1. Irish chefs are the best in the world according to Le Guide du Routarde http://www.independent.ie/national-news/irish-chefs-best-in-world-2489465.html my memory of eating out in Ireland a few years back totally endorses this tribute to Ireland’s slow food movement. Every meal was prepared with spell-bindin

g Irish passion and each mouthful was an exquisite experience.
2. The Irish Folk are, in my humble opinion the friendliest and funniest in the world. Just take the hop-on, hop-off bus around Dublin and you will be rocking with laughter at the bus driver’s commentary, his anecdotes are almost better than the sight-seeing. Bring your smile to the Emerald Isle and it will be returned to you 100 times!
3. Ease of access for South African travellers – it is not necessary to fly via the UK and have the hassle of a British Visa you can fly into the legendary city of Dublin via Istanbul and Abu Dhabi either on Turkish Airlines or Etihad Airlines.
4. Enjoy fresh air and beautiful scenery as you drive, cycle or walk the country roads less traveled. This is an opportunity to get off the beaten track, unwind and take in the beauty of these rural areas such as West Cork, Kerry, the Connemara region of Galway and the North West Clare – around Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher http://www.doolin-tourism.com/
5. Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle, this medieval stronghold dates back to 1446. According to Irish legend, those who kiss the Blarney Stone receive a gift of eloquence that enables one to obtain, through persuasion, anything one wants!

Blarney Castle

http://www.blarneycastle.ie/
6. For the historian a visit to one of the most famous prehistoric sites in the world Newgrange in County Meath, featuring the passage tomb of the Brú na Bóinne complex is a must. It was built so that when the dawn breaks each year on the winter solstice a narrow beam of sunlight illuminates the floor of the chamber. Well worth the visit.
7. An evening at the Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet – this most superb evening of entertainment is for the whole family. Experience the magic of Irish Traditional Music, Song & Dance with a company of finest singers, dancers and musicians from the local villages and dine on home cooked food and great wine while joining in with the lively entertainment.

Bunratty Castle and the entertainers

8. Visit the Guiness Storehouse in Dublin and enjoy a pint of of the dark nectar while admiring the views across Dublin from the Gravity Bar: http://www.guinness-storehouse.com/en/WeatherCam.aspx
9. Surfing the waves of Ireland’s coastline, such as Lahinch where the waves are good and the night-life is loads of fun. If there is a swell out in the Atlantic Lahinch will have waves.
10. Visit the the home of Ireland’s thoroughbred racehorses, the Irish National Stud and the Japanese & St Fiachra’s Gardens in County Kildare. The Gardens are an oasis of woodland and lakes.
11. Spend at least 2 nights, 3 days in Dublin visiting Trinity College, Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral, where you will find ‘The Arch’ Archbishop Emiritus, Desmond Tutu featured prominently as a guest of the Cathedral’s, a long walk in Phoenix Park, visit Kilmainham Gaol & Hospital it is really worth the visit. Spend an hour or two at Bewley’s Coffee Shop on Grafton Street http://www.bewleys.com/bewleys-grafton-street-cafeafter a shopping expedition. And be sure to visit the stylish Café en Seine on one of the nights spent in Dublin

Cafe en Seine

http://www.cafeenseine.ie/it’s stunning art deco interior is reminiscent of the turn-of-the-century France. It is a great atmosphere and you can’t leave Dublin without sapping up the atmosphere with a glass of ‘champers’ whilst listening to the excellent jazz. I can’t leave Dublin without spending at least one evening in this fabulous cocktail bar.

Lindsay Quail

Nothing ruins a holiday more than when your passport or credit card is stolen.
Fraudsters and criminals know that tourists are an easy target so be vigilant while having fun!

We suggest you avoid holiday theft of credit cards, passports and other ID documents by following the following security tips:

• Don’t display your home address on your luggage, instead use a work address or your mobile number would be best.
• We would also suggest using work addresses when checking into hotels abroad.
• Keep your ID documents separate from your debit/credit or travel cash card.
• Only take the cards you are going to use on your holiday.
• Don’t write down PINs – use a more memorable number.
• Always keep your passport locked in the room safe of your holiday hotel.
• When walking amongst crowds of people keep your bag strapped across your body or held firmly. Money belts are not the most attractive accessory but they are ideal to carry your cards and valuables
• Leave a copy of your passport with family or friends back home.
• Never let restaurant, hotel or shop staff go out of sight with your card and always check bank statements when you return home.

Bon Voyage!

Lindsay Quail

I think that Carte Blanche should do an expose on what it takes to visit America !!
Travelling to Cape Town, paying the R1100 for the interview (apart from a hotel, food etc) is just one aspect !
Getting originals of my title deeds and providing them with three months of activity on my bank account is quite another !
Don’t worry about flight costs…I’ll not be visiting America !!

Oh well, I will just have to visit Libya, stopping off in Cote Ivoire, and maybe if there is time I’ll go to Japan, I hear the northern region is very nice this time of year, and the fish and vegetables are very tasty.

Maybe I will go to China, but I am not sure if the ink on my FREE TIBET posters will be dry by then.

What is Haiti like in July ?

What is the weather like in Darfour during July – hot ?

Maybe I’ll just stay in South Africa and do the Julius Malema tour, see his birthplace, meet his schoolmates, learn a few songs.

Options lead to insanity !!

I unfortunately cannot linger I am off to Game to buy a huge screen TV and lots of videos on America, they say it is the same as being there …especially if you have surroundsound.

Did I mention that if you book here, you will need the following "easy to get items":

1/ A letter from a Doctor of more than ten years standing guaranteeing your health.

2/ Letters from three previous lodges you have stayed at certifying your behaviour and that you did not take any towels, tubs of jam, or the soap.

3/ A letter from your bank manager stating that you are in a position to pay the bill.

4/ A certified letter from your asset manager listing ALL of your assets and liabilities so that if you don’t pay, I know which assets to claim.

5/ Notarised letters from inter alia, your School Head, family members and your local police station stating that your conduct is socially acceptable.

6/ If travelling by car, I will need full details on the vehicle, if paid for, proof of payment, if on lease, a letter from the lease company stating that they do not object to your driving it in the countryside.oh yes, and you may also need a warm jersey as it can be cold at night – please send photos and descriptions of at least five suitable jerseys – the selection committee will advise you in person at our registered office in Modileng in Mpumalanga which jersey is approved. THE ORIGINAL OF THE JERSEY APPROVAL CERTIFICATE MUST ACCOMPANY YOU AND BE PRESENTED AT OUR GATE BEFORE ENTERING.
We will also perform our standard strip search on you before allowing you onto our property, but we can assure you that Willem, our guard is trained. Of course we record all strip searches for security and customer satisfaction purposes.

I clearly have too much time on my hands.

Please don’t waste any time looking into airline tickets to the USA or Europe for me !

Jann
Swartberg View Mountain Lodge.

According to the results of a new poll released by Orbitz Worldwide and Walgreens, 25 percent of the holiday travellers surveyed have had their travel plans interrupted by unexpected illness. With millions of travellers expected to travel this holiday season, it is a good idea to take note of precautionary measures one can take to minimize any possible illness.

The poll shows results from 1,000 consumers, and included questions related to the importance of preventive health measures, such as flu shots, to travellers.

Survey highlights include:

• Nearly two-thirds of all respondents (59 percent) feel travel isn’t a factor in impacting their health, however the remaining 41 percent believe that it does increase their chances of getting sick.
• The most common preventive measure people take to stay healthy while travelling over the holidays is to wash hands frequently and/or use sanitizers (58 percent). Getting a flu shot is second most common, with 29 percent who say they get one as a practice. Not over-eating was the least common response.
• Of travellers surveyed who haven’t received a flu shot, 52 percent said they don’t believe they’re effective and 26 percent said they’re afraid it may actually give them the flu. Note: According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health authorities, a person cannot get the flu from an injectable flu shot.
• Conversely, of the respondents that have gotten or plan to get a flu shot this season, 75 percent said their primary reason for doing so was as a “general precaution during the colder fall and winter months.” Nearly 15 percent got a flu shot because they are travelling over the holidays or they have children at home.
• The survey found that of respondents with health insurance, 61 percent said that flu shots are covered as a benefit under their insurance plan. Nearly one-in-five (18 percent) said they don’t know whether flu shots are covered.

The following measures are suggested for travellers to stay healthy through their holiday:

• Get a seasonal flu shot
• Wash hands frequently using soap and water or an alcohol-based rub
• Don’t touch your eyes, hands or mouth when hands haven’t been washed
• Get enough sleep – Annals of Medicine studies show those who get fewer than seven hours of sleep are three times more likely to develop a cold when exposed to the virus
• Eat right and exercise regularly.

The world’s largest privately held provider of language services and translation-related technologies, TransPerfect, presents data and offers solutions to ease future travel plans.

The most frequent obstacles to travellers when travelling in a foreign country is public transport, dining out, public signage and poorly translated websites.

TransPerfect announced survey results regarding the top four travel issues that visitors face in foreign countries. The survey indicates that communication barriers are the primary issue for travellers visiting cities abroad. Survey takers detailed the most common problems they face due to language barriers and expressed the need for easy solutions.

“The travel survey results reinforce what we already knew; travelling in a foreign country can be a fun and exciting experience, but that enjoyment is tempered by confusion when travellers encounter text they can’t understand”

According to the survey, the top four problems are:

1. Public transportation – The number one obstacle while travelling in a foreign-speaking country is navigating the public transportation system. Survey takers noted that manoeuvring transit systems is the most difficult issue.
2. Dining out – Among the top reasons this was rated number two is ordering food. Respondents shared that reading menus and communicating with the wait staff can be extremely difficult.
3. Public signage – Tourists cite not being able to read signs as a big problem when exploring cities in foreign-speaking countries.
4. Booking hotels online – Travellers are often frustrated by poorly translated websites, which can lessen their chances of booking vacations.

The TransPerfect survey also focused on which tools, tips, and solutions travellers wish they had while abroad. Responses included: mobile applications, translation dictionaries, access to interpreters and more knowledge of the local language.

“The travel survey results reinforce what we already knew; travelling in a foreign country can be a fun and exciting experience, but that enjoyment is tempered by confusion when travellers encounter text they can’t understand,” said Liz Elting, co-CEO of TransPerfect. “We help eliminate these obstacles for travel-related businesses with solutions such as GlobalLink, the travel industry’s leading software for streamlining the process of website translation. And for individual travellers, we’ve released technology such as TransPerfect’s TransImage, a free iPhone application that translates images captured with the phone’s camera, including street signs and menus.”

Lindsay Quail

The lowest prices to travel on French long distance trains are available throughout the year for travel in first or second class. The “Book Early” fares range from Paris to Avignon, Lyon, Rennes or Strasbourg from only 22€ or from Paris to Dijon from Lille from 17€.

Terms and conditions apply

JAPAN RAIL PASS

The Japan Rail Pass is available through our preferred suppliers extensive portfolio. Experience Japan’s state of the art Rail system (with the famous Shinkansen bullet trains) and dive into Japan’s amazing natural wonderlands, magnificent cultural and historical sights and modern Japanese life.
As in Europe, the Japanese railway system is so great that rail travel is one of the best ways to discover Japan.

5 different passes are available in standard or superior class. Prices start from 19€.

• the Japan Rail Pass, valid 7, 14 or 21 days
• the Japan Rail Kyushu Pass, available for 3 or 5 consecutive days
• the Japan Rail Kansai Pass, from 1 to 4 consecutive days
• the Japan Rail Sanyo Pass, valid for 4 or 8 consecutive days
• the Japan Rail Hokkaido Pass, available for 3 or 5 consecutive days

BRITRAIL LOW SEASON PROMOTION

The BritRail promotion is still available, offering 20 % discount on first and second class for the following passes :
BritRail (England) Pass
BritRail (England) Flexi Pass

Valid for sales until 15 February 2011
Valid for travel until 28 February 2011

Terms and conditions apply

Call us at Computravel or drop us an email at info@computravel.co.za for the best train travel deals around the globe.

Lindsay Quail
COMPUTRAVEL CC
Your portal to the Travel Experts.
‘Travel is our passion, your peace of mind our pledge.’
Tel: +27 (0) 21 762 0511
Fax: +27 (0) 21 762 0512
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Skype: Computravel
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It had been at least 30 odd years since my last visit so it was with some eager anticipation that I finally arrived on Friday afternoon to check-in for a three-night stay.

As I walked through the famous old doors into the foyer of the hotel, fond memories flooded back of the many times I had visited the hotel in the early 70’s, mostly to entertain business clients with extravagant seafood lunches, and the traditional oysters, which have always been synonymous with the hotel’s superb cuisine. As I stood there taking it all in, Chantal welcomed me to the hotel with a most welcome glass of very cold ‘bubbly’ (Methode Cap Classique) and the news that we had been upgraded to a Superior Garden Villa. This was a most unexpected surprise and little did we anticipate the luxury awaiting us. These charming villas are set in the lush surroundings of the tropically landscaped gardens. Each enjoys the privacy of a private plunge pool, relaxing terrace, a sumptuous bathroom and a private lounge with well stocked bar. All of this combined to recreate the grace and pace of a more elegant age. This augured well for a much anticipated long weekend. I was interested to note that these lodgings can also be extended into a 2 bed-roomed configuration simply by reserving one of the overhead Garden Villa Lofts. Just as we unpacked, the sun disappeared and the rain came down. This gave us the perfect excuse to just relax in the lounge with a glass of excellent ‘shiraz’ and devour the many interesting books and magazine that had been left for our reading pleasure.

Dinner on the first night was at the Ocean Terrace Bar, perfect for more casual dining and a great restaurant for families. This enchanting eatery offers mouthwatering Indian cuisine, as well as an a la carte menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is also the perfect backdrop for a relaxed sundowner or pre-lunch drink, elegantly enhanced by the sea facing rim flow pool. Under a red umbrella on a soft cushioned lounger on the pool terrace is where you will want to spend your day reading, chilling and reviving body, mind and soul.

The fabulous walk along the Umhlanga coastline is the busy thoroughfare of walkers, runners, locals, fisherman and tourists, and is the ideal place to walk off the lavish breakfast served at the hotel before settling down next to the pool for the day.

I could not leave The Oyster Box without trying the Spa, which I discovered, takes wellness, rest and recuperation to new limits. Their brochure promises “the highest level of personal care through its exceptionally appointed facility along with dedicated staff trained and entrusted to deliver the highest standards of spa therapy” and the promise was fulfilled. “With six modern yet peacefully decorated treatment rooms, two Hydrotherapy Baths, grooming Lounge, Nuvola Dry Floatation and Colour Therapy Bed, authentic Hammam, plunge pool, a state-of-the-art private fitness club, infinity pool with ocean views and post treatment tranquility lounge , guests are guaranteed an indulgence in all of the ways that make them feel celebrated and sensational.” All that I can add to this is that my Sunday morning spent at the Spa was an escape to a pampered paradise.

Dinner at the Grill Room on Saturday evening was a grand affair, the cuisine mouthwatering, the wine superb, and the service friendly. Last but not least a whirl on the dance floor added an extra dimension to the occasion.

Staying here demands a plate of chilled fresh oysters picked from the rocks in front of the lodgings and enjoyed in the famous Oyster Bar with a glass or bottle of your favourite ‘bubbly’. It’s a tradition that gave this famous hotel its name. And the celebrated wine cellar is the ideal spot for a small celebration, be it a birthday, anniversary or even a small and intimate wedding. While we were enjoying a late Friday night cocktail in the bar I could not help noticing the revelry below, all of which was visible through the glass floor of the Oyster Bar. What a place for a party.
The lighthouse bar with its breathtaking, panoramic views of Umhlanga and the restless sea is where we watched Saturday afternoon Curry Cup Rugby. As the rain poured down outside so we celebrated with the Shark supporters by quaffing beers and cocktails while the local lads won the game in the eleventh hour. This is a timeless venue to meet friends for a drink and snack while watching sports on a big high definition flat screen.

Monday morning arrived all too soon. The sun was in full glory and the sky a cerulean blue. It was the perfect end to a weekend I certainly hope to repeat on a regular basis. One night at the Oyster Box and the world really is your ‘oyster’! For the ultimate getaway this is where you should be heading, but do at least four nights as three is not nearly enough.

Oh and how could I forget to mention the elaborate high tea served in the afternoon…totally decadent to say the least! And I must also mention the cutest little cinema where you can watch your favourite movie along with all the trappings of popcorn and delectable sweets in tall glass jars.

After breakfast Khanyi, the sales executive, very kindly took me to see the other rooms in the hotel which were individually different and unique – but all of them very much in synch with the hotels tradition and ethos.

This is a perfect setting for a destination wedding followed by a short honeymoon. So if you are planning one, the Oyster Box will fulfill the most unrealistic romantic expectations.

Lindsay Quail

Great movies shot in exotic locations around the world whet the appetites of many an audience captured in the moment of insatiable backdrops splashed across a movie screen in a darkened theatre. Eat, Pray and Love starring Julia Roberts is certainly going to infuse a sense of wanderlust amongst most viewers who will be planning their next trip to Italy, India or Bali as they leave the theatre. The following is an article from Jennifer McDermott of Insight Vacations which may offer you just the sort of holiday you may be after having read the book or seen the film or both!

Eat, Love and Pray in Italy with Insight Vacations
So you’ve read the book, you’re counting down until the movie and no doubt are dying to have your own Eat, Love, Pray experience á la Elizabert Gilbert in her best selling memoir. Treat yourself to a break from day-to-day humdrum and reach ultimate enlightenment on Insight’s eight-day Italian Intermezzo.
You’ll eat (bottomless bowls of pasta and perfectly crispy pizza); love (spectacular sights, no summertime crowds) and pray (in some of the holiest of churches in the world) as you leisurely make your way around Rome, Venice and Florence. With two-night stays in each of these hotspots, you’ll have plenty of time to soak up each city and have the very experience you dreamed of.

The eight-day Italian Intermezzo comes at an extremely good price and departures available from 6 November, 2010 until 26 March, 2011.

Some of the many highlights include:

• Discover the wonders of ancient Rome as you overlook the Forum and visit the Colosseum
• Tour the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, a masterpiece of Michelangelo’s fresco skills
• Tour St Peter’s Basilica, mother church of the Catholic faith
• Cruise to St Mark’s Square by private launch past San Giorgio Maggiore and see St Mark’s Basilica, Doges’ Palace and the Bridge of Sighs
• Admire Michelangelo’s ‘Statue of David’ at the Academy Museum in Florence
• See the Cathedral, ‘Gates of Paradise’ on the Baptistery and Signoria Square in Florence
• Visit Santa Croce Church to see the tombs of Michelangelo and Galileo
• Experience demonstrations of traditional Florence leatherwork and Venetian glass-blowing
• Enjoy a short tutorial about the world famous Chianti wines of Tuscany. .

The Insight difference

Insight guests enjoy more intimate groups, limited to just 40 passengers, the services of an experienced tour director and the assurance of staying in select hotels which are centrally or scenically located. Insight guests travel in style on Insight’s luxury reconfigured coaches with more legroom and comfort so the journey is as enjoyable as the destination.

Plus, Insight offers the added value of exclusive included premium highlights worth hundreds of dollars and range of Personal Insights, which offer a unique and revealing look into the history, culture and legends of each destination visited. It’s these differences which ensure every Insight journey is smooth and hassle free, so you’ll have time to fully enjoy each destination.

Viaggi sicuri!

Lindsay Quail

Well, although most of these problems might be out of your control, the last one could be avoided. So, when you plan your next trip to Mauritius or Thailand, you’ll be free and clear when it comes to your luggage.

CHOOSE LUGGAGE WISELY

The first rule of packing involves knowing how to choose good luggage. This involves determining whether or not your suitcase is going to rip, break and if it can be easily opened. You need top-quality for peace of mind.

Make sure the luggage you choose has water-resistant material inside. Many people have opened their suitcases only to discover a puddle of liquid sitting at the bottom and eating away at their expensive clothes.

A quick tip: Line the bottom of your suitcase with a few plastic bags, which can later be used as laundry bags.

PACK ONLY THE ESSENTIALS

When going on a trip for more than five days, you will need to carefully assess which items are essential. You wouldn’t want to be stuck on your third day with nothing but dirty underwear. The following is a checklist of all of the essentials you will need to pack right for any trip:

Toiletries

Toothbrush, mouthwash, toothpaste, floss (traveling abroad doesn’t mean your breath has to start stinking like the local farm animals), comb, nail clippers, shaving cream, razor, cotton balls, cologne, and moisturizer. If you’re not picky about shampoos and conditioners, then don’t bother packing your own; hotels usually provide them.

Hot climate essentials

When traveling to warmer climates, remember to bring plenty of sunscreen to practice proper skin care. Just in case you get a nasty burn, bring along some burn cream or spray. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses too.

Important documents

In order to pack right for any trip, you must not forget to bring the following documents: plane ticket, driver’s license, passport, health insurance card, calling card, credit cards, traveler’s checks, and a couple of business cards (you never know what kind of contacts you might make). You will also discover (if you haven’t already) that hotels can forget who you are when checking in, so bring your confirmation number and reservation documents with you.

Garments

Bring ample amounts of socks and underwear. If you’re going on a business trip then focus on formal wear and bring a couple of casual items for your own comfort. Otherwise, if traveling for pleasure, pack all of your T-shirts and G-strings, and have fun. Bringing a light jacket can also help during those rainy days, or bring a snow jacket if traveling to the majestic north.

IMPORTANT BUT NONESSENTIAL ITEMS

Although not as important as the essential items, you may want to carefully consider some nonessential items as well. Here are some more things to consider when packing for a trip.

Watch/alarm clock

We once stayed at a hotel that had a unique art-nouveau alarm clock for us to use. Real fancy stuff. Unfortunately, overnight, the power went out and the alarm clock was reset. We looked like a fool when we showed up for our meeting an hour late the next morning. We learned a valuable lesson that day: Bring your own watch or travel alarm clock. To be extra careful, ask for a wake-up call if the hotel provides it.

Pack of gum

Chewing gum can do three important things: refresh your breath, repress hunger for a while and depressurize your ears while flying at 30,000 feet.

Your favorite MP3 player

Many hotels now include docking stations for MP3 players in their rooms, as do many rental cars. If you have such a device, it’ll help you pass the time while possibly giving you a topic of conversation with a random stranger.

Medication

You don’t want to be stuck with an awful headache or heartburn during your whole trip. Here are some meds you might need: Tylenol, Aspirin, antacids, and Imodium (for upset stomach).

Bug repellent

While recently traveling to the Caribbean, we discovered that mosquitoes are not only native to New York. They are even more vicious down south (and harder to see since they’re extremely small critters). You may also encounter sand mites and fleas. Thus, make sure to pack bug repellent and creams.

Entertainment

Magazines, playing cards or mini electronic games will come in handy to help pass the time during your five-hour flight or if you’re bored and alone in your hotel room.

Camera

Whether still or moving pictures, you will thank yourself in a few years when reminiscing about yourself in front of some of the world’s most stunning modern architecture. 

QUICK TRAVEL TIPS

• When traveling from a cold to a hot destination, make sure to choose garments that are logical for the trip. A lightweight, long-sleeved shirt with bottom-detachable cargo pants is the type of outfit you should wear for the first and last days of travel.
• When packing, fold your shirts flat and roll all of your pants and ties to avoid wrinkling. Make sure to optimize and maximize your luggage space, and leave a bit of room for potential souvenirs and gifts that you can pack on your way back home.
• Bring two pieces of picture identification. You will be asked to provide these when checking in, going through security and even when you’re boarding the plane.
• With the current situation of higher airport security, make sure not to carry any sharp or pointy objects in your carry-on bag.
• Do not drink coffee, tea, soft drinks, or iced tea while flying unless you’d like to visit the washroom every half hour. Drink water instead.
• Buy travel, baggage, health, or cancellation insurance. It will save you a ton of headaches in the long run.
• Remember which time zone you are traveling to, and appropriately adjust your watch before you arrive.
• Get plenty of sleep. Traveling drains your body of energy and can be very stressful.
• Exercise whenever you have the chance, unless gaining a potbelly within a week is on your to-do list.

READY, SET, GO!

The more you travel, the more experienced you’ll get. Let this guide help you prepare for the first few trips and, before you know it, you’ll have the best stress-free travel experience of your life. Bon voyage — you’re now ready to go.

Sourced from: www.askmen.com

Written by: Harry Marks