New Years 2014

New Year’s Eve customs: 10 ways in which the world celebrates the New Year

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One of the most significant moments of the year is how you bring in the new year. It is not uncommon to find that people all over the world take this time to celebrate new beginnings, pray for prosperity and symbolically get rid of the old patterns.

From weird and strange to funny customs, people all over the world have unique traditions to bring into their lives in the coming year plenty of love, happiness, wealth, health and good fortune. Here are some customs that caught our eye:

1. To bring in good luck, Romanians toss coins into the river.
2. Another tradition to bring in good luck and happiness can be found in Spain where when the clock strikes midnight, 12 grapes (each grape representing one month) are eaten. This tradition dates back to 1909 in the town of Alicante. In Chile, lentils are eaten at midnight to ensure a successful year ahead.
3. In Talka, Chileans spend the night before the coming year in the cemetery, near their deceased loved ones. This is a relatively new tradition which holds the belief that the new year should be welcomed in surrounded by dead relatives. Classical music and dim lighting set the ambiance in the cemetery.
4. Carols or janeiros as they are locally called in northern Portugal; are sung by children. Very similar to trick-or-treat in the US during Halloween, the children visit houses where they are given money and treats.
5. Latin American countries, including Mexico, hang a wool toy lamb from the front door to call in good luck.
6. In Paraguay and Colombia misfortune is kept at bay by the burning of an effigy called the “Año Nuevo at midnight with fireworks.
7. Armenians hold a ‘Ritual of fire’ to symbolically mark the end of all their troubles of the outgoing year.
8. Many South American countries such as Brazil and Bolivia hold the tradition of wearing colourful underwear at midnight. Not only does this herald good fortune, but also the finding of a partner. The colour red signifies a healthy love life whereas yellow relates to the desire for money and wealth.
9. In the Philippines, all round shapes is a reminder of the roundness of coins and prosperity, which is why many don clothing decorated with round shapes such as polka dots.
10. In Puerto Rico buckets of water are thrown out of windows on the eve of the new year which signifies ‘cleaning out’ the outgoing year. Homes are also cleaned and decorated that symbolizes the cleansing of the spirit.

While the manner in which people all over the world celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another may differ, there are common themes such as praying for prosperity, health and love that are universal and that bring us together. Whatever your tradition or belief on New Year’s Eve, we wish you a whale of a wonderful time and all good things in the coming year.

Cape Town

10 reasons to visit South Africa

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South Africa is a land of diverse beauty; bursting at the seams with cultural and historical treasures that do not fail to amaze holidaymakers. The breathtaking varied natural landscapes, ancient historical roots, incomparable opportunities to appreciate wildlife and a rainbow of colourful cultural traditions, all make for a memorable holiday experience.

Whether you’d like to soak up some history or encounter amazing wildlife or enjoy an adrenaline-packed adventure, this is a favourite destination of choice. Top ten reasons to put South Africa on your travel map are:

1. The thrill seekers paradise
South Africa has ample adrenaline-driven adventures to offer thrill seeking holidaymakers. The coastal city of Durban, situated along the Indian Ocean, is famed for its Shark Cage Diving expeditions. The Bloukrans River Bridge in the Western Cape is the world’s highest bridge for bungee jumping opportunities.

2. Sun, surf and sand
Blessed with holiday-friendly weather, South Africa’s beaches are highly sought after. The southern city of Cape Town is the country’s top holiday beach destination with plenty of Blue Flag labelled beaches for safe and clean fun.

3. Unrivalled places of interest
For a unique and exciting line up of attractions, South Africa is hard to beat. Johannesburg, Africa’s iconic city, has ample cultural and historical landmarks to satisfy any tourist. World renowned art galleries, tributes to Nobel Laureates, spectacular landscaped gardens and the Cradle of Humankind all vie for the attentions of the holidaymaker.

4. Natural wonders
A wealth of natural wonders throughout the country waits to be explored by the imaginative traveller. World Heritage sites, mountains, waterfalls, brunt crater, caves, canyons and beaches create an overwhelming number of activities for the visitor to choose from.

5. Wildlife
South Africa is home to one of the largest game reserves in the world. The iconic Kruger National Park is a firm favourite with both locals and international visitors. The Elephant Sanctuary in Hartbeestpoort Dam, easily accessible from Johannesburg, provide an unforgettable experience with their walk with the elephants tour.

6. The Rainbow Nation
The friendly locals form part of the attractions of a holiday to South Africa. Dubbed the Rainbow Nation by the legendary face of freedom and democracy, Nelson Mandela; the country is home to diverse vibrant colourful cultures.

7. Value for money
South Africa makes for an affordable holiday destination. The weak Rand when compared to the stronger currencies such as the US dollar, Pound or Euro presents ideal opportunities to take advantage of world class attractions.

8. No language barriers
English is the dominant of the 11 official languages South Africa is blessed with. Engaging with the friendly locals, ordering at a restaurant or booking a city tour is hassle-free.

9. Excellent infrastructure
On a visit to South Africa a visitor may easily forget he or she is in Africa. The country boasts an excellent infrastructure that facilitates great self-drive adventures; and a developed telecommunication system to keep you in touch with your loved ones.

10. Food, Food, Food
South Africa’s local cuisine is influenced by its multicultural heritage. Traditional African, European and Asian influences mark the variety of dishes available. South African wine estates produce some of the world’s most favoured wines.


Tortue museum

7 Weird museums around the globe

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The list of the world’s most weird and strange extends to include museums around the globe that have become tourist attractions noted for the bizarre collections housed within their walls. If ever you’re in one of the destinations listed below and find yourself wanting a taste of something different, a visit to one of these weird museums will definitely provide something out of the ordinary.

Dog Collar Museum – Leeds, UK

Leeds Castle, stretching across 500 acres of land, showcases a ‘unique collection of historic and fascinating dog collars’. The collection, which has more than 100 dog collars and other related items, tells a canine cuff tale which spans five centuries. Visitors can marvel at hunting dogs’ strong collars to 21st-century fashion bling collars. Also exhibited at the castle is a more conventional display of Henry VIII memorabilia.

The Museum of Bad Art – Boston, USA

The Museum of Bad Art is the only museum in the world devoted to the collection, preservation, exhibition and celebration of bad art in all its forms. The museum has in its collection over 400 of terrible art pieces. Only 40 pieces can be exhibited at a time due to space constrictions. Specific themes on display include ‘blue people’, ‘poor traits’ and ‘unlikely landscapes, seascapes and still lifes’. Art pieces depict conflicting colours, disproportionate figures and a general lack of talent that do not fail to amuse visitors to the museum.

Museum of Medieval Torture Instruments – Prague, Czech Republic

Ever wondered how confessions were extracted in the Middle Ages? The Museum of Medieval Torture Instruments has on display more than 60 torture devices used to forcibly gain confessions from alleged heretics; one such instrument is the Head Crusher. Also on hand are tutorials which helpfully explain how each device is used.

Leila’s Hair Museum – Missouri, USA

The strange artifacts found in Leila’s Hair Museum consist of human hair. Wreaths, bracelets, pictures and other fascinating objects d’art have been fashioned out of beards, fringes and other human hair cut offs. More than 2 000 items are exhibited.

Parasite Museum – Tokyo, Japan

Where would you find 300 different varieties of parasites all in one place? The parasite museum in Tokyo, founded by four scientists specialising in parasites, also doubles as a research facility. Pride of place is given to a 30 foot tapeworm that was pulled out of a woman.

Museum of Funeral Carriages – Barcelona, Spain

Macabre it may be but the Museum of Funeral Carriages is a top attraction for visitors to Barcelona. Anyone wanting to have a look at 18th century flamboyant funeral carriages need to first report to the Municipal’s Funeral Services. They will then be directed to the basement by a security guard where the exhibition is under lock and key.

Currywurst Museum – Berlin, Germany

The city of Berlin boasts plenty of world class attractions. The existence of the Currywurst museum, in all its ketchup red splendor, may raise a few eyebrows but the currywurst is the national favourite dish in Germany. Learn all there is to know about this spicy sausage delight, experience a sensory explosion or be a pretend cart owner behind a mock currywurst stand.

walking tour

Experience the benefits of a walking tour on your next holiday

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The attraction of walking tours affords a unique personal perspective from which to enjoy the local landscape, history and culture of your holiday destination. The benefits of walking tours are extensive, some of which include:

• You reap the benefits of an intimate experience with the city’s landscape or countryside’s history and architecture (depending on where you are travelling to),
• Walking tours is a guilt free eco-friendly way to tour a city or see sites of historical and cultural significance,
• Slow down the pace and discover the magic of your destination at your own leisurely pace if you choose a self-guided tour,
• All you need is a comfortable pair of shoes to walk in and a good guide book or book with a reputable knowledgeable tour guide company,
• You get to walk along the same paths as historic figures and personalities on a theme-based walking tour,
• Walking tours are a great way to see the sights and keep in shape.

How to prepare for a walking tour

Walking tours require a fair amount of walking, and even though it can be done at a pace you are comfortable with, you may need to prepare your body before you go on holiday. This is particularly important if you will be going on hiking trails over long distances or over rough terrain which may require a higher fitness level. If you are using a tour guide company, check with them on the fitness level required for their tours. Ask the locals for advice if you prefer a self-guided tour.
Protect yourself and opt for travel insurance with medical cover that would cover you should you travel to a remote location and the unfortunate happens and you get injured.
If you are travelling across time zones or to high altitude destinations, allow your body to adjust to jet lag or changes in altitude.

Recommended things to pack

If you have chosen to use a professional tour company, your guide should provide a recommend list of items that you would need. For self-guided walking tours, here is our list of essential items to carry:

• A pair of comfortable walking shoes or waterproof hiking boots which come more highly recommended by many tour operators,
• A good effective brand of sunscreen to protect your skin,
• A hat that provides effective cover from the sun,
• Sunglasses to protect the eyes from UV exposure,
• Depending on where you would be walking, insect repellent,
• Comfortable clothes that is suitable for walking and include an all-weather jacket,
• Bottled water, dried fruit or energy bars,
• A camera.

Some of your holiday’s most memorable moments are experienced on walking tours which are often the true way to uncover the essence and history of a place.

Flower show

7 Top fantastic flower shows around the world

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For all flower and horticultural enthusiasts there are plenty of top international flower shows to add to your travel itinerary while on holiday. Flower shows are incredible tourist attractions that promise an explosion of delights your senses will thoroughly enjoy. Be inspired by great leaps in imagination and creativity. Here are our top 7 fantastic flower shows around the world (in no particular order):

1. Chelsea Flower Show, London
Arguably the world’s most renowned flower show, the Chelsea Flower Show is hosted on the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea and showcases over 20 show gardens designed by cutting-edge inspired and creative landscaping experts from around the world. Visitors can expect to be bombarded by dramatic bloom displays and inspiring garden designs and themes. This premiere event in the horticultural world attracts 157 000 visitors each year, attesting to its popularity.

2. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, Cape Town
South Africa’s classic internationally acclaimed perennial flower show is one attraction that should feature on the itinerary lists of all visitors to the city. Reasons for including a stop at the ‘most beautiful garden in Africa’ include more than 22 000 indigenous plants and award-winning flowers shows that can be viewed all year round.

3. Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, Australia
This 18 year-old international flower show is reported to be the largest flower show in the southern hemisphere. This stunning garden expo is held at a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton Gardens in Melbourne – where awe-inspiring avant-garde landscape designs are on display.

4. The Hong Kong Flower Expo
This flower show in Asia attracts more than 500 000 visitors and is characterised by its display of remarkable potted plants and spectacular garden displays by exhibitors from more than 20 countries around the world. Apart from the thrilling flower displays, visitors can also get expert advice from plant-care clinics and participate in guided walks.

5. Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, London
The world’s biggest flower show, the Hampton Court Palace Flower Show is widely known for the enthralling show gardens on display as well as floral marquees and pavilions. The distinctive voice of this flower show is the spotlight on environmental concerns and horticultural education.

6. Philadelphia International Flower Show
This year the Philadelphia International Flower Show saw its 184th annual hosting in March. The indoor flower show plays to a theme every year with ‘Brilliant’ being the theme for this year. The spirit of competitiveness soars high among exhibitors which ensure that the creative landscaping talent brought to the event present riveting garden displays. Visitors can also enjoy garden teas, a kid’s zone and a Garden to Table Kitchen where culinary demonstrations are held.

7. Amsterdam’s Bloemenmarkt, Netherlands
The Bloemenmarkt is the only floating flower market in the world and is one of the top tourist attractions in the city for horticultural lovers. Established in 1862, the flower show floats on the Singel Canal. Visitors can ogle at magnificent charming bouquets from florists and flower shops which are a real treat.

Sydney Australia

8 Tourist attractions that oozes the charm of Sydney

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Australia’s largest city is famed for its iconic landmarks, gardens and vibrant energy. The tourist attractions of Sydney perfectly portray the city’s unique charm and personality. The city is filled with an exciting line up of not-to-be-missed attractions.

1. Sydney Opera House
One of the most easily spotted landmarks in the world; the Sydney Opera House is Australia’s most famous symbol. Its unique distinguishing architectural and engineering design is an accomplishment for modern architecture. A visit to Sydney remains incomplete without a visit to the Opera House has housed over 1 500 performances attracting over 1.2 million audiences every year.

2. The Botanic Gardens
This family friendly attraction presents a delightful natural floral treat. The Botanic Gardens compliment the riveting vista of Sydney Harbour. Encompassing an area over 30 hectares, the immaculately maintained gardens are divided into a number of specialized gardens with each depicting an area of the world of plant life.

3. Bondi Beach
One of the city’s hotspot for both locals and visitors, Bondi beach is an ideal venue to enjoy the sun, sand and surf. Crossing the length of the white sandy beach is trendy Campbell Parade with a variety of eateries and restaurants to satisfy all sorts of culinary tastes.

4. Sydney Aquarium
Prepare for an underwater adventure with a visit to the Sydney Aquarium. The highly popular aquarium is home to a multitude of diverse marine life – tropical, cold, fresh and salt water fishes, mammals and dozens of other amazing species can be viewed. Walkthrough exhibits are accompanied by commentary. The seal show is definite must see.

5. The Queen Victoria Building
For an unforgettable shopping experience, The Queen Victoria Building promises elegance without skimping on shopping options. The very structure and design of the building is an architectural gem. The shopping hub features elaborate tiling, facades, metalwork, stained-glass windows and an amazing grand staircase.

6. The Blue Mountains
Providing the viewer with a myriad of spectacular contrasts and an escape from the accelerated pace of urban atmosphere, the Blue Mountain range is considered a major tourist attraction. Wentworth Falls, the Three Sisters and the Everglades add to the must-see attractions of the area.

7. The Chinese Garden of Friendship
Found at the end of Darling Harbour and within walking distance from China Town, the Chinese Garden of Friendship presents serenity and solitude amid ancient Chinese architecture. The idyllic gardens are a visual relationship with nature featuring waterfalls, colourful fish, lagoons, willow trees, pavilions and sculpture. Other popular attributes of the gardens include the Courtyard of Welcoming Fragrance, Dragon Wall, Water Pavilion of Lotus Fragrance, Rock Forest, and the Penjing.

8. The Sydney Harbour Bridge
Another world-renowned landmark is the Sydney Harbour Bridge or locally known as the ‘Coat Hanger’. For the more intrepid visitor is the exciting opportunity to experience a Bridge Climb which rewards bravery by offering an unforgettable rare sight of the Sydney cityscape.

Obtain an Australia visa
Other things to do in Australia

baby travel advice

10 handy tips for parents and guardians flying with babies or toddlers

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First time flying with a baby can be nerve wrecking for any parent. The limited space in an aircraft can be a challenging environment especially when travelling with a toddler. Fortunately there are ways in which to overcome these tricky situations with helpful advice from experienced parent travellers. We hope you find these helpful too.

1. Check your seating arrangements
It is advisable when making your travel bookings to inform your travel agent or airline that as you will be travelling with small children to ensure that you will be seated together. When at the check-in counter, double check that your seating arrangements are in order. Consider booking the window seat and seats close to the front of the aircraft. Don’t forget to carry along your child’s birth certificate.
2. Arrive in good time at your departure gate
Factor in plenty of time to arrive at your departure gate early. Travelling with small children slows you down and with security checks in place, it is a good idea to allow yourself time to go through the processes without the added stress.
3. Information is king
Check with your airline should you have any questions or concerns or for any updated security measures. It is also a good idea to check the websites of any of the airports you will be stopping at for facilities they offer. This would best help you prepare for a trip with connecting flights or multiple stopovers.
4. Air cabin pressure changes
Prepare for changes in air pressure during takeoff and landing. Babies and small children are especially susceptible to the change of air pressure which they find painful and uncomfortable. A helpful piece of advice is to have your baby suck on a dummy or a feed from a bottle or sippy cup.
5. Change of clothing
A change of clothing for baby, you and your partner is a must especially if you’re travelling on a long haul flight.
6. Snacks
Carry plenty of snacks to keep small children happy and occupied, preferably of the healthy sugar free variety.
7. Spring a surprise
This helpful advice works well with younger children. When preparing entertainment activities for your toddler, don’t make all of them available at once. Spring a surprise by revealing toys one at a time.
8. Stretch the muscles
Surviving long haul flights can be tough on little bodies. Encourage your child to stretch tired muscles by walking up and down the aisles with them. This ensures their safety and to respect the privacy of other passengers.
9. Medication
Check with your airline about security and safety restrictions regarding medication. Some over the counter drugs come in convenient handy travel size sachets. Should you need to carry medication with you, have your doctor’s letter on hand and obtain prior approval from your airline.
10. Keep calm and relax
It is a well known fact that babies and young children respond to the energy especially of their parents. By you breathing deeply and maintaining an air of calm, your baby is assured that all is well.

Marmaray tunnel

After a 150 year wait the underwater Marmaray tunnel finally comes to fruition to change the face of Turkey

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A 150 year old plan initially put forward by an Ottoman Sultan in 1860 has finally come to fruition. Turkey recently unveiled the underwater Marmaray railway tunnel, effectively connecting Asia to Europe. The unveiling of the tunnel coincided with Turkey celebrating its 90th anniversary of the founding of the Turkish Republic.

Turkish officials and the Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, attended the ceremony. Japan has been instrumental in the construction and financing of the Marmaray railway tunnel project with an investment of $1bn of the $4bn total cost of the project.

“I wish from God that the Marmaray that we are inaugurating will be a benefit to our Istanbul, to our country, to all of humanity,” said Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at the official ceremony. “Today we are realizing the dreams of 150 years ago, uniting the two continents and the people of these two continents.”

This is the world’s first underwater railway tunnel to link two continents. The tunnel more than 55 metres deep and according to Turkish officials is 13.6 kilometres in length, including 1.4 kilometres running under the Bosporus Strait – the connecting link between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara.

It is hoped the Marmaray tunnel, dubbed by Erdogan as the project of the century, will help alleviate Istanbul’s chronic traffic. Officials see a1.5 million passengers, who would normally traverse two heavily trafficked bridges daily, utilizing the services provided by the tunnel. And it is hoped the tunnel will eventually serve high-speed and freight trains.

“While creating a transport axis between the east and west points of the city, I believe it will soothe the problem” of congestion, said Istanbul’s mayor Kadir Topbas.

Responding to raised concerns that the newly built railway tunnel could be vulnerable to earthquakes in an area known for its high seismic activity, Turkish Transportation Minister Binali Yildirim said that the Marmaray tunnel is designed to withstand a massive 9.0 magnitude quake. He went further and called it “the safest place in Istanbul.”

The underwater portion of the tunnel was dropped in sections to the sea bottom using the immersed-tube method used around the world. The tube sections features flexible joints built to withstand shocks.
The Marmaray railway tunnel is part and parcel of Erdogan’s grandiose plans for Istanbul. A former mayor of the city himself, Erdogan has in his sights a separate tunnel being built under the Bosporus for passenger cars, a third bridge over the strait, the world’s biggest airport, and a massive canal that would bypass the Bosporus.

Backpacking

Backpacking 101 – independent travel at its best

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The first rule of thumb when thinking about backpacking is proper planning to ensure a fun and safe adventure. Your friendly travel agent can provide a useful guide in alternative routes, transportation and accommodation options and must-sees. Gather as much information as you can about the places you intend visiting and the accommodation facilities where you will be staying at. The more information you have at hand the better you will be able to pack appropriately.

At the top of the list is your gear – especially your choice in backpack. You will be carrying this piece of equipment with you, possibly trekking across cities and countries so it goes without saying that you choose the best option for you. The right size (big enough to carry all your belonging but small enough to be conveniently carried around on buses, planes or trains), comfort, durability and strong straps are important features to consider. A wise choice in backpacks would be ones that have extra chest or waist straps which help to distribute weight evenly.

Essential items are as individual as the backpacker is. The golden rule of experienced backpackers is to pack light; do not take up unnecessary space with what can be bought conveniently whilst travelling. Be practical and you will prevent unwanted misery and frustration.

The clothes that you pack should cover all weather conditions irrespective of the destinations you choose. Useful items to include are zip lock bags, elastic bands to keep things together. A pair of lightweight sandals or flip flops and comfortable running shoes should be adequate footwear.

Travel insurance is an important consideration for all travellers. A travel agent can best advise on which travel insurance cover is the most suitable option according to cover your needs and pocket. If you’re taking along expensive items such as ipads, ipods, digital cameras and cell phones travel insurance will cover you in case they get stolen.

You may be excited while on your backpacking adventure, but you should always practice safety precautions such as taking care of your valuable items. Money and important documents should be safely stored in a money bag under your clothing, close to your person at all times. Keep digital copies of your passport, visas and other important documents. Practising common sense will also keep you out of harm’s way.
Backpacking is a mentally and physically challenging way to travel. But the independent spirit and freedom afforded by backpacking are some of the reasons why backpacking remains a favourite way to travel and see the world.

You’re thinking of taking the leap and doing something fun? Backpacking may be for you if you:
• Enjoy flexibility of travel
• Do not have the luxury of a large travel budget
• Want to build social confidence by meeting new people from all over the world
• Experience a different culture

Maldives

5 Things to do on holiday in the Maldives – the world’s best tropical beach destination

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The sun-kissed islands of Maldives have long been held as a favourite destination for holidaymakers. This tourist hotspot comprise of 1 190 islands stretched across 35 000 miles in the Indian Ocean and is regarded to be the world’s best tropical beach destination. While the Maldives islands presents a haven for water sports lovers, there are a variety of other ways in which to enjoy a holiday here island-style.

1. Take in a spa treatment
The secluded setting of tropical islands and the soothing sound of the waves, soft sand beneath your feet and dazzling blue skies above will envelope you in a cocoon of relaxation and serenity. Indulge yourself in world class spa treatments every resort in the Maldives offers. Luxury treatments and packages vary depending on which resort you choose.

2. An aerial Seaplane Photo Flight tour for the perfect view of the islands
The spectacular panoramic views of the Maldives islands offered by Seaplane photo flight tours are magical and definitely worth an experience. Fly over crystal clear pristine waters, unspoilt islands, lagoons, and be mesmerised by sightings of schools of fish and dolphins, manta and sting rays from above. This experience is one of the most memorable highlights on a visitor’s itinerary list.

3. Night fishing reef adventures
Seeing that the Maldives are an island nation, it comes as no surprise that fishing is interlaced in Maldivian culture from daily activities to cuisine. On a night fishing experience (which many resorts offer) you get to experience authentic island life. The boat departs just before sundown to settle at a perfect fishing spot. You will be instructed on how to use lines, hooks and sinkers; and with bait provided even the inexperienced in fishing stand a great chance of catching a fish.

4. Sightseeing around the capital
The city of Male’ is not only the capital of the Maldives, but the smallest capital city of all capital cities. The diminutive size does not impact on the number of attractions offered to tourists. The foremost among which is the National Museum located in the former Sultan’s Palace. The museum boasts valuable relics, regal objects and artefacts dated from the pre-Islamic era.

5. Scuba dive at the Maldives Victory
The Maldives Victory vessel makes for an extraordinary scuba diving experience. The ship which sunk in 1981 is nestled below the waves on the Hulhule House Reef. What makes scuba diving here extra special and a favourite with enthusiasts of the sport is navigating through the tricky currents, the abundance in picturesque fresh coral and dazzlingly colourful schools of fish. For those novice scuba divers wanting the experience, expert guides are available.