Turkey Travel
Turkey (Turkish: Türkiye) is on the Mediterranean, with 97% of it's territory in West Asia and the Middle East, and with a small section in Southeastern Europe separated by the Turkish Straits (Bosphorus, Sea of Marmara, and Dardanelles). With the Black Sea to the north and the Aegean Sea in the west and Mediterranean Sea to the southwest, Turkey is surrounded by Bulgaria and Greece to the west, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia to the northeast, Syria, Iraq and Iran to the southeast.
Understand
There is evidence that the bed of the Black Sea was once an inhabited plain, before it was flooded in prehistoric times by rising sea levels. Mount Ararat (Ağrı Dağı), at 5,165 m is the country's highest point and legendary landing place of Noah's Ark, lies in the mountains on the far eastern edge of the country.
Turkey was founded in 1923 from the remnants of the Ottoman Empire. Soon thereafter the country instituted secular laws to replace traditional religious fiats. In 1945 Turkey joined the UN, and in 1952 it became a member of NATO.
Turkey offers a wealth of destination varieties to travellers: from dome-and-minaret filled skyline of Istanbul to Roman ruins along the western and southern coasts, from heavily indented coastline against a mountainous backdrop of Lycia and wide and sunny beaches of Pamphylia to cold and snowy mountains of the East, from crazy "foam parties" of Bodrum to Middle Eastern-flavoured cities of Southeastern Anatolia, from verdant misty mountains of Eastern Black Sea to wide steppe landscapes of Central Anatolia, there is something for everyone's taste-whether they be travelling on an extreme budget by hitchhiking or by a multi-million yacht.
Geography
Turkey occupies a landmass slightly larger than Texas, at just over 750,000 square kilometres, and is more than three times the size of the United Kingdom. In terms of the variety of terrain and particularly the diversity of its plant life, however, Turkey exhibits the characteristics of a small continent. There are, for example, some 10,000 plant species in the country (compared with some 13,000 in all of Europe) - one in three of which is endemic to Turkey. Indeed, there are more species in Istanbul Province (2,000) than in the whole of the United Kingdom. While many people know of Turkey's rich archaeological heritage, it possesses an equally valuable array of ecosystems - peat bogs, heathlands, steppes, and coastal plains. Turkey possesses much forest (about a quarter of the land) but, as importantly, some half of the country is semi-natural landscape that has not been entirely remodelled by man.
Culture
While it may sound like a tourism brochure cliché, Turkey really is a curious mix of the west and the east-you may swear you were in a Balkan country or in Greece when in northwestern and western parts of the country (except that Byzantine-influenced churches are substituted with Byzantine-influenced mosques), which are indeed partly inhabited by people from Balkan countries, who immigrated during the turmoil before, during, and after WW1, while southeastern reaches of the country exhibit little if any cultural differences from Turkey's southern and eastern neighbours. Influences from the Caucasus add to the mix in the northeast part of the country. It can be simply put that Turkey is the most oriental of western nations, or, depending on the point of view, the most occidental of eastern nations.
Perhaps one thing common to all of the country is Islam, the faith of the bulk of the population. However, interpretation of it varies vastly across the country: many people in northwestern and western coasts are fairly liberal about the religion (being nominal Muslims sometimes to the point of being irreligious), while folk of the central steppes are far more conservative (don 't expect to find a Saudi Arabia or an Afghanistan even there, though). The rest of the country falls somewhere in between, with the coastal regions being relatively liberal while inland regions are relatively conservative as a general rule. The largest religious minority in the country are the Alevites, who constitute up to 20% of the population and who subscribe to a form of Islam closer to that of the Shiite version of Islam and practice Shamanistic rituals of ancient Turks. Other religious minorities-the Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic, Jews, Syriac Oriental Orthodox, and Roman Catholics, the latter of whom mainly settled in Turkey within the last 500 years from Western European countries-once numerous across the country, are now mostly confined to the large cities of Istanbul and Izmir, or parts of Southeastern Anatolia in the case of the Syriac Oriental Orthodox. Despite its large Muslim majority population, Turkey officially remains a secular country, with no declared state religion.
Holidays
The savvy traveller should remember that when travelling into, in or around Turkey there are several holidays to keep in mind as they can cause delays in travel, traffic congestion, booked up accommodations and crowded venues. Banks, offices and businesses are closed during official holidays and traffic intensifies during all of the following holidays so do your research before you visit. Do not be put off by these holidays, it is not that difficult and often quite interesting to travel during Turkish holidays, simply plan ahead as much as possible.
Official holidays
1 Jan: New Year's Day (Yılbaşı)
23 Apr: National Sovereignty and Children's Day (Ulusal Egemenlik ve Çocuk Bayramı) - anniversary of the establishment of the Turkish Grand National Assembly
1 May: Labour and Solidarity Day (Emek ve Dayanışma Günü, also unofficially known as İşçi Bayramı, ie Worker's Day) was long banned as a holiday for almost 40 years and only restarted as a national holiday in 2009 because in years past it usually degenerated into violence. The wary traveller would be advised to not get caught in the middle of a May Day parade or gathering.
19 May: Atatürk Commemoration and Youth & Sports Holiday (Atatürk'ü Anma Gençlik ve Spor Bayramı) - the arrival of Atatürk in Samsun, and the beginning of the War of Independence
30 Aug: Victory Day (Zafer Bayramı) - Celebration of the end of the war for Turkish Independence over invasion forces. A big Armed Forces day and display of military might by huge military parades.
29 Oct: Republic Day (Cumhuriyet Bayramı or Ekim Yirmidokuz) is anniversary of the declaration of Turkish Republic. If it falls on a Thursday for example, Friday and the weekend should be considered in your travel plans. October 29 is the official end of the tourist season in many resorts in Mediterranean Turkey and usually there is a huge celebration at the town squares.
10 Nov, 09:05 - Traffic usually stops and sirens blare for two minutes starting at 09:05, the time when Atatürk, founder of the Turkish Republic, died in Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul in 1938. That moment in time is officially observed throughout the country but businesses and official places are not closed for the day. However, do not be surprised if you are on the street, you hear a loud boom and all of a sudden people and traffic stop on the sidewalks and streets for a moment of silence in observance of this event.
Religious holidays [edit]
Ramadan dates
28 Jun-27 Jul 2014 (1435 AH)
18 Jun-16 Jul 2015 (1436 AH)
6 Jun-5 July 2016 (1437 AH)
Exact dates depend on local astronomical observations and vary from one country to another.
Ramadan ends with the Eid ul-Fitr festival extendign over several days.
Ramadan (Ramazan in Turkish) is a month long time of fasting, prayer and celebration during which pious Muslims neither drink nor eat anything, even water, from sun up to sun down. Businesses, banks and official places are not closed during this time. In some parts of Turkey, such as most of inland and eastern locations as locals are more conservative than people in the rest of the country, it is considered to be bad taste to eat snacks or drink sodas in front of locals in public places or transport -to be completely on the safe side, watch how local folk act-but restaurants are usually open and it is no problem to eat in them as usual, though some restaurant owners use it as an opportunity for a much-needed vacation (or renovation ) and shut their business completely for 30 days. However, you will unlikely see any closed establishment in big cities, central parts of the cities, and touristy towns of western and southern Turkey. At sunset, call for prayer and a cannon boom, fasting observers immediately sit down for iftar, their first meal of the day. Banks, businesses and official places are NOT closed during this time.
During Ramadan, many city councils set up tent-like structures in the major squares of the cities that are especially aimed and served for the needy, for those in poverty or who are elderly or handicapped, and are also served for passers by, with warm meals during the sunset (iftar), free of charge (much like soup kitchens, instead serving full meals). Iftar is a form of charity that is very rewarding especially when feeding someone who is needy. It was first practised by the Prophet Muhammad during the advent of Islam, for that purpose. Travellers are welcome to join, but do not take advantage of it during the entire fasting period, just because it is free of charge.
Immediately following Ramazan is the Eid-ul Fitr, or the three-day national holiday of Ramazan Bayramı, also called Şeker Bayramı (ie "Sugar" or more precisely "Candy Festival") during which banks, offices and businesses are closed and travel will be heavy. However, many restaurants, cafes and bars will be open.
Kurban Bayrami (pronounced koor-BAHN bahy-rah-muh) in Turkish, (Eid el-Adha in Arabic) or sacrifice holiday is the most important Islamic religious festival of the year. It lasts for several days and is a public holiday in Turkey. Almost everything will be closed during that time (many restaurants, cafes, bars and some small shops will be open however). Kurban Bayrami is also the time of the annual pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca, so both domestic and international travel is intense in Turkey at this time. If you are in smaller towns or villages you may even observe an animal, usually a goat but sometimes a cow, being slaughtered in a public place. In recent years the Turkish government has cracked down on these unofficial slaughterings so it is not as common as it once was.
The dates of these religious festivals change according to the Muslim lunar calendar and thus occur 10-11 days (the exact difference between Gregorian and Lunar calendars is 10 days and 21 hrs) earlier each year:
. Şeker / Ramazan Bayramı
. Kurban Bayramı Turkey's Republic Day, a major patriotic holiday, with travel effects through 30 Oct.
During both religious holidays, many cities (but not all) provide free public transport (these do not include privately owned minibuses, dolmuşes, taxis, or inter-city buses). This depends on the place and time. For example, Istanbul's public transport authority provided free transport in Eid-ul Fitr 2008, but not in Eid-ul Adha 2008 when passengers had to pay a discounted rate. For some years, it was all free in both holidays, while in some others there was no discount at all. To be sure, check whether other passengers use a ticket / token or not.
Climate
The climate in Turkey has a vast diversity depending on the diverse topography and latitude.
Aegean and Mediterranean coastal areas enjoy the typical Mediterranean climate. There is hardly a drop of rain during the sunny and hot summer (May to October). Winters are mild and rainy in these regions, and it very rarely snows at coastal areas, with the exception of mountainous areas higher than 2000 metres of these regions, which are very snowy and are frequently not passable. The water temperature in the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas is warm during the long summer season (May to October) which constitutes the swimming season and fluctuates between 23 ° and 28 ° C from north to south.
The region around the Sea of Marmara, including Istanbul, has a transitional climate between an oceanic climate and a semi-Mediterranean climate, but it does rain, albeit not a lot, during the very warm summer (as showers which tend to last for 15 -30 minutes). Its winters are colder than those of the western and southern coasts. Snow is common at coastal areas, although it does not stay on the ground for long and is limited to only a few days every winter. The water temperature in the Sea of Marmara is also colder than the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas, with the water temperature reaching only between 20 ° and 24 ° C during the summer (June, July and August) and the swimming season is restricted to those summer months.
The Black Sea region has an oceanic climate (thanks to the protective shield effect of Caucasus mountains) with the greatest amount of precipitation and is the only region of Turkey that receives high precipitation throughout the year. The eastern part of that coast averages 2,500 millimetres annually which is the highest precipitation in the country. Summers are warm and humid while the winters are cool and damp. Snow is common at coastal areas, although it does not stay on the ground for long and is limited to only a few days every winter, though mountains are very snowy as it is expected to be and are frequently not passable, there are glaciers around the year in the highest zones. The water temperature in the whole Turkish Black Sea coast is always cool and fluctuates between 10 ° and 20 ° C throughout the year, and is even less suitable for swimming during the summer than in the Sea of Marmara.
Most of the coastal areas have a high level of relative humidity during most of the year which makes hot weather feel hotter and cold weather feel colder than it actually is.
Interior areas like Ankara, generally have hot summers (though the nights are cool enough to make someone who is wearing only a thin t-shirt uncomfortable outdoors) and cold and snowy winters. The more easterly the location is, the colder the winters are and the heavier the snow is. The northeastern part (around Erzurum and Kars) is the only inland area which has cool and rainy summers.
The southeastern region near the Syrian border has a desert-like climate, temperature is frequently above 40 ° C during summers with no rain. Snowfall is occasional in winter.
Regions
Turkey regions map.png
Aegean Turkey
Greek and Roman ruins between azure sea on one side and silvery olive groves on the other
Black Sea TurkeyHeavily forested mountains offering great outdoor sports such as trekking and rafting
Central Anatolia
Tree-poor central steppes with the national capital, Hittite and Phrygian ruins, and moon-like Cappadocia
Eastern Anatolia
High and mountainous eastern part with harsh winters
Marmara Region
The most urbanized region with Byzantine and Ottoman monuments in some of the country's greatest cities
Mediterranean Turkey
Mountains clad with pine woods ascending right from the heavily-indented coastline of the crystal clear sea
Southeastern Anatolia
Semi-desert Middle-Eastern most part of the country mostly populated by Kurds
Cities
Amasya - an inland central Black Sea city along with Yeşilırmak (Iris) river and amazing well-preserved Ottoman whitewashed architecture along with riverside, extraordinary King Rock Tombs from Pontic Greeks, just feel like in an open-air museum
Ankara - the capital of Turkey and its second largest city
Antalya - the fastest growing city, hub to an array of beach resorts
Bodrum - a trendy coastal town in the Southern Aegean which turns into a crowded city in season when it serves as a playground for Turkish and international holidaymakers alike, featuring a citadel, Roman ruins, trendy clubs and a number of villages surrounding the peninsula each with a different character from classy to rustic
Bursa - the first capital of the Ottoman Empire
Edirne - the second capital of the Ottoman Empire
Eskisehir - The Venice of Turkey, described as one of the most beautiful cities in Anatolia.
Istanbul (Constantinople) - Turkey's largest city, the former capital of both the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires, and the only major city in the world to straddle two continents
Izmir - Turkey's third largest city
Konya - a quite large city that is the heartland of mystic Sufi order, the site of Rumi's tomb, and with some elegant Seljuq architecture, all surrounded by vast steppes
Trabzon - the wonderful Sümela Monastery is just outside the city and it is a great gateway to exploring the Turkish Northeast
Urfa - magical city with beautiful architecture and extremely friendly locals at the gates of Eastern World; where Turkish, Kurdish, Arabic, and Persian cultures mingle
Other destinations
Flying over the turquoise waters in Ölüdeniz
. Ani - impressive ruins of medieval Armenian capital in the far east of the country
. Amasya - impressive rock tombs from ancient pontus greeks and amazing Ottoman wooden houses along with riverside
. Cappadocia - an area in central highlands best known for its unique moon-like landscape (the "fairy chimneys"), underground cities, cave churches and houses carved in the rocks
. Ephesus - well-preserved ruins of the Roman city on the west coast
. Gallipoli - site of 1915 Anzac landing and many WWI memorials
. Mount Nemrut - a UNESCO World Heritage site with head statues dedicated to ancient Gods on its summit
. Ölüdeniz - imcomparable postcard beauty of "Blue Lagoon", perhaps the most famous beach of Turkey which you will see on any tourism brochure
. Pamukkale - "the Cotton Castle", white world of travertines surrounding cascading shallow pools filled with thermal waters
. Sümela - stunning monastery on the cliffs of a mountain, a must-see on any trip to the northeast coast
. Uludağ - a national park featuring school textbook belts of different types of forests varying with altitude, and the major wintersports resort of the country
Get in
Citizens of the following countries can get a multiple-entry, sticker-type visa at any point of entry into Turkey for a fee
PLEASE NOTE that as of 10 April 2014, nationals of the countries below will not be able to obtain sticker-type visas at the port of entry any more. Those nationals should apply online for the Turkish e-Visa. All prices are in US Dollars only, and only Visa and Mastercard credit / debit cards are accepted as payment methods. If arriving at Ataturk airport in Istanbul, it is possible to purchase a visa from an automatic machine before clearing the immigration for the fixed rate of 20 USD (payment by card).
Valid for three months:
Antigua and Barbuda (US $ 20 / € 15)
Australia (US $ 60 / € 45)
Austria (US $ 20 / € 15 / £ 10)
Bahamas (US $ 20 / € 15)
Barbados (US $ 20 / € 15)
Belgium (US $ 20 / € 15 / £ 10)
Canada (US $ 60 / € 45)
Dominica (US $ 20 / € 15)
Dominican Republic (US $ 20 / € 15)
Grenada (US $ 20 / € 15)
Haiti (US $ 20 / € 15)
Hong Kong (BNO Passport) (US $ 20 / € 15)
Republic of Ireland (US $ 20 / € 15 / £ 10)
Jamaica (US $ 20 / € 15)
Kuwait (US $ 20 / € 15) (until October 31, 2013)
Maldives (US $ 20 / € 15)
Malta (Free)
Mexico (US $ 20 / € 15, with valid Schengen, UK, Canada, US, or Japan visa)
Netherlands (US $ 20 / € 15 / £ 10)
Norway (US $ 20 / € 15 / £ 10)
Oman (US $ 20 / € 15)
Poland (US $ 20 / € 15 / £ 10)
Portugal (US $ 20 / € 15 / £ 10)
Qatar (US $ 20 / € 15) (until October 31, 2013)
Saudi Arabia (US $ 20 / € 15) (until October 31, 2013)
Spain (US $ 20 / € 15)
Saint Kitts and Nevis (US $ 20 / € 15)
Saint Lucia (US $ 20 / € 15)
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (US $ 20 / € 15)
United Arab Emirates (US $ 20 / € 15) (until October 31, 2013)
Ukraine (US $ 30 / € 20) (until August 01, 2012)
United Kingdom (US $ 20 / € 15 / £ 10)
United States of America (US $ 20 / € 15)
Valid for two months:
Belarus (US $ 20 / € 15)
Valid for one month:
Armenia (US $ 15 / € 10)
Bahrain (US $ 15 / € 10)
Bangladesh (US $ 20 / € 15, with valid Schengen, UK, or US visa)
Republic of Cyprus (US $ 20 / € 15 / £ 10)
India (US $ 20 / € 15, with valid Schengen, UK, or US visa)
Indonesia (US $ 25)
Mauritius (US $ 15 / € 10)
Moldova (US $ 30 / € 20)
Pakistan (US $ 20 / € 15, with valid Schengen, UK, or US visa)
South Africa (US $ 15 / € 10)
(NOTE: Payments in Pounds Sterling must be in Bank of England £ 10 notes ONLY. No Scottish or Northern Irish notes and no other values of notes (£ 5/20/50)
The citizens of the countries / territories listed below can enter Turkey visa-free for 90 days unless otherwise stated
Albania, Andorra, Argentina, Azerbaijan (30 days), Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina (60 days), Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Chile, Costa Rica (30 days), Croatia, Czech Republic, Northern Cyprus (Turkish republic of), Denmark, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Hong Kong (SAR Passport), Iran, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan (30 days), Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan (30 days), Latvia (30 days), Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macau (30 days), Macedonia (60 days), Malaysia, Moldova (30 days), Monaco, Mongolia (30 days), Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Peru, Romania, Russia (60 days), San Marino, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Syria, Tajikistan (30 days), Thailand (30 days) , Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkmenistan (30 days), Uruguay, Uzbekistan (30 days), Vatican City and Venezuela.
German citizens may enter with a passport, national ID card (Personalausweis) or an expired passport / ID unless arriving at the non-Council of Europe land border crossings (ie from Iran, Iraq and Syria).
More information can be found at theTurkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Capital Ankara
Government parliamentary republic
Currency Turkish lira (TRY)
Area 783,562km²
water: 13,930km²
land: 769,632km²
Population 73,193,000 (2006 estimate)
Language Turkish (official); Kurdish, Zaza, Arabic, Azeri, Laz
Religion Islam (Sunni majority, Alevi minority); also small numbers of Eastern Rite Christians, Jews, agnostics, and atheists
Electricity 220V, 50Hz (European plug)
Country code +90
Internet TLD .tr
Time Zone UTC +2
Emergencies dial 155 for police
110 for fire
112 for medical
What to buy?
Apart from classical tourist souvenirs like postcards and trinkets, here are a few of what you can bring back home from Turkey.
. Leather clothing - Turkey is the biggest leather producer in the world, so the leather clothing is cheaper than elsewhere. Many shops in Laleli, Beyazıt, Mahmutpaşa districts of Istanbul (all around the tram line which goes through Sultanahmet Square) are specialized on leather.
. Carpets and kilims - Many regions in Turkey produce handmade kilims and carpets. Though the symbols and figures differentiate depending on the region in which the carpet is produced, they are generally symbollic expressions based on ancient Anatolian religions and / or nomadic Turkic life which takes shape around shamanic beliefs more than 1000 years ago. You can find shops specialized on handmade carpets and kilims in any major city, tourist spot and Sultanahmet Area.
You seriously can not go anywhere in Turkey without someone trying to sell you a carpet. People will approach you on the street, engage in a little friendly conversation about where you're from, how do you like Turkey, and "would you like to come with me to my uncle's shop? It's just around the corner, and has the best authentic kilims. "It can be irritating if you let it get to you, but remember that a large part of these people's economy comes from tourist's wallets so you can not blame them for trying.
. Silk - Dresses and scarves. Although can be found in many parts of the country, silk fans should head for Bursa and before that, pick up basics of bargaining.
. Earthenware - Handmade Cappadocian pottery (amphoras, old-style plates, flowerpots etc) are made of local salty clay. Salt content of clay, thanks to salt spray produced by the Salt Lake -which is the second largest lake in Turkey- in the heartland of Central Anatolia, is what makes local earthenware top quality. In some Cappadocian towns, it is possible to see how these artifacts are produced, or even to experience producing one, at the dedicated workshops. Tiles with classical Ottoman motives that are produced in Kütahya are also famous.
. Turkish delight and Turkish coffee - If you like these during your Turkey trip, do not forget to take a few packages back home. Available everywhere.
. Honey - The pine honey (çam balı) of Marmaris is famous and has a much stronger taste and consistency than regular flower honeys. Although not easily attained, if you can find, do not miss the honey of Macahel valley, made out of flowers of a temperate semi-rainforest, which is almost completely out of human impact, in the far northeastern Black Sea Region.
. Chestnut dessert - Made out of syrup and chestnuts grown on the foothills of Mt. Uludağ, chestnut dessert (kestane şekeri) is a famous and tasty product of Bursa. There are many variations, such as chocolate coated ones. Chestnut dessert can be found in elsewhere, too, but relatively more expensive and in smaller packages.
. Meerschaum souvenirs - Despite its name meaning "sea foam" which it resembles, meerschaum (lületaşı) is extracted only in one place in the world: landlocked Eskişehir province in the extreme northwest part of Central Anatolia Region. This rock, similar to gypsum at sight, is carved into smoking pipes and cigarette holders. It has a soft and creamy texture and makes for a great decorative item. Available at some shops in Eskişehir.
. Castile (olive oil) soap - Natural, a silky touch on your skin, and a warm Mediterranean atmosphere in your bathroom. Absolutely cheaper than those to be found in Northern and Western Europe. Street markets in the Aegean Region and southern Marmara Region is full of olive oil soap, almost all of which are handmade. Even some old folk in the Aegean Region is producing their castile soaps in the traditional way: during or just after the olive harvest, neighbours gather in yards around large boilers heated by wood fire, then lye derived from the wood ash is added to hot water . and olive oil mix. Remember - supermarkets out of the Aegean Region are generally offering no more than industrial tallow based soaps full of chemicals. In cities out of the Aegean Region, natural olive oil soap can be found in shops specialized in olive and olive oil. Some of these shops are even offering ecological soaps: made of organic olive oil and sometimes with additions of organic essential oils.
. Other soaps unique to Turkey are: laurel soaps (defne sabunu) which is produced mainly in Antioch, soaps of Isparta enriched with rose oil which is produced abundantly in the area around Isparta, and bıttım sabunu, a soap made out of the oil of seeds of a local variety of pistachio tree native to the mountains of Southeastern Region. In Edirne, soaps shaped as various fruits are produced. Not used for their lather, rather they make a good assortment when different "fruits" are placed in a basket on a table, they fill the air with their sweet scent as well.
. Olive-based products apart from soap - Other olive-based products to give a try are olive oil shampoos, olive oil based eau de colognes and zeyşe, abbreviation from the first syllables of zeytin şekeri, a dessert similar to chestnut desserts, but made from olives.
WARNING! To export or to take out the antiques which are more than 100 years old from Turkey is subject to heavy restrictions or in many cases outright forbidden. If it is the case that someone offers you to sell antiques, either he / she is a liar, just trying to sell cheap imitations or he / she is committing a crime, which you are about to be a part of, if you accept to be the purchaser.
Travel in Françe
France is geographically one of the most diverse countries in Europe. Its cities contain some of the greatest treasures in Europe, its countryside is prosperous and well tended and it boasts dozens of major tourist attractions, like Paris, the French Riviera, the Atlantic beaches, the winter sport resorts of the French Alps, the castles of the Loire Valley, Brittany and Normandy. France is renowned for its gastronomy (particularly wines and cheeses), history, culture and fashion.
Understand
"It is only with the heart that one can see rightly. What is essential is invisible to the eye." - Antoine de Saint Exupéry, from The Little Prince
France has been the world's most popular tourist destination for over twenty years (83.0 million in 2012).
Metropolitan France is in Western Europe sharing frontiers with Belgium, Luxembourg and Germany to the northeast, Switzerland to the east, Italy to the south-east. Spain and the small country of Andorra are to the south-west, across the Pyrenees mountain range. The Mediterranean Sea laps the south of France, with the Principality of Monaco forming a small enclave. To the west, France has a long Atlantic Ocean coastline, while to the north lies the English Channel, across which lies the last of France's neighbours, England (part of the United Kingdom).
In the Caribbean, France borders the Netherlands via the French territory of Saint-Martin which borders the Dutch territory of Sint Maarten. Five oversea regions also form part of France: Martinique and Guadeloupe in the Caribbean, French Guiana in South America, and Reunion and Mayotte, both off the coast of Madagascar. Numerous French oversea territories also exist around the Earth with varying status.
Climate
A lot of variety, but temperate winters and mild summers on most of the territory, and especially in Paris. Mild winters and hot summers along the Mediterranean and in the southwest (the latter has lots of rain in winter). Mild winters (with lots of rain) and cool summers in the northwest (Brittany). Cool to cold winters and hot summer along the German border (Alsace). Along the Rhône Valley, there is an occasional strong, cold, dry, north-to-northwesterly wind known as the mistral.
Cold winters with lots of the snow in the Mountainous regions: Alps, Pyrenees, Auvergne.
Terrain
Mostly flat plains or gently rolling hills in north and west; remainder is mountainous, especially Pyrenees in south west, Vosges, Jura and Alps in east, Massif Central in the mid south.
When to travel
If possible, try to avoid French school holidays and Easter, because hotels are very likely to be overbooked and traffic on the roads is simply awful.
Holidays: search internet for [French school holidays], as they vary from region to region. Mostly, the winter holidays are 10 Feb-10 Mar. The spring holidays are often 10 Apr-10 May.
Winter gets very cold, sometimes freezing. Make sure to bring appropriate clothing to keep you warm while visiting.
Hotels are very likely to be overbooked and road traffic will be awful during the 1 May, 8 May, 11 Nov, Easter Weekend, Ascension weekend too.
Overseas departments
Guadeloupe
Martinique
Mayotte
French Guiana (Guyane Française)
Réunion.
Overseas territories
French Polynesia (Polynésie Française) - post-card tropical islands in Oceania
New Caledonia (Nouvelle Caledonie) - long-shaped island in Oceania
Saint-Pierre and Miquelon (Saint Pierre et Miquelon) - small islands off the Canadian coast
Wallis and Futuna -
The following overseas territories are remote possessions kept as natural reservations:
French Southern and Antarctic territories (Terres Antarctiques et Australes Françaises, or TAAF), consisting of Terre Adélie in Antarctica and some islands in the Indian Ocean
Scattered Islands of the Indian Ocean (Iles Eparses): Europa Island, Bassas da India, Juan de Nova Island, Glorioso Islands (Glorieuses)
Clipperton Island
A very limited form of tourism is available in the TAAF islands.
cities
France has numerous cities of interest to travellers, below is a list of nine of the most notable:
Paris - the "City of Light", romance and the Eiffel Tower
Bordeaux - city of wine, traditional stone mansions and smart terraces
Bourges - gardens, canals and a cathedral listed as a UNESCO heritage site
Lille - a dynamic northern city known for its handsome centre and active cultural life
Lyon - France's second city with a history from Roman times to the Resistance
Marseille - Third largest French city with a harbour as big as its place as the heart of Provence
Nantes - the "Greenest City" and, according to some, the best place to live in Europe
Strasbourg - famous for its historical centre, and home to many European institutions
Toulouse - the "Pink City", for its distinctive brick architecture, main city of Occitania
Other destinations
. Camargue - one of Europe's largest river deltas and wetlands
. Corsica - the birthplace of Napoleon, a unique island with a distinct culture and language
. Disneyland Paris - the most visited attraction in Europe
. French Alps - home to the highest mountain in Western Europe, the Mont Blanc
. French Riviera (Côte d'Azur) - Mediterranean coastline of France with plenty of upper class seaside resorts, yachts and golf courses
. Loire Valley - the world-famous Loire Valley, best known for its wines and chateaux
. Luberon - the stereotypical Provence of picturesque villages, joie de vivre and wine
. Mont Saint Michel - second most-visited sight in France, a monastery and town built on a tiny outcrop of rock in the sand, which is cut off from the mainland at high tide
. Verdon Gorge - beautiful river canyon in a turquoise-green, great for kayaking, hiking, rock-climbing or just driving around the limestone cliffs
Regions
France is divided into 22 administrative regions, which themselves can be grouped into seven cultural regions:
Regions of France
Île-de-France
The region surrounding the French capital, Paris.
Northern France (Nord-Pas de Calais, Picardy, Normandy)
A region where the world wars have left many scars.
Northeastern France (Alsace, Lorraine, Champagne-Ardenne, Franche-Comté)
A region where wider European culture (and especially Germanic culture) has merged with the French, giving rise to interesting results.
Great West (Brittany, Pays de la Loire)
An agriculture-based oceanic region with a culture greatly influenced by the ancient Celtic peoples.
Central France (Centre-Val de Loire, Poitou-Charentes, Burgundy, Limousin, Auvergne)
A largely agricultural and vinicultural region, featuring river valleys, chateaux and historic towns.
Southwestern France (Aquitaine, Midi-Pyrenees)
A region of sea and wine, with nice beaches over the Atlantic Ocean and young high mountains close to Spain.
Southeastern France (Rhône-Alpes, Languedoc-Roussillon, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Corsica)
The primary tourist region of the country outside of Paris, with a warm climate and azure sea, contrasting with the mountainous French Alps.
Each administrative region is divided into a number of departments. Each department is allocated a 2 digit number. This number forms the first 2 digits of the 5 digit French postcode.
Capital ParisGovernment republic
Currency Euro (€)
CFP Franc (XPF) (Pacific overseas territories)
Area 643,801km²
water: 3,374km²
land: 640,427km²
Population 63,929,000 in metropolitan France
66,616,416 in all France (2014 estimates)
Language French
recognized locally: Alsatian, Catalan, Corsican, Breton, Gallo, Occitan, some languages of New Caledonia
Religion 45% Christian, 3% Muslim, 1% Jewish, 1% Buddhist, 6% other religion, 44% none or not stated
Electricity 220-230V, 50Hz. Outlets: CEE7 / 5 (protruding male earth pin), accepting CEE 7/5 (Grounded), CEE 7/7 (Grounded) or CEE 7/16 (non-grounded) plugs
Country code 33
Internet TLD .fr
Time Zone UTC +1
Sensitive topics
As a general rule, debates, discussions, and friendly arguments are something that the French enjoy, but there are certain topics that should be treated more delicately or indirectly than others:
Politics: French people have a wide variety of opinions about many subjects. Unless you really follow French news closely, you should probably steer clear of discussing internal French politics, especially sensitive issues such as immigration - you may come across as judgmental and uninformed. Reading French newspapers to get a feel for the wide spectrum of political opinions in France - from the revolutionary left to the nationalistic right - may help. That said, do not be discouraged from engaging in political discussions with French people, just be aware of the position that being a foreigner puts you in. Also, it is considered to be quite rude to ask a person point-blank about which candidate he / she voted for in the last election (or will vote for in the next); instead, talk about the issues and take it from there.
Religion: The French seldom advertise their religious feelings, however, and expect you to avoid doing so as well. Doing so might make people feel uneasy. It is also generally considered impolite to inquire about religious or other personal issues. While France has barred religious symbols from public places including Sikh turban, Islamic hijab and Jewish kippah on grounds of secularism, this controversial topic is best avoided in polite conversations. People practicing those faiths need to be aware of the unfriendly attitudes that some in France hold to expression of religion in public places.
Money: You should also avoid presenting yourself through what you own (house, car, etc.). It is also considered to be quite crass to discuss your salary, or to ask someone else directly about theirs. Instead express your enthusiasm about how great are the responsibilities, or how lucky you were to get there, etc.
City / Rural Differences: While it is true that roughly 1 / 6th of the country's population lives in the Paris region, do not make the mistake of reducing France to Paris or assuming that all French people act like Parisians. Life in Paris can be closer to life in London or New York City than in the rest of France; just as New Yorkers or Londoners might act and feel differently than people from, say, Oklahoma or Herefordshire, so might Parisian customs and opinions differ from those found "en province."
Emergencies
Hospitals will have an emergency room signposted Urgences.
The following numbers are toll-free:
15 Medical emergencies
17 Law enforcement emergencies (for e.g. reporting a crime)
18 Firefighters
112 European standard emergency numbers.
Operators at these numbers can transfer requests to other services if needed (e.g. some medical emergencies may be answered by firefighter groups).
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited by law in all enclosed spaces accessible to the public (this includes train and subway cars, train and subway station enclosures, workplaces, restaurants and cafés) unless in areas specifically designated for smoking, and there are few of these. There was an exception for restaurants and cafés, but since the 1st January 2008, the smoking ban law is also enforced there. You may face a fine of €68 if you are found smoking in these places.
Smoking is banned in métro and trains, as well as enclosed stations. Subway and train conductors do enforce the law and will fine you for smoking in non-designated places; if you encounter problems with a smoker in train, you may go find the conductor.
As hotels are not considered as public places, some offer smoking vs non-smoking rooms.
Only people over the age 18 may purchase tobacco products. Shopkeepers may request a photo ID.
Tourism in Morocco
There Morocco many World Heritage sites: the archaeological site of Walili, Palace of Ait Ben Haddou, Mazagan (new), the ancient city of Essaouira, the old city of Fez, the ancient city of Marrakech, the ancient city of Tetouan, the historic city of Meknes, the cultural space of the Jemaa El Fna Square,the city Tangier and the city of Tan.Tan.
Tourism antique cities:
The official focus of tourism activity in Morocco, through decades, the cultural heritage offered by rich antique cities Bmatherha historical and traditional industries and popular culture these Fez, the first Islamic city in the country of Morocco, is a museum open pulsing history. Includes the prestigious University of villagers and a series of traditional markets, hotels Altarichah.ohzh red Marrakech Koutoubia surrounding a silo, and raises interesting visitors Badi Palace and break the lighthouse and Agdal Gardens, in addition to the traditional world of diverse industry. But her heart remains beating represented in the yard, "Djemaa el Fna" classified by the body, "UNESCO" universal human heritage of oral literature and the arts, which is an open space for popular Gap inherent in various forms and colors. It is no coincidence that the selection of Marrakech to host the National Festival of Folk Art and the Meknes, Rabat and Salé, WHDH Tangier city of magnificent nicknamed the Bride of the north, bordering the Mediterranean Ocean, Mediterranean Sea Alatlenti and accepted Taroudant, pieces of ancient history is open and libraries and museums and castles for tourists hungry for knowledge ..
Mountain tourism
Since the beginning of the tourist activity takes the form of contemporary, pioneers discovered distinct spaces for the practice of mountain tourism. The small city of Azilal (east of Marrakech) present activity. In winter the Atlas Mountains form the pole attractions thanks to snow that circulated Hamadtha. Morocco and is available on the important areas to ski on snow various Osnavh, both in the "Okimdn" on the outskirts of Marrakech, or in "Michleven" Azrou Ifrane cities and suburbs, and regions are available on the sports and tourist facilities
In the summer, the role of amateur sports climbing, which is particularly active in the outskirts of Marrakech, or convoys crossing the High Atlas Azilal from the northern foothills of the valves or composed or Tinerhir southern foothills comes. As many enthusiasts visited the deep caves and especially those located in the outskirts of the cities of Agadir in the south and Taza in the northeast. Also flock to these mountains amateur nature reserves, where the countryside and mountains of the Atlas Mountains are available on the most important protected areas in the country, especially the reserves Souss and Toubkal.
Sport tourism
Moroccan authorities have made special efforts to make physical activity in the tourism service. And relied in particular on the game of golf as a sport senior businessmen and set up tourist villages on a series of golf courses across the country
But sports tourism in Morocco did not generate this administrative decision, before it was mountains provide adequate space to fly glider, and natural lakes, located in various regions of the country, was and is still of interest to amateur flatwater games. At the same time constitute the country, in different areas, plenty of space to practice my sport hunting and fishing
Religious tourism
. Tijani angularity Fez
. Yom Hillula
Beach tourism
Morocco has 3,500 kilometers of beaches, a third of the Mediterranean Sea, and the rest of the Atlantic Ocean. It is what makes him a favorite of amateur tourism destinations, Moroccans and foreigners . and beaches were always a favorite destination with tourists during the summer in particular.
Mediterranean sea is proposed to the visitors the West and South, quiet beaches of pure water and golden sands, from Saadia to Tangier, passing through the front, Al Hoceima, Ristinka small palace, in the Atlantic Ocean presents a variety of complexions beaches, from Tangier to Lagouira, passing and the asila and Moulay Bousselham and Mahdia and Temara and Skhirat and Casablanca and neonatal and Essaouira, Agadir, Safi, Sidi Ifni and eyes, as well as Tangier, which is the capital of this type of tourism.
Statistics
The Moroccan Ministry of Tourism announced on Wednesday, July 5, the number of tourists in Morocco in the last five months of the current year increased by 16 per cent compared with last year. He has visited about 2.09 million tourists in the country that period, including 696 thousand Moroccan immigrant abroad. The ministry said that the highest recorded in Tangier by 31 per cent. In Marrakech, the figure was 27 per cent and 14 per cent in Agadir and 11 per cent in Casablanca and 9 per cent in Meknes and 8 per cent in Rabat and 6 per cent in Essaouira.
Tourism in Morocco recorded a decline in revenues amounted to 43% in early 2002 due to the effects of the events of September 11 in the United States amounted to tourism revenues in the first month of this year, $ 102 million compared to the same period in 2001, with revenues of about $ 179 million.
And works in the Moroccan tourism industry about 620 000 people and was the industry has seen a significant development in the years who scoop September 11 In 2000, tourism revenues increased 28% and reached 8.26 billion dirhams ($ 38.2 billion), but that Morocco aims to receive ten million annually by 2010, tourists from around 2.4 million tourists last year. And trying to Morocco to minimize the negative effects left by the events of September to continue in more projects, work has started since October 2002 for the development of sites for the construction of 36 hotels with about 7 thousand rooms in Marrakech, an investment costing 44.6 billion dirhams as well as some of the projects for many investors.
Morocco may be less harmful than the bad situation of tourism in the world due to the moderation that sets it apart.
Moroccan Tourist Office has set out to identify the most prominent features of the emergency plan to cope with the current crisis, Morocco is able to attract between 5 and 6 million tourists without taking into account the border tourism, which would change to some extent tourism and attract a variety of which an estimated two million tourists increase can Moroccan tourism who are abroad and publicity campaigns studied with priority given to all classes
28 Ways to Totally Blow Your Travel Budget in South America
Your flight will be the most expensive part of your trip. You can save hundreds of dollars by taking flights that require multiple stops instead of constantly and in some cases by adopting the airlines in the neighboring country of destination, airlines or smaller, then bus or national trains to their final destination.
2. Wear too little or too much luggage.
No climate survey may mean that you might end up buying things you already have at home and could carry with you, such as jackets, hats and gloves. On the other hand, if things probably do not need (or not be able to use) too many clothes, too many appliances (hair dryer, curling irons, shavers, cell phones do not work here) can add to your budget either airline counter (excess baggage) or when you have to pay someone to buy your luggage while you are here (taxi drivers, children and knobs in hotels and airports), or pay to keep your luggage while you are on the shorter leg of the trip.
3. The use of credit cards and travelers checks and do not bring enough money.
The surest way to lose money is to use credit cards. First, you have to pay an additional percentage for use in most South American countries (usually around 3%). Second, many places will not accept them. Traveler's checks are also exchanged (paid) in some places. Lack of money is another issue. If you have to have someone with wiring your money will blow a big wad of cash!
4. Ignore the great small hotels and hostels because they sound "unknown" or are not in the guidebooks.
There are many small hotels and inns that are clean, comfortable and offer good service throughout Latin America. You should not be in a big expensive hotel. I'm not suggesting that you put up with cockroaches, but if you intend to spend much time in bed or watch TV, how many times you actually stay in your room anyway? One of the best ways to find a cheap but good hotel is to obtain a series of personal recommendations, we encourage you to visit the forums on Travel and comments hotel (and pay later - leave your review for someone another to take advantage of if and traveled).
5. how to pay too much for food.
While you should always take precautions to ensure you do not get sick, skip the restaurants that do not look clean, but not always dine in expensive restaurants. Choose restaurants that look great, but are not in the guidebooks. Most restaurants that are frequented by tourists adjust their menu prices for tourists and locals who choose to dine there not knowing this. In addition, many travelers do not try local food !! Did you know that in many parts of South America international or foreign fast food restaurants are a luxury and among the most expensive options for local standards?
6. case.
In supermarkets and shops with items priced tickets can not negotiate the price. But in the most open markets that it is wrong not to. Vendors automatically increase the price when they see that you are a stranger and expect your first reaction is a request for a price differential.
7. Ignore the opening of markets.
The opening of Latin American markets that sell everything. Skip meats and cheeses (they will never be refrigerated) and non-bottled water and fruit juice, but the purchase of fruits, vegetables, bread, butter, biscuits and snacks, refreshments and more. Almost everything you find in a supermarket can be found here. You can also get sunglasses, hats and clothing, mosquito repellent, batteries, toiletries and other things that are sold in supermarkets close up twice.
9. Go trap tourists shopping.
Markets in Latin America not only sell food. Place the trap souvenir shops in tourist expensive (over costs about 2-3 times more than they should). Even areas memories that resemble open markets can be much more expensive than it should be because they cater to foreigners. If you see only memories and nothing else, it is a tourist paradise. Go to open markets, buying individual providers who offer their products on the street, and you can get the same memories at much lower prices. And do not forget to bargain (will be surprised if it does). You will truly help the needy in our local economy if the sector.
10. Ignore the free sites and attractions not cool in the guide books.
Stay on the trail of 100% of the time and you lose a lot of money (and lost some really nice places to visit). Did you know that many major museums and galleries in South America do not charge fees? Have you checked the hundreds of large parks and places for people to look great local opportunities and photo? He asked residents which is great to see?
11. Payment taxis too, do not take public transport, not going anywhere.
Many hotels have residents taxi services. Do not use them. They charge what it costs 2-3 times normal taxi. A short walk around the corner and take a taxi in the street.
12. Take the bad electronics, and accessories.
The energy sources vary widely in South America and one country to another (even within a country). Some use 220V and 110V some. You must bring adapters or make sure to wear the proper equipment for the area you are traveling or living room.
13. study the appropriate documentation.
All countries need some foreigners to enter (passports, vaccines against yellow fever, letters of invitation, hotel reservations, etc.). Having all the right documents before arriving will be a boon for your wallet. Get arrival may cost you more, wasting time, and the ability to end up being sent home if you do not have the documentation you need.
14. Do not leave copies of your documents and credit cards at home.
Losing or getting your stolen documents can be a really horrible experience. Do not get copies only made things worse. Leave copies of your passport, medical records, airline tickets, credit cards and other important documents in your wallet at home (and bring an extra copy with you) to. If you need to deal with new in their consulate, this will make it much easier and faster and generally less expensive.
15. Do not spend enough on their tour. Huh?
Well, believe it or not, if not properly research your tour operator, cheap travel with their dirty tour operator who does not live up to your expectations and will not deliver as promised can end up costing more l dissatisfaction of a tour that was a little more expensive at first, but I kept his promises. You will end up feeling cheated and as you have wasted your money.
16. Do not invest in travel insurance.
Nobody wants to get sick during the trip, luggage or documents have lost an emergency or accident, or stealing something from them during the trip. But sometimes. These things are never predictable everywhere?
17. Calls way too expensive overseas,.
There are many free or inexpensive ways to communicate with people "at home" while you are on your trip. Latin America has an incredible number of cheap cafes in many areas of super costs less than a dollar an hour. Implement programs like Skype on your home computer and use them while you are here. Also, if you research the best phone cards and / or rental of mobile phone or purchase, and you can cut your budget down. You can also use Skype without a computer.
18. Bring your own cell phone.
Check before traveling if your phone will work in South America. Most of South America uses a completely different system grid and type and many many many cell phones calling many many many countries do not work here at all. So invest in a cell phone rental or purchase an international phone travel can actually save you money.
19. Not enough venture out on their own.
Some circuits are dangerous or simply too far away to make your own, but do not need a guide wherever you go. With a bit of confidence, there are many places that you can visit without guides, translators and tour operators. The same goes for those of you who are relocating to South America
20. No survey of laws on traveling with children and pets.
If you are traveling with children must have special permits and documentation, especially if only one parent is traveling with a child. Many a foreigner was sent home for not having a permit from the other parent. Not having the proper documentation for your pet can lead to high costs quarantine.
21. investigate our vacation.
One of the best ways to lose money while traveling is reached for the national or regional parties to find everything closed. While you can enjoy the holidays, you might not find a place to stay, banks or exchange offices may be closed, and you might well end the travel expenses to another place or the payment of the only hotels (highest first are the last to have vacancies).
22. Do review your Spanish.
Invest in a pair of Spanish classes, a good phrasebook Spanish travel phrases in Spanish or get FREE to your iPod or other accessory you can save money in the longrun. How? Optionally, you can avoid paying a translator (in many countries in South America guides do not speak English and other languages). In addition, you can avoid feeling trapped in the markets and shops or elsewhere to pay anything if sellers are know enough Spanish to get by. If you think you've been here for some time are more likely to expect to haggle.
23. Ignoring (or intentionally) break the law.
One way to have significant financial trouble committing a crime. Take a tour of the prison to buy cocaine is a big no-no. The purchase of illegal drugs or buying drugs or alcohol to you or anyone else anywhere is a crime. Getting into arguments or fights, attend meetings or political events, be rude to police officers, violation of private property, disorderly conduct, trying to cross the barricades, injuring another person while driving, or even if you defend a thief, anything can end up in jail. Even if you are found innocent and everything is finally clarified, it may take a lot of time and money to get out of their situation.
24. flash your money.
When traveling, keep your money in several different places at once (some in your purse, some in every pocket, etc.) in order not to bring any fluff when you have to pay for something. This will not only seem presumptuous because your provider to feel cheated if prices laid down, and to the Latin American poor horrible sense in general, is a sure way to ensure that people will immediately raise prices when the cost of something is requested. By exchanging your currency control small plane. This will get the change easier and save you money in the long run because it is not perceived as an "alien with large amounts of money that we should raise our prices."
25. staring.
This not only automatically send the message that you are a foreigner and you should pay more for things, it's also dangerous. No matter where you are and where you're going, even if you get lost, walk with a purpose, to stick to well-lit areas. Just ask the directions of police officers, shop owners, restaurants or other establishments. Looks like you're lost and you can become a target for thieves and others who may aim to divert and you might end up having to replace your belongings. Look like you know where you are going and probably discourage their activities. But you follow this advice anywhere in the world, right?
26. Carry huge cost for cameras.
Nothing screams "Tourism Coming !!!" most of the camera - and actually this is true for almost any device. South American suppliers are tourist observers teacher. They can see you coming from miles away and quickly spreads the message that you are in the neighborhood. Sellers actively rearrange their products (with the most expensive on top or even hide the cheap), and before you arrived, you've already talked to each other and are installed on the higher prices will go to both the offer. All types of cameras in a camera bag, grab your camera when you need to take your picture, put it in the bag when finished and will save a lot of money.
27. no money for emergencies are not reserved.
It's horrible to fall ill, have an accident, losing their property, or loss against theft when traveling. Blowing all your money early in your trip is not only unwise, it's dangerous. You might end up having to visit a clinic and no money. Also, have someone you wire the money to add to the coast. So do a lot of races at the beginning of your trip just means you have to cart with you (or pay for storage), while traveling.
28. The best way to pay much more than it should for just about anything: look, dress and act like a tourist.
a) Using tourist geek clothing (shirts or caps point not really look cool on anyone and anyone carrying tourists embroidered, huge mountain boots, even when walking around the city, alpaca sweaters only tourists can pay jeans are so dirty that they could fend for themselves, you get the picture).
b) Wear clothing that is not appropriate for an event or occasion. Nobody expects wear when traveling. But in restaurants, bars and clubs you can even find some do not allow to enter if you are wearing inappropriate clothing (eg, some will leave you with broken shorts or out of court, others do not allow sneakers ).
c) Speaking a foreign language all the time, do not try to use Spanish and speak loudly. Many South Americans are quite soft-spoken and quietly talking to each other in public places, buses, restaurants, etc.
You're never a stranger appears. Everyone always knows immigrant tourist or local. But if you want to save money, lower the tone.
Charis Barks grew up in Latin America since the age of four years and as an American expatriate, third culture kid and daughter of missionaries, he moved to and from several countries in South America. Growing up in the southern hemisphere has given him a unique perspective that starts now and http://www.boliviabella.com [http://www.gosouthexpat.com], a website that is based on the movement in abroad and living in abroad. Feel free to post your questions if you are considering moving to South America and if you have not already, join and post their own articles about life abroad in the forums. Expatriates and travelers from all over the continent contribute to this site by adding pages with your own tips and stories, tips and personal recommendations. The best source of information and insider tips your expatriate community in South America!
Air Travel and Luxury Vacations - How Airlines Work
In this new age of information, the concept that people can book your luxury holiday has permeated the minds of many travelers. These new trends began when airlines airline tickets available for purchase via the Internet. It revolutionized the travel industry. But buyer beware, the truth is hidden! When you think you have found the best available air, you can not get the whole story. Take a look behind the scenes of the way the ticket.
The purpose of the airline
When the time comes for you to buy your ticket if the ticket for the start of a world luxury cruise or a quick trip to visit relatives state, keep in mind that the Airline goal is that people pay a hurry. When price changes on a daily basis, airlines are trying to pressure the travelers to buy the ticket at that time. They want you to give as much as possible, as soon as possible. To apply this attitude, airlines also charge huge premiums for last minute tickets. Why? Because they can, and because the traveler will be desperate to pay for it.
The air intakes and travel agents
Now more than ever, airlines tickets are available online. Please note; although companies promise the best price of admission, they speak to that particular flight. This does not mean that all flights are available for purchase. If you are dedicated to finding the best deal on your own, you should call the airlines directly. But the best option for all luxury vacation travel and airline tickets is to call your local travel agency. You may be charged a small service charge for tickets, but can end up paying less than you would online. They will save you time and trouble to call the airline you. But there are some key terms that need to be taken into account. You can "reserve" a seat with an airline, which means it is put on hold and you have to pay for it a week before departure. The only way is to book directly with airlines and travel agencies some big names like American Express Travel.
Airlines spend millions of marketing dollars to convince you to go to their website to book airline tickets. For some travelers interested in buying cheap airline tickets to add to your living luxury travel, the Internet can be a good place to start. But airlines maintain pressure on price trends and maintain the threat of sale to try to make travelers pay as much money as quickly as possible. Use all available and directly call a travel agent or airline resources. Do not let anyone intimidate you to pay more!
The purpose of the airlineWhen the time comes for you to buy your ticket if the ticket for the start of a world luxury cruise or a quick trip to visit relatives state, keep in mind that the Airline goal is that people pay a hurry. When price changes on a daily basis, airlines are trying to pressure the travelers to buy the ticket at that time. They want you to give as much as possible, as soon as possible. To apply this attitude, airlines also charge huge premiums for last minute tickets. Why? Because they can, and because the traveler will be desperate to pay for it.
The air intakes and travel agents
Now more than ever, airlines tickets are available online. Please note; although companies promise the best price of admission, they speak to that particular flight. This does not mean that all flights are available for purchase. If you are dedicated to finding the best deal on your own, you should call the airlines directly. But the best option for all luxury vacation travel and airline tickets is to call your local travel agency. You may be charged a small service charge for tickets, but can end up paying less than you would online. They will save you time and trouble to call the airline you. But there are some key terms that need to be taken into account. You can "reserve" a seat with an airline, which means it is put on hold and you have to pay for it a week before departure. The only way is to book directly with airlines and travel agencies some big names like American Express Travel.
Airlines spend millions of marketing dollars to convince you to go to their website to book airline tickets. For some travelers interested in buying cheap airline tickets to add to your living luxury travel, the Internet can be a good place to start. But airlines maintain pressure on price trends and maintain the threat of sale to try to make travelers pay as much money as quickly as possible. Use all available and directly call a travel agent or airline resources. Do not let anyone intimidate you to pay more!
Annual Family Travel Insurance - Purchasing The Right Policy
It may seem like a waste of pay premiums to an annual family travel insurance policy when most of the time not to travel but pay for a plan on an annual basis in reality can be much cheaper than buy some insurance travel plans annually. In addition, the payment of a family of the travel insurance policy will save money on the purchase of individual travel insurance policies.
You have two types of family insurance to consider when shopping for insurance. Travel insurance can be purchased for a single trip or for a period of time. If you do not travel very often at all, it is the best deal for you. It is relatively inexpensive and is good for the period of time you are traveling. But if you have a large family or travel frequently are much better off going with an annual family travel insurance plan. These are not expensive at all and coverage, you can save a lot of money when the unexpected happens.
You only have to pay premiums for your family cheap travel insurance once a year. In fact, just buy the policy annually. So, whenever you or a family member moves, no matter where they go, which will be covered if something goes wrong on the trip. If you are traveling separately this may be even more important, will be there to look out for everyone while traveling. As you long as you keep your annual insurance company insurance family travel to be there to help take care of his family while his family moves.
This will keep your family safe. If you have a large family, this can be an incredibly affordable option, as most plans give you more discount if you buy for more people. When something goes wrong, you will be glad that your family is protected by trip annual insurance family.
Tips on What You May Need When Travelling - Travel Bags and Accessories
Traveling with luggage bag / clothing Official Travel / company
Most people prefer to fly if they are traveling for business or commercial purposes, such as participation in business meetings or going to lecture. Here you can spend one or two nights away from home, then your best option bag can be wheeled luggage bag or a messenger bag. Messenger bags and rolling bags are available in sizes ranging from 13 "to 21". Each of these travel bags lets you travel light because it can adapt to your computer in your bag. The unique design of each bag allows you to comfortably store your laptop / iPad, in addition to clothing and personal accessories in the same bag. Each bag has a luggage section for the special night that provides enough space for clothes that need during your trip. Each bag is perfect for travel / brief official business. Each type of case luggage any notebook case has required including a closure zipper workstation with storage for your mobile accessories, pens, key chains and cardholder. Silent rolling luggage bags have wheels and a telescoping handle is to roll a perfect businessman on the road companion.
Some people may prefer to travel with a bag of clothes, transportation computer bag / laptop bag or polyvalent (for women). The garment bag is perfect to protect clothing during travel. The clothes are clean and free of wrinkles. The garment bag has multiple pockets and can hold up to four garments. It has four internal pockets offer enough space for shoes and accessories such as bags Cosmetics / Makeup, toilet bags and cases hot curling iron. It also has an outside pocket where you can put the book you want to read on the plane or whatever you want to be helpful while you are on the plane. This garment bag is very stylish, lightweight and durable. Zippered central features full length gives you easy access to the interior. Also full outer zipper ensures that the entire interior of the bag is secured. When you have all you want inside the packed bag, the bag can be folded clothes in two. The bag has two double sheet handles which makes it easy to carry. It also features a pendant metal hook to hang on a wall. Then you can use your bag or multi-computer / laptop pocket to lead his team / iPad.
Some travelers prefer to travel with a travel bag. The bag has zip with three main zippered side pockets and two side pockets with velcro. It has adjustable shoulder strap and carrying handle. It also has a black linen lining which makes it ideal to clean and keep clean.
Snoozer Travel Accessories - Travel Neck Pillow / Blanket in Velura
Besides travel bags / luggage you have to pack everything you need for your trip, may consider other travel accessories like a luxury covered rest Velura neck not only gets one, easy care soft Velura 40 "x 60 'indoor coverage, but it also has an inflatable pillow that allows you to enjoy a warm and comfortable journey. PVC inflatable pillow is easy to inflate and deflate and coverage is so soft that it folds easily back into the pillowcase. This snoozer-travel Neck Pillow / Blanket Article Velura is a travel compact, easy to carry that can be used to provide comfort for you on any trip. This travel accessory is ideal for business or leisure.
What you may need when you go on vacation with the family
Many families choose to travel by road during a family vacation; Traveling together in a car is part of the experience close to the family that appreciates each family and long-term for each year. Preparation for the long journey of the family of the experience can be a new challenge for parents, especially when the journey involves very young children. The idea of how to keep them engaged and entertained throughout the long journey can also be intimidating.
It's not rocket science to say that you need to pack suitcases and family clothing needs during the holidays, the challenge is what kind of bag do you need. Need a bag for everyone in the family or if you need clothes around the world in a common bag? Depending on the number in the family and the age of your children, you can have a common bag for clothing and one for accessories. Alternatively, each child can pack his / accessories in his / her backpack while having a common case for everyone. In another arrangement, you can let everyone in the family use a bag of clothes to pack two / her clothes and accessories. This is one of the parents "bittersweet" to make choices.
Use a thermal conditioning cooler bag quite cold drinks for everyone on the trip
Depending on the duration of the trip, you can travel with enough cold beverages packaged in a cold thermal bag. The thermal liner bag maintained beverages absorption cold heat as such, cold beverages remain for a very long time. The idea is that you buy more cold drinks whenever a family member wants something cold to drink. Have enough refreshments on hand when you need it gives you enough driving time and also allows you to stop only when necessary to break the journey for nothing other than simply buy some cold drinks.
Get your kids comfortable with children Travel Accessories
In addition to having sufficient practical drinks anyone in need during the trip, but can also be a challenge to keep children comfortable during a long journey. You can keep your child comfortable during the whole trip travel accessories allow the use of children as traveling companions. Fellow Children are ultra soft neck pillows that allow children to snuggle with your partner while "visiting the land of dreams!" Those friends that are available in different animal characters are perfect for strollers, car and anywhere else let children sleep.
Scosche Backstage Pro II vehicle assembly for Tablet PC
In addition to providing cold drinks for their children when they need and make the (children) at home while they sleep during the trip, keep children engaged during the trip is another challenge. Some parents allow their children to read books while traveling, and play their video games when you are tired of reading. These are good ways to keep your children engaged. Another way is to watch videos / movies on the iPad while driving. In this case, the pro II is well suited scenes. Use the Backstage Pro II secure and robust mount your iPad 2 on the back of the headrest so that your children can enjoy a viewing of movies, applications, games handsfree while driving. This device is ideal for keeping your family easily entertained when you're on a long trip. Pro II scenes has a charger that plugs directly into the mounting headrest and provides continuous charging your iPad 2. It has an infrared wireless headphones for private listening and a USB port that supports the use flash player to view the images.
Official Tibet Travel Guide - Must-See for Beginners (Part 1)
1. How is the climate in Tibet? It is hot in the summer? It is very cold in winter?
Tibet is located on a high plateau, and belongs to typical fluffy particular climate. The climates are very different in different parts of Tibet. Eastern Tibet which is at a lower height is hotter than western Tibet. In some mountain areas, there are four stations simultaneously at different heights. Time in a day also varies greatly. The night is cold, when the day is hot. It is 12 to 15 degrees Celsius in a single day.
The climate in southern Tibet including Nyingchi and Chamdo is mild with an average temperature of eight degrees Celsius; while in western Tibet (Shigatse and Nagqu) is quite cold, with temperatures below zero.
However, in central Tibet, Lhasa Tsedang climate is more favorable for traveling. Travelers can visit both areas throughout the year, not too hot in summer and too cold in winter.
2. How is the state of the road in the rainy season in Tibet? I need to take any rainproof me?
The rainy season in Tibet is mainly from June to August and it has a very negative impact on the roads. However, many workers and keep track of the local army, which also give help to restore the roads. Overall, it takes only a few hours to do it again realistic way. As the rain test, we advise you to take coats, pants and waterproof shoes if you like walking, climbing or mountain biking. If you have group tours organized by some travel agencies, usually you do not take raincoat with you because Tibet often rains at night and the weather is good during the day. In addition, the tour bus is always with you.
3. What is the best time to travel to Tibet?
Overall, early April is the beginning of the travel season, which lasts until mid-June, when a large number of Chinese travelers to Tibet to rush to the summer holidays. In late June to late national holiday is the peak travel season, when some major festivals in Tibet, as Shoton Festival, Gyantse and Nagqu riding Dawa Festival. After mid-October, Tibet becomes winter and how heavily discounted visitors, more than half of the hotels are closed for the poor booking.
As for the best time to travel, it depends on your travel needs.
1. If you want a very cheap price, go to Tibet in winter, from December to March. All things are fairly cheap; tourist sites even offer a discount of 30-50% on the entry. The hotels are cheap, too. You can enjoy 5-star hotels with less than 100USD including breakfast. Compared with the trip in August, the cost of a winter tour is only 50% -60% of a summer tour. Due to the poor number of visitors, the Potala Palace, you can even spend a day in it. In addition, the monks are busy and do not have time to talk to you.
2. If you like hiking, do it in May or September, when the monsoon mind and the weather is mild and pleasant.
3. If you like Mt.Everest and see the bright face of it, try to avoid the rainy season and fog.
4. If you want to visit the grass of the land in the north of Tibet, to tour in July when the flowers bloom in vast grasslands and groups yak and sheep, tents of Tibetan nomads spread across the prairie .
5. Those who want to drive to Tibet by the Sichuan-Tibet Highway to avoid the rainy season. There will mudslides, landslides and mud on some sections of the road, blocking the passage of vehicles.
About altitude sickness
1. What is altitude sickness? What are the symptoms of altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness can occur at high altitudes (over 2700m), due to the reduced availability of oxygen. It usually occurs after a rapid rise and can usually avoid growing slowly. Symptoms often appear six to ten hours after the rise and usually disappear within a day or two, but sometimes they become more serious conditions. Common symptoms of altitude sickness include shortness of breath, headache, fatigue, disease of the stomach, dizziness and sleep disorders.
2. How to avoid or alleviate altitude sickness?
Maintaining a good mood, do not get too excited or too worried about altitude sickness. Before visiting Tibet, is as healthy as possible, both physically and psychologically.
Take care of yourself and avoid catching cold before going to Tibet, and not take a shower in the first two days after you are in Lhasa to avoid being cold, or suffer from low easily altitude sickness weak physical condition.
Do not drink alcohol in the first two days when you are in Tibet. Drink lots of water and eat foods rich in carbohydrates Energy more light.
No running, jumping or doing work from tax in the first two days. Be calm and have a good rest is important.
Once you have the symptoms of altitude sickness, taking medicine (it is said that it is useful to have a little butter tea if you can fit the taste of it) and do not go above. Drugs and oxygen also help prevent altitude sickness. The symptoms of mild altitude sickness can be treated with appropriate medicines. If drugs and oxygen do not relieve symptoms, go to hospital or immediately evacuate to a safe altitude!
Oxygen can help relieve the symptoms of altitude sickness, but we did not use very often in Lhasa, while the symptoms of altitude sickness are not serious. If you feel cold or uncomfortable, you should go to the nearest available hospital in the region.
In addition to normal driving drugs is advisable to bring high-altitude medicine. Get suggestions from your doctor.
Tell your guide quickly if you do not feel well and follow the advice in the guide.
3. What should I do if I have altitude sickness after coming to Tibet?
There are hospitals in many major cities in Tibet. It can be adapted to mild altitude slowly and can go to the hospital if it is severe. After you have had altitude sickness, should rest well and do not move too much, keep eating, drinking some water with black sugar or take medication. If altitude sickness is serious enough, you should go to the hospital or down to some lower places, or leave Lhasa immediately. Altitude sickness should disappear and return to a certain height and has no symptoms on.
4. is more severe altitude sickness if you fly to Tibet by train?
Exactly, but two ways have their advantages and disadvantages. You are more likely to have altitude sickness, because you do not have sufficient time to adapt to the environment is gradually stabilizing have if you're flying. The elevation change is directly from several hundred meters to over 3000 meters. So if you go to Tibet by train, you can adapt your body to stabilize slowly and gradually environment. Then you can relieve or avoid altitude sickness.
5. People with this type of disease can not go to Tibet? Do I have physical practice before going to Tibet?
People with the following conditions can not travel to Tibet:
People with all kinds of organic heart disease, severe arrhythmia or heart rate at rest for 100per minute, high blood pressure II or higher, all kinds of blood diseases and cerebrovascular disease.
People with chronic diseases of the respiratory system, the average degree of obstructive or previous lung diseases such as bronchial dilatation, emphysema and so on.
People with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, hysteria, epilepsy and schizophrenia.
People with colds, upper respiratory infections, and body temperature above or below 38F 38F while the whole body and the respiratory system have obvious symptoms, is not recommended to travel to Tibet up well.
People who have been diagnosed with polycythemia have high altitude pulmonary edema high altitude, high altitude cerebral edema, hypertension apparent increase in pressure altitude of blood pressure, heart disease and high altitude.
Pregnant women at high risk.
If you are unsure of your physical condition, you may have a physical exam. But are not expected to do more exercise before going to Tibet for the year will give more charges to your heart and you need more oxygen, which can easily cause altitude sickness.
6. Why do not people with cold, see the Tibet? What should I do if I catch a cold in Tibet?
Your immune system will be weak if you catch a cold and could easily suffer altitude sickness because of it. In addition, extreme cold can easily be converted to some more serious high altitude diseases, including pulmonary edema, which is very dangerous. So not supposed to travel to Tibet before they have a cold.
Well, if you catch a cold in Tibet, things may not be so serious, because your body has already, to some extent, to adapt to the plateau environment and can go to a doctor and take pharmaceuticals
Permits and certificates
1. Are there any limitations or restrictions on foreign travel to Tibet? What about overseas Chinese, compatriots from Taiwan and Hong Kong and Macao compatriots? How to manage and how long will it take?
There are some special requirements for foreign travelers to Tibet. First, foreign tourists in Tibet should be organized by travel agencies, with confirmed course. Second, Tibet Travel Permit issued by Tibet Tourism Bureau is essential. The Tibet Travel Permit must be obtained before going to Tibet. Moreover, foreigners can not travel alone to Tibet on their own, even with the travel permit. They must be accompanied by a licensed guide. Tibet Entry Permit is also required for Chinese and Taiwan compatriots abroad, while Hong Kong and Macao compatriots can travel to Tibet a Chinese citizen with a valid return authorization Home. Foreigners, Chinese and Taiwanese compatriots abroad can apply for a travel permit to Tibet Tibet Tourism Bureau or certain travel agencies qualified valid passport (copies) visa (copies) and work certificate. Usually you can get 2-3 days a week and if you are in urgent need.
2. What is allowed entry to Tibet? How to obtain a permit to enter Tibet and what documents are needed to get it?
Tibet entry permit, also known as the Tibet Tourism Bureau (TTB) permit or Visa Tibet, is the basic document for foreign travelers entering Tibet. No foreign visitor can visit Tibet without holding the Tibet Entry Permit in his hands. Foreign tourists are required to show both his Chinese visa and Tibet Entry Permit, boarding passes to fly on trains or modify Tibet Tibet.
Tibet entry permit is officially published by the Tibet Tourism Bureau, to limit the number of foreign visitors. With this authorization, foreign tourists can travel in the region, including the city of Lhasa, Yamdrok Lake, Ganden, Tsurphu, Namtso, Drigung Til and Reting.
Entry permit to Tibet is not available for independent travelers. Foreign travelers must travel in group tour and ask legitimate travel agency tour of Tibet apply to you.
Documents required:
You can get a visa to Tibet (TTB permit) by sending a travel agency describes the first page of your valid passport and Chinese visa copy of your fax or email, and clearly indicate their occupations (the foreign journalists and diplomats are not allowed to go to Tibet as a tourist). If you are Taiwan compatriots, send copies of their MTP-continental travel permit or travel document called Taiwan compatriot permit / entrance (commonly known as "Tai Bao Zheng"), and tell us your profession.
If you are from Hong Kong and Macao, China re-entry permit for Hong Kong and Macao compatriots is enough to travel to Tibet. You are not required to seek permission from Tibet.
Please note: If you plan to travel to places officially closed to foreigners in Tibet Travel Permit is required for a foreigner.
3. What is the travel permit for aliens?
Unless authorized in Tibet Travel Permit of a foreign entry is required if you plan to travel to places officially closed to foreigners in Tibet as Mount Everest, Rongbuk Monastery, Mount Kailash and Lake Manasorovar. Travel Permit abroad is not necessary for places in the Lhasa area, Shigatse and Tsetang villages, or travel without stopping on the road of friendship.
"Travel Permit ALLIENS is necessary to visit the" unopened areas. Who is issued by the police (Public Security Bureau, "PSB"). In general, you can apply once you arrive in Lhasa. For tourists groups our guide will ask permission TTB passport and submit to the Division of External Relations of travel permit PSB. Usually it takes several hours and the cost is 50 RMB / person. If you are a traveler is required joining local tours in areas' unopen and local agencies to organize the PSB also travel for you. be careful, there is a travel agency can offer a "PSB-single permit" service.
Important: If you want to take a tour of Yunnan Tibet Earth, Sichuan, Qinghai and Xinjiang to Tibet, you got the PSB permit before starting your journey.
4. What are the parts of Tibet are listed as closed areas?
Today, you must apply for a permit to travel if you are planning to visit the following locations: Tsedang: Samye Monastery, Tibetan King tomb monastery Trundruk, YumbulakhangShigatse: Sakya Monastery, Mt. Everest, MonasteryGyangtse Rongbuk Monastery and Pelkor Chode Kubum StupaNgari region: Mount Kailash, Lake Manasarovar, Tsaparang, year, etc. Nyingchi Region: Basum-tso, Pomi, Rawo-tso, etc.Chamdo Region: Chamdo Riwoqe, Tengchen, etc.
5. Are there other certificates and permits may be required to Tibet?
Except entry permit to Tibet Travel Permit for foreigners, it lawful military of Foreign Affairs of permits and other approvals that may be required when traveling to Tibet.
Sensitive border are as such as Mount Kailash and eastern Tibet also require a military leave and leave foreign affairs. For Tholing and Tsaparang in western Tibet also require a permit from the Department of Antiquities of the local culture. All these will be organized by our travel agency a month before entering Tibet. The permit is issued by the military foreign troops any case the authorization is issued by the Foreign Office in Lhasa. Normally takes 10-15 working days to get them all.
6. How to deal with the visa of Tibet in Nepal? Can I apply for a visa to Nepal to Lhasa? Is it fast? I deny?
Nepal has two embassies in China: one in Beijing and the other in Lhasa. It is easier and more convenient to manage Nepal to Lhasa visa, provided they comply with certain procedures. And there are rarely any refusal. But visa officers do not work in regular time, we recommend to stay several days in Lhasa to apply visa for Nepal and is more assured if you handle visa for the first time after his arrival in Lhasa. The Consulate General of Nepal in Lhasa, near the Norbulingka Park. Normally you can get the visa in the afternoon the next business day if you submit the application and required documents on the morning of the first day. The deadline for filing is 10:00 to 0:00, Monday through Friday. So you need to plan a few days in Lhasa to wait for the visa. Time to get the visa is usually 16 hours, once the visa, you can fly to Kathmandu or statements of Zhangmu border by car or bus.
To apply for a visa to Nepal to Lhasa, prepare the original passport, 2 passport size copies and fill out a form. Your passport must be valid for at least the next six months. There are three types of visas according to the time plan to stay in Neal, 15 days, 30 days and three months. If you stay more than 15 days in Nepal, it is best to get the visa in Lhasa, the border office issued 15 days visa and is relatively expensive to extend the visa in Kathmandu or Gorkaha.
You can also get a visa at the border of Nepal. Not far from the bridge of friendship, you can obtain a visa for your stay 15 days in the office borders 25 USD. It is necessary to prepare a passport photo size, and fill out a form so.
What to bring:
1. What medications to take when traveling to Tibet?
In the first days after arrival in Tibet, you may experience some degree of altitude reaction. Colds, insomnia and digestive problems are common. Take an adequate supply of any prescription medication you use regularly, including medicine for cold, headache, stomach pain, and insect bites, diarrhea and so on, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, antibiotics, pills throat, nasal decongestant and vitamins, etc. The most over-the-counter medications such as aspirin and anti-diarrhea pills are available in Lhasa, but are more difficult to obtain outside urban areas. We recommend taking anti-motion sickness altitude to address the lack of oxygen. Diamox pills are believed to be able to effectively prevent the disease in height. Please consult your doctor before you travel to Tibet.
2. What are the foods to be taken when traveling to Tibet? You can take a little chocolate, beef jerky, hot pickled mustard tuber, cookies and other foods and snacks that you like. You better eat foods rich in calories. You can also take a chewing gum with you, which can help relieve the symptoms of syrigmus and headaches. When traveling in remote areas of Tibet is a good idea to bring food, snacks and drinking water. It is not always easy to find food or drinking water in these areas. Water purification equipment such as hand pump filter is not necessary, as bottled water and water heater shell is available everywhere in Tibet. Water purification tablets may be helpful during the trek. It's a good idea to take a good quality multivitamin to supplement their diet from a supply of vegetables and fruits can not be easily accessible.
3. The raw materials needed to take when traveling to Tibet needs: Card sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, skin cream, lipstick, clothing with long sleeves, sweaters, visa, passport, money, credit, camera, film, batteries, toiletries, cosmetics, knife, clock, day backpack, large travel bags (soft luggage), water bottle, magazine, reading materials books, binoculars, family photos and written sandwiches.
4. What kind of clothes and shoes must be taken when traveling to Tibet?
clothing
Temperatures vary greatly in the highlands. In the northern part of Tibet, people wear thick coats all year (including July and August are the hottest months in most parts of China). The highest temperature is 4-5 degrees Celsius in northern Tibet. Snow also in July and August.
The temperature difference in a day is greater. Lhasa, the temperature reached July 30 degrees Celsius during the day, but falls to 10 degrees Celsius at night. Sometimes it snow or sleet in the evening, so you'd better take a little lower garments (those with hats best), wool sweaters, warm gloves, warm shoes and windproof and socks . The use of multiple layers of clothing that can be easily added or removed is the smart choice that temperatures can vary considerably in one day.
Most hotels in Tibet have no central heating. The air conditioning in the individual rooms do not work well in the cold night. In winter, from November to next March, of course, you need to bring down jackets, sweaters, gloves, warm trousers, wool hats. Very cold in the morning and evening. In summer, wearing a shirt in the day, but the jacket is required for the hotel in the morning and evening.
During the high season, April, May, September and October, you need to prepare sweatshirts, coats, jeans, warm sweaters. In addition, frequent rains this season makes waterproof clothing and rain absolute necessities.
Even in summer, a down coat is necessary for those traveling beyond Lhasa and Shigatse in remote areas like Everest Camp. A jacket over a sweater will work fine for walking Lhasa in the summer.
Other essentials to pack include four or five pairs of cotton or wool underwear, four or five pairs of wool socks, cotton long sleeve shirts or wool and light shirts. Women should avoid skirts or dresses.
In addition, each time you visit Tibet, if your plan includes one night for Everest and Lake Namtso, or a hike of several days outdoors in the mountain area of the camp to keep warm is very important. Winter clothes are a must. However, do not worry too much on clothes, you can buy the clothes you have in Lhasa and the clothes are very cheap.
shoes
It is very important to have a strong comfortable pair of boots, particularly in the coverage area of your remote control and you have to walk a long distance. For example, if you reach the base of Mount Everest, you need to cover 8 km EBC rongpuk Monastery and back to camp trip. Lightweight shoes are fine, but Tibet can be wet and make extensive walking, so make sure your shoes fit well and are suitable for cold and puddles. You must also have a pair of comfortable and durable sandals.
5. What certificates and documents should I bring with me when I travel in Tibet?
Of course, you must have your passport, visa and China Tibet travel permit with you. Or, you will not be allowed even to get on the train or plane.
In general, there are four required documents for foreign tourists to travel freely in Tibet:
Chinese visa - can be applied to the Chinese Embassy in your country;
Tibet entry permit - is published by the Tibet Tourism Bureau and is a must for foreigners entering Tibet;
Travel Permit: It is necessary when you plan to closed areas in Tibet, and can be obtained on arrival in Tibet
Military leave - you need if you plan to visit some sensitive military areas.
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