Tours - Important Steps to Consider for the Smart Traveler

By Catherine Nichols

Going on tours in Egypt and Spain can be exciting events of a lifetime. These nations exhibit many breathtaking views and amazing local culture. Here are some steps to get you started if you are heading out to these places for an adventure.

Choose a season wisely

Packed tours in Spain and in Egypt happen during different seasons. In Spain, this will depend on the location and schedule of festivals. In Pamplona, for instance, the streets can get crowded fast during the famous Running of the Bulls. Many people will be on the roads waiting for the bulls in the hopes of running ahead of these unrestrained animals. In Egypt, the Mawlid is a celebration of Sufi saints' birthdays drawing thousands of people to gather.

If crowds mesmerize you, then visiting a location during an important event is for you. Such a time can expose you to the rituals and customs that go along with the festivities. If crowds make you feel uncomfortable, however, decide on a time and location that will have fewer travelers.. You can enjoy moderately packed to virtually unpacked streets by planning your trip carefully.

Dress according to customs or climate

Taking a tour in Egypt can be a lesson on dressing up. Egypt is a country that has a large Muslim population so it is best to dress according to what is acceptable.

If you are a woman, do not look forward to wearing your miniskirts or plunging neckline tops out in public. Such clothing can draw unwanted attention and offend the locals. If you are a man, skip the shorts and stick to loosely fitting pants. Wearing shorts can be comfortable on your end but people might not allow you to enter mosques and other places.

Dressing up as you wish will not be a problem in Spain as it has a more open culture, where you're going, however, will factor big. It has three primary climactic zones including Mediterranean, semiarid and oceanic climates all located in the different parts of the country. This vast country also has climactic subtypes you may have to consider when going to remote locations.

Remember to ask your travel agency about the local weather before you take a tour in Spain, so you can prepare the proper clothes and stay as comfortable as possible.

Care for your health

A visit to these countries can be a worthwhile food experience but you should ask about the ingredients they use if you have allergies to certain food types such as peanuts or seafood. It is also smart to keep some medication with you at all times.

Make sure to bring sufficient water as you go around different places. Walking and hiking will cause you to sweat a lot. Water on hand can easily make you feel refreshed and avoid possible health problems caused by dehydration.

Bringing light snacks is a good idea, too. Some tours can go on longer than expected so having a treat to munch on can satisfy quick cravings. Carry them in your bag or pocket to fight off hunger pangs and stay attentive throughout your tour.

Of course, no preparation will be any good if you do not sign up with a reliable travel company offering tours in Egypt and Spain. Make sure you verify their business information and reputation as you check their travel packages.You are spending your hard-earned money so better make sure you will have hassle-free and great experience.

Catherine Nichols is a travel writer who reviews packages for tours in Spain. The author recently reviewed available tours in Egypt in their latest company travel guide too.

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

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No Travel Excuses - Be Healthy

Everyone knows it is important to "be healthy" and most people try to do so consistently. However, especially for those who travel, almost everyone can think of a few excuses as to why they did not exercise their bodies, eat smart, enrich their minds, and obtain quality sleep. Here are some easy ways to counter the most common excuses:

EXERCISE YOUR BODY
If you are thinking, I can't do my regular exercises away from my gym...
Take advantage of the hotel gym. Some hotels have relationships with local fitness centers as well, so if their facilities are not up to the standards you expect, ask about an exchange opportunity.

If you are thinking, I didn't travel all this way to stay inside...
Explore the city and get your heart rate up by running or walking along a safe, well lit path (some cities even have pre-set "walking tour" routes you can follow - use your GPS or ask the hotel concierge for a map).

If you are thinking, I don't have time to work out...
Utilize the time you do have by adding extra exercise into what you have to do anyway. Take the stairs instead of the escalator or elevator, carry your materials and luggage yourself, and park further away from your destination.

EAT SMART
If you are thinking, I don't know where to start - this menu is huge!
Look through the menu and find an entrée in one of the "Heart Smart" or "Reduced Calorie" sections (these items are designed to be both healthy and tasty). Even at most quick service restaurants, you can choose from salads, fruit, and other healthy options for your convenience on the go.

If you are thinking, the food I like is not healthy...
Ask your server to tailor your menu choice to better suit your needs by substituting healthy items for any included items that are less healthy. For example, request vegetables instead of onion rings, ask for your salad dressing on the side, and select grilled chicken instead of chicken that has been breaded and fried. Most chefs will be happy to accommodate your requests and these small changes at each meal can make a huge difference over the course of your trip.

If you are thinking, but I was invited to attend a special meal...
Make the most of the options available to you if possible. However, to account for any meals where the "healthy" options still are not great for you, plan to allow yourself one meal where you can splurge. Just hold yourself to a condition: limit all of your remaining food and drink to healthy items only - no excuses.

ENRICH YOUR MIND
If you are thinking, I am always in my car...
Listen to a book on tape (or CD) while you are driving across town. If your trip is not long enough for a whole book, select a series of short motivational recordings instead.

If you are thinking, sometimes it's not my fault that I miss the time I set aside to read...
Keep a book in your carry on, purchase a handheld e-reading device, or download an application for your phone so you can read relevant content while you are waiting for a delayed flight or in between appointments. Also, keep a notebook handy so you can record your thoughts and ideas as they come to you.

If you are thinking, by the time my day is finished, I'm too tired to learn...
Take advantage of a quiet moment to just think. Visualize what your life will be like after you have accomplished your current goals. Consider any challenges you are facing and meditate on possible solutions.

OBTAIN QUALITY SLEEP
If you are thinking, it's too loud to fall asleep quickly and too bright to stay asleep...
When you confirm your hotel reservation, ask for a room that is on a high floor and away from noise (including elevators, traffic, and ice machines). Bring a sleep mask and pair of ear plugs, just in case.

If you are thinking, I was going to go to bed early, but I had to take care of a last minute issue...
Make sure that everything you need to accomplish for your trip is done before you leave. This way, you will have more time to handle the unexpected on-site without losing sleep. Do not forget to set voicemail and e-mail notifications, assign a contact person for any ongoing projects, and create a Plan B, C, and D for any issues that could arise.

If you are thinking, I don't know why I'm so tired - I slept well last night...
Research suggests that your body is most affected by the sleep you get (or do not get) two nights before a big event. Be sure that you are well rested not only the night before your next event but also the night before the night before the big day to ensure you are on top of your game.

Robyn Davis is an accomplished event hostess and experienced marketing consultant... she is here when you need help! Robyn has more than ten years of leadership experience and a well rounded background. Learn more about Robyn Davis and When I Need Help by visiting her website (http://www.whenineedhelp.com) today.

(c) Copyright - Robyn Davis. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robyn_Davis

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5021580

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Eat Healthier 'On the Go' - 3 Simple Tips to Eat Smart While Traveling

You've made a commitment to improve your diet by eating healthier foods. You find recipes and shop for ingredients, buying lots of fresh veggies, fruit and healthy snacks. At home and at work it's pretty easy to follow your new nutritional program -- you've resolved to stay on track! You get in the habit of preparing extra food for dinner so you have leftovers for lunch the next day and cut up your carrot and celery sticks to snack on the night before. 

All is going well, you're feeling better and shedding a few unwanted pounds when suddenly you are faced with an unexpected trip -- it could be for business or pleasure. You begin to wonder "How am I going stay on my program? I'm doing so well and now this!" Depending on the length of the trip, you begin to worry about temptations and the availability of the foods you've actually begun to enjoy. The following 3 Simple Tips will help you to be prepared to 'eat healthy on the go'.

1) Plan ahead because you just might sabotage your success without careful planning. Begin by planning how you are going to carry a variety of convenient 'to go' foods and snacks to choose from. Depending on your flight time and length of stay, you may want to plan for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Choose foods that travel well and be sure you have the means to keep them cool if necessary. Be sure your food choices are temperature appropriate and will not spoil or go rancid if not refrigerated. *See list below for ideas.

2) Know airline carry on restrictions to be sure your food and drink will not be confiscated because of improper packaging. You can check the requirements at http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm
Air tight leak proof containers are a must to avoid messy accidents.

3) Have a back up plan in case you run out of food or have flight delays. Carry cash or a credit card to purchase additional food and a list of acceptable foods if you have specific dietary needs or allergies. This is especially important if you have medications. Always carry extra meds than needed in case of emergency.

Since peanuts and pretzels just aren't enough, a few of my favorite healthy travel foods are:

*Single serving packets of protein shake-add contents of packet to ice water and stir or shake for a nutritious meal replacement (I carry a 12 ounce screw top shaker bottle to avoid spills and extra packets of shake for emergencies)

*Hard boiled eggs (peeled and ready to eat)

*Apples (you can pre-slice and dip in lemon juice to prevent discoloring)

*Cut up carrot and celery sticks*High protein health bars (always a healthier choice than candy bars)

*Trail mix (organic if possible with no added sulfites)

*Dry-roasted almonds or peanuts

*High quality dark chocolate for unexpected chocolate cravings

Travel healthy, travel smart!

©2008 Sheryl Allen This article may be reprinted in its entirety as long as the authors resource box is included.

Sheryl Allen has been gathering innovative, healthier life choices for 30+ years and putting them into practice. Sheryl is the designer of Thrival Kits® 'Your Ultimate Fresh Food Travel Companion'. The stylish, versatile Classic Black kit is the perfect solution for savvy, health conscious travelers to conveniently carry fresh, delicious food as well as personal, business and travel items while 'on the go'.http://www.thrivalkits.com

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sheryl_Allen

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Three Tips for Traveling Healthy

West Africa allows for an amazing range of experiences for any traveler. Beautiful scenery and wildlife, amazing cultural heritage, great food and some of the most interesting and genuinely kind people you will ever meet await you in countries such as Ghana, Mali, Cote D'Ivoire and all the other countries of West Africa. You will leave with amazing stories, wonderful new friends and a wonderful new perspective on the world in which you live. West Africa does present you with quite a few travel health obstacles to overcome, but with a little bit of thought and a few important tips you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.

1. Malaria is one of the biggest dangers you will face during your travels. Mosquitoes carry this deadly disease and are very prevalent in all locations. There are many different prophylactics that can be taken to help stave off this disease. There are prescriptions that require you to take a pill every day, while there are also pills that are simply taken once a week. There is a history of minor side effects with each pill and you should consult your doctor before heading out on which medication is best for you and your particular trip.

2. Travelers diarrhea is also a big health issue you need to be aware of during your stay. The rumors are true, you should definitely not be drinking the water while you are traveling. Bottled water is usually very easy to find, is safe and is usually still much cheaper than buying water in our local stores. While in many places, such as Ghana, you will find "bag water" which is literally sealed plastic bags containing "pure water" as the sellers will tell you. These bags are tempting because of their low cost, but are often carriers of bacteria and parasites that will lead to an unpleasant bathroom experience. It may be tempting to drink the cheaper water or be more "native/local" while you are there, but it is best to fight this urge. If you want to get the most out of your time you want to stay out of the bathroom and on the road. The dehydration and general malaise that occur with travelers diarrhea can really ruin your trip.

3. The most important thing about staying healthy while you travel is to stay smart. If you think something doesn't look good to eat or drink, don't! It's that simple. Always peel your fruits and vegetables and make sure that any street food you eat appears to be well cooked and warm. Don't take unnecessary risks with your health because there's nothing worse than wasting your vacation time in a bed or a bathroom feeling miserable. Stay safe, stay smart, stay healthy and have fun!

To read more about travel health in West Africa visit travelhealthtips.tumblr.com.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Samuel_Gruber

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5820158

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Travel Health Overview - Altitude Sickness

Most of us plan very well for our trips away from home, and for overseas trips in particular. However, there is one condition that almost always takes people by surprise - altitude sickness. This is very much a disease of modern times - in the past, it wasn't possible for us to ascend a mountain quickly enough that we would not be used to the lowered oxygen levels of high altitudes. Now planes and cars have made this a very real worry - but unfortunately it isn't possible to tell who will be worst affected by it! We look at the recommended level of travel insurance cover for places prone to causing altitude sickness, and how you can identify and recover from it.

What is Altitude Sickness?

There are several things that act to stress your body when you're at a high altitude:

Lowered oxygen levels (at 10,000 feet above sea level, there is 70% as much oxygen in the air as there is at sea level)

Cold

Low humidity, causing dehydration

Increased UV radiation

The symptoms are like that of a hangover - nausea, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite and sometimes vomiting. In extreme cases, pulmonary edema or cerebral edema (swelling of the blood vessels or brain cavities) can occur and may cause death.

A Traveller's Perspective - What Does it Feel Like?

Most people say that altitude sickness feels worse than a hangover! You might be unable to get out of bed and feel headachey and flu-ey for a couple of days. You will probably have very little energy, because either you don't feel like eating, or you are vomiting up your food. People say they feel 'horrible' and 'like I was going to die'... though the symptoms usually pass without incident if you stay at one level to acclimatize.

The Logistics of Acclimatizing

Acclimatizing to high altitude is not a simple matter of a few hours rest. It can take from 2 to 5 days to acclimatize to the lower oxygen atmosphere above 10,000 feet. It is never wise to push through and just wait until you acclimatize at a higher altitude, because of the risk of developing a pulmonary or cerebral edema.

Holiday insurance is the best way to guard against the unfortunate circumstance of being forced to wait at a particular spot to acclimatize to a low oxygen environment. It can cover both your accommodation and other logistics costs, and also medical bills if you need to check in with a doctor.

Travelling with Altitude Sickness Prescription Medication

If you know that you are prone to altitude sickness, or would rather use preventive medication rather than curative (only under doctor's orders, though!), there are still issues to be aware of with carrying the medication. Medicines which are legal in some countries may not be approved in others - it is always smart to get a letter of authority to carry your specific medicine, through the embassy or visa office of the country you are visiting.

How Travel Insurance Helps

People often assume that altitude sickness is something that will pass by itself, without you making any changes to your plans because of it. After all, many of us have gone to work with a hangover... what could the difference be? Unfortunately, altitude sickness is often much more severe than a hangover. If you or your children get a severe case, you may be liable for big medical bills, or heavy cancellation fees and new accommodation charges if you have to stay and acclimatize somewhere.

Get both medical travel insurance and logistical travel insurance cover to avoid altitude sickness completely ruining your trip!

Save money on your travel insurance today. For a free quote, visit Travel Insurance.

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Josh_I_Harrison

Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4284149

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