More about this expedition to Mexico in a future feature article series on Globetrooper but lets say we are travel blogging here and there as far as the patchy hotel wi-fi permits, all great fun and a world away from the office back home.

There are some pretty cool and original trip ideas listed on Globetrooper this week, it is clear that a lot of people are taking their 2012 travel plans and aspirations very seriously indeed and hope to find some equally serious travel partners along the way!

Some of the trip ideas that piqued our curiosity this time around across the site include exciting travel propositions to distant New Zealand, Thailand and a rather unique trip idea that takes travelers trekking around the Albanian Alps in Eastern Europe.

Travel to New Zealand in 2012

Globetrooper user ‘Noodles’ is hoping to visit New Zealand in October 2012 and is looking for travel partners from the UK. Check out the lowdown on the trip.

I am going traveling In October 2012. Going to find fun and adventure where ever I can.

I am looking for like minded people from the United Kingdom. Anyone wanting to come along will have to be able to meet up a few times in the UK and get to know each other before departure. Learn more about this trip.

Thailand in Winter

User Julianna is planning a trip to Thailand in late 2012, she is trying to find travel partners who might enjoy such a trip to Asia. This is what she had to say about the trip idea.

I am planning on touring Thailand the first week or so then a yoga retreat the second week.
I have friends who have been here before and I will use their recommendations on where to go.

I have heard that it is better to book hotels when you are there and able to look at the room first.
I would like to travel with people who are responsible but want to have fun. Find out more about this trip.

Trekking in the Albanian Alps

One of the more adventurous trip ideas that caught our eye is a guided tour proposal from Globetrooper user Migen.

For a unique hiking experience try trekking in the Albanian Alps

For any users that feel like hiking in the Albania pastures and seeing the rural life in Albania this could be a trip of great interest, take a look at the trip lowdown.

The Alpine Pastures offer one of the least explored paths of the Albanian mountains.

Used not so often by peasant families during communism is considered a hidden unspoiled area.
As we walk through these gorgeous mountains we will be accommodated in the peasant’s alpine huts.

The local cuisine and hospitality is particularly interesting in the end of a long day. Discover more about this guided tour to Albania.

Plan an Adventure Trip or Create a Bespoke Travel Idea

This is just a small selection of the exciting trips created by our users now available to join listed on Globetrooper. As always it is very easy to create a bespoke trip idea and let travel partners from all over the world find you.

Make sure you list a trip in plenty of time to allow groups to form and adequate travel and contact information about the trips to be passed to all who have expressed interest in the trip idea. Create your perfect trip right now.

The seasons provide a fresh change from the days of summer with their seemingly endless days of sunshine and warmth to the days of winter and their blankets of ice and snow. Perhaps the best way to tour Helsinki is to acquire a Helsinki card, available in durations of 24, 48, and 72 hours.

With this card, you gain free entrance into museums and other sights, have access to unlimited public transportation, as well as a few other perks.

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The Helsinki card for tourists and visitors comes with a guidebook and map of the city.  It also includes discounts for various sightseeing tours, events, and the airport bus.

The Helsinki Expert Guided City Tour

The Helsinki Expert Guided City Tour, available in both Swedish and English, begins at the Olympia Terminal.

Enjoy the Remarkable City of Helsinki in Finland

This 1 hour and 45 minute tour takes sightseers to the most interesting parts of Helsinki including the Senate Square, Opera House, Temppeliaukio Church, and the Presidential Palace.

You can also tour Helsinki from the comfort of a double-decker bus. Perks of this tour include the following: available in 8 languages, ticket valid for a full 24 hours, unlimited getting on and off the bus during the ticket’s time of validity.

Other tours of Helsinki exist, including tours of many of the establishments that are located in the city.

What to See and Do in Helsinki

Something is always happening here, in Helsinki, including concerts, cultural events, and artistic exhibitions.  Throughout the year, this city hosts various concerts, celebrations, fun runs, recitals, contests, and more that will appeal to any visitor to the city.

A list of some of the most popular sights to see and things to do in the city of Helsinki are included below.

The Helsinki Zoo

The Helsinki Zoo is home to an eclectic variety of animals that range from those who originate in the tropical rain forest to those that come from the arctic tundra.

It is also home to rare animals that come to the zoo from all over the globe; from the lush tropical rain forests of south America and ranging to those of the icy cold arctic tundra.

At least two hundred animal species can be found at the zoo along with almost one thousand varieties of plants.

It is open seven days a week, though the hours vary. Find out more about visiting the zoo in Helsinki.

Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma

The Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma is home to contemporary art, special exhibitions, and performances in dance, drama, music, film, and more. It is closed on Mondays.
Sea Life Helsinki features an amazing opportunity to step inside a giant ocean tank filled with crabs, sharks, starfish, rays, and more through a transparent tunnel.  It is open seven days a week.

Senate Square in Helsinki

Senate Square is a delightful conglomeration of four buildings designed with neoclassic architecture and dating back to the early to middle 1800s.

The buildings in the square include the Government Palace, Helsinki Cathedral, the National Library of Finland, and the main building of the University of Helsinki. Find out more about what to see and do in Senate Square.

Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress

Suomenlinna Maritime Fortress, one of the worlds largest, dates back to 1748.  Open year round, no entrance fee to the park, and a multi vision show are only some of the highlights of this sea fortress.

Linnanski Amusement Park

Linnanski Amusement Park Despite all of the modern rides that range from scary and exciting to tame and pleasant, the wooden roller coaster is still a crowd pleaser.

Games, entertainment, arcade halls, and more add to the day’s fun that can be had here. If you like theme parks be sure to drop by.

Helsinki Museums

National Museum of Finland showcases a portrayal of Finnish history with numerous artifacts and collections.

The Ateneum Art Museum has Finland’s largest collection of art. Pieces include Finnish works of art from the 1750s all the way up to the 1960s.

Western art is also showcased from the time period between the 1800s and the 1950s. It is closed on Mondays.

Also visit the National Museum of Finland which showcases a portrayal of Finnish history with numerous artifacts and collections.

Churches and Cathedrals

Uspenski Orthodox Cathedral, located in the Katajanokka section of Helsinki, dates back to 1868.  It is a magnificent structure with golden cupolas, red bricks, and more.

The design of the cathedral clearly shows an influence from the Russians.
Temppeliaukio Church, is a must see on any travelers list.  An amazing church, carved from stone and bedrock, it showcases many concerts due to its amazing acoustics.

The Globetrooper View

Helsinki might date back to 1550, but it has a lot of modern conveniences to offer modern day travelers along with a taste of its historical past.

If planning a trip to Helsinki in Finland be sure to plan several days for touring this magnificent city that offers a multitude of interesting and cultural sights to see.

Why not create a bespoke trip to Helsinki in Finland and find travel partners with the Globetrooper trip wizard, creating a trip is free, fun and simple to accomplish.

At the station named Gesundbrunnen, you can take a tour through the green door and into the underground bunkers that were used to avoid air raids from the World Wars and onwards. The bunker rooms are dank and claustrophobic with low ceilings and thin air. There are old tubes from the pneumatic dispatch system, remnants from underground breweries, a railway cart that was used by the Trümmerfrauen (rubble women) to move debris to special rubbish hills after WWII.

As you can imagine, a tour of the bunkers gives you a bitter taste of what it was like to live in East Berlin during the city’s most tumultuous times.

If you are interested in any of these trips you can join Globetrooper for free and engage with other travelers seeking travel partners.

Peruvian Adventure Trails

Tiff from Canada is planning to visit Peru and various other countries in South America.

Enjoy the Peruvian AdventureTrails

Hey adventurers! I’m looking for some travel partners to join me on a trip around Peru!

It’s next on my list! I’d love to share the experience of hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, seeing the unique wildlife of the Amazon, and exploring the food and culture of the Peruvian people.

I’m an experienced traveler and I’m always up for great fun and adventure. Learn more about this exciting south American trip.

Journey the Trans Siberian Highway

Mike is looking for travel partners for his trip.

Following the Trans Siberian Highway, means starting from St. Petersburg and going all the way to Vladivostok.

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The travel plan says that we travel on a motor home. Get in touch with Mike to discuss the arrangements.

Drive Through Europe

Mohamed is looking for travel partners to accompany him across Europe in the summer of 2012. I am planning my dream trip to Europe next summer.

I am thinking of driving from Amsterdam to Madrid through Belgium,Luxembourg,Germany, Switzerland, Italy and France .
I am very open about the dates. Learn more about the trip.

Post Your Own Trip on Globetrooper

Just a selection of the new trips posted on Globetrooper this week, why not post your own or join in with existing travel plans using the trip creation wizard.

It’s exhilarating to drink in the lavish, extravagant visual displays, sounds and smells that come at you on a non-stop basis.

However, the constant flashing lights, the ching-ching of the slot machines and the scent of cigarettes and air freshener in the casinos can quickly overload the senses.

Vegas is a busy, bustling frenzy of human activity that attracts visitors from across the world but there is far more to see in the US state of Nevada than the city of Las Vegas.

Move Away From the Glitz of Vegas

The Nevada city of Las Vegas maybe a sparkling light in the desert for some but there is plenty more to see in Nevada.

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If you have a day or even a half day with no plans and want to enjoy the beauty of southern Nevada, step off the strip for a bit and renew your adventurous spirit and thirst for something new.

Take a close look at these essential pit stops for tourists visiting southern Nevada. Interesting places to visit that are a short, scenic drive from Las Vegas yet a world away in every other aspect.

Fire State Park Nevada

The Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, is located fifty-five miles northeast of Las Vegas in the town of Overton.

Fire State Park in Nevada is a Remarkable Place to Experience

The unusual scenery found in the area makes this park a popular spot for filming movies. Scenes in famous television and theatrical productions such as The Professionals, Total Recall, and Star Trek Generations were shot here.

There are two entrance stations to Fire State Park which are unattended but have a self-pay system in place and directions to the full-scale visitor center.

Fire State Park Video Gallery

See the park for yourself, take a look at why Fire State Park appeals to adventurers and hikers who arrive in Nevada from all over the world.

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Support the park upkeep and pay the suggested donation amount; the amazing sights and scenery that you experience will be well worth it.

Once at the park visitor center you will be able to talk to a helpful park attendant to have any questions answered and receive a map showing the different trails that lead around Fire State Park.

Be warned, these trails are not typical rock or dirt trails; they are made of red sand which will find its way into your shoes, so fasten them up tightly and leave the sandals at home.

How long you want to hike will certainly depend on when you visit. The weather in the winter can be quite mild; temperatures range from freezing to seventy-five degrees during that time of year.

Watch the Nevada Desert Highs

Daily summer highs usually exceed one hundred degrees and can reach one hundred twenty.

The sand is said to get so hot during the summer the heat can be felt intensely through your shoes, so that might be the time to choose shorter hiking routes with frequent water and rest stops.

Find out more about visiting Fire State Park on the government web site.

The Petroglyph Canyon

Along the Petroglyph Canyon trail the 3,000 year-old drawings are easy to spot. If you only have the opportunity to visit one area, this is an amazing site to see and an easy walk.

If you’re up for a bit of a climb, visit White Domes trail. The stone formations are amazing. Find out more about hiking in this canyon.

The park brochure states that rock climbing is limited to specific areas, so for those who can’t resist seeing what’s at the top, hike up one of the larger boulder formations to glimpse a panoramic view of the countryside.

Though the park itself closes at sunset, stay in the area a bit longer to witness the myriad of stars that can be seen in abundance in a sky that’s free from light pollution, this is a perfect spot for fans of star gazing to see the night sky above.

This gorgeous park is well worth the drive from Las Vegas, even for a short visit.

Camping, RV camping and picnicking facilities are available if you’re able to spend more time in this delightful spot.

Visit Mount Charleston

An even closer getaway is Mount Charleston, or the Spring Mountains National Recreation area, located in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest.

Rising to 11,918 feet, Charleston Peak is the third highest in the state and the only peak in southern Nevada that rises above forest timberline.

The Road to Mount Charleston in Nevada

There are fifty-one miles of trails in the Spring Mountains, as well as picnic areas, campgrounds, RV camping facilities and a ski resort.

Places to Stay Near Mount Charleston

Even if you just want to get away for a scenic meal, it’s worth the trip to visit Mount Charleston Lodge, which sits at 7,717 feet above sea level and is a thirty- five-minute drive from the Las Vegas strip.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks are served there, including World Famous Mt. Charleston Coffee, and a Mt. Charleston Mudslide.

This area is a favorite cool-down getaway for the locals in the summer and a good place to play in the snow in the winter.

If you can sneak away from your Vegas hotel room, stay for a night at The Resort on Mount Charleston. Yes, you can still gamble there, but you can also visit the spa, have a drink and a meal, or just sit slack-jawed and marvel at the view.

Unless you’re used to this scenery, the landscape is spectacular and will take your breath away.

This peaceful environment is a nice contrast to the sometimes overbearing atmosphere of The Las Vegas Strip which is typically a frenzy of busy people, lights, casino and enormous hotels.

The Globetrooper View

A little nature break away from the hustle and bustle can be a wonderful way to relax, renew and refresh before jumping back into the flash and glitz of Las Vegas.

There is More to see in the State of Nevada Than Just The Las Vegas Strip

Most visitors to Vegas probably don’t even realize that there is so much more to do in Nevada and that Vegas isn’t Nevada, there really is more in what is a actually a very large state.

Nevada is great for hikers, nature lovers and rock climbing enthusiasts so the state adventure trails are well worth a closer look.

Just keep an eye on the climate as temperatures can soar to uncomfortable highs during parts of the year.

Be certain to place exploring wider Nevada on your list of things to do when visiting the area.

Plan Your Adventure Trip to Nevada

Globetroopers who feel drawn to experience Nevada can join existing trips to the state of Nevada by following current expeditions.

Or you can propose bespoke trips and wait for other adventurers to join as travel partners and see all the state has to offer together.

Create a trip to Southern Nevada using the Globetrooper Trip Wizard.

Related Southern Nevada Videos

Enjoy these related videos which offer extra insight into hiking and adventuring in Nevada ( besides Las Vegas that is. )

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It’s also been remarked that the Balinese are among the most gracious and cultured people on earth. As soon as you arrive on Balinese soil prepare to step into an exciting new world of adventure, culture and exploration.When you first get to the airport at Bali, the Ngurah Rai Airport, commonly referred to as Denpasar International Airport, in Southern Bali you’ll notice the calm pace and the broad smiles on everyone you meet.

To best enjoy your trip to the island whether for relaxation or adventure exploration, it’s a good idea to inform yourself of a few essential pieces of useful travel information before you arrive in Bali.

Local Currency in Bali

When exchanging your money for the local currency, you’ll want to ask for larger notes. One-thousand Indonesian rupiahs equal less than one dollar (or 0.116077 USD, as per the currency exchange).

The notes come in 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000 versions. Be careful to count the notes carefully when exchanging your foreign currency.

Refuse to be rushed by anyone during your stay since Bali is a long way from home for most visitors take your time dealing with personal finances..

Why Visit Bali in Indonesia?

A trip to Bali is a perfect location for restful recuperation, adventure traveling or a combination of both. The rich indulgent scenery has to be seen in the flesh to be properly appreciated.

The Beaches of Bali

Bali is home to impressive beaches with lush forests and vegetation. The island is a great place to relax or enjoy adventure pursuits. Check out some of the beaches.

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In Bali rugged hills, waterfalls and exotic beaches await the intrepid traveler. For those who like to roam long distance Bali is the ideal location, either as part of a single trip or as a multi destination port of call.

Recommended Hotels and Places to Stay

There are many hotels in Bali that cater to a luxury affluent style of visitor on a relaxing vacation but it is equally possible to find inexpensive accommodation and low cost apartments or travel hostels suitable for backpackers, water sports enthusiasts and the like.

Luxury Bali Hotel Accommodation and Resorts

Take a close look at our accommodation selection and recommendations, we have selected some options at each end of the price scale.

Then depending what kind of traveler you are you can book your bed!

Le Grand Bali Resort Hotel

Le Grand Bali

A recommended hotel destination in Bali for those wanting some luxury but not too stuffy either.

The hotel Le Grande is a modern and stylish resort hotel with well designed, luxurious and spacious accommodation. Le Grande has 60 suites and 130 deluxe rooms available to visitors ensuring both comfort and style.

Le Grande Suites sits at the very center of the New Kuta locale in Bali and is a great base for relaxing or adventuring. Find out more about staying at the Le Grand Bali.

The Bulgari Hotel Bali

The Bulgari Resort and Hotel

The 59-villa Bulgari Resort Bali brings the style of two unique regions together and combines traditional Balinese design while preserving the distinctive Bulgari Italian style.

The garden and interior walls are constructed from the finest natural stone with refined bangkiray hardwood in the hotel villas.

The hotel designers at the Bulgari Resort have used natural green colored subakumi stone to clad outdoor showers and swimming pools creating a unique accommodation experience for travelers visiting the hotel. Find out more about this hotel.

The Conrad Hotel Bali

The Conrad Hotel Bali

The luxury Conrad Bali hotel is presented within 6.8 hectares of well tended, tropical gardens and crystal clear turquoise lagoons matched with cascading waterfalls and tranquil water pools that gracefully descend onto the hotel’s wide expanse of white sandy beach and protected inlet.

Conrad Bali offers guests a dull range of facilities includes a 33-metre swimming pool, for athletes and exercise aficionados a jogging track with landscaped gardens plus a broad range of water and beach sports.

The Conrad hotel also features a group of floodlit tennis courts to practice your game and a modern Fitness Center and the luxury Jiwa Spa for peaceful relaxation and sensual treatments. Discover more about the Conrad hotel in Bali.

Budget Accommodation for Adventure Travelers

Green Garden Hotel

The Green Garden hotel is one of Bali’s premier budget hotels and offers travelers to the island quality service, great value for money and a prime location suitable for all kinds of activities.

The unique selling point of this hotel is its friendly Balinese hospitality and culture. Find out more about the Green Garden hotel.

The Green Garden Hotel, among the popular family owned and operated run hotels in Bali, offers travelers an accommodation experience that combines comfort with flexibility and affordability.

This accommodation principle truly makes for a home away from home.

The Island Hotel

Situated just a short stroll away to the famous Double 6 beach. The Island Hotel in Bali is surrounded by great restaurants, night clubs and late night bars. There is also a fantastic shopping district is right on your doorstep to pick up some great souvenirs of your stay in Bali.

This hostel is actually described as the first boutique hostel on the island.

Travelers to Bali can enjoy the best of both worlds at the Island Hotel, experience a chilled out culture and and enjoy an excellent base for adventure activities such as hiking or diving. Find out more about the Island Hotel.

Nick’s Homestay

Nick’s Homestay pitches travelers with real Balinese families in Ubud. The homestay design is in the style of the houses of Balinesse holy priest.

Travelers to Nicks’s Homestay really can feel that they belong to part of Balinese culture and the people. Nick’s Homestay welcomes guests from all over the world.

This style of budget accommodation is a great way for travelers to appreciate the culture of Bali and feel at home in Ubud. Learn more about staying at Nick’s Homestay.

More Places to Stay in Bali

Take a look at some of these videos offering extra insight into a stay in Bali.

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Most people who have traveled to Bali soon start to wish that they had packed a little less in their suitcase, as they inevitably end up leaving the country with much more in the way of purchased apparel.

Shopping Opportunities in Bali

Shopping for men’s, women’s and children’s clothes is almost as much fun as shopping for souvenirs.

The quality is good, as are the prices. And there are many styles and sizes to choose from.

The Balinese are especially fond of children, so you’ll find plenty of attire and some designer fashions for little ones.

You will not need fancy clothes, as the island is lacking the sort of locale where one would wear evening wear or dress shoes.

Bring open-toed sandals which are easy to walk in. You might also want to bring a pair of sneakers or rugged hiking shoes if you are walking or hiking else good beachwear will do the trick.

Hiking Adventure in Bali

Many hiking associations consider Bali one of the top destinations for the island’s breathtaking scenery which is truly awe inspiring.

Hiking in Bali offers impresive scenery and powerful landscapes and vistas for the determined hiker.

If you have arrived in Bali to go hiking make sure it is the dry season ideally. The best time to go hiking to the top of the mountains is during the dry season because the trails are not so slippery and wet.

Furthermore if you have gone hiking for the views of the scenery it is more likely that the there are no clouds or mist so the views from high up the hills and slopes are much clearer.

There are plenty of remote winding village paths, crystal clear lakes for fishing and even diving plus jaw dropping coastlines, craters and paddies or rice fields, as well as rocky heights where you’ll glimpse gorgeous sunrises and sunsets.

Water Sports and Marine Activities

Bali is a remarkable place for adrenaline fueled water sports, visitors to the island can enjoy beach side water sports or more aggressive surfing and scuba diving amidst the corals and rocky inlets that surround the coastline.

There are plenty of water sport opportunities in Bali including surfing

A warm climate and clear crystal waters make water sports in Bali an obvious choice for adventure activities.

What About the Weather?

What about the weather indeed, the most important question for many! There is high humidity and there are usually refreshing scattered thunderstorms that clear the air.

If you’re not accustomed to temperature in the high eighties, you may feel compelled to rush into your hotel room and turn on the air conditioning.

Before it you that, rather than turning the a/c on full-blast, consider turning it down a few notches below what the temperature is outside.

That will be more than enough to cool you down, and, remember, you will be going in and out. Your own body thermometer will soon adjust.

Using Electrical Items

What sort of electrical outlets do hotels use? Most use 220 V, 50 cycles. You will need to bring appliances with the prongs that are the dual round ones.

If you are female and a good hair dryer is essential packing then you want to make certain that it works!

There is a well-known supermarket in Bali named “Matahari’s” which carries adaptors, if you find yourself in need of one. (Ask the person at the front desk of your hotel where the nearest “Matahari’s” store is.)

Eating Out and Local Cuisine in Bali

Meals in Indonesia include plenty of scintillating curries, tummy filing black eyed peas and egg plants, cooling cucumbers, and redolent mustards.

Dishes often contain coconut milk and fragrant fruits like pineapples and papayas. Spices are used liberally. Rice is a staple part of the diet. You’ll find the food flavorful, rich and healthy. Enjoy the cuisine!

Create a Trip to Bali in Indonesia

Kick start a Bali adventure by creating a trip to Indonesia with the Globetrooper trip wizard.

Our travel planner is free to use for group travel and you can be meeting other travelers hoping to journey to Bali in next to no time at all.

Related Videos for Visitors to Bali

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Winter and the holiday season brings families together for vacations across the globe, winter sun enthusiasts are flying out while snow sport aficionados are hitting the alpine slopes. Take a look at this weeks pick of the trips on Globetrooper.

Visit the West Coast of California Motorcycle Tour

Dave is riding his Ducati motorbike across the Californian west coast then is off to the UK. This is an excerpt from the trip.

In spring/summer of 2012, I plan on riding my old Ducati down the West Coast of California. Visit the Grand Canyon then will make my way through the Southern US before shipping the bike and myself to the UK.

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I’ll visit big parts of Europe and if it hasn’t gotten cold, I’ll ride across Russia, ferry the bike to South Korea and ship it to Seattle. Find out more about this trip.

Summer 2012 in Tokyo Japan

Isalcido75 is hoping to visit the city of Tokyo in Japan in summer 2012, read a little about the trip. I’m planning on spending the summer in Tokyo.

Nothing to crazy, just planning on spending time in the city, touring, and taking weekend trips around Japan.

Looking for someone who will be in the area who might want to sight see with me, or even possibly anyone who wants to rent a shared room with me via Sakura house or Oak house. If you feel like seeing Japan get in touch.

Spend New Year Festivities in Toronto

Isaline is looking to spend the New Year festivities in Toronto, Canada and is looking for travel partners. The trip is described as follows.

Spend New Year Festivities in Toronto

We already have our transportation tickets, but my husband and I will be in Toronto, possibly Montreal for New Years eve.

We live in the US on the East Coast. I am French and he is from Colorado. It will be his first time in Canada, and I like to surprise him. I just want to do something different.

I feel like we can just go to a random club like we would if we stayed in DC. I want it to be a Great memory.

So, I am looking for other people who will be in the area at the time, or are from there, have been there at that time and have recommendation. If a trip to Canada sounds like fun then find out more.

India, Nepal and Tibet Tour

Travlnutzy is searching for travel buddies to embark on a tour of India, Nepal and Tibet, he plans on seeing the golden triangle, Varansai and then make my way to Nepal and Tibet.

Don’t have any things planned but would like to do part of it with a tour so would love a travel buddy. Get in touch to discover more about the tour.

Two Weeks in the Spanish City of Barcelona

1955Edmonton is seeking travel partners to journey to Barcelona in north east Spain. Here is a little excerpt from the trip.

I’m female, 56. Spain has been calling me for years perhaps because my ancestors came from there, no more cultural shock for me and I speak the language.

I will use air miles to get there and use my budget to see sights and enjoy activities. Any two weeks inside May and June is open. Why not travel to Barcelona and be part of the fun?

Organize Your own Unique Trip on Globetrooper or Be a Travel Partner

It is easy to to join any of the above trips if they sound appealing. Or if you wish create your own bespoke idea for a trip on Globetrooper and wait for travel partners to join.

From there you can simply use the social networking tools built into Globetrooper to get in touch, discover trip details and what the prices and timings are going to be. Remember if you need flights, try Jet Blue.

To create a trip simply create your own trip using the Globetrooper trip wizard.

How the Rickshaw Challenge Began

Aravind first encountered the rickshaw vehicles as a child, his family in India owned one of the cars and as he got older it seemed to be a novel motor vehicle  to use in what would become a unique and remarkable auto sport.

Aravind first came up with the concept and idea of the Rickshaw Challenge to offer a unique adventure and motor sport experience to driving enthusiasts globally.

The Rickshaw Challenge A Unique Series of Races Across India

The Rickshaw Challenge firmly believes in participating, not simply passing through, the lives of the people in villages and cities along the route.

Rickshaw Challenge has teamed up with Round Table India, a national organization that oversees charitable needs, donations, and projects.

The Rickshaw Challenge brings together teams of Rickshaw driving enthusiasts divided into groups  of up to three people traveling in their rickshaw along a predetermined driving route in India.

So What Exactly is a Rickshaw?

A rickshaw is a unique style of motor vehicle, popular for making short trips across the cities and rural areas of India.

The Rickshaw is a Unique Style of Three Wheel Vehicle Common in India

The rickshaw is an iconic vehicle of India, embedded in culture in much the same way that a black cab or red London bus is so quintessentially English.

Auto rickshaws are very common vehicles in India and also several other countries, they are three wheeled cars which add to their driving charm.

There are different sizes of car but the rickshaws used for the Rickshaw Challenge support three occupants.

The Rickshaw Challenge, based on popular inquiries also offers Tuk Tuk Fans and enthusiasts new and refurbished rickshaws for sale on the Rickshaw Challenge web site.

A Different Kind of Motor Sport Adventure

The adventurers who participate in the Rickshaw Challenge originate from countries as far separated as the United Kingdom and Ireland, Chile, Spain, Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

They come to drive the Rickshaws in India in search of something a bit different and a life changing adventure driving experience.

Each rickshaw vehicle is frequently painted in bright colors and adorned with different emblems such as orange and silver, and decked out with patterns, tassels and beads and other symbols and crafts.

The Rickshaw Driving Experience

Often the overall excitement of the trip is enhanced on account of no maps or limited directions, often relying on locals from villages and bystanders to help guide the rickshaw racers on their way.

Adventurers around the world often find out about the Rickshaw Challenge from travel sites, adventure bloggers and word of mouth.

The minute I read about it, I knew I wanted to do it. What made it even more
special was the fact that we were going through all of this to raise awareness about a social cause,

So said one driver said recently when asked about his experience participating in the Rickshaw Challenge.

The Rickshaw Challenge Routes

Presently The Rickshaw Challenge operates across four popular and diverse routes in India.

The races are of different durations and offer unique challenges to each rickshaw driver.

• Classic Rickshaw Run – The Rickshaw Challenge Classic Run  is where the Rickshaw Challenge all began in 2006!
  The Classic Run is an eleven night journey that covers the very best that there is to see of the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, in southern India.

• Malabar Rampage  – The Rickshaw Challenge MALABAR RAMPAGE entails riding across the Malabar Coast of India (west coast) covering the states of Kerala, Karnataka and the Union Territory of Goa.
  With a distance of close to 1100 kms (680 miles), the ride encompasses some breath taking scenic views and historical cities.
  The pleasant weather during this part of the year, only makes the ride more enjoyable.
  Icing in the cake would be the stay at Margao, one of the famous beach destinations in the world.

• Deccan Odyssey – The Rickshaw Challenge DECCAN ODYSSEY is a ride on a remarkable sojourn of a land shining in legions grandeur – serene beaches, magnificent forts – palaces and experiencing divine tales etched in colossal rocks.
  This week-long journey is through some of the best places in Maharashtra and Karnataka starting from Goa.
  One can experience the best of tourism assets such as pristine beauty of Konkan coast, the art, the culture, the wildlife, the heritage (including world heritage sites of Ajanta – Ellora), local arts, crafts and cuisine.

• Mumbai Xpress – The Rickshaw challenge MUMBAI XPRESS will follow an extensive route through the four states of India – Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Goa and Maharashtra.
  With a dauntless army of fellow adventurers, you will follow a 13-stage course that will take you over 1,900 kilometers (roughly 1,180 miles).
  Your Auto Rickshaw will cut through hills, valleys and beaches cruising along the most exotic and scenic places in the whole Indian countryside.

Where to Find out More About the Rickshaw Challenge

If you have an adventurous spirit and are contemplating entering into the next Rickshaw Challenge race then it is possible to find out more about the rickshaw race on the challenge web site at at http://www.rickshawchallenge.com.

Find Out More About the Rickshaw Challenge Races

Participating in the rickshaw race is ideal for small groups but individual adventurers can also get involved and will often pair up with another racer.

For more details on how to get involved in the Rickshaw Challenge or other similar adventure trips contact the organizers ‘ The Travel Scientists ‘ via their website and they will get back to you as soon as possible.

How many times have we sat huddled in front of a computer screen plotting exciting destinations, activities and our ideal travel itinerary?

The calculator is poised in one hand as the financial costs are compiled and the travel adjustments are made.

It is easy to get caught up in the moment, since planning a trip is an exciting prospect for all of us.

Managing the costs are normally factors that can leave a trip idea sitting in the dust or having to downsize the travel plans.

The cost of a trip can spiral from not appreciating the costs of incidental items and silent expenses.

If embarking abroad by air, the journey to the airport is one cost consideration to take on board.

The fortunate can perhaps expect a lift from a friend or relative but most travelers need to secure expensive cabs or airport parking.

A taxi or black cab is not always ideal, especially when returning home, flight delays and luggage limits can add to the aggravation of getting home safe and relaxed.

Finding Reliable Airport Car Parking Needs Research and is Time Well Spent

If you drive then airport parking is a sound strategy, your car is secured while you are away and you can jump straight into your vehicle on return.

In the United Kingdom for example airport parking services are big business and therefore very competitive.

Sure the number of airports are limited, the major London airports of Gatwick and Stansted all offer car parking services and for parking at Heathrow there are even more choices.

Airport authorities and owners for example lease their car parking space to various firms and agencies who then compete for your business.

In the case of airport parking competition is good for the traveler and consumer, loyalty incentives and combining with accommodation also serve to bring the costs down.

The advantages of parking your car at the airport are clear

• Your vehicle is stored in a secure area while you are gone

• You can drive home straight after landing

• Close proximity to the terminal

• Airport parking is fiercely competitive lowering costs

• Lower cost further through park and stay schemes

• Loyalty programs reduce prices further.

Not Every Car Parking Service is Equal

While parking your car at the airport may be the way to go, travelers still need to do their homework and research, since not all airport car parking firms are created equal. Some aspects to consider include

• Vehicle security, who has access to my car

• Option to combine with hotel accommodation

• Proactive services, road side assistance and vehicle inspections

• Company background, reputation and years trading

• Rewards and incentives for repeat customers

• Multi vehicle discounts

Research Airport Car Parking Firms to Keep Costs Down

It is often the case that a little research will offer extra ways to keep the costs low. You can frequently find airport car parking firms on most major Internet search engines or by using travel sites such as Expedia and Booking.com.

The latter are especially useful if you wish to purchase a car parking and hotel accommodation package and can represent excellent value for money and peace of mind.
How easy is it after all to park your car in a safe area and check in to a airport hotel fresh and relaxed for your flight abroad, this is where a combo package is recommended to most travelers.

London airports can be particularly busy, airport parking does away with much of the hassle and annoyances of flying out of the country with nowhere to park your vehicle or get to the airport.

Airport parking at Gatwick in Surrey is a little way out of the capital and so if you are driving to the airport by car it is much easier to park up and let a professional car parking firm look after your car.

Another aspect to consider when parking your car to go on a trip is peace of mind while you are on your travels.

Real World Experiences

In another scenario a recent traveler from Ireland was searching for Dublin airport parking. He wanted to park his car at Dublin Airport while he traveled to the continent.

His vehicle was fairly expensive and precious to him and it was very important that it would be safe while away from the vehicle for several days.

Reputable airport parking firms know all too well that its not just enough to park a car and forget about it.

Building customer loyalty, respect and confidence that there vehicle is in good hands is all part of the essential consumer package when searching for great car parking deals at the airport.

Young, ambitious professionals eager to make a good living are honing in on the Middle East, specifically the UAE, or the United Arab Emirates, as their home-away-from-home. Dubai is the most popular city in the Emirates among expats and travelers to the Middle East.

All About the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates has seven states. These states are called Emirates as they are ruled by an Emir. (The UAE borders Oman and Saudi Arabia and shares sea borders with Kuwait and Qatar.) Read more about the region of the Middle East here.

Palm Island in Dubai as Seen From the Air

Dubai’s capital, Dubai City, is considered one of the fastest-growing in the world and Dubai’s rapid expansion is viewed as a magnet for expats. This has happened within the last four decades.

Dubai City Videos

Take a quick look around Dubai city with a selection of video clips, the sky really is that blue!

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Dubai Skyline 2010

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Dubai City

So what’s Dubai like, when one isn’t working?  Dubai is for lovers of heat and sun.  The temperature hovers around 104 degrees Fahrenheit or 40 degrees Centigrade.

Weekends (which are from Friday to Saturday, in Dubai) its denizens take full advantage of the white coastline of sandy beaches.

The Heat is Extreme

We visited Dubai in May 2010 for a recreational trip and can attest to the intense heat, it is quite a shock to the system if you were raised in a colder European country.

The temperature rises even higher in the summer months so expect to take some time to adjust to the additional heat if you have never lived in a hot country before.

How Travelers Can Find Employment in Dubai

The economy, too, is blistering like the hot sand.  Dubai has become a Mecca for the construction, media, finance, engineering and IT industries although even Dubai is not totally immune to recent economic downturn and recession and some sectors have seen growth slow or seize up.

The Industrial Dubai Sparkles With Light in the Evening

Due to its rapid growth of late, its hospitality sector is also hot property as evidenced by the rapid construction of new hotels and apartments.

This means plenty of work in these fields. Indeed, Dubai has become a magnet of sorts for Western professionals.

If you have traveled to Dubai to stay a while and find work there should be plenty of employment potential if you have skills and good references.

A City of Prosperity

Dubai seems to exude prosperity, from its skyscrapers to its five-star luxury hotels.  The skyline veritably shimmers with modern, newly constructed architecture and the streets, down below, are frequented by shoppers as they cart colorful shopping bags from mall to mall.

The UAE government, in a bid to increase migration, has created income-tax free zones, which make the already-high salaries very attractive.  (In addition, corporations are not taxed for at least 15 years.)

Living Costs in Dubai

So how expensive is it to live in Dubai?  As expensive as living in any glamorous metropolitan city like New York or London. The difference, however, is the total income one is left with when one pays no personal income tax.

The Skyline in Dubai City has to be Seen

That’s enough of a raise in many expats’ take-home pay for them to claim that the living is easier.  (The currency in Dubai is dirhams, with 100 fils equaling 1 dirham.)

Working in Dubai

Approximately 1.5 million people reside in Dubai. Although females only account for about one-fifth of the population, the influx of foreign women and—with the support of their families.

Local women in the workplace, women are coming into their own, with the result that there is an almost level playing field in many industries, although there is still some inequality apparent.

In fact, local women are now generally viewed as harder-working as and more reliable than the local men by employers.  (Right now, they are still paid less than the men, but this, too, may change with time, to stay on a par with other cosmopolitan cities.)

Women in the workplace do not have to worry about sexual harassment, as there is a severe penalty for such behavior.

There are many local women in top-level positions within Dubai corporations, but these women generally come from families that wield some social clout—the middle and upper-echelon families.

Women who arrive with their spouses will generally have a restriction on their passport, which they will have to have altered, in order for them to work. Wives will have to obtain their own sponsorship, if so.

However, for some reason, employers are still biased against giving women work visas.  It is not uncommon for women to be offered work “illegally”, but this can cost the company a fine and the woman her job.

The Expat Takeover

In Dubai, the expats far outnumber the local residents.  To give you an idea of the disparity, for every one citizen, or Emerati, there are five expats. Where do most of the expats come from?

The majority come from Southern Asian countries like India, Pakistan, the Philippines and Bangladesh. In recent years larger and larger influxes of expats from the U.K., Australia, the U.S., New Zealand and Canada are also presences that are being felt.

Many of these influxes of new residents are professional people and entrepreneurs who seek relief from harsher western taxation regimes and who wish to experience a new way of life.

It can truly be said of Dubai that it is a global and cultural melting pot!

Work Hard to Play Hard

The economy of Dubai is structured so that you have the opportunity to “work hard and play hard”.  After putting in your 40-48 hour week, and if beaches aren’t your cup of tea, you will not have to travel far to partake of indoor wave pools and indoor skiing slopes!

(In September, during the holy month of Ramadan, fasting is required from dawn to dusk in the Muslim faith and, in observance, most employers stay open only six hours per day.)

Dubai City is the Shopping Capital of the Middle East

Dubai is often referred to as the “shopping capital of the Middle East.” There is no better place to find products of every type and kind at unbeatable prices, a wide choice of accessible malls and shopping centers will please every kind of traveler.

The Dubai Mall Opened in 2008 and Offers a Complete Shopping Experience Under One Roof

Dubai excels in providing a shopping experience that applies value, choice and service, they believe for instance that unlike some western shopping malls a trip shopping should be an enjoyable experience.

The Dubai Mall

A selection of videos detailing the Dubai Mall, just one of many shopping malls aimed at visitors to the region.

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The Dubai Mall 2010

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There are many shopping centers to choose from in Dubai, one great example is the Dubai Shopping Mall. You can shop until you drop, its all under one roof!

The Globetrooper View on Life in Dubai

Traveling to the Emirates to live in a city like Dubai requires some adjustment on the part of any western traveler. The heat will hit you hard and the change in lifestyle, culture and customs will also need adjusting to.

The people of Dubai are very respectful, a lot of the excesses of western living are not publicly accepted and there are harsh penalties for not ‘fitting in.’

Spending time in a Dubai prison is probably not somewhere you want to visit so take time to learn the dos and the don’t. If you are female it is important that you dress conservatively in public places and drinking alcohol in public is also frowned upon.

If you can get used to the different culture and the heat Dubai is an amazing place to spend time, either in a work capacity of as a traveler on a trip across the region.

It is not the cheapest place on Earth but this is offset by low taxation. If you are passing through as a visitor then wise accommodation and eating choices will make funds last a lot longer.

If you are used to a whirlwind ‘party lifestyle’ in your home country then adjusting to Dubai will probably take the longest, the Dubai skyline is just one of those places that needs to be seen in person do to the sight justice.

Is Dubai a symbol of mankind’s ambition or a monument to its greed and excess, you decide?

Considering a Trip to Dubai City or the Middle East?

The Globetrooper trip wizard is a trip planner that lets you find travel partners or people to spend time with while away on your trip.

Creating a trip is a quick easy process or you can search for existing trips that meet your needs and join them.

Try creating your trip to Dubai now.