http://www.hostels247.com/hostels_247blog/ Best Hostels 24/7. No Booking Fee. No Hassle. en-us HOSTELS 247 Fri, 19 Sep 2008 18:52:48 +0100 http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Youth__Travel__Blog/ The youth travel market is changing fast and growing day by day, its all about affordability, inexpensive and budget accommodation, when we say Budget we mean a clean and Affordable accommodations, youth hostels, bed and breakfast, guest house not run down dives. The youth of today are nimble and globally savvy, they know what they want and at what price. They want to be able to get up and go at the drop of a hat and not restricted by boundaries. They require a fast and easy to use service where they can Search, Book and Go, the last thing they want is Hassle. Hostels247.com understands the youth travel market and has developed an easy to use, No hassle site that offers a budget and inexpensive accommodation booking, Travel Tips and Guides and a lot more. Unlike other web sites, that I am not going to mention, that claim to know what youth of today and backpackers want, they operate web sites with no clear means of contact, and charge for even to use credit cards on their site, Hostels247.com is made for youth market and Budget travellers, we travel in the same circle and we believe in Get Up and Go and Can Do Attitude. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_This__Site__is__Soooooooooooo__Wicked/ Hi, Check this out....... I have been to loads of Booking Sites and stayed in Countless Hostels and Budget Hotels, This site is really Wicked, there are a lot of things to make my life easier, the guides are cool, not long winded and written by... well not by people like me. they tell me what I want to know and don't beat around the bush. I love all the Hostels and hotels Descriptions everything is clear and the pictures let you know what your paying for, the map and directions are great, I always need directions and a map it is a lot of help. well I'm off again, this time to check out Prague.......... Gona chill, relax and enjoy Life!!!!!!!!!!! : ) Be Happy. Travel Safely, Hostels RULE! http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Hostels__are__for__Everyone/ Changing Face of Hostels and Cheap Accommodation The youth and budget travel market demands more today than ever, the travellers are street wise and globally savvy, they know what they want and at what price. If you ask any young person what they want to do in life they probably wouldn't give you any sensible answer, but one thing they definitely know is they want to Travel the World and Visit as many places as possible before they settle down. There is a Can Do Travel attitude in the Youth of today, they want to travel from Sydney to BeiJing, from New York to London and Prague, From Lagos to Cape Town then possibly new Delhi, all on a shoe string budget, this attitude has been inspired by the Boom of Budget Airlines and Cheap Air Travel this has also brought about the boom in Budget Accommodation, which is the fastest growing sector in the Accommodation and Tourism. Time has been a friend to Hostels and the people who stay in them. Only a few years ago if you stayed in a Hostel it may not have been the best experience, but now things have definitely changed for the better. Some people in America used to refer to Hostels as Toilet because of the poor standards, outright neglect and lack of customer care. The prices of Hostels and Cheap Hotels are still the most competitive in the Market for Inexpensive Holiday Accommodation, but the Quality of the accommodation and service given by the staff has improved 10 fold. Some of these changes have been brought about by the emergence of the Internet and online Hostel Booking sites Like Hostels247.com, which use a rating system and demand high standards from the operator, this lets backpackers and Budget travellers know what type of Hostels and Cheap Accommodations they are booking before they get there. Also after staying in the Accommodation they can send in their feedback and Rating of the accommodation to the online booking site. This type of online booking allows the traveller know what they are getting into before they confirm their booking. This gives the traveller the opportunity to know what type of Facilities there are, full description and Photo's, Directions and much more. You can now find Hostels in many Cities around the World with Private Single, Double and Triple Rooms with en-suite Facilities, Free Internet access and WiFi Hot spots, there are many Hostels with full Guest Kitchens, Meeting Facilities and some with Gyms and Swimming Pools, things which you would only expect from Expensive Hotels and Private Apartments. Even if you prefer to stay in the Classic Dorm style rooms these have also been transformed, with ingenious things that make your stay more enjoyable, like Free In room Security Lockers, En-suite Facilities, Reading lights for each Bunk and Privacy Curtains. Hostels today are run like a business that care for its customers and not half way houses for delinquents. The Quality and variety of Facilities provided in many Hostels and budget Hotels make you think you are staying in a far more expensive Hotel, it is good to know you have found a great deal. It must be said that a lot of Hostels have improved dramatically, and by online booking sites insisting on best standards this has forced even the most scrupulous operators to get their act together, there will always be exceptions, but as a whole, if you have never stayed in a Hostel before there is no better time than Now, to take the Plunge and save yourself some serious money. You will be pleasantly surprised, and you might even be converted into a Hosteller. By Piyagarn http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Destination__Hostel/ Hostels or Cheap Youth Hostels may not sound very glamorous, and for years it may not have been the best of Ideas, but this is the most common destination for the budget travellers and the youth of today when they travel. If we take a closer look at Hostels and what they have to offer to the budget traveller of all ages and the youth of today, you can begin to see the benefits and what is encouraging so many people to stay in them. Once you have stayed in your first Hostel, in no time at all your hooked on saving money on your hostels Accommodation while getting the same benefits as Hotels with added extras, like Guest Kitchens for your quick sandwich and cup of tea to relaxing in the gardens while someone is Busily Cooking Lunch on the Bar BQ. There are many misconceptions about staying in a Hostel which I would like to resolve. Not everyone that stays in a Hostel has to sleep in a Dorm in a Bunk bed! Yes there are a lot of Hostels that have dorm style rooms, these are the cheapest rooms in the Hostel, and you pay for your bed this may or may not be a Bunk bed and the room is shared with other people. These Dorms can be Mixed, All Female or All Male and the number of beds can vary from 2 to Over 20 depending on the Youth Hostel. I find this type of Accommodation great if you are travelling with some friends and you need a cheap place to rest, or you want to visit as many Cities and Countries as Possible without blowing your whole Expenditure on Expensive rooms that you do not even spend much time in because your out exploring the City and visiting all the sights. In most hostels there are Private Rooms, Yes I said Private Rooms. Let me Clarify, you and your partner choose to stay in the hostel in a Double En-suite Room. This means you and your partner have a Completely Private room with your own En-suite facilities you DO NOT SHARE. These rooms are slightly more expensive than the Dorm Beds but not even close to the prices of most Hotels. You still have full use of all the Facilities in the Hostel so if you want to chill out I the Lounge or play pool in the Games room you are free to do so. If it is your first time staying in a Hostel and you're a little apprehensive, this is the perfect option for you and it still does not break the bank, you can participate in the Hostelling experience but you still have your own private get away in your room when you want some quiet time with just the two of you. There are many great reasons to stay in a Hostel, Budget Hotel or Bed and Breakfast, many of these reasons are outlined when you Book online through websites like Hostels247.com There is always a detailed description of the Accommodation with pictures and a list of the facilities provided and a rating generated from the views and comments from other travellers who stayed in the place. You can easily see what you are paying for before you get to your destination, so that alleviate a lot of the worries of the unknown. Hostels,Youth Hostels Backpackers Accommodation Budget Hotels, Bed and Breakfast and all types of Budget Holiday Accommodation are the fastest growing part of the travel industry, with ever increasing standards encouraged by online Hostel booking sites like Hostels247.com. There is no better time to start your summer travels, save money and begin to stay in Hostels, Youth Hostels, Budget Hotels, Bed and Breakfast. The worst that can happen is you spend the money you saved on the accommodation on a useless Souvenir! (Just Joking) By Piyagarn http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Path__Less__Traveled/ Path Less Traveled Traveling, visiting new places and experiencing different cultures and ways of life is all part and parcel of why we have the urge to travel. But as a whole people are not as adventurous as you would expect, summers are spend visiting the tried and tested old favourite destinations like London , Paris , Amsterdam Majorca, New York and Florida . There is nothing wrong with this; I am only trying to broaden the horizon and temp people with something a little more adventurous and rewarding.
Let's start with the basics, we want to travel to get away, go to the beach and enjoy time away from work visit museums and monuments or just go shopping in a different City. This can be achieved by going to a variety of new places; it is more Fulfilling and exciting to go to a completely new destination.
The web and online Hostel booking sites like Hostels247.com has opened the world to everyone there are many less travelled countries and Cities just waiting for you to experience them, Some of these such Countries are Bulgaria with its capital Sofia one of the fastest growing tourist destinations in Europe, and Nigeria, undoubtedly the most important Country in West Africa, know as the Heart and Giant of Africa, with about 150 million inhabitants and over 250 different ethinic groups and dialects, the three major Tribes are Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba. English is widely spoken and is the official lanuage. The two main religions are Christainity and Islam.
Nigeria borders on Cameroo in the East, Chad and Niger in the North and Benin in the west it has 36 states, Abuja is the Capital of Nigeria it is a growing city with a modern infulstructure and a beautiful landscape, like Zuma Rock and Aso Rock. Abuja has a ultra modern airport ndash; Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport named after the first president of Nigeria.
A must visit city in Nigeria is Lagos, it is a colourful and crowded city, but has tranquil get aways like Ikeja, Lekki area with Lekki Beach and Victoria Island with Bar Beach.
Ibadan is one of the oldest cities in Africa and is the center for leaning it boasts one of the best Golf courses in the country.
The most interseting city to the north is Kano, a very old center of learning and an important emirate before the colonial rule, a great city to explore.
Zaria and Sokoto with a real Sultan are two other old Hausa cities you can visit and not forgetting Kaduna, a very important trading center.
Jos is one of the best places to visit in Nigeria, the State is located on a plateau 1200 meters above sea level, which means it is cooler in Jos than any other place in Nigeria.
Benin City one of the oldest and the most important cities in Nigeria. The spectacular beauty about the city is that it is surrounded by historical moats, it was used as a form of defence against enemies of the city. Benin City has always been know as the city of the best bronze casters in West Africa. Some of the well known early bronxe statues can be found in Britsh Museums.
Asaba the capital of Delta State is located on the edge of River Niger. Asaba forms a connector between Western, Eastern and Northern Nigeria through the River Niger from the North and via Niger Bridge an East West link and a Nigerian landmark. It is a gateway to the city of Onitsha, a very important commercial city. Nnewi situated in Eastern Nigeria. It is a very important commercial city, majorty inhabited by many industrious and creative Igbo business men and women. Nnewi is poularly nick-named Japan of Africa, since vitually all motor and motocycle parts of all brands can be repaired or reconstructed in this city, and it is the biggest importer of spare parts in Nigeria. It is the home of the first Nigerian Millionare.
Port Harcourt has long been an important merchant port and is today the centre of Nigeria 's oil industry. It has a vibrant night life and a variety of luxury Hotels and budget accommodation.
Calabar is in the far South East of Nigeria bordering Cameroon, it has some must see sights one of them being Tinapar the new Business and Tourist resort. Nigeria has a lot of other important cities such as Enugu, Aba, Awka, Warri, Ijebu-Ode, Ilorin, Minna, Owerri, Yola, Zaria and Nsukka, a very important place in Nigerian Higher Education History it is the home to the first indigenous university established in Nigeria. It was founded by Dr. Benjamin Nnamdi Azikiwe, the first president of Nigeria .
http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Hostels__and__Cheap__Accommodation__in__London/ Hostels and Cheap Accommodation in London You would be hard pressed to find someone who hasn't heard of London and all the famous attractions like Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, London Eye, Tate Modern, The British Museum, Tower of London and Hyde Park or Trafalgar Square and Queue Gardens, in fact it's almost impossible. One of the most under estimated and least thought about sides of any visit to London is the Accommodation that you're going to stay in. It's not because there is a lack of places to stay, but because people usually head to the nearest hotel. There are many 5 Star Hotels in the London all charging an arm and leg which is fine if you have a massive budget and don't mind paying through the nose, but the Top Tip for an enjoyable stay in London is to Head for a Hostel, they are inexpensive and always centrally located, like Astor Quest located near Queensway and Bayswater Tube Station, Globetrotter Inn London, Royal Hyde Park Hotel, Meininger City Hostel amp; Hotel London near Gloucester Road Tube station and Stay Journeys Kings Cross to mention just a few. The easiest and most effective way to choose which Hostel or Budget Hotel would be best for you, is to go to an online booking site like Hostels247.com you can see Pictures of the Accommodation read a detailed description and in most cases view the Hostels Location on a Map to get an idea of what is near by. Hostels have a variety of Accommodation you can choose from. There are Dorm Beds which are great if you're with a group of friends they are very cheap and you can all stay in the same Dorm, you may have to share the bathroom with other people, if you want some privacy or you are travelling with Family a Private Room with En-suite facilities is the perfect answer these room are slightly more expensive than the Dorm Beds but you have your own space. There is no right and wrong place to stay in when you're visiting London, but there is definitely nothing wrong with saving some money while you're there. Hostels, Budget Hotels, Bed and Breakfast are the perfect alternative to expensive Hotels they are very under estimated and are definitely worth staying in the next time you're in London. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Cape__Town__Accommodation__And__Hostels/
Cape Town Accommodation a helping hand
Cape Town is undoubtedly the premier city of South Africa , no visit to South Africa would be complete without a visit to Cape Town , to soak in the splendor of Table Mountain , the pristine beautiful sandy coastlines and the magnificent countryside offering a unique floral kingdom.
There are many places to see and visit, from shopping malls, flea markets, restaurants jazz cafes, theatres and glitzy nightclubs, there is something to do for everyone.
Cape Town is a Haven for Surfers, Beach Lovers and Budget travelers.
Budget travelers head for Cape Town because there is a wide variety of Hostels, Youth Hostels, discount Hotels, Bed and breakfast to choose from, like 147 On Main, Backpackers on Castle, Dolphin Inn, Salty Crax, The Backpack and Africa Travel Centre and the Tip Top Lodge to mention just a few. It can be quite over whelming and hard to choose which would be the right place to stay in.
An easy and simple way to help you choose is to go to an online Booking site like Hostels247.com, you can read the accommodations description, look at Pictures and see what facilities are available, it's a great way to get an idea of what you're paying for before you get to cape Town . Youth Hostels have a variety of Accommodation you can choose from. There are Dorm Beds which are great if you're with a group of friends they are very cheap and you can all stay in the same Dorm, you may have to share the bathroom with other people, if you want some privacy or you are travelling with Family a Private Room with En-suite facilities is the perfect answer these room are slightly more expensive than the Dorm Beds but you have your own space. No matter which room, bed or hostel you stay in Sites like Hostels247.com can help you to choose the best place to stay. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Hostels__and____benefits/ Hostels have a variety of Accommodation you can choose from. There are Dorm Beds which are great if you're with a group of friends they are very cheap and you can all stay in the same Dorm, you may have to share the bathroom with other people, if you want some privacy or you are travelling with Family a Private Room with En-suite facilities is the perfect answer these room are slightly more expensive than the Dorm Beds but you have your own space and you are still able to use all the Hostels Facilities Benefits of Hostel Accommodation Low price of the accommodation compared to alternatives such as Hotels. The opportunity to interact with other travellers from all over the world Hostels have a less formal atmosphere There are extra facilities such as Guest Kitchens, Laundry and Games Room A lot more interaction between guest and staff A home away from Home atmosphere The best way to get the most out of you stay in a Hostel is to first of all choose the right Hostel to stay in, the easiest way to do this is to refer to an online Hostels Booking Site like Hostels247.com you can read a full Hostel description of the accommodation, look at Pictures and see what facilities are available. Then the next thing is to choose the right room to stay in whether that be a Hostel Dorm or Private Room you need to feel comfortable and safe. Use all the facilities available to you, like the Guest Kitchen and Laundry facilities, free internet access, tour guides, play all the games in the games room and have a BBQ and most of all enjoy yourself. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Travel____Generation/ Pack your bags, grab your passport, book your airline ticket and your off at the drop of a hat. The youth of today are nimble, globally aware, travel savvy and internet experts they know what they want and at what price they are willing to pay. Times have changed and the internet has opened the flood gates to worldwide accessibility and knowledge, you no longer have to have deep pockets to enjoy what the world has to offer. Unlike some of the older generation that prefers to plan a holiday or short break months and sometimes even a year ahead. The younger generation could be watching a movie set in Europe and be inspired. They decide they need a break just like that. After a couple of Clicks on an online Hostel Reservation site like Hostels247.com, they have looked at a selection of Youth Hostels and Cheap Accommodation from London, Amsterdam, Prague, Paris to Berlin, Madrid and Krakow made a decision of where to go and booked all in the matter of minutes. Then a day or so later they are off to the chosen youth Hostel in Europe, it's as simple as it sounds. It is amazing what can be achieved over the internet today, the world has been shrunk into a 17 inch screen and no matter what Continent, Country or City you want to visit it would be almost impossible not to find a suitable accommodation at the right price online. It may seem like only yesterday that the internet revolution began, but for most of us the internet and what it has to offer us is an integral part of our every day life, not a day goes by without one aspect of our life being touched by the internet, whether it is checking your email, buying some new clothes, checking out the latest blogs or even booking your flight tickets and accommodation for your next trip all of these things have been possible by internet technology. Rather than shy away from all these technological developments, I say embrace them and make the most out of them. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Budget__Worldwide__Travel______Backpackers__Hostels/ Ever heard the saying "It's a small world"? Well let me tell you this. No matter what Continent, Country or City you live in, the world is on your door step, all you have to do is unlock the door and boldly step into a world of new experiences that are waiting for you. The key to your door is at your finger tips, the internet opens this door for you, go to any online Hostel Booking site like Hostels247.com and you are faced with a borderless worldwide selection of Hostels, Youth Hostels, Cheap Accommodation, Budget Hotels and Private Apartments. It is not only the well known places that are catered for like Cheap Hostels London, tips for the best place to stay in London, Student Digs Dublin or even Cheap places to crash in Edinburgh, these are of course some of the most popular places to go to, and are definitely worth a visit, you can not rule out these classic destination and all the well known tourist sights like Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Edinburgh Castle and many more. The advantage and what has made all these Youth Hostel Reservation sites so successful and popular, is that you also have a choice of more exotic and off the beaten track locations, that you may not have thought about going to before, like Hanoi City Vietnam, Krakow Poland or even Ulaanbaatar Mongolia. Take a couple of minutes to consider these places. It is only in these fascinating and unique places that the you can truly say you are a world traveller, they have a wealth of experiences, great histories and an unlimited number of memories waiting to be discovered, Reserve and Book your flight and accommodation online and then step out into the world. Budget Worldwide Travelling, Cheap air fares and Cheap Accommodation is not only reserved for Students and Backpackers, everyone should enjoy what the world has to offer and there is no need to pay through the nose for your accommodation; no-one should be stuck behind a locked door, when the key is within their grasp, go online now and see what the world has to offer you. The money you save can be used for your next trip or even pamper yourself to a night out on the town, buy the latest gismo or gadget, or even redecorate your place or donate some money to your favourite charity. As they say "Money makes the world go round", I agree, but I also say that there is no need to be frivolous with your hard earned cash. Make the most out of your money and enjoy life. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Summer__Holiday/ Summer is finally here and the Sun is trying hard to shine and break through those clouds in the sky. What most of us wish for is a clear blue sky, lazy days on the beach, maybe the odd Monument or Museum and no work for a couple of weeks, these are some of the ingredients to a perfect Summer Holiday. The right accommodation at a reasonable price is another major factor to an enjoyable Holiday and is one thing, unlike the weather, which is in our control. Ever spent hours and hours flicking through Holiday Brochures, looking for the perfect place to stay? Well that is all in the past, times have moved on and now the internet is your ultimate holiday brochure. Go to any online Cheap Accommodation, Discount Hotel and Youth Hostel reservation site like Hostels247.com and you have the combination of a whole library full of Paper Holiday Brochures all at your finger tips. Choose from London cheap youth hostels, youth London hostel, Student digs in Amsterdam to Discount Apartments in New York and Backpackers Youth Hostels in Cape Town. It is because of the variety and wealth of information on offer that makes the internet a success. There are no borders and hardly any restriction stopping you from for filling your ideal Summer Holiday. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_The__Wonders__of__the__World______Budget__Travel/ Here we are on this amazing place Planet Earth and do we really appreciate the magnitude and splendour of what is all around us? From the air we breathe, the water we drink to the natural marvels like The Great Barrier Reef, Niagara Falls, The Grand Canyon and Mount Kilimanjaro, not to mention all the Man made wonders such as the Pyramids, The Great Wall of China, Eiffel Tower and the Panama Canal. It is a sad but true fact that all these things are taken for granted and there is a very small minority of us who truly appreciate all these wonders. As a whole I suppose we could be forgiven for taking such things like the Air we breathe and water for granted because they have always been there, and we hardly think about them, what we forget is without any one of these life ceases to exist. This is the reason why these other natural and man made marvels and wonders are not also fully appreciated by most of us, unless you have personally seen them in real life, not just seen them on Holiday programmes or documentaries it is hard to comprehend their full beauty. Of course it is not within everyone's reach to climb mount Everest or go to the North Pole and to visit every wonder and exotic places in the world, there are so many to see, but once you have seen one, you can begin to appreciate all the wonders that are in our world. The world is getting smaller and more accessible for the masses with the every growing Budget travel industry, from Budget Airlines and online bookings and reservations for cheap accommodation like Hostels, Youth Hostel, discount Hotels, Guest Houses and Bed amp; Breakfast Hostels to all inclusive holiday package deals that combine cheap flights, accommodation and even meals. This has made travelling accessible, inexpensive and affordable for Students, Backpackers, Budget travellers, low income earners and families. This type of budget travel is a marvel in itself, it's opened the world for everyone to experience the rich cultures of the world, you can now truly say that we are in the melting pot and all cultures and traditions are having an influence on each other. It is no longer just the rich and famous who get to Globe Trot, we all now have the opportunity to visit places that only a few years ago would have been out of our grasp. With this opportunity comes a responsibility to look after the planet so that future generation can also experience and enjoy this marvellous world. It is also our responsibility to grasp this chance at globe trotting with both hands and embrace the new experiences that are waiting for us in different places across the Globe, from Safari's in Africa, seeing the sun set over the pyramids in Egypt, feeling the mist of the Victoria Falls, to lazy days on golden sandy beaches in the Caribbean, or shopping in major European and north American cities, and hick hiking through south America. These are made possible by budget travel. The resources of budget airlines and cheap accommodation are there and it's now up to you to make the most of them, get up and go, the world is your Oyster. Author Piyagarn Copyright © 2007 Hostels247.com no part of this article can be copied without express permission of the author http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Hostels______cheap__Hotels__the__fastest__growing__sector__in__the__travel__market/ This summer has been a boom for Hostels, Cheap Hotels and budget accommodations, this is now without a doubt, the fastest growing sector in the travel market. The budget accommodation goes hand in hand with the growth in budget airline travel, if you buy a cheap air fair and end up staying in an expensive Hotel, the purpose of the cheap air fair is defeated. The key to budget travel is inexpensive prices and affordability. Here we are at the end of another busy summer, Europe has seen the Notting Hill Carnival London and Edinburgh Festival and the Sun is still shinning in other parts of the world Africa, Asia, Middle East and the question is are you going to follow the sun and hot weather or stay and enjoy the bounty that Autumn and Winter brings. We are now looking forward to Oktoberfest in Munch, Halloween Celebrations in October, Guy folks night across London and the UK in November and of course Christmas and New Year, not forgetting the numerous other Festivals, Celebrations and Holidays that are on offer at this time of year across the world. But which do you prefer? Putting a shrimp on the Bar-B at the Beach in Sydney or making a snow man and drinking hot chocolate with marsh mellows in Europe. The choice is yours and it can all depend on whether you have already topped up your tan this summer and your ready to cool off with skiing Holiday in the Alps or an autumn treat in London, Prague or Amsterdam, or you're in need of a suntan boost and you're off after the sunshine. No matter which option is for you, cheap accommodation is the key to a successful holiday, leaving you with a lot of money to treat yourself, your accommodation whether it is a Hostel, Youth Hostel or Budget Hotel it your "Home away from Home" so finding the right place can make or break your holiday. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_The__summer__is__over__in__London__for__now/ The summer is over in London for now and the heat is gone but the fun will go on, we are now looking forward to autumn and winter. Summer was a boom in London even though it rained a couple of times, the fun was still flowing. Well another carnival has come and gone, and the hostellers are now heading to Munich for Oktoberfest. I am off myself to Prague for a while then I may check out Oktoberfest aswell. Happy travels! To Book your cheap accommodation go online for cheap deals http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Backpacking__adventure__part__1/ The summer began like any other for me, I had been working a lot of hours in a new project for months and I was feeling quite worn out, but my hard work was paying off and the project was going well, I needed to let loose, recharge and come back with a fresh outlook and inspiration. A lot of people when they hear about backpackers, they think backpackers are a bunch of lazy young people and scroungers, I just want to let you know before I start, many backpackers are hard workers and are independent at the same time, no-one starts out life as a backpacker. You couldn't really be a backpacker if you are not hard working and resourceful, backpacking is about adventure, surviving on a budget and being street wise. I work very hard and then party even harder. I have travelled a lot firstly as a kid with my parents doing the usual family holiday thing, then as I got older by myself, the travel bug is definitely in my blood, I mostly stayed in nice cushy Hotels. I discovered backpacking accommodation through a couple of old school mates and now I am some what of a seasoned backpacker. I spent a bit of time on the internet checking out places I wanted to go and seeing what I could get up to, I sent a few emails to some mates that were already on the road and arranged to meet up with them, I booked my airline ticket which was quite a bargain for a direct flight. I packed up the usual essentials loads of T-shirts, some Jeans, Shorts, and some other bits and bobs, not forgetting my stomach upset tablets and deodorants, I never leave home without them, then I was off. I should have realised that this summer was going to be a bit different because as soon as my bus came I could tell this was going to be a summer to remember. On the Bus sitting on the back seats were these two big guys, they seemed to be friends because they kept calling each other Brov, but they were having a very heating discussing which soon turned into a very loud argument about some girl, which was no surprise. The bus driver was not impressed and refused to continue until they got off the bus. Of course they refused, then other people in the bus began to complain and tell the guys to get off the bus too. Everyone was getting more and more wound up and no-one would back down, the driver would not move the bus, the two guys wouldn't get off the bus and everyone else was pi**ed off. In the end the guys got off bus and I finally made it to the airport. Check in was quite quick for a change but it only meant I had more time waiting for my flight, on the other side, walking around browsing the usual shops at the airport that don't really do it for me. I settled myself down with a couple of drinks, my IPod and my book, the time went by quickly once I relaxed. The flight was uneventful I slept most of the way, so the long flight didn't seem too bad, I got off the flight the following morning at Bangkok Airport and picked up my heavy backpack, after what felt like a lifetime of watching the same conveyor belt go round and round. This was one of my many trips to Bangkok it was almost like I had never left. Bangkok is a starting place for many backpackers on their way to many countries in South East Asia, Far East possibly Australia, in my case I was staying in Bangkok Hotelfor few days, and heading to Chiang Mai in the North and from there to Burma or now called Myanmar. I have never been to Myanmar before so I was quite excited and looking forward to the challenge. Backpacking adventure part two read more. Backpacking adventure part two read more. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Backpacking__adventure__part__2/ First I got my Taxi from Bangkok Airport; Bangkok is really cheap, it cost only few Baht for the ride to the Hotel, not as cheap as a Tuk Tuk though. I hooked up with friends of mine that were staying at a Bangkok Hotel very close to Siam Centre; it was a first for me to crash with somebody in Bangkok without paying for it, I am usually in one of the many hostels and budget hotels in Bangkok which are quite clean and cheap. So I crashed with them for few days then we headed to Chang Mai. Bangkok has an incredible night life and is a great place to meet other travellers on their way to other places and swap stories with them, some of them still on their way going just like me other on their way back. Bangkok has a totally different atmosphere to Chiang Mai, a bit polluted but still enchanting but I love both places. Bangkok is a place one goes loose and binge eats, drinks and parties all night it has unbridle fun and madness. Chiang Mai is a place of tranquillity and chilling and doing the uuuuummmmm thing, the people are very friendly and hospitable, this is not to say that people in Bangkok are not friendly its just that people in Chang Mai are even more friendlier and culturally proud. After a few days and nights of partying in Bangkok and visiting many markets and taking numerous Tuk Tuk rides, I must say I love these Tuk Tuk's they suite me, although the fumes coming from old buses and cars can sometimes be a bit much, but they cost tuppence, and suite many backpackers and budget travellers, we were off to Chang Mai the next stage of my Journey. Chiang Mai is not just a few minutes ride in a Tuk Tuk away, it is quite a long journey from Bangkok the distance to Chiang Mai from Bangkok is about 750 kilometres (468.75 miles). So the overnight train from Bangkok is the easiest, cheapest and I think the best way to get to Chiang Mai. The cost for a second-class bottom bed is about 661 Baht (Only US$17.00). I think it's the perfect the class on the train, not quite as comfortable as first class but not as expensive as first class, and if you ask me it's clean enough and better value. The train is always clean, which makes the journey more comfortable, which is what you need because your on the train for at least 12 hours. When you first look in the carriage the beds appear to not even exist at first, they fold down into comfortable beds at night. The mattresses on the trains are comfortable you get a blanket even though it's definitely warm enough without it, pillow, sheets, and personal light. I always try to sleep on the bottom bed because you get the window, so I really recommend getting this bed, air con. or not. If you are travelling with friends like I was the Journey seems to go by a lot quicker. After many hours on the train I was happy to finally be in Chiang Mai, in northern Thailand the land of a million rice fields. Chiang Mai is bordered by the Mekong River and the mountains of Burma, and surrounded by jungles from the central plains. The peace and tranquillity hits you as soon as you step off the train. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_United__world/ Budget Travel-Hostels and cheap accommodation is the way forward, the youth of today want to travel to every corner of the world on a shoe string and they don't want to pay through the nose for accommodation when they get there. Travelling is the cool way to social network and the fun way to meet people from different backgrounds and cultures to share their experiences and swap stories. It enriches one's mind, tests and expands one's tolerance. Share your backpacking and travel stories with friends and bloggers online. You never know they might learn something from you. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Backpacking__Boozing__Lover/ Night Clubs, Beer, Babes and a cheap place to crash, that's what care free backpacking and backpacking hostel accommodation means to me, it's an organised chaos (well kind of organised) and I love it. The fact you can almost do anything, within reason, for the few days you're staying is perfect, flirt, make one night special friends, and be as wild and daring as you want. One day I'm romancing my special friend, the next day I'm trying not to get my head kicked in by her boyfriend, to me it's all part and parcel of what makes Backpacking enjoyable, the unknown and being free to explore. It sounds corny, but I always say, I'm a Lover not a Fighter, but it's nearly always my loving that get me into Fights, don't worry about me, I can definitely hold my own and a few bloody noses and split lips are certainly worth it. Most nights usually end in one of two ways, either with me and a load of other blokes I just met, settling our differences outside a Bar or Club, or walking off with a beautiful woman (Beautiful Looking after couple beers anyway!) one thing that I can always be sure of at the end of a busy day boozing, is that I always have a Cheap amp; Comfortable place to sleep, even if it is in a room, with a load of other drunken Guys and girls, once your asleep who cares! http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_No__Borders__World/ Young, Carefree, amp; adventurous the World is your Oyster, Whatever! Who needs an oyster? I am Young, Carefree and the World is a giant Dorm room and I have an unlimited pass, well, it doesn't quite have the same impact or finesse, but it's the truth. With the ever growing number of cheap air fares and Budget Accommodation across the world, it seems like a no borders World. Only a few years ago it would have been impossible to have seen and experienced the amount of places that I have been to, on such a small amount of money. The increase in quality Budget accommodation available online has been the most amazing in my opinion from Beds in London #163;15, Amsterdam ˆ15, Berlin ˆ12, Rome ˆ11 to New Delhi $10 and Hanoi City $7 to mention but a few. I am able to globe trot as easily as going to my local supermarket. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Mean__Streets__of__Amsterdam/ Too much beer, Bloody noses, Split lips, and a massive hang over that's what happens on most nights when I'm out with my mates. We don't look for trouble, it just seems to find us no matter what city we are in. Take for example the other night in Amsterdam, we were minding our own business having a couple of beers in a bar, chatting to some birds, not even smoking, I'm not in to all that! Then all of a sudden these guys come in and start screaming and shouting at us for No reason. No way were we having that! so of course we had to react and things got a bit Physical, Chairs got thrown, Bottles got broken and we all got chucked out, so we settled our differences on the mean streets, you know how it is, then we had to scarper back to our Cheap Hostel in Amsterdam, before we got nabbed by the lokale politie (local cops) nothing special really, but as you can see it wasn't our fault, we didn't start it, we just finished it. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_BACKPACKING__ON__A__SHOE__STRING/ Backpacking on a shoestring, is the cheapest way to travel the world, discover new and exotic places.

The hard core Backpacker Hitch Hikes the World, off the beaten path, for months on end and carries all they need in their Backpack from Clothing, Maps and Sleeping Bag, they live on their wits, are street wise, careful with money, have an adventurous mind set and are willing to live on the bare minimum and have mastered the art of making friends quickly along the way, they crash in Hostel dorm rooms, camp sites or any cheap digs along the way.

Backpacking does not have to involve caring a heavy backpack, many backpackers, are nimble and swift travellers and take advantage of cheap airfares, hostels and budget Hotels accommodation and are willing to plan ahead. The key to backpacking on a shoestring is to grab the best deals online for flights; transportation, accommodation and hitch hike the rest of the way.

To truly understand the joy and fun in backpacking you have to try it yourself, am not talking about get a backpack and going on a holiday for few days or weeks, am talking about letting yourself go for months and travel the globe I mean of the beaten path http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Hostels__Bargains/ Hostels, youth hostels and budget hotels is the way forward if you want to save money, book online for the best deals. I booked my London Hostel accommodation online and I saved a lot of money booking my hostel, I used the money I saved to have a really good time in London, that is what it is all about, isn't it?

I did a lot of sight seeing and took loads of pictures of famous sights like, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, London Eye, Changing of the Guards and Buckingham Palace and loads more. I stayed in a hostel in Kensington, which was very convenient, clean and easy to get to everywhere. Getting around in London is really easy, all you need to do is get yourself a travel pass and off you go, Buses, Subway Trains (Tubes), hop on and off and you will be where you want to be in No time.

Nightlife in London is amazing, the happening places are Leicester Square, Soho and Covent Garden, even around my Hostel in Kensington was full of places to go. Kensington and Knightsbridge area is great for shopping also.

Travelling and visiting new places is one of the most exciting things to do, but to get these beautiful places you need to know how to make your budget go far. Booking online is one of the best ways to find great bargains both in hotels, hostels accommodation and cheap flights.

http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_LONDON__24__HOURS__CITY/ London is a Vibrant 24 Hour City and one of the most famous cities in Europe and the World. London is a popular Leisure, Tourist and Business Destination and offers something for everyone Families, Travel Groups, Students, Backpackers, Independent travellers young and old, from the tourists sights such as, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Madame Tussauds, Buckingham Palace, Changing of the Guards and tower of London to Covent garden theatre land with may restaurants and bars to choose from and Leicester Square home to the hippest night clubs, trendy bars and top restaurants.

London has world-renowned shopping streets like Oxford Street, Bond Street, Regents Street, Sloane Street and not forgetting Knightsbridge for Harvey Nichols and Harrods.

Getting around London is easy, hop on and off the many Buses, take the Tube or train or even take one of the Famous London Black cabs, the public transport system in London is unrivalled.

No matter what has attracted you to London, you are not going to be disappointed; London is truly in a class of its own. London has all types of accommodation to suite every Budget and Taste from, hostels, youth hostels, backpacker's hostels accommodation, motels, budget hotels, private apartments, 5 star and luxury hotels, book online before you travel to get the best deals. London can be expensive, so to help you save some money we have put together a list of the best Hostels, Backpackers Hostels Accommodation and Budget Hotels in London to make booking your cheap accommodation easier.
Book your London Hostels and Budget Hotels online now.
http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_christmas__on__the__move/ http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Rock__Hard__Butt/ Rocking Butt, I have found that Backpacking the Globe, going to new and exotic places, is great exercise. It keeps you fit, active and tones your body. All the walking round Monuments and Museums, Bicep curls with heavy cocktails, and the sprints to get the best place by the pool or beach in the mornings. All this hard work over the years, Travelling to different places, staying in hostels, budget hotels, bed and breakfast, Guesthouse, Lodgings and cheap backpackers youth hostels, has paid off and has been well worth it. My Butt is Rock hard and I have the picture to prove it! http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_London__Bargains/ London January Sales and cheap London Hostels Accommodation, london is famous for many tourist attractions like Big Ben, Houses of parliament, Trafalgar Square, Tower of london, Lodon Eye and Buckigham palace. But if you are in london for Christmas and New Year and have saved a few pounds on your cheap hostels accommodation in London, one thing you can not miss is the january Sales. The January Sales are the perfect place to bag yourself a lot of bargains, from designer bags and shoes, to I Pods and TV's, if your willing to join the millions of other bargain hunters eager to grab what's on offer. If you want to be amoung the first to pick from the bargains on offer, you will need to be an early riser, as many people begin queuing at 4am, as a lot of shops open at 5am and 6am. If 4 am, is still when you are sound asllep, not to worry, the shops have plenty of bargains to go round, have an enery boosting breakfast, then head for the shops, it's bargain season in London. Traditionally the January Sales began in January, but now days most of the big department stores like Selfridges, Harrods, Harvey Nichols and High Street Stores across London, begin their Sales on the 26th, 27th and 28th December. Bargain hunting during the January Sales is the ideal way to spend a few pounds that you saved on booking your, cheap hostels accommodation, budget hotels and London Backpackers Youth Hostels online. From Oxford Street, Regents Street and Sloane Street to Knightsbridge, you will find hundreds of shops and department stores, packed with bargains just waiting to be bought. No matter what item takes your fancy, you will definately find it at the January Sales. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Happy__Valentine/ Hassle Free Valentine rsquo;s day can be yours

Valentine is almost upon us again hellip;. It must be said that this is another yearly celebration that has grown to an unbelievably high importance in the calendar. If your a man and want a peaceful day, planning ahead is the key, but lets be honest the shops are jammed packed on February 14th with Men trying to purchase a meaningful gift in the last 10 Minutes before the shops close.

On the other hand, women buy gifts weeks ahead and in some cases just after they have cleaning up after Christmas!

Of course I am generalizing and there are always exceptions on both sides, but one thing is for sure a romantic weekend Break, is always appreciated whether it is organised by the man, the woman or both. A few top destinations to consider for your Special Valentine are,

London, the 24 hour city that has something for everyone, shopping, Restaurants, Bars and Night Clubs and World class theatres and shows to suite all taste and budgets.

Paris, the unforgettable capital city of France, Home to the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre and Champs Elysees to mention but a few

New York, Shop till you drop in this vibrant and lively city then relax in one of the many restaurants, Bars or night Clubs

And then of course you can rsquo;t forget Amsterdam, Rome, Venice, Dublin, and Edinburgh.

To be honest the list is endless but these are a couple of my favourites, no matter what you have planned for this Valentine a sure fire way to have a Hassle free Valentine is to plane ahead, book your Budget Hotels, Private Apartments, Hostels, Bed and Breakfast or if your Budget permits 5 Star Hotels online before Valentine Day to get the best deal for the destination that takes your fancy. Valentine is a day that should be enjoyed. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Mothering__Sunday/ Mothering Sunday, is the one day of the year that all mothers around the world have the day off and don rsquo;t feel guilty, from morning till night they are treated like queens and have there every need attended to. Well that is the theory. In reality the day hardly ever is as I described above. Most Mums are happy if they are just acknowledged on this special day. A card, chocolates, flowers or a small gift and a kind word can make your Mothers Day special for your Mum. To be honest there is no need to spend lots of money on fancy cards and Flowers, it rsquo;s the hand made thoughtful touches that are always appreciated more. In short, take some time to honor you Mum on Mothering Sunday, because if it wasn rsquo;t for your Mum, you would never have existed. Book weekend breaks in Hostels and inexpensive hotels accommodation worldwide. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Travel__Social__Networking__on__the__Move/ Backpacking, The Only True Travel Social Networking Forum

Backpacking to me is not only about going and travelling to new places, visiting famous landmarks and taking pictures, it rsquo;s also about the whole experience of backpacking. A major part of the Backpacking experience and what attracts such a diverse array of people to it, is socializing, swapping stories, making new friends and freedom of being in a new place..

Like most backpackers, when I arrive in a new Hostel Accommodation, I secure my locker, take a quick shower and head straight to the Common room, Games room or the Hostel rsquo;s Bar. These are always the best places to meet people, and because they are always busy you are sure to meet someone who has similar interests.

I know I may sound a bit paranoid but you can never be too careful, I always am very careful about who I make friends with when I rsquo;m away backpacking, its not as if I don rsquo;t talk to lots of people, far from it I am always chatting, but I never get too involved with anyone, so the word is, be careful, making new friends doesn rsquo;t necessarily mean you have to trust strangers.

I love the backpacking scene and you can gain a lot of great snippets of information from other travellers. Backpacking is all about feeing free to go where you want, and in the same way you are free to socialize with people who you would never have met sitting at home or in your local bar.

I am a backpacker through and through, the call of different places is always calling to my curious natures and even as I get older I will never stop travelling. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_No__Country__for__Old__Men__Anticlimax__Disappointment/ No Country for Old Men Anticlimax Disappointment No Country for Old Men, a movie written and directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, otherwise known as the Coen Brothers, staring Tommy Lee Jones, Josh Brolin and Javier Bardem. Adapted from the Cormac McCarthy novel, of the same name, recently the winner of 4 Academy Awards, Best Director, Best Picture, Best Screenplay Adapted and Best Supporting Actor. I watched this movie, No Country for Old Men, at my local Cinema, with high expectation, after all the hype and awards given. The Film kept you thinking throughout that a dramatic event and climax was just around the corner. Every time your hopes were raised up, they were dashed at quickly as they were raised. In my mind the film was pretty senseless, and lacked any serious meaning, emphasised by the abrupt and uneventful ending, leaving people in the cinema not even realising the film was over. I think the award givers, are pretty much a bunch of people not in tune with the public consensus, when I discussed the Film and its abrupt ending with a couple of people on my way out of the cinema, they said they wished they had missed the last 10 minutes or so and made up the ending in their mind, they were 100% sure they would have come up with a better ending. In my opinion, the only way this type of film can win an Oscar, let alone 4 Oscars, is if it was the only film in contention. The film makers were much more interested in setting the sense for the sequel than producing a meaningful ending. I know there were not a lot of good movies out and in contention for the Oscars, due to the writers strike, but the ending of No Country for Old Men, seemed as if the writers and Directors, the Coen Brothers were on strike too. I am guessing the Coen Brothers did not just fall asleep or go on strike at the middle of the shooting of No Country for Old Men, maybe they just run out of steam. Book Hostels in all Countries Worlwide http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_PESTA__POWER/ CHILDREN'S PESTA POWER TAKING OVER OUR LIVES I know what you are saying, what is ldquo;Pesta Power rdquo;? Well if you have children, nephews, nieces or even been around children you would have experienced this Pesta tactic first hand. With the increase in commercialisation of children rsquo;s products, children have become more demanding in what they want, advertising and hype of certain items have created a need in children rsquo;s minds for material things, that was never there in the past, this is good for the companies selling all these so called ldquo;must have products quot;, but for the parents and families of the children it has had an adverse effect. These days you would be very lucky to out grocery shopping with your children without one of them asking, can I have this or that. Which is fine if you can financially afford the items, or if they are something relevant, or actually even needed. In most cases all the children actually want is the latest trendy cereal, the latest hyped toy or game or the sweets with the catchiest advert. The problem is not that the children are asking for the items but why and how they are asking, the repeatedly asking of the same thing, please, please, and then if that doesn rsquo;t work, the inset of ldquo;playing up rdquo; and bad behaviour. Most of the time the parents or guardians are worn down by the repeated asking and bad behaviour, this is what people are now referring to as ldquo;Pesta Power rdquo;. The reason this is such a problem is because we are no longer controlling the way our children are behaving, it used to be, your children are well behaved and then they are rewarded for the good behaviour. Now the system is, your children almost demand different things, behave badly and Pesta you until you finally give up and give in to their demands. This behaviour and ldquo;Pest Tactic rdquo; is then translated into the same behaviour at school, thereby creating a difficult situation for teachers. It is time that we all take back control of our children and their behaviour, its hard once the Pesta Tactic has set into a Childs way of life but with determination and a strong mind set the cycle can and will be broken. Book Family Friendly Hostels and Budget Hotels Worldwide. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Perfect__Nails/ The Perfect set of Nails

Women around the world spend hours and hours trying to perfect the way their nails look, from acrylic wraps and false nails to nourishing hand creams, nail strengthening polish and vitamin supplements. The Ideal nails are seen as being not too long, beautifully curved and perfectly coloured.

Every woman has her own idea of what their perfect set of nails should look like, but a good tip and great way to preserve your own nails is this.

Stick to a rigid regime, which is this:

Always wear Washing up Gloves when doing the Dishes, the gloves may not look pretty but they will save your hands and nails from extended exposure to the washing up detergents and water.

After washing your hands Always put hand cream.

Use Hand Cream while your out and about the air and pollution dry your hands, so keep a tube of cream in your bag at all times.

When you apply your nail polish always use a nail strengthening clear undercoat and then the colour, then a clear chip proof top coat. This three layer formula helps to protect and also strengthen your nails.

Do not over file your nails because this can weaken the sides of your nails and lead to chipping.

Lastly a balanced diet and enough time away on holiday enjoying the sun, sea, staying in great hostels and budget hotels accommodation and pampering yourself, will also help to keep your nails and your whole body in tip top condition. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Home__Base/ Reading My Home Away From Home
The Base For My First World Adventure

Let me paint a picture for you; a Canadian university student goes to Reading University in the UK for the final year of her BFA. Last September, I ventured out for what would be my longest stint away from home. The flight was my first. I rsquo;d never even been off the continent. I rsquo;d heard varying accounts; sure the food was supposed to be shitty, as was the weather, but it was to be made up for through the shopping and the social scene. I also had fears that my good nature and friendliness wouldn rsquo;t be as appreciated overseas. And there were the basic concerns of what the unknown was to bring. But as I struggled into the underground with my two oversized suitcases (one for clothes, one for art supplies and school books), a man approached with helping hands. I can basically say my six month adventure went in a similar fashion.

My traveling experience, as previously mentioned, was minimal but I had always been a road trip girl. I rsquo;d visited every small town and major city across central and eastern Canada as well as Eastern and Northern United States. This adventure, however, was about to take me much further. One of the most exciting elements of going to England was its proximity to the rest of Europe and the possibility of travel. While there, I ventured to Venice, Barcelona, Madrid, Scotland, Amsterdam (twice), Brussels, and Paris. It may not seem like much for the time I had, but after all, I was supposed to be studying. This brings me to my main point; Reading gave me a home base in Europe that I relied heavily upon. As an ldquo;inexperienced rdquo; traveler, the thought of touring for months with a bag on my back was intimidating, but having Reading gave me an alternative.

I was forty minutes away from central London, twenty from Heathrow airport. When you rsquo;re coming from North America, it is unreal how close you are to so many other countries. Having Reading allowed me to come and go as I pleased. I could make last minute decisions, such as Venice, and there was always someone who wanted to tag along. It was my start and end point, and after an eventful mishap in Spain, it also became my refuge. Having Reading gave me time to plan tours, take time in between trips, as well as giving me a little added comfort, it became a home away from home.

If you are taking off traveling for the first time, consider these words. And if you are considering traveling in combination with working or studying, the benefits are endless. And just an added plug for international exchange programs; if your school offers it, go for it! You rsquo;ve got at least three years, so take off for one. Plus, employers love it, it doesn rsquo;t cost much more than a regular year and the experience will be both incomparable and invaluable. The opportunity plunges you into one culture while still allowing for you to travel out to others. My time abroad was fantastic and as I look back at my time in Europe and in Reading, I can rsquo;t help but smile

Book Hostels and Budget Hotels in Europe and Worldwide

Author
Amanda Sears http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Obama__Delegate__Visits__London/ STEPHANIE SIGURDSON IS PROUD TO BE A DEMOCRAT

It rsquo;s not the first time I have engaged in a political discussion about the ongoing US Election with Americans. But this is the first time I have had the pleasure, to meet one of the Delegates, in this case a Democrat Delegate, supporter of Barack Obama named Ms Stephanie Sigurdson, she was visiting London with her friend Mr Tom Crain.

We met in a Mexican Restaurant, in Leicester Square the West End of London, we had an in depth discussion about the Democratic Primary and the US Political scene, one thing that struck me was, her passion and support for Barack Obama, she is what you would consider, politically astute and had a clear idea which direction she thinks America should be heading, she truly believes, that Barack Obama is an agent for change for America, and he has already changed the face of Politics in America, by energising the Younger generation to take interest in the American election, and have a say in which direction American in to be taken in the future.

Stephanie Sigurdson believes that the way forward for America is, to have a Good Leadership, Strong Economy, Good Health Care For all, Good Education and a United America, which she truly believes Barack Obama, will be the President that can unite America, from Working Class, Middle Class and every American, Black, White, Rich or Poor, from large cities to small towns across America.

Stephanie Believes that Democrat rsquo;s will be best served, by uniting behind Barack Obama, using their energy and resources to defeat John Mc Cain the presumptive Republican Nominee, instead of some people in the Democratic party, causing a divide in the Party, quot;you know who quot; by constantly trying to undermine Barack Obama and handing the Republicans ammunition.

The Democratic Party is like a family and as such, families should stand united and not wash their dirty linen in public.

Our conversation was very enjoyable, but as a Non-American I will be only watching, and listening to the pundits,.

Book Cheap Hotels in London | Book Hotels in America http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Random__Idiots/ Random Idiots, group of 3 Finish Guys in London, to chill out

3 impressionable, young guys, from Finland, Martti Massiheh, Otso Rantonen and Antti Pulli, spending some time in London after graduating from High school in Finland what better way to Celebrate graduation than to Travel to the entertainment and cultural capital of Europe, London, England.

Sight seeing, Art Galleries, Theatre and Concerts during the day, then at night hanging out in Leicester Square, Covent Garden and Trocadero and Chilling out in some of the many Bars, Restaurants and games arcades, and meeting people from London and around the world. They have found London to be a great place to social network and are having a wicked, time, still keeping in touch with friends in Friends in Finland, with text messages, they never leave home without their Nokia phones.

Like any young guys they have big ambitions and of course Girls and more Girls always on their mind, their many interest other than girls include Theatre, Theology, Rock, Psychology, arts and music.

Speaking of music they have a band called ldquo;Random Idiots rdquo; and they play at concerts and celebration in their home country Finland, two weeks ago they played 2 songs at a concert called ldquo;Nostalgia rdquo; which was great experience and a definite Buzz for them.

While in London they didn't stay in the usual backpackers youth hostels accommdation which you would expect from young travellers of their age, but they splashed out and stayed in Langland Budget Hotel.

This is what growing up is all about, having fun without being stupid. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Hostel__Movie__and__Hostel__Part__II/ Hostel Film and Hostel Part II The Movie - Horror, Torture, Violence and Great Accommodation

Hostel the Horror Movie, written and directed by Eli Roth released in 2005, is arguably one of the scariest movies of all time, with scenes of torture and violence, strong sexual content and language and drug use, it is certainly not for the faint hearted or easily upset or scared.

The Sequel Hostel Part II was released on June 2007 and is equally, if not more scary than the original movie.

Of course if you have never stayed in a Hostel or don rsquo;t know much about Hostels Accommodation, this is certainly not a great promotional video for staying in a Hostel, but what must be remembered is, that, Hostel and Hostel Part 2, are Fictional Horror Films and real Hostels are a great way to save money on Holidays or while travelling on a Budget.

The original Hostel movie revolves around a hostel in a fictional city in Slovakia where 3 backpacking friends, American Backpackers Paxton (Jay Hernandez) and Josh (Derek Richardson) and Icelandic Oli (Eypor Guojonsson), are lured by a Russian Man Alexei (Lubomir Bukovy) who told them that there were may, prostitutes staying at the Hostel who love Americans and foreigners, as budget travellers and guys who love a good time, it seemed like an offer that could not be refused.

The 3 Backpacking friends leave Amsterdam where they met Alexia and board a train to Slovakia, where they meet a Dutch Businessman (Jan Vlasak) who make them very unnerved by his strange behavior.

Once they arrive in Slovakia they check into the recommended Hostel and share a Dorm rooms with two beautiful single ladies that do not disappoint them in any way. The only problem is, the next morning, the group of three friends is now down to two, and this is just the beginning.

The main theme of the Movie is that there is a secret murder for profit company, using the Hostel to lure unsuspecting travellers into the their torture and death, by wealthy business men from all the world who are willing to pay different prices for killing Slovakians, Europeans and most of all Americans.

The Movie has many scenes of torture and violence that constantly makes you turn away, but at the same time you want to see more. It is this curiosity and need for a great deal that the movie plays on.

Don rsquo;t let Hostel and Hostel 2 Film put you off staying in Hostels Accommodation, Hostels Accommodation is the best way to save money while travelling on a budget.

One thing that I that I always think about is, no matter how bad you think the Hostel accommodation is that you are staying in, the water is cold, or the breakfast is too small or you had to pay for your sheets or taxes where not included, it is nothing compared to the Hostels in Hostel and Hostel 2 the movies.

Hostel in London | Hostel in Amsterdam | Hostel in Dublin | Hostel in New York http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Spanish__Mishap__Part__1/ My Spanish Mishap, Part I - La Rambles Barcelona where my Bag was Stolen

It happens to the best of us and you hear about it all the time. For me, it happened as I sat in a restaurant off La Rambles on the last day of my 5 day trip. I was there with two American girls I rsquo;d met at university in England. We were just finishing a glass of wine when I was asked to double check our flight time. Our stay in Barcelona had been eventful and fun but we were all excited about returning to our homes (or temporary homes) for the holidays.

Once I rsquo;d checked our flight time, I reassured them that we had a few hours to collect our things from the storage room at the hostel, take the underground to the airport and check in about an hour and a half before our flight. Unfortunately for me, I wouldn rsquo;t make the flight after all. I had placed my bag not on the chair beside me where it had been, but at my feet instead. In a time frame of less than two minutes, I had the sudden realization that my bag was no longer next to me. Jumping up, I exclaimed that my bag had gone missing.

Tip #1: Be aware of your surroundings. To this day I believe that someone that work in the restaurant was involved with the steeling of my bag, which I reluctantly will tell you now contained my wallet, with all my identification, my passport, my credit cards, my flight ticket, my cell phone, my sketchbook, and over two hundred euro worth of gifts I rsquo;d purchased that day. The police were of little help, except for the report which my insurance would use to reimburse me for my losses. Tip #2: Never travel without insurance. At the realization that I was going nowhere, my two traveling partners said goodbye and I began a long journey of my own, alone.

Author Amanda Sears

My Spanish Mishap Part 2 http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Spanish__Mishap__Part__2/ My Spanish Mishap, Part 2 - Never Loose Faith

Tip #3: My mother has always told me never to put all my eggs in one basket. Likewise, never keep all of your money in one spot just in case someone decides to steal from you. For me, I kept my extra cash in my boot. This would prove to be my salvation.

After searching a 6 block radius in hopes of finding my discarded bag, I gave up. Limping up to the top of La Rambles with blisters on my heels, I sat miserably on a bench and tried as I might to shut out everyone. After a fantastic holiday, I was alone, lost, and miserable. But in the wonderful workings of the world, my faith was restored. A young man, a native to Barcelona, came to me and expressed concern about my present location. He told me it was an unsafe place to be by myself that late at night. I told him that I was just thinking and wanted to be left alone. Unmoved by my apparent shortness, he suggested that if I felt uncomfortable, I could sit with him as he would move a few benches away. I dismissed this act of kindness, but was glad for it within a short while.

A man who had been watching me from a distance for sometime had come to stand within a few feet of me behind my bench. Frustrated, I took up the young man rsquo;s invitation. After a little under an hour with this stranger, he had me laughing again. He had restored my faith in Barcelona. I could again see the city that I had come to love over the past few days. I said goodbye and began my walk back the cheap hostel I rsquo;d been staying at. I would have to beg for a cheap room for the night as my money was limited and I had no idea what the next day would bring. The woman at the front desk of the hostel accommodation was very helpful and understanding. She gave me the address for the Canadian consulate in Barcelona, directions to get there, and a quiet hostel room at a very cheap rate.

I sat in the room that night after a very hot shower and thought about my next course of action. If things were to go the way they had been, I would make it through the ordeal after all. Tip #4: Have faith in those around you, even some who are complete strangers. Even the one woman who was in the same room as me that night taught me that as bad as my place in the world seemed to be, there was someone else in a worse spot. I thanked her for that lesson.

Author Amanda Sears

My Spanish Mishap Part 3 http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Spanish__Mishap__Part__3/ My Spanish Mishap, Part 3 - My Unplanned Trip To Madrid

The following morning, with the help of the hostel worker at the front entrance, I set off for the consulate. I thought my adventure would end shortly, but I was mistaken. I wasn rsquo;t planning on going home for the holidays; I was at university in England. Instead, I rsquo;d planned on meeting my family for a while in the UK, traveling to Ireland with them and then had flights and hostels booked with a friend from Ottawa, in Amsterdam, Brussels, and Paris. I was told at the consulate that if I wanted a new passport to get me into England, they could do it. However, if I wanted to be able to travel in and out of the country, I would have to get a passport that could only be issued at the Canadian embassy in Madrid. Within a few hours, after a phone call home, I was on a bus to Madrid, a city I rsquo;d not planned on visiting.

I didn rsquo;t arrive until after midnight that night, I found a map of the underground and decided that where the most lines crossed would be a good place to find a hostel for the night. My money had been significantly depleted after the bus ride. I rsquo;d had my mother wire me more, but I wouldn rsquo;t be able to get it until the banks opened the next morning. Wondering aimlessly in almost the right area, I met a German guy who asked me if he could be of service. Happy to have found someone who spoke English, I explained my situation. He said he would help, asked if I was hungry and took me to find some food. Thankful of his kindness, I took him up on the offer. He had been traveling with a friend who was at their hostel accommodation sick in bed. He offered me a place to stay in order to save my few remaining dollars. Again, I was thankful that there are people in the world who are honest and helpful.

The next morning I set out for the embassy. I was lucky to make it there on time. It was the beginning of the Christmas holidays and they were about to leave early for a staff party. In less than 24 hours, I had a replacement passport in hand. After receiving the money my mother had wired from home, I checked into a private room in a cheap hostel for a little R amp;R. I needed a long shower, a good night sleep and to air out my remaining processions. It had been raining. Tip #5: Keep the faith.

Author Amanda Sears

Spanish Mishap Part 4 http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Spanish__Mishap__Part__4/ My Spanish Mishap, Part 4: Concluded - Always Book Your Hostel Ahead Of Time

Tip # 6: If you know where you are going, find an internet caf eacute; and book a hostel ahead of time! I found my way to the Madrid airport. I was reluctant to leave. I rsquo;d met many wonderful people in the city and wanted more time to explore. But I was three days late returning to England. I had to contact friends I was supposed to have been staying with there and I was eager to see my family who would be meeting me in a few days. After several delays, a cancellation, and 12 hours at the airport, I was on a flight home.

However, flying into an airport I rsquo;d not been to before, I wasn rsquo;t sure how to get to anywhere I was familiar with. It was suggested to me by a rail employee to head toward King rsquo;s Cross station. I rsquo;d hoped to find a Cheap Hostel to stay near there for the night. My bad luck took a final turn for the worse. I really should have called ahead. By the time I got there (about 3 in the morning) all the Hostels were full or had their front doors closed for the night. It was hopeless. Eventually I found my way back to the station where there was at least security and a populated area. I found a bench to curl up on but lay awake until the sun was up.

I made my way back to youth hostel and asked to use their internet. Eventually, I located a few friends living in London (all my contact numbers were in the phone I rsquo;d had stolen), and finally found someone to meet me a few hours later. I had two days to recover from the exhausted ordeal with a friend living in the area. I could finally relax and actually feel comfortable. Nothing had gone the way I rsquo;d planned but the adventure was one I will never forget. I now feel that I can travel alone and conquer almost any travel situation. I can rsquo;t say I didn rsquo;t make any mistakes, but I certainly have learnt from them.

Author Amanda Sears http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_The__Australian__Backpackers/ Travel, Hostels Accommodation, Partying amp; Having Fun Thats what Backpackings is all about 5 intrepid backpackers from Australia, Steven, Trent, Deano, Juned and Tim on a 5 month long trip backpacking around UK, Europe and beyond. The main aim of their trip is to party and have fun in as many cities and places as possible within 5 months before heading back to Australia.

Currently the guys are enjoying London, Leicester Square, Covent Garden and all that London has to offer the party animal and sight seeing tourist, their base in London is the famous Generator Hostel London in Compton Place off Tavistock place near Russell Square Tube Station.

Some of the must visit Cities on their list of places to go and experience over the next couple of months are, Edinburgh Scotland, Ibiza Spain where they won rsquo;t be short of places to party, Greece, the Islands, Berlin Germany, Italy, Amsterdam for some relaxation and chilling out Holland style and then Tunisia.

A long the way they will visit other cities and places as Europe is so easy to get around by bus and train. No place is beyond these Australian Backpackers reach, with a European train pass and coach travel and cheap airfare makes Tunisia North Africa close, only two and a half hours from Gatwick Airport, the guys budget for travel is kept in check, and by staying in Cheap backpackers hostels the cost of their accommodation is also kept within a backpackers budget.
Backpacking is great way to explore the world without breaking the bank. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Countries__in__Western__Europe/ List of Countries in Western Europe, the Capital Cities and some of the major cities in Western Europe.

All of these Western European Countries and Cities are top Business, Holiday, Travel and Cultural destinations.

Western Europe has many Traditions and Cultures unique to each country and city, the people of Western Europe speak Hundreds of Languages and any visitor to Western Europe can expect a warm welcome no matter which country or city they choose to visit.

Andorra
Capital City of Andorra: Andorra la Vella
Other major Cities in Andorra, Les Escaldes, Encamp, Saint Julia De Loria
Austria
Capital City of Austria: Vienna
Other major Cities in Austria, Wien, Graz, Linz, Salzburg, Innbruck, Klagenfurt, Villach
Belgium
Capital City of Belgium: Brussels
Other major Cities in Belgium, Antwerp, Gent, Charleroi, Liege, Brugge, Namur, Leuven
Denmark
Capital City of Denmark: Copenhagen
Other major Cities in Denmark, Viby, Valby, Soborg, Albertlund, Randers, Arhus
England
Capital City of England: London
Other major Cities in England, Birmingham, Leeds, Sheffield, Bradford, Liverpool, Manchester
Finland
Capital City of Finland: Helsinki
Other major Cities in Finland, Espoo, Tampere, Vantaa, Turku, Oulu, Lahti, Kuopio
France
Capital City of France: Paris
Other major Cities in France Marseille, lyon, Toulose, Nice, Nantes, Strasbourg, Montpellier
Germany
Capital City of Germany: Berlin
Other major Cities in Germany, Hamburg, Munich, Koln, Frankfurt, Essen, Dortmund, Stuttgart
Gibraltar
Capital City of Gibralter: Gibraltar
Greece
Capital City of Greece: Athens
Other major Cities in Greece, Thessaloniki, Patrai, Iraklion, Larissa
Iceland
Capital City of Iceland: Reykjavik
Other major Cities in Iceland, Kopavogur, Hafnarfjorour, Akureyri, Garoabaer, Keflavik
Italy
Capital City of Italy: Rome
Other major Cities in Italy, Milan, Napoli, Torino, Palermo, Genova, Bologna, Florence
Ireland
Capital City of Ireland: Dublin
Other major Cities in Ireland, Cork, Dun Laoghaire, Limerick, Galway, County Waterford,
Liechtenstein
Capital City of Liechtenstein: Vaduz
Other major Cities in Liechtenstein, Schan, Triesen, Balzers, Eschen, Mauren, Triesenberg
Luxembourg
Capital City of Luxembourg: Luxembourg,
Malta
Capital City of Malta: Valletta
Other major Cities in Malta Birkirkara, Qormi, Mosta
Monaco
Capital City of Monaco: Monaco
Other major Cities in Monaco, Monte Carlo, La Condamine, Fontvielle,
Norway
Capital City of Norway: Oslo
Other major Cities in Norway Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger
Netherlands
Capital City of Holland Amsterdam
Other major Cities in Netherlands: Rotterdam, Sgravenhage, Utrecht, Eindhoven, Tilburg
Northern Ireland
Capital City of Northern Ireland: Belfast
Portugal
Capital City of Portugal: Lisbon
Other major Cities in Portugal, Porto, Amadora, Braga, Setubal, Coimbra
San Marino
Capital City of San Marino: San Marino
Other major Cities in San Marino, Serravalle, Acquaviva, Poggio Di Chinesanuova
Scotland
Capital City of Scotland: Edinburgh
Other major City in Scotland, Glasgow
Spain
Capital City of Spain: Madrid
Other major Cities in Spain, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Zaragoza, Malaga, Ibiza, Palma
Sweden
Capital City of Sweden: Stockholm
Other major Cities in Sweden, Goteborg, Malmo, Uppsala, Vasteras
Switzerland
Capital City Switzerland: Bern
Other major Cities in Switzerland Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Lausanne
Wales
Capital City of Wales: Cardiff
Other major cities in Wales, Swansea

Book Cheap Hostels and Budget Hotels in all the Western European Cities and Countries http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Countries__in__Africa/ List of the Countries in Africa, the Capital cities and major cities in Africa.

All of these African Countries and Cities are top Business, Holiday, Travel and Cultural destinations.

Africa has many Traditions and Cultures unique to each country and city, the people of Africa speak Hundreds of Languages and any visitor to Africa can expect a warm welcome no matter which country or city they choose to visit.

Africa has a lot to offer from, North, South, East and West. From the well known tourist and business destinations like, Nigeria, the Heart Of Africa, the most populous country in Africa, Egypt, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, Mauritius and Kenya, to the hidden treasures that be found in every African country and city from Gambia, Botswana, Chad and Ghana to Burkina Faso, Cape Verde and Cameroon.

Algeria
Capital City in Algeria: Algiers.
Other major cities in Algeria, Oran, Constantine, Batna, Bab Ezzouar, Annaba
Angola
Capital City in Angola: Luanda.
Other major cities in Angola, Huambo, Lobito, Benguela,, Kuito, Lubango
Benin
Capital City in Benin: Porto-Novo.
Other major cities in Benin, Cotonou, Parakou, Djougou, Bohicon, Kandi
Botswana
Capital City in Botswana: Gaborone
Other major cities in Botswana, Francistown, Molepolole, Selebi-Phikwe, Maun
Burkina Faso
Capital City in Burkina Faso: Ouagadougou.
Other major cities in Burkina Faso, Bobo Dioulasso, Koudougou, Ouahigouya
Burundi
Capital City in Burundi: Bujumbura.
Other major cities in Burundi, Muyinga, Ruyigi, Gitega, Ngozi, Rutana, Bururi
Cameroon
Capital City in Cameroon: Yaounde.
Other major cities in Cameroon, Douala, Garoua, Kousseri, Bamenda, Maroua
Cape Verde
Capital City Cape Verde: Praia.
Other major cities in Cape Verde, Mindelo, Santa Maria, Santa Cruz, Sao Filipe, Assomada
Central African Republic
Capital City in Central African Republic: Bangui.
Other major cities in Central African Republic, Bambari, Berberati, Bouar, Carnot
Chad
Capital City in Chad: N rsquo;Djamena.
Other major cities in Chad, Moundou, Sarh, Abeche, Kelo, Koumra, Pala
Comoros
Capital City in Comoros: Moroni.
Congo, Dem Rep of
Capital City in Congo, Dem Rep of: Kinshasa.
Other major cities in Congo, Dem Rep of, Lubumbashi, Mbuji-Mayi, Kolwezi, Kananga
Congo, Rep of
Capital City in Congo, Rep of: Brazzaville.
Other major cities in Congo, Rep of, Pointe-Noire
Cote D rsquo;Ivoire
Capital City in Cote D rsquo;Ivoire: Yamoussoukro.
Other major cities in Cote D rsquo;lvoire, Abidjan, Bouake, Daloa, Korhogo, San-Pedro
Djibouti
Capital City in Djibouti: Djibouti.
Other major cities in Djibouti, Ali Sabieh, Tadjoura, Obock, Dikhil, Arta, Holhol, Dorra
Egypt
Capital City in Egypt: Cairo.
Other major cities in Egypt, Alexandria, Al Jizah, Bur sa Id, Suez, Al Mahallah Al Kubra
Equatorial Guinea
Capital City in Equatorial Guinea: Malabo.
Other major cities in Equatorial Guinea, Bata, Ebebiyin, Aconibe, Ansoc, Luba, Evinayong
Eritrea
Capital City in Eritrea: Asmara.
Other major cities in Eritrea, Mendefera, Barentu, Adi Keyh, Idi, Dekemhare, Akurdet
Ethiopia
Capital City in Ethiopia: Addia Ababa.
Other major cities in Ethiopia, Dire Dawa, Nazret, Bahir Dar, Gonder, Dese, Awasa
Gabon
Capital City in Gabon: Libreville.
Other major cities in Gabon, Port-Gentil, Fanceville, Oyem, Moanda, Mouila, Lambarene
Gambia
Capital City in Gambia: Banjul.
Other major cities in Gambia, Brikama, Bakau, Farafenni, Lamin, Sukuta, Basse Santa Su
Ghana
Capital City in Ghana: Accra.
Other major cities in Ghana, Kumasi, Tamale, Takoradi, Achiaman, Tema, Teshi, Cape Coast
Guinea
Capital City in Guinea: Conakry.
Guinea-Bissau
Capital City in Guinea-Bissau: Bissau.
Kenya
Capital City in Kenya: Nairobi.
Other major cities in Kenya, Mombasa, Nakuru, Eldoret, Kisumu, Thika, Kitale, Malindi
Lesotho
Capital City in Lesotho: Maseru.
Other major cities in Lesotho, Mafeteng, Leribe, Maputsoe, Qach rsquo;a Nek, Quthing
Liberia
Capital City in Liberia: Monrovia.
Other major cities in Liberia, Gbarnga, Harper, Buchanan, Zwedru, New Yekepa.
Libya
Capital City in Libya: Tripoli.
Other major cities in Libya, Banghazi, Tarhunah, Al Khums, Harat Az Zawiyah, Zuwarah
Madagascar
Capital City in Madagascar: Antananarivo.
Other major cities in Madagascar, Toamasina, Fianarantsoa, Mahajanga, Toliara
Malawi
Capital City in Malawi: Lilongwe.
Other major cities in Malawi, Blantyre, Zomba, Kasungu, Mangochi, Karonga, Salima
Mali
Capital City in Mali: Bamako.
Other major cities in Mali, Sikasso, Mopti, Koutiala, Kayes Ndi, Segou, Gao, Markala
Mauritius
Capital City in Mauritius: Port Louis.
Other major cities in Mauritius, Curepipe, Quatre Bornes, Triolet, Goodlands
Mauritania
Capital City in Mauritania: Nouakchott.
Morocco
Capital City in Morocco: Rabat.
Other major cities in Morocco, Casablanca, Fez, Marrakech, Agadir, Tangiers
Mozambique
Capital City in Mozambique: Maputo.
Other major cities in Mozambique, Matola, Beira, Nampula, Chimoio, Nacala
Namibia
Capital City in Namibia: Windhoek.
Niger
Capital City Niger: Niamey.
Other major cities in Niger, Zinder, Maradi, Agadez
Nigeria
Capital City in Nigeria: Abuja.
Other major cities in Nigeria, Kano, Ibadan, Kaduna, Port Harcourt, Benin, Lagos, Onitsha
Reunion
Capital City in Reunion: Saint Denis.
Rwanda
Capital City in Rwanda: Kigali.
Other major cities in Rwanda, Butare, Gisenyi, Byumba, Cyangugu
Sao Tome and Principe
Capital City in Sao Tome and Principe: Sao Tome.
Senegal
Capital City in Senegal: Dakar.
Other major cities in Senegal, Thies, Kaolack, Ziguinchor, Saint Louis, Mbour, Diurbel
Seychelles
Capital City in Seychelles: Victoria
Sierra Leone
Capital City in Sierra Leone: Freetown.
Other major cities in Sierra Leone, Koidu, Makeni
Somalia
Capital City in Somalia: Mogadishu.
Other major cities in Somalia, Hargeysa, Berbera, kisimayo, Marka
South Africa
Capital City in South Africa: Pretoria.
Other major cities in South Africa, Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Soweto
Sudan
Capital City in Sudan: Khartoum.
Other major cities in Sudan, Omdurman, Kassala, Al Ubayyid, Kusti, Al Fashir
Swaziland
Capital City in Swaziland: Mbabane.
Other major cities in Swaziland, Manzini, Big Bend, Malkerns, Mhlume
Tanzania
Capital City in Tanzania: Dar Es Salaam.
Other major cities in Tanzania, Mwanza, Zanzibar, Morogoro, Mbeya, Tanga
Togo
Capital City in Togo: Lome.
Other major cities in Togo, Sokode
Tunisia
Capital City in Tunisia: Tunis.
Other major cities in Tunisia, Sfax, Susah, Kairouan, Bizerte, Gabes
Uganda
Capital City in Uganda: Kampala.
Other major cities in Uganda, Gula, Lira, Jinja, Bwizibwera, Mbale, Mukono
Western Sahara
Capital City in Western Sahara: Laayoune.
Zambia
Capital City in Zambia: Lusaka.
Other major cities in Zambia, Kitwe, Ndole, Kabwe, Chingola, Mufulira
Zimbabwe
Capital City in Zimbabwe: Harare.
Other major cities in Zimbabwe, Bulawayo, Chitungwiza, Mutare, Gweru

Book Cheap Airfare, Hostels and Budget Hotels Online in Africa and Worldwide http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Trip__Planner/ Tips and Ideas to make your Travel Planning easy and Hassle Free

Today, travel can be a hectic, stressful, amp; tiresome experience ndash; the opposite of why one decides to go on holiday. Here is a series of travel tips and insights intended to make your journey smoother and more trouble free. They rsquo;re organized in sections which explore the various aspects of travel ranging from choosing a destination, to planning an itinerary, booking flights and accommodations and navigating your way through airports.

Because many folks travel infrequently, they overlook some of the things one can do to make their travel less of a hassle. Hopefully you will find a tid-bit of two here which makes your own journey easier.

Planning your trip
middot; Establish a rough budget for your trip. Are you looking for a cheap/inexpensive trip or are you looking to splurge? Knowing approximately what you want to spend helps you to outline the scope amp; character of your trip.
middot; Take some time to research your destination. Your trip will be so much more meaningful if you know something about the place, the people, and the sights before you get there.
middot; Pick up a travel guidebook, which describes your destination and details the sights, activities, museums and dining opportunities. Better to know before you get there when the prime season begins amp; ends or which venues require special reservations.
middot; Surf the web for web sites, which have organized information, and message forums where you can post questions and read about the experiences and opinions of other travellers.
middot; If you rsquo;re visiting a foreign country, pick up a pocket-sized phrase book which gives you a few basic things to say (hello, thank you, where is hellip; etc.). It might come in handy when shopping or dining. You don rsquo;t need to be an expert linguist, just someone who can say a few polite things, which might create some goodwill when you rsquo;re lost or hungry.

Book it
middot; It rsquo;s a hard call, now-a-days to say when the best time to book your travel is. Best advice is don rsquo;t wait too long searching for those ldquo;cheap seats rdquo;.
middot; Airfares are generally rising with each passing month. Don rsquo;t expect miracle prices with today rsquo;s airfares. Book a flight, which comes close to matching your budget.
middot; Keep in mind that fees and penalties apply for most airline tickets if you need to cancel or change an itinerary. Think and plan ahead carefully before booking that plane trip.
middot; Room accommodations may be booked 50 weeks in advance at most hotels. If you find a better deal later on, you can most usually cancel your hotel reservation at no cost.
middot; Be aware that some highly discounted accommodation rates do indeed have restrictions/limitations. Always read the terms and conditions of every reservation before confirming it.
middot; Balance the importance of cost versus location. Sometimes the best accommodation is not the cheapest, but rather the one, which situates you close to key attractions or has good proximity to public transit. Many booking sites help you find the best location for your needs.
middot; Some folks feel more comfortable purchasing trip insurance. Decide for yourself, but always read the T amp;C before purchasing.
Book Cheap Hostels Accommodation Online | Discount Hotels Accommodation Worldwide

A few days before departure:
middot; Make a categorized list of every item you intend to bring with you. You may need to do this list a couple of times as you rethink things, but it makes you aware of what you do and do not need to bring with you ndash; remember, you are the ldquo;mule rdquo; who is going to carry this stuff.
middot; Also make a ldquo;to do rdquo; list for tasks like cancelling the mail, letting the police or neighbours know you will away and when you will return.
middot; Make copies, of your passports, driver rsquo;s licenses, flight and hotel itineraries. Remember to safeguard your identity documents.
middot; Start to organize, and set aside some of the clothing and toiletries that you will bring along. This will help to make packing a less arduous task.
middot; Notify your credit card company if you rsquo;re travelling abroad so that when those charges start rolling in from Italy, your card is not denied in the store.

The night before
middot; Take out you check list and your ldquo;to do rdquo; list and move through them as you pack and organize your bags. Last minute changes always pop up.
middot; Be sure to set aside a change of underwear or a bathing suit etc. in your carry-on bag just in case the baggage gods are not very kind and your flight arrives, but your checked bags do not.
middot; Likewise if checking more than one bag, be sure to divide your clothing between them. This way if one bag turns up missing, everyone has something to wear while awaiting the missing bag.
middot; Think long and hard about what you are packing. This is the time to decide if you really need those extra shoes.
middot; If your bags seem too heavy, weigh them. Remember that airlines do have weight restrictions and they are rigorously enforcing them. A few European airlines are especially restrictive. If in doubt, weigh your bag and check with your airline.
middot; Use on-line check in (OLCI) to check in with your airline and to confirm seat assignments. This way you need only check your baggage at the airport.

The Big Day arrives
middot; Go on-line and check your airline rsquo;s flight status prior to leaving the house. This is especially necessary if there rsquo;s already bad weather, which may be affecting arrivals and departures.
middot; It rsquo;s your last chance to be sure that you have your wallet, money, and passport before you leave the house.
middot; Also run through the house to make sure you rsquo;ve turned off computers, irons, faucets and anything else the kids can touch amp; leave on or open and that you rsquo;ve got all doors and windows locked (don rsquo;t laugh, crazy stuff happens ndash; Viajeguy once had to deal with a leaking water heater on the way out the door, so it was worth the look).
middot; Leave for the airport with plenty of time to spare. This means that you want to present yourself at the check-in counter 3 hours in advance for an international flight and 2 hours prior for domestic or internal flights.
middot; Keep in mind that airlines have their own policy about how late you can check in for your flight. Restrictions are tighter for international travel, especially in Europe. Also be aware that airlines accept checked luggage up to a certain time before departure. If you present your self with too little time prior to your flight departure, you may still make your flight, but your checked baggage may not (and the airline is not responsible for delivering it to you gratis).

At the Airport
middot; Keep your essential documents (passport, ID, record locater numbers) within easy reach for check-in and security. If you rsquo;re a family, have one individual hold these documents and dole them out when needed.
middot; Hopefully you used OLCI to ease your burden at the airline kiosks.
middot; Don rsquo;t get caught up in the confusion at the counter. Be sure that you get your passport/ID back, that you have your boarding passes, and that you have your checked baggage receipts (I like to immediately place my baggage receipt in my wallet).
Airport Security
middot; Gather your party and get organized with boarding passes etc before you head over to security screening where you will need your boarding pass and ID to join the queue.
middot; Remember that you may not carry any liquids (soda, water, juice) through security, so this is the time to have the kids drink up as you hit the security queues.
middot; As you wait in the queue, remove loose change, cell phones, amp; any metal objects from your pockets. Slip them into your carry on bag. Fewer objects to worry about during the security walk through means less stress and less distraction for you.
middot; Remember that strict limits exist for liquids/gels in carry-on baggage. Place these toiletry items in a zip lock bag, which can be removed during x-ray screening.
middot; If you rsquo;re carrying a lap top computer, remove it from its case and place it into a tray at the screening queue.
middot; Keep your eyes open to see if folks are required to remove their shoes before passing through security. In the United States, this is common practice, but it varies in other countries. In Spain for example, you most usually keep your shoes on, but they want you to remove your cintur oacute;n (belt).
middot; Keep your wits about you after walking through security screening. Keep an eye on bags, lap tops etc. as you retrieve your belongings and repack laptops etc. Make sure that you have your wallet, boarding passes and passports when you leave security
middot; Find a seat and relax as you wait for boarding to be called. Now is the time to purchase a water bottle, a magazine, or a sandwich.

Boarding
middot; OK, you got to the airport, made it through check-in and security, and you rsquo;ve endured sitting and waiting as airport chaos moves around you.
middot; Many people will use this time to pick up a bottle of water to carry on. Not a bad idea since the cabins have dry air, which can be dehydrating on a longer flight.
middot; Usually the airline begins the boarding process some 30 to 40 minutes to posted departure time (you can find boarding time printed on your boarding pass)
middot; Organize yourself one last time before preparing to join the boarding queues.
middot; If you brought an I-Pod or a book, now is the time to remove it from your bag and slip them into a pocket. The idea here is that you want to get onto the plane, find your seat, and quickly hoist your carry-on into the overhead bin and take your seat all in one motion. (Nothing makes Viajeguy madder than the knuckle-head who walks into the cabin and decides to go rooting through his bag for all of the things he should have out and in hand prior to boarding while folks wait in the aisle to get past).
middot; Most airlines board by zones or seat numbers. Don rsquo;t push the queue. Check your zone/seat number and wait until you hear your zone called out. If the folks in your party have different boarding zones, they are allowed to board together as a group.

That rsquo; it! You rsquo;ve made it through the process and you rsquo;re finally on your way. Hopefully some of these hints have proven helpful to you and make your journey just a bit easier.

By Viajeguy

More Stories From Viajeguy

London Travel Guide
A La Carte Airline Pricing http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_Hagen__Dazs/ Hagen-Dazs is not just a girls best friend but a mans best mate to keep the girls happy.

Now days to have fun and hang out with friends in Leicester Square in London, does not have to mean getting drunk and going clubs. There are a lot of alternatives one of them is Hagen-Dazs Restaurant Leicester Square.

Haagen-Dazs flagship store in Leicester Square, London is a whole new experience of ice cream indulgence and social networking; Hagen-Dazs Leicester Square has become one of the coolest hang outs in Leicester Square and the West End of London, for tourists, students, backpackers, Families and lovers.

Hagen-Dazs Leicester Square is always a buzz with people, especially on Friday and Saturday Nights. No matter the day, you can always enjoy a chat with friends and family over selections of cocktails, and mouth watering ice creams in Hagen-Dazs.

What is great about this about Hagen-Dazs Leicester Square, is no-one can resist Hagen-Dazs ice cream, a smooth cocktail, a piece of cake or brownie and a great view onto one of the trendiest areas in London, Leicester Square.

Another great feature of Hagen-Dazs Leicester Square is the great architecture of the building Hagen-Dazs is in, the building is right in the centre of all the action. From the amazing views, from the first floor of Hagen-Dazs you can see the whole of Leicester Square, and just watch the world go by. If you happen to be in Hagen-Dazs Leicester Square, on the day of a movie premier, it rsquo;s like a front row seat, first class ticket, with added benefit of Ice Cream!

To the ground floor lounge area and take away, so if you rsquo;re on the move, and can rsquo;t stop, there rsquo;s no excuse not to have some Hagen-Dazs.

Hagen-Dazs Leicester Square, you could say is one of the must visit places in London and shouldn rsquo;t be missed your eyes and tummy will not be disappointed. http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_High__Airfares__and__Crude__Oil__Prices/ Lower Fuel Costs Equal Lower Air Fares ndash; We Wish

Airlines for months now have been increasing their Air fare almost through the roof and charging customers for everything they can lay their hands on, from Fuel surcharges, checking in Luggage fees, Charging for Pillow and Blankets to Paying for Drinks and food. Their excuse has been the high cost of fuel.

Now the cost of Crude Oil is dropping, the question is, when are the Airlines going to decrease the prices of their fares to reflect the reduced cost of fuel?

Airlines were quick to make increases and add additional charges because of the high fuel costs, I rsquo;m sure its going to be a slow a long process for them to decrease the prices, if they make any decreases at all.

Customers have no choice but to pay the prices the Airlines Charge, but the price should be a true reflection of the costs incurred. No-one wants Airline companies to loose money but it is clear that if the price of Crude Oil drops the Cost goes down for the airline, this saving should in turn be passed onto the customer, by decreasing the Air fare prices.

Only time will tell if any changes by the Airlines will be implemented, but I am not very hopeful that the Travellers will benefit from this decrease in Crude Oil Prices.

Somebody asked me a question the other day, why does a direct Economy Flight from London England to Lagos Nigeria cost up to pound;850 about $1600? Which is about five and a half hours flight, and then an Economy Flight from London England to Sydney Australia which is about twenty hours costs a lot less, almost half?

It seems to me that it is not only the cost of Fuel that impacts the price of Air fare, in this case a direct flight from London England to Lagos Nigeria, is monopolised by British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Nigeria, which is also operated by Virgin Group.

As you can see airlines are being disingenuous in their argument and its high time the Airlines offer customers Value for Money, even in the less competitive routes like London, Lagos.

It is impossible to get by today without travelling, by car, train or plane. People do not only travel for pleasure and holidays but also as an every day part of life, for Business and making a living. The costs and charges incurred by travelling should reflect the value in service received by the traveller.

Book Cheap Hostels amp; Budget Hotels Worldwide with Hostels247.com http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_London__Travel__guide/ What to do and How to get around in London by Viajeguy

London is a world class city with a myriad of things to see and do. It matters not if you are a first time visitor or a returning veteran; there is always something new to do in London. The following suggestions should help you to get the most out of your own London visit.

Be flexible when you visit London. Arrive with a list of places to visit and things to do, but don rsquo;t come with a rigid itinerary. Be prepared to juggle your schedule to match London rsquo;s slightly unpredictable weather. Save outdoor venues for those sunny or at least bright days amp; fit museums and shopping into those wet or rainy days. Bring a small umbrella for those wet moments amp; flow around the weather. Rain in the morning can turn out to be sun in the afternoon. Maximize your time during your London visit. Familiarize yourself with the opening hours of the various museums. Many have one or two weekdays during which they remain open late. This creates a perfect opportunity to cram more places into your London itinerary ( and encounter smaller crowds at certain museums ). Above all things, London is a walking city. Pick up a pocket street map amp; hit the streets. Identify the main streets, but be sure to venture upon the small parallel streets which are quieter, less-crowed, and have their own sights to see. Don rsquo;t be taken back by London rsquo;s zigzag streets and lanes. You rsquo;ll pop out on a familiar street sooner or later. Utilize the London Underground to hop from one side of town to the other. Busses are good for late night travel after the Underground closes and for short hops. If you rsquo;re in London for a week or more, consider an Oyster Card which offers the best value amp; is good on both the Underground amp; busses. Taxis are a bit expensive, but are useful when rushing to the theater or dinner. Avoid purchasing theater tickets from touts . . . their seats are cheap, but often offer limited views. Purchase theater seats from your hotel concierge, or the official theater ticket agency located in Leicester Square. Remember, you can also get seats the day of a performance by stopping at the box office. During peak season, it is useful to pre-purchase admission tickets for venues such as the Tower of London, Madam Tussauds, amp; the London Dungeon so as to avoid the long queues at the door. If you rsquo;re planning on taking a ride on the London Eye, keep an ldquo;eye rdquo; open for good weather to go with the fantastic views. Also consider an evening ride. More Stories From Viajeguy

A La Carte Airline Pricing
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Book Cheap Hostels and Discount Hotels Accommodation in London http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_A__La__Carte__Airline__Pricing/ Unbundling is not all bad by Viajeguy

Unbundling is the airlines rsquo; latest attempt to retrench amp; redefine their business model in the face of rising fuel costs and a sagging world economy which in turn creates a cash hemorrhage amongst beleaguered airlines. Unbundling ( also called a la carte pricing ) both reduces/eliminates services ( such as free meals or snacks ) and it creates additional fees ( for checked baggage charges, in-flight beverages, amp; redeeming FF miles ). It rsquo;s a parallel process to other price increases such as fuel surcharges for each ticket. On the whole, unbundling is a mostly rational response by airlines as they grapple with rising costs and shrinking revenues. It is also a flash point for consumer anger and discontent.

By far, the most controversial consequence of unbundling is charging passengers for each piece of checked baggage. Formerly, passengers were allowed to check two bags free of charge provided they met weight and size requirements. Today, most American carriers charge fees ranging from $15 to $50 for each checked bag. Passenger reaction has been that of outrage and complaints that the fees are ldquo;unfair rdquo;. A prevailing response is that airlines should simply charge more for the ticket instead of nickel and diming customers. This belief as it turns out, is misinformed.

In truth, these new baggage fees are quite rational and inherently fair to the aggregate of passengers. They identify strata of passengers who do indeed create additional costs to the airline which the airline in turn passes directly to the individual who creates that cost. Admittedly, it is hard to believe that the airlines have come up with a rational response which is specifically targeted, but it rsquo;s true. How so?

Airlines have indeed raised airfares in response to rising fuel costs, but this alone is not enough to stem their cash hemorrhage. When airlines examine who checks bags and who does not, it turns out that infrequent flyers, those folks fly only occasionally tend to check more baggage than other types of fliers ( and weight requires more fuel consumption which in turn raises costs ).

Airline elites, those folks who belong to the airline rsquo;s frequent flyer program (FF), fly frequently, and have flown enough annual qualifying miles to earn a special tier status within the airline rsquo;s FF program tend to pack lighter, travel more efficiently and tend to carry-on their baggage rather than checking it. This all means less cost to the airline. Another important factor is that airline elites ( frequently business flyers ) also tend to purchase higher fare tickets. They, like all customers are paying fuel surcharges as well as assorted booking fees for telephone reservations, itinerary changes and FF award redemption fees. Airlines fear alienating this valuable group of regular customers by simply raising fares to address aggregate baggage costs.

Infrequent flyers may not like or approve of the new checked baggage fees, but in this instance, airlines have indeed managed to correctly identify a specific source of costs and they pass this cost onto those passengers only.

Of course there are untoward consequences from any change. One of these flows from more folks electing to carry-on their baggage ( and hence avoid the checked baggage fees ). This means that one should anticipate intense competition for overhead space in the cabins as infrequent flyer folks try to cram their belongings into smaller sized carry-on bags. The real lesson here is to learn to pack and travel light -- less is more, at least when it comes to flying. Airline elites will also have to persist with the crowded cabins, but they at least enjoy preferred boarding which means they may queue for early and at least find open overhead space. But this is a perk earned by product loyalty and butt-in-seat flying and money spent to fly.

A positive aspect of unbundling and checked baggage fees is that infrequent flyers are either learning to fly lighter or they check less bags. Less checked bags means that baggage handlers have an easier task and this in turn should result in improved baggage handling and less mishandled amp; lost bags. Thus far, only one American airline, Southwest, has resisted the airline embrace of checked baggage fees and actually advertises that they will never charge for a checked bag. Perhaps wishful thinking, but also an example that competition is alive and well in the American airline industry, even in these difficult times.

More Stories From Viajeguy

Trip Planner
London Travel Guide

Book Cheap Hostels | Reserve Discount Hotels accommodation | Group Booking http://www.hostels247.com/hostel_247blog_World__Credit__Crunch/ Blame Ourselves for the Housing Bubble America's financial and economic woes continue to mount and multiply. With them, so too do the woes of the global economy. The US government takeover of mortgage giants Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae is followed by the bankruptcy of finance giant Lehman Brothers during which time Treasury secretary Paulson assures that the United States government is not going to bail out failing companies. Two days later, the US government rescues insurance giant AIG with an $85 billion bridge loan which suddenly makes American taxpayers owners of AIG. What does it all mean? It means that we live in a complex economic world which grows increasingly interconnected. When one nation's economy coughs, another nation sneezes. It also speaks to the complexity of life in which neither erudite economists or self-assured bankers understand what is going on any more than the average consumer on the street. Although the tendency is to feign incredulity and point fingers at quot;greedy quot; CEOs whilst castigating governments and politicians ( Mr. Obama has this game down pat ), the truth is much simpler. When individual consumers and investors behave badly ( or make faulty choices/decisions) , bankers, brokers, and CEOs can also follow suit making their own poor decisions. And government will always behave like government which is to say that they are the last to act and do not always make good decisions either. America and the world do not end up in this tumultuous situation overnight. It's been a long process building for many years. It derives from misguided assumptions by all sorts of parties; careless optimism by individuals, poor diligence by businesses, greed in the board rooms and executive offices of corporations, lack of sufficient oversight by governments and plain and simple arrogance by politicians who feign incredulity and meddle with affairs without providing positive assistance. No, in this instance we share responsibility for events. Unfortunately, it's the folks at the bottom who get stepped on the hardest. But wait! It does seem that some of those wealthy business elites are also getting spanked on this one. Not a cause for celebration, but certainly heartening to turn and see a suit standing astride you in the slit trench everyone has fallen into. In America several factors lay behind the current crisis. It begins back in the 90s when banks and other financial institutions frenetically issue credit cards to folks with doubtful credit histories. Many folks see easy credit as an excuse to buy now and pay later, despite credit card interest rates of 18% to 28%. These anxious spenders gleefully take the cards and rack up mountains of credit card debt while they assuage every desire for instant gratification. The habit of spend today and pay tomorrow is burned into the brains of millions of carefree folks who ignore budgets amp; consequences of excessive debt or self responsibility. Of course, the banks, whose bad debt ratios rise don't mind since everyone seems to be happy. Consumer irresponsibility becomes a habit which grows exponentially along with consumer debt. This in turn fuels a salutary response amongst banks and businesses who discard discipline amp; caution in favor of chasing the rising wave of consumer demand. Finance banks step into the market and up the ante. The target? Home ownership. There follows a 10 to 15 year period during which home ownership becomes the mantra of bankers, finance banks, mortgage brokers, and politicians - while anxious consumers queue the housing line. Call this an age of unbridled housing optimism. But in defense of this optimism, it should be noted that Americans are an especially optimistic people. Home ownership is one of the foundations of the American dream and a tangible measure of individual success. One can not completely blame individuals aspiring ownership or politicians who encourage home ownership for more folks, especially first-time buyers. Both presidents Clinton and Bush encourage markets to open up and allow more individuals to participate in credit; in time this becomes pursuit of home ownership. It's both an earnest gesture to individuals trying to climb the ladder of success, and wise politics to encourage home ownership. Of course when things go sour, folks naturally throw hand grenades at the last guy standing which in America, means president Bush. But what is Mr. Bush guilty of? He simply echoes the whims and desires of individuals, financiers, builders, and politicians who all queue on behalf of the American dream. This housing circus is a consequence of individuals making poor/misinformed decisions which are then echoed and amplified by aiding and abetting home builders, banks, financial institutions, and politicians. Once unleashed, this housing juggernaut becomes a fast train speeding towards the end of the tracks. And no single brake man can stop it. In essence, individuals queue up for mortgages for which many of them in no way, shape, or form qualify for - does a babysitter really qualify for a $700K mortgage on a California house? In many cases government agencies and lenders do not requi