Galahotels Newsletter

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Can You Really Enjoy World Travel On A Mini Budget

Many people hold in their goals to become a world traveler, or to at least go on at least one trip to a foreign locale. The reason most people don't act on their desire to travel abroad is of course financial. There are ways to enjoy world travel on a budget, but you need to know where to look and where to lay your concern when browsing for the right vacation destination and flight.

Although in recent years there have been more students that request student loans and government grant so get through their college years, there's also a surge in the number of college aged students that take trips to foreign locations. These excursions occur partly because of a foreign studies program or missions trip thats offered next to the school and frequently partially covered from the semesters tuition, but also because Americans, as a whole, are more apt to purchase cash that they don't have than they used to be.

In order to break down how students and adult travelers can travel abroad on a budget, we need to first separate the travel costs into categories. If you break down the trip into three categories and search for bargains in those three categories separately, you will be likely to get a good deal on each. The first category would be travel. The main portion of this category will likely be the trip to and from your destination, but you can also include transportation while on your vacation in this heading as well. For example, if you are traveling through Europe, you may be more likely to need several flights while on your vacation, whereas a trip to the Bahamas or Cancun would require only local travel.

Begin researching flight costs. You should do this at no less than three locations. Those three would be a travel agent, the net (sites such as Priceline and Travelocity), as well as the airlines themselves. At separate times, you may get the best price at these locations. If you think the first place you get a price for a flight is a great price, keep looking, you can always come back and get it in a few hours, after you have checked around. Also, if you are planning several smaller flights while on your vacation, there's great deals for short flights throughout Europe. These can also be researched on the net or through your trip agent. If you are planning to rent a car, check with local companies in your home country to see if they can recommend a rental place in your destination, but also check with the locals once you have arrived and see where they recommend. Many times, the locals know better than anybody where to get a good deal.

Searching for a hotel can be done in much the same way as browsing for your transportation needs. You should always check at least three separate places before committing. Know also that hotels in other countries are likely not the same as hotels in your own backyard. Many hotels may have community showers, while others will have private baths in each room or suite. Make a list of questions to be answered before booking hotel. Once you have decided that the hotel you have selected is satisfactory in both appearance and price, then you should book the hotel to insure a room is available for you and your trip companion.

Finally, we come to entertainment money, or spending cash as some would call it. You will inevitably want to purchase cash on your vacation, whether it be for meals or souvenirs for grandma. In all cash spending situations, use your common sense. In foreign countries, it could be difficult to remember the exchange rate and know what you are spending on certain items, so an electronic exchange calculator is a great tool for your outings.

If you keep these suggestions in mind, you can enjoy world travel on a budget and still have a great time!

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Great Places To Visit: Prague Cafes And Castles

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic is an extraordinarily beautiful city. Standing on the banks of the river Vltava (the locals generally use the German name for it the Moldau). Few wars or natural disaster ever reach here and the architectural heritage has been beautifully preserved. It is also know as the “Hundred Spired City” due to the lots of churches that adorn the city streets.

Much of the street plan, in as much as there's one, is medieval. And will come as a surprise (hopefully a pleasant one) to anybody used to living in a grid pattern North American city.

The city still boasts lots of beautiful buildings dating from the baroque period; a sight lost to much of Europe, that suffered so much in the devastation of two world wars. The canter of the city is a pleasure to walk around. Much of it is dating from the 14th century, when Charles IV started the university and built the “New Town” area of the city.

Prague only established itself as the capital in 1918 with the creation of Czechoslovakia. It remained under Soviet control until 1989, when the “Velvet Revolution” gently broke the grip of the failing Soviet Union.

Nowadays the city has thriving cafes, clubs and shops, where the newly rich and the inspirational window shopper can keep themselves amused for hours on end. The boulevards contain everything from traditional Czech souvenirs to the latest hi tech modern electrical gadgetry.

Must See Prague:

• Charles Bridge: built in the 14th century, it was believed at the time, that odd numbers were lucky. The builders started work at 5:31 on the day 9/7/1352 very odd, but maybe effective, as the bridge is still standing today!

• St.Nicholas Church: When building work finished in 1756 Prague had one of the finest Baroque churches in Europe and it still retains that position today. There is a gigantic painting of St. Nicholas in the nave and a wonderful bell tower. Mozart gave a recital here and there's still frequent classical concerts throughout the week

• Prague Castle: Now the home of the president, it was previously the seat of the Czech royal family. It is surrounded through palaces and features an army museum. The changing of the guard takes place every hour and, as with some other European Capitals it is somewhat a spectacle. Bring a camera.

• The Old Town Square: Built before the 12th century this is the oldest and most historic square in Prague. It is made up of lots of interesting buildings including lots of from the baroque period. Many of the buildings are brightly colored and there's lots of pavement cafes, where you can relax and view the world go by.

• The National Technical Museum: Although unimaginatively (though accurately) titled, this is a fascinating collection of all things technical. With everything, from a railway carriage belonging to the Archduke Ferdinand, (whose assassination sparked the outbreak of the first world war), to a working reconstruction of a working coal mine.

• Vhsyrad Castle: Over a thousand years old and a former home of the Czech nobility, this castle has an impressive pedigree. Take a stroll on top of the ramparts for a great view of the city and river. There is a wonderful gothic church, a museum and a cemetery, where the composer Dvorzac the Author of the “New World Symphony” is buried.

• Petrin Park: One of the hidden gems of Prague There is a rose garden, a maze and a gate to a well cultivated garden, but the real sight is from the tip of the hill. Take the short cable car ride to the top and there's the Petrin tower, basically a smaller copy of the Eiffel Tower. It is an outstanding viewpoint and well worth the effort.

Food and drink in Prague are both hearty (as you would expect in Eastern Europe) and affordable. You need to attempt the dumplings and the beer is some of the finest on the continent. It is also the original home of Budweiser and they still make their own, some would say superior version.

The hotels are more expensive than they used to be, but are still affordable. Look around for the best bargains. The transport, mainly buses and trams, is very good. Although English is not as common as in lots of parts of Europe, a bunch of the locals speak a few words. It is always worth asking directions, as they are polite and friendly people. A visit to Prague won't disappoint but don’t go in winter unless you have a good coat.

Travel To Turkey - Tips For Travellers

Before traveling into Turkey, you will must apply for a visa. Visas can be purchased at the the various entry points around the country. Travelers checks are't accepted, as well as you will need to pay with cash. You can avoid the hassles of having to spend a visa upon arrival through applying for one over the internet. Visas are needed for those who are citizens of either Great Britain or the United States. The visas will expire ninety days after they are purchased.

If you want to pay for a single entry visa, it will cost approximately $26. If you want a multiple entry visa, the cost is approximately $87. They must be made out to the Turkish Consulate. The best time to travel to Turkey is between April and October. The weather is gentle during the spring and fall months, but temperatures become much colder during the winter. It will sometimes snow in the mountains during this time. During the summer, the coasts are very popular. Between the cities of Antalya and Izmir are a huge number of coves, as well as the country is well known for having excellent rivers.

The three most prominent forms of transportation in the country are trains, buses, as well as planes. All of the huge cities in the country have airports, as well as international as well as domestic flights are available. If you are searching for a low cost way to get around, the bus is your best option. A number of companies feature bus trips around Turkey both day and night. The buses are comfortable, as well as passengers are offered tea and other refreshments. The country also features a advanced railroad network. These railroads all link to the huge cities, as well as many contain sleeping compartments where you can get some rest.


When it comes to hotels and accomodations in Turkey, you will be happy to know that Turkey offers a wide range of places which can match virtually budget. Large international hotels can be found in major cities like Ankara and Istanbul, as well as they also offer local establishments as well. If you are searching for a list of hotels ranked through quality, the Ministry of Tourism has an extensive guide which can be useful. In addition to the lots of international hotels, travelers can also stay at Ottoman style homes and other historic places.

When it comes to culture Turkey has played a pivotal role in the development of three major religions, as well as these are Christianity, Islam, as well as Judaism. Turkey is different in that these three religions have worked together side through side in a peaceful manner for much of the countrys history. Because of this, the country has a culture which has traditionally been connected to these religions. It should also be noted that Turkey has an excellent exchange rate, as well as this makes it an affordable place to visit. Turkish Lira can be purchased in the country at bank or exchange rate office.

There are nearly 100 different festivals held in Turkey each year. In addition to the Turkish festivals, lots of international events are held there as well. A huge number of art festivals are featured, as well as are very popular.

A Guide to Florida Sports

Florida sports offer the fanatic or the casual fan a wide range of opportunities to take advantage of at time of the year. From viewing spectator sports, such as spring training baseball games and national league hockey games, to participating in a fishing tournament to visiting a famous racetrack, sports fanatic is sure to be able to make a dream vacation year after year. Read on for some great ideas for incorporating Florida sports into your next trip.

Professional and Collegiate Florida Sports

During the regular seasons for the major spectator sports, the state of Florida offers the opportunity to view its professional teams battle it out. For football fans, Florida offers three teams - the Miami Dolphins, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as well as the Jacksonville Jaguars. There are also has two Florida sports teams in the National Hockey League - the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Florida Panthers; two teams in the National Basketball Association - the Miami Heat and the Orlando Magic; and two Florida sports teams in Major League Baseball - the Florida Marlins and the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Any time of the year, no matter when your vacation is scheduled, you can buy tickets to view one of these great Florida sports teams play. And do not forget the collegiate teams that play in the state, including the Gators and the Seminoles. Take in one of these games because you love spectator sports -- or just to view the extreme fans cheer for the home team.

More Spectator Sports: Spring Training for Major League Baseball

Baseball fans have an extra Florida sports attraction to view out for. Before the official season begins, lots of teams have spring training around the state, as well as their practice games are open to the public. With the relaxed atmosphere and intimate ball parks, this is a great way for the kids to collect their favorite stars autographs. Go view the New York Yankees, the Atlanta Braves, the Toronto Blue Jays, as well as other great teams participate in the Grapefruit League. Sit in the sunshine with your family while you get a sneak peak at the teams that will be playing throughout the year. Note that not all of these spectator sports are played in Florida - other MLB teams participate in the Cactus League, which takes place in Arizona, so be sure check your favorite teams website to make sure that youll be able to catch them.

Golf - Playing and Watching

For the real fan of spectator sports, a visitor to Florida will get an overwhelming number of opportunities to view a golf tournament. Those who prefer to participate can play a few rounds all over the state. For a bit of history, Florida sports buffs can start off with a visit to the World Golf Village in St. Augustine, where the Golf Hall of Fame resides. Visit the museum and check out who has recently been inducted into the Hall. Then, see if PGA or LPGA tournaments will be taking place in the state while you are visiting. Prefer to play? There are hundreds of golf courses around the state where you can play 18 holes and enjoy the beautiful weather for which Florida is known.

Auto Racing

For Florida sports fans who enjoy auto racing, there's more than enough of ways to view or even participate in a race (or at least to feel such as you are participating). If you prefer spectator sports, view a thrilling race at the famous Daytona International Speedway while you are in Florida, or take a tour of the racetrack to learn about behind-the-scenes stories and secrets. If you want a hands-on experience, you can sign up to take segment in the Richard Petty Driving Experience and drive a car around the track yourself - or with a guide, if you prefer. If you want more Florida sports excitement after seeing all that the Daytona track has to offer, travel to the Gainesville Raceway, known as one of the fastest tracks on the National Hot Rod Association circuit.

Deep Sea Diving

Prefer to get your feet wet? How about your whole body? Not interested in spectator sports? The state offers Florida sports enthusiasts awesome opportunities to go deep sea diving. Start in the southeastern segment of the state, where you can dive along the coast and see a large array of fish and other wildlife. You can also dive in and around the wrecks of Spanish galleons, exploring the ships and the treasure that may still lie within. Make sure you take an experienced guide with you when you dive and youre sure to have a memorable time.

Fishing

Fishing fanatics and Florida sports fans will not want to miss the annual Destin Fishing Rodeo, which takes place every October. Destin is known as the "Worlds Luckiest Fishing Village" and more than 30,000 anglers come together each year to take segment in this exciting tournament, one of the great spectator sports. At other times of the year, the whole coast of Florida offers opportunities for fishing, whether you are searching to catch marlins and other large game fish or just want to enjoy an afternoon relaxing on a boat.

Horse Racing

If you such as horse racing and spectator sports, you can see where it all starts in Ocala, known as the "Horse Capital of the World," where there's over 450 thoroughbred farms. Florida sports fans can follow that up with a visit to one of the racetracks in the state, including the Calder Race Course, which is conveniently located in Miami, next to Dolphin Stadium (where the Florida Marlins and Miami Dolphins play). Other tracks you may want to check out include Pompano Park and Tampa Bay Downs.

Traveling With Family And Kids

It is necessary that you know about various things and keep them in your mind while vacationing with your child. This would ensure that not only you but also the whole family has an enjoyable trip. For example, if the baby is in diapers then you need ample supply of diapers and baby wipes. Safe drinking water for drinking and rinsing out cups is a must. Always take pillows and blankets so that the child is comfortable during the journey.

For children who are old enough, you could carry coloring books, games, as well as toys which are hassle free and can be played without disturbing others. Interesting books and puzzles for children come in handy to keep them busy. The most important tip of all, of course would be setting up a realistic driving schedule for the day. Most babies and children get it difficult to handle lengthy hours confined in a particular place. Driving more than eight hours per day could affect your health. Try halting every two hours to distress your self.

A mother of two, Jill enjoyed traveling with her children even when they were very small. The entire family enjoyed trips to the park, the lake, beaches and to Disneyland as well. Since most parents enjoy having their children around on a holiday, Jill recommends thoughtful planning for making the trip more fun. That way both children and their parents could have fun.


These days lots of rest stops have baby changing stations in both mens and womens rest rooms. As a result both the parents can help in changing the child and share the child work.

Sally, a friend and neighbor of Jills, has also traveled with small children. She suggests, that it is necessary to take frequent breaks so that children don't get bored and irritable. Allowing them to munch on snacks they such as fruits or crackers is a sure good way to keep them busy and out of trouble.

You should be careful while traveling with infants. Ask your friends for practical tips on managing small children through out the trip. You could also gather information from what they did on their vacations with kids. Hearing about their experiences would give you ideas and ample scope of learning what to avoid. You could always ask your parents for baby advice as well as consult the local public library for books and magazines related to parenting

Traveling along with your child or other youngsters could make your travel really enjoyable if you can handle it well and make it a happy occasion for everyone involved. Take along a camera or video camcorder so that you can keep a record of the happy memories of the trip for watching later. Your happy memories and camera pictures could be enjoyed next to the kids when they grow up too. Do not forsake the joys of being with your children. Just plan ahead for a cool holidays with babies and the whole family together.

Top 10 Romance Hotels

Everybody needs a little romance in his or her life from time to time. The hectic lifestyles of this modern world frequently leave little time for enjoyment, let alone quality time with a partner or spouse.

Choosing the right hotel is the first process to a great romantic getaway. Some hotels simply ooze romance (particularly in Japan) and can put even the most sceptical of individuals in the mood for love.

Here is your guide to the top 10 romance hotels in the world.

Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris

1.Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris – This hotel is beautifully situated in the most romantic city in the world. It is in a quieter area of the city to afford you some privacy but is also only a few minutes away from the top attractions, such as the the Louvre for example. Most of the rooms have private balconies and all of them have an old world feel that simply oozes romance. This undoubtedly makes this hotel the best romance hotel in the world.

2.The Westin Europa & Regina, Venice – This Venetian hotel is one of the most spectacular in Italy. It boasts a prime location on the canal, which is illuminated for effect there. All of the rooms are traditional and there different design serves to inspire the most unromantic of people! It is in a prime location for the attractions of the city but also gives its guests access to a secluded beach.

3.Le Meridien Hotel Grand Pacific Tokyo – We certainly can’t leave out this five star hotel located in Tokyo Bay where lots of “love hotels” are found. This is the biggest hotel in Tokyo and if you book a room high enough, there's beautiful watchs of Tokyo’s waterfront and the city. There are 884 romantic rooms. Fantastic customer service and facilities available.

4.Seamark On First Sunshine Coast – This hotel boasts individual apartments instead of rooms for that added bit of privacy when on a romantic trip away. It is set in tropical gardens and overlooks a number of the best beaches in the area so you can enjoy spending time in your partner’s company without distractions. It also has a pool and spa area for your convenience!

Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas

5.Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas – This hotel offers all kinds of accommodation and gives you the privacy you need for a romantic break! The hotel is located in a quiet yet beautiful area with the famous Four Mile Beach within walking distance. It has a cocktail bar, sauna and pool. The ambience simply encourages relaxation and love.

6.Petit Palace Art Gallery Hotel, Madrid – This hotel is a renovated art gallery but is still home to the passion of the artists whose works once called it home. It is a luxurious hotel with modern facilities but is located away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is close enough to take regular trips if you wish, but the hotel is generally quiet and an extremely romantic retreat for couples in love.

7.Royal Palm Hotel & Resort Grand Bay – This hotel is a popular choice for couples wanting a romantic break. It is surrounded through beaches and tropical gardens for an exclusive feel but provides comfortable rooms to make you feel at home. All rooms are facing the sea so you can relax in your room and savour the atmosphere of the destination without moving a muscle.

Fenix Hotel, Lisbon

8.Fenix Hotel, Lisbon – This hotel is a very comfortable base for a visit to the Portuguese capital. It has its own gardens to stroll through, a great little restaurant and easy access to the rest of the city. The roomsare fully serviced with air conditioning, cable TV, mini bar and you can call for room service at time.

9.Hulhule Island hotel, Maldives – This hotel is perfectly kept with a romantic setting. It has a tropical feel and is located near beaches, quaint cafes and local shops that give an exotic aura of romance for a tourists. All rooms are luxurious with some offering peaceful watchs of the Indian Ocean.

10.Howard Johnson By The Falls, Niagara Falls – This hotel is superbly located for a trip to watch the awesome Niagara Falls. It is created to provide an elegant luxury for all of its guests and the service is of the highest quality. It is within walking distance of all of the major attractions but also offers privacy, thus combining the best possible factors to conjure up some romance.

If you are planning a romantic break then you need a hotel to match. The ten above are excellent and provide a romantic atmosphere from the minute you check in until the minute you leave. Planning is everything, so always choose the best hotel for the most romantic stay!

Travel to Punta Cana

Dolphin kissing a girl

The east shore of the Dominican Republic is a lengthy stretch of white sand beaches, celebrity villas and exclusive resorts known as Punta Cana. Although Punta Cana is an actual city, the title refers to the whole 63 kilometer beachside region from Bávaro to Cabeza de Toro. With a plethora of all-inclusive resorts and countless ocean activities right out the front door, this tropical paradise is the ideal getaway for honeymooners, anniversaries, families and singles alike.

Travel to Punta Cana and experience the absolute final word in tropical vacation destinations. The Punta Cana International Airport handles over two million travelers per year, more than the airport in the capital city of Santo Domingo. Secure your airfare to Punta Cana this season and lock yourself into some of the most reasonable resort rates in the whole Caribbean!

The Exclusive All-Inclusive Punta Cana Experience

Resorts in Punta Cana are second to none and the all-inclusive experience is certainly the way to go. With airfare to Punta Cana, transportation and numerous activities and amenities included in the nightly/weekly rates, all you must do is pack your bags. For the adventure seekers, most resorts include water sports, lessons and equipment as well as guided trips to various historic or commercial destinations in the Dominican Republic. The capital city of Santo Domingo and the smaller city of Higuey are only a short drive away and offer souvenirs as well as necessities at a fraction of the cost of the Punta Cana resort region.

Resort in Punta Cana

Some resorts even include the opportunity to swim with dolphins or fly high on a circus trapeze. Snorkeling, jet skiing, as well as wind surfing are all very popular activities as well. Luckily, the whole point is protected through coral reefs that make the ocean calm enough and accessible for all level of swimmer. For those who wish to relax throughout the vacation, full service spas and beauty centers can be found in lots of of the hotels and resorts. Also, full service is offered through lots of establishments out on their beaches. Grab a palapa next to the waves and place your drink or meal order time of day without moving a muscle. For families, you will get organized kids clubs that provide all-day activities so you can get your own rest and relaxation!

Punta Cana Style and Sophistication

Travel to Punta Cana for some of the most luxurious beach, spa and dining experiences in the Caribbean. Oscar de la Renta and the Clintons have been known to frequent the white sand and turquoise water. Others come for the best deep sea fishing in the world. Foodies will get some of the most sophisticated and intriguing gastronomical offerings ranging from European fare to Caribbean tradition. Any way you want to travel, Punta Cana is at your service.

Loire Valley in France – Perfect Golf Holiday Destination

Tourists visiting France who bring along their clubs won't be disheartened or need to face the challenges of arranging tee times as they typically do when visiting Ireland and Scotland. In France there's two hundred and eighty thousand registered golfers for three hundfred and forty courses. This means lots of available tee times and no crowds on a course.

Golfers can usually walk in on their own without reservation and make their own tee times at courses in France. There is more than enough of space in front of you and behind you while playing golf in France. An unhurried pace of play results from this opportunity for tee times.

A great holiday golf destination needs the following; good accommodation at a reasonably decent price, more than enough of bars and restaurants for your evening entertainment. The Loire valley area in France offers great accommodation at a reasonable price, lots of things to see and do and, of course, a multitude of superb courses. This region has been providing a temporary home for golfers from the United Kingdom for the past few years.

One of the Loire Valleys major attractions is that usually an impressive, majestic castle overlooks the golf course. It is a visually striking area and one that definitely deserves special attention for a budding photographers out there.

Tourraine is another beautiful course. Although short, its raised small greens make approach shots extremely tough while various natural hazards keep you on your guard at all times. As its names suggests, Chateau de Cheverny is a grand setting for a days golf. The course was created in 1989 and is located among 350 acres of stunning woodland, lakes and open countryside for a somewhat magnificent experience. Ardree, a rolling parkland with natural lakes, is overlooked through a turreted 16th century chateau thats awaiting development.

Les Aisses is another of those European style courses where you can choose from three loops of nine to form your round. Chateau des Sept Tours and Limere Orleans are also not to be missed.

The finest course in the area, however, is Les Bordes, consistently ranked in the top five of Frances best courses. The golf course is a work of art and thoroughly deserving of its secluded location not far from Chateau Chambord. In terms of cost and convenience, Les Bordes is eminently achievable and should rank high on your itinerary.

Built at the behest of the industrialist Baron Marcel Bich (of the Bic empire) and his Japanese trading partner, Mr Yoshiaki Sakurai, Les Bordes was originally created as a private club for their own pleasure and that of their friends. Leading architect Robert von Hagge was drafted in and handed a simple but decided brief "to make a golf course that would prepare French golfers to play the finest courses in the world without being intimidated".

In accordance with the owners wishes, scrupulous care was taken to minimise disruption to the surroundings, as well as what was once Bichs hunting estate has been blessed with a course that has been ranked as one of the finest - and toughest - in Europe. Best of all, the place retains an air of privilege and privacy, but is without the tiresome airs and graces that is able to so frequently put you off a destination.

Construction began in 1984 and, with cash no object - a useful condition in anyones contract. Von Hagges creation is today the centrepiece of a course that enjoys to the full its majestic position in the Sologne, the ancient lake-studded forest at the heart of the Loire Valley.

The risk-reward element is very much the name of the game at Les Bordes, as well as though the course does open up a good bit on the homeward nine, your ball-striking is tested even more thoroughly, with the slightest errors multiplied the further back you choose to play. Jean van de Veldes course record of 71 gives you some idea of just how demanding the course is, not that the difficulty should in way put you off playing here.

Les Bordes is one of only two courses in Continental Europe to enjoy the highest rating in the Peugot Golf Guide to 1000 European courses. All in all, the Loire Valley offers everything the travelling golfer requires.