From Twitter today I learned of a very useful website about travel finances when abroad, credit card fees and more.. The 'credit card foreign transactions fee comparison" chart is especially a winner. I have a personal writeup that I provide my clients about use of ATM's and credit cards abroad, whether to exchange Euros in advance, etc., and this link will be a great addition.
There are also helpful links of all sorts on the site.
The general website is www.travelfinances.com and the chart mentioned is at http://bit.ly/37PXS0
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Vermont for the Leaves
My Texan son and his Yankee Bride were married in Connecticut on October 14, 1995...perfect for 'the leaves.' And I was lucky the week after to spend time at my co-in-laws ski house in Vermont. I fell in love with Vermont then, and have managed to go back twice. My most recent trip was October 3-9, 2009, and the 'color' timing was perfect. We spent three days in the Ludlow area, then headed way north to Montgomery, which is only 10 miles from the Canadian border. Driving Hazen's Notch Road/VT 58 was a special treat in a series of joyfully beautiful days. I also don't think it's possible to get a bad meal in Vermont, anywhere!
I'm sharing photos of some of the scenery with you. You do NOT have to sign in to view them. Simply click on "view photos," then on "play slideshow.' Enjoy the splendor!
http://tiny.cc/VermontLeaves
I'm sharing photos of some of the scenery with you. You do NOT have to sign in to view them. Simply click on "view photos," then on "play slideshow.' Enjoy the splendor!
http://tiny.cc/VermontLeaves
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Very cool map for New England Fall Foliage!
My son found this map online and sent it to me, since I'm 'going to see the leaves' in Vermont soon.
www.yankeefoliage.com/foliagemap
www.yankeefoliage.com/foliagemap
Monday, September 14, 2009
Top 10 World Cities for Pickpockets
This helpful reminder list comes from www.traveldailynews.com, an industry publication that I read regularly.
European cities run off with majority of top 10 and Spain snags two spots
TripAdvisor points out top 10 places worldwide to beware pickpockets
Monday, September 14, 2009
TripAdvisor, the world's most popular and largest travel community, announced ten cities to beware pickpockets, according to TripAdvisor travelers and editors, and five tips to avoid getting pickpocketed. Visitors would do well to watch their bags particularly in major European cities, where many popular outdoor attractions are tourist havens – and prime targets for purse-snatchers.
1. Fear and Loathing in Las Ramblas: Barcelona, Spain
One reviewer actually compares Barcelona pickpocketing to a generally practiced and accepted sport, like soccer. For those who'd rather stay off the field, take caution: Las Ramblas, the famous wide, pedestrian walkway full of life, music, and people at all hours of the day and night, is the perfect place to get your purse poached.
2. Rome Rascals: Rome, Italy
With its ancient buildings and astounding historical and cultural attractions, Rome is full of both tourists and incredible things to sightsee. With thousands of people admiring the Trevi Fountain or the Pantheon, it's easy for a pickpocket to lift a camera or purse with a quick snip of scissors or some clever handiwork with a zipper. Travelers beware: 5 of Rome's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
3. Cash or Czech: Prague, Czech Republic
The famously beautiful Charles Bridge is lined with 30 baroque-style statues, as well as thousands of tourists who crowd its ancient stones each year, making a perfect recipe for pickpocketing. Before taking in the view of the Vltava River and the Prague Castle beyond, be sure valuables are strapped down. Travelers beware: 6 of Prague's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
4. Madrid Mischief: Madrid, Spain
El Rastro fleamarket and the crowded metro are often cited as spots where unfriendly pickpocket schemes can put a damper on a visit to this beautiful city. However, travelers should also beware that in museums (Madrid has many) pickpockets can be crafty as well, preying on distracted tourists.
5. Poaching in Paris: Paris, France
The City of Light draws enormous crowds from the base of the Eiffel Tower to the steps of Sacre-Coeur and everywhere in between. But enormous crowds can also be found below ground, in the city's metro system, where travelers should be especially cautious.
6. Italian Job: Florence, Italy
It is certainly easy to see why tourists would be distracted by the majestic beauty of Michelangelo's David and the other incredible and awe-inspiring works of art and pieces of history all around Florence. When admiring Michelangelo's creation, or at its replica in busy Piazza della Signoria, be alert that others may have their attention on your wallet.
7. Don't Cry for Me: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a vibrant and culturally rich city with much to offer, from the famed Teatro Colon to the city's many distinct neighborhoods. However, if while sightseeing you find you are suddenly covered in "bird droppings" (likely mustard) and a "friendly" local (likely a thief) happens to be standing by with napkins to help you clean up, beware. Travelers beware: 5 of Buenos Aires's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
8. No Dutch Treat: Amsterdam, Netherlands
It's easy to get carried away in Amsterdam with so many fun things to see and do, but don't be too taken in by the canals and the friendly, laid-back atmosphere – pickpocketers have been known to take advantage of countless tourists in this enchanting city.
9. Greek Tragedy: Athens, Greece
This legendary city features countless ancient monuments, many of which are outdoors. Whether visiting the Parthenon on the Acropolis, or anything else in this magnificent historic city, keep the bags close to the vest while your eyes admire the rest. Travelers beware: 5 of Athens's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
10. Hands On in Hanoi: Hanoi, Vietnam
The capital of Vietnam has its charming Old Quarter, littered with monuments and colonial architecture, and the city also features 600 temples and pagodas, making it a beautiful and unique place to visit, but also a place to stay alert for mischief. Travelers beware: 5 of Hanoi's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
TripAdvisor's Top 5 tips to avoid being pickpocketed
1. Never keep your wallet or valuables in your rear pocket, even if it buttons – it's by far the easiest target.
2. Beware of the distraction tactic. Dropping something near you, squirting something on you, or simply jostling you. Be on guard when in crowds, and secure your belongings.
3. Pickpockets often work in pairs or groups and it's not just the usual suspects. Be cautious with any strangers—sometimes people who don't look like they'd be a threat, such as children or the elderly, can be part of larger operations.
4. Stay alert in confined spaces and near passageways. Try to avoid standing near the doorways of trains as groups of pickpockets can rush at you when the doors open.
5. Before you set off on a trip, pare down the contents of your purse or wallet as the smaller the bulge, the less likely pickpockets are to covet it.
"Not always a basic 'lift-and-run' operation, expert pickpocketing can sometimes involve more complicated scams," said Christine Petersen, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. "Travelers need to be aware of all kinds of tricks meant to distract them from their belongings while enjoying popular world attractions."
European cities run off with majority of top 10 and Spain snags two spots
TripAdvisor points out top 10 places worldwide to beware pickpockets
Monday, September 14, 2009
TripAdvisor, the world's most popular and largest travel community, announced ten cities to beware pickpockets, according to TripAdvisor travelers and editors, and five tips to avoid getting pickpocketed. Visitors would do well to watch their bags particularly in major European cities, where many popular outdoor attractions are tourist havens – and prime targets for purse-snatchers.
1. Fear and Loathing in Las Ramblas: Barcelona, Spain
One reviewer actually compares Barcelona pickpocketing to a generally practiced and accepted sport, like soccer. For those who'd rather stay off the field, take caution: Las Ramblas, the famous wide, pedestrian walkway full of life, music, and people at all hours of the day and night, is the perfect place to get your purse poached.
2. Rome Rascals: Rome, Italy
With its ancient buildings and astounding historical and cultural attractions, Rome is full of both tourists and incredible things to sightsee. With thousands of people admiring the Trevi Fountain or the Pantheon, it's easy for a pickpocket to lift a camera or purse with a quick snip of scissors or some clever handiwork with a zipper. Travelers beware: 5 of Rome's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
3. Cash or Czech: Prague, Czech Republic
The famously beautiful Charles Bridge is lined with 30 baroque-style statues, as well as thousands of tourists who crowd its ancient stones each year, making a perfect recipe for pickpocketing. Before taking in the view of the Vltava River and the Prague Castle beyond, be sure valuables are strapped down. Travelers beware: 6 of Prague's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
4. Madrid Mischief: Madrid, Spain
El Rastro fleamarket and the crowded metro are often cited as spots where unfriendly pickpocket schemes can put a damper on a visit to this beautiful city. However, travelers should also beware that in museums (Madrid has many) pickpockets can be crafty as well, preying on distracted tourists.
5. Poaching in Paris: Paris, France
The City of Light draws enormous crowds from the base of the Eiffel Tower to the steps of Sacre-Coeur and everywhere in between. But enormous crowds can also be found below ground, in the city's metro system, where travelers should be especially cautious.
6. Italian Job: Florence, Italy
It is certainly easy to see why tourists would be distracted by the majestic beauty of Michelangelo's David and the other incredible and awe-inspiring works of art and pieces of history all around Florence. When admiring Michelangelo's creation, or at its replica in busy Piazza della Signoria, be alert that others may have their attention on your wallet.
7. Don't Cry for Me: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a vibrant and culturally rich city with much to offer, from the famed Teatro Colon to the city's many distinct neighborhoods. However, if while sightseeing you find you are suddenly covered in "bird droppings" (likely mustard) and a "friendly" local (likely a thief) happens to be standing by with napkins to help you clean up, beware. Travelers beware: 5 of Buenos Aires's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
8. No Dutch Treat: Amsterdam, Netherlands
It's easy to get carried away in Amsterdam with so many fun things to see and do, but don't be too taken in by the canals and the friendly, laid-back atmosphere – pickpocketers have been known to take advantage of countless tourists in this enchanting city.
9. Greek Tragedy: Athens, Greece
This legendary city features countless ancient monuments, many of which are outdoors. Whether visiting the Parthenon on the Acropolis, or anything else in this magnificent historic city, keep the bags close to the vest while your eyes admire the rest. Travelers beware: 5 of Athens's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
10. Hands On in Hanoi: Hanoi, Vietnam
The capital of Vietnam has its charming Old Quarter, littered with monuments and colonial architecture, and the city also features 600 temples and pagodas, making it a beautiful and unique place to visit, but also a place to stay alert for mischief. Travelers beware: 5 of Hanoi's top 10 most popular attractions according to TripAdvisor's Popularity Index are busy, outdoor attractions.
TripAdvisor's Top 5 tips to avoid being pickpocketed
1. Never keep your wallet or valuables in your rear pocket, even if it buttons – it's by far the easiest target.
2. Beware of the distraction tactic. Dropping something near you, squirting something on you, or simply jostling you. Be on guard when in crowds, and secure your belongings.
3. Pickpockets often work in pairs or groups and it's not just the usual suspects. Be cautious with any strangers—sometimes people who don't look like they'd be a threat, such as children or the elderly, can be part of larger operations.
4. Stay alert in confined spaces and near passageways. Try to avoid standing near the doorways of trains as groups of pickpockets can rush at you when the doors open.
5. Before you set off on a trip, pare down the contents of your purse or wallet as the smaller the bulge, the less likely pickpockets are to covet it.
"Not always a basic 'lift-and-run' operation, expert pickpocketing can sometimes involve more complicated scams," said Christine Petersen, chief marketing officer for TripAdvisor. "Travelers need to be aware of all kinds of tricks meant to distract them from their belongings while enjoying popular world attractions."
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Very Typical Venetian Drink: The Spritz
I'm borrowing today from Jaunted.com, one of my favorite websites. Learn about one of the most Venetian of drinks...how to pronounce it, how to order it, what's in it, and a good place to get it!
Where To Drink Jaunted's Favorite Spritz Cocktail In Venice
Where: San Polo 2807, Campiello San Tomà , Venice, Italy
by JetSetCD on July 17, 2009 at 3:29 PM
While the summer is at its peak and you're no doubt tired of chugging bottled water under the sun at tourist sites, we're going to hit some of the world's best watering holes and down their famous summer cocktails. Bottoms up!
As dusk hits the lagoon of La Serenissima, tourists retire to their hotels for naps or plain cooling down from hot days under the Adriatic sun, spent museum-hopping and souvenir shopping. This is the cocktail hour in Venice, when it feels as though the locals emerge after lying in wait for the tourists to tire. To celebrate the beginning of another evening of socializing and good food, the cocktail hour usually focuses around Venice's signature local drink: the Spritz.
Based on either Campari or Aperol—with Campari the typically male version and Aperol (order "Spritz al Aperol") for women—a Spritz is a happy little red-ochre potion which can be found year-round in Venetian bars. Nonetheless, summer turns us away from our usual Prosecco and towards the fresher comforts of a Spritz at the Ciak 1 bar in the San Polo district.
Ciak 1, left out of most guidebooks and online bar listings, is a spot we've discovered after much Venice trial-and-error in terms of finding a great atmosphere, great drinks, and a place which also sells the Frittelle specialities of the February Carnevale. Nestled in the Campiello San Tomà , a small square which seems to magically appear when you're on the verge of becoming very frustrated with attempting to navigate Venice, Ciak 1 is our highest recommendation for sitting with a friend and savoring a simple Spritz.
Here's how to mix your own at home:
· Dump some ice into a lowball glass
· Pour 2oz of Prosecco from Treviso (ok, or any sparkling white wine)
· Add a touch of sparkling water
· Finish with 1.5oz of either Campari or Aperol
· Garnish with an orange peel and serve
Or, go truly summer cocktail with a little alternative we've come up with ourselves, even though we won't pretend to be the first the mix the ingredients. It's a result of much time spent in hot Italian weather. Enjoy it the Jaunted way:
· Dump a fistful of ice into a highball glass or larger
· Pour in the contents of one of those cute Campari Soda bottles
· Empty a can of Lemon Soda in there as well
· Mix and serve; it's like a fizzy grapefruit-ish cocktail!
Where To Drink Jaunted's Favorite Spritz Cocktail In Venice
Where: San Polo 2807, Campiello San Tomà , Venice, Italy
by JetSetCD on July 17, 2009 at 3:29 PM
While the summer is at its peak and you're no doubt tired of chugging bottled water under the sun at tourist sites, we're going to hit some of the world's best watering holes and down their famous summer cocktails. Bottoms up!
As dusk hits the lagoon of La Serenissima, tourists retire to their hotels for naps or plain cooling down from hot days under the Adriatic sun, spent museum-hopping and souvenir shopping. This is the cocktail hour in Venice, when it feels as though the locals emerge after lying in wait for the tourists to tire. To celebrate the beginning of another evening of socializing and good food, the cocktail hour usually focuses around Venice's signature local drink: the Spritz.
Based on either Campari or Aperol—with Campari the typically male version and Aperol (order "Spritz al Aperol") for women—a Spritz is a happy little red-ochre potion which can be found year-round in Venetian bars. Nonetheless, summer turns us away from our usual Prosecco and towards the fresher comforts of a Spritz at the Ciak 1 bar in the San Polo district.
Ciak 1, left out of most guidebooks and online bar listings, is a spot we've discovered after much Venice trial-and-error in terms of finding a great atmosphere, great drinks, and a place which also sells the Frittelle specialities of the February Carnevale. Nestled in the Campiello San Tomà , a small square which seems to magically appear when you're on the verge of becoming very frustrated with attempting to navigate Venice, Ciak 1 is our highest recommendation for sitting with a friend and savoring a simple Spritz.
Here's how to mix your own at home:
· Dump some ice into a lowball glass
· Pour 2oz of Prosecco from Treviso (ok, or any sparkling white wine)
· Add a touch of sparkling water
· Finish with 1.5oz of either Campari or Aperol
· Garnish with an orange peel and serve
Or, go truly summer cocktail with a little alternative we've come up with ourselves, even though we won't pretend to be the first the mix the ingredients. It's a result of much time spent in hot Italian weather. Enjoy it the Jaunted way:
· Dump a fistful of ice into a highball glass or larger
· Pour in the contents of one of those cute Campari Soda bottles
· Empty a can of Lemon Soda in there as well
· Mix and serve; it's like a fizzy grapefruit-ish cocktail!
Thursday, July 2, 2009
World's Most Scenic Train Rides
The American Society of Travel Writers has come out with a fine list of what it considers the World's Top 10 Train Rides. See http://ow.ly/glYw
And another good list from The Travel Editor, http://ow.ly/gm00
And another good list from The Travel Editor, http://ow.ly/gm00
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
World's Most Spectacular Wine Tasting Rooms
Thanks to Travel + Leisure for this lovely look at some of the world's most spectacular sites for wine tasting!
http://bit.ly/mto2p
http://bit.ly/mto2p
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