The Next Great Places to Explore: Plan 2009 travel now

These places will be on everybody’s lips two years from now.

Lesser Kudu
The Lesser Kudu is smaller than the Greater Kudu, it has more white stripes on it’s back and can easily jump over fences 2.5m high.

Turkey-Country at the Crossroads
For centuries, Turkey has been the bridge between East and West, between Christianity and Islam, between Europe and the Middle East. Although many things have changed over the years-Turkey was formerly known as the Ottoman Empire until the end of WWI, and Istanbul, was known as Constantinople-Turkish hospitality, and the beauty and mystery of [...]

For centuries, Turkey has been the bridge between East and West, between Christianity and Islam, between Europe and the Middle East. Although many things have changed over the years-Turkey was formerly known as the Ottoman Empire until the end of WWI, and Istanbul, was known as Constantinople-Turkish hospitality, and the beauty and mystery of the land have remained unchanged. Although Turkey is moving quickly into modernity by stabilizing the economy, cleaning up its human rights record, and trying to retain a secular government, whether or not the country is allowed to join the European Union remains to be seen.

Although the Turkish economy is stable and fairly strong these days, the country still remains a bargain for tourists and visitors, especially when compared to other destinations in the Mediterranean. Budget travelers can travel, eat, and sleep for about $40-60 a day, while around $100 per day, allows one to sleep in nice hotels, eat well, and travel in style. In the major cities, dollars, euros, and other major currencies can be used, but when traveling in smaller villages off the beaten path, keeping a ready supply of Turkish Liras is advised.

Turkey has a modern transportation system in place, and visitors can easily and cheaply get in, out, and around the country via airlines, ferries, trains, buses, and cars. The trains are typically slower than the buses, but many do have sleeper cars for long-distance travelers, and can be a good value. The Bosfor Ekspresi train connects between Budapest, Bucharest, Belgrade, and Sofia.

Istanbul has to be considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities, with domes, minarets, and modern building all standing side by side in a city that as been home to philosophers, crusaders, mystics, artists, and holy men for centuries. Surely, no trip would be complete without a visit to the Aya Sofya, or its western name, Haghia Sofia. Built 15 centuries ago, the structure was first built as a Christian church, but became a mosque for several centuries before finally ending up as a museum. Another gorgeous religious structure that shouldn’t be missed is the Blue Mosque, or the Mosque of Sultan Ahmet. A perfect example of the perfection and harmony that Islamic architecture strives for, the mosque contains the largest courtyard of any Ottoman mosque, and six minarets.

Although Turkey’s cities are enormous, loud, and chaotic, plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the Turkish sun exist in the resorts, smaller towns, and islands that make up the rest of the country. Bodrum is one of Turkey’s most gorgeous resorts, replete with picturesque white houses and villas, and a bay that is usually dotted with sailboats, swimmers, and others enjoying the Aegean waters. Although Bodrum is a place to come for relaxation and rejuvenation, partygoers can dance the night away in the town’s famous discos, which pump out the beats until the early morning hours.

Turkey is both modern and old fashioned. At once European, Asian, and Middle Eastern, it was one of the first multicultural societies on the planet, and a melting pot of different ideas, cultures, customs, and arts, but also a place still defining itself. Visitors will be awed by the architecture, inspired by the art, and romanced by the energy and verve that the cities and people have to offer.

Taiwan-The Beautiful Island
Taiwan is a place which mixes the old traditions with modern verve, a part of China, yet an island apart, and a place which packs over 23 million people into a 13,000 square mile island that features majestic mountain tops, tropical jungles, and Pacific beaches. Taiwan is certainly a place filled with electricity [...]

Taiwan is a place which mixes the old traditions with modern verve, a part of China, yet an island apart, and a place which packs over 23 million people into a 13,000 square mile island that features majestic mountain tops, tropical jungles, and Pacific beaches. Taiwan is certainly a place filled with electricity and energy, and is a great place for the more active traveler.

Taiwan, and its exciting and massive capital, Taipei, seem to be a city in a country which never sleeps. Any time of the day or night, there are plenty of activities going on, restaurants open for business, and bars, cafes, and shopping centers bustling with people. In fact, the city has a number of ‘night markets’ that only open during the evenings in alleyways and side streets which offer clothes, snacks, jewelry, and other goods, in a unique, lively atmosphere. In the past, night markets were places where pirated goods were available, but this practice has all but disappeared in favor of more legitimate ones. Visiting the night markets is a great way to get right into the middle of the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes of traditional Taiwan.

One of the least traditional, but most impressive sights that Taiwan has to offer is the Taipei 101 building, currently the tallest in the world. The behemoth’s full name is the Taipei International Financial Centre 101, and the building is as tall and imposing as its name implies. Standing 508 meters and boasting 101 floors, the building is a gorgeous example of modern architecture, and is built to invoke bamboo and rope. On the lower levels, Taipei 101 boasts an upscale shopping mall and gigantic food court. Visitors who aren’t afraid of heights can make their ways to one of the two observatory floors (located on the 89th and 91st levels) and will be rewarded with spectacular 360 degree views of the city. Although the building has only been open since 2004, it has quickly become a known landmark, featured in movies, commercials, and has been named one of the Seven New Wonders of the World.

Food lovers visiting Taiwan and China will be amazed at the blend of flavor, variety of offerings, and affordability of dishes that are available. For the most affordable meals in town, street vendors offer noodle and rice dishes that are as delicious as they are cheap. For just a dollar or two a day, budget travelers can find cheap, delicious, and nutritious plates and bowls. Of course, more demanding gourmands can find upscale restaurants offering world-class, modern dishes in cutting-edge environments. Vegetarians will have no problems fulfilling their needs, as the large Buddhist population assures that most restaurants offer meatless dishes, or can cater to most tastes and needs.

Although most people know that Taiwan is located in a sub-tropical zone, and may have seen the occasional typhoons that hit the island, certain times of the year and certain locations can get quite cold. In fact, the mountains regularly see snow in the winter (December to February) and also are swept by strong winter winds which can send the temperature plummeting in just a couple of hours. During the summers, the whole of the island is hot and humid, and heavy downpours are the norm.

Taiwan is a fascinating place, caught between trying to keep its own identity separate from China, but still being ethnically, economically, and (perhaps) politically tied to the mainland. The people are open and friendly, and levels of crime are about the same as in most big cities. A trip to this country combines the old traditions with the all the fascinating advances that modern life has to offer, and travelers will be rewarded with an experience you will never forget.

Volunteer in Kenya
Volunteer in Kenya might be the way for you to go to discover Kenya in a new way.

Beautiful Barbados: Enjoy untouristed beaches

Check out grandiose mansions and decadent restaurants or head to the wind-tousled Eastern Atlantic Coast to enjoy surf-friendly waters.

World’s Sexiest Resorts: Sand and steam rooms

We’ve chosen 11 resorts around the world that are best suited for a sexy getaway.

Frommers.com Airfare Deals and News for the Week of December 19, 2008
With the exception of Southwest’s post-holiday, system-wide sale, special offers are slim. But the airlines do have a new set of fees to slap on frequent flyer travel, along with a handful of add-ons they hope will bring in cash.

New Radisson resort opens in St. Martin
The 252-room Radisson St. Martin Resort is the 1,000th hotel in Carlson’s worldwide portfolio.

10 great places to leave the beauty unspoiled
Resolved: Pick a place to visit this year that does not involve trashing the planet. Call it “geotourism,” which is defined by …

Pauline Frommer’s Spend Less, See More Tips for Getting Money Abroad
In this series of monthly tips, you’ll find some terrific ideas to help you get the most out of every trip. This time around, I share some insight about how to get money abroad while paying the least for the transaction.

San Francisco’s 8 Best Walks
San Francisco’s 49 square miles are among the U.S.’s most densely populated urban spaces. Not to worry: They offer many ways to take in one of the most beautiful — and eminently walkable — cities in the world.

Second homes: Head for the hills outside Aspen
Snowmass traditionally has been a family resort. A new $2 billion, 80-acre base village now offers condos, shops and restaurants.

The 5 Wurst Ways to Eat Cheap in Berlin
It’s arguably a sin to come to Berlin and not eat sausage — at least once — especially if you’re traveling while penny-pinched. Here’s where to go.

The World’s 11 Best Places to Get Naked

Those in the know are also those in the buff. Find the best places to take it all off, from Nevada’s desert of hot bodies to Japan’s nude theme park.

More Reasons to Love California: Dancing Cows, Au Courant Dishware, and Loveable Neighborhood Grocers
Brand-new Spruce has style and substance By Mollie Chen I had strawberries yesterday and it was a sad reminder of what we on the East Coast are missing. Even as I am excited to cook my favorite fall soup (green…

The Sexiest Summit Suites: Penthouses around the globe

These ultimate penthouse suites have city views to swoon over, outrageous bedrooms, and sunken tubs begging for bubbles.

Cali, Final Edition: Keller Unbuttoned, Greasy Burritos, and Barbecued Oysters
Nick’s Cove: gorgeous views and fantastic oysters By Mollie Chen And finally, five last reasons to love California. Now I can stop procrastinating and get started on all the very late copy I owe our Production department. Liberty Farms duck…

Redwood tree house in Healdsburg

Not strictly a treehouse, rather a house with a giant redwood tree growing up through the middle of it, encased in glass as proof. Situated on the banks of the Russian River in Healdsburg, this unique property has been described as one of the most enchanting vacation rentals in all of California Wine Country.

Bali: Pervasive Spirituality

Enjoy daily ceremonies at more than 1,000 temples and beaches galore: white-sand spreads for sunbathers, gnarly breaks for surfers, volcanic black cliffs for nature-gazers.

Former church hall on the Isle of Wight
Built in 1895 and only ever used as a church meeting hall, this tin tabernacle near the village of Chale on the Isle of Wight has undergone a unique transformation by our friends at Vintage Vacations, in keeping with the stylish retro charm that we’ve come to love them for. 

1556: 25th Wedding Anniversary Trip-Sonoma County, by Cindy Ruth
North America, 2008. 8/3/08 to 8/8/08 25th Anniversary Trip to Sonoma Wine Country with some amazing winery visits as well as hiking and shopping.

Travel Tips: Grab the Lowest Travel Deals This Winter!
Winter Vacation We all need vacation once in a while, a break from all the daily humdrums but with t

Winter Vacation

We all need vacation once in a while, a break from all the daily humdrums but with the current economic condition, even thinking of going on a vacation can give a heart attack. But what if we knew a way to get the cheapest flight tickets, the best hotel deals and the lowest car rentals? Though this may sound a bit weird but it is possible. You don’t need to be a travel guru to get the best available travel deals. All you need is some research and some handy tips.

So if you are planning to take a break this winter, here are some tips to help you get the cheapest travel deals online!

Get the Lowest Flight Tickets: To get the cheapest airline ticket, advance booking is the most important of all. But worry not if you could not book your airfares well in advance. Try booking 7 to 8 days prior to your travel dates.

Book the best available hotel rate: There are many ways to get the best available hotel rates. For starter you can check out the many online travel sites like CheapOair, Hotwire, OneTravel, and Orbitz, to name a few. These online travel sites do really offer excellent deals and package. Do not forget to check out the hotel website also. Before booking do compare the prices that the different sites are offering. If you a member of a club or an association like American Automobile Association, ask them whether you can get a special deal or discounts. Walking in without any prior reservation and negotiation the rate with the front desk staff is also another way that you can give it a try.

Rent a Cheap Rental Car: Instead of crowded city transportations, this winter explore the city you are a visiting on a rental car. Even if you are a budget traveler, worry not. Just book your car well in advance. By booking in advance you not only get the cheapest car rental deals but you can also have a wider range to choose from. It is always advisable to book your rental car online as most car rental companies offer more discounts to those booking online.

1566: We Love Switzerland, by Kathryn J
Switzerland, 2008. Sightseeing and walking through Bernese Oberland and Central Switzerland 8/22/08 - 9/6/08, while taking full advantage of the Swiss trains.

1567: POSTCARD: Winnie the Pooh … and Tigger too!, by MariaV
United Kingdom, 2007. Take a magical trip to the 100 Acre Woods, an easy day trip from London.

World’s Sexiest Resorts: Sand and steam rooms

We’ve chosen 11 resorts around the world that are best suited for a sexy getaway.

1574: Istanbul and some Sights of Western Anatolia, by Dennis Switzer
Turkey, 2008. Over 17 days in September of 2008 Dennis and his daughter visited Istanbul, the Turquoise Coast, Pamukkale and Selcuk.

Holiday Cruising: Celebrate Christmas the Unusual Way!
The holiday season is almost upon us. And for those planning out those usual Christmas parties at ho

Relax this Holiday: Yoga Retreats

We’ve discovered ten yoga retreat destinations where the line between wellness and living well is blissfully blurred.

More Free Travel books - More Free Travel Guides to North America, Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia and South America
A collection of over 200 free travel books and travel guides that you can read for free online for North America, Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia and South America… Click to read more…

The Hawaiian Archipelago - Six Months Among The Palm Groves, Coral Reefs, And Volcanoes Of The Sandwich Islands By Isabella L. Bird
Within the last century the Hawaiian islands have been the topic of various works of merit, and some explanation of the reasons which have led me to enter upon the same subject are necessary. I was travelling for health, when circumstances induced me to land on the group, and the benefit which I derived from the climate tempted me to remain for nearly seven months. During that time the necessity of leading a life of open air and exercise as a means of recovery, led me to travel on horseback to and fro through the islands, exploring the interior, ascending the highest mountains, visiting the active volcanoes, and remote regions which are known to few even of the residents, living among the natives, and otherwise seeing Hawaiian life in all its phases. Click to read more…

The Settlement At Port Jackson, By Watkin Tench
When it is recollected how much has been written to describe the Settlement of New South Wales, it seems necessary if not to offer an apology, yet to assign a reason, for an additional publication. The Author embarked in the fleet which sailed to found the establishment at Botany Bay. He shortly after published a Narrative of the Proceedings and State of the Colony, brought up to the beginning of July, 1788, which was well received, and passed through three editions. This could not but inspire both confidence and gratitude; but gratitude, would be badly manifested were he on the presumption of former favour to lay claim to present indulgence. He resumes the subject in the humble hope of communicating information, and increasing knowledge, of the country, which he describes. Click to read more…

A Cookbook for the Google Generation
By Mollie Chen I’ve got shelf upon shelf of cookbooks at home - everything from Julia Child’s classic Mastering the Art of French Cooking to Michel Richard’s gorgeous Happy in the Kitchen - plus dozens more squirreled away in my…

The London Underground
For travelers who have never been to, or aren’t familiar with London, the underground rapid transit system, much like the subway system in New York, can be a great help for getting around, quickly from place to place. With hundreds of stops, detailed schedules, service near airports, hotels, popular attractions, and virtually everywhere, The London [...]

For travelers who have never been to, or aren’t familiar with London, the underground rapid transit system, much like the subway system in New York, can be a great help for getting around, quickly from place to place. With hundreds of stops, detailed schedules, service near airports, hotels, popular attractions, and virtually everywhere, The London Underground is one of the most popular ways to traverse the city, for both locals and those there on vacation. Urban areas can be frustrating, and hard to reach if you’re not sure where you’re going, or don’t do so well with directions. However, reading over the schedules, many tourists will find that the rail runs pretty much everywhere, and at various times, which can help a frustrated situation as well.

The London Underground, despite being a very old rapid transit system, will never remain a stagnant railway. Throughout the years, quite a few different changes have been taking place in the Underground’s railways. The city of London has expanded over the years, which means that the city’s transit must as well, and several new projects for expansion are in the works for the Underground. Some examples of new projects are the new station for the Heathrow Airport, on the Picadilly line, another new station on Wood Lane for patrons at the Westfield London shopping center, as well as others. Some projects are more time consuming, like the re-extension of the Bakerloo line to Watford Junction; it used to end at Harrow and Wealdstone.

One of the newest ways for travelers to take advantage of the London Underground, is called The Oyster Card, which is basically a prepaid card for all public London transportation, whether it’s the tram, the Underground, or the bus system. This is probably the most convenient of travel fund methods for travelers; having to keep track of multiple tickets and payment methods and prices can be a hassle. The Oyster Card is also cheaper to pay for than so many separate tickets; there’s a lot of encouragement to use the Oyster Card so there are significant prices differences in the usual rates for the transportation were it to be all paid for with separate tickets instead. More and more frequently increasing as well, are the number of routes on which passengers can pay as they go.

Information for travelers is available in the many different Underground stations found throughout the city, as well as online. Some helpful trips for traveling are to keep your travel information and tickets readily available, in your wallet or purse, so that you can check on important information at the last minute. Also be sure to bring a map of the route, know where your stops are, and at least have a cursory knowledge of the area. If you’re traveling with a family, be sure to bring snacks if it’s going to be a longer trip, but keeping an eye on your small children is very important, public transportation is dangerous in many ways to small children, with strangers, and a fast-paced atmosphere. Keep a close eye on any baggage or belongings as well.

Tipi campsite in the Welsh Mountains
Proud winners of a Welsh National Tourism award, Eco Retreats provide a refreshing alternative for those wishing to chill out and escape the hassle of modern life. Combining the modern comforts of a hotel with the thrill of being close to nature, the tipis are set deep in the beautiful surroundings of the Dyfi Valley.

1249: Italy for Mom’s Birthday, by Nancy924
Italy, 2007. February 22 thru March 1, Nancy a friend and Nancy’s mom head to Florence and March for a quick trip to celebrate Mom’s birthday.

1566: We Love Switzerland, by Kathryn J
Switzerland, 2008. Sightseeing and walking through Bernese Oberland and Central Switzerland 8/22/08 - 9/6/08, while taking full advantage of the Swiss trains.

Kenya History
Kenya history is full of changes and influences. Especially in the last century and in most recent developments as of 2008.