Cruises on Costa Serena

Posted by Unknown at 01:09

I have not had the opportunity to enjoy a trip on a cruise. While on the way I like to travel, organizing it by myself, and maximizing enjoyment in the various destinations, a priori admit that until now I’ve been attracted by this kind of travel is increasingly popular.

Photography by Terry Wha

But contrary to what was said above, I’m sure some time, sooner rather than later, I will point to the experience of doing a cruise. However, as an advance, if I had the opportunity to meet a large cruise ship, on the occasion of TBMBCN held in the month of April, during a stopover in the port of Barcelona.

Costa Serena cruise ship:

This event is celebrated on the Costa Serena, one of the largest ships of the Italian company Costa Cruises, the largest in Europe and currently has a fleet of 15 large cruise ships, after the recent premiere of his new ship Costa Favolosa .

The Costa Serena was opened in 2007, with a tonnage of 114,500 tons and a capacity for 3780 passengers. Then I tell you what the Costa Serena, after the visit I could do for all of its dependencies.

1 .- Reception

Your entrance to the Costa Serena will book one of the most striking images that you will have in this great cruise. Its large reception room, with four lifts, all surrounded a colorful decoration, which never fails to recall the style of the hotels in Las Vegas, gives a first idea of the large interior of the Costa Serena, a real city on vacation.

2 .- Cabins:

Without doubt, go through the lengthy corridors of Costa Serena, which are distributed in several different cabins plants, is one of the best ways to perceive the enormity of this cruise ship.

The Costa Serena has 1,500 cabins on many different levels of comfort. The most simple and cheap are the interiors, but really not too much a price difference worth staying during the trip in a cabin with window to the outside, which is like a small hotel room

Of all the cabins, there are 500 private balcony, and the most luxurious are the 58 suites, all with balconies, and 12 of them with direct access to the spa. They are a luxury.

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Photography by Harry Willis

3 .- Grand Theatre:

Other units of the most impressive Costa Serena is the great drama of three levels, with capacity for 1,500 people, where every day sessions are held two shows.

4 .- Areas of massages, spa and fitness:

Physical exercise and, by contrast, relaxation, part of the regular activities of the cruise, as I have checked to see large rooms for fitness, spas, thalassotherapy, treatment rooms, sauna, Turkish bath and solarium UVA.

5 .- Pools:

The pools are undoubtedly an essential element for the enjoyment of a cruise ship. In the Costa Serena will find swimming pools, both in areas of fore and aft, some external and others that can be covered in case of need.

In total, four pools and five whirlpools and a pool. The fact that the pools can be covered extends the ability to enjoy the cruise to the times when the weather is not as favorable as in summer.

6. Restaurants:

Along with swimming pools, restaurants are definitely major players in the Costa Cruise. The tour around the ship are several dining areas with different environments, with swimming areas.

The buffets are open all day, so you can eat at any time you want (included in the price, excluding drinks), which undoubtedly prevents a cruise is appropriate to maintain a diet.

The largest of the restaurants is a large interior, where dinners are held.

In total, Costa Cruises is the five restaurants, two of which are additional payment (Club Bacco restaurant and Samsara) and reservation.

Photography by ahisgett

7. Bars and entertainment areas:

Also, along with restaurants, 13 bars have the most diverse environments, as well as a nightclub and a large casino. Surely you will call attention to the Chocolate Bar and on the other hand, the F1 car simulator. Undoubtedly, this great boat cruise is itself a destination to enjoy holidays. So when I visited, although the bulk of travelers were visiting Barcelona, there were many other different areas to enjoy their leisure.

Bon voyage!

Berlin – Visit the dome of the Reichstag Foster

Posted by Unknown at 01:08

There is no doubt that the German parliament Reichstag Building in Berlin, is one of the main attractions when you come to Germany on vacation. Thus, a highly recommended visit your tourism trip to Berlin is the German Parliament building, known as the Reichstag.

Photography by teoruiz

In addition to seeing the great neo-Renaissance facade of this historic building from the large meadow in front of it, the great attraction of this visit is up to the roof of the Reichstag and having a great glass dome designed by renowned architect Norman Foster.

Some history:

Foster was responsible for remodeling the building in 1996, and it incorporates a large glass dome you can go and from which have good views of the institutional area of Berlin. Admission is free, and until recently to visit Foster’s dome had to wait long lines, which could only be avoided by going early. However, recently it has established a system of advance booking, which is the only way to get tickets to the Reichstag.

Photography by Javier Vidal

Norman Foster dome of the Reichstag in Berlin:

Although initially set up an online form, now only can reserve tickets by sending an email to the following address: kuppelbesuch@bundestag.de. In this mail you information detailing the people who want to visit the Reichstag: name, date of birth.

Visiting hours of the dome of the Reichstag in Berlin are from 8 to 23 pm (last access), with entries every quarter hour. This is the only way currently exists to book tickets for the building, do not accept bookings by phone.

To reach the top, you pass through to the booths next to the main facade, west of the Reichstag building. From here you access to the building and, after rising by an elevator to the roof, you’ll be at the dome.

German parliament Reichstag building in Berlin:

I advise one of the previously lame audio free guides in different languages, including Spanish, for 20 minutes you will relate interesting facts of the Reichstag.

So mime, if you’re interested in learning more about the history of the Reichstag, or expand knowledge of art and architecture of the building, you also have the opportunity to sign up prior to free tours of the Reichstag.

You have a wide range of possible German tours, lasting about 90 minutes standard. But they also offer tours in other languages such as Spanish, English or French.

To apply to attend a tour of the Reichstag, you must send an email to the following address: besucherdienst@bundestag.de. In the mail you have to detail the number of people, the type of tour that interests you, and dates.

It is therefore imperative that prior to your trip request a visit from the top, or you join a guided tour in Spanish. And do not worry what happens to me on my recent trip, I arrived at the Reichstag and could not enter without prior request.

Photography by Christian Heindel

Recommendations:

- I will be very easy to find great Riechstag building, because it is close to the Brandenburg Gate, near the large park in central Berlin, Tiergarten.
- When you’re in the Reichstag, you will see a huge classical building that contrasts with the contemporary design of buildings throughout the area and parliamentary government.

- The Reichstag in Berlin was built in 1894 in neoclassical style, and I remember that suffered serious damage in 1933 after a fire. In addition, at the end of the Second World War, was seriously damaged. In fact, the building as you can see now, is due to the great reform by Norman Foster since 1995, and it was not until 1999, after reunification when the Reichstag, or parliament of Germany, returned to have the building in Berlin as its institutional home.

- The great distinctive feature of the remodeled Reichstag is its great glass dome. From the large meadow that extends on the west side of the building, which houses the main facade, you can see the dome that rises above the middle.

- While in theory this large glass dome could break with the aesthetics of a building so classic lines, the fact is that, from my point of view, is treated very well to your porch with large columns. In fact, the glass dome of the Reichstag has become a major tourist attraction in Berlin. With its 23 meters high, the dome can visit for free and walk inside, up prior to the roof of the building by an elevator.

From the terrace you have panoramic views of the institutional area of Berlin, and next to the dome has a restaurant. Enjoy your trip!

Monfrague National Park – 5 tips

Posted by Unknown at 01:06

Monfrague National Park – 5 tips

One of the surprises that you can take a tourist trip through Extremadura to discover Monfrague National Park. I admit that when I recently had the opportunity to visit this natural landscape had almost no references on it, but it is definitely a must if you are thinking of a tourist route through the lands north of Cáceres.

Photography by juan.aguere

Then I’ll give you 5 tips for your visit Monfrague national park in Extremadura.

1 .- Visiting the viewpoints Monfrague raptors:

The great appeal of this natural enclave, which was declared a national park in 2007, is the large number and diversity of raptors you can see in it.

To do this, you must follow the different viewpoints is established in Monfrague to spot prey. The most important and spectacular is called Salto del Gitano, but the other viewpoints that you visit are the Castle of Monfrague, Tietar la Portilla, the Tajadilla and Castor.
The place is very typical to see raptors in the Salto del Gitano in Monfrague in Extremadura.

2 .- Go to Castle Monfrague:

If you are able to spend some time with your visit Monfrague certainly worth the climb to the Castle of Monfrague.

If you’re in times of peak tourist season or on weekends, you can not go by car, but it must walk along a path, which will take less than an hour.

At the top of the Tower of Homage Monfrague Castle have incredible panoramic views Monfrague National Park and is the best place to spot up close to birds of prey, especially vultures. The panoramic view is breathtaking from this point.

Photography by cotallo-nonocot

3 .- Visit Villarreal de San Carlos:

In the small village of Villarreal de San Carlos is the Visitor Center National Park Monfrague. Its origins date back to the eighteenth century and you will find also the shrine of the Virgen del Socorro.

4 .- Make a trip in 4 × 4 per Monfrague:

If you’re passionate about nature and wildlife, and want a deeper understanding of this natural landscape, it is best that you join an excursion in 4 × 4 per Monfrague.

You have several options, which also vary by season, but the key is a journey through the viewpoints of prey and, on the other hand, another excursion that allows you to delve into the typical Extremadura.

Photography by StephaneMGrueso

5 .- taste the typical cuisine of Extremadura:

A visit to Monfrague is not complete without tasting the typical gastronomy of Extremadura, Extremadura crumbs and the loin of venison or Iberian prey. This last point is very interesting and complementary if you want to know as Extremadura from her womb.

Without doubt the travel experience alone will make you add other alternatives and travel tips that will acquire the Spanish come to this land. No doubt the journey through this part of the country very well worth it.

Berlin – Opening hours and ticket prices Pergamon Museum

Posted by Unknown at 01:05

Berlin – Opening hours and ticket prices Pergamon Museum

Sure, if you’re traveling to Berlin soon, have targeted the visit of the Pergamon Museum as one of the indispensable in your days in the capital of Germany. The Pergamon Museum shows some of the great wonders of antiquity, such as the Ishtar Gate of Babylon or the Altar of Pergamon.

Photography by Miia Ranta

Location:

This museum you find it in the so-called Museum Island, in the most central area of historical Berlin, near the huge square Alexanderplatz.

Hours:

Visiting hours Pergamon Museum in Berlin are all weekdays, 10 to 18 hours, except on Thursdays, it closes at 22 hours. Of note, the museum is open on all holidays, including Christmas Day. Just a special time New Year’s Eve (closes at 14 pm) and New Year (it opens at 12 hours)

Tickets:

The prices of the Pergamon Museum tickets are $ 10 regular entry, and reduced admission 5 euros. Of the latter can benefit from, among others, children through age 18, unemployed and disabled.

Here’s all the information of the beneficiaries of the reduced ticket to visit the Pergamon Museum in Berlin. You can also point to guided tours of the Pergamon Museum or by mail or telephone. Here is contact information for tours.

Photography by TURCOLIVE

Tips:

How to avoid queues to visit the Pergamon Museum. When visiting the museum, you have to take into account holiday periods or weekends are common in long lines to enter the Pergamon Museum.

I can tell you I went to visit on a Friday afternoon in August and had to wait about 20 minutes in line to buy tickets. I tell you some tricks to avoid the queues.

If you plan to visit another museum of the Museum Island, know that there is a combined entry for the amount of input lets you visit all the museums in this area, except for Bode.

The combined ticket price for museums of Museum Island is 14 euros, the normal, and 7 euros, reduced entry. Thus, you have planned to visit two museums, and you are worth buying this combined ticket for saving money.

In this case, it is advisable to start the visit by one of the museums, where there are fewer tourists, and then go to Berlin the Pergamon Museum, where you no longer have to queue to buy a ticket … you already have.

Photography by Kent Wang

Another option is to buy tickets at the booth on the street is there behind the Altes Museum, before arriving at the Pergamon Museum.

And a third option to avoid the queues at the Pergamon Museum is the online advance purchase tickets, you can do from the official website of the museum, without any extra charge. Also, you make sure to enter a specific time to visit the museum.

Have a good trip and enjoy your experience!

Visit the Natural Park Network in Asturias

Posted by Unknown at 01:04

Surely you have an image of Asturias are mountainous and green landscapes. And it is true, for we are many (more if you live on the plateau, as is my case) who, when they traveled to Asturias, one of the main reasons is to enjoy those views. So today’s topic is to see the landscapes of the natural park Networks Nalón Valley in Asturias.

Photography by acebal

But if you also like mountainous regions with dense forests of beech and oak, for hiking, southeast of Asturias have an area not too well known, but truly beautiful corner store for you. I mean the natural park of networks, which are in the upper Nalón Valley. This area was declared a natural park in 1996, and in 2001 Unesco included it among its Biosphere Reserves.

Branes in the Redes Natural Park in the Valley of Nalón in Asturias:

Nature Park On Highway Network AS-117 from Oviedo, via Pola de Laviana, and after passing through the banks of the reservoir Tarna, you up to the port of Tarna, and on the border with León.

The park covers 377 square kilometers and the two councils are Sobrescobio and Case, which represent about 50 towns and villages. Field Case is precisely where you find the Visitors Center Network, with all the useful information for visiting.

And what can you do in the natural park of Networks? Walk and enjoy its lush landscapes. To do this, regardless of whether you go by car to the port of Tarna the winding road that will offer beautiful views, it is advisable to climb the mountains for hiking and deeper into the forests of beech trees.

Photography by brunosan

Cabins in the Vega de Brañagallones Natural Park Network in Asturias:

The most visited place to enjoy these landscapes is known as Vega Brañagallones, a typical traditional braña where you can see herds of livestock.

Vega Brañagallones To climb, you can do walk after leaving the car in a parking lot in the small town of Bezanes. But another option is to hire a taxi service 4 × 4 that will allow you to above, and from there you can go hiking in the nearby mountains.

Brañagallones way up to the natural park in Asturias Network:

But apart from this braña up, you can also go to other networks park mountains, such as INCOSE Collada, or hiking, or in that 4 × 4 vehicle. This allows you to stroll through lush beech too, see chestnut and birch, and also spot wildlife in the area.

And you can spot wildlife in the area. The most emblematic Network are the chamois, but there are deer, roe deer and wolves. And even this year it has been a bear sighting.

Hiking in the nature of networks in the Nalón Valley in Asturias:

Besides mammals, you can also see raptors such as vultures, falcons, hawks and, likewise, we have identified six pairs of golden eagles.

Photography by antecessor

Finally, your visit to the natural park in Asturias Network allows you to see examples of rural culture, including traditional workshop madreñas in Banners, and taste the local cuisine. And, in this respect, do not forget to discover and try the tasty cheese Casín.

Bon voyage!

Punta Uva, Cocles and other beautiful beaches near Puerto Viejo

Posted by Unknown at 01:03

In the vicinity of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, in the Southern Caribbean of Costa Rica, you will find some of the most beautiful beaches in the country … and the world. Very near the town of Puerto Viejo itself you are black beach of great scenic beauty and has the black sand, a unique peculiarity in the area.

Photography by jiangkeren

Aspects of place:

In Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita and Punta Uva, three, six and nine miles, respectively, of Puerto Viejo, on the road to Manzanillo, you can enjoy the idyllic images, with sand beaches shaped by silky, crystal clear waters and green palm trees stand a few meters from the sea.

These locations are excellent for snorkeling and diving among coral, or to rest on the sand and indulge the senses in the warm Caribbean waters.

Photography by baxterclaus

Surfers can download your adrenaline to slide your board on the dreaded Salsa Brava beach in Cocles, more powerful wave of Caribbean Costa Rica and Costa Rica. This beach is especially dedicated to the surfers.

All these beaches that appear on the route along the coast between Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo are truly movie. One wild, with very few people, surrounded by a nature full, dense, tropical fauna and flora.

All hotels or cabins that are offered to tourists are of proper quality level. There are no resorts or resorts or golf courses and marina. The larger hotels are no more than 40 rooms, bungalows provided. mimicking in many cases the local building cabin style, and abounding small businesses that offer rooms or booths, as generally call them here. There are also rental homes of all types, quality and prices.

Along the coast there are places and iconic places with beautiful beaches, and bars or restaurants where meals offer a quality, well priced and always with the great Imperial and Pilsen beer in hand.

In the area of Playa Chiquita is located Jaguar Rescue Center. This is a unique and highly commendable, led by a Spanish-Italian couple, to interact with wildlife in Costa Rica and help a good cause.

Photography by EverJean

It is a rehabilitation center for injured animals, abused and confiscated in order to reintroduce them to their natural habitat in protected areas. You can visit making a donation, and during the visit will be in contact with monkeys, cats, toucans, sloths, raccoons, anteaters, marsupials, reptiles, amphibians, and so on.

All these animals live in the center in a state of semi-freedom waiting to face life in their natural environment. You can also see all species of venomous snakes of Costa Rica.

Good trip to Costa Rica!

The legendary Carl Theodor Bridge – Heidelberg

Posted by Unknown at 01:02

If you had the opportunity to visit Prague, you know that one of the icons of the Czech capital is the Charles Bridge, which is also a maximum concentration of tourists. For in the historic city of Heidelberg in Germany, there is also a Charles Bridge, part of its most characteristic image, from the viewpoints of the Philosopher’s Walk.

Photography by en.structurae.de

Actually called Karl Theodor Bridge in honor of the Elector Palatine Carl Theodor, who had it built in 1786 in place of an original wooden bridge in the late thirteenth century. This was destroyed by a flood in 1784, it was decided to build a new stone bridge.

Precisely in the left column of the first arch of the bridge, after the Puerta de Carlos, you can see the dates indicated and the height of various floods in Heidelberg, which is reflected among the great flood of 1784. To reach the Charles Bridge Teodoro from Heidelberg’s historic center, on the north side of Market Square Steinger take the short street, with restaurants and lively pubs.

Photography by www.pictures-europe.com

Carlos door in Heidelberg:

Nothing you take the first view of the aforementioned Carlos Gate, a triumphal arch that once formed part of the city walls. In a plane that is in a former lookout Philosopher’s Walk, you can see the image before the actual bridge of stone, which was covered and had a tower on the shore opposite the Gate of Charles.

The first thing you’ll notice before crossing the bridge is the modern metal sculpture is located to the left of the Puerta de Carlos.

Karl Theodor Bridge in Heidelberg:

This is the monkey bridge, which was installed in the 70′s and remember a historic sculpture of a monkey with a mirror that for centuries was located on that site, which represents the idea that before criticizing others, look you in a mirror, because you might discover you’re a monkey.

The tradition says that if you touch it, you better health and return to Heidelberg. The truth is that the monkey is an attraction for tourists.

Crossing the bridge you will see that there are two large sculptures in honor of Charles Theodore and Pallas Athena. That, the best panoramic views of the Charles Bridge Heidelberg Theodore will have them from the Philosopher’s Walk. Just the straight path and direct access to it find it just across the bridge.

Photography by fuckyeahgermany.tumblr.com

Not the Charles Bridge in Prague, but when you visit see why Heidelberg is one of the icons of the German city.

Good trip to Heidelberg!

Basic tips for your sightseeing tour in Berlin

Posted by Unknown at 23:42

Berlin has recently become one of Europe’s most visited cities by the Spanish. Moreover, it is an ideal destination for a trip taking advantage of a bridge, and the capital of Germany will find many and varied attractions.

Photography by líquen

If you are preparing your first trip to Berlin, will be useful these basic tips for your sightseeing tour, which will allow you to get a first glimpse of what you’ll encounter. These tips you present on your trip to Berlin:

1 .- Berlin is huge. It is the largest in Europe, surpassing cities like London and Paris, but with its 3.4 million inhabitants has much lower density.

Therefore, when visiting Berlin is going to be essential to use public transport, in particular, not very metro, buses or trams are only in the area of the former communist sphere of influence the GDR.

2 .- When you fly to Berlin, you have two possible airports where arrival. The Tegel, the old western town, is located near the city center, just 6 kilometers (about 15 euros if you prefer to ride).

Shonefeld airport is further away, outside the center urgano, about 18 miles, and this year 2011 is scheduled to open its new big terminal, which will be renamed Berlin-Brandenburg airport. Thus, in the summer of 2012 and will have closed the Tegel.

3 .- Despite the large area of Berlin, you can raise to at least part of your trip by bicycle.

In Berlin there are 3.5 million bicycles and only 1.2 million cars. When you get to see that it’s a city completely designed and made by bicycles.

The price of renting a bike in Berlin for a day between 10 and 12 euros, and many visitors opt for this mode of transport to move around the tourist areas of the city. If not, it is advisable to buy a card transport to move around Berlin.

4 .- Berlin Your visit should focus on four themes.

On one hand Berlin as the capital of the German Empire of the Hohenzollern dynasty in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The subsequent Berlin as the capital of Nazi Germany, and the memorials dedicated to the Jewish people.

The wall that separated the east and west of the city from 1961 to 1990 should be another of the protagonists of your visit, with highlights including Checkpoint Charlie or the East Gallery.

And finally, as the capital Berlin museum, and specifically, the Museum Island, a World Heritage Site. They say that Berlin has 170 museums. But if you’re not a big fan of museums, you must aim an essential visit the Pergamon Museum.

Photography by http2007

5 .- As for the areas to visit in Berlin, the major axis will be joining the Victory Column in Tiergarten park great, next to which is the seat of German parliament, the Reichstag, past the Brandenburg Gate .

Then continue down the avenue Unter Der Lint, up to the enormous space of Alexanderplatz, the heart of former East Berlin.

6 .- But the main tourist hub it should complement visiting other areas of the city, specifically, the modern Potsdamer Platz square, known as the Jewish Quarter Quarter Farms, near Alexanderplatz, and if you want to know a very popular Turkish Quarter.

Photography by Zyllan

7 .- Of course, keep in mind that the overwhelming majority of buildings in Berlin were destroyed during World War II, so that all buildings and monuments that you’ll have had to be completely rebuilt.

8 .- Prepare to start the day with a guided tour of Berlin. So I had the opportunity to do so in fact in recent trips to various cities such as Heidelberg, Toledo, Malaga and Berlin itself, and a visit of about two-three hours you an overview of the city, allowing you then plan visits that you find most interesting.

Moreover, in the case of Berlin has guided tours in Spanish, and also with other options like making the trip by bicycle.

9 .- As for what to eat in Berlin, you’ll find with the typical German cuisine. And in particular, see that are typical sausages and beer Berliner Currywurst.

10 .- Finally I will say that Berlin is not an expensive city. Furthermore, it is more expensive than Madrid or Barcelona when searching for hotels and the prices are very similar to eating at restaurants or drinking beer or soft drinks in bars.

Enjoy your trip to Berlin!

10 tips for home exchange for your holiday trip

Posted by Unknown at 23:40

They may not know that the exchange is an increasingly popular formula to tackling a holiday trip.

I have not personally done any home exchange, but a friend to come by regularly, not just for summer vacation trips, but for weekends and other festive times of the year.

Photography by Olivier Bruchez

As a summary of their experiences, then I’ll give you 10 tips to ask yourself when home exchange for your vacation travel.

1.-way to travel:

The exchange is a different formula to travel, because you can “live” the real mood of the city and the country you visit. You tend to know and interact with family or neighbors of the people you exchange your home. And live as if it were your home.

2 .- Distrust?

The main reluctance is exchanged houses is the distrust of strangers residing for a time in your home. But as I say those who use this formula regularly, there is a general tendency to look carefully the house where you live, knowing that so will your home.

Moreover, contrary to what you might think, who use this system tend to be professionals and people with medium-high cultural level.

3.-Suitable for families with children:

The formula of exchange is especially suitable for families with young children, so that by sharing the house with a family in similar circumstances, you have the appropriate equipment in order to live comfortably with children.

4 .- Cost Savings:

No doubt a great advantage of exchange is the cost savings you get to save to pay hotels and, if desired, to power cooking and eating at home. And these savings are greater if a family is about.

5 .- Which company to choose:

To carry out home exchange on the internet are many companies that offer this service. Regardless of the price differences, the important thing is to choose the company that offers a very wide range of homes on the maximum number of cities and countries.

Note that you have to discharge on an annual basis (although there are offers for periods of less) and it is important to have a wide variety of choices, as the annual fee is not cheap, but it is also the only cost.

Photography by amayzun

6 .- How to register on the web for home exchanges:

By signing up on the platform of exchange, you publish the most relevant information for your home. Also, you must specify suitable dates for the exchange and the countries with which you would like to exchange.

You also indicate whether you admit children at home as well as pets and smokers. And if you’re willing to share the use of car (this is usually not so common …)

7 .- How to choose the house to share:

It is time to select where you would like to stay home. Regardless of the exchange offers that you receive on your part you have to send multiple requests, view of the different contacts and responses, and selecting the people you and the house that you think is more appropriate.

To finish specifying and closing the deal, it may be good to make a phone call or a video call with Skype.

In general, you should agree to exchange well in advance. And if it is for summer vacation, and want to go to Germany … in May and do not try, they are very proactive.

8 .- How to leave your house ready for visitors:

Ideally, when visitors come to your house (surely you’ll be coming to yours …), to be greeted by a neighbor, family member or friend to show you the house and explain the operation of basic equipment (kitchen, television … ).

If you can not be the case, you should stop writing (in English, if they are foreigners) the basic instructions for operation of the equipment.

In the experience of my friends, do not be surprised if you find a house to get a welcome gift (flowers, a small gift …) or even a meal already prepared.

Photography by » Zitona «

9 .- Do you find your home in good condition?

Typically, when you get home, just notice that someone has been living in it. In the experiences I have, there is often nothing impaired, but are never totally safe from any incident.

10 .- Exchanges for the holidays:

The exchange houses are open to many variations, as do for a weekend, or leave your house in a given period in which you’re traveling in another city, and afterwards go to the house of the people you’ve exchanged.

There is also a hospitality exchange formula: first get to the people you exchange, who reside in your home for a few days with you, then you go home (or vice versa …)

Making friends: This formula favors you can meet people with whom you exchange the house, and even make friends. There are people exchanging their homes in two different cities in Spain and stay for a coffee half way through their road trips.

Good luck!

Visit the Automotive Museum in Malaga

Posted by Unknown at 23:38

One of the most stunning views you can do on your visit to the city of Malaga is the Automobile Museum, which since September of last year 2010 occupies modern facilities within the grounds of the former Tobacco Factory.

Photography by www.motorspain.com

Malaga This new museum is home to most of the private collection of Portuguese Joao de Magalhaes, who in 2004 had reached an agreement with the Malaga authorities so that it was the forerunner of the current museum.

Travel ideas:

Do you like cars and, in particular, classic cars? On your trip to Malaga tourism have an essential event in the Automotive Museum, where you can enjoy an excellent collection of classic cars. And if you’re not a big fan of cars, I also recommend this visit, after which most certainly appreciate their cultural value.

When I recently spent a weekend in Malaga visit the old town, was not aware of the existence of Automotive Museum undoubtedly overshadowed by tradition from the Picasso Museum and the then newly opened Museo Carmen Thyssen.

Automotive Museum in Malaga is the result of an agreement reached in 2004 the Portuguese Joao de Magalhaes collector with the authorities Malaga, why in the new museum show much of his collection of classic cars.

Photography by www.diariosur.es 

The museum was established in the grounds of the old snuff mill, which dates back to 1927, and was empty since 1980. This is not just a museum of classic cars, but also collects the most curious collections of decorative, automotive equipment and accessories.

The museum is organized into ten topic areas, from the Belle Epoque, the Golden 20, or cars that popularized the automobile, to Art Deco, dream cars, the British tradition, or the tuning and alternative energy.

So you can see the oldest car, a 1898 Winner of the Usa, the car of the mother or a picnic, a Fuldamobile, better known as the Egg, a Fiat Topolino, etc …

You will also see legendary brands such as Hispano Suiza, Bugatti, Mercedes, Cadillac, or already extinct, like Excalibur, Delage or Cord. And no shortage of futuristic cars and alternative energy, as a curious steam model 1910.

Fuldamobile Velorex 1960 and “The Egg” of 1955 in Automotive Museum in Malaga. In your tour stop to read the information signs that accompany each car, which not only show you the make and model in question, but they give an interesting view of its history and use. And besides, you will see collections of vintage suitcases, hats, tires, horns, etc.., Which makes this museum a period atmosphere.

Photography by www.lasescapadas.com

Automotive Museum in Malaga you find Sor Teresa Prat Avenue 15, within the precincts of the Tabacalera building. Visiting hours from Malaga Automotive Museum hours are Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 19 pm (closed Mondays), and the prices of tickets are 6 euros for adults, 4.50 euros for students, and 3 euros for seniors +65 and children under 6 years.

Good Luck!

Tips for tourists in Bucharest

Posted by Unknown at 23:36

A few days ago we made a weekend getaway to Bucharest, the capital of Romania, and as good guests we blended into the environment. But the camera to his chest betrayed us all the time. This article, far from being a comprehensive guide aims to give some advice.

Photography by garycycles7

Arrival in Bucharest:

When we got to the airport (and also in the city) we will find plenty of taxis available. Beware! The driver’s smile is not a factor indicating the quality of service. In Bucharest there are two types of taxi: those operated by a company, generally good, and independents generally bad (expensive). Taxis are distinguished by good bear the name and phone numbers of the company they are associated with clearly visible. Although taxis do everything bad to look like them. In any case we must look at the rates per mile than usually seen in the side doors. Independents tend to operate in large tourist areas and at the airport, Gara de Nord, Piata Universitatii, Piata Unirii and Casco Viejo.

If our choice is the train will arrive at Gara de Nord. In principle no problem but we must remember that as a point of arrival of tourists the place is full of hustlers willing to take advantage of unsuspecting, especially those who arrive with a backpack. The tactic they use is the classic, someone approaches you, distracts you from one side and a buddy you put your hand on the other. Best to avoid problems is to get the hell out of there by taxi, tram or metro.

Visiting Bucharest:

Walking around town is very pleasant because there are many parks and recreational areas but do pay attention to avoid disappointment.

Photography by m0n5t3r

Signaling works:

This is something that does not seem to give much importance and “mess up” in a ditch is relatively easy if we walk clueless.

Crossing the street in Bucharest:

Before crossing the street look both ways and then look again. A green light is no guarantee free passage and is very, very common for cars to pass at high speed in red. The main artery of Bucharest, Calea Victoriei, looks more like a racetrack than a normal street.

Stray dogs in Bucharest:

Bucharest is said that there are many stray dogs. In my area there was little while strolling through a park or grooves are some as in any city. Common sense dictates that we be careful because having no owner can not be vaccinated or have diseases. In my case I found only one a little rabiosillo (or rather scared) I barked in Calea Victoriei. In general they are seen with their tails between their legs.

Photography by Vasenka

Parking:

We do not use the car but is it is very difficult to park. But if you find a few kind people who where and how to do it, do not forget to give them a couple of LEI (Romanian currency) in gratitude and to “take care of you car.”

One of the myths of Bucharest says you can cross the city from end to end without touching the ground. Being an exaggeration think it would be possible to do jumping from car to car because when parking anywhere is good. Give a stroll through the Old Town to check.

Dangerous areas in Bucharest:

Like in every city there are places where it is better not to go, especially after dark. In Bucharest they are Gara de Nord, Pantelimon and Ferentari. A night visit will give us many ballots to end bad night.

Beyond these places remember that only the main streets of Bucharest have adequate lighting so do not go out after dark adventure patrol outside the school.

Where to eat in Bucharest:

If you go to a restaurant you should know that tips are not included in the bill and it is customary to leave at least 10%. Speaking of restaurants I will mention the most famous of Bucharest, Caru cu bere. If you go say that you should wait a minimum of 15 minutes, they really mean 45 or who have no idea. The place is amazing, the food is very good.

As for food, in principle tap water is drinkable but its metal content and high concentration of chlorine can not make it advisable to drink it. And besides this, do you think of something else?.

Finally, in subsequent deliveries that we discover this great city should not miss on any European tour in Eastern Europe. Talk about the good treatment and kindness of our relatives Latinos.

Visual guide to getting lost in the Oktoberfest

Posted by Unknown at 23:35

Visual guide to getting lost in the Oktoberfest

This trip gives us the opportunity to see the city of Munich adorned for the great event of the year, the Oktoberfest, the most popular festival in Germany that receives millions of visitors each year.

Photography by GAP089

List tents of Oktoberfest:

Then we will follow the map to tell about each tent.

1. Hippodrom Das, one of the smaller (capacity 1000 seats) and whose decor resembles a circus. The sponsor is Spaten-Franziskaner beer.

2. Armbrustschützenzelt, the tent of the archers whose name comes from an event that is part of the festival since 1895. The sponsor is Paulaner.

3. Hofbräu-Festzelt, one of the most popular and the largest with capacity for 10,000 people if we have the tent, beer garden balconies and Annex.

4. Hacker-Festzelt with a capacity of just under 9500 is another heavyweight addition to being perhaps the most beautiful of all.

Photography by AbhijeetRane

5. Schottenhamel, is the oldest tent throughout the festival and this takes place the opening ceremony of the Oktoberfest. It is sponsored by Spaten-Franziskaner.

6. Winzerer Fähndl, the tower will recognize by the Paulaner beer mug in style.

7. Schützen-Festhalle, the tent closest to the statue of Bavaria Frau. The sponsorship is Löwenbräu.

8. Wiesen-Schänke Käfer is a small tent that serves Paulaner and is open until one o’clock.

9. Weinzelt Kufflers for those who will not only beer (Paulaner Weißbier) and prefer wine. Also open until one.

10. Löwenbräu-Festhalle, with capacity for 8500 people is marked by a tower on which a lion roars.

11. Bräurosl of medium-large, 6200 people. The first Sunday celebrates the Gay Sunday event. The sponsor is Hacker-Pschorr.

12. Augustiner-Festhalle, the family tent. Tuesday is the “Children’s Day.” Will teach them to drink from a young age?. The sponsor is the Augustiner beer.

13. Ochsenbraterei whose main specialty is the roast beef. Sponsorship is provided by Spaten beer.

14. Vroni Fischer, carp complement for those who like a good Augustiner with a plate of fish.

Photography by AbhijeetRane

It should be borne in mind that if there is no early entry into the tent is practically impossible and, once inside, without a place in the tables do not serve you so get a beer is almost mission impossible unless you ask for happy for those Germans who are up to the minimum to the table to dance.

In the Oktoberfest tents is not all there are also plenty of food stalls and attractions. Arguably, it is a great amusement park where you can go with friends to “toñarse” or with the family to ride the Ferris wheel or roller coaster. That itself as one of the tips says Manuel, mixing both activities carries an increased risk especially if first passed by a tent.

The whole show takes place under the watchful eyes of Frau Bavaria, a bronze statue that embodies the region of Bavaria since 1850 and do not miss your appointment with the Oktoberfest. The monument is 19 meters tall and sits on a pedestal that add 8 more. Inside is a staircase that leads to a viewpoint located in the head.

Let’s say goodbye with a couple of photos that reflect the party atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the traditional tourist thing.

Until next year!