Oh, Aurora!

Photos from hotelranga.is

One day I wish I could experience the Northern Lights. Where else would be a better place than to see it from Iceland! If one is into nature, and is happy to immerse themselves in endless space, boundless skies, unlimited grounds - then the newly listed Virtuoso property, Hotel Ranga is the best choice. Stargazing, fishing, and visit to various attractions such as : hot springs, cultural villages, nature reserves, waterfalls, black sand beaches, etc are only a few of the places that one could explore from Hotel Ranga. I am particularly excited about the option of stargazing while on the hotel's hot tub! I just wish the weather would be kind! Ok, that and of course the fresh salmon dishes served at the property's restaurant!

Hotel Rangá
Sudurlandsvegur
851 Hella
Iceland

Phone number:  +354 487 5700
Email:  hotelranga@hotelranga.is

How do you research

In my professional industry, I have learned various ways of searching for the best value and best price for my clients' ultimate getaway. Sometimes it takes so much of my time that I lose track of time! Having said that though, over the years I have learned to sift through the information and use the right supplier on the get go! the best ones are here within my fingertips and there is no need to look further tapping unreliable suppliers. I wish I had known this when I was starting out, but I guess that is part of learning.

Visiting the Queen

A couple of weeks ago I sold a tour to a family to go travelling around Europe, with the grand final stop to Visit London. It was such a fun experience organising a big trip for a family with four teenagers! Although initially the head of the family advised me that they were on a tight budget (of course) given that there were six adults travelling for a month! I wish I had done the same thing with my parents when we were younger. We probably would have booked ourselves in London apartments and a few nights in holiday cottages in countryside UK, since me and my sisters were fans of the movie the Holiday!

Come to think of it, I've only ever travelled to Europe with my sister. I wish we are able to go on a holiday to Europe (or anywhere) with my whole family. That would be so much fun, especially now that there are four grandchildren! My little one is the only female grandchild so I wish one of my other siblings would have a girl next time (or maybe me!).

Traveling back

Today I was talking to a friend, and somewhere along the conversation we ended up talking about the past. The what ifs, and other things. Sometimes we cannot really help but wonder about what our life would have been if we had taken a different path. It doesn't mean we want to change our present, but just like anyone else we wonder... Hmm.. Would we have done things any other way? Or, would we have chosen another career? What could we have done more of, better of? I guess the only thing I might have done otherwise is travel more. I don't think I would have opted for a singles holiday, but I wouldn't have minded to try traveling on my own. Perhaps gone on an adventure holiday of some sort. Or maybe even, gone on a working holiday around Europe, taken a gap year or two just to travel, travel and travel.

Once, before hubby and I got married, I wanted to go on a short trip away. Just me. I guess I wasn't that much of a risk taker, because I didn't pursue that. It was all just in my head to travel on my own. I am thinking out loud now and asking myself if my daughter when she turns 18 if I would allow her to travel on her own, or even go on a working holiday overseas ... if I should let her? I guess I wouldn't really have much of a choice though. If I keep her back she'd miss out on big experiences in life that would mold her into her future self.

Should I have just gone and travelled back then? Maybe.

Luxury in the Himalayas

Tranquil.

No other word can describe the beautiful Ananda in the Himalayas. It is a destination spa, which offers a truly relaxing experience. One where you can indulge in solitude, immerse in nature's wonder.

The resort is perched on top of the hill, and has a splendid tree top deck which overlooks a heavenly masterpiece. Ananda also offers a number of activities which interests a range of visitors : yoga, cooking classes, golf, billiards, white water rafting, safari .. endless options. Of course I would probably choose to have a spa every day if I were there.

The Ananda has rooms, suites and villas to suit guests who are either there on an executive retreat, family getaway or a sweet couple's honeymoon. Rates range from USD 335 to about USD 1460 plus taxes. Their website provides the tariffs, including special packages available.

Ananda - In The Himalayas

The Palace Estate
Narendra Nagar
Tehri - Garhwal
Uttaranchal - 249175
INDIA
Telephone: 91-1378-227500
Facsimile: 91-1378-227550
Email: sales@anandaspa.com

Holiday Cheers

As early as now, I have been dropping hints and telling hubby that we should go on a family holiday next year! I would prefer to travel during Christmas, so we could visit family back home in time for the festivities. I have asked him though to save enough money so we could also go visit another city and stay in a nice hotel such as The Palace Hotel. Little does he know that I have a few cities in mind to visit! The Palace Hotel Manchester would be quite a nice property to stay at, and it would give us a chance to experience white Christmas there as well. I would have to do a bit more research whether The Palace is kid friendly and whether there are activities for children in Manchester. I suppose as a family, we would enjoy any activity for as long as we are on a holiday together! I can’t wait!

Travel this and Travel that

For some reason my friends in Germany are into Karaoke as much as they are into golf! Being a travel agent, I do get weird questions asking about where the best place to go for certain things in a particular city. One that I got a few months back was asking what Golf shop is best available in Germany. I had to do a bit of research for that of course, since I’ve only been to Germany once and have never been asked this question before. Anyway, I found an extensive online shop for my friend. I have also offered to tell him where Golfkurse or Golfkurs Platzreife is (just in case he’d ask).

I wish I could travel Germany extensively so that I can be a better travel agent. That’s one good thing about my profession, we do get to go on familiarization tours. Although at the moment, there are no offers to travel to Europe. Majority of our educational offers are to Asia or the South Pacific islands, I just wish I could see more of Europe again! It has been a while since I’ve been to Europe, or been on an educational! Although now, I know these dreams will have to be put on a bit of a hold since we are expecting our first born. Perhaps in about a year and a half when I go back into the workforce and back into my consultant job I could snag myself a work sponsored free trip to Europe. For now, I should satisfy myself with online researches and daydreaming about visiting that far away land! Sometimes I think if I envy the younger ladies at work who have been grabbing all the chance they could get to travel, whether work or self expense. As much as I haven’t really been traveling that much when I was single, I don’t regret it all. One day I can still travel the world with hubby and kids in tow. For now, thoughts on motherhood is what’s on my mind, together with local travel that is.

Dreaming of a getaway

Hubby and I are planning a bit of a quick getaway within the next few weeks or months. Since we are expecting a baby early next year, we want to spend a bit of time with each other and perhaps do a bit of traveling as a couple before we become a family of three. We were discussing what sort of holiday would be nice to go on, something that is not too expensive but still enjoyable. At this stage of our lives, we are both after a more relaxed type of vacation but we need a place to stay where there are still a number of outdoor activities to choose from. Hubby and I are both very much into photography, thus we look for holiday destinations and make sure that there are plenty of opportunities to take a variety of interesting photos. Aside from the fact that we both would need an interesting city, I make sure that the hotel we would be staying at is at least a four star. I guess since I am a travel agent I can manage to get good deals even at such hotel properties. I need a really heavenly bed, and a nice view to the room. I have browsed a few cities and have decided that I would love to go and visit Switzerland sometime and stay at a typical Swiss chalet overlooking the glorious Alps! Ideally I would be traveling during winter so the view from our room would be powder white snow. On the other hand though, I am not my best during this season and I am willing to settle to visit Switzerland in springtime. I have already conjured up a few Swiss Hotels that I would love to visit and stay at, or even do hotel inspections of. I am sure whoever is planning a Swiss getaway would be interested in surfing through this website to check out good deals and just to give one travel ideas on embarking on a truly typical Swiss adventure.

Travel for meetings

There are so many beautiful areas in England that are all so green and luscious, no wonder a lot of people enjoy traveling around that country.

One growing market that I know who travels for business and at the same time pleasure are the meetings and convention market. I have handled a company who travels overseas at least once every three years as an incentive for their employees and their families, at the same time they hold planning sessions at halls. I have offered to help arrange a trip to England and book them at this lovely Hotel in Sheffield. This property is nestled in a very beautiful area, and offers a variety of activities and meeting halls for my clients.I do hope they go ahead and book with me in spite of the current economic crisis.

Hidden Treasure : Paperbark Camp

I've been thinking about a place to head off to for the long Easter weekend. I have managed to convince hubby to go South Coast NSW and I wrote that we would most likely be close to the beach again. Tho I would really love to go visit Paperbark Camp in Jervis Bay, for now it would only just be a dream getaway (it has been for the past six months!).

Paperbark camp is a luxury hideaway, with a choice of original or deluxe Safari tents. Each canvassed tent features timber deck, outdoor lounge, a comfortable bed, private open air shower, luxury amenities, etc.

The property, which is about 2 1/2 hour drive South of Sydney, offers interesting bike trails, canoe adventure activity, hikes, etc. For the ones who are just visiting for the hideaway luxury of it, can wait by the deck to spot possums or kangaroos, or perhaps enjoy lazy day readings in the outdoor lounge, or have a massage within the private tent.

What not to miss is the food experience at the Gunyah (Aboriginal for meeting place), which is the property's reknowned restaurant. At the moment, they have got extra special deals to celebrate their 10th anniversary. The cuisine is mainly modern European, at which the menu changes to match the season.

(Images from Paperbark website)

Where is Sea Isle City?

Facing the Atlantic Ocean’s splendour lies a city which is part of New Jersey’s coast. Unknown to a lot of big city dwellers, Sea Isle City has got to offer one of the most relaxing weekends away. I have read that Sea Isle city has beachcombing activities and biking tours that I am sure I would love to check out if I find myself traipsing that part of the world with my boyfriend of course. A visit to the town’s historic museum is also something we might do. Where to stay should not be a problem as sea isle city rentals are plenty. City rentals sea isle has a range of luxury to budget accommodation that would appeal to different tourists: whether you and a partner seeks a nice quiet place, or a family of six that wants to be right in the middle of the happenings. Looking at possible places to dine at while visiting Sea Isle, one can choose from a variety of restaurants, lounges and bistros. Perhaps even just a quick phone call for pizza delivery for that lazy mode evening is quite appealing to me now. There are so many reasons for me to visit the United States soon. I have been getting so many invitation letters to come visit family and friends. One of my good friends would be leaving Manila this month to live in the East Coast of the US. She’s requiring me to see her if and when I go to the other side of the globe! Well, I told her we’ll have to wait and see!

Conquer the fear of flying

Today I read about this course to overcome fear of flying. Imagine they say that about 1 in 4 persons are afraid of flying. My boyfriend had this as well, so I immediately told him about this course. He's not as scared of flying anymore though. I told him that the more you fly the less scared one gets.

I guess in a way taking courses from experts can make one more excited about flying, and make flying a comfortable experience. I know a lot out there love going to new places. But, sometimes the actual travel method can be a bit too much. Imagine 15 hours straight flight. It can wear out one's body, it can drain the mind. Having a positive outlook to flying can help alleviate all these travel-related stress. (I guess flying business or first class would help as well!).

Knowing the ins and outs of the aviation industry could possibly help. Sometimes it's all in the mind. And, that is a pretty big thing to conquer.

Photo from: http://flickr.com/photos/georgedthompson/

For the love of Tomatoes

Okay, I love tomatoes. As you may have read my previous post on my cooking delight.

A long time ago, when I was in college I watched a travel show which featured the Spanish event: La Tomatina! The festival is celebrated on the last wednesday of August, in the town of Bunol, in Valencia, Spain. There are numerous festivities which lead to this final celebration of tomatoes, such as : food stalls, street parties, parades, dancing, fireworks, etc.

It is quite a costly celebration, that their city council spends up to about USD15000. However, attracting up to 40,000 tourists and visitors who travel 38 kms from the city of Valencia, this Tomatina festival offers so much more that it has been ongoing since the year 1945. Quite a while now! When I saw this festival on television I thought to myself I should try this and experience this in my lifetime. Well, I guess not this year, sadly.

The celebration begins mid morning, when the lucky person has reached for the ham at the top of the greased pole. Water cannons are fired up onto the street filled with people (dressed in hopefully not white tees), who armed with their eye goggles and gloves. Although tomatoes are squished before being thrown, it is always best to keep safe and cautious of the chaotic-tomato filled hour. The Tomatina ends in about an hour, with the water cannon firing away signalling the end. Time for clean up, and the people head towards the Bunol river to rinse, while the local council clean the streets. Another end to a good time, until next year again when the city comes alive with tomatoes in the air. They say it takes experiencing it to appreciate the event. Otherwise, one just feels tomato rotten about the wasted fruit.

I've gathered a few trivia on tomatoes:

• Botanically, Tomatoes are fruits
• The tomato seeds are source of vitamin C
• A tomato plant can produce up to 15 tomatoes in a season
• French people refer to tomatoes as the "apple of love", while the Germans refer to it as the "apple of paradise"
• There are more than 4000 varieties of tomato, ranging in size, shape and colour

Dreamy driving

It’s already halfway through the year and I still haven’t applied for my driver’s license. I can’t drive in Sydney anymore with my Philippine license. Although I don’t really intend to get a car just yet (living in the city one does not really need this), I would really like to probably just go for a car rental to do long weekends away from the city. I already have a mental list of places I would like to visit. Topping that list would be the South Coast’s Bulli. I went to Bulli beach a few months ago and had a really nice experience. I read the paper today and saw that there are quite a few promotional rates and discounts available. I’m sure with my travel agent card I would get even better deals. Who knows I could probably rent a convertible (yeah right!). Now all I really need to work on is getting my driver’s license.

Coping with the J word

JETLAG.
Everyone copes differently, but one way or another everyone feels this. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first time traveler. The only difference is probably, the frequent traveler is more aware of what’s happening. Here are a few tips to overcome or prepare for an anticipated travel plan. Some may work for you, and some may not. I know I just really need at least 6 hours sleep upon landing in my destination to adjust. And, upon arriving home I need at least 24 hours sleep and rest to recover. Here’s my way of coping with jetlag.

Prior Departure
- Pre-Plan your activities wisely at your destination. Allow rest time.
- Don’t plan a big night on the eve of your flight. A good night's rest is always advisable.
- Take fruits and vitamins prior, you will need all the extra nutrients to combat getting sick in transit.
- Take a long, warm shower prior leaving your house to ease tension and lower one’s stress level.
- Avoid too much sugar, caffeine, nicotine as these just add to one’s stress.

Onboard Flight
- Constantly drink water to hydrate yourself.
- Move about the cabin. Try to do mini stretches (in the loo or along the aisle) every hour or two.
- Set your watch to your destination’s time.
- Eat right onboard. Take light meals and snacks. Disrupting your body’s eating habit onboard will make one prone to upset stomach, stress and headaches.Get some rest. Sleep with your eye mask, request for a neck pillow. Or, if possible take a day flight. It makes one feel less tired upon reaching one’s destination.

Upon Arrival
- Set some time to have your body adjust to the climate, time zone, atmosphere of the local area.
- Warm baths ease the tension built up in flight.
- Do some stretching, or take a walk. This helps your body circulation.
- Re-hydrate. Take lots of water.
- Put on aromatherapy to calm nerves and ease tension.

(Image from Qantas' aircraft interior)

Before I get married/Start a family

I had this conversation today with my boyfriend. I told him I was thinking of traveling alone overseas before we get married. He felt a bit bad about me wanting or even thinking of traveling alone, meaning, without him. I tried to send my message across that it was something I have just been wanting to do. It does take a lot of courage, planning and money involved, but the world is very much a safer place to travel alone. A female solo traveler is not as frowned upon as days before. It’s not like I won’t tell him where I will be all the time. I don’t intend to travel to rural areas. Just major cities/city. Today, when we were out with a girl friend of mine, she mentioned she also wanted to do this. I told boyfriend this is really one of those things that some ladies aspire for. I think it’s not for everyone though. But I am glad I have come across another lady blogger who feels the same way! :)

Galos Caves in Chicago

The concept of salt-iodine caves have been around since the year 2000. It's only recently that I have heard about it. The healing capabalities of the caves are still being tested, although it sure is a unique way to go for treatments. Galos caves offers an authentic sea micro climate on American soil.

There are a number of claims about the benefits when one undergoes treatment from the Galos caves. Some if them are: respiratory/rheumatic/ cardiovascular diseases. Apparently air,when seeped through salt stimulates the immune system. Galos caves are suitable for children as well as mature people. Rates per 45 minute session are from USD 15 per adult. Discounts for families or groups are available.

I would definitely be interested in trying a treatment. Who knows I could benefit from this type of treatment.

Galos Caves Open 7 days a week, 900hrs-2100hrs.

6501 West Irving Park Road Chicago Il 60634 USA

Tel. 1 (773) 283 7701, 1 (773) 283 7761 or Email them : info@galoscaves.com

Fancy eating in a toilet restaurant?

Everyone's entitled to their own preference. I would probably be more inclined to try a more "traditional" themed restaurant. But with all the new concepts and themed restaurants emerging, sooner rather than later this was bound to happen. If you are wanting to try the novelty of all novelties, then this is on your list.

The first of its kind, toilet restaurant called Marton (Chinese for the word toilet), is located in Taiwan's major city, Kaoshiung.

The restaurant decors are pretty much what one would find in a toilet (or bathroom). The guests are seated in toilet seats, the walls are in bathroom blue tiles, dishes are served in miniature toilet "bowls", urinals, tubs, etc. They serve dessert (chocolate mousse like) in a mini "dump" shape.
If you're feeling a bit 'crappy' and want a bit of amusement, AND happen to be in Taiwan, then this place may cheer you up. And then again, if you are not up for it, I am sure there are other restaurants available in the city!

I personally would probably have a quick peek into the resto if I happen to be in that town. Just to see that it is real, and that people actually have their meals inside this toilet restaurant. Interesting!

Photos taken from: http://funfever.blogspot.com/2007/11/taiwans-modern-toilet-restaurant.html

Contact:
Toilet Bowl Taipei Metro, Hsinpu Station, Exit 1 (02) 8253-7767

Yellow Water Billabong Cruise, NT

Went on the Yellow Water Billabong Cruise at Kakadu, Northern Territory. It was one great experience that I truly enjoyed. One with nature. It is photographer's paradise as well (if you have the proper equipment of course). So much wildlife to be seen. We were able to catch a peek at salties (saltwater crocodile), a number of birds, etc. It is something not to be missed when one has the opportunity to visit Kakadu National Park.

The scenery throughout the cruise is just endless wetlands such as the photo/s below.

Ducks were plenty as well... And of course they come in a group, or pairs... Rarely seen alone..

If you have a closer look at the bird below. It is kneeling. But with it's knees turned the other way around!
Can you guess what animal it is that's partly showing itself below? (A croc!)

If I could choose a place to finish my knitting project

.. It would be here in the Northern Territory at a town called Adelaide River. They have their own space for their very own knitter's club! Just to give you a bit of an idea where this town is, it is between the cities of Darwin and Katherine, in the Northern Territories. This means it is somewhere in the outback! It is a quaint little town that just has so much to offer. On our way to the Katherine Gorge's we actually stopped and had lunch at one of the picnic tables here. The pub had the usual pub food, but the nice thing about this pub is that they actually have a garden. Imagine a pub (yes, beers, chips and the like) with a really cool garden. And the knitters' table.