m i n d e d p e o p l e w i th the beaut i ful su n a n d c le ar b l u e s k i e s .
232 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
S u r f i n g I n Au s t r al i a
T h e w est c o a st bo a sts o f b e i n g a p l ac e w h e r e s u r f e r s ca n en joy the wa v es i n a mo re p ea c e fu l e n vir o n me n t w i t h s u n - k i s s e d c o as t li nes. Bei n g home to the p o p ul ar c ity o f Pe r th , t h i s i s o n e o f t h e w o r l d ’ s grea test surf i n g ci ti es. So wh y no t in d u lg e in t h e w o r l d ’ s m o s t r e m o t e c ap i ta l ci ty wi th i ts ca l min g c i t y atm o sp he r e . T h e east co a st o f A u str a l i a o f f e r s l e ge n d ar y s p o t s s uch a s Ki rra a n d Burle igh Head s. The c o a st i s s o f an t as t i c i t h as b e e n a tra i ni ng groun d f or p re v i o us w o r ld c ha m p io ns . Al l t h e r e s i d e n t i al ar e as here, l i k e tha t of Q u eensl an d, g e t p le n ty o f at t e n t i o n w i t h t h e i r b r i l l ia nt a ttra cti on s i n a v ibe l i ke n o o the r . C he c k o u t t h e c o l o u r f u l r e e f s , p o i nts of a ttra cti on s a nd be ac h break s. The w e a th e r i s n o t h i n g l e s s t h an b e auti f ul a n d the sea temp e rat ure i s w a r m , e n tic ing as i t s o u n d s .
Su r fin g in Au s t r al i a c an b e t au gh t t o peopl e of a l l wa l k s of l i f e a n d a bilities i n al l l o c at i o n s . T h e r e i s a l wa ys somethi n g you’l l lo ve a b o u t s u r f i n g, w h e t h e r i t ’ s w at c h i ng peopl e do ma gni f i cent stu n ts to e nj o y i n g t h e p e ac e f u l t r an q u i l l i ty of the wa rm wa te r s w hilst gaz i n g at t h e s t u n n i n g h o r i zon on your boa rd. W i th the u n iq u e t h r i l l y o u ’ l l ge t f r o m s u r f i ng, you’l l wa nt to sta y i n A u str a lia an d k e e p i t u p .
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S t u d y iAu n gs tI n r alAu i a s t r al i a
Studying
in Australia
G
o in g b ac k t o t h e c o n c e p t o f s t u d y i ng i n a pl a ce tha t do e s n ’ t r e q u i r e E n gl i s h s p e ak e r s to get too f a r outsid e t h e i r l an gu age c o m f o r t z o ne, we ha v e a nother En gl i s h - s p e ak i n g c o u n t r y o n o ur l i st – Austra l i a . A n d as w i t h t h e U n i t e d K i n gd om, a l though Austr a l i an E n gl i s h r e al l y d o e s h ave i ts own i ndi v i du a l l an gu age q u al i t i e s , i t ’ s c e rta i nl y ea si er to not ha ve to w o r r y a b o u t l e ar n i n g an e n t i r e l y d i f f eren t l a n gua ge al to g e the r . Th e Ma r in e B io l o gy an d T e r r e s t r i al E c o l o gy P rogra m i s a n o p p o r tu n ity to co n t r i b u t e t o t h e w o r l d - c l as s resea rch tha t i s c o n d u c te d o n su c h s u b j e c t s as c o r al r e e f s , e nv i ronmen ta l l yfr ie n d ly c le a n b e ac h e s , s al t m ar s h e s an d ma ny more a t the p r o g r a m s’ e x c e ll e n t r e s e ar c h s t at i o n s an d t ea chi n g f a ci l i ti es. Th e p r o g r a m fe a t u r e s l e c t u r e r s , l ab o r at o r y s tudi es, a nd
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Th w an pr ca
W y th un sm ro po
Su r fin g In Au s S tAu u dsyt irn algi aI n Au s t r al i a tra l i a
x te ns iv e fi el d stu dy a t the He r o n I s l an d Re s e ar c h S t at i on on the G rea t Ba r ie r Re e f, t he M o r e to n B a y R e s e ar c h S t at i o n , an d o t h e r l oca ti on s i n coa sta l Q u e e ns land.
h e A u s tral i an In stitu te o f M ar i n e S c i e n c e o f f e r s an o u t sta ndi ng course h e r e yo u can l e a r n a ll a bo u t t h e aq u at i c w o r l d ; e x p l o r i ng un i que pl a n t l i f e n d 4 ,000 fi sh typ e s o f the 2 2 ,0 0 0 k n o w n w o r l d w i d e . T h i s i s ta ught through rac tica l researc h o f the w o r ld f am o u s G r e at B ar r i e r Re e f , a s wel l a s theoreti a l stu d y.
W h i ls t yo u’re on a br e a k fr o m s t u d y i n g, t h e r e ar e h u n d r eds of a cti v i ti es f or ou t o indul ge in . A t the Sy d n e y Aq u ar i u m , m ar i n e e n thusi a sts ca n proceed h ro ug h t h e h ug e sha r k ja w s en t r an c e , w h i c h w i l l l e ad y ou i n to a worl d of n d e r w at er t un n e ls; in ha bited b y 11,0 0 0 f as c i n at i n g s e a crea tures. W i th a m a l l- g ro up walk in g to u r , you w i l l d i s c o v e r t h e h i d d e n secrets of Mel bourne’s oa d s a nd arcad e s, im m e r sin g y o u i n t h e h e r i t age an d c ul ture of thi s cosmo ol i ta n c i t y,
Co ur se fe e s va r y f r o m $ 4 ,0 0 0 t o $ 24 ,0 0 0 , d e pen di n g on the ti me and lo c a tio n yo u c h o s e t o s t u d y at . T h e c o s t of l i v i n g i n Austra l i a c a n b e e x p e n siv e , b u t i t ’ s s i m p l e t o ge t a j ob i n order pi ck up so m e e x tr a c a sh. S y d n e y a n d M e lb o u r n e ar e t w o o f t h e m o r e p opul a r ci ti es i n w hi ch to stu dy, bu t Au s t r al i a i s a b i g c o u n t ry. Its huge centra l regio n isn ’t a n ypl ac e y o u ’ r e go i n g t o f i n d a un i v ersi ty, but the w este r n c ity o f Per t h i s an o p t i o n i f y o u w an t to v enture beyond w her e m o st stu de n t s go . I f y o u ’ r e s t u d y i n g ma ri ne bi ol ogy, i t i s w i se to sta y n e a r t o t h e G r e at B ar r i e r Re e f . Ov era l l , students of just a b o u t a n y su b j e c t c an f i n d l o t s t o e n j o y i n Austra l i a .
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 235
N e w Z e al an d
d w e N alan e Z
l, remote l a m s e b y ma hes well c n u p t i t u opulated b p y l n ish i d h t n a l and t u o ith its w t h g i e w s above it tdoor
d n a l a e Z ew
N
al ou c i g a ne m i , h y s r n e u n s e c s s riou o l g , s e c of its n o experien i t a r eleb c o Kiwi g e o t v i e s m i s t e s a n d i m p rM a u r i p e o p l e . S o n o w i t ’ e p a r t y . s join th d n a indigenou a k a arn the H e l , g n i t t o sp
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Mil ford Sound R udyard K ip lin g o n c e c al l e d t h i s t h e “e ighth Wond e r of t h e W orld� . The to w e r i n g m o u n t ai n s , an d s t e ep v a l l eys of dense n a tive fo r e st o n t h e S t at e H i gh w ay 9 4 o p e ns up i nto the deep, na r r o w fio r d o f M i l f o r d S o u n d w i t h M i t r e P ea k ri si ng m ajest i c a lly fr o m the w at e r t o gi v e y o u o n e o f t h e g rea test v iews i n t he w o r ld. Go k ay ak i n g an d e x p l o r e t h e p assa ge tha t le ads 1 0 mile s to the o pe n s e a, o r t ak e an o v e r n i gh t crui se on the so und s m a r ve llin g a t t h e s e al s an d p e n gu i n s , a nd spotti n g the bo t t l en o se d o lp hin s t h at o f t e n b o w - r i d e t h e p as s engers boa ts.
Si m pl y breathtaking.
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N e w Z e al an d
We l l ingt on et of s e h t and n o s k c Ja he T r e t . e P s g s, as e of n m i o h R e h e g location ed h t n is t o t g f n o i min reat l d c i Well f s r e k r o h ee wo isit t gy L s v o l o i n t r ore. a t t c e m y g s s y r l a e l n t v i a fan nd m ovie lo where you w a m 9 d t r much c a i o r h , s t e s e v s i i i a d C , D t to re r i e a s t a h i t e t v a , W v a d well as am behind A New Zealan istory with tive a v h e o f t i n o r e Mao the in by th f l City o t ry. a i a t e s i t i u p s t v a c a t d C n As the offer. Get a museum, an Wildlife Sa u. n al rori t yo a n a K h e more o - the nation c h ly en rve, t u e a r s t p e a r l l P e i Te ton w natur g y n t i i l c l t, We inner o n r o ut Film n
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This
Chri
stch
urch vibra nt, m conte ultic mpora ultur stay. ry city Visit t al an is wel he out Galler d l wor sta y,
nding Hagle th an Garde y overni C P h ark an ristch ns bef ght urch A d the i ore sa of bar rt mpl ncredi s a ble Bo to ride nd restaur ing one of tanica the va ants. the Tr l s W t anzAl top ra a h r e r n a ys yo il pi drama journeys in ne Train, v u leave, be s ote ti u t farml cally differ he world tak d one of th re an e ent sc enery ing you thr drama ds of Cante ou fr rbury ti Plains om the patc gh pristin c Southern hwork Alps, e rain before and into th forest e g of the West C liding into the oast.
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 239
N e w Z e al an d
Coronet Peak so that s n o s a e s s it o t s t p a y ad in t o N e w Z e a la n d e a s il ly s s le t r o f f e n r u t s t in a t io n s u m m e r h ik in g d e s ers and
ki s r o f s d n u o r g y winter pla e w in t e r h t g in r u d it is v u o y s n o w b o a r d e r s . If d the Southern
A lp s in o u w il l f y r e b o t c O o t e n Ju f g from in g n a months o r in a r r e t r e t r o ll e r c o a s r la u c a t c e p to s e h r u it s w e b l il w awash t a h t s mond run ia D k c la B o t s e p lo b e g in n e r s g o in g . e n li a n e r d a e h t t e g
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New Z ealand compr is an Roun ising i s l a d Up nd cou of two Wheth n try main er you l a tr ndma South sses. Island avel to the North , or ev island or the en the s surr o numer experi ous sm ence t unding, yo u h aller e will n same this a e holida v grand y twic er e – ma visit desti king nat ove
ion t r and o over again .
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Tour the set of The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings in New Zealand T o u r T h e S e t O f T h e H o b b i t & LOTR
e real h t t i s i v urs to o t , s a resque m u t t s c i i r p h e C h t s ie set bit’ thi siting i v b o o V H m . e e y r h t i r T h e ngs’ s ase of ‘ ot prop i e h l R e g r e n e h i t h t om. f m r o o f c d e ith e r b s o o e L o r h e a arth’ he ‘Th urs to c o t f o y t ‘Middle E d village where t th plen i n w a , l k a e n i Z urs for ou th o New t y t n n e a r h e t sier en diff v e l there’s e , s e r sits, is ea e m f i f t o d e get an websit d l u a i b rsion c i r u f c u f o x o e y ’ s g r n n o u i scinat nding e biton to a p f b e o d D H e ‘ d . e i e h u T hour g everyon o n i w t c i a t a l l ering a asy fan t f f n o a t f s o d i ed the av with m . m e l e i g n f o a l ) ’ y l t i r i e v b v re the The Hob ‘ d a tour fo set and views of n a he Kai t y h g t o l a i e r t e n e ’ h t lies b a e Rings around t h h t t rfect e a f t p o a e d h r m t o a t s L a a e of M of ‘The arm w f g r a o r l t e l c i d e v r n i l a e. The l d x a ( k e i l l m n A a s o , s e s g k h m t c n the fil t setti nes in Peter Ja f n e i o c a s s oamin u r e n r q e a i f h h d t s n d f a s n o u a c r views urists o a l t the famo . With its idylli u s g fo c e i a b t ‘ m c o f e c o p l e s d s w r e e r o mai rang ow the farmland und the village f se hobbits are sca Baggins dn aro becau Bilbo y n l i e a t t a choice an uests on a drive r e n c u t a g Unfor st see s u . e j e k d y a i t a s r y m r u t to n coun but you e e e r n o g e d e s n hills a you’ll e e t res. u n t a r n e a v u d g a t n your we can’ o s e e r t e th hiding in
W
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To u r T h e S e t O f T h e H o b b i t & LOTR The hobbit s of the sh ire have k fer a view indly lean ing of the t their hom hobbits ho props and es for our m es and hol furniture pleasure s e s u . You’ll s sed in the farm, you o all tours ee just how film still also have ofl the magic ie within the opport around th al live, as the sets. A unity to c e scenic su the uddle and s the set is rrounding b l o o t cated on a s. tle feed th e pet lamb The tours s that frol typically ic end or beg your (hob i n bit) feet u at ‘The Sh p and enjo where you y some tea ires Rest’, a tranqu can apprec il cafe wh and a tas iate the vi with hobb ere you ca ty meal. ews that l it interior n put T h i e e cafe boast inspired r in front o lunch and s e f s a y t bal ou roo di ing and a nner but if you’re n ms. ‘The Shires Re and two entertainm cony fternoon t st’ menu ot hungry ent rooms i ea and ni n f c o l r u des breakf a full mea bbles men ast, l the cafe u. also offers a morn-
i-
ng olk’
174 for £ o t r u o t d a standar r o visit f e 4 n i 3 l £ n o n e k e o nd to bo nge betw a a r e l s b r a u l o i t a e v for th e tours a h t f o t s i l l For a ful . r here. u o e t t i e s t b a e v w i r ’ p s a iton tour b b o ‘H l a i c the offi
Ti c k e t s
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asia
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e p e’s
J ap an
Tokyo
odzilla, a G d n a n o ve us Pokém a g t a ining, to say th a y rt tr n te u n o e c d e n a th y g n tin e vi d in ’t ou shouldn f Japan, Tokyo is o l ita p a c e th , e tiv ova visit. Unique and inn the least. y-bans and a R a lic p re e th ll a at, you can find re g is o irls, Gwen y g k ku o ju T ra a H n e i tiv a g re c Shoppin ll the colourfully a y b d ire sp in t e g Harajuku ’s then d n id a sa h s is a w u ve yo ra s b g s a a b ’t r designe shion, but aren fa to in g g enjoyable; lin in b p b p a o d y sh c n ke a fa m u d yo n If a ch. ish and modern yl st re a Stefani loves s o mu s re o st ola in fridges. se e -C n a a c p o Ja C l f a o in s n rig a o c e e h T lik isplayed in racks hunt out a Uniqlo. d re a d n a rs ja ic st yed in pla tee-shirts are displa like plastic in e st ta d n a p a e h c dle. They may be o o n you may n e so m o ra ky e th To is in n id a vo a p Ja ’re impossible to y e h T . n ve The food of a e h e r Shinjuku. The lik a e e n st i ta a y sh e u th M , n a ya n p e Ja M in of the city visit le o other countries but h w ts of katsuo e in th h in ith s w le d d n o a o n it) st fru e s u b the (a Japanese citr zu yu ith as well indulge! For w s le d o o n k their signature o o c i a sh u M t a fs e h c (skipjack tuna).
Y
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J ap an
We’d think it damn rig ht rude if y would you ou don’t sa r muscles. mple an O T h e y are the p Tokyo. The nsen- a y are usuall er fect plac hot spring y et spread ove an afterno spa- and s on in. Let t r a beautifu o relax and you ’ll fin o d them eve he thermal l rural area water do it r a y w n h d are a pe s magic. r fect place ere in For someth to waste ing that lo completely different, the city ru oks in ns a ‘Ha backstreet t he sup unted s, spotting e r natur areas you Tokyo’ around the al. On t may have tour city. If that h e tour you missed whe isn’t enoug that takes e x plore the c n you hav h to spook you on a t ity ’s e t a y ri p o ken a prev u, join the ‘S to Oiwa In you can’t m ious stroll ari Tamiya hinjuku Gho ake it up. Jinja, home s t s a nd Demon to the noto s’ tour ri o us violent g We couldn host Oiwa’t resist men t ion bigges t Ferr ing a typical tourist a ttraction fo is whe kuoka’s Ma ry el in Japan rinoa City s . Bright blu ou to revel in whilst in hopping d e and 115 Tokyo; the istrict and it s begging meters high to be expe , it sits in Fu rienced.
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S t u d y i n g I n J ap an
Studying in Japan
ience fiction sc ir e th d n a s n o o rt ous for anime ca m fa re cated o m u is d n e a p s Ja a ys h a d y a w o he countr t , n t would seem that n tio a c u d e to t, their growing s e ye m r e o c tt e it B n . e h s w r t u e b n lla dinosaur Godzi Prize win l e b o N t s e fin e to study here. tim t c e rf e p some of the e th it s l expansion make ra ltu u c d n a ic m o n eco school will only e g a u g n la se e n a p ar or less) at a Ja ye e n (o application e h e T t. m n i e t d u t st r e a tim ll p to become a fu h is Studying w u yo re unable if l a u ta vi yo is l, fu sa ss vi e t c n c e d su u e st but a eir sponsor. Onc th s a n tio require a tourist visa itu st in l a iversity you are n n u tio r a o c l u o d o e h n sc a s e st th e u m ire permission fro u q c for a student visa req a u f students. o yo t u ss o le l n u tia n n a te p o p Ja st in o time d to get the utm n a s ie d to work during your u st m fro n tio avoid distrac studying at. This is to rsity is four years e iv n U n a p Ja y n a t degree a e t a u r courses are d la u a p o r p g st r o e m e d h T n . u last for six years y c a rm a A regular h p d n a y tr medicine, dentis counting. c a d n a ss whereas degrees in e n si u b , w nces such as la ie sc l ia c so e th in d n fou n government ig re fo d n a d e c n a rships, privately fin la o h sc s £1,000 a n d ru n t u n e ro m a rn st o ve c o g ill w se e e Japan d master’s degre n a s e fe ir In terms of cost, the e th d n fu s for students to e m m ra g ro p d re so n spo month.
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Japan is ren owned for e ntertaining Tournamen cro ts last for 1 5 days and wds with their own bra Tokyo, Osa nd of sport, are held in ka and Na sumo w ‘sumo stad goya. iums’ aroun restlin d t g. h e c ountr y in cit For a glimp se of Japa ie s such as nese histor countr y are y the more than worth a vis legendar y temples th easier than it. at you think a s most temp Finding yo are found ever ywhe re around ur in les are free the n t o e visit in Toky r Bu There is no o. ddha thing like c is elebrating festiva a nd no one ls does it be which involv are held frequently o tter than t ver the sum es numerou he Japane mer and th s musicians se. Heap e most pop , dancers, fl s of oats and fi ular is the ‘K reworks. andra Mat suri ’
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Ch i n a
China W
nd pandas? a g in c n a d n o g ra d t its food, traditional r fo t hat is China withou u b d n la g n E in rience all this natural habitat, Sure, you can expe ir e th in s a d n a p e to see th Chinese food and tiful countr y. u a e b , g in d n u o st a is you need to be in th during Chinese is e c n a d n o g ra d atch a during their a in The best time to c h C in g in e B . ry a nuary-early Febru Ja f o d n ighlight of e h e e th th t a is r a e c n a d New Ye n o yway. The drag n a r, la u c ta c e sp inese festival all h is C y n a t a next year e c n a rm u catch a perfo yo t u b boat race? s n n o tio g ra ra b d le a e h tc a the c w t o into sports why n re o m very year ’re e u l’ yo a If iv . st d n Fe u t a o B n year ro o hai holds a ‘Drag g n a h S , se e in h C tre stage which n lly e c s ke ta Traditiona rt o sp e re the competitiv e h w r e m ything you ’ve m n a su e e lik th g g in th o durin n is t l atmosphere tha u rf u lo o c t h rig b a s feature seen before.
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Ch i n a
ny corner a rn u T . it r fo ht countr y g ri e itional th d in a e tr ’r u e s o y e , in g ts or if you h c in C x e ff la a e re t e n e e k s li ta l s l ’l e in u l tonics for g and yo a When you fe in ij rb e e B h y taking f c e o n th t fa f e u o e o y tr y s n If a h . p ig d l then pick u commende il re in the busy h e ’r ly arly in u h e o i ig y h a If h e . g m p n o o a c h h s s S y e in p or massag ’s Square le re p tu o c medicine thera e n P u r p o u c rk d to learn a a te P e s i s a re e ih in te e h in B C e ’s , ’r g g u n ad to Beji sport. If yo fancy relaxin e e h th n e g th in i c h ti C c i ra nal Ta ers p nd then. h io a c it a d re e a te tr r th io in u n rt o e y a s p ’ll see the ey ’ll teach u th o y re re e h e h w w n o g s the mornin iors for a les n e s nd fortune e a r th u k o s s a d n to a t te e g rolls, swe don’t hesita g e , y ditional’ e u ra s ‘t p a o r h c fo ; d o o s Americans ut Chinese fo e o th b eat a y a u b w o o y d n e n k c e u n h o e y u W fl g . in in en heavily it originated e b re Forget everyth e ll d will h a o w e fo m v o e a fr h h T s d e o t. h e fo is ff ed enjoy the hinese bu C to a e s d cookies, thes n n e fi s ’t s n e up, Kung o k o w a s m u le o ly d y n o i o o a n it h , g e u n eals includ ng or Sha m o Chinese men K te g ri hinese n u C o o v H e , h fa g T c in . ti ij e n e k e B a th c in u n l ssert; moo staurant; a e re d r y Chinese mea n fo a d in n a is ial dishes. k it c c u w e d o p s h g u e in s o k e y e th p to r ; be served hanghai fo h of Beijing S is d in rk g a n u m F e i d a a T the tr opular Din p e th pao chicken, to d a ooks so he c l u rf e d n o w are Nowadays, Giant Pandas are predicted to be extinct in the year 2045. They might not be around for much longer despite desperate efforts by the WWF so go and see them as soon as you can. The national bear of China, the Yangtze Basin region holds the panda’s primary habitat but the panda breeding and research centre in Chengdu is where you can visit these fascinating bears on a day trip to the mountain sanctuary.
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TEFL China
Teaching Englis
as a Foreign Langua I
is a fantastic ) e g a u g n La n ig re hing English as a Fo c a e (T ssroom of FL la E c T , a a in to h in C n g in lk a w missed. Imagine e b to t o n ity n u to learn. As a rt o ic st a si opp u th n e re a m nts, all of who nto a class of o s ill sk e well-behaved stude g a u g n la h ssing your Englis a p e b teaching ’ll u ’re yo u r, yo e t h c a h a w te t a th g students; knowin d e in rm te e d d n a ly friend nd yourself. a ts n e d u st r u yo th o b is of great benefit to ns will pay tio itu st in y n a m t a th rivate schools is p in g in rk o w f o e are reimbursed g rs ta e h c a te y An advan n a M . a s to and from Asi se n e xp e l f money, along o ve a m tr su r u e ic n a for yo ith w t, so you ’ll leave c a tr n o c ir e th f o d n ledge. at the e w o kn le b a lu va d n a emories with unforgettable m
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sh
TEFL China China
age
ditionally, d A . e m ti fe li enture of a v d a ntage n a v a d n a o e g g in u h rk a s can be a will be emb e u g o a y u g y it n n la u 5 percent rt e 9 s o e p a in p h ’s o C re c ti e d s n th ta a n u here and the English With this fa o in y r s r English n fo u o o ti e y a rs c u p fi u o li c a n u e g q rp in w a why not sh e right train o th achieving ne S d . s ourself in y F te e a t. iv id e g rk d d n a n a m a c b a in jo yers’ desire land of Chin lo g n p in the global ti m n e a t h a c h n w e develop xploring the e s a ; e s e in chance you ’ll h t learning C s il h w ls il k s e g langua memories. to pick d y n s a a e e g re d a le s w ic o ge, the bas a u a wealth of kn g n la e g day, the th in k rk a o e w p s y ’t n n a o m d expect fro even if you ’d s u a o t, So you ’ll y u . rs o n u s a o is u h m Y r 0 fo to ; 0 d id ,5 e a erage of 4 ct to be p v e There’s no ne a p x n e a n h it a w c , u th cher yo n per mon a u Y 0 0 ,0 up. As a tea 6 ur time. o to y f 0 o 0 ,8 re 3 tu n m e o fr arding adv w re t salaries range s o m e best time th e n th o is rk w a o b n m e o ucation, s d get paid to e d school n d a n y a g e lo m o m n h ra c g leader in te ’ll find a pro u d rl o y o w in a a rt g e c in y becom rtunities, it ’s o p p o e id China is vastl w n . With natio rd a o b n o p to jum . suited to you
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 253
C e l e b r at e T h e M o o n c ak e F e sti v a l
The Mooncake
Festival T
ncake festival, o o M r o n o o M e th l, also known as a iv st fe n elebrated m c tu o u ls a -A t id u b M r a he d n le a n in the Chinese c tio ra b le e c t n a c ifi the equivalent of n s a d e is a sig m e e d d n a and Taiwanese se e m a tn ie V e th y b rn culture. e st e W in s a tm ris h C celebrating onth when the m r a n lu th h ig e e th the 15th day of n o ld est and is an e h rv a l, h a n iv m st tu fe u A e The th f o brates the end le e c , st te h is year it will h rig T b y. its a t a lid o h lic b moon is u p y it was made a h w e c n e h n o iti d a tr important 0th. fall on September 3
There a Chinese Chinese filling lik dancin
The fe the sk comp immo
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C e l e b r at e T h e M o o n c ak e F e s t i v a l
oncakes – a o m g n ti a e azing and g n ted with o n ri o p m : im s a re h a c s u s e e festival t mooncak th s o to M dense ts a l. n f a e o v t m ti s is le s fe e n l o is c ra th are seve gevity ” and ten during n a lo e “ r terns, ly o n n ” o y la n t y h o ll g a rm ri u a s b h u “ g y e de: carr yin e delicac lu keywords lik c in to s in m te to s la s u n c a h tr on. Other o m ll fu e symbols whic e th t n lk to represe o y g g e n a ke making. h tc a m d n a at once in s ll n a io n d u re re a y e il p m p ng, fa 10 suns a it s a nd once h a d s n n e u s g le a tr n x e e h nt times w n the nine ie w c o n d a t ake him o m to o h k ld s c u a o to w b r t s e a h te th estival da famous arc r with a pill e a h d rc a te c e u th tr s d in ror en rewarde v a e H ky. The Empe rn te s e ddess of W o G e th d te ple However, his wife fo ortal. und it and took it h erself; as a result sh was banished to th e e moon. Apparently the mythical Moon Goddess of Immorta lity can be seen da ncing on the moon to this day.
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M al ay s i a
A
colourful and vitalising country, Malaysia entertains and electrifies every tourist that flocks here. For a fun-filled and packed holiday, Malaysia doesn’t disappoint.
Join the ‘Red Ape’ trail in the city of Kuching for an adventurous trek through the enchanting rainforest where you’ll wild orang-utans and visit remote communities. The trail promises its customers an insight into wild, endangered species that survive in their natural habitat. Visiting the au- thentic longhouses of the local Iban guides is also on the itinerary, the guides give speeches of their knowledge of the animals and their communities.
meru n h it W for you. e est r b e h t e h s t y a ly n ing is alw that includes o ou ’ll find h c u K in food ere y Court h f d w o r o t s e o e F n h t in s truly fre dd Spo o n e t h p a ll t o a h T t d c s n e n y a h r kfast, lu areas m eve ungr y, t a o h r g e f r t in b h e in r is g d o d f u s er yo d court s. Tr y a spaciou o m , o n la f c o e Whenev r e h n t o nd raz Go to t up in li a . s s e ll e in k a t is a s u c s c ou er pan t laysian s y a o M , l in offer. a n id o t m s s a a h h traditio alaysia hes suc M is d d s o u o f io delic amazing e h t e t apprecia
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M al ay s i a
Malaysia
For remarka ble in the Borne sights and an adrenali ne-filled aft o Island. Be ernoon, tak ing the talle to have a g e a hike up st mountain ood time. L Mount Kina t h e u w ckily for all peaks to co h o le balu locate o f S o tourists and uth–East Asia nquer, only d m t is ountain clim akes two da p ence. Climb ro o f y o u ’re going b ys and the ers climber lead ing virgins, is it one of ibly rewardin typically take two peo th ers don’t as ple a day w g and unfo k for any pre e easiest rgettable, c ith an overn vious experi limbing Kina ight stop at b a a g lu uest house. is one activ A night out Incredity you can’t in Malaysia is surprisingly miss out on. of Kuala Lu better than mpur is vibra you may init n t and glamo laysia- it ’s sit ially th rous and is uated on th the best pla ink. Sky Bar, situated in e top floor the centre ce to head of a hotel a fter all! to for a co cktail in Ma -
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C heap & C h e e r f u l : A T h ai l an d A dv en ture
Cheap & Cheerful: A
T
here are so many reasons to travel around Thailand from the undeniably fantastic cuisine, the therapeutic and beautiful beaches to the wildlife to name a few but the main reasons are most likely, to experience a different culture like no other and gain insight into another way of life. Most travellers say the best way to fulfil your Thailand experience is to ‘Go native’- this means imitating the locals by embracing their way of life. However this can be expensive so here are the best ways to fully experience what Thailand has to offer on a budget.
g n i p p Sho
duct. ality pro lled u q r o o re fi rap y less fo ng and a oard a i t p a o u o fl y ly teral full-b mean ets are li essarily nd on a c k a l r e i a n a m ’t Th n e s s ck up taying in her. You can pi that doe arkets. Yes, the s t t u o b n k exe o Bangk ating m specially if you’r here like no ot anufacturer and n i o e fl v e i s h t n osp gm ce, e nexpe ing to n produ l aroma and atm a major clothin a great value. riously i lture is by cruis o o t p o u n k d c i cu tiona le at o sto ar an s also is popul rience rural Tha re great places t cals into a sensa eat. Thailand i ds being availab g n i p p o lo Sh sm se a xpe goo way to e f products. The med by friendly rd of to deliciou ls” to designer t s e b e a o a i o Th lc e he ec ill be we e never ide rang mart sp with a w e market you w uit that you hav ments from “Kfr ar t th basis. A om fresh exotic wide range of g r a f t g anythin ou can easily ge y o s porter
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C he a p & Ch e e r f u l : A T h ai l an d Ad v en ture
A Thailand Adventure Bangk
ok Bik e Ride
There’s no need to spe nd shed lo rides. Get ads of mon off the bea ey o ten track a peaceful ca n d explore th n transport to get aro nals. Not o und Bangk e city as yo nly will yo you will als ok or visit u cycle thr u get to be o get to me attractions o ugh lanes, in the centr et the frien Bike rides when you m e arkets, trad of the majo dly locals. are an adve can s itional hou r attraction Not to men nturous an ses, stunnin imply take bike s like the R tion you w d authentic g temples a ed Frame G ill get a bril way to disc nd iant and Su liant insigh over and fa t into Bang that Temple ll in love w k ok that few but ith Thailan d. tourists kn ow about.
Hat Ma i Kh ao As a traveller and tourist, when there’s a beach nearby it comes as no surprise you will want to take the opportunity to chill out and lounge around, peace and solitude are just a few steps away. So why not soak up the sun on Phucket’s longest beach with its fantastic atmosphere? What makes it even better is the fact that you can do this for free. There are lively parts of the Hat Mai Khao beach where you can join in with water activities or simply have a splash around in the warm clear blue sea If you come between November and February you can witness the Sea Turtles laying their eggs, which is nothing less than a special event. Whilst at Hat Mai Khao, if you find time to pull yourself away from the beautiful beach, let Phuket seduce you. With a smooth blend of ostentation and seediness, Phuket is as colourful as it is cosmopolitan. After all it has got a renowned reputation as one of the world’s most famous travel destinations.
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C heap & C h e e r f u l : A T h ai l an d A dv en ture
Nigh tlif e The great news about the nightlife in Thailand is that you don’t have to go far for a cheap and cheerful time. Look around, you will find bars, clubs and other entertainment venues all available at moderate prices. The Bed is a popular place and is regarded as one of the hottest clubs in Bangkok. The place is worth paying a visit just to take pictures of the space-ship like building inside and to dance the night away to great music. Alternatively there are beach bars and clubs along the coastlines; you can dine in any one of these then sip your drinks whilst watching the sky transform from a picturesque sunset to stunning starry backdrop lighting up the sky all amongst a friendly atmosphere.
Food
most e world’s alth of h t f o e we s on ai food i r. They offer a Th s a ly e hung pecial iland, es will satisfy your a Th f o nts parts restaura in most y p n western a a e m m h o c r ’s f s d i s n e d a i l o r e fo Thai e of u va eir men is an abundanc ost of th thing different, m Th t . a s h e . t n d l i wor cuis know some there r world ased to u fancy very part of the owever, e e l o h H y p t f o . e i g r b r n l o e i l i Tha ost e owev ry rid You wi e best of s to do like fer rom alm sines. H i f h t u d c e o r c o a f n l e g popu thin xperi e with way to e ts here for local expertis e y v r i a s n n i l e cu icke n exp rchase t rant is a u u p a t o s ls e a r e d. an ular Fam tir-fries. You c o eat in Thailan p o p e Th is ce t ts to Tha able pla breakfas ch are an afford hi diners w
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C he a p & Ch e e r f u l : A T h ai l an d Ad v en ture
Accom
m o d at
ion
After the c ulture of Th ailand, the numerated next with cheap places to sta most enticing aspec money. M t of travellin y but it is im ost parts o f Thailand g here is th p o cheap and r ta n t to offer guest e budget fo look aroun clean living h r accommo o d uses and lo in advance quarters in dation. Th w so you can many of th cost hotels e co get the bes e cities and as well dec t accommo untry is well ent hostels towns of Th dation for . You will be ailand. your pleasantly surprised to find
Round u p Thailand is a fa ntastic land to explore so ther popular tourist e’s no doubt wh destination. W y it’s such a ith these attrib your life and st utes you can hav ill have money e the time of left over; perfe ct all around.
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J am e s B o n d T o u r O f T h ai l a nd
s e m Ja r u To i a h T ough to n e t o n y l clear it’s simp l a t s y r c n his feet i g n i p p i nt to be d a 7 w 0 u 0 o h y c , t s a i just w n Martin o g ith the n i w p p n i a s M d e n h a waters After ‘T . n a tured c a e u f o ’ y s e w i o D N r ow Neve r there too. r o m o T ‘ ourists d t n , a d ’ n n a l u i G a h Golden around T d n aming a n e n r i e d h e t m l n i i scenes f resulted s i h t d n a oming ose c r e , b t i s s t i n v e o t m desire ral monu e v e s d n a d of an islan ions. t c a r t t a t s touri
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ometimes
Ja m e s B o n d T o u r O f T h ai l an d
T he previ ou sly u n k n o w n Kh ao P h i n g K an b l i s s f u l i sl a n ds a re now a m a jo r to u r ist a ttr ac t i o n af t e r t h e y l e n t t h e msel v es to the fi l mi n g o f ‘The M a n w i t h t h e G o l d e n G u n ’ . T o wa l k a l on g the sam e go lde n sa n ds Ro ge r M o o r e d i d b ac k i n 19 7 4 a n d to re -enact the B o n d a n d v i l l ai n S c ar am an ga ( Ch r i s t opher Lee) w e st ern sh o o to u t sc e n e wi t h y o u r f r i e n d s t ak e a t r ip to ‘Ja mes B ond i sl an d ’. Un fo r tu nat e l y w e c an ’ t gu ar an t e e you’l l see U rsul a An d r e ss o r D a n i e l Cr ai g s t r u t o u t o f t h e w ater!
d n o B s f o r d n ila
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J am e s B o n d T o u r O f T h ai l a nd
takes h c i h w d n a o the isl t y a d y r e caves, a v e y t e e k k n u o h P m leave popular o t s ing off l n i a a f s Tour buses d e r n o o f B e of eager village b s g d n n i on the a h s e s i i u l f o s h t t m i n l a s r u h at a M nd restau c a n r u a l b f e o t m e photos, o o m S sp o s . ’ e d k n a t a l ond is n hour to a onto t u k o c b a a b to ‘James B d n e e l v t i s g you’re hu d you’re n e r a o , f d e b n a r prefer l e s e i u b o a y f d i n o a s t to ea stunning s i f l e have a bite s lf onto a t e i s r d u n o a l y s i k o e Th mese , then bo a t i i S e t l the boats. a a i c n e o r i t p a tradi er to ap g d r n a o o l b e v u a o h y the dayr f to e o t e f A m i t . e y s a crui joyed an n e e b n a June Barth or a few c f h y c i a t h s w o t e s rui llows you a d he one n t Junk, the c a o t d n y a t l i s r i a l to the s a simi e l b m l laugh e i s v takes you e e r r f u l o e s y t i e e boat practic o s m l i f e hours. Th h waters. t n n e i e r d g e e n h w t ga o l along i a s u o Scaraman y t s nce whil a t s n u g d an
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s e m Ja r u To i a h T
d n o B s f o r d n ila
Ja m e s B o n d T o u r O f T h ai l an d
If you take a Road in the drive along he famou Ratch a s mon art of Ban gkok, damnoen K umen scene ts y be la with t tween 007 that appear ou’ll see a f ng he a ew i lies on Golden Gu nd Scaram n the car c ha an n seen i the Dinso R ’. The Dem ga in ‘The se n o o M the ‘G the film an ad intersec cracy monu an tion w iant S d then ment h wing’ briefl i f ch is urther y dur c o m d o e s i wn th in front e road of the g the car ch n shot whic , h ‘ a briefl W s i e s a . t s T Sutha e y. t’ tem he swing s en i ple th at is a ts in lso se en
D e s p i t e w an t i n g t o f i l m h al f of ‘Tomorrow N ev er D i e s ’ i n V i e t n am , t h e p r o d u cti on tea m were f orced t o r e l o c at e t o B an gk o k . Du ri n g the second ha l f o f t h e f i l m , J am e s an d ‘ B o n d gi rl ’ W a i Li n cl i mb d o w n a s k y s c r ap e r . We d o n’t recommen d you c l i m b d o w n t h e We s t i n B an ya n Tree Hotel but we d o r e c o m m e n d y o u s t ay t h e re. At a round £ 1 4 0 a n i gh t i t ’ s n o t c h e ap b u t w ith sk yscra per v i ews, a r o o f t o p r e s t au r an t , l u x u r i ous spa s a nd outdoor s w i m m i n g p o o l i t ’ s go t 0 0 7 wri tten a l l ov er i t. S o b o o k y o u r s e l f a r o o m , and don ’t worry we w o n ’ t t e l l i f y o u u s e t h e p s e udo, ‘Ja mes Bon d’. F o r a c h e ap e r v e r s i o n o f t o u ri sty, v i si t the i dyl l i c M ah o gan y Wh ar f w h e r e B o n d ba ttl es a ga i nst hi s e n e m i e s i n an ad r e n al i n e - f uel l ed bi k e cha se.
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Cycling In India
Cycle India
I
S a i
f
ndi a is a m a g ic al j o u r n e y o f adve nture , be aut y a n d myste ry; i t ’ s a l an d t h at k n o ws no l i mi t s o n life style . C y c l i n g t o u r s t h r o u gh I n d i a a re a fan ta stic w a y to e x p e r i e n c e t h e r e al I n d i a b e ca use i t’s a u n iq u e o p p o r tu n i t y t o s e e e v e r y t h i n g, ge t i n v ol v ed w i t h the va st a n d d i v e r s e c u l t u r e t h e y h av e an d ma ybe eve n le a r n a thin g o r t w o .
on bike r u o t o t e l p o e p ow regular l l a l l i w y t i n u and n a h t s a No other opport j a R n states of a i d In r a l u p es to be as o p v o r p e r u t l u c through the e ace where th l p a s n fairs i u f n a d h n t s a s ja e a s R u c . r Karala ents like ci v e n u t make f a h d t n s a e i e l r p o t o e s p s e u of tremendo diverse as th e m o h e h t s he secludi t e e t r a o t l s p e x e h T y . l r e e a r l are regu lists can f c y c r O . g n i t a d that this n n i i c f s l a ’l f y y e r h o T t s . i i its h meless safar i t a lush green n o s t a i l a h r t i a K W f . o n a s ed area t o R a ja s t h y t u a e b ue lagoons l e b v i , t s a r e n r v e i t r l a g n n i land is a ds, easy go n a l d o o w l u crafted by f r e n e d e n b o s w a , h s t n i i a e t moun la looks lik a r a K e f i l d l i w and abundant ds. g o d ’s o w n h a n
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w ea
Cycling In India
Pedal thro ugh diver se and cu ditional p ltural vill eople who ages fille are all too know you d with fri e a . The ride ger to sha endly and re wonder along the shared by traf open road ul stories camels, co between v and get to ws, goats illages wi and mayb ll perhaps e even an See childr be e l e phant. en runnin g around amongst freely and the vast d often play iversity o ndividual f ing a gam t h e streets. style and e of cricke S e p e temples eaceful ki first ha t, that have nd people. n d t h Experienc eir own experien women ta e an unfo ce of ho king wate rgettable r from the w t ach other h e locals l communa in their ev l w ive; like e eryday to ll and the day life. villagers helping
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Cycling In India
Be o v e r w he lm e d b y t h e as t o n i s h i n g t r an s f o r m at i ons of deserts and t o w n s a s yo u e x p l o r e t h e m o n c am e l b ac k : as tra v el l ers a nd no m ad s ha ve d o n e fo r c e n t u r i e s . Wat c h i n g t h e sunset a nd sun ri se i n the Tha r De s e rt i s a s i gh t t h at ’ s w orth seei n g a n d vi deo re c o r din g , b e c au s e i t ’ s s o u n i q u e an d p u r e. There’s no other p l ac e o n e a r th to s e e t h e m agi c al s t ar s l i gh t up the cl ea r mi dni gh t sk y in the c o o l b r e e z e t h an i n t h i s d e s e r t .
s the i s aya
al hav m n i e H wom the and d f o n s a k d l a n r e wo uries me r their pe den valt o m re id ue nt h e d q c n r n the i a r o e o c f t h o F s t o . t a s f e l v and yas rinths o tim thil the a o e e l t o g f a o f i n l i r y im a em sh Explo unity of rds the H nique lab in the lu nto the r l world i u t a e
u arts elcomed acef f mount e oppor ulled tow ate and s p y d p an s o e w rne ric b l t u w e o u l n j i l f i i v i ture been e e t a w e h h u l t N t a u b f e . o e a o r y iles beat e a b hite m n k explo his part om here i w r u l o e f h s r i T r ug pu and d l n m t leys. Valley. F ks, which ride thro a s u s a S e v a tre l u the the n n e e i and e e Kull ficent pe llers wil r s s n g s o e e t v nd m dn ve . E ni mag own. Tra nable the e lakes a untains king wil o e lu ta of its that will ol clear b alayan M f breath o o tains e large c o the Him e habitat th th ue t n q i i like e n ill b is u w w s o r sn velle y. a r t aut mer e b e at desol
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Cycling In India Accom panie hand , thro d by India ug n frie to sha n re the h-out the tour c ds, who kn experi yclis ence ts wil ow the tou t h at su There rs lik l nev ms u is pl e e the r p life be los throu e n t t i tself. y of and h back of th ghout ave s eir staff acco o . Tho the Himal m e m body moda se on ayan ventu t t M he tou rer ou ion, rs can ountain a t as t which n hey c d e is ver i C t her bo ity to hoose y wel o u k in where r s l pric w ith fr advan to sta i endly ed, ce or y onc let th e in t eir in hotel he de n stina tion. er ad-
r, tabe t u p m a co m o soon r f d l s i u h o t c d to rea ut you b y s n e a e e r c s fei e s It i l n o h a p t ar of e c n e let or sm i ions r n e a p p m x o the e up of c bio r g g n i y t take on l i d c x n most e h a frie e t h i t w y e l tim ubted o d Earth. n u n o s i d t a a o be h in wh t e r u t n ve cycle ad iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 269
B e s t O f T h e Re s t O f As i a
Best of the Rest of Asia
S
o Singap
re
i n g a p o r e , a fo r me r B r i t i s h t r ad i n g c o l o n y i n the 1 9th century, i s l oca te d in So u the a s t As i a. I f t o u r i s t s w an t t o experi en ce the tropi ca l wea the r a n d the m e d l e y o f c u l t u r e s o n d i s p l a y, Si nga pore i s def i ni tel y the c o u n tr y f o r y o u .
Fo r tho se o f yo u l o v e l y w i v e s t h at e n j o y s h oppi n g a n d spen di n g your h u sband’s ha r d e a r n e d c as h o n d e s i gn e r c l o t h e s an d shoppi ng i n gen era l , w h y no t he a d o n o ve r to O r c h ar d Ro ad ? T h e r o ad s li tera l l y a wa sh wi th shops a n d m al l s a s fa r a s the e y e c an s e e . M ay b e y o u w ant to ta k e your f a mi l y a lon g w i t h yo u in ste a d o n Ch r i s t m as Day w h e r e y o u a nd the chi l dren wi l l e njo y wal k in g thr o u g h a r o ad w h e r e p al m t r e e s ar e decora ted wi th rei n deers a n d gi nge r br e a d ho u se s c o v e r e d i n f ak e s n o w .
Due t o India the great n im i migr nflux of nial ants C pe durin hinese not t riod you g the o fin would col d taura b Chin ese an e hard pr nts e ess v looki d Ind ng to erywhere i a n res you g samp cuisi o ne sh le the . T o ur ou natow sump tuous is n, wh ld make t tage h area. ich is now eir way t loc o Ch can’t a Chi For t hose n bear e se he heat to eat tongu s e ekers riwitho es bu r Littl u e Ind ned, do n t having that ia, n Most orth o ot look be their of th yond f the eir re for th c s i ty co ta eir sp re icy h urants a re ren . eat! owne Want d to av have oid th a e con geste slipp more rela ers a d citi x i ng ti nd be es an off to m e ? a d c h P t ack y towel gapor he East C s and our oast. e’s M h e a alay coun ter a popul Home to S d fr ous, wond you w inerful iendly lo il ca coast eries. line a l commu l enn nd lo ads o ity, f eat270 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
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V iet nam V ie tnam i s situ a te d in So u t h e as t As i a an d n e i gh b o u r s c ou ntri es such a s C hin a , L ao s an d C am b o d i a. F r o m O ctobe r t o Apri l the n o r the r n r e gi o n o f V i e t n am i s h i t w i th a mon so o n p e r io d. O u tsid e o f t h i s t i m e f r am e t h e n o r t h h a s lukewarm w e a the r , o fte n c l o u d y w i t h b o u t s o f d r i zz le . Th e so ut h to o e x p e r ie n c e s t h e m o n s o o n b e t w e e n S e pte mbe r and J an u a r y, bu t for t h e r e s t o f t h e y e ar s t ay s m ain l y dry an d su n n y. C u ltu ral l y t he Vie tn a m e se h av e l e n t h e av i l y u p o n t h e C h ine se. Th is is ve r y e vide n t i n H o Ch i M i n h C i t y , w h ere la rg e c o nt i ng e n ts o f C hin e s e ar e d e s i gn at e d an d w h e r e C a n tonese i s c o n sid e r e d a s e c o n d l an gu age . B u t t o u r is ts w ho cann o t sta n d the t h o u gh t o f e at i n g c at m e at for lu n ch c an kee p the ir m in d s at e as e t h an k s t o t h e F r e n ch! H a ving o nc e be e n o c c u p a n t s o f t h e l an d s t h e m s e l v e s , t h e V ie tnamese c u ltu r e ha s a b s o r b e d a s t r o n g F r e n c h i n f l ue nce to o and to u r ists w ill b e h ap p y t o f i n d t h at b agu e t tes a n d coffee i s p o p u la r a m o n g l o c al s .
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Mo n g o l i a tion a n t c distin ory a s i lia ist Mongo of its rich h non o e m s y com ravel becau l r i a f t ill and st festyle. The uring ing d li s c i n i d g a m ason lly be e a s e r k a n its pe seaso s bet t i s h u d g n u May a uly, with A ions. t may i J d u d n o n o y c u o r y ar istor eathe h w with n r d i o e f t n s l r e a o r ide inte is ad n t lar I a u p . h o r t p i a t t w a rists r mos anba i u a e l o h t U t e l o s t a o For th see the capit s dedicated o seum u m want t d an some s h t . c c t n a a a f h arte is K g to w h n g i t n e n a G w ad on e n h e t m export o the y n lled s e h s u w e f , n s e t wive eron d wi t n e s a h o t t r s a tling e m t s t o a e r r a u f o b w y n y For Ulaa t awa orting e n p i g s ene e d n r b e t n l a n M l e i t spor -13. ou w own c 1 y t 1 , e ndy y h y a l t c c a u o e J t m y down ival on r ring supre o see some e t s e f t m o Naada d jostling f en wanting an wom s p a attire h oper c P e . h d t ! e o t l ok a ng to thral o o l l a d n van g a a a t t T e i d n l a e t u sho vs he Al it Erd U T s e i v h . t y n r does acto f s sts ca a i t r e , p u y r o itage t t a r u c e e a s H e s r b u u d o fam Worl cenic Of co s d a s n s r a i e f s of ich ne per mi tional Park province, wh a s Bogd N ke in the Uv a Nour L Site.
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I t is la n d lo c k e d i n S o u t h As i a an d c o n t ai ns ei ght of t he te n w o r ld’s p e ak s , al s o h o m e t o M o u n t Ev erest. N epa l is the ho m e o f G au t am a B u d d h a, t h e f oun der of the Bu d d hist fa ith . N e p al e x p e r i e n c e s h e av y mon soon ra i n s b e tw e e n Ju n e an d S e p t e m b e r b u t c o o l e r w e a ther between Oc to be r a n d D ec e m b e r , s o d o n ’ t f o r ge t t o p a ck your umb r e lla s!
The H will imalaya a s kn o junk ppeal to you wn as th ies a t n adve e ntur d trekk ourists t “roof of e es ar h do h ere. e jus rs. Rock at are a the world dren t som But ” relax clim a i l f e b i i i n y n o ng a f the e stead ou w tang n a t d , n h you its o Nationa can t to blow ings you sport l a wn r ight Park, w lways tr off steam can . hich avel and has t May o L gorg a b eous nging. e Kathm sites a in fami Home to ndu Val ley s lies vario w o Sacr us c ultu unds mo ed te ill tend re t m r over place ples an o enjoy t s and re e appeald l popu h s lar a like Pa monum is regio igions, n mo t ents mon g tou an and re. c a n be Bhak rists seen tapu . al r an d is l
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s is e n i p p i e Phil h t , a even i s s A n a t h s the less t uthea o o d S n n a f n o i a e Se e up lago e d n i p a i p h m p i c l s r geni i a h t n I P n i a l . n e a s y A untr betwe tropic o e c i y chl e r r e u t o v a q c i s h s t i n e a u ather can b lands e s t i a W e d . h ing n a k e a e c h s a S t u p o a y o h n a t d M ber, s t Chi n o s a t a idea. c h E O c d r h o t n a o i u g M o r S occu tly a ween t c n e a a b x c e t s t u ’ phoon s isn eral b p y o t l f g n p tro nd fli a s ing. S t r i an sh i i a w a H
T o u r is ts c a n jo in in w it h th e lo c a l f e s ti v it ie s , f o r e x a m p le E a s te r S u n d a y . T h e C h in e s e N e w Y e a r o f f e r s p le n ty o f c o lo u r a n d s tr e e t p a r a d e s a n d E id -u l- F it r o f f e r s M u s li m to u r a more sombre ex is ts p e r ie n c e o f p r a y e r a n d r it u a l. D o g e t C h r is tm a s D n ’t f o r a y a ls o in B a g u io , w h e r e m a n y to u r is ts te n d to f lo c k to c e le b r a te th e b ir th o f Je s u s C h r is t. V is a y a s is th e r e g io n o f is la n d s lo c a te d c e n tr a ll y th e m o s t a tt r a c ti and v e d e s ti n a ti o n in th e P h il ip p in e s to is ts w a n ti n g to to u r a v o id r e li g io n a n d c u lt some sea and sa ure and soak up nd. They have th e b e s t b e a c h e s o u t a n d f o r n a tu th r o u g h r e lo v e r s p r o v id e b io d iv e r s it y in g q u a n ti ty . reat
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Europe
Europe
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E uro p e h a s b e e n e x p e r ie n c i n g e c o n o m i c t u m u l t t h i s pa st yea r but i t ha s n ot de t erred t o u r ists fr o m tr av e l l i n g al l o v e r E u r o p e , s o why shoul d i t stop you?
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nsure your passport is in date, double check your visa is valid, finalise your removal date, transfer or close your bank account and ensure you won’t be homeless on the other side. It may seem like we’re treating you like an idiot but you won’t believe how many people make these mistakes. You want to make it as easy as possible for yourself, after all. Find out where your local British embassy is in the country you are moving to, no one likes to think about using an embassy aboard but they are always there to help if you get into trouble or even just want some advice. Discuss a ‘settling period’ with your new employer, a period of time that allows you to get settled and get acquainted with your new surroundings. Your new boss will more than likely offer this but if not, ask.
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Travelling to England is just something global travellers have to do. Home to one of the earliest forms of representative democracy, the House of Parliament encapsulates what it is all about. Tourists can marvel at its incredible architecture whilst soaking up the historical tales of civil strife between the Puritan Oliver Cromwell and the monarchy of Charles. Or listen to local tour guides enthral you with the story of Guy Fawkes plot to blow up the house in what has led to the commemoration of bonfire night on November 5th. Buckingham Palace itself really adds to the aura of English history and you are bound to find it in a palace that houses no less than six hundred rooms. Built by the Duke of Buckingham in 1705, it didn’t become synonymous with royalty until it was purchased King George the III in 1761. Currently home to Queen Elizabeth II, there are the Throne and State Dining rooms which can be visited by tourists amongst many others.
Once you are through with London hire a car out and drive down the M1 and M6 motorways to see Liverpool. It’s about 211 miles away and amounts to a drive which is just under 4 hours. Visiting Liverpool definitely has to be a priority for many tourists. The city is immersed with culture and even held the title “European Culture Capital” not too long ago. It is the birthplace of the Beatles, regarded as one of the biggest bands in pop culture ever. Liverpool is also home to the Liverpool Football Club which has a worldwide following. You can visit games there on most Saturday weekends at their home ground Anfield between the start of autumn to the end of spring.
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T he Ea st is Ch ea p a n d Cheerful astern Europe can no longer be fobbed off by tourists. There are a plethora of great destinations to travel to. Ever since the communist reign ended in 1991 countries like Bulgaria and Russia have become far more accessible to people from across the world.
Prague in the Czech Republic has especially gained a reputation for its nightlife. Bachelors are turning away from central European capitals like Amsterdam in order to enjoy the thrills of bachelor parties and strip clubs, which are again not too harsh on those looking to have fun for a weekend on a limited budget. Tourists who may get homesick from Western Europe need not feel they are in unfamiliar surroundings. Croatia can cater to your needs with some wonderful coastline and sites. You can sail around the small archipelagos in Croatia as an alternative or go to the capital Zagreb and take in the culture.
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The mammoth of the east has to be Russia. The currency difference allows you to get your money worth in Moscow and your bound to come home with great souvenirs and a feeling of enlightenment. Russia’s rich history dates back millennia but tourists cannot escape the lingering shadow of communism that has held sway over the country since 1917. It took many forms such as Leninism, Stalinism and Trotskyism but the prevalent theme always centred on state authority and a classless society. The Soviet Empire included much of Eastern Europe at one point until the break up of it in 1991 under Mikhail Gorbachev. Tired of history? Then why not make your way down to Bolshoi Theatre and catch a play for a thousand rubles? Those lovers of art need not feel left out (even if you are few in number), as Tretkayov Gallery will see to all your creative desires.
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W h ere to S ta rt? aving arrived in Liverpool in the north-west, you can plod your way around the city. Seeing the famous football clubs and museums dedicated to legends like John Lennon and Paul McCartney of the Beatles will make you feel at home with the local people renowned for their great sense of humour and thick squeaky accents.
Make your way south towards the English capital stopping off at home of the Royal family at Buckingham Palace. Learn about a family that has lasted an entire millennia,, dating its lineage back to William the Conqueror in 1066. Then travel to the House of Parliament and prepare to have your imagination tantalised by the tales of Guy Fawkes attempting to blow up parliament. With options available to travel all over Europe, cross over by ferry from Dover to Calais in France and work your way through central Europe until you get to the east where you will experience an entirely different way of life. Croatia and the Czech Republic have a slightly more western twinge within eastern borders embodied by the great night life and modern towns open to many tourists. Then when you get to Russia visit the birthplace of communism, travel to Moscow and be truly mesmerised by the Bolshoi theatre and St Basil Cathedral built in 1556.
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T h e N o r t h e r n Li gh t s
The Northern Ligh A
lso known as Aurora Boreal nature’s most spectacular loured light display captivat with a magnificent and fasc in a mesmerising way. Indescribab greatest things you can experience
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lis, the Northern Lights are one of displays. A mysterious, multicotes you as the night sky illuminates cinating glow that twists and swirls ble and unearthly, it is one of the e on your travels.
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Scotland
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cotland is a ing in the h You can tak ence the fa
On a clear night i have a wealth of e of Thurso and get city, Inverness, wh along the River N lar coastline, stun Lights, known loc
Sweden B
jörkliden is recognised as one of the world’s finest locations to feast your eyes on the ern Lights. Björkliden is based in the high Swedish mountains, which means you are front row-seat. The journey through the mountains is an experience in itself. Indu culture Sweden has to offer in the beautiful and habitual villages of Abiska and Abis vistas of the clear Tornetask Lake and the huge natural door that paves the way to the mountain
Taking a guided tour of Björkliden or through the mountains is a sure way not to miss any of the a travellers. Some companies even offer them on huskies so you can glide through the winter wo is a spectacular city to indulge and fulfil all your imaginations of the Northern lights.
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a sensational place to watch the Northern Lights, especially if you live in the United Kingdom. Beheart of nature’s very own spectacular display has never been simpler with flights from major cities. ke a road trip and stop of at fantastic cities like Glasgow and Edinburgh along the way and experiascinating culture, attractions and heritage.
in most places of Northern Scotland like Thurso, Inverness and the Orkney Islands, stargazers will entertainment. Spend the day exploring the blue sea on the golden sandy beaches and scenic town t an astonishing view of nature’s unique beauty. Or see the Northern lights from Scotland’s primary here highlands give magnificent views of Scottish countryside and you can take a refreshing stroll Ness at the Northern end of the Great Glen. The natural beauty of Orkney Islands, with its spectacunning cliffs and beautiful countryside make for an extraordinary backdrop to watch the Northern cally as ‘The Merry Dancers’.
e awe-inspiring Northe bound to get a clear ulge in the wonderful sko. See the exclusive ns, Lapporten.
action and meet other onderland. Björkliden
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romso and Finmark are hotspots to enjoy the Northern Lights in Norway. See one of nature’s finest beauties swirl and twirl through the sky forming an array of vibrant lights; highlighting warm and golden colours. Not to mention you will be cosy on a clear mountain top, whilst you wait for the entrancing light show to start. You can sip on some tasty drinks and delicious food whilst you wait beside the open fire. Then star gaze either on the snow or chairs and be prepared to be amazed. For over twenty years, Tromso has been blessed with the Northern Lights Festival; a musical extravaganza. Each year offers top artists from a wide variety of genres ranging from contemporary to opera and jazz. Be sure not to miss this exciting event at the end of January, dates are still to be announced.
Whilst in Norway why not take part in fantastic daytime activities? Let your adventurous side out as you fully embrace the Norwegian mountain scenery and fascinating wildlife through a snowmobile safari. Alternatively you can go horse riding with a qualified instructor or indulge your taste buds in an array of the finest wines Norway has to offer. Your time in Norway is certain to be highly entertaining, fun and educational.
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Finland
ake the beautiful journey to the Aurora Chalet in Luosto in Northern Finland where, upon arrival, you’ll be handed an “Aurora Alarm” which beeps once Northern Lights appear; so you will not miss a moment of the stunning action. Lake Inari is also radiant are to observe the Northern Lights. Here you will be able to catch a glimpse of magical lights in the sky as well as in the smooth reflections of the clear water. As you wait to be dazzled by the display, cosy up next to a campfire with a hot drink and hearty food; maybe even share stories of the wonderful adventures on your travels. Taking a tour to the Northern lights is a fantastic and exclusive opportunity. Take home a camera full of memories as you travel through the traditional and unique countryside of Finland. You can even visit the world famous Santa Claus Village and fall in love with the culturally rich city of Rovaniemi. As night falls, embark on a wildlife snowmobile safari across the Wild Tundra where the floras and vast mountain scenery give a perfect backdrop as you catch a glimpse of local animals in their natural habitat.
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Greenland
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reenland still remains the final frontier for the average traveller and is still fairly unexplored by those from other countries; making it more exclusive to you. The South boasts having fantastic viewing spots for the spectacular Northern Lights display. Imagine being in the vast shores of the Fjord where you can taste the fresh air and the picturesque icebergs swiftly move in the cool water, then you look up the see the night sky pierced with millions of stars with a glimmer of the moon. Suddenly a greenish light appears resembling a cloud lit by the moonlight. Then the display beings to intensify with a magical blend of colours from the rainbow and before long you are swept up in the beauty of the vibrant movements of the Northern Lights. The display moves and changes with surprising speed forming captivating whirlpools and beams that merge and intensify, then you want to relive the magic all over again. Greenland is a must see place to take in the Northern Lights – the striking white mountain scenery amongst the water provides a stunning backdrop. It’s no wonder people travel hundreds of miles to see the Northern Lights, pictures simply don’t do the sensational act of nature justice so go in the flesh to fully appreciate the wonders of the Northern Lights in all its wonder.
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his rare and beautiful work of nature can be witnessed in Northern Europe at any moment between late September and early April; 9pm to 2am tends to be prime viewing time. 2012/2013 happens to be “Solar Maximum” period, which means more sunspot activity, so if you want to see this magnificent spectacle now is the best time. It is delightful how often the lights reveal themselves just as dinner is served or when you’re in the beautiful vistas of a European countryside or mountains.
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hen travellers come to the UK, the usual place they visit is London but there’s so much more to see and do outside of the country’s capital. Stone Henge, Lake District, the Scottish Highlands are some of the many diverse attractions the UK has to offer its travellers. Each city and town has its own story to tell and cultural and historical significance, all waiting to be explored.
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“There’s an assortment of attractions and activities to suit people from all walks of life in Manchester so you’re bound to fit in somewhere.” 294 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
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anchester is known for being a vibrant university city, home to one of the most renowned football teams in the world, Manchester United and hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2002. The city leads the way in urban regeneration and has gained a reputation for being the best place to shop, eat and drink and is thought to be the British music capital where bands like Oasis and the Stone Roses first came on the music scene. On the outskirts of Manchester is the Trafford Centre – the largest shopping centre in the UK which covers a mammoth area of thirty football pitches put together – which boasts over 250 shops and Europe’s largest food court, The Orient. The retail complex also includes the UK’s longest real snow indoor ski slope, an indoor skydiving tunnel, soccer dome and two 18-hole crazy golf courses so you literally will find everything you need all under one roof. Don’t forget to check out Manchester’s lively nightlife – the Northern Quarter is known for its alternative and quirky culture, Castlefield is a great spot for canal side dining and drinking or roam around Canal Street where you’ll find Manchester’s well-known Gay Village. There’s an assortment of attractions and activities to suit people from all walks of life in Manchester so you’re bound to fit in somewhere.
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eing the UK’s second largest city, Birmingham is right means it has easier and quicker links to the north and like Manchester and London are just a couple of ho
The bullring is at the heart of ‘Brum’ where you’ll find vario so much more to suit every budget and taste. Nearby designer and high-end boutique shops and a range o Brindleyplace canalside destination which is convenientl its array of bars and restaurants plus next to the Nationa tional Convention Centre (ICC). Brindleyplace is also ho Ikon Gallery and Crescent Theatre.
In the day jump aboard a canal boat and take a stroll by night treat yourself to a drink in one of the many bars d whole of Birmingham city centre comes alive.
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t bang in the centre of the UK which d south of the country. Popular cities ours away from the Midlands.
ous shops, restaurants, bars, cafes and you’ll find The Mailbox which features of different eateries and the dynamic ly positioned just off Broad Street with al Indoor Arena (NIA) and the Internaome to the National Sea Life Centre,
l through Birmingham’s waterways and dotted along Brindleyplace, when the
UK
Pay a trip to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery to catch a glimpse of the world’s largest collection of Pre-Raphaelites. Jewellery lovers, especially the ladies, will enjoy taking a stroll through The Jewellery Quarter. Chocoholics will feel like they’re in heaven at Cadbury World. Take a self-guided tour through the factory of the UK’s leading confectionary manufacturer where you’ll uncover a world of chocolate through 14 different zones and discover how chocolate is made from its origin of a cocoa bean to its wrapper.
“In the day jump aboard a canal boat and take a stroll through Birmingham’s waterways and by night treat yourself to a drink in one of the many bars dotted along Brindleyplace, when the whole of Birmingham city centre comes alive.” iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 297
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o trip to the UK is complete without paying a visit to the seaside. Brighton is famous for its pier with classic arcade games and fairground rides, stunning seafront and pebbled beach. This attraction is one of the most familiar sights seen on postcards and TV adverts in the UK so why not see it in the flash and don’t forget to take your picnic basket and deck chair.
The Lanes not only draws people in for being an incredible shopping attraction but its intricate maze of twisting alleyways. Here you’ll find a mix of history and heritage lingering amongst its antique, vintage, crafts, jewellery and boutique fashion shops and its quaint cafes and glorious restaurants.
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For outstanding views of Brighton, head for the dramatic Devil’s Dyke, a deep gorge cut into the cliffs of the coast where you can also take part in sports activities, fly a kite or sunbathe. Or if its great nightlife you’re looking for, look no further, Brighton hits all the right notes having the liveliest music and club scene on the south coast of the UK offering party-goers an eclectic range of musical tastes to suit everyone. Brighton offers visitors a unique mix of chic and sophisticated culture, rich heritage and cosmopolitan fun.
he right notes having nd club scene on the UK offering party-goers of musical tastes to suit yone.” iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 299
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iverpool became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2 front which includes the famous Albert Dock and Pier H of global landmarks such as Egypt’s Pyramids of Giza
Albert Dock is home to the Beatles Museum and Tate G world-class art like Picasso’s Weeping Woman. The ‘Thre magnificent threesome – Liver building, Cunard building cated at the Pier Head, both of these major attractions the UK. Hop aboard a ferry across the Mersey River to ge attractions.
The city was also named the European Capital of Cult itself and is the birthplace of the legendary rock band, t city take a ride on the 60-metre high rotating Echo Whe of Liverpool, its waterfront, the River Mersey and the Wels
“Liverpool has gained a worthy status of being a party city, from traditional pubs to trendy bars, you won’t be short of entertainment here.” 300 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
2004 – thanks to its remarkable waterHead – and now sits amongst the likes and the Great Wall of China.
Gallery which boasts a wide range of ee Graces’ is the name given to the g and Port of Liverpool building – los are well-renowned in Liverpool and et the best views of these magnificent
ture in 2008 which speaks volumes in the Beatles. For splendid views of the eel where you can take in the beauty sh Mountains.
UK
Liverpool has gained a worthy status of being a party city, from traditional pubs to trendy bars, you won’t be short of entertainment here. The city is home to two premier league football clubs: Liverpool and Everton so a passion and enthusiasm for football runs rich through Liverpool’s veins. If you want to add a touch of Oriental culture to your travels go to Chinatown where you’ll be welcomed with a striking 44 foot tall arch – that was custom-made in Shanghai and reconstructed in Liverpool and is designed with colourful dragons – which is the gateway to everything Chinese from its shops, restaurants, even litter boxes and street signs.
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dinburgh – the capital city of Scotland – is lined with rich history and superb architectural heritage even just walking along the city’s cobbled streets and dark alleyways, so there’s no surprise its been classed as a World Heritage Site. There are two main areas of interest: the Old Town which includes the medieval fortress of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, and the neoclassical Georgian New Town which dates back to the 18th century.
“Travel through time and across the planet at Dynamic Earth in the heart of Scotland where you journey to the centre of the earth and delve deep into its fascinating history” 302 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
UK
Edinburgh Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions which is home to the Scottish Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, the famous 15th century gun Mons Meg, the One O’ Clock Gun and the National War Museum. Travel through time and across the planet at Dynamic Earth in the heart of Scotland where you journey to the centre of the earth and delve deep into its fascinating history, wander through a tropical rainforest and feel the tremble of an earthquake.
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I c o n i c Lo n d o n
Iconic London When you visit London, it won’t surprise you if you see a tourist having their photo taken next to Big Ben, Tower Bridge or Buckingham Palace but it might surprise you to find others getting excited over being photographed next to a police officer. London is home to some of the most iconic images and culture in the world so when walking through one of the cities busy streets take your time to appreciate and enjoy what London has to offer- there’s a reason they were chosen to host the 2012 Olympics after all.
On the Street Turn a corner in London and blocking your view will no doubt be a big red double-decker bus. Turn another corner and we guarantee you’ll see the same. You’ll have to get several miles out of London before you stop seeing the big red buses so if you can’t beat them join them! If you fancy experiencing being a proper London tourist or if you purely want to get downtown then jump on. And if you want the full shebang then head to the open top deck for views of London. British police officers patrol areas of London daily so spotting them is easy. A traditional police officer will be dressed in all black with a ‘bobby’ (black helmet) attached to his or her head. Nowadays most officers will wear hi-visibility jackets but the bobby is still a popular choice. The British police are friendly and understand their iconic status so taking a picture with one won’t cause a problem but make sure you ask, or else you could get on the wrong side of the law. The red pillar-box (post-box) and red telephone box are probably two of the most iconic images of London. Both are dotted around the city in different shapes and sizes but their colour never differs. They’re both still in use frequently (although less frequently for telephone boxes as more and more people own mobile phones) and are home to Britain’s oldest history. The best thing about visiting a traditional British pub in London is the names you come across. The World’s End, Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese, the Old Bull & Bush and The Only Running Footman. Whilst you giggle along with your friends about the unusual names, why not tuck into the traditional pub-grub; pie and mash and a pint of beer. The interior may be dark dingy and old-fashioned but it just adds character to the 150year old pub you’re downing pints in.
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I c o n i c Lo n d o n
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What to Sample You can’t visit London and not take a bite out of a ‘fry-up’. The best and British way to enjoy it is when you’re suffering from a hangover. Not only is it the classic hangover cure but it is also the perfect way to start the day. Order the iconic ‘full English’ from a greasy spoon café and you’ll get bacon, fried eggs, grilled tomatoes, sausages, black pudding, fried mushrooms, hash browns and baked beans. Order a side of toast and an orange juice or tea and tuck in.
Fish and chips are traditionally served by the seaside but London fish and chips are just as good. Seek out a good fish and chips takeaway and your meal of battered cod or haddock (amongst other choices) and battered chips seasoned with salt and vinegar will come served in newspaper (the old-fashioned and iconic way to serve fish and chips). Pick out a side of mushy peas and wander round the streets pretending you’re ‘from London geezer!’ Being the largest tea consumers in the world proves how iconic tea is to Britain and to London. One sip and you’ll be hooked like the rest of us. We Brits love a ‘builder’s tea’- strong with lots of sugar- but how you take it is your preference. For the aristocratic in you, have a ‘cream tea’- a cup with an average amount of milk and sugar but enjoyed with scones, clotted cream and raspberry jam- and lots of it. Souvenirs The perfect London souvenir has the Union Jack splashed across it. Tee shirts, baseball caps, socks, umbrellas, you name it they make it. A collection of tea jars are also nifty souvenirs whilst black cab magnets and royal guardsman teddy bears remain popular for tourists and London citizens. Of course don’t be surprised if Olympian souvenirs overwhelm you next time you pop into a shop- London is still living off the hype.
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E n gl an d : A G r e at P l ac e t o S tudy
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here is no doubt that Oxford University is the best University to study business. The reputation of the world famous institution speaks for itself. The Saïd Business School is one of Europe’s youngest and most entrepreneurial business schools and has played an integral part in making Oxford University the place it is now. The School embodies the academic rigour and forwardthinking attitude that has made Oxford a world leader in education.
The University College of London is an exceptional institution for teaching languages. It is consistently ranked amongst the best universities in the world, due to its emphasis on innovative teaching and research excellence. It is values such as this that earned the college its first Nobel Prize in 2009. You can find out about the fees of studying at Oxford here in the near future. For 2012-13 the course fees are £9,000 for full-time home/EU undergraduates. Students can apply for bursaries for up to £3,500 a year, depending on household income.
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England A Great Place To Study T he Un ite d K in g d o m h as l o n g b e e n t h e t o p desti na ti on to study a broa d, a n d it do e sn ’t t ak e a ge n i u s t o f i gu r e o u t why. F or Engl i sh-spea k i n g st ud e n ts tr a ve llin g ab r o ad , i t ’ s a p l ac e w h e r e you don’t ha v e to be studyi ng a fo r e ig n lan gu age t o ge t b y . Le ar n i n g a l a ngua ge i s ha rd, ri ght? S o i f yo u c a n g e t aw ay w i t h d o i n g l e s s w o r k a nd sti l l studyi ng ov ersea s, al l the be tte r ! Th e U .K i s o n e o f t h e m o s t p o pul a r desti n a ti ons f or f i rstt i me va c a tio n e r s; i t ’ s t h e r e f o r e n o t s u r p r i s i n g tha t i t i s a l so popul a r wi th studen ts.
On the London hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tour, you’ll see all the magical sights of the sensational capital city in a comfortable and secure environment, above the crowds at street level aboard open top buses. Or you can watch a show at the world famous West End. Catch mind-blowing concerts at the fantastic arenas all over the United Kingdom. This doesn’t even being to scratch the surface with activities and sights in the United Kingdom as there are hundreds more just waiting for you to get in involved in whilst you’re not studying. In all seriousness, the United Kingdom offers some of the top study abroad opportunities, whether you’re talking about the bustling capital of London, Scotland’s historic capital city of Edinburgh, or any number of smaller cities and towns throughout England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. And if you’re studying theatre, literature, or history, the U.K is a great place to be. Oh, and about the language thing – don’t assume your English will be like their English. There are differences, albeit sometimes subtle ones, that can make for some pretty entertaining exchanges. iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 309
T h e Q u i r k s o f O x f o r d an d C a mbri dge
~ The Quirks of Oxfor
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ravelling half way across the world to study may seem excessive but if it’s to graduate at the university with the most Nobel Prize winners (Cambridge) or to attend the same one that 26 British Prime ministers did (Oxford) then it’s worth it. Oxford and Cambridge are the most prestigious universities in the UK and considered two of the best in the world but there’s much more to them than league tables. They hide a whole list of quirks so read on to find out why student life isn’t just brown buildings and old books. ~ Scholarships ~ Oxford is the only university in the world that grants the ‘Rhodes’ scholarship to international students. Considered the “world’s most prestigious award” those offered the scholarship can study a masters or second undergraduate degree in any subject they desire. Scholars receive a monthly maintenance to cover all accommodation fees and living expenses. The scholarship brings together students from a range of different countries all around the world. To find out more about the ‘Rhode’s’ scholarship visit the website here ~ Wealth ~ Cambridge is the not only the wealthiest university in the whole of the UK but also the whole of Europe. The university runs on a budget of over £1 billion per year and with so much money funded from the government and benefactors into Cambridge, the better its equipment, books and buildings are.
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The Q u i r k s o f O x f o r d an d C am b r i dge
rd and Cambridge ~
~ ‘Bump Racing’ ~ Oxford and Cambridge are renowned for their traditional, intense rivalry when it comes to rowing. It has become an annual event, is known across the world and screened live on TV. During the event ‘bump racing’, takes place when a number of boats chase one another attempting to catch and ‘bump’ with the one in front and is primarily used at both universities. ~ Graduation ~ During the Oxford and Cambridge graduation ceremonies, when the Praelector presents the graduate with their degree, they’ll read their speech in Latin. This tradition only takes place at the two universities and another quirk which helps them both to stand out from the crowd. ~ In the Media ~ Unlike some universities such as Harvard; Oxford and Cambridge allow films and television series to be filmed on site. Legendary buildings from both universities are recognised all around the world in valued films such as ‘An Education’, ‘Chariots of Fire’ and TV series ‘Inspector Morse’ and ‘Brideshead Revisited’. Studying at either university has meant an appearance in a famous film for several past students who have been chosen as extras.
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Wh i s k y T o u r s o f S c o t l a n d
Whisky Tours of Scotla To truly appreciate whisky in its finery there’s no other country to visit but Scotland. Home to the Famous Grouse, Johnnie Walker and Bell’s, Scotland is the king of whisky and the king of getting you merry. We’ve picked the best of the best for you whisky lovers out there. Enjoy! Whisky and Scotland Distillation of whisky has always been popular in Scotland. The country always had few grapes to make wine due to the weather so when barley beer was used instead, whisky was made. Whisky can be made from malted barley or grains depending on the type of whiskey. For example, blended malt whisky is made from malted barley, single malt is made from grains and blended whisky is made from both. Whisky doesn’t mature in the bottle, only in the cask so the ‘age’ is determined on the time between distilling and bottling. Aged whisky doesn’t necessarily mean a better taste and makeup. After an English Malt Tax was introduced most of Scotland’s distillation of whisky was shut down but there are still distilleries operating today.
Whisky Tours Glen Garioch Recently declared as the oldest distillery in the whole of Scotland, Glen Garioch sits on the very edge of the small town of Oldmeldrum in Aberdeenshire. The distillery produces a different variety of single malt whiskies particularly their popular 1797 founder’s reserve- a sweet whiskey with hints of butter cream and vanilla. If you fancy visiting the distillery it’s open for morning and afternoon tours Monday- Saturday and on Sunday at 1 or 5pm. The tours run between July and August only but VIP tours and group visits can be booked, these being especially popular around Christmas and New Year. To find out more about Glen Garicoh visit their website here. Oban The Oban distillery takes its name from the town it sits in, in the Highlands, Glasgow. Oban is home to a 14year old whisky which is sweet and creamy. If you pick to visit Oban for a tour, the distillery treats you to a tasting, watching the distillers at work crafting the rich sweet Oban taste and discount on a bottle to take home yourself. You’ll also receive a complementary free whisky glass as a gift from the distillery. Cheers! The Oban distillery is more flexible with its visiting times so visit their website for range of times and dates to suit you.
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and The Famous Grouse You can’t visit Scotland and not see how Famous grouse is made. Located in the city of Perth, the Grouse whisky tours run 9-6pm with limited times in January. There is a tour for everyone with the most popular being the ‘experience’ that shows you how Famous Grouse is distilled, includes two tastes and takes you to the skies in the distilleries BAFTA award winning interactive show. The ‘celebration’ tour has been set up to celebrate the Grouse’s 30th birthday. The ‘celebration’ features the ‘experience’ then allows you to head to the bar sample some of the Grouse malt range which included 5 tastes over all. This one is limited edition so hurry! Finally for the avid whisky fan the ‘warehouse’ let you tour the distillery, visit a sample room and try all the Famous Grouse range whilst watching the favourite tipple mature in a cask. Each tour ranges in price and experience. The Famous Grouse whisky tour is more than worth a visit but if a tour doesn’t interest you why not get married at the distillery? Famous Grouse provides an unforgettable day for the groom and bride-to-be. To find out more about the whisky and to book yourself on one of the tours visit the Famous Grouse website here. Something Special If one whisky tour isn’t enough why not join the only malt whisky trail in the world? With 9 distilleries to visit, the trail is famous for sending many a happy (and slightly merry) customer away. Each distillery features its own unique, traditional tour and recipe, of course. Benromach, Dallas Dhu, Cardhu, Glen Moray, Strathisla, Chivas Regal, Gle Grant, Speyside Cooperage and Glenfiddich are the nine distilleries that feature on the trail, each one more special than the last.
The trail is situated in the Highlands and each distillery tour offers something different, from Benromach’s modern approach showing DVD’s about the history of the distillery to a ‘bistro night’ at the Glenfiddich tour where the distillery offers bistro style meals every Friday evening in August with complementary glasses of (what else) Glenfiddich whisky. The trail really lends itself the phrase ‘something special’. To find out more about the trial and to book visit the malt whisky trail website here. Whisky Festivals Don’t underestimate the Scottish! Not content with holding whisky tours, Scotland also hold a number of well-loved and popular whisky festivals. The festivals offer an array of whisky related activities from masterclasses to exclusive tastings, and chances to visit distilleries that aren’t normally open to the public. Visit the ‘Spirit of Speyside’ five-day festival that takes place in May which includes free whisky food tasting and dancing. If you can’t make the summer then Speyside runs an autumn event which is held at the end of September. Or if you prefer a more musical take on whisky the ‘Islay Malt and Music’ offers local musical talent along with open days at plenty of distilleries over the course of a week. Find out more about Scotland’s whisky festivals by visiting the Scotland whisky website here.
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Dublin
Dublin More than just Guinness and leprechauns, this capital city of Ireland waves goodbye to many a happy folk every day. From tempting restaurants to buzzing nightlife to numerous department stores and a popular gay district Dublin has everything for the city break lover. Dublin is a cracking night out, after all the Irish do love to drink and 50% of citizens are under the age of 25. Temple Bar, south of the River Liffey could easily rival Camden in London. It comes alive at night, with famous pubs ‘The Porterhouse’ ‘The Turk’s Head’ and the traditional ‘The Quay’s bar’. Take a walk around Temple Bar and you’ll instantly see what all the fuss is about with street performers dazzling your sights and nightclubs twinkling in the distance. For a classier venue, Alchemy is Dublin’s hottest new club on the market and feature stylish decor and chic rooms. Sign up to be a member for free and you’ll receive complimentary entry on your birthday and a bottle of bubbly for you and five friends.
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The gay district in Dublin is always popular and well loved by the Irish. There are numerous festivals that feature at different times of year including the International Gay Theatre festival and the Dublin Pride festival that are hold at the gay district, located on Capel Street. For a fun, lively atmosphere like no other, head on down. Numerous gay bars in Dublin are as popular amongst the locals as they are the tourists; ‘The George’ and ‘Pantibar’ are famous for a gay night out.
Dublin
For a traditional Irish meal book a table at family run restaurant ‘Ely Bar & Brassiere’ and eat your body weight in hearty food. The restaurant is famous for supporting local Irish suppliers by sourcing their meat from the family’s own farm. The food is uncomplicated, great value for money and also offers a long cocktail, beer and wine menu so a merry evening won’t go amiss. If you’re a trendy tourist looking for a trendy eatery then KOH is the place for you. The menu features Thai, Chinese, Malaysian and European cuisine; an Asian Fusion, if you will. We highly recommend a visit, try the Aromatic Chilli Pork, order your favourite poison and enjoy your evening, full and happy.
If you fancy a more relaxing and historic day then Dublin is the city for culture and controversy. The city runs a medieval Celtic Christianity tour about the horrors of the bubonic plague and the unique Hellfire Club tour. The Hellfire tour ends on top of the Dublin Mountains and features many interesting (and controversial) settings and scenes. Not to be missed!
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G l as t o n b u r y F e s t i v al E x p e ri en ce
y r u b n o n t e s i a r e Gl p x
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s, Beyonce’s ‘Run the ud soaks through your wellie rs and you’re pushed world ’ blasts through your ea e of the biggest muon at ge sta a of nt fro the to ome to Glastonbury. sical events in history. Welc people buying tickThe festivals 2013 show had after a record time ets frantically on Sunday when ld. People were left so re we ts ke tic all s ute min of 1 hour 40 kes so why the big fuss? What ma devastated after missing out rience such a phenomena? pe ex al tiv fes ury nb to as Gl the illustrates how big Glastonbury The sheer size of the festival to Somerset, the site stretches is. Held on Worthy Farm in double the size of the Olympic n tha re mo t’s tha res ac 00 1,1 equivalent of 550 football the is d an rs we To on Alt d Park an lds festival goers camp on the fie pitches. Each year 150,000 ’ music festival in the world. making it the largest ‘greenfield rformed at Glastonbury! pe s ha ne yo an o’s wh ne Ever yo n roll with the likes of popular Traditionally it was very rock In lining at the very first show. hippy British band T.Rex head al moved with the favourable tiv fes the r, ve we ho s 90 19 the is, Blur and Pulp to headas O ed ok bo d an era p’ ‘Brit po ved towards generatmo s ha al tiv fes the ys da line. Nowa to dience by booking Beyonce ing a more contemporar y au and Jay-Z in 2008- although sb hu r he d an ar ye t las line head lled it a ‘mistake’ causing ca er gh lla Ga el No r sta is ex-Oas een the two. The 2013 line-up controversy and a rivalr y betw t ours are already circulating tha is yet to be released but rum even the Rolling Stones could or s, ith Sm e Th s, se Ro ne Sto The inging back the old days br y all nti te po er mm su xt ne headline of British rock-n-roll.
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Glas t o n b u r y F e s t i v al E x p e r i e n ce
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lastonbury runs 45 different sta ges every year the main attrac with tion being the ‘Pyramid ’ where the mainstream all musicians play. It ’s a festival err to take one loo or k the headliners listed and choo not go based se on the Eavis’s fa cisions. There mily ’s booking d are plenty of st eages to keep bands that hea you busy and dline the third stage are ofte to headline th n big enough e main stage at a different fe Reading and Le stival such as eds. You will fin d hidden treats Fatboy Slim oft everywhere, en does surpris e gigs and Pete been found ran Doherty has domly playing in a bar at the fe Thursday night. stival on the One thing we recommend as avid Glastonbu is to find a sta ry attendees ge with a line-u p you like and a few bands ra stick there for ther than chop and change e mance. Trying ach perforto see Cee Lo Green on the se who finishes 15 cond stage minutes before Morrissey starts stage is a batt on the main le you won’t win . Getting throu of people who gh the masses are tr ying to m ake the same trudging throug journey whilst h knee deep m ud can make it It ’s best to keep far too difficult. your spot and e njoy the music. It ’s possible to g o to Glastonbu ry not just for the are plenty of n music. There on-musical attra ctions on offer enjoy listening to for those who Tony Benn’s po pular political ta who want to ca lks or those rr y on the party, the dystopian, ‘B inspired village lade Runner’ ‘Shangri-La’ is o pen every year.
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Goi n g t o G l as t o n b u r y w i t h o u t a Ti ck et
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sold out instantaneously ickets for Glastonbury 2013 who missed out, sincerely last Sunday leaving those days when security was disappointed. Gone are the ts could easily gateke tic ut ho wit se tho d an ed relax s it someone even mancrash the festival. Legend ha tunnel to subtly sneak into the nd ou rgr de un an dig to ed ag to go to such extremes to ed ne r ge lon no u yo w No festival! work it, and get in for ply sim n ca u Yo t. ke tic a ut get in witho free.
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Go in g t o G l as t o n b u r y w i t h o u t a T i ck et
without a Ticket Work as a steward for Ox fa
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Oxfam organises stewarding every year for Glastonbury and 2013 will be no exception. Along with the sec means you’re the eyes and ears of urity staff, being a steward the festival. Duties of stewards inc lude answering ticket-holders quest reporting safety issues. However ste ions, monitoring crowds and wards are warned against getting inv olved in the securities responsibilitie result in being stripped of your duty. s and failure to listen could Stewards are required to work three eight hour shifts and will need to be available for the full onsite dates bu have access to all of the festival an t once you’re off duty you d are free to enjoy it in your own wa y. Your other perks include meal tick Oxfam campsite with your new friend ets and camping on the s and hot showers. Becoming an Oxfam steward is ea sy, no previous experience is nece ssary as training is required. You’ll teered before but there are always be prioritised if you’ve volunplaces for new stewards. Just log on to Oxfam’s official website and registe work at Glastonbury for free and for r here for your chance to a good cause.
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Goi n g t o G l as t o n b u r y w i t h o u t a Ti ck et
r e e t n u l o v d i A Be a First
cal volunteer for Festival di me te -si on an me co y to be staff, to name a few. alifications you can appl d qu ai d t ai firs t d firs an or c sts di ci me ma ra ar cs, ph dical, pa rs, doctors, nurses, paramedi int If you currently hold any me po ap to damage from loudspeake ok ing lo S ar he FM s, y. rn ur bu nb s sto ga la G ing at mp ca Medical Services (FMS) en mind as there may be at Glastonbur y tend to be r op cu an oc ep at ke th s to int la ed mp ne s co er th lunte Common injuries and heal name a few. Medical vo to n, io at dr hy de d an e hygien stomach bugs from bad dealt with before. d complaints they haven’t t a chance at meeting an ge en ev d an s nd ba ite favour nbur y for free, see your n (of any sort) and an up sto io la at G ific e al nc qu l rie ca pe di ex me to t a l ge l need During your time off, you’l a volunteer for FMS you’l the application form. in ng fill mi d co an r be y ste nc gi fa re u to yo If ite webs over. vered by FMS. Visit their treating Jay-Z for a hang co is ng ini tra d an ce an eck. Insur to-date, cleared CRB ch
Litter Pick Glastonbur y has a re putation for being ‘g reen’. Running the sh festival goers to tra owers on solar pow vel to the festival b er, encouraging y bus and planting ways the festival is he over 10,000 trees a lping the planet. re just some of the Their extensive recycl ing programme app oints 1,300 litter pic for a ticket. The dut kers, 1,200 of them w ies are simple; the cl ork in exchange ean up lasts throug there are even som hout the duration o e jobs in the recycl f the festival and ing centre which allo volunteer once it is w you to enjoy the finished. This means festival and then you get to enjoy eve the disruption of wo ry last bit of the mus rk and then carry o ic festival without n the Glastonbur y e days. What’s even xperience by camp better, Glastonbur y ing for the extra founder Michael Ea to chat, take picture vis often drops by th s and even join in re e recycling centre cycling. A campsite is set up for litter pickers to us e for you can take drinks tents, free hot advantage of the ch drinks, hot showers a eap food and nd indoor toilets. Yo requirements to beco u don’t need to ha me a litter picker at ve any special Glastonbur y next ye fields up. Initially pre ar, just a dedication vious volunteers are to cleaning the contacted first but via email. the festival accepts all applications 320 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
Go in g t o G l as t o n b u r y w i t h o u t a T i ck et
s k n i r d d n a d Sell foo
the festival kicks off. Whe th s a n o so s a y ur nb o last t a free pass into the rent stalls that run at G ge iffe d f nd o a ty er th rie ei va o a d re to a ible There rking at them, it’s poss apply to become a wo r to o nt em wa th u g yo in If nn it! ru g re in re do er you a n depending on me money while you a se so o rn ch ea re a t, s ye er r d te tra et b nd alls a festival and visit w for all varieties of st no en p o to become a trader re up a n ns sig tio a To lic ll. p a p st a f , o er e d siz tra the number of staff and ts, uc d ro p r ei th f o e ric the p list here. the official signing up uch with charities to in ng tti ge rth wo s it’ ver spare sell the clothes howe nd a ks rin d e see if they ’re after a th e nd rv a se l a to iv r st fe fe re e p th u t a yo If w stalls ey know so if you kno nd Fairtrade who run th a le p ce eo ea p p t ui en cr re re G s ly a st mo such ys require staff but they a lw a s er d a Tr on. s. nd ha pair of touch with them early in t ge y ur nb o st la G any traders who go to festival experience. y ur nb o st la G e th to ht in article giving an insig ws rro o m to r fo d ne tu Stay
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Snowbombing
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ve acts i l g n i t a r a l i h x and most e t s e t t o h e h t iums and f d o a e t s n o e s h t a d d e n i m h i e Accla e leaving b b l l i w ue gig q N i n IA u B y A l S u r A t K a , on earth in favour of o t d e peaks. m n o i t a s t u n c c u o a e m ’r d y e arenas the d snow-capp n a r i a r e t n itably outi u w s p a s i e r d c i v y o b r p d l e l l encirc pearance wi p a d e t a p i c i t the greatest n “ a – y l l a r v e i g r a t e u r o i e h Th n event wit a o t x a m i l c d l of-this-wor ! show on snow” apex of e h t t a g n i r a e only be app t o n l l to ani s w e d s i d s a l l l i e h r i e h h s t r be scaling o The Leiceste s l a l l i w t u b exclusive , y p l u e t e e l n i p l m o ’s c l a d v the festi a second an m r o f r e p y e d crest of a h e t p s p o a t t i r e m d m w o u p s e other et up on th e f 0 0 0 6 w o h s and intimate mountain.
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Sn spe owbo ing nt sk mbin fro in t iing g is E cha m wo he sp /boar urop r a d e nt ed ld cl of a ing ’s la , a for r est ss ac 5* H enjoy gest ote ing sno cle ts l i ari . N n mu w an ng un d m . M iqu ight sic ys e ve s de on m usi c tic l n al, ues; iver ount fest mu fro cutt ain ival m sic . i a s ng e top s Day al, s wit ky- dge tag hou hig per es o are r f h t e qu iglo orma rela al. o, nc xto e an s en -
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Snowbombing
Why wait until Glasto nbury to kick off festiva l season when you can delve right into things as early as April? Prices start from £319 for accomm odation and all the entertain ment. So don’t be shy, secure your place at the world’s greates t and wackie st show on snow.
/ 4 S E G A T TAIN S N U ARD O W M A 5 1 / / NUES ARTY E P V T E E U E KM OF Q R I 9 T 3 N S 6 U / G 4 N 1 S / / 1 POOL S 0 STRO D 0 E N I 0 1 WEEK , A R 5 O S / 8 SPA F MEM AVES 1 O R / S O K N O R O L I A IG / MILL ARD P O S B H G G N U I WINN SS LA E L T N U CO PISTE / BING M O B W SNO
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S p ai n
Spain What a glorious country Spain is. They have given us paella and Penelope Cruz and welcome us with open arms whenever we visit. Spain is full of interesting and remarkable culture that can’t be replaced or forgotten. Traditional Spanish bull-fighting is hard to find these days as animal-rights activists have aided the abandonment of the sport. Despite this, it naturally falls on the ‘to-do’ list when visiting Spain and it’s defiantly worth hunting one out for an entertaining afternoon. In most cities, bull-fighting is now banned but fortunately Madrid still holds the shows at their two bullrings- Vista Alegre and Las Vents. The city also holds bullfighting festivals, with the most famous festival ‘Pamplona Running of the Balls’ being held in July that features bullfights and bull runs. Spanish food is famous for leaving you wanting more. One of the best Spanish dishes to try is tapas but why not free tapas? In the small city of Granada, walk into a bar and restaurant and your tapas will come free when you order a drink. Another famous dish, paella shouldn’t be ignored in replace for Spanish pizza or spaghetti; try food from its origin. Seafood paella is the classic favourite but for a difference, take a trip to Valencia and dabble in the cities meat paella, the original dish.
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A trip to Spain wouldn’t be comp lete without a visit to Barcelona. Take a walk up to the Roman Catholic Church, the Sagrada Familia that boasts a beautiful int erior and exterior. Barcelona cathedral, port and football ground are also worth visiting and we urge you to see the Magic Fountain of Montjuic once it gets dark, every night it is lit up in different colours. For the best treat of them all, go and see a flamenco show. The shows ca n be found anywhere; we personally recom mend you head to Seville or Madrid for an un-missable performance that we guara ntee will release your inner dancer. Sp ontaneous performances can break out anywhere from gypsy weddings to prisons but you’ll still get an authentic show if yo u pay to see one. Combine watching a show with food and wine (a ‘tablaos’) or pop into a flamenco bar for a more info rmal affair of guzzling sangria and dancing your own version of the flamenco.
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B e r n ab o u & T h e N o u C amp
Bernabou & The No
watch El Classico, Over 450 million people tune in to lry of all time. They making it the biggest football riva rld, who in Cristiano are two of the best teams in the wo ch have one of the Ronaldo and Lionel Messi they ea ng between these best footballers of all-time. The meeti atre, and there are two giants is not just a game, its the to watch it unfold. no two better auditoriums in the world ain, a visit to both That is why if you’re holidaying in Sp is essential. Witness The Bernabou and The Nou Camp cesses and the intrithe sheer scale, the history, the suc a day-to-day basis. cacies of how each club is run on
Madrid as a Football City... ving and passionThe atmosphere in Madrid is fun-lo ’s largest, it is a very ate; as are its inhabitants. As Spain an exciting nightlife. modern and cosmopolitan city, with d when an El ClasIf you’re lucky enough to be in Madri ough to possess a sico comes around, but not lucky en go? Well, Madrid’s ticket to the game, where do you erience an amazing Irish bars are a fan favourite to exp r of drunken antics. atmosphere and witness all manne beside Plaza de la The James Joyce Irish Pub, located rts bar through and Cibeles in central Madrid, is a spo en you enter is that through. The first thing you will spot wh l fans, as the pub is the ceiling is plastered with nationa around the globe. usually packed with sports fans from mmoth screens, alIt is darkly lit and possesses three ma ever you’re standlowing you to watch the game where biggest match of ing. So, if you want to experience the tball-mad place, the season in a loud, rowdy and foo st bet. the James Joyce is definitely your be
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ou Camp
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B e r n ab o u & T h e N o u C amp
Barcelona as a Football City... To walk down Las Ramblas in the centre of Barcelona; one of the busiest streets in the world, is to get a taste of what Barcelona is all about. This is a fast-pace, vibrant city that’s a little crazy at times. Sports Bar Ramblas can be found towards the end of the famous street, and the bar does exactly what it says on the tin. It screens a wide range of sporting events, but El Classico is without a doubt its main event. A wide array of football shirts and sports memorabilia hangs from its walls, alongside sixteen of the biggest TV screens money can buy. Sports Bar Ramblas gives this epic meeting the respect it deserves, by broadcasting it in the finest HD. If you’re not keen on over-the-top Spanish commentar y, games are always screened in Spanish and English simultaneously at separate corners of the bar. Finally, unbeatable beer deals will keep you entertained even if the game doesn’t live up to expectations, although it rarely disappoints.
Nou Camp Stadium Tour... The Nou Camp stadium tour is the most popular in the world. The first thing to say about it is that it is a selfguided tour that takes around two hours to complete. This means that you can move at your own pace, and although tour guides are available at a price, their absence is made up for by the many detailed displays that are scattered around the ground. As you walk out into the gigantic caldron, you will be astounded by The Nou Camp’s size. looking down from the dizzying heights of the press box, you realise the unfathomable
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Bernabou Stadium Tour... The Bernabau is also self-guided and is as equally well-run. The best way to experience The Bernabau is with a spectacular panoramic view from atop of the stands, and the tour allows you to do exactly that. So be transported to the very top via escalator and take a look around. Then, head down onto the pitch and sit in the dugout, where Real Madrid charismatic manager Jose Mourinho barks his orders from each week. Being the world’s most successful club ever, the Real Madrid trophy room is like no other. Having conquered Europe nine times in their history, there is a mass of trophies for visitors to have their photographs taken with. Next door is their state-of-the-art museum, equipped with touch screen panels, telling you all you need to know about El Galacticos’ fruitful past and plans for the future.
Watching a Match... The Nou Camp houses 99,000 screaming, passionate fans, and the Bernabau has a capacity of 85,000; meaning that these two juggernauts dwarf most of the football stadiums in England. There no better place to watch from then the Barcelona’s Lateral stand, which accommodates the biggest section of home fans. This makes for a truly rocking atmosphere, deafening cheers and first class views of the pitch. As for the Bernabau, there is not a great deal of different between each stand; each one being known for its incredible steepness. The height of the stands creates a concerto of noise, so that the operatic Madrid anthem “Hala Madrid” can be heard being loudly sung by thousands of Madrid fanatics. English fans speak with admiration of the magic of the cup; that one-off special occasion where two teams fight for survival under a flood-lit spotlight. Fans of La Liga on the other hand, share that experience on a weekly basis. Unlike the Premier League which generally kicks-off at 3pm on a Saturday afternoon, La Liga enjoys far more of a spectacle with their magnificent night games. These floodlit, warm Spanish nights carry with them an air of glamour. Spanish football gives fans ‘the beautiful game’ on the grand stage that it deserves, and they don’t come much grander than these two coliseums, home to Real Madrid and Barcelona.
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H o t t e s t N i gh t c l u b s i n I b i za
g i N t s e t t o H e h T In
a z i Ib
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affectionately known as here are reasons why Ibiza – the clubbing capital ‘beefa’ – has been named as ly heard a few, if not ab ob pr e u’v yo d an rld wo of the utation speaks for itself most of these reasons. The rep ts like Judgement Sunbut it can’t hurt to name even ich have seen some of wh s ck Ro za Ibi d an i nd Ka d days, He try has to offer, perform. the best artists, the music indus d teran or newbie, you’re boun ve ed on as se a e u’r yo r the Whe clubbers paradise. So we s thi in life ur yo of e tim the to have s for clubbing in Ibiza. bring you the best destination
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Pacha
usivative and creative m no in st o m e th y nl o e pect to se e of them making the m At Pacha you can ex so d fin ll u’ yo y a sd e , ever y Thur main room with a larg e th cians’ grace the stage in st lo et G s. m eir party anthe rs and VIP areas, all a b l ra ve crowd go wild with th se th wi ng lo the in the centre a hing different, step into dance floor right bang et m so g in el fe re u’ yo f the DJ. If o touch. The roof terisc d with fantastic views o nd a l fu ul so re o m imusic has a ilst enjoying the beaut wh ir, funky room where the a sh fre f o th a re to catch a b ious cocktails. Each ic el d nd race is a great place a s he uc co ple unge music, cosy here which graces peo ful view of Ibiza with lo sp o tm a ng tli us b a to omed in night you will be welc . from all over the world
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Space
d Space - a stag lle a c e c la p a is there place really lives super clubs, then ly e nd liv a is s b th lu ls, c ve re le a three There the anza built across g va ra xt e ly different vibe to m te o le ro p x m o c a s gering si ha om to putation. Each ro is the place to be e c a p S s. rld o w up to its goliath re rent heralded as the y they are like diffe n sa fte y o a n m a e m m e so th r; e e se oth ic in Clubland and us m st te la e th e c embra time, Carl Cox. greatest DJ of all
Amnesia
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The idea behind the club Amnesia is to express a pla out at night, forg ce where people et their problems can go and indulge in a away from the ord wonderful unknow inary. The club ha n world far s seen legendary Van Dyke, Pendu club figures such lum and Deadmo as: Paul u5 grace its four making people lo walls. Amnesia ha se themselves in s a habit of a world full of the awesome vibe. latest clubbing m usic with an
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Privilege t you hear about Privilege, you won’t be The World’s biggest club, no matter wha g in Privilege really is a privilege. With prepared for such an accolade – partyin will keep you in awe. In fact all b clu ga me this r ga han ft cra air an like a main e. Needless to say the music ileg priv into fit uld co a Ibiz in bs clu er the other sup rld-class DJs like Armin Van Buuren and is nothing but the best, being home to wo re you can rave in the most exclusive Paul Oakenfold. Privilege is a place whe ose setting. parties and in a spectacular and grandi
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Es Paradis Arguably, the most beautiful clu b on the island is Es Paradis, an d it certainly lives up to its name. The club is an en chanting garden labyrinth and oozes class. With an enticing glamorous style, Es Paradis has the habit of dazzl ing any clubber. Coming to Es Paradis is alm ost seen as a rite of passage to the Ibiza nightlife and is one of the best place s to come for the renowned wa ter parties they host. With world class music in a dazzling atmosphere, Es Paradis is one of the original charms of Ibiza’s nightligh t. These are just a handful of the me ga clubs that make Ibiza the clu bbing capital. Each club has an atmosphere of its own and just visiting one of the se puts the cherr y on top of your Ibiza expe rience.
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e c e e Gr Greece
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es, we’re aware of the recession struggles Greece has been dealing with don’t let that stop you from visiting this enchanting and fascinating count limit your time in Greece to just sunning yourself on the beach when there and do.
The Parthenon temple is more than worth a visit since it’s survived since 4 the goddesses Athena, the temple is the symbol of Greece and benea rich history. Due to its fragile condition the Parthenon, that sits on Acrop Athens, is only open for visitors to walk around the outside, but once the soak up the history, view beneath you and sun (naturally).
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h the past few years but try. When you visit, don’t e is so much more to see
447 BC. Dedicated to ath its pillars lays a polis Hill in ere you can
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hen it comes to drinking and eating, head to the trendiest spot in Athens- Gazi. The former gas-works, Gazi defiantly lends itself to the phrase ‘it comes alive at night’. Up Pireaos Street and by Persefoni Street is the heart of Gazi where lies enough restaurants, cafes and bars to shake a Greek kebab stick at. Sardeles, a seafood restaurant comes highly recommended but we really push you to try their wild boar sausages. The restaurant grills any meat you like from venison to boar and compliments all meals with cheese and fine organic Greek salad with plenty of vinaigrette and olive oil, of course. If you fancy a drink then pop on over to the Gazarte, an entertainment complex that features a cinema, live music and a renowned cocktail bar that sits on a terrace with olive, pomegranate and lavender trees for company. Enjoy a refreshing cocktail in the cool summer night. For something a bit different than ruins and wild boar pop along to the Thission outdoor cinema but remember the popcorn! It’s been voted one of the best outdoor cinemas so you know it’s got to be good. At dusk, once you’ve taken you’re seat; the view of the glowing Parthenon comes into sight. The Thission cinema typically shows the Hollywood classics; ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ and ‘Rear Window’ have previously graced the Thission projector screen. The owners of the cinema even offer all guests their home-made sour cherry juice with brown sugar, fresh cheese pie and tsipouro (Greek brandy) so don’t be afraid to over-indulge, it’s a compliment
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Greece ~A Clubbers Haven~
The
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exams or presof s es str e th If s. ay lid ho ng reece is the king of clubbi friends, a suitt es os cl ur yo ab gr u, yo to sure of university is getting to your choice of Greek ay aw r fa fly d an s he ot cl case full of beach once you’ve partied in is, n tio es qu e Th . rty pa p island for a non-sto alia? The way we see M in ng bi ub cl m fro u yo g Zante who’s stoppin see them all. to t go ve u’ yo s; film r tte Po it they ’re like the Harry
The G r e e k I s l an d s : A Cl u b b e r s H a v en
Islands
~ Malia, Crete
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ny avid party-goer worth their salt (and tequila) knows that Malia is a clubbers heaven. It’s the kind of holiday that has you spending hours uploading your photos to Facebook once you’re home and is the ‘Inbetweeners’ choice of clubbing destination. So raise a shot and just like the boys shout ‘here’s to being players!’ Malia’s popular clubs include Safari Club, Apollo, Candy Club, Corkers, Banana Club, Zigzag and Lush Bar. With each playing different types of music (cheese, RnB, dance, pop, house, chart etc), super cheap drinks flowing all night and huge slices of cheap pizza for sale at 4am Malia is the perfect island for the broke student; you take minimal spending money and flights and accommodation are always pretty cheap. If you don’t fancy the pool every day, the main beach that lies opposite the strip is Pleasure Beach. Pay €10 for the week and you’ll get given a ticket that guarantees you a sun-bed and umbrella, access to the restaurants and bars, all the water sports on offer and chart tunes all day until 6pm when it starts to close. We understand that sunning yourself by the pool or beach every day can get boring, so don’t hesitate to book you and your friends onto a booze cruise. We know it sounds tacky but believe us its pure innocent fun (well almost). With endless amounts of drink, BBQ food, music, sea, people and drinking games at €50 a pop they’re legendary in Crete so don’t miss out. To experience a proper Malia holiday you’ll need to hire yourself a quad bike to whiz around the strip. Walking along the strip in the middle of the day just isn’t acceptable in Malia, quad bikes swarm like flies along the roads so if you can’t beat them join them! Package holidays to Malia start from £304.
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Kardamena, Kos
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here’s no denying that Kos is the perfect clubbing holiday. It’s filled to the brim with clubs, restaurants and beaches to keep you going into the early hours and until you ‘Pass Out’ just like Tinie Tempah. It’s unheard of to travel all the way to Kardamena and not party on the beach till the early hours. Watch the sunset on the resorts busiest beach listening to festival music provided by the islands resident DJs. Tuck into the free BBQ on offer and organise your plan of action for the night ahead. Once you’re tipsy and dressed to impress head out to Bar Street where walking up you’ll hear everything from indie to house to urban anthems. One night it’s worth spending a little bit longer at the pool, getting dressed into clothes you’re not bothered about ruining (preferably fancy dress) and heading on down to the famous foam party held every Tuesday at Starlight nightclub. Its great fun but in all seriousness take some sunglasses or goggles because your eyes will sting. During the day there are heaps of beaches, bars and water sports to take part in so sit back, order a mojitio and send us a postcard!
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Laganas, Zante
S
unning yourse lf on Laganas beach, jet-skii shots with the ng in a warm bar staff in Re blue sea and scue night clu won’t forget it downing b , w elcome to a Z in a hurr y. ante holiday. You Zante boasts a 300m-long strip of neon mend clubs a nightlife that fe nd bars. Hea atures our top d to a cheese-filled Cherr y Bay th recomat sits right on night out or if th y e beach front ou belong in it plays RnB a a crowd then for nd house mus Rescue offers ic into the ea its main room, just this, rly hours and outside bar a c a n n fi t 2,000 peop du and your frien le in ds to do the ‘G pstairs terrace so there’s ple nty of room fo angdem style’. to watch the r you We also urge crazy bar gam you to stop b es the staff ta cocktails, and y Zeros ke part in and fishbowls, natu F is hbowl for the rally. Drinks ra for a bottle of finest nge from £2.5 wine but durin 0 for a beer g September season, the PR to £4.50 and October promoters will w h en the resort is offer you 2 for out of 1 cocktails an d s h o ts There are ple for free. nty of tasty ta keaways on L munchies at b aganas strip ay but when y to keep the la o u ’r e antics ahead, preparing to li te-night visit Horizon, it ne your stoma c re h s ts on the beac for the evening After the friend h front and rem ’s ly waiters hav ains a firm favo e severed yo they entertain u your delicio urite. you with Gree us food and k dancing and free shots successfully pe rs u a de you to join Zante’s beac in. hes are gorge ous enough to chuck on som persuade you e dark sungla to take some sses and leav through your h aspirin, e your hotel ro angover. With o m to sweat your jet skis, speedb you ’ll be feelin way oats and sea g better in no turtle spotting time. on offer
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Faliraki, Rhodes
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aliraki is the cream of the crop, the crème de la crème; the best of the best. When it comes to deciding what Greek clubbing holiday to pick don’t hesitate to pick Faliraki. A holiday to Faliraki is like a diamond in the rough. Hidden beneath its reputation lies a wild holiday with scorching temperatures. It becomes alive in the summer and is one of the busiest party resorts in the Mediterranean. It’s filled with the best of the best nightlife, restaurants and beaches to keep you going into the early hours and until you ‘Pass Out’ just like Tinie Tempah. For the best variety of music and 2 4 1 cocktails head to ‘Cactus’ bar, it’s the perfect place to start the night. Monday nights in Faliraki are all about ‘Paparazzi’. Throw on your best outfit and head on over to club ‘Bed’ for fireworks, DJs and cocktails. Even whilst you queue you’ll feel like a celebrity with the famous ‘Bed’ red carpet beneath your feet. Don’t miss ‘Matrix ’ when you’re in Faliraki; it hides a chill out garden at the back and features three floors offering different music on each one, it’s the place to be any night of the week. Faliraki has plenty of Chinese, Indian and Italian restaurants to tickle your fancy. For a delicious steak hunt down ‘Sizzlers Steak Bar’ that dedicates itself to giving you the best steak and sauce you’ve ever tried. And for the hungry clubber there are numerous fast food joints so why not try one every night? With pizza, burgers, chips and kebabs, you’ll never go hungry.
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y n a m r Ge G e r m an y
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hink of Germany as your new favourite country, you may as well think of it because you’ll soon be saying it. The Germans love a party so expect drinking, dancing and cultural delights for even the most timid of party animals. We’ve already mentioned drinking so why not start with beer tasting at a brewery? The Germans love their beer and are proud of it and we say why not! Kolsch beer is from the city of Cologne which is where you’ll find the brewery. When you walk round, you’ll be swapped with information about the famous beer, how it’s made and how it should be drunk and served but the best part of the brewery is that waiters and waitresses walk around all day handing out ‘samples’. Cheers!
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ootball is BIG in Germany. They’re avid supporters and players and boy are they good! If you get a chance, visit one of the famous stadiums; ‘Signal Iduna Park’ is the biggest and ‘Olympiastadion’ that sits in Berlin is breath-taking to see. Catch a match if you can, for an incredible atmosphere you can’t go wrong.
Obviously a visit to Germany is incomplete without visiting Berlin and Munich. Whatever you do, don’t forget about the Berlin Wall. The restored stretch of the wall that remains, holds an incredible and brave history behind it so don’t deny it a visit. Take a walk along the wall by the spree and see the East Side Gallery which is dedicated to the famous graffiti art and preserves all the paintings. How about you take a surfing lesson in Munich? We know it sounds crazy but trust us, it’ll be worth it. The city may well be land-locked but this hasn’t stopped eager surfers playing on the Eisbach River to create enough waves for some serious board action. The German surfers ignore the ‘No Surfing’ sign and instead get stuck in, so about joining them? They’re famous for being friendly so ask for a lesson and take to the river. Surfs up!
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G e r m an y
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Oktoberfest
t s e f r e b o Okt
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ktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival annually held in Munich, Germany. The 16-day festival attracts over 6 million people from all around the globe who consume around 1.5 million gallons of beer, 480,000 spit-roasted chickens and 200,000 sausages (Würstl). Other German dishes include Schweinebraten (roast pork), Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick), Schweinshaxe (grilled ham hock), Brezeln (pretzel), Reiberdatschi (potato pancakes) and Bavarian delicacies like Weisswurst (white sausage). Large tents are plotted on Theresienwiese (“the field of Therese”) which serve beer from German’s well-known breweries where people can enjoy live music played by German bands and eat native food all the while celebrating old-fashioned German and Bavarian heritage and culture. The tradition began in 1810 to celebrate the marriage of Bavarian Crown Price Ludwig to the SaxonHildburghausen Princess Therese where people were invited to join in with the festivities. Subsequently, anniversaries were celebrated in the following years and the festival gradually got larger and expanded to the point where it is now one of the most renowned festivals in the world.
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Oktoberfest
Elements of the original festival have changed over time; horse races are no longer held and the agricultural show is held every four years. The main features of Oktoberfest now are beer, food and merriment. On the first Sunday of the festival the Costume and Riflemen’s Processions takes place where thousands of performers dressed in traditional costumes parade through the streets of Munich. The second Sunday consists of an open-air big band concert. Visitors can also enjoy the fairground rides, roam around the haunted house and check out the flea circus amongst many other things. The festival will run between 22 September to 7 October. It is one of Munich’s largest and most profitable tourist attractions. For more information please visit http://www.oktoberfest.de/en/
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F r an c e
E C N A R FCountry of Romance and Culture
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r a n c e is o n e of t h e m o s t v i s i t e d c o u n t r i e s i n the w o r ld a n d w it h go o d r e as o n ; i t i s a c o u n try tha t c a te r s to yo u n g c o u p l e s l o o k i n g t o c e l e b r ate thei r lo ve . So fo r y o u m e n t h at h at e r o m an c e , ca n dl el i t d in n e r s a n d t r e at i n g y o u r gi r l f r i e n d s and wi v es g r it yo u r te e th b e c au s e t h i s gu i d e w i l l c ause you ni g htm a r e s.
partner for r u o y e k a t o t may want u o y s ’t b e s h y ) i r n a o P d n n i e d m e ( v i s r d r n a Having Holding ha . r e w o T l e f n c e ’s m o s t f i a r E F e h d t n d u o n r u a o r k l p a tri relaxing wa a r o f sh to see i e w n o t y a e h m t t u e o s y p l n will he e settled i ’v u o y Opera e e c h n t O r o . l n e o p i a s s h e c s s prized po lass-stained g e t i s i u q x e elp soak up h n a o t , e t l l n e e p a m h n i C a e t Saint bit of enter a r o f 5 7 8 1 n i d for. e n w o n e r Garnier built e r a s the Parisian e r u t l u c t a e r g the
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F r an c e
Men also should be aware Par you come is is the f to Paris w ashion ca ith shopah it stored o pital o l i n your de cs, you m bit cards ay want t Ralph Lau as your w o ren! allet may take
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F r an c e
Carryin g o n the tr e n d o f b u y i n g y o u r p ar t n e r s the l a test f a shi o n bra n ds, g ir lfr ie n d s w i l l b e e n t h r al l e d at h avi ng C ha nel a n d L’Orea l c o sm e tic s a v ai l ab l e t o t h e m . P ar i s i s awa sh wi th cosmeti c st o res tha t p r o vid e c r e am s an d l o t i o n s t o k e e p y ou l ov el y women l o o ki ng yo u n g a n d p r e t t y f o r y o u r p ar t n e r s . P erha ps some C a l v i n Kl e in a fte r sha ve w i l l b e r e q u i r e d f o r y o u r b etter ha l v es shoul d t hey re e k a ta d o f b o d y o d o u r !
esr e n f fi o r e why b d m n u od a e deshe n o t t m u g o lat ntic o n a c i o y m h r o y c a r auut t t e o m s t a h e a e t r e i r he c is w wn to cr star t r xtra a n r e i P o l e n o t e i h c a er vis an s kn e Meuri Mic c d i t r o f t o i d o n o o s r can e. Fo ters in L y numbe t forget t th you a r e You h wi n’ an nts oys o a e d m e r r o h t u a o t ta out here go to, jus o your r T y r . t ceo n k t a c a not c a M b u e in k yo serts in Paris gne to ta a s rant of champ isiac! e od bottl reat aphr g be a
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F r an c e
But m a feren ybe your t lo havin theme. Ge oking for tting g a rom your antic energ a splash in so s y tha holid w immi me se t you ay in where n g tru a to h r rela Franc coupl nks a elp ex tions es wi e with side a nd bi pend hip h ll lov nd wo a difk as con some inis o e the on th nderf o n and jured lus f that e othe ul sce up. T n r. nery h beaches e w fou hen g with in th nd o to Aq the A e form tlant uitai of mo ne ic Oc untai ean o ns bo n one rderin g Spa in
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iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 355
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p ea l than ever b ef ore .
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T h e Re t u r n O f T h e B o o z e Crui se
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o r the mo s t s t u n n i n g s c e n e r y , f o o d a n d peopl e, the Ita l i an s d o i t b e t t e r t h an an y on e. C i ti es su c h as V e n i c e , Ro m e , F l o r e n c e an d N a pl es a re a ll fill e d w i t h v i b r an t n i gh t l i f e , t a sty f ood a n d in t e r e s t i n g at t r ac t i o n s b u t i t ’s the hi dden Ita lia n c u l t u r e t h at i s b e ggi n g t o be expl ored.
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iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 363
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Once y o u g e t hu n g r y, d o n ’ t f i gh t y o u r n at u r al i ns t i nc t s, g ive in to the s m e l l s o f p i z z a, p as t a an d ice cream t ha t ha ve be e n f o l l o w i n g y o u ar o u n d al l d a y. W e k no w t he y’r e o bvio u s ch o i c e s b u t i t ’ s j u s t s i l l y t o v i sit t he foo ds o r ig in a n d n o t s am p l e t h e d e l e c t ab l e f ood where i t a ll b e g a n . Fo r t h e b e s t s p agh e t t i h e ad t o R ome, Nap l es fo r the ta stie st p i z z a an d d e l i c i o u s t o p p i n gs, a nd Fl o re n c e fo r the m o s t m o u t h - w at e r i n g i c e c r e a m a n d th e wi dest va r ie ty o f f l av o u r s y o u ’ l l e v e r y f i n d ; f i g, a p ri c o t , r ic e p u d d in g a n d e v e n t r i f l e am o n gs t m any ot h ers.
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F o r t h o s e o f y o u w h o c an ’ t resi st a bi t of shoppi n g o n y o u r c i t y b r e ak , M i l an i s the f a shi on ca pi t al o f I t al y . I n t h e Q u ad r il a tero d’Oro squa re, s i t s al l t h e h au t e c o u t u r e shops but f or desi gner b ar gai n s , t h e G al l e r i a V i t t ori o Ema n uel e outl et s t o c k s al l o u t o f s e as o n m en’s a nd women’s des i gn e r b r an d s . F o r a d r i n k a n d da n ce hea d to the an y c l u b i n Ro m e . Wi t h more tha n en ough to go ar o u n d e ac h c l u b o r b ar f e atures cha rt musi c a nd a l o n g c o c k t ai l l i s t , j u s t r emember to dress up; y o u ar e i n I t al y af t e r al l !
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tmas s i r h C ast st for v u j e h t T o inly n r the kids. a t r e c inter fo is w t d s e n u h j a T l Lap nd. y not a l l n now, n i s i a F e t r r e n u i c and gest e of p r c a ts of n l s a e e d r h o n t f u s b deep an a s area i a s i l l d e ional n w t a a l s s r a e n d s e won the s nesse r n e o d i l t i lish. n e w e r c o m i t t o c ar not t r you o d f n g a n e pruc waiti s t c ops i u d j m r o l o l r f N a the vals; ghts; i i the t L s t e e f n L r c e i h t . Nort sport antas o f t eart f h o m r l e i u g f o n t to y e and s a ra a r t e t s b a o e s h h l d , t your va n c i l i a t l l s s i p e u f f a r m L usic s. O m odern m dise h m h t c t i o y t t f h s o r a a t er fan uld ving beats o o r l i c e m u h u f e t r o h e y ely ts in wond v h d by t i e g t y u a o a n h r w s te ing. l t l i e u b k A f s r d . e e d n d r a theat all an h won t b i d t o n w o a f d min like ilms f s t e r h o t p . Not s n d i r e t s a l a y u a pl n pop restim ience i e d e v n i u t ften exper o get ac l s l i i w d n The n u i o a r l y p a t a B t Ice ly bu e in L u d f l i n o l e t s i ole b h r h f g A i w e y n l a h e e T Th cool to hich are extrem e no other. t g i n i s i e of b lik s, w e only t s s r n s e a a b hol m e e g d t h e n a t a t h t p s s u club ut of s the olds e o h k k t a t n a i h l r n sit t e a t D l c o a . i H u l r e o e e Ic mat g lev ar, y e b n and i e m t s c i a i n c s i x e k e y h s t r new deer g at he ve n t n i i e x r m a o l ted h r e t f a i r r e o w o d c t s e a r n m chai ften d m o dditio r here a s a i h e n c r I l u a b . b a m l te omfort drink. The fe varies so c n i htli down ious g c i i l n e e d dy. Th ur o o b . s y y e r p r e i s culptu thing for ev s e c i with some s i e r e that th
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With th mix o e location f o Russ culture in f Finland ian n spired , Lap eighb land f trong r o m o has a u its S rs. T cultu n inc w h r e e onal e d l i redib w a s i h n th tho , Nor d uni experi le w s quely ence e e eratio g a i r a o n and like n und i comb n of S t o i n t o at reg o giv weden es its ther. e ion. y I h n o a u a s s cha West In the ture. r L a a c East, terise pland ensaConse d tr t q as ch armin uently th adition bl the way of he coe e heri d. g as tage, nds with R life in the n ightl ife an culture an ussian d loca d act are n i ls v ities o lim i n Lapit nderl and. s to the sp or Cruis ness e thro ting activ with the w ugh t ities you s i in th h n e d ee stu silen gentl is win nnin t ; a ra y s n w o h g w cov re bea isperi w i l d e r n uty. anim e als in g in your d ea their ry ow natur r n sled al will b or rei ndeer e pow s. Ta ered b or ma k y tea e k a e d a m of a walk natio y trip frien nal p o f it. a r do u a nd th rks, L Take ation e citi a hik emon al par es e j o k throu ki is e that s for gh th one o i is pu e f the rely d ts fantast rillin m i iv c os g ong t ride or ha ine. Shoo back-to-n t reature he cou ve a r t dow n e n l axed tless the ra and s a r pn i n v d o e wboar rs an i n y fan v i gorat d lak ding tastic e s s k . Cha ills in resort he bes lleng s. To t and one o e f name closes usive Lapa t North ern ex you can g few, these et to perien the w acce. and l onik not w e no other ant t o leav and with so e this magi many thi cal w ngs inter won-
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 369
Le v i , F i n l an d - S k i
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v e L in la n d ’s la rg es t sk i re so rt m ak es fo r a g re at fa m il y ho li d ay , pa rt ic u la rl y ap pe al in g to k id s w ho g et th e ch an ce to m ee t S an ta C la u s, ta k e a re in d ee r an d hu sk y ri d e an d ro am ar ou n d L ap la n d .
omc l e w t easan l p , s e ski lop d s n t a e i s r u the q ructo i. For t h k s t s n i i o w t g akin along s how e r p t e s u n b h n t i s h beg Engli ly tha c a n d e o o t o t opes. o g o l t , s N e e r c k e c a l h a mosp ree bl deal p i h t n e a r ing at a t ake i there m s r s e l i o k o sch ced s n e i r e p x more e
370 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
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iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 371
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cc or d in g to th e P ro g ra m m e fo r In te rn at io n al S tu d en t A ss es sm en t (P IS A ), F in la n d is k n ow n as th e be st an d m os t ad va n ce d ed u ca ti on al sy ste m in th e w or ld at tr ac ti n g st u d en t fr om al l pa rt s of th e g lo be . S o w ha t m ak es F in la n d su ch a g re at pl ac e to st u d y ?
E U /E E A st u d en ts an d ot he r in te rn at io n al st u d en ts w it h pe rm an en t re si d en ce in F in la n d ar e ex em pt fr om pa y in g tu it io n fe es at pu bl ic F in n is h u n iv er si ti es an d po ly te ch n ic s. S tu d en ts co m e fr om ou tsi d e th e E u ro pe an U n io n m ay be ch ar g ed tu it io n fe es if st u d y is ca rr ie d ou t in a la n g u ag e ot he r th an F in n is h or S w ed is h.
g, Den i r e e ngin E f st a o i l t o s t i s s d con uage g n a n l a n L i in F s and y s d e u n t i s s ses to on, Bu r i u t o a c c r u y, Ed Popula g ports o l s o r n e h t c n e ites its wi c x h sign, T e t i g w ardin Alps, o b y w w o o n offer few. n s s n d e e v n h e t a they iing d for e k e r s n laus’ e w f C h I o w a n . t e d s r n e n d is dscap ith Sa Lapla n w r a o l d f e e Finlan s d u ea fu und. sq h o e n r r o u c a u o t e g c y b i amin dn’t o ggest l and p r u u ater o s s w h r e e s e e w t t i d i n h n e r d rei weve ng, w port o n i s i you th e h f o r , e n g y t a a a n c of w eddi s you m enjoy e p h y y g a t dog-sl u o m other you , alth y s d t n r n a o a l p m p s La t the snow s g m n o o r f ng am i Aside i k s t , je rafting boasts. d Finlan
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S t u d y i n g I n F i n l an d
De p to endi c tem atch ng o n ke pera a gl the t i mo of s tures mps leng e n t re bea ow i get a of th h of uti s w s c e i sta Fin h o f ld nfa y, y at ul. mo it ns h ma as ou in u a k v 30 s N ma es ish Fin e a the deg ort y b ing cult land love ree her e lu w o u f rld s C n L ck or yo so y re a , in els r igh y en u a r n f o e o a c d n k c ts. re. u w ow ius ou on the p t, roc mus gh n b W ut ed ’t b eop k m ic a b inte Al an e m le p u s e lan r sic d t ad are ven her e t i k n n o f e eel own a ke ’s no lik to b y fe s e a e w atu hort ag for arm re e o of eig f a F nd ne i n r e ven welc ntho omug h
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 373
Ru s s i a
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he ca pi ta l M os co w is on e of th e w or ld ’s g re at es t ci ti es an d du e to th e va st si ze of th e co un tr y th er e ar e te rr ai n s of ev er y k in d, a va ri et y of w ea th er fr om th e co ld es t ci ty in th e w or ld li k e Y ak ut sk to th e su btr op ic al be ac h re so rt s of S oc hi . R us si a is en tr en ch ed w it h a m ar ve ll ou s hi st or y an d th le ss m us eu m s y ou ca n vi er e co un tsi t to le ar n ab ou t it , es pe ci al ly in M os co w . M os co w is a ba st io n fo r m us eu m s an d ar ch it ec tu re . T he fi rs t po rt of ca ll fo r to ur is ts w il l be R ed S q ua re th at li es at th e he ar t of th e m as si ve ca pi ta l. S tu de n ts of hi st or y w il l be in aw e of on e of C om m un is m ’s g re at le ad er s L en in , w ho ha s a m on um en t de di ca te d to hi m . Fu rt he r do w n to ur is ts w il l be re ac hi n g fo r th ei r ca m er as ag ai n to ta k e sn ap sh ot s of S t. B as il C at he dr al bu il t in 15 56 . T ry an d g et in si de to th e m us eu m fo r a sn ea k pe ak if po ss ib le .
scape e t o n n ists ca r u couno e t h t t u r b e ay ov ennia l w l and s i d m m l s e k i h c n a i s at ha ates b , Stal h d t m s y i m r s o n ority i i t h s n n t i e u h u L a m h s e c m a i t ’s r of co such n sta o w s o ern d m d t e r r s a Russia o t a h f n s E e y c f g o erin man ays uch l Gori the ling 1917. It took lent theme alw e included m a h k i er M pir ce va d e n m r n i p E s u e t 1 y e h r i 9 t t but e Sov in 19 h m t i T s i f . y o y k p t s Trot socie reak u s b s e e l h s t s a l l i and a c one point unt i Theo h s l o B at wn to o d need Europe t y r a a w f r o vers e you o l k a e llery s a m o bachev. G h t o T v n o ? retkay n why rubles e T h d s T n a a , ? s ) mber istory a thou u h r n o f f o n i d y e Tir re few h a pla a c t u a o c y d f atre an ft out (even i ires. s e d e e v l i creat r u not feel o y l to al e e s l l i w
374 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
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iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 375
Ch e ap & C h e e r f u l : E as t e r n E urope
Eastern Europe
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estern Europe will always be popular to tourists because they it is far more. Not to mention the much warmer weather compared to Eastern Europe that tourists enjoy. But the following countries all have something to offer and should not be shunned on the count of some of lack of infrastructure which may hinder them. Since coming out of the Communist bloc they have started to integrate into Europe and provide tourists with a much more accommodating experience. Gone are the days where westerners will be looked upon with suspicion and spied on by KGB agents (just some of the telling tales former tourists came back with on previous escapades).
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its s means t i a r t s h o do urkis rists wh to the T u e o s t o l r c o f g Bein untry rated co e world. r h e t d r n o f u e rout ns an ia remai nt trade r a t a ou r g l o u p B m ers. If y son an i a m s e i r m d e u n s m a mid nce S ea or so t and hu ople. For insta he Black ddle East. Yet f o t h f t o u t b s e e r dly p the w on winte he Mi d a frien ethodious day und r in the cated to o Europe and t there millions. e e o r l h e t s a d i i e s a i w n r co wy dM gro en t a in Bulga cold sno ns are naturally Or Ss. Cyril an ing in the back es are op auty of Bulgari y t b u o d r e i t s a y n i . i a a e pire tour is pl ulgar omp the b ions acc ditions as the B the Ottoman Em w, folksy music el to see g v e r a r s t u t o o n rom al tra ntain n sho ith mou sed into the loc ria’s liberation f of flowers are o wit w d e s s e er bl s blessed d lga ay i l s m u i p a B s m y fi i i r g o d t e S n n i d b t i . l lan a viv lebra town The cou untry you will historica rialised urself ce estivities where t d o s o n y u c a d d e s t n n h i n t fi can ume ca l f visit nd of fty mon 3rd you oining in the lo some ki fi h r c d o r f n a a n e M d j on istak ndre you wi l l s e e not be m ave over two hu ed. r d a l h u s o s h i s May 24 k fia h this odd drin try. But es in Europe, So n u o c and the e of th t citi e engine one of the oldes ces to visit. h t s i a fi a s. As ital So do or pl o t s g The cap s, bars and pub n i ark age of th lovely p there’s no short o marks. S
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C he ap & C h e e r f u l : E as t e r n E u r ope
Cheap and Cheerful
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yc a ver o t way twen s e e r v i a sg ere d thi . Th dcuffs. n s a t r y o l hil res han , inly s warm. urist away in emselves a t a m n i s th ia l ni nd led errai el to it a merc eing hau express usually t m n o r the you tb of c and n fe cept s withou n public ur body e nor iterranea n o Th c i e s. d yo art art th rivate p nd naked parts of alkan very Me t B s t ia e o t Croa ish. ope re there p run arou block on nd th Sea has a r a . u e a E r e d cultu national ed to ry in ed to ba t love to pply sun atic S Adriatic t i e r n h d u t w a a e co ok in eA he first ts are allo ourists th forget to take point on meats co ar th ated by t e e d h n t n t s a s n i y n’t se ing uri loc t ia i agreb hard to p er of tast of be where to o for tho o! Just do Z Croa f Croatia l e l a t t b i i m it’s ap o ia, ed t ar, s g to part the c iverse so lves a nu vileg in Croat and Hv s movin i o t r p o o la he nv es ap rg is d has t ist beach es are Pu but perh ive o l cuisine ny as it i t a a i t n a r a a te Cro cial nud ar beach visiting an al eets. Loc among m s l a h u ffi t a p o r r e i t t it po ty wo Croa obbled s a favour most not only n i e s c s o Th ia is nd wi lag t hipe itecture a erds Ste c r a Croa n’t. l rch mal heph ld the s it via its a ut the S wou d n tb ou o ail ar val feel t n the eas s n a i e c You s a medi popular a s i h too sausage Spicy boil. w a slo
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Hu ng ar y Hungary is in Central Europe and this makes it easy for tourists to access the country. The broad spectrum of weather really can go from one extreme to the other. In harsh winters the climate in the eastern parts can plummet to minus twenty degrees. Summers can be extremely hot reaching the high thirties and this can be followed by many thunderstorms leading up to the autumn period. Hungary is one of fifteenth most popular destinations in the world and its capital Budapest regarded as one of the most beautiful. There are a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that tourists can visit, many within walking distance of each other. Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Central Europe and breathtaking. The biggest area of open grassland can be found here too in Hortobogy. Hungary is also home to the largest Synagogue in Europe, so has a special attachment to those tourists of the Jewish faith. In terms of architecture Hungary has castles and churches in abundance and can be found in the city of Eger. Fancy some vibrant music and plum brandy? Pack your bags for Kecskemet. Students and youngsters head on down to Gyor, which is full of cafes, restaurants, nightclubs and bars.
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Ch e ap & C h e e r f u l : E as t e r n E urope
Pol and
Poland is in Central Europe, surrounded by an assortment of countries but has a lengthy Baltic Sea coastline. The weather is fairly unspectacular in the sense you get mild winters and mundane summers, but this should not detract from a country that is full of natural beauty. The capital Warsaw is starting to bring in a flurry of tourists since it joined the EU. Thriving new business centres and the abolishment of derelict old towns has really pushed the levels of modernity. There’s the Bieloweisa National Park on the border with Belarus if you want to see scenic views, also a World Heritage Site recognised by UNESCO.
The Masovia region known as the “Manchester” of Poland is brimming with manufacturing sites and museums that may intrigue tourists. Perhaps the countryside seems more alluring, if that’s the case head to Warmia Masuria a green region with lucid lakes. Lubusz adds to the natural feel surrounding Poland with its diverse landscape and inland dunes. The bird life also attracts avid bird-watchers from all corners of the planet. Lovers of nature will enjoy Poland and is highly recommended to tourists.
ia n e v o Sl
astnd the e a a e S c i f the driat by the A ean, the peaks o t u b a i t Croa erran ary and e Medit g h n t u f o H s s e ach ch a ntries su ty. It has the be ings to do. u o c y b heir e h d to take t ent bordere is of a great vari es in terms of t t n s i a t w I l . l u i s of choic urists w nal Park, a freq telement in it possesses o y y T a n r . a r a a i m r n t Aus e tas terra ed by ists a Natio ves tour ome win des urround n borders. The imilar to ome to Triglav i s s s g s e o i s r i d a a i o s Th t n t ri ther uth. n Alp lso h wish Slove take boa n its nor g hills in the so the Julia Julian Alps is a rds should you n o a g s c n i lp u d o A n y ern rrou The here neya rollin cities su e fine vi lps and teeples. Rivers w d s A m n a e r o a n s u u a e q i e l d M o v i u r s a J tr y and oh d ba the coun side shrines an bor and Ptuj als und the Drava h al t o b n o i i d r a ar re g the loc g oa lt u r n M i t i f l c f u o p e o b t s i s s m e i h e a r i c s t e ci and pictu s and vellin The ar y, so tra snap up o by tourists. Th ce in these citie ting out r a t o e t n , s s u a o ft r i c e g for cam uent nfluen elled t hopping d is a pretty affl S ion trav ng Hungarian i propriate. t . a s n d i t e s e e d ro ap our n loc an re is a st eather’s r to all y f the Eastern b e t a c l l i ing. The ing when the w art o nd w sh odern a enia was not ap m d n and go fi a n v urba . Slo a is very s the norm here n a lj b ju ital L ants i The cap t restaur n a g e l e in cuisine afe. here is s
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C he ap & C h e e r f u l : E as t e r n E u r ope
Ro un d up Safety stan dards in th ese parts o loads. For f Europe h those touris ave improv ts on a tigh in these va ed. Unlike t budget, E rious coun the west, m astern Eur tries. uch of the ope is defin region still itely for yo possesses n u. It is che atural beau ap and che ty in bucke erful and y tou will enjo y your tim e
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Stu d y At T h e O l d e s t U n i v e r s i t y In Hol l a nd
Study Abroad at Nethe
Oldest Unive
M
ore th an oldes just wind to mi bad fo ne in the c lls and clo gs, ou r a Un iversi ntry and f The Neth e e ty tha t once atures 88t rlands is h Leide h on ome t came n Un t h o Leid e f i r v g D o e l m r o u S s b t i c en Un c h t a a y h Prin umbl l univ liger a , loca think iver e t e c e nd r begin e h d nings sity leader sity, the acter ighly of th David Ru ) during Sp in the city . board streng e hnken anish of Lei . Not ths th institute. s d i h e e elped n was ges in At pr e repu to rai a gift the 16 esent tation Becau s from e t d h t h a se the c of Lei y e e , u n Willia i t n t s u i r v want r d U e y e e p . r n n m the u s Schol iversi , the u ities p tation to shu t Silent a y r n r ofile, doesn s such lies w iversi n the tion i (a e ’ t i s cut t n i y enc as Jos falter. coura in hal nternation thin the E o e and t u ging p ph Believ rages U, yo f. Lei a hose l e d a i o n o n u p g den a r wh intern le to intern count ccept ms, becau won’t requ a a ry, bu o wish to t i t onal s ional s all s se the ire a v study t the f centr chart u t u D d i d sa to e al cam utch s ee is t for th ents o n t b stu ody. y e p n p math s, me us but ins pically the full three- a ‘study a eak Englis dy here. Y dicine bo ye te h sa o and p ad the bui me as the ar course. ard’ schem really well u might ev ld hiloso ‘s e s Th phy a ings are d tudy abroa e tuition e, as an ‘ex o your pre n o mong c p d st oth tted aroun ’ scheme. fees differ hange stud arad d the ers. city. P The unive epending ent’ rs on opula r cou ity itself ha your rses in s clude no psych ics,
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Stu d y At T h e O l d e s t U n i v e r s i t y I n Hol l a n d
erlands
ersity
Leiden is situated not far from Amsterd am so regular trips to the city don’t dis appoint international students. Rather than head straight to the seedy red light district and cafe’s tha t are higher than kites, appreciate the cultural city ahead of yo u. Cruises offered along the canals are popular as is the Van Gogh museum that gets thousands or visits every year. Edam and Gouda ch eese are the nation’s speciality, so don’t forget to indulge whilst you ride your bike around Leiden. Still not convinced the University is for you? How about this? Leiden University is credited for its fam ous Nobel Prize winners and leading sci entists. Professor Heike Karmerlingh Onnes was the first to succeed in liquefying helium and wa s awarded the Nobel Prize for psychics in 1913 amongst oth ers during the 20th century. Albert Ein stein was fond of the university too, one of his manuscripts on the quantum theory was found in Le iden’s libraries in 2005. So if you fancy yourself as the next Albe rt Einstein (and let’s be honest, who do esn’t) order a prospectus from the Leiden University website here.
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T h e B e s t O f T h e Re s t O f E urope
The Best of the Rest
of Europe
W
Bel
giu
m Belgiu m Bruss is differen els tt sidere is within a o a lot of E ur d th Parlia by many a ousand k opean stat ilo n es m is acc ent is bas understate metres of , both to t ed. W he we essibl most d “cap Belgiu e o e i a a f t m al of E ll year ther-w Europ st and ea capita boasts a u st of i round e’s ma ise Be rope” rich h l Brus j l , o g b a r i e u plus p cause capita t. Its capit m ha eritag sels, w clude a s oint f e W h or tou mild win that’s wher ls and is co l dral f orld Heri ich house where pas ters a rists. or tho t s t nd co e the Euro nse wh age Sites li an impres meets pres pean ol sum ke the sive E o wan ent. Th m ur t to ex G ers an The m d perien rand Plac opean Qu is is chara ore h e. Th cteris arter ip par for po ce som ed no with h ere’s t t t e relig h better i s e to be ential wive of Belgium t ious n orical Goth than tied d s will ic tow ostalg monu by the own t be lur is definitel werp n i m a h . e a n o y e l home l and d St Mi ts that into vib the old bal in to the Antwerp. P chael c l rant c s Cath lubs a and chain ity to purc erhaps me ehase d , stud n wan nd ba ents m ting t rs tha iamo o n t will a keep y fancy he ds. Or ma buy an en g you e y nterta ading off in be for tho agement r se in ined. to the city c too shrew g entre d of An t-
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Czech
ic l b u Rep
The Czech Republic has really come to the fore in recent decades and its touris m industry is booming. Its capital Prague has become synonymou s with men looking to go for a weeken d and experience the bars and strip clubs. Referred to as the “Amsterda m of the East,” young men and students looking to enjoy stag parties will not be disappointed; just don’t forget to ask your girlfriends for perm ission!
Of course there is so much more to the Czech Republic then clubs and bars. In the north-east region of Prague lays the Bohemian Paradise. He re tourists will find some of nature’s fin est rock formations and isolated castles. Finer architecture can be visited near Znojmo when you pass by Baroque Castle and St. Margret’s Cathedral.
Lovers of ski sports will find solace in the Nove Mesto na Morave ski resort, which is more than a simple slope. It’s a large area dedicated to cross country skiing, so adrenaline junkies loo king to take on the mountains within this remote region will ha ve an absolute ball. Unlike a lot of ski resorts in Europe where space is limited, tourists will have more than jus t a few slabs of snow to improve their sk i skills on. If you want to avoid all that and let your hair down, take a short trip to Mutenic e Wine Region and pour yourself a glass of the local tipplw. Just don’t drink too much and wind up with your face flat on the local streets wondering where you are the fol lowing day!
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Netherlan
ds
the f o h muc m has e k i l ther msterda lax a e w e al A na and t Th i . p e a urop ers. Its c f marijua E n i ons le summ rance o i t c a s attr tolerab of its tole t s i r from u d d e o n e t s t a ular winters rs becau mila e serene i p s o s p a e ost oys fair gst and e city ar tball n m e u r e o e h j y led h rough th ive. Foo ous one t urope en e world’s t t s e i s s fam le ave t run th mpress and entral E h of th n l h i r r o e i h i h e c sty h w d et ha C u t t o s d N r i t n s m n i r l o n e a f e a g a Th located on igr can lonial p Famed ory t m e m s a i y h y Th s t n l o . a ve a e. al C r m a m b i a e t h state notorie l p e o c o t t t s d nks h Em the Du football t their fo attitude a c t h u t gaine aws. lture t of the D ted from the Ajax rn abou d liberal l u c g t u dr grea rly apar ts collec ome to o lea ating an t s t d s e a h d for ng , fac o bo me a a e s r r t m n g r o r m e f a a a a ccom eir b re as the terd hat were wcasing erdam ar s can be a s h t e m k A he pac es t our e. Th sho mst p i t s p n r s A r t o a o e r n c e m seu cou it th e summ ch of Eu back. one e and atm s. u s i v m m a s o h t t u sterd e cultur therland and i ay want during t ect on m to come m A ne f th d n u o ff m N e n s o a i y e s v e t t t g i o n d h c iedac ts will l est of t fa n rnin ing olle profoun ists who e c o k v c y m a o r s h i S l he jam-p nd tour d to the our l the se study trop s had a t i t n n o u a n our ght un t e core a compare i c h f n that h mpressio s o t a o i nt t val to th ntated late fun, and a d o w m o o o e e g ng fr to pure s wh t is medi mily ori i t s v i a r r tou be d fa ich ated l e r l n c t s i i a s o d w a g e h you city is d For t richt. Ma re relaxin e r e t o e wh e entire r u t Maas is a lot m n adve ngen. Th h t t u n e o s tud oni hard. s r e G t e mpl ther then rty too o c e a h r For t ok no fu o don’t p lo .S y a d rise, the g n i r du
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Ro un d up
Po rt ug al Situated in the south of Europe, it shares Spain as a neighbour through the Iberian Peninsula. The climate is generally warm all year round with the temperature rarely dropping below fifteen degrees throughout the country on average, maybe to five degrees during the winter. Northern Portugal, home to its second city Porto, is littered with historical significance. It carries great weight because it is where Portugal was born as a state nine hundred years ago. Known as the “Invincible City” Porto is located near river Douro and Atlantic Ocean and draws in tourists in droves because of its museums. Aveiro and Braga give Portugal its European attachment. Aveiro is referred to as the “Venice” of Portugal because the city stands afoot of canals. Continuing with the Italian theme, Braga is the “city of Archbishops” and is a draw to tourists looking to learn or discover religious enlightenment in the city. The capital Lisbon is home to shopping malls and modernity, clearly a draw to women who love Gucci shoes and Prada handbags. But for those bachelor and bachelorettes looking to paint the town red, enjoy a booze fest and create embarrassing memories head to Algarve. Constant sunshine and lovely blue sea is perhaps what you need after a hard years worth of working or studying. The Algarve will rival any Spanish island in terms of party atmosphere and marvellous beaches.
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Europe
Sweden Sweden is in northern Europe bordering both Finland and Norway though is physically connected to Denmark through the bridge of Oresund. The Baltic Sea lies to the east of Sweden and conditions are usually very cold in the country, reaching just below mild temperatures in the summer. Norrland is home to nine provinces of Sweden and the most beautiful parts of the country. The largest cities in the region like Gavte, Umea and Lluea are surrounded by lots of wilderness, forests, rivers, lakes, marshes and mountains. The vastness of it takes up half the country alone. The region is great for you tourists looking to go hiking or have some fun on the ski slopes. The central part of the country is home to its capital Stockholm and the more industrialised parts. Tourists along with the natives are granted the ancient “right to roam.” This simply means people can go anywhere they like, even on private property so long as they respect the privacy of people. Due to Stockholm being made up of islands, you can hire out canoes and go fishing or sailing throughout the archipelago. Watching the sun rise in the background on a chilli morning whilst you hook back your fishing rod will appeal to older folks, so don’t forget to tell Granddad and Grandmother to pack their suitcases for this holiday. Sweden is perhaps suited to tourists that take families along with them looking for a more peaceful holiday abroad.
the east g n o l a a i ss ering Ru the Black Sea is d r o b e p ro se art of Eu and that’s becau p n r e t s a e nt ards the st is vaca w e o t w e r h t o r no ly m d wonns slight ntries. Only the n a a e l s l l e i n h i a fy ou Ukr me to lea tourists who host of c o e h l o s i h ) w v ie se and a hicken K cognised by tho a World HeriC d e v o l e lso ch er there. r the mu que styles can b . Lviv centre is a e ft a d e al ro am x and Ba -Sophia Cathedr ev (not n o i d K o l h a t t i r p t eO in . The ca ture. Th l styles in the Sa ou’re in the city c e t i Mounh n c r a i a y a h l r f t i u a u f t g p r c ar de r ite ein gh the C erable fo s in arch ESCO, worth se u t u r o q r e n h p t o x c e y r y N is are ne tel eous sce s tall, it is defini rget you read th sted by U g i l r o e t g i S y b e tre ed t fo tag urround wo thousand me id of heights jus s s k l a w g rt fra fancy lon ding at just ove if your a l r l i e b w s m r e e tan em Hik akhiv. S ts. The es. But r s R c i r r n u a a e o h t c n f r s o ei tain fancy th attention u will nonetheo e h h t w t r s e e l c a yo ill e! novi esorts w ery crowded but our guid r t h e c h a t e f b o v ul part wonderf ially and may be o t e m o pec la h r urists es r. Peninsu o t a e ounds o n a p m i i s r h s s C i u e t i e R r m y B Th b um s, u e Dollar favoured to offer in the s s s u i o unless yo ain t o o t i S o g s e n . r a v s h i e i t e i what ith Ukr Europ are in K y w n s o r j e d e t n t e a e s r r e a s e s p W le re ng rists from d the best excha y dealers come p ncy exchangers. u o t r o f rre odg ring ia an emembe rrency is Hryvn con artists and d e you will find cu r h t r o W e local cu r money to local as airports wher Th . s o r h u Eu losing yo imate means suc e b o t t n t wa egi ncy via l e r r u c n nia
Ukraine
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Af r i c a an d M i d d l e E as t
Africa and Middl
A
frica and the Middle East as separate regions are full of life in their own right. Africa is more in line with nature and the greatness it has to offer in terms of its wildlife and unfettered national park reserves. The Middle East in contrast illustrates the ever evolving face of modernity thanks largely to the influx of petro-dollars. Here you will find endless deserts surroundings energetic cities buzzing with skyscrapers and shopping malls.
re u t a N f o s ion t s a B
tional a N m u e Kak h t vely t o u l o a s s d a n h a it also that st . e e n f i o l d g l i n splay. st of w i includi e , d r s a n k r r o e a y h p reener tional me to t g a o n e h f h t d o n y y a t o forest beginnd enj a varie n a e i s s a a h r t k h l a a a m t n w Gha long low fro e tual fac l c k o f a a ng in t i o n t i o d t n e s i e g v t a n a I i i h Park. es you Tanzan sts wish l i f c r a o y trek u t h s c o t t n e g i r p a n s l o e f l l p a i y it is a omen canop renget o n s e e S a h y p n n r t e e s h re’s mo e Sout a and K i u h t t n a a n n z i f n s o a t dur star th T one a o s h s b n c e i a e t h n s t i a i w r To w ber. It s sepa ation, e r m l g i e i nd of c e m e m r 3 D e e 1 t h d t 4 t a n f l . a May ning o ng the i , Kenya n r e a r e u a d w t y M e l i b sa Rough place nia. . a s d z e o k n the Maa o a a f t T r y l eed fo geti in usual n n n e ’s r o t i e s t S e a r e e g b est mi Wilde ns of th e i e b a l h e t p d l n e i o h t The W pying endent u p c e c d o y l l e i n are st t s e ous jour e b e d e Wil April, th
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le East
k.
Overview Lebanon is perh aps the most mis cellaneous of all because of all th states within the e cultures and re Middle East regio li gions it has. It o Spring is the bes n ffers a year comp t time of season le te to visit Lebanon with things to do help pass the tim with a flurry of a . e. ctivities to pursu e to One can take a h ike through the Cedar tree reser ternatively you c ves in Al-Shouf o an take a trek th r Horsh Ehden. r o u g h the Qadisha V peaks. After a d Alalleys, home to g ay of absorbing s lo it r es, you and your ious mountain ning in one of m family may decid any of Beirut’s op e to spend a coo en cafes samplin l eveg authentic Leba n e s e c u is ine. One can then ca tch a plane from the capital Beiru airports and plan t and travel westw their trip for the ards to any of Ira vast country. Ira Winters can be e n’s 98 n too has natural b xtremely cold wit e a h u ty te mperature levels in abundance. summers blazing plummeting into with heat with it the minuses and rising to the high country with cult 40’s. When you ural depth and d do go you will fi iverse scenery fr to the serene Ca nd a o m the Alborz Moun spian coast, whic h has a 143, 200 tains in the north sq mi surface are a.
of
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Af r i c a an d M i d d l e E as t
Fe el in g at Ho me
Maybe students looking to party prefer a resort, and few will rival Agadir on of Morocco. A large contingent of western Europeans travel their between s mer so you will feel right at home. There are many bars and clubs where you entertaining evening and dance the night away. One can liken Agadir to Gr
Pol and
The Kingdom of Bahrain is an archipelago located in the Persian Gulf made tucked in between Saudi Arabia and Qatar. It is connected to Saudi Arabia b Fahd Causeway and bridges the two lands together which are separated by 2 By far the most relaxed of the Middle Eastern states in regards to liberalism alcohol to be permitted for minorities, appealing to western travellers. The c nama is very cosmopolitan and practically a social and shopping Mecca.
In April the Formula One race season embraces Bahrain with one of its infam Prix’s. If that’s not enough, the football world cup is coming to Qatar in 202 some time away the sport will be growing in the country appealing to wester the sport and may look to catch a local game in Doha.
t s a P
e h t f o es r i p m E t a e Whilst in the Middle Eastern region you may wish to visit Saudi Arabia and witGr
ness the Hajj pilgrimage which dates back 1400 years when millions of Muslims descend upon spiritual journey around the House of God. You will also find remnants of the origins of the Islamic empire in Mecca. Of course parts of Africa will rival the Middle East in this regard. The capital city of Senegal, Dakar in Africa is prized with World Heritage Sites recognised by UNESCO especially Goree Island that is draped with the history of the West African slave trade. Ghana too is adorned with historical artefacts and archaeological sites. Evidence has been found that humans resided in the country around 1500 B.C.
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n the west coast spring and sumu can enjoy an reece and Italy.
e up of 32 islands by the King 25km. as law allows capital city Ma-
The land w as also apa rt of Ashan gained not ti’s infamo oriety for i us empire t a s been made she was a fi and has in homage erce indivi dual. Mus to the first visited to g eums have settlers the ain an insi Dagombas ght into th colonialism and can be eir respect . ed ways of life prior to
mous Grand 22, though it is rners that love
Ro un d up d for its e m a f s i Africa f its o h t h i c w u t m s e s herea s the w a W ith . n r g w e n i d d t e o s t a a m r r t s o n a ins dec much very co a l y e r p r e a s v t u s s o i pers in a i t a r E s r o a c l e l s g E y d s e k d l a i s the M e Midd zania h es and f d h n a t n a c a e T f n i a l d r c i e d n l r a d i Af enya and w ve mo K a y e h t r u e n a a h e r I b W natural bia and of life. a y r a A w i d n u a lit Sa f Islam o h t cosmopo bras the likes of r i b ze dy the ounc u d t e s n a h o t t s f n . g o s lio heart centre Wantin e n h . t t w s n o a i t p a t emg l i u a b c o a i r b r a o A t i n s bustlin i r d can lea ith Sau a rich h u w h st so o t t i y r u j a t w t s n s i d e e e u n s r i o s e t y e pires an con ica. Th c s are bl m r i f e n r f o t A i s A t g e s e e g a r r h Both rld’s la na in E oss to t o a r h w c a G e h k y t c a f a d o cca. B ions. odern e g e m M r and one s t o s a t o e r g r c avellin tched a se two g e e r h t t s o h t c try by tr l i y trave anti wh e h h s t A n f e o h pire n do w a c s t s i r u much to
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 393
S p o t t i n g T h e “ B i g F i v e”
Spotting the Big
E
veryone should have the chance to experience a safari at least once in their life. When on the subject of African safaris the phrase “Big Five” comes to mind. This refers to the African lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and Cape buffalo.
The name “big five” was given by big game hunters as these large animals are extremely difficult to hunt, due to the danger involved and the fact they’re wildly ferocious. Safari tour operators and guides have now adopted the term “Big Five” as a marketing and tourist tactic. The African lion (Panthera leo) is a large cat that cohabit in prides and one of the more exciting animals to see during a safari. They are usually found sleeping during the day rather than hunting.
or f t s e r s n Lio : t c fa y. a g d n i t a es s r r e t u In ho 0 wel f 2 l e s t i t e mouflag nd oba abou c n a c ion a e and tect etiv o r r c p e s r , o l f a e trees octurn s n u s i s l ) a s u m nd. ani ard u p e o s a r e r g e e Th h t h spots. d (Pan as on t r r l i a l e e p h o t w e l s o t a ks ican ees The Afr vironment than n eye on the tr en pa from its latforms so kee np servatio
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Spotting The “Big Five�
Five
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g fa ct: L eopa exce llent rds are swim mer s.
The African blac k rhinoceros (Dic eros bicornis) ar world after eleph e the second larg ants and suffer fr est mammal in th om poaching he in population in e n c e w the past twenty y hy they have dra ears. matically reduce d
Inte rest ing fac t: A cha rgi ng rhi no can rea ch spee ds of 35m ph. The African elephant (Loxodonta Africana) is the largest mammal in the world and can be found in 37 sub-Saharan countries in Africa. They can typically be found living in forests, deserts, woodlands and savannas. Poaching has always been a major issue in Africa after the numbers of elephants still in existence slowly decrease mainly due to the demand of ivory.
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 395
S p o t t i n g T h e “ B i g F i v e”
Inte rest ing fac t: An elep han ts’ skin is an inc h thic k.
The African Cape Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) are large animals that can stand at 4 – 6 fee and weigh around 700kgs.They can commonly be found in protected wildlife areas thr sub-Saharan Africa near to water. Apparently the Cape buffalos have killed more big g hunters than any other animal in Africa. Numbers have fallen because they are regula hunted for their meat and have been victims of various cattle diseases.
The take
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et tall rough game arly
Spotting The “Big Five”
Int
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fac e b t: B irt h d uff ur alo i ng s m The A frican ra ate eros i e l e p iny hant a s criti an nd lio cally e threat n s n d e s d ea most ned. On th angered. pecies are s on The le endan popu e plus l a o g . Al l m r of th side t pard ered w em h h e
South bers of th five to be e Cape buff as been cla hereas the h ssed a black e A alo is s rhino the C frica, Ken “big five” unted. o v f least ulner can b ongo. ya, Ta a c ble an concer e foun nzani n and d nea d toge a, Nam r i s in fac ther i ibia, Z n t the ce imbab we an rtain coun d Dem tr ocrati ies such as : c Rep ublic of
e “big five” can be difficult to spot sometimes so always remember to e your binoculars.
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 397
V o l u n t e e r i n g I n Af r i c a
Volunteering in A
T
hese are the best years of your life so make the most of them by journeying to amazing places to help protect diverse and unique communities and ultimately play a small part in building a better world. There are some fantastic projects in Africa, available with Gap 360, African impact and GVI that take volunteering to a whole new and exciting level:
e e t n u Vol
ry a u t c n a S a life c i d r l i f A W h t u So
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e of g n a r a ome to h s i ng t i t k a r h o t w y ; r anctua eatures s r c a l e u f d i i t s om in n beau r i f a , t life. s n d r i l e i a d w m n n o d a e nature w you have help th Afric l u a o r S u f t a o tely 2 form wing a o cross n y a r n m i e t k x v u o d e o r e n p e Gaz l satisfi r of ap imals i e e n e v f a o lden d e o s g n g a n a e , d u l s s e n l r a a e anim natur water te and a n e t a i u l xci c l i i e b r b f a n m a A h r e f a h r o t , w t a par rescue in the the Sou e f f l b o e l l s s ’ r u d u o n t is sp o a Y u y h o . t g s e n r y g i a r s n c a r i anctu sooth imme em to s r e h e t e h h t t on ft g t u n o A i t n o i r . s p b y s s l a u i a d e w m Wak e anim ping a won’t imal an r h i n t u a h l o l c t y a r s t f u e c i o h c je bird spe erys Bay, find a anging the lives . With this pro Jeff bitat ce ch a n h e i l r a e r sand at p u l’s nat tant ex a r m o i p n a m i and or each ure. f t n d e e v n d g a i cally des a wild African in mal care
398 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
V o l u n t e e r i n g I n Af r i c a
Africa
to
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Ta n z a
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Explore the loca l communities w here you will fin sample the local d the locals noth and fresh food w ing but friendly, h ic h will give your Get up close and and taste buds an exp personal with ex lo sion of flavour. otic and wild an significant and r imals in their na ewarding part in tural habitat and making them he gered animals re play a a lt h ier. You will also served. When y ou are not on a S keep some endan can discover the afari or helping s wonderful and u ave rare animals nique culture Ta Olduvau Gorge, , you nzania has to off the world’s most e r. Being home to th treasured paleon cinating history. e tological site Tan This safari exper z a n ia ie is n filled with fasce will leave you bursting desire to with unbelievable come back. memories and th e
Ken ya and Uga nda Gor illa Exp erie nce Meeting an endangered animal in its natural habitat is a fantastic feeling like no other. See diverse wildlife in the Queen Elizabeth National Park, you might even get to touch them and join professional trackers while travelling deep into the forests of Uganda for a fantastic once in a lifetime opportunity to watch the extremely rare mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This unique project will allow you to see diverse wildlife; some of which is unique to Kenya and Uganda and keep it healthy and safe. You will be in the thick of the action by camping in the wilderness, but don’t worry you will be in a group with experts. This fantastic and fun experience makes you feel a world apart as you encounter the colourful cultures, beautiful landscapes and wildlife of Kenya and Uganda.
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V o l u n t e e r i n g I n Af r i c a
n w o T e p a C in p i h s n r e t n I g n i h Teac
Join GVI’s teaching internship in the spectacular city of Cape Town and make a differe to the lives of children whilst developing teaching skills and earning qualifications. Aft successfully completing the first set of training you’ll be able to assist with the running educational programs including: childcare, sports and creative play.
You will live in an attractive and welcoming village close to Cape Town and Stellenbos Every experience will be one to remember with direct exposure to the wonderful local ture and communities. Optional side trips are available to Robben Island, Cape Pont, Mountain and Cape Town wildlife safari as well as wine tasting in Stellenbosch. It is s say this internship is a truly rewarding experience like no other.
Wh sadl
kno
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V o l u n t e e r i n g I n Af r i c a
rence fter g of
sch. l culTable safe to
Medic
al Ou treac h and HIV E duca tion
Embr ac cation e the glory p locals roject ma as you save ke i l comm n assisting s a positiv ives. The M e h u your nities on d ome care, difference alawi Med time w su ic to tho u se wh al Outreac ith th ring work pport the tion t o sh fie h he e with t y deserve orphans is ops on HI ld dressin need it. G and HIV E et g V b he wo a d nderf ut hardly g lso extrem , aids and m clinic and to know t uhe ul and ed el et a cultur . Enjoy fre y rewardin laria prev ucate loca en l g al com e muni time as yo as you give tion. Enjo u wi l l ties. y be in them the a ing tt direct conta enct
hichever experience you decide to go for there is no doubt you’ll leave (yes ly it has to end) on a high with unbelievable stories, more athletic and a better
owledge. Not to mention you would have played a vital part in
making the
orld a more positive place.
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 401
Th e B e s t B ar s & N i gh t Cl u b s I n Af ri ca
A
The Best Bars & Night Clubs in Africa
fr ic a m a y be b e t t e r k n o w n f o r i t s s af ar is a nd deserts tha n i t i s fo r n ig htlife b u t t h e c o n t i n e n t h i d e s awa y a whol e hea p of pa rty g e m s. Fr o m p l u s h c l u b s t o t r ad i t i o n al b a rs, cl ubbi ng i n Af ri ca is a pl easan tly su r p r isin g e y e - o p e n e r . I f y o u ’ r e a l av i sh spender or i f you lov e m o shin g a lo n g to li v e m u s i c , t h e s e t o p 5 c l u b s a nd ba rs a ppea l to a l l v a ri at i o ns o f p a r ty a n imal s . F o r ge t I b i z a, h e ad t o t he buzzi ng con ti nen t f or a n unfo rge tta ble n ig ht o u t .
n w o T e p Ca 1 3 b u l C
Look u tiona p luxury in th ry an e d tha you’l t’s w dicl find her orous C and s lub 31. G e is the o l place phisticate amtail, d, it to en have j o y a coc a dan a sky kc s e Resti craper par and expe ri n t ABSA g on the 3 y like no ence ot 1 its da building st floor o her. f in Ca z pe To the an ov zling déc wn a o glass l shaped m r of chand , e walle a feel l d VIP rble bar a liers, ike a nd a celebr area mak tion e the b reath ity, not t s you city o m ta below your king view enfeet. s of t he
402 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
The B e s t B ar s & N i gh t Cl u b s I n Af ri ca
W ith c o c kt ai l s a p p r o p r ia te l y n am e d ‘ 3 1s t F loor ’ , ‘S kysc r a p e r ’ a n d th e c l u b ’ s f am o u s p o i s o n ‘ Th e Lady H e m isp he r e ’, m i x e d w i t h M al i b u , pine a pp l e jui c e a n d im p o r ted M i d o r i ; i t ’ l l b e d i f f i c u lt n o t t o l ea ve w ith a fu z z y h e ad . T h e m u s i c o n o f f er ra n g e s fro m ma in str e a m Rn B t o h o u s e t o t h e r e t r o 7 0 s . F or a yo unger vib e the c lu b i s at i t s m o s t l i v e l i e s t o n a S a tu r day ni ght b u t dr e ss s m ar t , t h e d o o r m e n i n b l ac k s uits wo n’t l e t yo u in if you ’ r e n o t as d r e s s e d u p as t h ey are. V i s it t h e Cl ub 3 1 Fa c e bo o k p age h e r e
Sun
set Sun Pa l the -set Pa ace cou lace Tog n a m ile o try to has a r o in t enjo epu utsi tati h y th firs e midd de of t e best on as he c t he l e the of t live apit ar S only h a m e u l b n u c ou si -set it p Tra ined Pala levard y of L c. Les lace in mos omé s th ce b circ t ni musici , e u slap an fore lair trad ght a n e, y you ban s fl s of i t i o o o u s on t ck t nal the ee i will g t ap. o w A . the eek fric at mai W b a t hen ar t o a n fo nst pack o pl the ream od i ers. ay b s e mus is b Howev live C ands a served d audi ic D’s er d lues enc nd and e s a o and i a n r whi chea spen nd jaz ’t be s e play ngers l p tak beer st ed t urp z as t 10 e a rise hrou the yea brea is d g own rs i if t h k the he c n N er w s p ew J h erse as once osen m eaky si usic ngi a jazz ng the singer blue s. iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 403
Th e B e s t B ar s & N i gh t Cl u b s I n Af ri ca
A p h r o d i s i ac G h an a
curd n a arties p Apht s h p g e i e n k All unes t e c n a alked t t s o rent d the m e of l c o a h i s w i rod in the b nough u e l c t o t n u abo hat’s anit t f r I a fancy p . a r u e n o a n y h n G by if our i y g e n s i Jay-Z l p a p d o t n s a to ple h wort ve al Akon a s , ’ r h t e i s d t , l n ma gues s ie Wo v u n the e o i t m r S o a f o g l seein These ance f . d g c pren a i i s s a m i r h d o o f n r per auge e Aph H h t e c o t n stare r n d e e i t f k f n a a t n, Co club a e arh m e t o p t p w . t a a s s s s a p sine ke an artie u p a b ) n if m e d A o v n t e B a B c n r ( a owne know rica’ odisi , r f s l ’ lip h l A e c p a h r r A e t S e o h t w t n . u o o f That’s held ‘Big Br show hersel h checking o asts in a sh y bre ort TV r w e y t s h ’ i t l viousl d i a e xpos on so the re e i s n y i a l c b g c a rin odd o o not h e w h t ‘DJ t b n u e n o o g d e u anc out a ee Ha s h t o i t eps w e t s s k i u ’ j t a h s v ’ it r nig , ‘Fla a s l ’ J u iums, . p D d o A t o p B s p e t B h s u on wit al g s mo i d b c e l e u l and l p i c s f s l e h i s h t a t i m t cock 004, ce roo ong w f 2 l n o e A a e c d . g n t i e n he hug rs offer a ra Open s Friday nigh t n i am s’ 6 d ba l i n t a n Flava’ s u w s o g hit er sh s n i a l y a d l p an es. c s i t r p h g e i l l onab s poles, a e r t ll a shots a e here t i s b e siac w i d o r h he Ap t t i s i V
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The B e s t B ar s & N i gh t Cl u b s I n Af ri ca
e n i r h S a k i Afr a i r e g Ni like k o o l t ay no m e n but i r e h d i S s t e Th the ou m o r f ppeara y b much fooled e b t o leg’ t e don m o It is h . s e c s and n an a i c ni o s c u o t m e y t plac endar s e rian b e e g i h t N s est in n remain i f e h ith t nect w music. sician u m r e b in nn i u l w c d t r h -awa e nig y h t m down d m d e a e n s e o Gr p l was c ti re-o l u a ath. K n e i i d g i s ’ r r o Fem fathe usic r the e m y t r f t a a a d e 0 200 legen Afrob s f ky i o c h r a e g w e n , n i d o w follo the pi is wil h s r a o w f i ut amous f ives. Fela K s w a 2 t 1 s s u hi s j and wa as he was for cians i s u M s rine. h concert d and S w e o h r t c n d ge in tops i packe a s t a r s e o e v t e h up t week sic n t e u h ats. h m t e g i b e l f o h n a T l a s e c y Afri r of F st da d o u o n m a n o the y s h r a , e t n c pl h i n g a i d l d the n nal ls he festiva ours, traditio the menu for mpetitions, f ol co vivid c e music is of eet dancing r nts. t e liv s m h n a t e i n h W ins w r tour a e t c r c e o t ere s n h d p s n o a m club e s an at event i l l m e u h B o b ruly t d Red e a x a r l o e s a r up! F n i n a ay or r t d u i n t i r a t F s m a u rine de, j e on The Sh s no dress co by the Shrin set, singing e i ned t to stop w o , o t N n h e so ther . g r t i ys a nigh lar n a l u l l c p a a i t s c e m e sp hen Fe Afrobeat tun w , y a ssic Sund a l c s ’ her webr i his fat e h t t sed. ’ visi e n i r h be mis The S ‘ t u o b ore a m t u o To find re site he
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 405
Th e B e s t B ar s & N i gh t Cl u b s I n Af ri ca
Coc
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to Cod a e h rget, o f t ’ n Open o . w o t u o u out y , Map l t a h t i g over i p a n d c l l o a y h c d i p y n easil and ’s tre ic tro e h s n u c e a t q c i a i l b b r a Fo soci e clu ozam h h t M c i , r n s i f y o mix conuts and Saturda a g n i s reveal , s r Friday e o ous. rty g a m p a f 0 0 g 1,0 comin d n a the up
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The B e s t B ar s & N i gh t Cl u b s I n Af ri ca
Foun d on floor s wit the beach h DJs , t the n that he club’ ight s p a from way’ rea lay puls party ge atin ms c lly r danc g onsi i i n mus gs tr st of jump ng take i c u a e l three l a at C on th nigh d i p o huge c t. T onut the m e dance in the c danc h e phr lub’s s. Onc floor oonl e ase ‘ e ight o p y u o d o n t door u ge a toon . out a t too nce pool and t the Drinks hot to co bop a flow built o l c f ros of re in ba rs in e all nig s the wa f or ht, i ter i the p ‘Coco n n d o o oors l. nuts and ’ best has been nigh tclub dubbed as it’s e s in asy the c one of t to se just apita he e t l h w e a hy; i nd the p righ t t e ’ s r i fect ngre got get y p d a i r e our s t nts f wim y. Just suit. don’ or t for -
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 407
S o u t h Af r i c a
South
Africa
F
ascin atin lovely g wildlife , st w count eather, vib unning lan ran ry ds we co with so m t mix of p capes, adv u e me in e , we b ch on offe ople – the nturous ac r ring y li t ou th you’ll be s st can go o ivities, gre poilt at foo e best n. So f d and o t u h r t i h choic ngs to There A wine, f r ica is e. Bu enjoy ’s one a t do de in Sou m that’s a safa ust-do ac th Af n’t worry t lightful r rica. ti hat’s w you’v e seen i. The Kru vity that e here very t ger N wildli the ‘b rav ati ig fe range is so dive five’ – Sou onal Park eller shou rs is ld of ani t mals. e by the en h African the perfec do when li th t d of y our tr on, leopar place for t ey take a Krug d, ele trip to his. B er ip you p r h South Israel National a will h ant, c g to y Park , if no a a Afric o ve the pe bu ur fri is one t sligh a and ff e s nds a alo an een so of the tly big bout d blac me of larges ger. Th k t he wo rhino how t gam e park . The rld’s m e rese not o r o v st pop es nly pr ular otects in Africa and is the lo u cal w ildlife nbelievab ly but al so the the same s cultu ral hi ize of story
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Wildli fe Saf ari at K ruger N ationa l Park
S o u t h Af r i c a
of the area through museums and the
preservation of historical sites.
Cape Town Cape Town is one of those places you ha ve to visit at least once in your life - it is home to South Africa’s most beautiful beaches and natural scenery, the wonderful Table Mountain and rem arkable Devil’s Peak amongst many other popular tourist attractions . Table Mountain is a famous South Afric an landmark which overlooks the city of Cape Town. Travel up to the mountain peak in the revolving ca ble cars which provides visitors with br eath-taking views or if you’re feeling an adrenaline rush there are 30 0 hiking routes to reach the summit. Jus t bear in mind the mountain is over 1000 metres high so it will take a while just be sure to wear appropriate footwear.
Great White Shark Cage Dive Create an unforgettable experience by cage diving with great white sharks – th is activity will more likely appeal to adventure seekers and adrenali ne junkies – where you can get up close and personal with these in-
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 409
S o u t h Af r i c a
credible underwater predators. You don’t need any diving experience whatsoever, all you need is bags of enthusiasm to brave the shark encounters. It truly will be a once in a lifetime opportunity so why not take the plunge, literally.
The Apartheid Museum South Africa has come a long way since its struggle against apartheid but that’s not to say it can forget its terrible yet inspiring history. As soon as you step foot in the Apartheid Museum you will be transformed to the time when there was strictly a ‘whites only’ privilege through to Nelson Mandela’s prison release.
Film documentaries, sound clips, texts and live accounts recapture the essence of life in South Africa before it revolutionised and became a democratic country. This historical change not only shared major significance for South Africa but the entire world.
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S o u t h Af r i c a
Roundup
There’s n such a o surprise So u diverse and en th Africa is th riching e countr ‘Adventure C y it see ms like apital of the W there’s nothin orld’ with so g you c much to an’t do in Sou explore with th Afri in ca.
r
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 411
Kenya
Kenya-
The Wildebeest Migration Introduction
T
s you have le c ta c e sp l a n e m o ture’s most phen a n f o e n o ss e itn w which starts in the to , n tio ra ig m e th f o eginning the Maasai in g to follow from the b in d n e ia n za n plains of Ta nnot simply a c e n Southern Serengeti o d n a ss e c lengthy pro stency of si n o c e Mara, Kenya. It is a th ite sp e d the migration d n u ro a d e lv vo re re taken into a n rs to c fa l ta n e devise a pla m n ro h it happens. Envi ic h w in ith ing when the w in e m rm te fra e e d in r to the tim c fa lays a decisive p in ra s a n tio ra e d si due con e. migration takes plac
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Kenya
Best Time of Year
ember. c e D d n a y a g the latter M n ri n u e d e ly tw h e g b u e o for food. R y takes plac ll d a e u e s n u ’s n t o s ti e ania. e ra z b n ig e a m T d t il s in e W e ti e e b e g th n d The Wil of the Sere pendent on s e in d la y p e rn e u th jo g s u ll occupyin ti s It is an arduo re a t s e westwards e b d e n d a il h W rt e o n th s l, ri their drove end of Ap in te few grass ra e ig th m r e to ft rt a ta ly s s out they June and Ju e n ri e d e towards d tw n e e v la B ri . e d il ir a th tr e d r th n a h il a and launc long a sim s a s rd As rains stop a ra w b h e rt Z o n y ation, often n b e ti v s d o e ie m d n y ir a e e p th th m , o h often acc beest reac e dissipated e v d a il h dictated h W is a e y n e n th r rn a v u e a b jo s m e e te th because d early Sep a patches of th n y n a e t s K u g to u in A ti y ara. B rn Serenge e h rt o N e the Maasai M th d ing beyon o g t o n e s a c is the fall. wholly by rain
Some Wildebeest will often cross the border between Tanzania and Kenya and will continue to do so through the period between October and November before deciding to go back to the breeding grounds of the Serengeti.
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 413
Kenya
What to Expect
xcitement e ith w d ke c a p n absolutely actio is n tio ra ig m st e river.� The most e ile d o c ro “C The Wildeb ss ro c ebeest have to ild W e th n est cross the e e h b w e ly ild Ju W d e th aroun g in h migration is watc e tir n e aiting for e w th f tly o n e tie g a a p ve a h t iconic im f crocodiles tha o s w ja e th id vo a d Wildebeest ke ic n a p f o w river, tr ying to e vi tic ssing offers a frene ro c e h T r. a ye f o e this tim s possible. a y kl ic u q s a r e riv e ugh th struggling to get thro , not famed for st e e b e ild W s a re u f comedy to end o ts u o b threats that n g in ve in e g re a a im rs u o There h r on ceremony fo d n a st n a c e c n the river’s there e g ss ro c o d y their intelli e th e c n dge of the river. O e e th t h conjures up a ic st h xi w e , t o o ls n a id do vo a the Cheetah to e lik rs to a d re p r e th are o more exhilaration.
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Kenya
Round-up
y process th g n le a is n o The migrati . g n ti a watch the in c s to fa e n id o c ti e d ra beest mig is trip may e th d il r W fo ulating e m d ti n th s e h d it n n fi w o l il s d w e th k n re is jam-pac take off mo It . g to Lovers of natu in e s s m ti ro c display. e r n th e o v k ri c ls e a la th im o n h g a n w l ri u u e and July d d wonderf so for thos n e a n Ju d n n la e e d e tw ll e fi od b pen grasso t s a v f migration peri o ry e taking scen th a re b , n o ti ac
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 415
e p e’s
T h e B e au t y o f C am e r o on
Cameroon W
d sun-kissed n a s re e h sp o tm a ity nimals, superb c a f o y fantastic rra d a n a n a e tiv ith c w tin d is le d fil a s y st ith vast rainfore t countr y to enjo n e c ifi n g a m a is n o amero languid beaches, C experience.
Kribi
aches during e b e th to e m o c u each resort. If yo b r la u p o p st o m lear blue sea to ’s c n d o n ro a e d m n a sa C n is i e ld rib o K g d beaches with e It is easy to see why g rin -f lm ng atmosphere. a xi p la e re th d n ve a a h n fu to a le s e b a life and provid to s e the day you will be m o c g this relaxn ity yi c jo n e e th t g ils in h n w , ve e fra e ia ring th g in the Bay of B in h fis r fo relax and sun in. Du t a o b a erse yourself in its t m n im re d to n a e c u la yo p l g u in rf d e n gant vistas surrou le Kribi is also a wond e e th n o s ye e r u n feast yo ing past-time you ca beauty.
Yaounde
e to emc la p st e b e th is ity tting. This lively c se y ill h a in s a Be sure to visit re a t. n n e e m re n g ro vi sh n lu e p g n ic xi tr n la e mbined, in a re o c re Yaoundé offers ecc ltu u c useum has a n m a e c h fri T A . ry d e n a st a rn n e o d M o dm the Benedictine f o rt a bursting p brace traditional an s is rm g in fo h ild u ic h b w e , é th t d n c u fa o m of Ya fs and pottery. In lie re sa b the National Museu n e d o Cameroonian o w ith s, w ze d n te ro b ra o s, c sk e a d m f lly o astery is beautifu n o m wonderful collection e th e d si in h rc ry. The chu with fascinating histo textiles and crafts.
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T h e B e au t y o f C am e r o o n
Marou
a
Trekking in the specta cular lands eroon’s be cap st and mos t popular a es of the Mandara M cover large ountains o ttractions. stone forma f Maroua is A s y o tions, plush truly specta u travel thro one of Ca green valle cular, and u g h mt h e m t o y raditional h s, not to me u Rhumsiki wit n t a in s y ou will disillside villag ntion outst h its dazzlin es. Each v a g mountain n d clay and M in g views tha illage has s scener y, M ora holds a t are o m ething diffe aga has u vibrant wee way to ind nique dom rent to offe kly market. ulge in the ed houses r; Exploring th best of nat m a d e e ure’s beau Mandara M purely of ty. ountains is a fantastic
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 417
T h e B e au t y o f C am e r o on
entre C e if l d il W e b Lim
ating wildin sc fa r fo n ve a h rb tation as a supe u p re d e n w o n re e lively junglea th s h a g h u e ro tr n th e lk C a e W lif . n ild W The Limbe popular attractio ly h ig h a g Preuss’ and it in g d n ki lu c a in m ; s ts ie n c la e p l sp u y tif life and beau g and rare monke in n n u st f colourful f o o y se rra p a n lim a g a ith w h d tc a le c tanical garden fil like habitat and o b e th f o r u o d n le refresh your soul. sp ill l w a t a su vi th e re th e r h ve sp o o e tm gorillas. Aw e and tranquil a u sq re tu ic p a s e e gardens. d th vi f o ro p ty n u e a e rd b a g e e th h s T e floras. meroon enhanc a C t n u o M f o p ro kd The stunning bac
Round Up
you get the best so , n o iti d a tr ith w a of modern Afric st e b e th s y excursions in e a in lid b o m h o ic in m lly u f rf o e s d n rie o Cameroon w or connect a se ys a lid o h ll a sm n o er go of both worlds. Eith . this African paradise
e p e’s
418 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
T h e B e au t y o f C am e r o o n
Whe re
To St ay: L e
Le Me Mer ridien D idien ouala The ho Dou is a mo tel ove ala dern b rlooks Méridie u i t ld he n you ar Douala is id gorgeous W ing surrounde e neve r too fa eally located ouri River. T d by lush gar dens o he har r from t near th b ffering h o e e u a r is just city ’s’ m ction. Whe a quie a few ain co t have re To minute mmerci n. Eat: s a a l w a a n d ban y. Le La F Let you k i n g o areas rêt D r so tauran taste buds d e n t also e s e provid lve into sen La Fort es a sationa Dense l tradit is set in pleasantly ional C r elaxing the he a a rt of Ya tmosph ameroonian What oundé ere wit dishes. T h a o n s This up e d Relax a D r v w i c i l l o e l scale r e t : a h n Golf at is se ve you espopula d soak up th c w o i i t n n h d n L o more to non e r e. wishes. enced sport in Cam calming atm ikomba osphe eroon. player r s and beginn With an inv e in a game ig ers will find thi orating nine of golf in Liko -h s to be m an exh ole course in ba; a fanta s ilaratin g cour Likomba bo tic and se to p th exp erilay aw ay.
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 419
E x p l o r i n g T h e Re p u b l i c O f C ongo
Republic Of Congo
activities and s u ro tu n ve d a , e lif ild ountr y rich with w c a e c e or relax n lif rie ild e w xp g e tin d a n in a sc e c fa f a rf o be in the habitat , elve beyond the su st e b its t a a c fri A l lore rura vivacious culture. Exp aches. on their stunning be surprising to find ly ib d re c in is it o g n -Anne Of The Co te Brazzaville in a S the vast and e u re lo liq si xp a e B n e a th c s u a yo h c s su ur advantage a yo to With top attractions s nderstand rk u o ill w w t a u th yo t u g b in , ild ity u c b y l low ke it this phenomena t a g n ki o that Brazzaville is a lo y b st Ju during the day. e c a e p in es in the world. h d n rc u la h e c l rs u e tif u div a e b st e one of the mo b to d re e d si n o c is why it he ParliaT f O e c la a P e th to yalty with a visit ro f o rld ms. At o o w ro e e th th to in in lf re e tu rs a u fe yo r transport ars are a regula ill p d n ra g d While you are here, n a rs o hanting. eliers, marble flo c d n n e a h ra c xt e e rg k o la lo re it e h g n w ment olden glow maki g a ith w s te a in m u ill night the palace
D
Pointe Noire
oire has an a
f Ponite N o n w to h c a e b ly e The liv
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aurants, includ-
divine rest d n a rs a b ly e liv f o bundance
Ex pl o r i n g T h e Re p u b l i c O f Co n go
ing Cercle Na dishes. In c val which overlooks t he scenic ont coastline a laxation wit rast, the long golden nd ser ves h clear sky sandy bea a fine sele and charm ction of me ing blue wa ches provide an exc at e t ll e ent place rs paint a s Loango for pure re uperb bac k drop. Loango is a place of ultimate rela up the atm xation as th osphere on e friendly lo t h e away from gorgeous b cals take life beaches, v e a c h e at le s is a it nd divine c the Diosso dating from oastlines. If isurely pace. Soak Museum, b the 17th c you can pri uilt in 1952 entur y. Dio the museum se yourself o s n s o is the an the sacred ser ved as a cient capit s it Royal resid are a cop e of all the al of the kin ence for th ious amoun Royals gdom of L e last king o t of fascina oango an f Congo. G ting tales t d o uncover. iven its rich histor y there
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 421
E x p l o r i n g T h e Re p u b l i c O f C ongo
nd exciting a ry e n e sc g in n n u st n array of
vast contrast, a h c su f o re ltu u c a With eck and call. b ry ve e r u yo to re e will adh
history, Congo
Palace . Whether on lty tic n ya tla o R A s a y d a t te a S e tr o Where T ry guest must be ve e d n a lavish hotel. h c ly a e e m t re a xt th e a n e a id e ir b e The hotel fulfils th to be the most to d te vo is e c la a P , Atlantic business or pleasure g or Queen. in K a e lik l e fe u yo They will make Restaurant s and healthy in u ka io sa lic e O d t th a o E b is o d T o Where ese food. The fo in h C ite easy to comis it u g xq n e ki a in m e h c lg n u e d Fr in s d n Let your sense k both English a a e sp ff a st f o rs e b m st me equal measures. Mo
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Ex pl o r i n g T h e Re p u b l i c O f Co n go
municat e. What The Od To Do Odza za la more to la National Pa National Park rk ca of the b pture your hea is home to lowla ea rt. With guided nd gorillas, mo wonder utiful animals in nkey tou they are th Congo’s eir natural hab rs of just four pe s, Lions, elepha itat op nt most fam ous nat . With ever ythin le you will not s and many ional pa m g they h rk. ave to o iss a moment ffer here it is no
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 423
Wo r k i n g I n U gan d a
Working in Uganda magnificent , re ltu u c n a d n a g U t frica� with its vibran A f o rl t only a a o n e y “p tr e n u th o s c a is d th lle e ke b a r gems which m e ganda has been la th o st g n o m a e lif redible wild savannahs and inc rk and live. o w t u b t si vi to e c la great p poor red n a y rt ve o p ith w d prived place fille e d a f o k in th lly ountries in Asia a c su g u in y p e lo th a ve e d n d r a e g U th f o o long with many a p u When people think e th estern parts n W o in is y d m fin o n ld o u c o e w ’s u a d yo gan mpetition than o c ss le sources. However U d n a s b jo re ns there are mo and Africa. This mea of the world. not choose y h w so , rld o w g in rk st mark in the wo fir ir e th ke a m to g n r students looki This is good news fo to work in Uganda. skill-set. This d a ro b a ve a h o h a for people w d n a g U r different in fo le rs b e ila rk o va w a d s e e c iti n n u rie rt oppo n to adopt expe e ke ys a lw There are numerous a is a d n vantage as Uga d a n a t a u yo t u p will industries.
U
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Wo r k i n g I n U gan d a
Advant ages o f work ing in Ugand The good a thing abou t U ganda is th extremely fr iendly and at it is an E hospitable nglish spea ; they will d king countr o their bes y where the Despite the t t o natives are m ake you fe tropical cli e l m a ate, for mo that reach t home. st of the ye an averag e of 26 de ar Uganda and boast grees. Uga enjoys hot s a low co nda also o seasonal t st standard ffers a high emperature of living. ra s t e of pay to a Although a ll it s workers ttaining a U gandan wo to officially rk permit isn work in Uga ’t the quick nda but it est of proc is definitely esses befo rewarding In this case re being a a n d not as com it ’s best to ble plicated a do sufficien you need s it seems. t research prio beforehan the experie r to making an import d to make ant life-cha nce that c sure y omes with w n orking abro ging decision like this ou have ever ything ad is spec ial regardle one. Having said this , ss of where you choos e.
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 425
B e s t O f T h e Re s t O f Af r i ca
The Best of the Rest
of Africa
W
Int
rod
uct
i
on hen p e why n ople talk a bo o attent t explore N ut travelli n ion w ithin igeria, Gh g to Africa a the to urism na, Moroc , most talk e co an indus d Sen d about is try. egal, a S s thes outh Afric e cou a ntries and Keny a start t o gain . But more
N ig er ia Despite being a resourceful country, Nigeria is only now starting to reap the benefits of their tourism industry after the many impediments they have had to overcome. For instance now you can take cable bus systems to view the scenic mountains in the Obudu and Kanyang regions. Obudu has been established to such a degree that hotels and lodges are now accessible in the area surrounded by waterfalls, springs and caves, really making it the standout tourist destination spot in Nigeria. But there are so many more things to do and see than just mountains if you wish. The Yankari National Park in tandem with Wikki Warm Springs are located just off the Gagi river, southeast of Bauchi Town. Opened in 1962, it offers an array of animals on show from crocodiles to monkeys and buffalos. Still not satisfied? Why not spend a weekend on Coconut Beach west of Lagos sipping cocktails or Tarwa Bay, which is slightly more of a relaxed environment catered towards families.
426 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
B e s t O f T h e Re s t O f Af r i c a
Ghan
a
Ghana is on the west coast of the Afric an continent bordering Ivory Coast, Bu rkina Faso and Togo. There are two main seasons, just wet and dry. Northern Ghana experiences rainfalls between March to November whereas every city south of the capital has the wet season in full flight betwee n April to mid-November. Ghana is adorned in abundance with his torical artefacts and archaeological sites. Evidence has been found that humans resided in the country aro und 1500 B.C. The land was also apart of Ashanti’s infamous empire and has gained notoriety for it as she wa s a fierce individual. Museums have be en made in homage to the first settlers the Dagombas and can be visited to gain an insight into their respe cted ways of life prior to colonialism. It’s different to its African neighbours be cause Ghana has a variety of national pa rks, including one that stands out the Kakum National Park. It is in actual fact a rainforest and home to the rarest of wildlife. It also has a lovely canopy for tourists wishing to take long walks and enjoy the green ery on display.
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B e s t O f T h e Re s t O f Af r i ca
M
o c c o or
Morocco is one of Africa’s most popular countries to travel to for tourists and here there is an array of factors behind this. Nature is never far away when Morocco is concerned as there are Desert Mountains to grasp, valleys to see and a blue sea to have a splash in especially in a country where the weather rarely drops to below mild even in winter. Sport enthusiasts that fancy a challenge will find a trek up the Atlas Mountains thoroughly enticing. Perhaps adrenaline junkies will be wanting to paraglide off the mountain peak or rock-climb, weather permitting. The Quarzazate desert is a viable substitute for those afraid of heights. Tourists can opt for an encampment instead of going back to a hotel and experience what nature has to offer close up. Maybe students looking to party prefer a resort, and few will rival Agadir on the west coast of Morocco. A large contingent of western Europeans travel their between spring and summer so you will feel right at home. There are many bars and clubs where you can enjoy an entertaining evening and dance the night away.
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B e s t O f T h e Re s t O f Af r i c a
dia e m uch sts m t e Se tg uri ’ o n t s t e c it do to attra e s u beca eginning t i s i sts v ey are b i r u o ooze t b t f Th a o . h ica t he 1990’s tage gal is a r n f a A v et s in e ad g. Sene c e k i n i a r t s t ing k n e o n t a i g u o h o n g s s c a okin res of fi erience, d of ted to ch ts to see. o e l t s a r tar der pean y the allu ing exp sor s n e o r s r u a u t d h fish to E to enjo mos s trend aches an e r e h e t t h t a y i e nd ty o h i j yc a t b l is l l n n t a s g h e I u c g i t g n e i e o r por urists t t st ore Sen ge, thou es offer p a G o h t y e l s l o v t th ra any rt ia s s o c t e m s e l s e . i b p r r w cove r vast dro s O e that dra ther gives tou t and ena tly warm i C o e S t h t s E in mo rke onsisten UN ractions aly e a S y k f i m b l o fish her is c ised e all att e un rt town l e n p d g i o m t c w ar xa so ea ld re e y e r w s r e r o e e e t o i w h F e. Th s, th r in the ge s re t d r a e a a t r h i b t r w e e and e playe ountry ld h can slav r o v w i c ith est Afri w mass sun in a d e e priz of the W arises. s i r up th a ce k y r a n a o D t h s i c y al cit ith the h ng if the t i p a i The c draped w orth visit s that i s and is w st touri
l a g e n
Ro un du p Africa is unique and natural and these four countries offer you just that with a tinge of modern infrastructure in order to make the tours slightly more bearable. They are countries definitely worth considering for a visit.
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 429
M i d d l e E as t O n A B u d g et
t s a E dle
d i M e Th
On A Budget
hauffeured c e b to s r a c s s e and top-cla ic v r e s Qatar, which r r u o o i a h b 4 u 2 D l a n to o e s r hen they com r hotels, a pe w ta t s c e e rest of us v p fi e x e s th u te r io li o r e F u y a t. ux d s a n E r e the Middle hat the mod in w s s n t’ o a ti a Th n . ti s in e d d n arou ost acclaimed m e th r much less. f fo o s e e c m o la s p e e b s e to th happen rience out of e p x e c ti s ta n fa we can still get a
L
AC C O M
N O I T A MOD
You don’t have to live like a celebrity in order to feel like one. Five-star hotels give you everything a two-star hotel can in Dubai. Check out Asia Rooms, where you’ll find you can stay in decent hotels for a small price. When looking for a place, aim to stay in the centre or in a place where you have easy access to the attractions. This way you won’t have to spend loads of money on getting to and from your accommodation.
430 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
M i d d l e E as t O n A B u d ge t
FLIG
HTS
Flight prices have a habit of changing reg ularly to match their demand. Booking in advance, when they are cheap is great but sometimes a last minu te flight also works to your advantage, because flight companies reduce prices in order to fill up spaces. It’s worth keeping an eye on flight costs so you can get the best possible price. Airlines add insurance as a hid den cost so always remember to travel with travel insurance. Most of the time your travel insurance will co ver you for the flights so check this to sav e some money. Getting a flight where you will land in Qatar or Du bai’s daytime is much better than landin g at night. Landing in the day means you can catch the public tra nsport to your accommodation; saving you money rather than forking more than you need for a taxi or sh uttle bus.
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 431
M i d d l e E as t O n A B u d g et
F
D O O
See if you can take some foo d or drinks fro out thus it sav m your hotel’s es money havin continental m g to access to resea fo r k o eals to enjoy o u t o n unnecessarily rch the restaur n your days over-priced re ants that give y ist information s ta urants. Use in ou the best valu centres for rec ternet e for money o ommendation be found alon r ask the hotel s. Good quali g the coastline and tourty inexpensive . Rather than that you can sto r e s p ta ic u king up lots of rants can usua re in your roo small bottles o lly m which will la pick up some f drink, buy big st longer when cheap grocerie bottles you’re out and s and a recipe you can’t cook a b b o o o u k t. then now’s a b to cook whate You can even rilliant time to ver your heart drink costs. learn. This co desires. If you uld save you a think great deal on fo od and
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M i d d l e E as t O n A B u d ge t
s of u o i r luxu dget. It t s o e m on a bu ts of h t n d lo e. eve rienced n e e e s p an pe to s your lif c x e d u e e o e As y ns can b re’s no n time of e e io locat show th o have th t to goes in order ey mon
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 433
Du b ai
i a b u D
stay, dine u yo re e h w f o ss le ai, regard
or what
the luxury in Dub y b y a w a n ke ta t e t’s not hard to g h standard. ig h a s a h re e h w ry you do because eve e of the m so e b to n e p p a h free! They also ’re y e th s a re e h s e h soft sands tha c a ite e h b w e e th th f o n o st o o c tw e r You can’t beat th to spend a day o e id c e al blue sea d st y ry c a m rm u a o w Y e s. th e h in c ip a ul be hoose to take a d c r o s e world ’s most beautif lin re o sh e rts to give you a o th in sp r ith te w a n w e f d o id s h e lls p e ty many different re have pure white sh a re e good chanc th s a u ’s ro re tu e n th ve t u d b a o g d lin u e nd on what yo e p e d Better yet, if you ’re fe s rt o sp r te a w e costs of the adrenaline rush. Th ver price. sa p u ro g le b a rd ffo you can find an a gy and fashio lo o n h c te f o t n fro re orld and at the fo w e th rgain. V a in b rs a te p e u rk k a ic m p ld n o a c g u st large uty-free shops yo d e th to Dubai is one of the ks n a th , ing atmosphe p zz o u sh b to a y in e n re o o m m s st d o n c a t from a market c e So whilst it certainly xp e u haggle to ta yo d g n in a th ky ry e ve e h e c ll e se b t a n th ounted you ca c is d y the vibrant markets d a lre a re a ts uality produc Although the high q ain! home a better barg
I
434 / iGap Travel Guide 2012
D u b ai
t
e at a. an ce
on. Visit ere. ake
Don’t forge t to enquire about the for shopah famous Dub olics. The ai shoppin festivals off goods and g festivals, e r a products fr month long an annual om virtually extravaga yearly hea ever y corn n z a ven w h e re you can er of the g You don’t lobe. check out just have t o get wet at Dubai’s top the beach attractions to have a . This adve heat in a w brilliant tim nture wate orld of pure e. Wild W r park is an fun. Lose y water sur fin adi is one id e a ourself and g all on an l way for ev of b e in e r expensive y c or group sa b o o m d e y a t o kid again w beat the budget. O ver tickets. ith incredib nce again le rides an don’t forge d t t o enquire ab Getting aro o ut family und is eas y on the p fresh air an ocket, esp d take in th ecially usin e sights as yo Burji Khalifa g public tra u hotel and w a lk nsport. Or . G e tting into th the Dubai show off. A breathe in m e u attractions lternatively, seum costs the if you think like the wo nothing an then you m rld famous you ’ll be sp d they hav ay find it ’s e e n s m o d u me brilliant in c and see e things to ver ything fo h better value for mo g hundreds on taxi fa res or publi ney to take r a couple c transport hundred b a hot air b ucks, all in a ll o o n ride over one day. Dubai
iGap Travel Guide 2012 / 435
Wo r k i n g I n D u b ai
i a b u D n i g n i k r Wo T hinking ab
out wor ing pro ki spect; a way fro ng abroad can familia m the h be a dau rity bu o m ntt e the uni with it and com que exp makes forts of erience it all w that com orthwhi le. es
i a b u D n i k r Why wo
luxr a l u p g a po ndy n i a e s b n n a l cle r tha e u f f inf i t o l u a o r a t e u e b t r hitec t mo h its c o t r l i a w a g s n ha tio azin m a , Dubai day destina e n kyli s li o r h a l y u r u ate. ectac m p i s ood l , c g s t e r o o h h f c a be UAE e and e r h u rom t t f c n s u i t r t n n e s fra ng stud natio i i r d t o s n f e i f d y ly be eciall great t p a n s e e o r s r s l e is a ay cu uniti t m ies. r r o o t p h Dubai n p w o u o e t c urop men own E y o r l d i p e n h a m t e erica ithin m w A s b h o t Nor ind j f t l u c i it diff
Advantage s of wor king in Dub ai O ne o f t h e m ai n i n c e n t i v e s o f work i ng i n D uba i i s th e t ax - f r e e i n c o m e o n t o p o f not ha v i ng to pa y prope rt y t ax s o i f t h at i n i t s e l f i s n ’t a ppea l i n g en ough w e d o n ’ t k n o w w h at i s !
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Wo r k i n g I n D u b ai
The residency process is quit e simple and e Western natio asy to do for nalities but in g e n e ways you can ral there are n umerous obtain a reside ncy visa for D ployer or fami ubai like emly sponsorship . Dubai encoura ges and thrive s off internati in their workf onal experienc orce. Around e 9 0 % o made of expat f D u b a i ’s p o p u workers across lation is a range of sect progression is ors. Career easier in Duba i than it is in example. America for Dubai offers a better quality of work and li dard and as th ving stane fastest devel o p i ng region of th home to the bes e UAE it is t technologica l developments in the world. The only main disadvantage for students w Dubai is that t orking in he legal drink ing age is 21 a t h a t w e c a n ’t f part from ind anything holding you b ack. It c a n a n d w i l l take time ad ju s t i n g t o t h e zone and the f different time act their weeke n d falls on Friday holy day mean , their ing that Sund ay is the offic the working w ial start to e e k b u t y o u ’r e o n l y like this are be young once. C tter to take on hances now rather tha what are you w n later, so aiting for?
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U n i t e d Ar ab E m i r at e s
United Arab Emirates D
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Al-Ain Al-Ain is a city just waiting to for you to travel the labyrinth streets and embrace the cultural diversity. Known as ‘Oasis City’ the beauty is radiant throughout the land. A ‘must see’ attraction is the Al Ain Paradise. This piece of heaven has found its way into the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world’s largest garden. Here, the flowers beautifully form every colour of the rainbow and are arranged in a style that is the epitome of artistic horticulture. In fact, the attractions of Al-Ain are much more stunning when you find yourself in the heart of them.
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e exotic. th f o te s ta a d n your home a f o ts r fo ountains m M o c r e ja a H t er th n e c eas, magnifi r a e g a it r e h e o unique. th s s te a ir ns like m E b a r the United A s e k a m t a h w is t
Corniche Beach Visiting the beaches in the United Arab Emirates is the highlight of any relaxing day out. The Corniche Beach is so fantastic it has been awarded with the blue flag status which is an internationally renowned eco-label for beaches that guarantee clean and safe water. Let the silky blue ocean shores sweep you away with their peaceful sounds. Indulge in ultimate relaxation on their comfortable sunloungers, soft golden sand and with three miles of beach you are certain to find our own tranquil spot. At Corniche Beach, every amenity imaginable is available.
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U n i t e d Ar ab E m i r at e s Fujairah Fujairah is a ripe and exotic land. Embracing the natural radiance of the countryside in Fujairah is a great way to spend a few days. Take the exciting opportunity to explore the strong ancient forts that have been around for over 300 years, which reveal the city’s history and leaves much to your imagination. Let the plush floras and stunning waterfalls excite you in a serene environment. The dramatic scenery from the Hajar Mountains delivers a picture-perfect backdrop to the glorious blue Arabian Sea and the pristine sun-kissed beaches. Musandam Venture into a land of splendid scenery like traditional Arabian villages and mountain-hugging roads. A boat trip is the best way to see the finest landscapes that Musandam has to offer including the towering cliffs that plunge into the clear turquoise waters, you may even spot some exotic sea creatures. This picturesque peninsula with its cultural eccentricities is well worth the visit. Musandam offers the best of both worlds as the lively city of Khasab is just a stone throw away. The colourful lifestyle is nothing less than brimming with vibrant culture.
Burji Khalifa Known to be a masterpiece of a statue, the Burji Khalifa is an astonishing piece of architecture and engineering. Dubai’s own ‘Tower of Babel’ pierces the sky at a staggering 828 metres. The inside of the Burji Khalifa is like a world of its own mixing supreme offices and enviable apartments. The Observation Deck is the cherry on top of this fantastic monument. Catch an unbeatable view of the metropolis city that is Dubai. The Burji Khalifa is worth visiting for these attributes alone.
Round Up The United Arab Emirates is a sublime series of countries where you can live the highlife. Their attractions, lifestyle, culture and history may just seduce you into a longer stay.
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U n i t e d Ar ab E m i r at e s Where To Stay: Emirates Palace Hotel From the extravagant grand decor to the designer toiletries and impeccable service, your stay here will be truly sensational. Located near key sites, this five-star hotel perfects the very best of travel affluence. Where To Eat: Al Dhafra Cruising Restaurant Indulge in an exquisite menu that includes fresh succulent lobsters, continental salads and an array of desserts to tantalise your sweet tooth. With the ethnic charm of the restaurant amongst the water’s serenity with the sea breeze softly whispering its secrets, your evening is certain to be memorable. What To Do: Helicopter Tours Get an exceptional bird’s eye view of incredible landmarks around the United Arab Emirates; like the amazing Liwa Oasis, vast desert land and monuments. Not many people can say they have seen several famous landmarks all in one day!
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T r av e l l i n g T o I s r ae l
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J er u s a le m Jerusalem – Israel’s capital – is one of the oldest cities in the world and home to three of the world’s major religion: Judaism, Islam and Christianity. With such an eclectic mix of religion and culture it comes as no surprise that tourism is one of the largest sources of Israel’s income. Pay a visit to the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount - one of the greatest Muslim monuments in Jerusalem – which is a world-recognisable Israel sight known for its magnificent golden encrusted dome. Nearby, you will find the Western Wall – a sacred Jewish site which attracts millions of people from around the world each year, particularly Jews who visit the site for a place of holy worship. In the cracks of the wall you will come across small pieces of papers – these have prayers written on them and you may choose to write one yourself. Best of all these two major attractions are free.
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E i l at Found on the Red Sea is Eilat - the pearl of Israel which offers travellers an array of adventurous water activities. Mingle with dolphins and tak e an amazing swim along the shoreline with these friendly creatures found at the Dolphin Reef or try snorke lling and scuba-diving in the coral reef. Take time out to appreciate the beauty of the Red Sea at the beach where you can wind down and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. If you’re not afr aid of heights why not hike to the top of the Eilat Mountains where you will find spectacular views of Israe l. Eilat is also home to Timna Nationa l Park, a camel ranch, aqua beach and a lively marina so you won’t be short of exciting activities here.
Dead Sea Floating on the Dead Sea – the lowest place on earth and the world’s second saltiest lake – is a natural wonder that offers a unique experience like no other. It is the equivalent of having a relaxing spa treatment. Spot Israel’s finest wildlife in the Ein Gedi Oasis National Park where you’ll also find refreshing swimming holes to cool down in with the warm Arab climate.
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nery of e c s g in n n tu s ers and the ll e v a tr h it w r mely popula e tr x etch for e tr s re s a e n s u n d o d i n – where sa excurs e n t o n r e to s t e x e n D Quarter is ty p m E e iv s n the expa joyed, and n e e b . s to e il ia audi Arab miles and m S in s rk e can be s a e p th t f n o e m y n e s a u oasters. M utdoor am rc o e ll d n ro , take a a f s r o d o n o re a s d tu in h n l c e v a ra d e e v ttractive b thrill and a a e e th There are se th e v n o lo x ts l attraction la n fu e re ti d u n a tu a s e c s b u w a o o y is n k coast everyone malls where a d e n a ba-diving s S u e c h s c d a o e e d b R to e e y th opportunit opping. Th found near h e s f th o t is o e p v s ti a c or do more attra n e v e t o dip in the sea p s makes this t a h w t u b lf e in its t forms of n . ra re ib e v h r le e b th a o ightlife or n readily avail e th idden. It r rb fo fo ia y tl b ic ra tr A s i public are o to Saud in g ic ’t s n u ourself. o y m d y g jo in le n y p e la o ’t p e n p a d n c ay alcohol a an you still g e in m k ’t It ’s safe to s n n ri s d e , s o b d flavoured t lu h a it tc h th w t ig s u n e b s ip y a tr p t n r n king wate ntated cou o entertainme e m ri s o e y k il li m e fa c n d tive an an experie c u o y s is a conserva g in th ty of other n le p d shisha. e ll re a a c y re lt ia The c e an Arab sp is h ic h w o c c toba Saudi Arabia is a sensational place to explore and what better time than on your student travels. The wonderful culture and atmosphere will excite you like no other which makes this country an essential vacation destination seeped with masses of traditional character.
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Q at ar
Qatar
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Be s t O f T h e Re s t O f T h e M i d dl e Ea st
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Jordan Tourists are recommended to travel between May and June to catch tolerable warmth where one can bask in hotel pools. In regards to tourist places to visit, how can one not travel to the lowest place on earth ala the Red Sea in Amman? The aura that the Red Sea derives has made it the number one tourist destination place in Jordan. Going outside the capital opens up a wealth of opportunities pertaining to things worth seeing. In Madaba there is the Church of St. John the Baptist, which since being recognised by the Vatican in 1957 has become a place of pilgrimage. For those parents wanting to avoid historical and religious sites and have fun there’s always Padi Dive Centre that allows daily boat dives and snorkelling among other activities.
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Iran Winters can be extremely cold with tem perature levels plummeting into the mi nus’ and summers blazing with heat with it rising to the high forty’ s. Spring and autumn time are the best periods worth going to see Iran. When you do go you will find beyond the media painted exterior lays a coun try with cultural depth and diverse scenery from the Alborz Mounta ins in the north to the serene Caspian coast. The capital city Tehran is awash with modern cafes, art gallerie s and restaurants specialising in Persian and Turkic cuisine. You may look to take a trip to Esfahan and see the grand mosques that are so eloquently designed. For couples looking to honeymoon they may decide to visit Yazd, a city renowned for twisting lanes that encompass romantic hotels and restaurants. Finall y there’s Shiraz, a city that captures the very essence of Persian culture with some architectural gems to grasp and take away as a reminder of what th is great country has to offer.
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n o n a Leb Lebanon is perhaps the most miscellaneous of all states within the Middle East region because of all the cultures and religions it has. It offers a year complete with things to do. Spring is the best time of season to visit Lebanon with a flurry of activities to pursue to help pass the time. One can take a hike through the Cedar tree reserves in Al-Shouf or Horsh Ehden. Alternatively you can take a trek through the Qadisha Valleys, home to glorious mountain peaks. After a day of absorbing sites, you and your family may decide to spend a cool evening in one of many of Beirut’s open cafes sampling authentic Lebanese cuisine. There are archaeological sites you can visit that will make the trip worthwhile too. The partially preserved medieval cities of Tyre and Sidon contain mosques that encapsulate the Arab style of architecture of the time. There are also six ski resorts for diehard snowboarding and skiing fans to see in Lebanon should they desire.
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Ro un du p These four countries offer everything you could possibly desire be it as an individual, a couple or entire families. Jordan has the Red Sea, Iran has cultural variation and historical heritage, Lebanon has modern cafes and restaurants and Bahrain has sandy beaches and shopping malls that look like palaces in their own right.
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