Vacation Locations

Important Information Before Going to Brazil

Brazil has a very diverse culture and a wonderful climate.  Summer starts in December and ends in February in this South American country.  So before going on a trip to Brazil, one has to have enough information on what to bring.  Here are a few tips to help in deciding in what to prepare for a trip to this fine country.

* Protect your photo equipment and other equipment sensitive to humidity.

Humidity is high in Brazil.  Sealable plastic bags are also useful, so make sure to bring some.

* Bring your medication and prescription.

If you brought some medication, make sure you declare it at the Customs.  There are also some drugs that can be bought from the chemist without a prescription.

* Buy mosquito repellent and sun block when you get there.

These are of good quality and are suitable formulated for the conditions of the country.

* Get Hepatitis shots before leaving for Brazil.

Hepatitis A, B and C cases are prevalent in Brazil.  Also, always wash your hands before eating.  Use appropriate disinfectants and antiseptics.

* Pack light

Most air carriers have a luggage limit of 20 kilos.  Having your clothes washable and mix-matched for different look is more advisable than carrying more clothes.  When not on a business trip, pack casual clothes as most Brazilians dress casually.

* Keep copies of all your important documents.

You may leave copies of these with a friend back home, or keep copies in a separate location from the originals.  You can also email the copies to yourself.

* Bring a pair of sandals

If the reason for the trip to Brazil is the beaches, then a pair of sandals, together with one’s bathing suit and hat is necessary.

* Bring some deodorant and perfume.

One sweats too here and these essentials are very handy.

* Never leave your belongings unattended.

If you can settle for disposable cameras, then, do so.

* Learn some Portuguese.

Knowledge of Portuguese can help when communicating with the locals.  English, Spanish, German, French and Italian are also spoken in tourist areas.

* Have valid entry documents.

One’s passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.  Foreign tourists are given a maximum of 180 days to stay in 1 year. Renewals for 90 days may be obtained from Policia Federal.

* Have some cash handy.

Major credit cards- MasterCard, Visa, Amex and Diners - are accepted, as well as traveler’s checks.  Cash will be needed if you are going outside the major cities.

With these guidelines, one can look forward to having an enjoyable travel to Brazil.

Vacation Destination

Beautiful Cities on the Danube

If you are planning on visiting Europe then take advantage of the wonderful cities along the Danube River.  The Danube River is one of the most popular and important rivers in Europe. The Danube River has a rich history because it passes through so many wonderful European cities and countries. 

Among the many places the Danube River passes through are Germany’s Passau, Austria’s Vienna, Slovakia’s Bratislava and Hungary’s Budapest.  These are four of the most beautiful towns in Europe.  There are plenty of boat cruise tours available to see the entire water way and they operate for most of the year.  Just traveling on a boat cruise tour will show you how fast the cultures change. 

There is so much to see along the river, with tiny towns and villages.  Once you arrive at big cities such as Vienna and Bratislava you will marvel at the sheer magnificence and beauty of these cities.

There are very few rivers in the world that offer so much culture in such as short span of distance.  The Danube is a very special river to be sure.  If you are planning a European trip, then the Danube River is a great sight seeing destination that should not be missed.
 

Vacation Destination

Special Museums In Jamaica

Jamaica is far more than merely one of the finest vacation destinations in the Caribbean. It is a nation that has struggled through political, economic and social oppression. It has had a turbulent, troubled history, one that brought forth many people of strength and honor. This influence is seen in many ways, throughout all of the culture, particularly in the arts. There are many museums throughout the island, in which bits and pieces of this magnificent history can be explored and enjoyed.

Columbus Park Museum, found at Discovery Bay, is a remarkable open-air museum. Admission is free, and it is open every day, from 9am to 5pm. Here, visitors can wander through numerous exhibits of artifacts and relics, depicting the many cultural aspects and eras that have influenced the Jamaica of today. Sights include a reproduction of a wooden boat, of the style used by a native seafaring tribe, the Arawak, that inhabited the island when the Europeans arrived.

Hanover Museum, located in Lucea, is a must see location for those interested in Jamaican history and culture. It is run by the Hanover historical Society and contains numerous relics from the original Arawak inhabitants of the island, in addition to a variety of interesting items from well-known historical figures that frequented the area, including pirates. The site was once a prison and is an excellent place for children, as it offers a variety of hands-on educational experiences. A marvelous way to spend an afternoon, the museum prefers to operate by appointments, which are available from Monday through Saturday, except for on holidays, between the hours of 10am and 4pm.

Reggae is an internationally important music form that sprung up directly from the political, economic and social oppression experienced on the island. Thus, it is part of the essential rhythm and culture of the island, with several museums and historic sites devoted to its honor. Among these museums are the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston and the ReggaeXplosion in Ocho Rios.

The Bob Marley Museum is located at 56 Hope Road in Kingston, Jamaica. Once the home of the internationally known and loved music maker, it now serves as a museum. Open Monday through Saturday for guided tours that last about an hour, with the first tour taking place at 9:30 am and the last starting at 4pm, this museum houses a variety of artifacts, including a favored guitar. Photos and a remarkable mural provide insight into the life of this memorable performer and thinker.

Island Village in Ocho Rios is where the ReggaeXplosion Museum can be experienced. And, experienced is the word, as they use an exciting and informative audio and visual approach to their exhibits. In addition to special sections of the museum that are dedicated to reggae greats that include Peter Tosh, Bob Marley and Bunny Wailer, there are displays that highlight ska, dancehall, dubmasters, and mento forms. For lovers of island music and culture, this will be a memorable experience and should be considered a must see destination.   

Vacation Destination