holiday travel

holiday travel — No Comments
12
Oct 11

Planning to Travel with a Newborn or Infant

Packing tips

Make a list of all baby’s equipment, clothes, toys, and food you need approximately two weeks before endeavouring on your journey. Edit every time you remember something else. Don’t leave it for the last minute! You do not need to pack everything, some things may be obtained or are available on the spot, but always check beforehand.

If you feel overwhelmed by the amount of baby-related packing to do, travel somewhere where you don’t know if a particular baby food or formula brand is available, or you simply do not want to spend your vacation abroad hunting around stores for diapers, you can single out some special online services which are available to facilitate you. Through them, the newborn mother can order and purchase a variety of baby supplies and have them conveniently shipped to your hotel even before you arrive.

Another important issue when on the road is sterilizing the baby bottles. This can be a tough if not impossible mission in some circumstances. Bringing a steam sterilizer from home implies more baggage, while access to a hob and pot to use the old-fashioned way might not be readily available. Fortunately, there are several handy travel options that the newborn mother can use: cold sterilisation tablets, liquid sterilisation solution, and even steriliser bags for use in a microwave.

If travelling by car, inquire in advance about the petrol stations on your way which have a kids` section and where appropriate changing facilities are available. Pack a folding changing pad, small towel, plastic bags for diapers` disposing, and baby wipes in case you need to change a nappy somewhere else.

Another useful tip for the newborn mother is to pack an inflatable baby swimming pool if you’re going to the beach. Inflate but leave empty except for a soft towel and let your baby play inside, safely away from the sand which may otherwise swallow or cause skin irritation. The pool is also great to use at the hotel as a baby bathtub. It can be conveniently folded and packed away in your suitcase when travelling.

Feeding

 When on the road, an easy way to warm the formula or baby food is to leave the container under running hot water from the tap. Ask an air attendant, waitress at a restaurant, or other staff member (depending on your location) to warm the food for you. Make sure to check it’s not too hot when they hand it back. If you are breastfeeding, purchase a comfortable nursing top and bra and carry an extra blanket which will make the process as discrete as possible. Bear in mind that in some countries, breastfeeding in public might not be as well accepted as in your own culture. So, inquire in advance to avoid embarrassing moments. When flying by plane, mothers are allowed to take milk and formula on board, but you should check out the exact requirements before travelling and consult on regulations at foreign airports.

General planning tips

Remember to consult with your paediatrician before the travel and check if there are any vaccinations to be made beforehand. Unfortunately, some necessary immunizations for certain countries, for example, against yellow fever, are not appropriate for babies. Ask about a list of the basics to pack in your first aid kit. Don’t forget about essentials such as mosquito repellent and sun screen (at least SPF30) if relevant for your destination. Furthermore, allow plenty of time to organize your child’s travel documents such as passport and insurance. You can apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you are going to travel in Europe. This can come in handy for free or emergency health care, but keep in mind that it is not a substitute for travel insurance!

  There can never be overplanning when a newborn mother is travelling with her precious baby. These are just a few tips to make your journey comfortable. Make sure you don’t leave everything for the last minute and take some time to plan your travel details. Ensure that your baby is comfortable and happy, and you’ll be able to enjoy a stress-free trip

Make a list of all baby’s equipment, clothes, toys, and food you need approximately two weeks before endeavouring on your journey. Edit every time you remember something else. Don’t leave it for the last minute! You do not need to pack everything, some things may be obtained or are available on the spot, but always check beforehand.

 If you feel overwhelmed by the amount of baby-related packing to do, travel somewhere where you don`t know if a particular baby food or formula brand is available, or you simply do not want to spend your vacation abroad hunting around stores for diapers, you can single out some special online services which are available to facilitate you. Through them, the newborn mother can order and purchase a variety of baby supplies and have them conveniently shipped to your hotel even before you arrive.

 Another important issue when on the road is sterilizing the baby bottles. This can be a tough if not impossible mission in some circumstances. Bringing a steam sterilizer from home implies more baggage, while access to a hob and pot to use the old- fashioned way might not be readily available. Fortunately, there are several handy travel options that the newborn mother can use: cold sterilisation tablets, liquid sterilisation solution, and even steriliser bags for use in a microwave.

If travelling by car, inquire in advance about the petrol stations on your way which have a kids’ section and where appropriate changing facilities are available. Pack a folding changing pad, small towel, plastic bags for diapers’  disposing, and baby wipes in case you need to change a nappy somewhere else.

 Another useful tip for the newborn mother is to pack an inflatable baby swimming pool if you’re going to the beach. Inflate but leave empty except for a soft towel and let your baby play inside, safely away from the sand which may otherwise swallow or cause skin irritation. The pool is also great to use at the hotel as a baby bathtub. It can be conveniently folded and packed away in your suitcase when travelling.

Feeding

 When on the road, an easy way to warm the formula or baby food is to leave the container under running hot water from the tap. Ask an air attendant, waitress at a restaurant, or other staff member (depending on your location) to warm the food for you. Make sure to check it’s not too hot when they hand it back. If you are breastfeeding, purchase a comfortable nursing top and bra and carry an extra blanket which will make the process as discrete as possible. Bear in mind that in some countries, breastfeeding in public might not be as well accepted as in your own culture. So, inquire in advance to avoid embarrassing moments. When flying by plane, mothers are allowed to take milk and formula on board, but you should check out the exact requirements before travelling and consult on regulations at foreign airports.

General planning tips

 Remember to consult with your paediatrician before the travel and check if there are any vaccinations to be made beforehand. Unfortunately, some necessary immunizations for certain countries, for example, against yellow fever, are not appropriate for babies. Ask about a list of the basics to pack in your first aid kit. Don’t forget about essentials such as mosquito repellent and sun screen (at least SPF30) if relevant for your destination. Furthermore, allow plenty of time to organize your child’s travel documents such as passport and insurance. You can apply for a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you are going to travel in Europe. This can come in handy for free or emergency health care, but keep in mind that it is not a substitute for travel insurance!

 There can never be overplanning when a newborn mother is travelling with her precious baby. These are just a few tips to make your journey comfortable. Make sure you don’t leave everything for the last minute and take some time to plan your travel details. Ensure that your baby is comfortable and happy, and you’ll be able to enjoy a stress-free trip

holiday travel — No Comments
23
Sep 11

Tel Aviv Nightlife in a Multifaceted, Never Sleeping City

For many, the idea of Israel gives rise to associations of conventionalism. This is so far from the truth. In fact, the Israeli society, especially the culture of Tel Aviv, is very liberal and open-minded, an island of democracy and modernity in the Middle East. The Tel Aviv nightlife is vibrant, pulsating, and active.

Airport Security Measures

While Tel Aviv is a liberal and cosmopolitan city, here are some things to keep in mind. If this is your first time traveling to Israel, you may be surprised by the tight security measures at the airport. Flying with the Israeli El Al, I was asked to arrive at the airport at least three hours in advance. El Al is among the few airlines with armed security guards, and its airport representatives are very good at asking questions.  ‘Why did you choose to travel to Israel?’, ‘Why now?’, ‘What do you plan to see there?’, ‘Any friends in Tel Aviv?’, ‘Who bought your laptop?’, ‘What about your cell phone?’, ‘Turn it off’, ‘Now turn it on’, ‘What do you do for a living?’, and it goes like that, with you just asking for a glass of water.

Landing at Ben Gurion

With the security check finally over, it is all a piece of cake. You hop in the airplane and enjoy excellent service and food. You can choose from 14 or so different menus if you check in online. Landing at Ben Gurion, you can take a train to Tel Aviv, which will get you to the center (Merkaz) in about 15 minutes. Don’t travel on Shabbat as I once did. The last train to the city leaves at 3 p.m., and the only transport you can use are taxis. In fact, hardly anything works on Shabbat, except for the big grocery stores such as AM:PM (they are open 24/7). You can’t go shopping; so, spend some time at the magnificent beaches in the area of Ben Yehuda Blvd.

Sightseeing on Shabbat

If cultural tourism is your thing, and you want to go sightseeing on Shabbat, you can join a free tour on Bauhaus architecture, offered by the municipality of Tel Aviv. There are many examples of Bauhaus architecture, and you will see some of the most important ones. Tel Aviv has many interesting cultural venues, with exciting theater performances and fascinating museums. The national theater of Israel, Habima Theater, is worth paying a visit. Habima was first established in 1918 in Moscow and re-established in Tel Aviv in 1931. It features performances of classical plays by the best actors in the country.

Go party

 On the downside, Shabbat is a day of festivities and Tel Aviv nightlife is particularly active. And yes, the real city that never sleeps is Tel Aviv, not New York. It is hard to fall asleep at night, especially if you are in the downtown area. If it is the night of Shabbat – you better go parting as you won’t be able to sleep for sure.

Drug use

 In fact, what first comes to mind about Tel Aviv culture, at least for some tourists, is Tel Aviv nightlife and entertainment. One facet of entertainment is drugs. Weed in Israel is not that strong, but other types of drugs are widely available. This situation has led some to ask whether Tel Aviv goes so far as to endorse drug use. It is estimated that 75 percent of the property crimes involve breaking-and-entering by heroin addicts and other crimes perpetrated by addicts who don’t have enough cash to sustain their habit. The city of Tel Aviv has set up clinics where heroin is dispensed to addicts who have made an (unsuccessful) effort to kick the habit.

Tel Avivians and you

 This is about the darker side of the Tel Aviv cultural landscape. Culture is a broad concept, however, and in this case, the mini-society here involves two major demographic groups. The first is the older population – the people who built the city and are greatly respected by the other residents and the authorities of Tel Aviv. The second group is made up of the younger people who have come to the city to seek prosperity after completing their mandatory military service, which is three years for men and two for women.

 What may surprise you is that Tel Avivians are quick to give their real opinions on matters, ranging from complicated political issues to simply being offered a drink. Some residents of this multifaceted city consider debate and criticism to be a national pastime. Tel Avivians are used to the crowds of tourists, running all over their city at all times of the year, and are very hospitable and friendly. Frequently, you will be invited to parties and dinners by people you have just met. If Tel Aviv nightlife is what you came for, go for it!

 Ladies should not expect men to open the doors and pay for dinner in Tel Aviv. The society of this city is liberal, equal, and open. You should know that you are expected to pay your own way.

 Those from Western nations will feel right at home in Tel Aviv, as locals are informal and spontaneous in their conversation. This comes in sharp contrast to Asian cultures – in Tel Aviv, you can speak your mind on any and every topic.

 Finally, visitors in this rather hot and humid city should dress casually and comfortably. Locals abide by this principle; so, don’t be surprised that they are usually underdressed on formal occasions.

holiday travel — No Comments
2
Sep 11

Partying in Ibiza – Wild Nights in the Mecca of Techno

‘Whoah! We”re Going To Ibiza’ sing Vengaboys in their evergreen dancing hit. Indeed, going to Ibiza is a mind-blowing lifetime experience, and your head will be going “shalalala” long after you return home. For one thing, nobody comes here to be a good boy or girl. This island is a place for never-ending parties, after-parties and hot nightlife, making your craziest fantasies come true.

Girls, Girls, Girls…

The weather is mild throughout the year, but you can be certain that the chicks are hot. They are mind-numbingly, head-blowingly, unequivocally, indubitably hot. So, if you want to try your luck picking up a hottie, you better work on your attractiveness and good looks. Once you are here, a couple of drinks in the hotel lobby or a few secret hits on the bong may be the perfect starter of your party night. Choosing a party place is not that easy because there are more night and dance clubs per square mile in Ibiza than you’ll ever see in any other place around the world.

Feel the Music in the Air

To start with, the island is the true Mecca of ear-shattering, head-blowing techno rhythms and a spiritual birthplace of most of the world’s top DJs. The latest flows in house music are interspersed with Spanish rhythms.

Dance through the Night in Amnesia

Standing on the main road between Ibiza and San Antonia, the legendary dance club Amnesia is housed in an eighteenth-century house. The club has an absolutely cool sound system which makes you feel the music as much as you hear it.

Your place in the club depends on your pocket – the big-shots and the rich folks inhabit the club’s terrace, where there are many well-stuffed bars and a pleasantly air conditioned VIP area for some of the more special occasions. The dance floors below are populated by loony ravers with dazed looks and enthusiastic dancers bouncing left and right. These party souls are cooled in some less sophisticated ways – by two giant air canons blasting fresh air at regular intervals. You will pay between 35 and 55 Euros for a Cream or Cocoon party and 20 or 30 Euros if there isn’t a special event going on. Once you are in, a beer will cost you 10 Euros while the price of hard booze starts from 12 Euro for a shot. Mind you that prices in the VIP area are several times higher.

Pacha – Ibiaza’s Original

Pacha (we mean the club, not the disgusting dish made of a boiled pig head and legs that the Bulgarians and Turkish eat), is considered the oldest party place around the island. Pacha is located ten or fifteen minutes away from the marina, depending on how much drinks you had had in the lobby. This is the home club of some top-notch DJs like Erick Morillo, Swedish House Mafia, David Morales, Deep Dish, David Guetta, Frankie Knuckles, etc. Pacha pleases all music tastes as the club has many different zones and bars, each with its own unique vibe.

Although the prices of drinks are about the same as in Amnesia – 12 Euros for a hard drink and ten for a beer, you gotta pay 40 to 60 Euros to get in, depending on the party buzz.

Other must-visit party places are: Privilege, Ibiza Space, El Divino, Es Paradis, and Ibiza Rocks. Most of the clubs in Ibiza pack well over five-thousand party-lovers while the show keeps going until dawn.

Ibiza: the Fort of Pot

Now, many writers on Ibiza try to sell stories about five star-hotels, snazzy restaurants and that kind of stuff, but the average, rank-and-file party fellah scarcely gives a dime about all this. For him or her, it is certainly more interesting to learn that the first marijuana film festival is organized on the island at the end of April and the beginning of May. Moreover, Ibiza has completely decriminalized it, becoming world famous for its outdoor-grown pot!