Travel with CheapOair

Ten IPod Applications: A Must For All Travelers

2009-01-27T08:07:00.000-08:00

Do you love to travel? Are you an IPod fan? If yes, then this post is for you. IPod is almost a must for all travelers. According to many fellow travelers (including me), an IPod is the best means of entertainment while traveling. You can listen to your favorite music, watch a music video, a movie, and organize your trip and so on. Besides music and movies, your IPod can also be a travel guide for you while traveling. You heard it right, a travel guide. How? Well it’s not a tough job and it’s not expensive at all. All you have to do is, download these really amazing software’s and install in your IPod and make your IPod your travel guide.

Here are the ten IPod applications that are a must have for travelers:

1. Washington Metro Subway: Visiting Washington DC? This application will make your trip to Washington not only hassle free but also budget friendly. Washington Metro Subway offers detail information on Washington DC Subway such as map of Washington subway, location of each station on the map, travel time and so on.
2. ACT Currency: A universal currency converted; with this application you can covert currencies of more than 150countries in the planet.
3. WeatherX: Who wants to get caught in a bad weather while traveling? WeatherX is the answer to all your weather related queries while traveling. This application offers up-to-date and accurate information on hurricanes, Storms, Airport Delays, Heat, Temperature, Forest Fires, Snow, Air Quality and so on.
4. Taxi Magic: Need a cab? Just tap a button, book your cab and have it pick you up at your desired destinations. This application covers over 500 destinations United States of America.
5. MobileFly: Flying somewhere? Check your flight’s status, baggage claim, gate, departure, or arrival information. With this application you will have access to thousands of airlines.
6. Vegas Mobile: A must for everyone planning to Vegas. With Vegas Mobile you will have detailed information on almost every hotel in Las Vegas, list of shows and tours and more.
7. London Travel Guide: Now explore London on your own. London Travel Guide has everything you need to know about London, from attractions to activities, from shopping to dining, nightlife and more.
8. Talking iPhone Translator: Visiting a complete foreign country. This application will help you blend with the locals perfectly. The Talking iPhone Translator provides both text and audio translations in six different languages (English, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese and Italian).
9. Road Helper: Based on a user location, with this application you can find emergency or helper services such as hospitals, gas stations, hotels and much more.
10. WorldView: Now traveling without spending a penny is possible, WorldView allows users to access real time webcams across the globe.

Best part is, these applications are dirt cheap and most of them are for free. Go on and make your IPod your traveler guide

Europe For Sweet Tooth; A Must For All Visiting Europe

2009-01-22T06:31:00.000-08:00

Are you a foodie planning to visit Europe? You will amaze at the variety of heavenly, lip smacking dishes and specialty that await you in Europe. Europe has so much to offer from history, art, music and fashion to technology and much much more but what stand out are its culinary delights. Travelers this time when you travel to Europe, do visit all the historic sights, museums and art galleries, shop and party but try to take out some time and treat your taste buds with some of the world most special culinary delights as you visit the various cities and tours of Europe:

Apple Cake in Noordermarket, Amsterdam: Am sure you won’t be visiting Amsterdam for apple cake, if you are traveling to Amsterdam, don’t leave without tasting a slice of Noordermarkt apple cake. Noordermarket is an organic market that opens only on Saturday from 9:00am to 4:00pm and its here where you taste this amazing delight

.

Chocolate Cake in Salzburg, Austria: Who does not desire for chocolate cakes, but did you ever wonder where it came from? Well, the first chocolate cake was invented here in Salzburg, Austria by famous confectioner Franz Sacher. So if you are in Salzburg, Austria, forget the sightseeing for a while and try one of Salzburg chocolate cakes. Am sure you will love it.

Lokum in Istanbul, Turkey: After you are through visiting all the sights, take a break and head to Ali Muhiddin's shop in Eminönü and try their Lokum. Why this shop? Well the shop was opened some 250 years back and many consider their Lokum as the best. But if you can’t make it there, worry not, you will Lokum in almost every Confectionery shops.

Well these were the three delights that you must not miss while exploring Europe. If you have a favorite European delight, do share with fellow travelers by posting it as a comment.

How to Avoid to avoid jet lag

2009-01-21T06:49:00.000-08:00

Air travel is a part of our life and it is becoming almost unavoidable. No doubt it is the fastest, the easiest, the most comfortable and the safest way to travel but taking a flight can be a task, right from booking your airline tickets to flying and much more. One of the most common set back of air travel is jet lag, which is caused by sudden change in temperature, shift work, daylight saving time and so on. Here are some tips on how you can avoid jet lag.

• If you are visiting a destination with a different only for a day or a two, brush aside the difference in the time zone and maintain the same schedule as according to the time back home. But if you are visiting for a longer period, start adjusting your schedule in advance, like, adjust the time on your watch to the time at your destination, going to bed and waking up an hour or a two earlier each day.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages on the flight and sleep during the daytime. Take some medicine if you are prone to motion sickness. Get enough sleep right before the date of your flight.
• If your flight reaches, in the morning, afternoon or early evening, head for your hotel and instead of heading straight to the bed, take a shower and go out, visit some of the sights or just explore the city, get some fresh air, then grab an early dinner and try get some sound sleep.
• Bring along some sleeping pill, in case if you can sleep in the new time zone. You may also carry one of those medicines to prevent jet lag. But consult a doctor before purchasing.

Follow these tips, nest time while you are flying to a different time zone. With these tip you will surely reduce the risk of jet lag. Please fell free to share your tips by posting it as a comment. Your tip can help other fellow travelers to enjoy a more comfortable travel!

Online Travel Sites To the Rescue

2009-01-13T03:22:00.000-08:00

Even if you are a die hard traveler, you may think twice before going on a vacation at this current economic status. For the more budget conscious travelers, it’s almost impossible. Does that mean that our glorious days of traveling, vacations are over? No, we can still relive those days. It’s not that easy but it’s not impossible.

Am sure many fellow travelers must be using the hundreds of online travel sites out there in the web to book their travel plans. But if you haven’t, I would suggest you better start using these sites such as CheapOair, Expedia, OneTravel, Tripadvisor, Orbitz and so. Online travel sites are a great way to save while traveling. But if you are not careful, you could land yourself in serious mess. So here are some tips to help you get that best travel plan yet excluding the hazards while booking your travel deals on online travel sites.

• Hook up with a well known, reputed online travel site, which offers secure booking page. Check out the site terms and conditions; read the cancellation policy and browse the FAQ section, if you have any doubts.

• Booking in advance is undeniably the best way to get the cheapest deal, but this does not mean that you have to book months in advance. The best time to book is 21 days before the day of your journey. Incase if you could not, book 7 to 8 days ahead of your travel dates.

• Never end your quest by just visiting one site. Do a research on multiple-sites. If you don’t know the address of such travel sites, use search engines such as Google, yahoo search and so on.

• Sign up for fare alerts like Fares newsletters and RSS fares that the many travel sites offers. Most of the online travel sites allow visitors to sign up free for fare alerts, by which one can get all the latest updates of airfares, hotel deals and so on of a destination through emails.

• Always inquire about extra-charges or any hidden cost before finalizing your deal. Do not give up the PIN number of your credit card besides the three-digit security number on the back of your credit card.

• Once you complete the process of booking, you should receive an email confirming all the details, print it and keep it safe and handy as you will need it while check in at the airport or at the car rental office, if you have booked a rental car.

Next time while buying your travel plans online, follow these simple tips. If you have any tip or experience, feel free to share by posting it as a comment.

Swapping your Home? Here are some Tips

2009-01-09T01:17:00.000-08:00

Planning to take a vacation but worried about all those hotel and restaurant bills. Why don’t you swap your home? Started in Europe, home swapping is a fast spreading trend, allowing vacationers to enjoy the comfort of a home while away from home. Home swapping has myriads of advantages, right from, you get to save on your accommodations; you experience local cultures and traditions at its best, and so on. Just as its advantages, home swapping also has its own downfall, but we can avoid such pitfalls by planning wisely. Here are some tips and tricks that you need to know before and while you swap your home.

1. The most important of all is, don’t rush. Give plenty of time to find the best suitable swap partner. Use a well known established home swapping agency. Before you agree to swap your home, spend time corresponding with your swap partner, this will help you feel more comfortable in entrusting your home to your partner.
2. Ask your partner to leave instructions for using the home appliances such as, washing machine, TV, music system, dryer, and so on. Be extra sure to inquire where the keys will be and nearest food store.
3. If you are traveling with a baby or a toddler, try you best to sway your home with someone who has children of similar age. Ask your swap partner whether they have a regular babysitter or where you can arrange one.
4. Don’t forget to get a list of emergency numbers from your partner. Inquire about nearby attractions, dining areas, neighborhood parks and so on.
5. If your swap includes cars, be sure to check whether your car insurance policy will allow you to add a named driver. If not, then get a policy from a company which understands your needs.
6. Before you depart from your home, be sure that your home is clean and tidy; leave instructions on how to operate your home appliances.

Stay Safe in A foreign Taxi!

2008-12-30T09:05:00.000-08:00

Taxi related crimes and scams are very low compared to other travel related disasters. But we should always follow common precautions especially when traveling to a foreign country. A little carelessness could even spoil your entire vacation like giving away all your valuables just because you manage to board a fake cab. But we can avoid such misfortune by following some common precautions like:

1. No matter where you are traveling, taxi stands can be found outside the airport, bus stations, railway stations, markets or so on and one should always hire cabs only from these stands. As in almost all the countries only legitimate taxis are allowed to stop at these taxi stands.

2. Before boarding a cab always check the taxi company's phone number on the doors and on the trunk of the cab. An authorized company will always advertise their company’s phone number. But, this can be ignored in some cases, like in small towns.

3. Knowing even the slightest of local language always pays off.

4. Collect some general information regarding the direction, about the neighborhood and the cost of the fare, where you are heading at your hotel or ask some friends.

5. Always negotiate and fix the fare before boarding a cab.

6. Sharing a cab with a stranger may allow you to save some bucks, but it is always better spending some extra bucks instead of getting clean robbed.

7. Finally, know who to call in emergencies.

Normally you will find foreign taxis quite safe, but always follow these tips while using taxis in foreign countries as it is always better to be on the safer side.

Traveling to a Foreign Country? Here Are Some Smart Tips

2008-12-29T08:55:00.000-08:00

Who does not love to travel to new places, see new things and experience various cultures and traditions? But is traveling to foreign countries safe? Of course it’s very safe to travel to almost anywhere, be it Middle East, Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia, North, South or Central America, unless that country is in the middle of a war. But while visiting a foreign country, especially a complete foreign country, one should be always on the look out. Here are some tips and tricks on how to enjoy a hassle-free vacation in a foreign.

• The most important of all is; do a research of that destination you will be visiting, in advance. Spend some time surfing the net, check out the endless of online travel sites; visit the country official tourist site. Collect information about the current political situation, best time to visit, tips on accommodations, things and places to avoid, medical related tips, your embassy phone number, emergency numbers and so on.

• Knowing the local customs and traditions is very important, especially while traveling to Middle-East, Africa and some parts of Asia. This includes like how you should dress, especially for ladies, public display of affection (PDA), hand gesture and so on.

• No matter, where you are heading, always try your best to dress like the locals. Leave all your blings at home, try to avoid white sneakers, especially white, and fanny pack. Don’t show off that ultra-chic digital camera or any electronic gadgets like cell phones, iPods in the public.

• As any wise traveler would do, do not keep all your important documents like credit cards, cash, ID cards, and passport in the same place. Get at least three photocopy all your important documents. Never give your passport to the hotel clerks, but in some countries like Italy, you need to surrender your passport to the hotel clerk. In this case, while submitting demand the hotel to issue some sort of written proof that the passport is with the hotel.

• Always carry your bags, handbags or suitcase on the side of the body not facing the traffic. Always be on alert while using public transportations like bus or trains. Avoid places which are not well-lighted. Never exchange your currency with illegal agents.

You need not worry about a thing, even if you are traveling to a complete foreign country. All you have to do is plan wisely and follow common pre-cautions. Head out to the streets of the world, explore and experience the world, life loves to be ridden to the fullest. Feel free to share your tips and experiences by posting it as a comment.

Next Time Make Your Business Trip Hassle Free

2008-12-17T08:44:00.000-08:00

Some travel for business, some for leisure, while some travel just for the sake of travel, no matter what, travel is an unavoidable part of life. With limited budget and time, occasional flight delays or even lost luggage, business travel may not be the most pleasant things to do. Here are some tips to make business travel smoother.

* Booking in advance is always encouraged. Besides, print out your flight confirmation and keep it in handy just in case. Do not book the last flight.
* Try to reach the airport well in advance. Grab a bite before your flight. Drinking alcohol on the plane is highly discouraged unless you are hitting the sack.
* If this is an over-night flight, try to sleep as much as you can. Put a blind-fold and blanket over your head, while sleeping, this way you can prevent dry throat, plus no one will disturb you.
* Decide on what you will be wearing and pack as light as you can. A travel bag with enough space to hold a change of clothes, laptop, charger, phone, pen, paper is very ideal for business travelers. Never put your laptop or any important documents in your hold luggage.
* Do carry along some extra USB memory sticks (also known as pen drives). A pen and papers are a must, just incase if your lap top battery wears down or face any problems.

Traveling is a very enjoyable experience, even if it’s a business trip, if you spend some time planning. Please feel free to share your tips and idea by posting it as a comment.

Isn’t skiing an exciting idea?

2008-12-11T06:23:00.000-08:00

After a long eight months, winter is here at last! So what are your plans for this winter, besides partying, wrapping and unwrapping gifts? Well if you haven’t planned anything yet, why don’t you go skiing? Though some consider skiing trips as for couples and adventure enthuasists, but seriously it’s for everyone. Family can have tons of fun, if you are single you have maximum chances of meeting someone special, party animals will find many nightspots in and around skiing areas. So this winter if you are looking forward for a fun filled, romantic and adventurous winter getaway, I would suggest a ski trip.
Isn’t skiing an exciting idea—then why don’t you pack your bags and head to a ski area and have a blast this winter. Here are some of the coolest and hippest ski destination in North America that won’t mind checking it out.

• Grand Targhee, Wyoming
• Loveland, Colorado
• Bridger Bowl, Montana
• Kirkwood Mountain Resort, California
• Mount Baker, Washington
• Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont
• Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico
• Snowmass Mountain, Colorado
• Alta, Utah
• Lake Louise Mountain Resort, Alberta, Canada

5 Destinations Scuba Divers Would Die to Visit

2008-12-03T06:24:00.000-08:00

Calling all adventure lovers? Does exploring new places’, doing things you have never done and pushing your self to the limit excites you? If yes, then take a trip to some of the world’s most exotic, spell binding and breath taking scuba diving destinations in the world. Scuba without a doubt a doubt is one of the best forms of adventure and not much can beat the thrill, the adventure and the excitement of scuba diving.
Well if you are an adventure enthusiast and looking for a place where you can quench your thirst for action and adventure, here is a list of some of the best scuba diving destinations in the world.

Cozumel Island, Mexico: A romantic island situated in the Caribbean Sea, opposite the Playa del Carmen, Cozumel Island is a paradise for scuba divers. Besides scuba diving, in Cozumel Island you will also enjoy extra bonus such as charter fishing, wind-surfing, kite-surfing, sailing and much more.

Turneffe Island, Belize: Calm, romantic and laid back yet full of action and adventure, Turneffe Island without a doubt is a paradise for water-sports enthusaists. When it comes to scuba diving, this island is second to none.

Heron Island, Australia: A coral cay nested near the Tropic of Capricorn in the southern Great Barrier Reef, Heron Island is a seductress known for luring adventure seeker from across the globe. If you are a scuba diving buffs, let Heron Island cast her spell upon you. You will surely enjoy every bit of it.

Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos: Among one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world, Grand Turk is a must for all scuba diving buffs. Blessed with a colorful marine life, a trip to this enchanting island will sweep you off your feet.

Rocktail Bay, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa: Last but not least, Rocktail Bay situated in Northern Natal has always been a favorite among divers. Known for its diverse marine life, scuba diving in the warm waters of Rocktail Bay is an experience of a lifetime.

Adventure enthusiasts, pack your bags and head to any of these destinations and have a blast. Please feel free to share your diving experiences, your favorite diving spot or tips with other fellow travelers by posting it as a comment.

Three Weirdest Restaurant, Bar and Café in the Planet

2008-12-01T09:35:00.000-08:00

Am sure you must have been to romantic and elegant restaurants, swanky bars and lounges. But have you ever been to a Dwarf café, dined in an underwater restaurant or have you ever been to a bar where staffs are trained to get trashed by costumers. Well if you haven’t been to any such places, this winter try to experience it for yourself. Here are the three most unusual café, restaurant and bar in the world.

Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, Rangalifinolhu, Maldives: Situated five meters below sea level, Ithaa Undersea Restaurant located at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is the first of its kind in the world. With space to serve upto 14 guests, Ithaa Undersea Restaurant is one of the few places in the world where you can comfortably sit, relax and dine without getting even a single hair wet, though you are dining five meters below the sea.

Hobbit House, Ermita, Philippines: If you are visiting Philippines this winter, a visit to Hobbit House is a must. Truly one of a kind, Hobbit House is one of the hippest bars in the city and their popularity owes much to its unique staff, though the bar serves more than 100 different beers. From the doorman to the waiter, from the cashier to the bartender, all of Hobbit House staffs are dwarves. Incase if you want to click some pictures with the staffs, just for memory. Feel free to ask. They will be more than happy to click some pictures with you.

Rising Sun Anger Release Bar, Nanjing, China: Though I have never been to this place, but this is a personal favorite of mine. Rising Sun Anger Release Bar is an excellent place to release your stress, frustrations and anger. This bar does not only allow its costumers to scream as they want, smash glasses or beat up the bar staff. But here you can also let a staff dress up the way you want and then trash him up. Worried that you might hurt the staff? Worry not; the staff wears special protective gears. That’s not all; costumers are also given counseling from local universities psychology students. It’s been also rumored that most of its costumers are women.

This winter if you happen to travel to any of these cities, try not to miss your opportunity. If you know a weird watering hole or a restaurant, please feel free to share with other fellow travelers as a comment.

Three Hotels Beyond Your Regular Hotels

2008-11-21T09:30:00.000-08:00

No matter which part of the globe you travel, you will find almost all the hotels are same. Well, there are some exceptions, such as; you will enjoy more luxuries and services in a 5 star hotel than in a budget hotel or a motel. In general, hotels all looks like the same. If you are tired of experiencing the same service, the setting and so on, here are three hotels that am sure does not have anything in common with any other hotels in the world.

Ice Hotel, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden: Located in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, the Ice Hotel sure is different from other hotels. The biggest of its kind in the world, Ice Hotel is made up of pure ice block. Stay in one of the ice rooms decorated with ice art works and equipped with ice beds and ice furniture, dine in the ice restaurants, mingle with other fellow travelers at the ice bar and buy gifts and souvenirs at the ice gift shop.

Beckham Creek Cave Haven, Parthenon, Arkansas, United States: Whether you are a nature lover, a jet set traveler or just tired of experiencing the same hotel setting over and over again, head to Beckham Creek Cave Haven in Parthenon, Arkansas. No matter who you are and what you desire, you will have it here in Beckham Creek Cave Haven. Truly one of a kind, Beckham Creek Cave Haven is a cave house equipped with all the modern day comfort and luxuries.

Hotel Puerta América, Madrid, Spain: Ever wondered how hotels would be 100 years from today. Well you don’t have to give stress to yourself thinking about that, just head to Hotel Puerta América in Madrid. Though we cannot exactly predict whether hotels would be like this super luxurious establishment a century from now, but Hotel Puerta América has that futuristic appeal from its interiors to furnishing. Your stay in this hotel will surely make you feel as if you have been transported a century ahead.

Enjoy Solo Travel Without Any Hassles

2008-11-19T05:29:00.000-08:00

If you have never traveled alone, you should try it at least once in your lifetime. Many would encourage traveling with friends or groups and discourage traveling alone, but the adventure of traveling alone is quite an experience. Traveling alone has myriad of advantages, including, you get more freedom, you don’t have to please anyone except you, its easier to mingle with locals and other fellow travelers and your time, budget and the experience is all yours. Yet at the same time, traveling alone has its downfalls. Here are some tips that you need to know while traveling solo.

• Since you are traveling alone, you will have to carry your stuffs almost everywhere, whether you are in line to buy your train ticket, while going to the toilet or anywhere else. So pack as light as possible.

• Instead of that luxury 5 star hotel, choose a family run bed & breakfast or a hostel, where you can mingle with locals as well as with other fellow travelers. While going for sightseeing, take a tour bus, this way you will be able to meet more travelers. Be polite and make sure your clothes are clean, if you want to meet more people.

• Knowing even the slightest of local language always pays off. Never take out your map and read it in the streets, if you feel you are lost or you need to know the direction, go to a cafe, grab a bite and do the map reading.

• Get a photocopy of all your important documents and keep the original in your hotel room or somewhere safe. Never carry all your money in one place.

• Stay away from drugs and alcohol, since you are traveling alone and you don’t have anyone to watch your back.

Traveling solo has its advantages as well as disadvantage, yet we can make our solo travel much safer by just planning wisely.

5 Travel Tip While Arriving in a New City: A Must Know

2008-11-13T09:05:00.000-08:00

Arriving in a new city can be quite a challenge, if you have no prior planning. Seriously, traveling to unknown destinations in not everyone’s cup of tea and your thirst for adventure, alone is not enough. As you will also be needing a place to stay, food and so on. Planning is as equally important as your thirst to see new places, travel to unknown destinations or to visit places you have never been to. Here are some things that you need to known while arriving in a new city.

1. Before the day of your journey, do a research or collect information on what that you will be reaching your destination. Avoid arriving on the middle of the night or early in the morning.

2. Book your hotel room in advance. Confirm your reservation in advance, inquire the hotel, whether they provided any means of transportation. If not, you can ask them whether they can arrange someone to pick you from your arrival point or, how much the cab or bus, would charge from the arrival point to the hotel.

3. Always carry extra cash along with you, especially if you have no prior hotel reservation. Even if you have reserved your hotel in advance, you will be need them, since you are visiting this city for the first time and you won’t have any idea where the ATM is. Do carry some change.

4. A good map is a must. You don’t need to buy it from a tourist office or a travel agent, search the net; you will find plenty of excellent sites like Google Maps and Yahoo Maps, offering maps of destinations across the globe.

5. Knowledge of even the slightest of local language will surely reward you, especially if you are arriving in the middle of the night.

Enjoy That Overdue Vacation This Winter

2008-11-11T06:15:00.000-08:00

We all need vacation, once in a while; away from all the daily hum drums but with the current financial scenario taking a vacation would be a tough task for many. Well winter is almost here and if you are planning to go on a vacation yet stuck with your budget, then here are some deals that might just help you take that vacation.

Domestic Round Trip Flight Deals: This winter enjoy your vacation in some of the hippest domestic destinations including Long Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, San Francisco, Fort Lauderdale and Honolulu, to name a few, with CheapOair domestic round trip flight deals. With round trip flight deals just under $199, if you are planning for a vacation close to your home, this deal is for you.

The Caribbean and Mexico: Seeking to escape the cold, head to the Caribbean and Mexico with CheapOair special airfares to the Caribbean and Mexico, round trip fares starting at just $116. Whether it’s Nassau, Port of Spain, Montego Bay, San Juan, Mexico City or Cancun, you will find great round trip flights from your city!

Europe Exclusive Airfares: Europe without a doubt is one of the most visited continents in the planet. Home to some of the greatest cities in the world including, Paris, London, Rome, Venice, Amsterdam and more, a vacation in Europe is an experience of a lifetime! For those planning to travel to Europe, hook up with Cheap Oair Eu rope Exclusive Airfares deals starting at $250 and enjoy a vacation in Europe without putting a hole in your pocket.

Ten Japanese Slang Words: A must know for everyone visiting Japan

2008-11-10T07:49:00.000-08:00

Japan has so much to offer, from technology to fashion, from rich history and culture to sushi, from anime to breathtaking sights and activities. If you are planning to spend your next vacation in Japan, you are going to have a blast.
Am sure you must have planned everything, right from what to see, where to eat, shop, party and relax. So, here are some common local slang words that you need to know and be careful of while.

Ano: A term used to soften when making requests, like "umm..." in English!
Betsuni: A term used to say "not really" or "nothing"
Choudai: A common phrase used among friends while requesting or asking a favor like "can you do it for me?"
Daijoubu: Another very common word used for saying ‘Am Ok’ ‘I’ll be fine’.
Gomen Ne: A term used among friends to say sorry. Please don’t use this word in front of your superiors or elders.
Jaa Ne: Jaa Ne is an informal way of saying ‘catch you later’ or ‘see you later’.
Majide: A word used for saying "Really?", "No way!”.
Sugoi: A very popular term used to express something really good like ‘cool’, ‘wow’ and so on.
Rakki: An Informal way of saying lucky.
Osu: A popular word mostly used among friends to greet each other like ‘hi’, ‘hello.

Well these are the 10 Japanese slang words that you should known before heading to Japan. If you known any such term or phrase, do share with other fellow travelers by posting it as a comment.

Shopaholics Dream Destinations: A Must Visit For All Shopaholics

2008-11-07T08:27:00.000-08:00

What do you like to do while you are on a vacation? For some doing nothing and just relaxing may be the ideal way to spend their vacation, while some may love to see new place, engage in various outdoor activities or just shop, shop and shop. Though it may sound like a political definition, but seriously the meaning of vacation differs from person to person. But who cares about its definition or the meaning? Let’s not waste time in defining, instead take full advantage of this blissful word ‘Vacation’.

This article is solely dedicated to all the shopaholics out there, looking to conquer fresh new shopping streets, malls and markets. This winter forget that beach destination or that romantic destination and quench your thirst for shopping in some of the world’s top shopping destinations.

Here are the lists of CheapOair top 5 shopping destinations in the World:

New York City: The city of opportunity, the city where you can expect the unexpected, the city where everything is possible, New York City is a paradise for shoppers.

Paris: When it comes to shopping, Paris the Garden of Eden for shoppers is a must.

Milan: Some call it the fashion capital of the world, while others call it the Mecca of Designer wears, call Milan whatever you want to, but one thing is for sure, Milan will never disappoint you.

London: From the world renowned department stores like Harrods and Fortnum & Mason to high end fashion boutiques, from all your favorite designer names and brands to one of a kind speciality shop, you name it London has it all.

Hong Kong: Hong Kong, the ultimate destination to test your bargaining skills, , whether it’s a designer wear, a century old antiques, electronics or a replica of your favorite designer dress or a handbag, you will find it all in Hong Kong.

This summer treat yourself to a pure shopping vacation in any of these destinations; you will surely have a blast. You can also help other fellow shopaholics by sharing your favorite shopping destinations by posting it as a comment.

Top 5 Winter Destinations

2008-11-06T08:44:00.000-08:00

So you could not take a vacation this summer or autumn. Well, worry not. Winter is almost here. We all need vacations once in a while, away from our daily hustle and bustle, what better time than this winter to enjoy that long overdue vacation. If you are planning to go on a vacation this winter, here are some of hip destinations that you might want to visit.

Orlando, Florida: Seeking to escape the snow, Head to Orlando. Known for Walt Disney, beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, Orlando is perfect for all.

Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada: If you are planning to travel with your sweet head, try Lake Tahoe. Am sure you won’t be disappointed.

Alaska: Perfect for families, visit Alaska this winter and enjoy from dog sledding to the enchanting northern lights, and more.

Jukkasjarvi: If you being a part of hip urban life, then your winter in Jukkasjarvi will be an experience that you will cherish for a lifetime.

Caribbean’s: Who could think of a vacation without the Caribbean’s? Be it with your family, beloved, friends or alone, Caribbean is the ultimate destination to relax and have fun this winter.

It’s November: Time to Escape the Daily Grind

2008-11-05T07:44:00.000-08:00

With the current financial condition, even thinking of vacationing could give most of us a heart attack. But if you are a member of the frequent flyer miles of US Airways or American Airlines, you may be able to enjoy a weekend or a week’s vacation in some real hip vacation destinations.

Recently I was researching on various airlines, their offers, deals and packages; to be honest I could not find anything worth mentioning. Yet amidst the junk pile I found some hidden treasure that might just help us escape the daily grind and enjoy a vacation.

If you are a member of the frequent flyer miles of US Airways or American Airlines, have earned enough miles than its time to redeem your miles and enjoy a vacation, without breaking the bank.

Here are the top destinations for US Airways and American Airlines frequent flyer for the Month of November-2008.

1. Honolulu
2. Grand Cayman
3. Cancun
4. Venice
5. Tokyo

So if you are a frequent flyer miles of US Airways or American Airlines, with enough miles, what are you waiting for? Book your flight tickets at their website or at your favorite online travel site!

Travel More For Less

2008-10-30T06:07:00.000-07:00

The money-losing airline industry is raising fares and adding fees as it struggles with record-high fuel prices. Many American travelers are opting for "staycations" by choosing not to travel when they have time off. But, as per the experts there are ways to escape the rising air travel costs. According to George Hobica, creator of the travel Web site airfarewatchdog.com - 'there are still many, many, many cheap tickets'. You can get a cheap plane ticket but you're going to need to be very flexible.

Fly on the slowest days of the week

Tuesday and Wednesday are the slowest flying days of the week for business travel so demand is low, and so are the fares.

Fly on slowest time of the year

If you really want some cheap fares, you should travel during the slowest time of year, says Hobica. That rules out holidays, as well as spring, summer and winter.

Fly to popular places at unpopular times

Candy Harrington, editor of Emerging Horizons, suggests being completely flexible about the destination, based on the fare. "Check out the airline Web sites, and see what destinations they have on sale, then build your vacation around that destination".

Buy tickets during cheapest times of the day

Airlines change fares three times a day and early birds snags the best deals. As per Hobica "Early morning is the time to buy." During weekends, check fares on Saturday morning and at 5p.m. when the airlines lowers prices to fill up flights.

Why don't you buy a package

Travel packages offering cut-rate hotel stays and car rentals can save you a lot of money. "They're super bargains," he says. "Even if you don't need the rental car, you could just not pick it up, because the airfare is so cheap" - says Hobica.

How to Get a Free Airline Upgrade

2008-10-24T07:18:00.000-07:00

Air travel can be very comfortable especially if you are traveling in the first class. But not every one of us can afford to enjoy the comfort and the luxury of a first class passenger, unless you get a free airline upgrade. Getting a free upgrade to first class or business class, sounds more of a fairytale yet it does happen! Though getting a free upgrade is very unpredictable but we can increase our chances of landing in first class without spending a fortune. Here are some tips on how to get a free airline upgrade.

* Instead of flying with different airlines, try to stick with one airline and join their frequent flier program. This way you not only increase the chances of getting a free upgrade but you also get access to airport lounges and so on.
* Early afternoon and late evening are probably the best time to get a free upgrade as early-morning flights and late-night flights are usually packed with business travelers.
* Try to book a flight where their economy section is full, you can known whether their economy section is packed or not by going through a false booking on the airline website. As there is so much competition, the airline may squeeze you to first class instead of turning you away.
* How you dress, can also increase or decrease your chances of getting a free upgrade. You need not wear a suit or a tie but at least dress like a business executive as airlines won’t be willing to upgrade a person wearing torn jeans and dirt shoes, to the first class.
* Being polite always pays off and even in the case of getting a free upgrade, being polite sure does help. Ask the check-in staff, ‘whether you are eligible for an upgrade’. Those traveling alone have a bigger chance of getting a free upgrade than those traveling in groups.

Who does not want to travel in first class but everyone cannot afford the luxury of a first class. But with a bit of luck and some common sense we can, not always but at least once in a while.

Reduce the Risk of Having Your Baggage Lost

2008-10-16T06:17:00.000-07:00

What could be worst, after hours and hours of a very tiring flight journey you found out that your luggage has been sent to another city! The story of luggages getting transferred to another city while the owner is in another city is not a new tale and a missing luggage could even spoil your entire vacation. Though till now, none has come up with a full proof way to totally eradicate the problem, yet we can reduce the risk of luggages going astray by following some common precautions like:

• Remove old stickers and tags from your previous trip.
• Try to book a direct flight
• Pack all your valuables on a carry-on bag
• Add your name and address on the outside and inside of each bags
• Use a bigger and a distinctive luggage tag
• Check in early
• Get your luggage insured
• Always keep your baggage receipts in a safe place
• In case if your baggage go missing keep a copy of all the documentations produced by the airline and do not leave the airport until you are through with all the necessary paper for the baggage agent.

Next time when you travel follow these simple and common tips. If you have any tips that's not listed, please feel free to share it, by posting it as a comments. Your tip would be of great use to other fellow travelers.

Booking Hassle Free Travel Plans on online Travel Sites

2008-10-15T06:57:00.000-07:00

Lately I have come across articles, blazing out about the hazards of booking airline tickets, hotels, car rentals and vacation packages through online travel sites. I don’t disagree with them but I don’t even agree with them as everything has its bad as well as good sides and in most of the cases, we fall into such pitfalls because of our own carelessness. Seriously, I have been using various online travel sites like CheapOair, Expedia, OneTravel, Tripadvisor, Orbitz and so on for years, to book my flight, hotels and more and I have always noticed that travel has become cheaper, more convenient and easier since the birth of online travel.

Here are some tips and tricks that you need to known while booking your travel plans online:

• Hook up with a well known, reputed online travel site, which offers secure booking page. Check out the site terms and conditions; read the cancellation policy and browse the FAQ section, if you have any doubts.

• Booking in advance is undeniably the best way to get the cheapest deal, but this does not mean that you have to book months in advance. The best time to book is 21 days before the day of your journey. Incase if you could not, book 7 to 8 days ahead of your travel dates.

• Never end your quest by just visiting one site. Do a research on multiple-sites. If you don’t know the address of such travel sites, use search engines such as Google, yahoo search and so on.

• Sign up for fare alerts like Fares newsletters and RSS fares that the many travel sites offers. Most of the online travel sites allow visitors to sign up free for fare alerts, by which one can get all the latest updates of airfares, hotel deals and so on of a destination through emails.

• Always inquire about extra-charges or any hidden cost before finalizing your deal. Do not give up the PIN number of your credit card besides the three-digit security number on the back of your credit card.

• Once you complete the process of booking, you should receive an email confirming all the details, print it and keep it safe and handy as you will need it while check in at the airport or at the car rental office, if you have booked a rental car.

Next time while buying your travel plans online, follow these simple tips. If you have any tip or experience, feel free to share by posting it as a comment.

5 Tips to Make Your Overnight Flight Trip More Comfortable

2008-10-14T06:41:00.000-07:00

Flying without a doubt is the fastest, easiest and the most comfortable way to travel but an overnight flight can be very stressful and unpleasant. If you are traveling in the first class or business class, you won’t have to compromise much on comfort but for economy class travelers, an overnight flight is quite a challenge. Here are some tips to make your overnight flight trip more comfortable.

1. Choosing the right seat is the key to a comfortable journey. Since you are taking an overnight flight, you will definitely want to sleep and in this case, none serves better than a window seat. An aisle seat is also a great option, if you are looking for more arm room. Try to avoid the absolute rear of the plane.

2. Though most airlines offer entertainment but bringing your own entertainment, like an iPod, game boy, novel or a magazine is highly recommended.

3. Don’t forget your tooth brush and toiletries, including a deo and ofcourse, wet ones to help you freshen up.

4. Move around; take a stroll up and down along the aisle a few times. Contact your airline and ask whether you can request a special meal or you can carry bring your own meal. As most of the airlines foods are not that healthy as well as tasty.

5. Drink plenty of water. Bring along a high quality noise-isolating headphone, this will help in reducing the plane noise. If you are taking sleeping pills, consider using only half of the pill as flight crew should be able to wake you up in case of an emergency.

Next Time, while taking an overnight flight, follow these simple tips, these will definitely make your trip more comfortable.

Travel Insurance a Must for Travelers

2008-10-13T06:38:00.000-07:00

Going on a vacation? Am sure you must have booked your flight tickets, your hotel rooms well in advance, researched on what to see and do and where to shop, dine and party. Well what about your travel insurance? Buying travel insurance before taking any trip is just as important as booking your flight, hotels and so on in advance.

The advantage of getting your travel insured has lots of advantages, and depending on the plan you are taking, you insurance policy will cover everything from lost luggage, medical emergencies to delay and cancellation of your flights and more. Incase, if you have never bought travel insurance before, here are some tips to help your get the best policy for your travel.

1. The most important of all is doing a research on various insurance companies before your finalize your decision. Check out the background of the company and their customer satisfaction.

2. Read the policy carefully, know what your policy is covering like canceled or the flight is delayed, medical emergencies, lost luggage. Make sure that your policy covers the full length of your trip.

3. If you have any pre-existing medical conditions or going to engage in any adventure sports like skiing, snowboarding and so on, do declare in advance.

4. Always discuss with a travel agent or a travel expert before finalizing your deal.

Tip on How to Get the Best Hotel Deals

2008-10-03T07:59:00.000-07:00

You must have noticed many times, different guests in the same hotel paying different prices. Well this is not a new tale and I guess it must have been like this from the very first day the first hotel, inn or whatever, came into existence. Who does not want the best available price, especially when it comes to hotel? Getting the best available hotel price is not a tough job; all you need is some planning. Here are some tips on how to get the best hotel deal.

* There are countless of online travel sites like CheapOair, Hotwire and OneTravel, use these sites to book your hotel room. These sites do really offer great deals and believe it or not, many companies offer discounts while booking online.
* Check out the price of a particular hotel at different sites before booking. If hotel has a website, you can also book through their website but before booking compare the price with other sites.
* Call the hotel; inquire whether the hotel is offering any discounts. If you are a member of a club or an association like American Automobile Association, ask them whether you can get a special deal or discounts.
* Sometimes, walking in without any advance reservation and negotiation the rate with the front desk staff can also get you a great deal. In many case, most hotels gives you a discount instead of instead of turning you away, just for the sake of competition.

These are some tips to help you get the best hotel deal. Next time, while booking a room, follow these simple tips.

Tips on Planning a Cruise Vacation

2008-09-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

If you are seeking for a vacation filled with nothing but relaxation, relaxation and relaxation, then a vacation on a cruise ship may not be a bad idea. Well, when it comes to enjoying a relaxing vacation, I would say a vacation on a cruise would be the best as your hotel, your transportation, restaurants, nightclub and even shopping centers travel with you, plus you see multiple destinations without the pain of packing and unpacking. So, if you are going on a cruise, here are some tips and tricks that will help you enjoy a more comfortable and hassle-free vacation.

• Plan your travel in such a way that you reach the destination from where your cruise starts, a day ahead. This way even if you experience travel pitfalls like delayed flights or even worse, you don’t have to worry about missing your ship.
• Avoid the cabins close to the Laundry and the elevator, unless you don’t mind dealing with crowds waiting for the elevator or to do their laundry and sometimes it even gets very noisy.
• No doubt, you will find the shore excursions operated by locals much cheaper than cruise lines excursions, but it is always encourage that you take the cruise lines excursions or stick with those companies that the cruise line recommends.
• Pack your clothes depending on the destination. Don’t forget your passport. Do bring along a formal outfit.

Top 10 Fall Destinations

2008-09-23T09:11:00.000-07:00

Missed your summer break? Well ‘Fall’ is here and if you still have that thirst for a vacation, this is your chance to take a relaxing off, far away from all the hustle and bustle of your daily life. Many fellow travelers (including me) considered taking a fall break rather than a summer break as taking a fall vacation has tons of advantages, such as less crowds, more pocket friendly and so on. If you are planning for a fall vacation, here are some destinations carefully handpicked just for you:

Napa Valley, USA
Hawaii, USA
New York, USA
Great Smoky Mountains, USA
San Francisco, USA
London, England
Florence, France
Munich, Germany
Marrakesh, Morocco
Shanghai, China

Travel Tips for People with Disabilities

2008-09-19T06:37:00.000-07:00

Live loves to be ridden to the fullest and your disabilities should never come between you and travel or enjoying a vacation. Whether you are traveling to a nearby city or to a foreign country, with a little planning and some handy tips and tricks up your sleeves, your can always enjoy a fun and an exciting travel. Here are some basic and common travel tips for people with disabilities.

The most important of all is planning in advance. Do a research on the destination you are traveling to, including airport and hote l facilities for disabled travelers, transportation from the airport to your hotel and so on.
While booking your travel plans like airline tickets, ask the travel agent or the airline booking agent about the facilities that are being offered and let them known what kind of assistance you will require. It is always better to hook up with renowned travel agents specialized in working with people with disabilities.
Do a research on the destination you are traveling, such as on attractions, dining, shopping and so on. Check out whether you require any immunizations or any special medications. Get a good health insurance.
If you would be requiring the help of a service dog, check in advance, whether the destination where you are traveling allows you to bring a service dog or not. As some countries have restrictions on service dogs.

Traveling to new places, seeing new things, experiencing different cultures and tradition is an experience that cannot be compared with anything. One should never let anything come between you and living your life to the fullest.

Tips for Air Travel during Pregnancy

2008-09-05T03:13:00.000-07:00

Unless you are very close to labor, traveling while pregnant is almost safe. No doubt, your near and dear ones will definitely be against it but traveling while pregnant can be fun, exciting and adventurous, plus, will allow you to release the stress of pregnancy. Here are some tips that will make your air travel during pregnancy more pleasurable, comfortable and convenient.

Consult your doctor before planning your trip. Check out the airline regulations for pregnant travelers. Avoid places where you require immunization.
While booking your airline ticket, let the attendants know that you are pregnant and you need an aisle seat, so you won’t have much trouble going to the bathroom. Get a medical certificate from your doctor confirming that it’s safe for you to travel.
Forget the latest trend in the fashion world and wear a comfortable shoe. Your feet and back will get more support by wearing a good, comfortable shoe. Don’t forget to bring along an iPod, a MP3 player or a walkman to kill your time. If you love reading, a romantic novel or books on Pregnancy & Childcare will also keep you entertained the whole flight.
Take care of what you are eating. It’s always better to bring your own food from home, besides almost every airline offers travelers to order special meals in advance. Please avoid junk foods.
Always keep your emergency contact numbers, such as your doctor, husband and family, in handy. If possible, travel with a friend.

How to Make Your Road Trip Romantic

2008-09-03T03:23:00.000-07:00

Planning for a romantic trip with your beloved? I believe many of us would rather board a cruise ship or a luxury train, than take a road trip. Well road trips were never meant to be boring, tiring and time consuming, it’s just that many of us have forgotten or never learned how to enjoy a road trip. Road trips can be fun, exciting and romantic, plus the advantages of taking a road trips is myriads. You don’t need to spend a fortune; you don’t have to share your time with anyone except your sweetheart, above all, almost anybody can afford a road trip. If you going on a road trips with your beloved here are some tips on how to make your road trip romantic.

The most important of all is choosing the right route. Plan your trip together, know where your beloved would like to go, places he/she would like to see.
Bring along some CDs as you won’t be able to enjoy your radio while traveling beyond city limits. Be wise while selection the songs, songs related to your relations, songs you have heard on your first date and your beloved’s favorite songs are highly recommended. But do bring along some songs which are punchy and fun to listen, such as ‘Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da’ by the Beatles, ‘Dance the night away’ by Van Halen (a personal favorite of mine) and so on.
Stop at scenic points, rest stops and enjoy the moment. Watch the sunrise and sunset; take pictures of you two while passing through diverse landscapes, different states and towns.
Add more spice to your trip by sharing amusing conversations, such as your beloved plans for the near future. Play silly kids games, shop at 24-hour grocery store.
Enjoy your overnight stay in one bedroom motel rooms. You can also add more color to your trip by staying at rest stops.

America’s Top Ten Beaches

2008-09-01T03:11:00.000-07:00

Why should we travel to the Caribbean’s, the Maldives or to the Bahamas to enjoy its sunny beaches, when we have some really amazing beaches right in our back yard. No doubt, these destinations may be home to some of the best beaches in the world but a vacation in any of these destinations also comes with a heavy price tag. Some years back the Caribbean’s, the Maldives and the Bahamas were very affordable, but with the increase in the number of visitors every year, these destinations are becoming more crowded and more expensive. If you are planning for a beach vacation, head to any of the beaches listed below. You will have everything from romance and relaxation to action, adventure and fun.

1. Kiawah Island, South Carolina

2. Caladesi Island State Park, Dunedin, Florida

3. Siesta Beach, Sarasota, Florida

4. Hanalei Bay, Kauai, Hawaii

5. Hamoa Beach, Maui, Hawaii

6. Mauna Kea Beach, Big Island, Hawaii

7. Santa Barbara, East Beach, California

8. Santa Barbara, East Beach, California

9. Cumberland Island, Georgia

10. South Padre Island, Texas

Top Ten Haunted House in the World

2008-08-21T04:09:00.000-07:00

Does ghost stories, haunted houses and stories of restless spirits excites you? If yes, then you are in for a treat. Many may not believe it but if you are a die hard fan of supernatural forces, restless souls and ghosts, this is a must try. Even if you are a non-believer who knows a night in a haunted hotel might even completely change your opinion. If you are seeking for an experience of a lifetime, here are some of the best haunted hotels that will definitely offer you with an unnerving experience.

1. Castle Leslie, Glaslough, County Monaghan, Ireland

2. Castle Stuart, Petty Parish, Inverness, Scotland

3. Comlongon Castle, Clarencefield, Galloway, Scotland

4. The Langham London, London, England

5. G rand Hotel Villa Di Corliano , San Giuliano Terme, Italy

6. The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Alberta, Canada

7. The Hotel Del Coronado, Coronado, California, USA

8. Queen Mary Hotel, Long Beach, California, USA

9. Hotel Maison de Ville, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

10. The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado, USA

Unfortunately even if you are staying in a haunted hotel, chances are there that you might not encounter any paranormal experiences. The best way to increase you chances is to spend sometime researching. Even if you miss the chance, worry not, a stay in any of these hotels will shower you with a world of comfort and luxuries!

Top Five Low-Cost Carriers Airlines in North America

2008-08-20T03:26:00.000-07:00

North America is an amazing vacation destination for all. Be it sunny beaches, snow topped mountains, hip urban cities, quaint towns and villages or lush forest, you name it, you will find it all here. Traveling to North America can also be very affordable, especially if you are a veteran budget traveler but even if you are not, still then you will find North America very affordable. But you too need to know some tips and tricks on how to travel in North America.

If you are traveling to North America on a tight budget, here are some low cost carriers airlines that will definitely help you save big on your flight tickets.

US Airways: The sixth largest airline in the United States, US Airways flies to more than 240 destinations in North America, Central America, the Caribbean, Hawaii and Europe.
AirTran Airways: A favorite among budget travelers, AirTran Airways based in Orlando, Florida, USA, offers excellent on-board and ground services and facilities.
Frontier Airlines: A low-cost airline based at Denver International Airport in Denver, Colorado, USA, with Frontier Airlines, whether you are flying business class or economy class, you can always enjoy maximum comfort, service and facilities.
WestJet Airlines: One of Canada’s most popular low cost airlines, WestJet Airlines flies to top destinations including Toronto, Ottawa, Winnipeg, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Tampa and Orlando.
Spirit Airlines: Operating flight services to more than 29 cities across the US, the Caribbean, Bahamas and Latin America, Spirit Airlines offers maximum, comfort, services and facilities at the lowest cost.

Tips On How To Splurge On A Tight Budget

2008-08-19T02:24:00.000-07:00

Traveling with a tight budget is not everyone’s cup of tea. Right from the flight to hotel rooms, from dinning to shopping and from getting around to nightlife and so on, one has to sacrifice a lot. But budget travelers it’s high time we splurge while we travel to various destinations yet without breaking the bank.

To splurge on a tight budget is not that easy but it’s not even impossible. Though it may sound like a dream but seriously we can. All we need is proper planning, a little research and a bit of luck. Here are some tips on how to splurge on a tight budget.

Get a Free Upgrade: The only way to travel first class with an economy flight ticket is getting a free upgrade. Getting free upgrades is not an easy task but you can increase your chances by joining an airline frequent flyer program and sticking with that airline every time you fly. Do a false booking on the airline website and book a flight where their economy section is already full; by this the airline may squeeze you to first class instead of turning you away as there is so much competition.

Getting The Best Hotel Deal: Visit the many online travel sites like CheapOair, Hotwire, OneTravel, and Orbitz, to name a few. These online travel sites do really offer excellent deals and package. You can also check out the hotel website. Call the hotel and inquire whether the hotel is offering any discounts. If you are a member of a club or an association like American Automobile Association, ask them whether you can get a special deal or discounts. You may also walk in without any advance reservation and negotiation the rate with the front desk staff, most hotels will give you a discount instead of turning you away, just for the sake of competition.

Renting a Cheap Rental Car: Who does not love explore a city on a car instead of crowded city buses or underground trains. But unfortunately most of us (budget travelers) can’t afford the luxury of a rental car while traveling. Yet we all can get a cheap rental car that will fit our budget by just booking well in advance, booking through online travel sites or at the rental car company website, as most site offers more discounts to those booking online.

Next time when you travel, follow these simple tips. You will definitely save more yet enjoy even more.

Top Ten Hostels in the World

2008-08-13T04:33:00.000-07:00

Hostels have always been a favorite among budget travelers, as be it Europe, Asia, North America or anywhere else, a hostel undeniably is the cheapest of all accommodation. Staying in a hostel while traveling has tons of advantages, right from, you get to mingle with other fellow travelers to saving big on accommodation.

Unfortunately many terms hostels as crappy and noisy, but in the last few years, hostels all over the world have undergone massive transformations. Today, in most hostels one can find everything from single room with private bathroom and toilet to WiFi in room, guest kitchen, wheelchair access, BBQ area, bicycle rental and much more. Next time, while you out exploring the world try your stay in a hostel, you will surely love the stay. Here is a list of some of the best hostels in the world.

1. Villa Saint Exupery, Nice, France

2. Cat's Hostel, Madrid, Spain

3. Art Hostel, Sofia, Bulgaria

4. Long Street Backpackers, Cape Town, South Africa

5. Sleeping with the Enemy, Sydney, Australia

6. The Gershwin, New York, US

7. HI Buffalo Niagara, Buffalo, USA

8. Casa Esmeralda, Buenos Aires, Argentina

9. Backpacker Hostel K’s House, Tokyo, Japan

10. Spicy Thai Backpackers, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Top 10 Cruise Ships in the World

2008-08-06T03:26:00.000-07:00

Taking a vacation on a cruise ship is simply unbeatable, if you are seeking for the ultimate relaxation. The advantages of taking a cruise is myriads, your hotel and your transportation, travel with you, you don’t have to worry about local transportation, you don’t have to worry about dining and above all you get to see multiple destinations without facing the trouble of packing and unpacking.

Today, there are tons of cruise ships, allowing vacationers to see the world from the comfort of a floating luxury hotel and you will also find cruise ships offering various deals and packages to different groups of travelers like families, couples, honeymooners, seniors, gays and lesbian travelers. Here is a list of some of the world most luxurious cruise ships:

1. Crystal Cruises
2. Regent Seven Seas Cruises
3. Oceania Cruises
4. Disney Cruise Line
5. Cunard Line
6. Celebrity Cruises
7. Holland America Line
8. Orient Lines
9. Princess Cruises
10. Royal Caribbean International

No doubt, a vacation in a cruise ship does comes with a hefty price tag, but the romance, relaxation, and the comfort that you enjoy on a cruise ship is worth every penny spent.

America's Top 5 Scenic Road Trips

2008-07-29T05:19:00.000-07:00

Vacations, especially summer breaks can be spent in myriads of ways; you can head to a beach destination, a hill station or anywhere else your heart desire. But what most of us don’t realize is we tend to spend our vacation more or less the same as the last vacation. If you are looking for a change in the way you spend your vacation, try a road trip, I am sure you will love it.

A road trip will include everything from driving through breathtaking scenery, diverse landscape, experiencing various cultures, visiting historic and cultural attractions and much more. The advantages of taking road trips has countless of advantages, right from, you don’t have to spend a fortune, you don’t have to worry about booking your hotel rooms or you airline tickets and so on.

America's Top 5 Scenic Road Trips:

Blue Ridge Parkway (North Carolina & Virginia)
Hana Highway (Hawaii)
Seward Highway (Alaska)
U.S. Route 550 (New Mexico to Colorado)
NC 12 (North Carolina)

On your next vacation, try something different. Pack your bags and hit the road. You will just love the action, the adventure and the romance that awaits you.

How to Pack Wisely While Traveling

2008-07-24T07:39:00.000-07:00

Packing your stuffs the right way is very important, whether you are traveling to a foreign country or just to a nearby by city. Traveling is an experience that we all love but traveling can sometimes be agonizing and most of the times it’s because of our carelessness. Of course, we learn from our mistakes, but won’t it be better if we don’t commit any mistake at all especially while traveling.

Packing may not be the most important issue related to travel pitfalls but sometimes it may land you in a whole lot of mess. So, here are some tips on how to pack wisely while traveling.

Make a list of all the things you will need. But make that list as according to the number of nights and days you will be staying, known the climate of the place your are visiting.
Buy miniature toiletries, buy those solid soap-block forms; pack all your toiletries in a plastic bag, unless you don’t mind having your toiletries spilled over your clothes.
To save more space, wrap clothes around other stuffs like your toiletries; stuff your shoes with your underwear and socks, this will let you save more space as well as prevent the shoe from crushing. Roll the clothes instead of folding; don’t pack those stuffs which you can buy after reach your destination like shaving kits and so on.
If you need more space, a great way is to squeeze all the air out, close the bag and keep it bag in vertical position for a few hours, this way you will have at least 3-4 extra inches of space.
Even if you checking one main bag, take a carry-on bag, where you can carry along change clothing and all your important documents.

Next time while traveling make sure that you pack only those things that you will need. Try to pack as light as you can.

CheapOair Tips for taking Connecting Flights

2008-07-22T05:50:00.000-07:00

Recently, while surfing the net, I have come across many articles about the pitfalls of connecting flights and the experiences of travelers taking more than one flight to reach a destination. Taking multiple flights to reach a destination may not be that pleasurable but at the same time, it can be fun. Though most would not agree with the ‘Fun’ part, but seriously, taking connecting flights is really an experience. You don’t need to be a travel guru to avoid the pitfalls of connecting flights, all you have to do is spend some time planning and researching before you begin your journey. Here are some tips for taking connecting flights:

1. Visit the airport website, check out the airport layout map, you will find where you will be arriving and where the departing gate are located. If the airport does not have a website, during your flight, go though the airline magazines, most airline magazines have maps of the airports that the airline serves.

2. The boarding pass for your connecting flight should always be in your name. If you are not sure, about the terminal and the gate number of your next flight ask a gate agent or check the monitors for gate information.

3. Always pay attentions to the airport announcement as sometimes there can be changes in the gate number for your connecting flight and if so, the airport will announce the changes.

4. Besides your carry-on items, you need not worry about the checked bags as the airline baggage handlers will transfer all the checked bags from one plane to another. But inquire the airline about the checked bags before the journey.

5. In case, if your connecting flight departs before your flight deplanes, don’t hesitate to demand for concession.

Whether you are taking a direct flight or connecting flights, planning wisely is the key to a hassle free travel. Next time, take some time and plan before you begin your journey.

Europe’s Best Luxury Trains

2008-07-21T06:34:00.000-07:00

Planning a trip to Europe? Why don’t you board a train and experience Europe from a whole new angle? Well am not talking about the regular commuter trains. These trains are considered as some of the worlds most luxurious, elegant and stylish trains. Loaded with only the best of modern day comfort and luxuries, these trains are second to none when it comes to romance, comfort and pampering. Sounds tempting, well why don’t you try it for yourself, here is the list of Europe’s best luxury trains:

1. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

2. The Danube Express

3. The British Pullman

4. The Northern Belle

5. The Royal Scotsman

These are some of the best and the most luxurious trains in Europe and no doubt these trains comes with a very heavy price tag but every penny spend is well worth.

How to Get a Free Airline Upgrade

2008-07-17T05:57:00.000-07:00

Instead of flying with different airlines, try to stick with one airline and join their frequent flier program. This way you not only increase the chances of getting a free upgrade but you also get access to airport lounges and so on.
Early afternoon and late evening are probably the best time to get a free upgrade as early-morning flights and late-night flights are usually packed with business travelers.
Try to book a flight where their economy section is full, you can known whether their economy section is packed or not by going through a false booking on the airline website. As there is so much competition, the airline may squeeze you to first class instead of turning you away.
How you dress, can also increase or decrease your chances of getting a free upgrade. You need not wear a suit or a tie but at least dress like a business executive as airlines won’t be willing to upgrade a person wearing torn jeans and dirt shoes, to the first class.
Being polite always pays off and even in the case of getting a free upgrade, being polite sure does help. Ask the check-in staff, ‘whether you are eligible for an upgrade’. Those traveling alone have a bigger chance of getting a free upgrade than those traveling in groups.

Who does not want to travel in first class but everyone cannot afford the luxury of a first class. But with a bit of luck and some common sense we can, not always but at least once in a while.

Top 10 Amusement Parks in the World

2008-07-15T04:09:00.000-07:00

Looking for a cool place to take your kids or to spend a fun filled day with your beloved, to let your imagination run wild, try an amusement park. No matter how old you are, visiting an amusement park is always fun and exciting. Thanks to today’s cutting edge technology, amusement parks are coming up with more and more sophisticated ideas and plans to offer the best of thrill, excitement and entertainment. Here is a list of some of the best amusement parks in the world.

1. Cedar Point, Sandusky, Ohio, United States

2. Islands of Adventure, Orlando, Florida, United States

3. Holiday World, Santa Claus, Indiana, United States

4. Six Flags Magic Mountain, Valencia, California, United States

5. Europa Park, Rust, Baden Wuerttemberg, Germany

6. Blackpool Pleasure Beach, Blackpool, Lancashire, United Kingdom

7. PortAventura, Salou, Tarragona, Spain

8. Alton Towers, Alton, Staffordshire, United Kingdom

9. Knoebels, Elysburg, Pennsylvania, United States

10. Busch Gardens Europe, Williamsburg, Virginia, United States

CheapOair Top 5 Adventure Sports Destinations in the US

2008-07-14T04:21:00.000-07:00

Thirsty for action and adventure, quench your thirst in some of the best adventure sports destinations in the US. From white-water rafting and kayaking to mountain biking and rock climbing, from snowboarding and skiing to surfing and sailing, here are some place where you can have the best of the best of action and adventure.

CheapOair Top 5 Adventure Sports Destinations in the US are:

Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona): Located in the state of Arizona, Grand Canyon is one of nature’s most wondrous creations. No doubt its breathtaking sights are what drag the thousands of visitors every year, but that’s not all. If you are an adrenaline junkie, Grand Canyon is just perfect to engage in White-water rafting, rock climbing, hiking and mountain biking.

Joshua Tree National Park (California): Experience rock climbing at its best here in Joshua Tree National Park. With more than 400 climbing formations and 8,000 climbing routes, Joshua Tree is considered as one of the best rock climbing destinations in the world. Besides rock climbing, here you may also enjoy hiking, mountain biking and horse backing riding.

Glacier Bay National Park (Alaska): Snow-capped Mountains rising up to 15,000 feet, coastal beaches with protected coves, deep fjords, tidewater glaciers, and freshwater lakes, Glacier Bay National Park definitely is worth exploring. Here from kayaking, canoeing and fishing to hiking, wildlife viewing, and flight seeing, you will have it all.

Bridger Bowl, Montana: With a vertical of 2,000 feet, plus an additional 600 feet know as the Ridge, Bridger Bowl offers great skiing experience for skier of all abilities. Comprised of two large bowls, the north and the south bowl, whether its skiing, snowboarding or snowmobiling, Bridger is just perfect for any kind of snow sports.

Oahu (Hawaii): When it comes to surfing, Oahu undeniably stands as one of the best in the world. Home to the birth place of big wave surfing Waimea Bay, Ehukai Beach and sunset beach to name a few, if you are a die hard wave rider, Oahu is a must.

Things You Need to Know While Planning Your First Cruise

2008-07-10T08:04:00.000-07:00

Planning your first cruise? Well, planning for your first cruise may not be the easiest thing to do, but it’s not that tough also. Here are some tips that will help you plan your first cruise.

• The most important of all is deciding on what kind of cruise line and vacation you are interested, is it one of those super luxurious ship where your can enjoy the best of all the modern luxuries and comfort or just to see the world in a comfortable ship. If you cannot decide, talk to a travel agent, ask a friend or research on the internet.

• The internet is a very powerful tool and seriously the internet has almost anything and everything we can think of including information on Cruise. Before booking your ticket, check out the website of the cruise line, do a research on what you will be offered, their cabin layout, compare the price with other cruise line.

• Booking your round trip airline tickets from the cruise line will be more expensive than booking your plane tickets separately but, in case if your flight is delayed or cancelled, most cruise liners offers its passenger to catch up the ship on the next port by hooking them up with an another flight.

• Buying travel insurance totally depends up to you. But it is always advisable to buy travel insurance in case of lost luggage, airline cancellations and delays, emergency medical and so on. You can buy travel insurance from the cruise line or from a travel agent but its always best if you buy from a well known travel insurance company.

• Do carry your passport, if you are traveling to a country that requires you to have a passport, pack your bags as light as possible, as you will find possibly anything you need inside the ship. Pack your clothes depending on the destination, do bring along a formal outfit as most restaurants inside the cruise require you to dress in formal.

These are some tips and tricks that you need to known while planning for your first cruise and in case if you are still confused, you can check out an online travel site or talk to a travel agent.

Tips for Hassle-Free Car Rental

2008-07-09T05:07:00.000-07:00

Whether traveling for business or leisure, a rental car can definitely make your trip more convenient, pleasant and at the same time offer you more freedom. But we need to be careful while renting a car as a rental car can land us in a whole lot of mess, if not planned wisely. Here are some tips that you need to know while renting a car.
• First, decide the kind of car you need, for how many days and facilities such as a baby seat that you require.
• For the best deal, reserving in advance undeniably is the best. Besides making a reservation in advance will also allow you to choose from a wider list. Booking online is also another great way to save as many companies offer discounts to those booking online.
• Always choose a major rental car company or a well known travel site.
• Ask about the company's cancellation policy, like cancellation charges and so on.
• Check the vehicle thoroughly before driving off and be sure that any damage found in the car enters the contract.
• inquire about the company’s fuel options and mileage restrictions.
• In case, if your auto insurance does not cover rental cars, you can purchase one of the rental company insurance policies, but check out the provisions, limitations, and exclusions before concluding the deal.
• Find out whether the company charge extra for pick up and drop, any additional charges for vehicles picked up at an airport, their emergency service and contact numbers.
• Using the same car rental company always pays off, as many companies offer loyalty programs and discounts to its regular customers.
• Always return your rental car on time as car rental rates mostly runs on a 24-hour basis and even an hour late could cost you as high as one-third of the daily rate.
These are some very common and simple tips that we need to follow while renting a car.

How to See Paris without Spending a Fortune

2008-07-08T04:25:00.000-07:00

Paris without a doubt is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and from historic and cultural sights to shopping, dining and nightlife, Paris offer only the best but beware it all comes with a hefty price tag. No doubt Paris is an expensive place to visit but at the same time I would say Paris is also a paradise for budget travel. Seriously, you don’t need a fortune to see Paris; all you need is proper planning.

Here are some tips on ‘How to See Paris without Spending a Fortune’.

Getting Around: Just to travel from one point to another, the Metro, undeniably, is the fastest and the cheapest means but to see more of Paris, take a Paris L’Open Bus Tour which charges around €26 per person or hop on to one of the city buses, which are very tourist friendly. For more active travelers, renting a bicycle or a skate is an amazing way to see the city. But above all, nothing beats the experience of exploring Paris on foot.

Dining: Paris may be Europe's culinary centers but eating out in Paris can be very expensive. While dining out in Paris always order from the Prix-Fixe menu, dine in those small restaurants where average locals go for lunch. If your accommodation has a kitchen, cook your own meal, you will find possibly anything and everything you need in markets like Boul Richard Lenoir and Rue Mouffetard.

Accommodations: Hostels are the cheapest form of accommodations in Paris, but if hostels are not your thing, book a hotel in neighborhoods like 10th Arrondissement near Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est. If you are visiting in group, rent a vacation apartment.

No matter where you are heading, planning ahead, booking your airline tickets, hotel rooms in advance, researching on that destination and knowing when to go always pays off.

CheapOair Top 10 Most Romantic Honeymoon Destinations

2008-07-04T04:03:00.000-07:00

Honeymoon undeniably is one of the most cherished celebrations in one’s life and as the first step together towards a new life; your honeymoon should be the most memorable of all the vacations. Honeymoon is not just about releasing that week long wedding stress, but you also get to know each other better, make plans for the future and above all your honeymoon is the foundation of your married life.

Carefully handpicked just for honeymooners, where you can have the most, CheapOair Top 10 Most Romantic Honeymoon Destinations include:
1. Tahiti
2. Venice
3. Paris
4. San Francisco
5. Seychelles
6. St Lucia
7. Reykjavik
8. Fiji
9. Mauritius
10. Hawaii

Even though these destinations are some of the most romantic places in the world, before heading out to any of these destinations, spend some time with your beloved discussing where you would like to go and what kind of honeymoon you would like to take, as each of the listed destinations is unique and special from the other.

The Colorado Dragon Boat Festival-2008

2008-07-03T07:15:00.000-07:00

Attracting more than 100,000 spectators from across the country, Colorado Dragon Boat Festival is one of the biggest Asian American cultural events celebrated in the Rocky Mountain region. An action packed two day festival with something for everyone, Colorado Dragon Boat Festival showcases the cultural diverseness, the rich heritage and the traditions of Asia.

The dates are out for this year and the festival is all set to be held from 26-27 of July-2008 at Sloan's Lake Park, Denver, Colorado. With the Dragon Boat races as the main attraction of the festival, this year, in Colorado Dragon Boat Festival you will witness some 30 traditional and contemporary Asian performing artists. That’s not all; the festival will also feature the “Dragonland” and the “Gateway to Asia” for kids, plus more than 100 vendors, food concessionaires and much more.

When: 26-27 of July-2008
Where: Sloan's Lake Park, Denver, Colorado
Admission: Free

CheapOair- Top 3 ‘Off the Beaten Path’ Destinations

2008-07-02T05:57:00.000-07:00

Do you love adventure, exploring new things, experiencing local culture and traditions at its best? Then forget that hip and happening destination, everyone is heading and plan a vacation to an off the beaten path destination. You may not have all the glitz, glamour and luxury of that hip vacation destination but a vacation in an off the beaten path destination will definitely offer you maximum relaxation, allow you to escape from the crowd and above of all wont get a big headache at the sight of you bank balance after your vacation.

Check out the CheapOair- Top 3 Off the Beaten Path Destinations

• Sligo (Ireland) A picturesque costal town nested in the province of Connacht, a trip to Sligo will include everything from discovering rich history and colorful cultural life to exploring breathtaking outdoors, indulging in adventurous water sports, shopping and savoring delicious local cuisine.

• Havelock Island (India) Located in the Andaman Islands, Havelock Island is romantic, laid back yet full of surprises. Beautiful soft sandy beaches, inviting warm turquoise water, mouthwatering dishes from across the globe, romantic beach accommodations, and a world of action and adventure await you in Havelock Island.

• Sheki (Azerbaijan) A hidden gem not known to many, Sheki is for history buffs, couples and outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush enchanting rolling hills on one side and guarded by snow topped mountains on the other, a visit to Sheki means discovering magnificent historic structures and monuments, browsing museums and art galleries, shopping in exotic markets, and to explore its beautiful outdoors.

CheapOair Guide to Ultimate Budget accommodations in Rome

2008-07-01T08:36:00.000-07:00

An enchanting city filled with the fragrances of it old world that blends perfectly with the hip modern world, Rome is a must see city for all. No doubt, Rome stands as one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world but vacationing in this magical place can leave a hole in your wallet if you don’t plan wisely.

Rome Undeniably is very expensive, especially when it comes to accommodations and finding a cheap accommodation is not an easy task. For Budget traveler, the best and the cheapest accommodations are the ‘Hostels’ which can be found across the city. Though hostels may not offer the best of services or facilities but if you are looking for that ultimate saving in accommodations, hostels are simply unbeatable. Hostels are not only affordable but they are also a great way to mingle with the locals and with other fellow travelers.

Some of the best Hostels in Rome include:
• Ciao Bella Hostel
• Blue Hostel
• Tiber Village Hostel
• Alessandro Palace Hostel
• Freestyle Hostel
• Roma Inn Hostel
• Chianti Hostel
• Alessandro Downtown Hostel
• Litus Roma Hostel

A stay in one of Rome hostels can range from around 10 Eur to a maximum of 20 Eur a night and though you won’t be showered with a world of luxury, but you will always find Rome’s hostels clean and comfortable.

Destinations That Won’t Break the Bank

2008-06-30T03:58:00.000-07:00

The weak dollar and soaring gas prices doesn’t mean that you have to compromise on taking a break this summer. For those who believe that getaway is not simply pitching a tent in the backyard, there are six amazing places in the US, where you can have a fantastic vacationing experience without spending ‘too much’.

Downtown Atlanta

Hip and vibrant, Atlanta is a perfect blend of the old and the new. Numerous luxury hotels are springing up in the city. The recently opened W Atlanta in Midtown is within walking distance of the High Museum of Art and Piedmont Park. In downtown Atlanta, the new Ellis and Twelve Centennial Park hotels and the rehabbed Glenn Hotel are just a few steps away from the prominent attractions.

What's the deal: The $89 MVP (Most Valuable Package) on sale through Sept. 21 buys admission to five popular attractions. For information call 800-285-2682; or check out atlanta.net

Harbor Country, Michigan

Just a short drive from Chicago's downtown Loop, this is an amazing place offering a mix of beaches, you-pick-'em farms (blueberry season starts in early July) and shopping for antiques and art.

What's the deal: Free Fourth of July events include fireworks and live music in New Buffalo. For information check out: harborcountry.org

North Texas Hill Country

Emerging as a new tourist destination here you will have plenty of opportunities for discovery, from visting Granbury's classic courthouse square; one of the best in Texas to scuba diving in cliff-lined Possum Kingdom Lake, you will have a great experience!

What's the deal: Stay two nights at gorgeous Wildcatter Ranch in Graham (888-462-9277; wildcatterranch.com) and they'll pay for your gas both ways from the Dallas-Fort Worth area. For more information call; Travel Texas, 800-888-8839; or check out traveltex.com

Laguna Beach, California

Nestled between Laguna Canyon and the Pacific about 50 miles south of downtown Los Angeles, its picture-perfect setting has long attracted artists - at last count, about 400 are in residence - along with almost 100 galleries.

What's the deal: Free trolleys with extended summer hours circulate downtown and in the canyon so you can leave the car behind. . For more information call; Laguna Beach Visitors & Conference Bureau; 800-877-1115; or check out lagunabeachinfo.org

Mount Rainier National Park

On a clear day, Mount Rainier is a giant mound of white looming over Seattle, and its national park, around 50 to 100 miles from the city is always worth another visit. There's a place 5,400 feet up the mountain called Paradise, and you'll know why when you see the wildflowers in July. The lush scenic beauty of the place will sweep you off your feet!

What's the deal: A newly extended free shuttle system whisks weekend visitors from Ashford, 6 miles outside the park's Nisqually entrance, to Longmire, where a second shuttle takes you to Paradise. For more information call; 877-270-7155; or check out visitrainier.com

Charlottesville, Virginia

Better known for its academic affiliation, Charlottesville boasts a cornucopia of good restaurants rarely found in a town of 40,000 year-round residents.

What's the deal: The $29 Presidents' Pass buys discounted tours to three popular historical attractions: Monticello, Ash Lawn-Highland (Monroe's home) and the 18th-century Michie Tavern. For more information call; 877-386-1103; or check out pursuecharlottesville.com

For more details read here

Skydive Lost Prairie Annual Jump- 2008

2008-06-24T06:12:00.000-07:00

Do you love adventure? If yes then Skydive Lost Prairie Annual Jump is a must for you. The largest, the biggest and the most popular of its kind in the North-western USA, Skydive Lost Prairie Annual Jump is an annual event organized by adventure enthusiasts for adventure enthusiasts.

In case if you haven’t heard about this event (which is impossible if you are a die hard follower of adventure sports), Skydive Lost Prairie Annual Jump is an annual event that happens every summer in Marion, Montana, attracting more than 500 skydivers to relish their thirst for action and adventure. A week long event where you can experience the thrill of skydiving, here in Skydive Lost Prairie Annual Jump, even if you are a first timer, you need not worry about a thing, just enjoy the thrill, the adventure and the of course the view as you will be offered with a practice session, plus accompanied by a professional instructor.

That’s not all, besides skydiving; the event also features air shows, live music, various exciting exhibits and sporting events.

When: Saturday, July 26, 2008 to Monday, August 04, 2008
Where: 3175 Lower Lost Prairie Road, Marion, MT
How to Reach: From Kalispell west on Highway 2 between milepost 88 and 87, turn onto Lost Prairie road and go four miles.

Top 10 Weird Attractions

2008-06-23T08:30:00.000-07:00

Forget about those usual destinations this summer, here's a list of some wierd places offering a never before vacationing experience:

1 The Great Whipped Cream Battle: Olomouc, Czech Republic

2 The Modern Toilet Restaurant: Taipei, Taiwan

3 Eeyore's Birthday: Austin, Texas

4 Sourtoe Cocktail: Dawson City, Alaska

5 Cabbages and Condoms Restaurant: Bangkok, Thailand

6 Shrove Tuesday Pancake Races: London, England

7 Shot Cafe, Riga: Latvia

8 Hakone Kowakien Yunessun Wine Spa: Hakone, Japan

9 Cafe Gratitude: San Francisco, California

10 Cockroach Races: Brisbane, Australia

Get more details here

European Music Festivals this Summer

2008-06-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

With so many music festivals crowding the European summer calendar, music lovers have yet another reason to travel. Serbia's Danube River, the Mediterranean coast in Spain and the rolling hills of Stradbelly, Ireland are just some of the places you'll find this summer's best soundtracks. Here are a few best picks, just for you:

Roskilde Festival
3-6 July 2008, Roskilde, Denmark

One of the largest and most musically diverse festivals in northern Europe, the four-day-long Roskilde will be sure to satiate your sonic craving. It's been on the groove since 1971. All profits go to humanitarian causes.

Headliners: The Chemical Brothers, Grinderman, Jay-Z, Radiohead

Exit Festival
10-13 July 2008, Novi Sad, Serbia

EXIT is the biggest music festival in South Eastern Europe. EXIT has taken place at a beautiful and magical fortress in Novi Sad, since 2001. EXIT prides itself on its political agenda - which includes campaigns around issues like drug trafficking and migration. Apart from quality music program that it offers, the festival is a place of wild fun, and you can enjoy the cool atmosphere of the fortress and the positive energy of the city.

Headliners: Sex Pistols, Gossip, Paul Weller, the Hives

Montreux Jazz Festival
4-19 July 2008, Lake Geneva, Switzerland

Founded in 1967 by Claude Nobs, the Montreux Jazz Festiva is being held on the banks of Lake Geneva since 1967. The Montreux Jazz Festival has become an unmissable event for music fans over the years. Festival alumni include jazz greats like Miles Davis and Ray Charles.

Headliners: Quincy Jones, Leonard Cohen, Etta James, N.E.R.D

Pukkelpop
14-16 August 2008, Hasselt-Kiewit, Belgium

Belgium's best outdoor festival, Pukkelpop has drawn over 135,000 people and a very-now line-up in previous years. The festival features as many as 150 acts.

Headliners: Metallica, The Killers, Flaming Lips, Serj Tankian

Electric Picnic
29-31 August 2008, County Laois, Ireland

Electric Picnic has established itself as a truly unique Irish festival, featuring the usual array of fine music, theater, comedy, holistic health and arts.

Headliners: Sex Pistols, My Bloody Valentine, Underworld, Grinderman

Bestival
5-7 September 2008, Isle of Wight, UK

Curated by renowned British radio DJ Rob da Bank, Bestival is one of the newest kids on the block, but has already earned its title. Its benefits include boutique camping, the colourful Bollywood cocktail bar, an inflatable church for Vegas-style weddings, the Restival chill-out area and the Breastival baby temple for new mothers.

Headliners: My Bloody Valentine, Amy Winehouse, Underworld, the Breeders

Check here for more details

Spring Travel Part III, Honeymooners and Couples Traveling to the Caribbean, Punta Cana or San Juan.

2007-02-21T11:20:00.000-08:00

Welcome back to the CheapoAir Spring Airline Travel Series!

Yesterday we covered Spring Senior Travel. If you missed it, check it out. We discussed the top destination for seniors this spring, and on a budget!

Today, we are discussing honeymooners and couples traveling to The Caribbean, Punta Cana or San Juan. Where should you go? How can you get the most for your money? Is there a preferred destination?

Each of these three destinations is very special and soooo romantic! Amidst tropical beach settings, warm, velvet blue ocean waters and gentle breezes, you will find spas, resorts and beautiful al fresco dining and cocktail options.

Traveling to the Caribbean, Punta Cana or San Juan during the spring is the off-season, which is always a perk. Why? Cheaper flights, hotels and car rentals. Plus, fewer tourists. Reservations at coveted restaurants are much easier to make and should you decide to go sightseeing, lines are much shorter. Isn't that fabulous!

No matter which destination you choose, you won't be disappointed. So, think about what you'd like to do and where you've never been. Visit our destination guides to find out more about each city. Also, check out our vacations and cruises. Consider a Caribbean Cruise or an all-inclusive Resort package. Even if you choose airfare and hotel, you can still book the perfect romantic or honeymoon vacation for two.
Stop by tomorrow for Spring Travel Part IV, Students Spring Break Wahoo!!! Caribbean, Mexico or Florida?

We would love to hear from you, so please drop us a line if you have any questions.

Spring Travel Part II, Senior Travel to Mexico City, Kingston or Las Vegas

2007-02-20T18:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome back to the CheapoAir Spring Airline Travel Series!

Yesterday we covered Spring Family Travel. If you missed it, check it out. We discussed the top destination for families this spring, and on a budget!

Today... Senior Travel to Mexico City, Kingston or Las Vegas. Where should you go? How can you get the most for your money? Is there a preferred destination?

Though this may come as quite a surprise, all three destinations are perfectly delightful choices. What it boils down to is what you're looking for in a vacation and who you're traveling with. Each of these wonderful destinations is absolutely within your budget!

Traveling to Mexico City or Kingston during the spring is the off-season. That means bigger savings and smaller lines into the most sought after attractions. If you're in need of the three R's (rest, relaxation and romance), Kingston will take your breath away. From all-inclusive resorts, to spa packages and a la carte travel (hotel, airfare and car rental parsed out) to suit all budgets. You can plan the perfect itinerary.

To find out more about Kingston, visit the Kingston Travel Guide. If you're traveling with a companion, but want something a little less beachy and a lot more city, visit Mexico City. This thriving metropolis nestled in the mountains offers a great sense of Mexican culture and history. This is a great destination for booking guided tours, too.

Tours are an affordable, all-inclusive half day or day trip that allows you to visit several sites for one price. For example, one company might be offering Cathedrals, Museums or Botanical Gardens. Instead of paying for each museum, you're only paying for the tour, a flat, one-time rate!

Las Vegas is a divine destination! It's also one of the top destinations year round. This is a perfect spot for friends. Believe it or not, booking cheap tickets is easy, especially on CheapoAir! Hotels are equally affordable and annual discounts abound. Las Vegas is for spending money on gambling. For me, it's slot machines.

Las Vegas also offers incredible live performances, concerts, dancers and incredible food. You can really have the time of your life in this city. Relax in a casino, sit by the pool and soak up some sun or walk around the strip and shop. Whatever you seek, you can probably find in Las Vegas.

Seniors traveling, the most important spring travel tip for you is choose your destination wisely. Think of who you're traveling with and the type of vacation you'd like this to be. Be sure to book at least 21 days in advance for maximum savings. However, there are exceptions to the rule and last minute travel on a budget is absolutely doable. Check out some of our airline ticket prices. Choose different date combinations to see what's out there and if it's within your budget.

So go out there and catch spring fever!

Don't forget to visit us tomorrow for, Spring Travel Part III, Honeymooners and Couples Traveling to the Caribbean, Punta Cana or San Juan.

Spring Travel Part I, Family Travel to Miami, Hawaii or Orlando

2007-02-19T18:44:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone! It's Monday, President's Day. We hope you wonderful readers had a terrific holiday weekend. We certainly did. We've been cooking up all sorts of neat, fun ideas for cheap family travel this spring to coveted destinations like Miami, Hawaii and Orlando.

To Find out more about Miami, Hawaii or Orlando, click on those links. Learn all about these frequently traveled destinations and why they're so popular for families!

CheapoAir, we are a family of 5, two adults and three kids, ages, 5, 7 and 10. We're also on a shoestring budget, but boy are we in need of a vacation! We want to go somewhere summery and kid friendly this spring. What do you suggest?

Orlando! Orlando! Orlando. Did we say Orlando? We meant, Orlando! Spring is the perfect time to visit. Winter and Summer are the most popular times of the year, so you're traveling off-season. And, you know what off-season travel means, cheap tickets and cheap hotels. Also, fewer visitors, which means attractions are not as packed, so the lines are shorter. You can also book an all-inclusive vacation package. The trick to cheap travel is to book in advance, plan your itinerary well, and you can save up to 65% on airline tickets! WOWZA.

The kids will have a ball, Disney World, Epcot Center, Disney Water Parks, The Animal Kingdom and that's just the beginning. You'll also find the coolest, most exciting tours ever. Go behind the scenes of Walt Disney World and see how the greatest show on earth is created. Take the Family Magic Tour or the Backstage Magic Tour. Whatever tour you take, you will not be disappointed. Orlando is perfect for kids of all ages, including you adults ;).

Don't forget to drop by tomorrow when we continue our Spring Travel Series with, Senior Travel to Mexico City, Kingston or Las Vegas.

If you have any questions, drop us a line. We'd love to hear from you!

Thanks for stopping by!

Spring Airline Travel Series!

2007-02-19T10:41:00.000-08:00

Spring is in the air and you know what that means, spring travel! what a delicious time to smell the roses... literally.

This week, CheapoAir brings you a spring travel series. Each day, we will post about various spring destinations for all types of travelers and how to book the all important affordable airline tickets so that you can make the most of your spring.

Here's the schedule, be sure to bookmark it.

Monday, February 19th: Family Travel to Miami, Orlando or Hawaii

Tuesday, February 20th: Senior Travel to Mexico City, Kingston or Las Vegas

Wednesday, February 21st: Honeymooners and Couples Traveling to the Caribbean, Punta Cana or San Juan.

Thursday, February 22nd: Students Spring Break Wahoo!!! Caribbean, Mexico or Florida?

Friday, February 23rd: Thrill Seekers, Road Warriors and Friends Region Hopping.

Valentine's Cheap Ticket Sale

2007-02-12T12:06:00.000-08:00

It's Valentines! Eeek. What are you doing? What are your plans? Is it a biggie? Are you proposing? First Anniversary, 10th, 25th?

Don't PANIC!

CheapoAir is having a fantabulous Valentines cheap ticket sale on domestic and international flights to Paris, Honolulu, Rome, Miami and other top destinations.

Click now and book super romantic last minute travel for Valey's day.

fun travel trivia

2007-02-11T05:09:00.000-08:00

Did you know that many cities all over the world have nicknames? I found some pretty cool ones:

Boston, MA = Beantown
New York City = The Big Apple
Griggsville, IL = Purple Martin Capital of the Nation City of Philadelphia, PA = City of Brotherly Love
Paris, France = City of Lights
Rome, Italy = City of the Seven Hills
Manila, Philippines = Pearl of the Orient

Senior Travelers, Let's Go! Part II

2007-02-11T05:08:00.000-08:00

Welcome back to Senior Travelers, Let's Go!

In Part I, we discussed senior travel discounts vs. senior travel gimmie a breaks, affinity groups, frequent flier programs and pre-paid travel vouchers.

In Part II, we will continue exploring gimmicks vs. real discounts, as well as travel ideas for senior couples, seniors traveling with friends and seniors traveling with grandchildren.

Sit back, grab a cup of tea and let's dish travel!

Is this Really a Senior Travel Discount? Because it feels an awful lot like a Gimmick to me?!

We've all seen the phrases, Senior Travel Discount, Discounts for Seniors, Senior Savings and many other similar phrases. The hook is BIG MONEY saved. The question you should ask yourself: is this really going to save me money or cost me money?

In the case of airfare, I'm sure you've seen, off-peak travel discounts. Sometimes those are re-written as Senior Travel Discounts. That's ok! It's the same thing, but designed to attract a different audience. You! The senior traveler. The benefit here is that even when you see off-peak travel discounts, it's a deal you should definitely consider and look into because it will likely save you money and at the end of the day, that is our goal as budget senior travelers.

Off-Peak and Off-Season Travel is always going to save you money. Let's say you want to go to Florida. If you go just before winter or just after winter, you will likely save a few hundred dollars. Log onto our website, CheapoAir and check airfares in February versus airfares in late March to Florida. Can you believe the savings?! We're talking anywhere from $50-$200! That's a lot of money, more money to spend enjoying your trip.

Off-Peak Travel Ideas:

Fall Destination, visit in late summer or early winter
Winter Destination, visit in late fall or early spring
Spring Destination, visit in late winter or early summer
Summer Destination, visit in late spring or early fall

Believe it or not, there are some additional benefits to off-peak travel. Less tourists means fewer lines. Dinner reservations anytime you like. Front row seats to every attraction and event.

CheapoAir, are there any other off-peak travel times I should know about?

We're so glad you asked because the answer is a resounding YES! Off-peak travel also includes days preceding and succeeding a national holiday. If you travel a few days before and after a national holiday, you can save money on airfare, too.

Another off-peak travel tip is to choose flights that leave very early in the morning or at sunset. Mid-day flights, especially during business travel times (Monday through Friday) are much cheaper.

I've noticed discounts offered to seniors at my local grocery store and community center. Are these legitimate?

Often times communities do like to give back to their residents. This is a great thing! You might find that your grocery store is offering reduced domestic fares. Check it out. You can always cross-reference the flight times and dates with the airline or a travel site like ours, CheapoAir.com.

Other local discounts for seniors within your community can include cheap parking spaces, movie, theatre and opera discount matinee tickets, cheaper annual passes to the local museum, gallery or botanical garden. Visit your local community center to find out what's out there and available to you. Usually a list of preferred vendors is available.

I have my grandchildren for 7-days and a few extra bucks. Where should I take them?

Grandchildren want to spend every waking minute with their grandparents. What better way to do that than on vacation. There are all sorts of neat theme vacations you can take. Check out our Vacations. We offer adventure tours, all-inclusive family resorts, Funjet vacations, Universal Parks & Universal Tours vacations and so much more! Book airfare and a cheap hotel to a historic domestic destination like Washington, Boston or the Grand Canyon! If you want to go abroad, what about Europe? What an exciting history lesson that will be.

With the right planning, traveling with grandchildren is a piece of cake.

Take a few best friends on a whirlwind tour of Las Vegas. Enjoy fine food, casinos (I'm a slot machine fan myself) and lively entertainment. Adventure isn't always climbing Mount Everest or going on a safari in Africa. Those destinations offer all kinds of choice activities for all lifestyles.

Celebrate your 60th anniversary at a scenic destination with lots of natural beauty and outdoorsy activities. Cruise Hawaii, the Caribbean or Mexico. Book a US Golf trip to all of the top golf courses. Visit world class zoos, botanical gardens or destinations renowned for bird watching and hiking. Treat yourself to a 4-day spa vacation.

Shoe-String Budget Travel for Seniors is absolutely possible. Remember to keep an eye out for Senior Discounts, Off-Peak Travel and Affinity Programs.

Senior Travelers, Let's Go!

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the senior years can be some of the best years in a person's life. Taking those dream vacations, new adventures, creating memories with grandchildren and spending quality time with good friends. Well, it's just simply the spice of life!

Leisure travelers, adventure travelers and novice travelers alike, when you're ready to take flight, nothing should stand in your way. Whether you're living on a fixed income or high on the hog, budgeting, planning and saving money is an important piece of the senior traveler's pie.

CheapoAir has put together a mini senior travel guide based on emails we receive from our customers. This Q&A is designed to help you differentiate between travel bargains and travel gimmie a break's!

One question we get asked frequently, is there a difference between Senior Travel Deals and Senior Travel Discounts?

There are plenty of senior traveler deals and discounts out there. The trick is knowing how to find value in those deals and discounts. It's also knowing where to look and who to ask.

For example, if you belong to an Affinity Group, like, Senior's Coalition, AAA, AARP, a Veteran's Organization or an Alumni Group, chances are travel discounts abound! When you go to your mailbox, it's probably filled with what appears to be junk mail; even though it's from one of your affinity groups. Next time, open it up instead of throwing it away. Often times, these mailers are filled with travel coupons and more! You'll find things like, airline deals, hotel and rent-a-car upgrades, 2-for-1 meal tickets, golf passes, half price coupons for museums, monuments and botanical gardens.

You can also call your local affinity group and ask to receive annual travel discounts via email, post or by joining their website. P

One of the great misconceptions People have is that if they book through an affinity group, they have to travel in a group in order to benefit from top notch travel discounts. Guess what? That is a myth! You can travel with anyone you wish and still take advantage of great deals.

So, if you’re not a part of any affinity group, it might be time to think about joining one.

Another question we get is, what is a Pre-Paid Voucher?

Pre-Paid Vouchers aren't as scary as they sound. It's simply a coupon book that you've already paid for. Let's say you are planning a whirlwind tour, the grandchildren in Ohio, some friends in Indiana and rounding off this perfect vacation, a romantic 4-day weekend in Mexico. Pre-Paid vouchers are basically one-way airline tickets sold at a discounted rate. Several top notch airlines offer them, so if this is the kind of trip you're planning, definitely ask.

For the very best deals, book at least 21 days in advance because cheap tickets sell out fast!

CheapoAir, what's the Deal with Membership Clubs & Frequent Fliers? Can I really Save Money by joining?

You know... You actually can. Big money! Here's what you want to look for when considering a membership club or frequent flier program:

What is the annual fee? Whether it's paid monthly or annually is irrelevant, it's the final cost you are most concerned with.
What type of discounts and coupons are offered? The first question you ask yourself is if these coupons and discounts fit in with your lifestyle. Here's an example, if you are a frequent flyer and this particular membership gives you points that qualify you for free upgrades or free tickets every time you spend and the membership fee is $40 per year, it's probably a sound investment.

There are other programs too, for example, members over 55 might be eligible for an even lower annual fee, you just have to ask for it. Each program offers different discounts, coupons and bonuses. The trick is finding a program that works for you. Some membership programs offer travel credits up to $400 every year, plus bonus miles, hotel and rent-a-car discounts. Not bad, huh? Don't be shy! Ask as many questions as you need to, to qualify membership for you and your family.

Come back tomorrow for Part Two of Senior Travelers, Let's Go! We'll be covering topics like, Is this a Gimmick or a Deal. Local Community Discounts and Where to take your grandchildren on holiday!

If you have any questions, leave us a comment! We'd love to hear from you.

CheapoAir Review, Cheap Plane Tickets

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I happened upon a cool website today, Silflay Hraka and found a terrific CheapoAir review about our cheap plane tickets! Thank you, Silflay!

Here are some excerpts from Silflay's post:

That being said, my latest website for the best ticket prices is CheapoAir.com. The site promises to save 65% off published fares. I'm not good at math and I'm sure exactly what the published fares might be since there are so many out there, but the site did save me about $50 bucks over Yahoo Travel, the next best rate I could find. Yahoo in turn saved me about $50 bucks over Expedia, which saved me $15 to $20 bucks over several other sites like Orbitz.

Continue Reading Review...

Check out Silfay's Blog.

Antigua Cheap Airfares. Really? YES!

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Antigua is a beautiful island with over 300 beaches to relax and unwind in the sun. This quaint destination is nestled in the heart of the Caribbean. If you're a scuba diver, swimmer, jet skier or beachcomber, this is the island for you! The ocean is crystal clear and the reefs attract plenty of marine life. Tourists can rent dinghy's, catamarans or cruisers to explore Antigua's magnificent ocean. There are plenty of coves and natural harbors, too.

If you're a Cricket fan, you must visit Antigua's Recreation Ground in St. John’s, home to many famous Cricket players and teams. Antigua has quite a festive nightlife. From romantic sunsets at the English Harbor to lavish parties at Shirley Heights. And, the food, wow. Dine al fresco on the many worldly cuisines found in Antigua, like, Caribbean, Italian, Mexican, American, British, and Jamaican. Enjoy fine home brewed beers and fruity rum cocktail drinks made with the freshest guava, morby and passion fruit, delivered fresh daily.

It all sounds too good to be true. Far too expensive. Impossible to afford! No way can you save for such a lavish vacation, right? Wrong. With the right planning, your dream vacation to Antigua is absolutely doable. You can book an all-inclusive vacation or cheap airfares and a budget hotel. Check out our Caribbean Travel Tips to help you begin planning your vacation.

Airline Tickets

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Airline Tickets can be so expensive. So, how can you book airline tickets within a budget and still have a fabulous vacation?

CheapoAir.com has some wonderful "how to" tips and tricks for booking airline tickets to fit all budgets.

First and foremost, with so many travelers scouring the web for airline tickets, you might wonder how we are able to offer the cheapest ticket. That's easy. We have over 18 million negotiated and consolidated airfares. So, wherever and whenever you want to fly, choose CheapoAir.com and become a jet setter without breaking the bank.

Which Airline Ticket Should you Book?
When you shopping for airline tickets, you will find hundreds of websites assuring you their price is the cheapest. But, should you really just take their word for it? Especially after everything we've read about comparison shopping. Whether booking on airline website or CheapoAir.com, you have a six-minute booking window, which means that fare is subject to change, so do your due diligence beforehand.

Compare Arrival and Destination Airports
Believe it or not the airport you arrive to and depart from can really factor into the price of your airline ticket. Check out the smaller airports. Those fares can be much cheaper. We have an easy to use, airport code tool that allows you to plug in the city and find the airport code. It's one click!

If you're willing to choose an airport that's a half-hour or an hour outside of your arrival or departure airport, you could save a few hundred dollars. A taxi, shuttle or rental car could still be far less expensive. Here’s an example, say you’re traveling to Los Angeles. The main airport is LAX, but if you choose Burbank instead, you could save up to 50% on airline tickets.

Book Airline Tickets 21 Days in Advance
For most budget travelers, vacations have to be planned. It’s an annual or 2-3 year luxury. If you’re traveling with family and want to see all the sights and attractions, travel costs can skyrocket. So, try to plan and book at least 21 days in advance to maximize your savings.

Is Off-Season Travel Really Going to Save me Money?
Is it ever! of-season and off-peak travel is always cheaper than peak travel times. This means visiting a winter destination in early spring or a summer resort in early fall can save you up to 65% on your flight. Can you imagine?!

When planning your trip try to avoid traveling on days that precede or succeed a major holiday, and on Fridays and Sundays. These are the busiest days for travel and finding affordable airline tickets is an impossible feat. Also, consider an early morning flight or a red-eye.

The Devil's in the Details
Often times airline tickets are non-refundable and non-negotiable. In short, once that ticket is purchased, you can't get a refund. Be sure to read the fine print and that the travel dates you've chosen are correct.