I am planning a holiday in January with my sons, aged 18 and 20. I would like to arrange a memorable holiday in Mauritius, as my sons want out of the traditional family holiday with mom. Where can we go where we can jointly and separately have fun at a reasonable price? - Ntokozo Mogorosi
It's hard to beat the packages offered by the big travel operators. Typically, they include airfare, accommodation and some meals, so you should check what your travel agent can offer. You can choose from affordable to super-luxury hotels and they generally represent value for money. If you really want to book yourself, your first issue is to find a reasonable airfare. You don't have to stay in a hotel, as there are some pretty nice guest houses that may give you the family intimacy for this important holiday. Check out the www.tropicscope.com website. You could consider renting a villa, but you are unlikely to get a booking for only four nights in January. Where you stay on the island is not that much of an issue, as taxis are freely available. However, if your sons want to be close to nightlife, the best areas are Grand Baie and Flic-en-Flac. Grand Baie has many popular nightclubs and bars, but the bars and late-night restaurants at Flic-en-Flac give tourists the best chance to mingle with local people. (15 July 2012)
Saturday, 14 July 2012
Transfers in Barcelona
Please could you find me a company providing return transfers between Barcelona airport and our hotel and then from the port back to the hotel. We are a group of 9 adults travelling in late September. - Milandré Allie
You can either join a shuttle bus transfer or hire your own private vehicle. One of the recommended firms offering transfers in Barcelona BCN Travel, charges 77 Euros for 9 passengers joining a shuttle bus transfer from the airport to the hotel. The same price is applicable for the transfer from the port to the airport. That works out at less than 9 Euros per transfer, which is good value. However, hiring you own 13-seater minibus would only cost you 89 Euros per transfer, just under 10 Euros per person. Get further details on www.bcn.travel or telephone +34 931 25 88 01. Another company offering a similar service is Barcelona Airport Transfers. I got an online quotation of 95 Euros for a transfer from the airport to a city hotel for 9 persons. The same rate was quoted for the journey from the port to the airport in a private vehicle (www.barcelona-airport-transfers.com). (15 July 2012)
You can either join a shuttle bus transfer or hire your own private vehicle. One of the recommended firms offering transfers in Barcelona BCN Travel, charges 77 Euros for 9 passengers joining a shuttle bus transfer from the airport to the hotel. The same price is applicable for the transfer from the port to the airport. That works out at less than 9 Euros per transfer, which is good value. However, hiring you own 13-seater minibus would only cost you 89 Euros per transfer, just under 10 Euros per person. Get further details on www.bcn.travel or telephone +34 931 25 88 01. Another company offering a similar service is Barcelona Airport Transfers. I got an online quotation of 95 Euros for a transfer from the airport to a city hotel for 9 persons. The same rate was quoted for the journey from the port to the airport in a private vehicle (www.barcelona-airport-transfers.com). (15 July 2012)
Hotel at KL Airport
Could you kindly suggest a good airport hotel in Kuala Lumpur - not too expensive but also not a tatty budget set-up. I would prefer one with a transfer included to and from the departure hall. - Linette Lintvelt
Your best choice is the Pan Pacific Kuala Lumpur International Airport Hotel, which is located alongside the main terminal building. There is a free 24-hour shuttle service to the hotel or you can take the five-minute walk via the skybridge. The hotel has all the facilities you would expect of a five-star hotel, with soundproofed rooms and a swimming pool. I did a test booking in September on www.booking.com and the rate for double room was R1218 plus six percent tax. A cheaper alternative is the three-star Concorde Inn Kuala Lumpur International Airport Hotel, which is located about two miles from the airport. There is a complimentary airport shuttle service. The rate for a double room including breakfast on www.booking.com was R550 plus 16 percent tax. The only other real option is the budget Tune Hotel, which is located at the low cost carrier terminal. This is a 15-minute drive from the international airport and the price of a room varies according to demand. There is a bus service between the two terminals. A test booking in September yielded a price of R327 including taxes per night for the basic room charge (www.tunehotels.com). Don't despair if you can't get into one of the airport hotels. You could catch the express train which gets you to Kuala Lumpur in 28 minutes and stay at one of the two luxury hotels in the terminus building there. A return trip on the express will cost you around R180. In the city terminal you can stay at the Hilton or the Le Meridien from around R1000 per double room (www.kl-hotels.com). (15 July 2012)
Your best choice is the Pan Pacific Kuala Lumpur International Airport Hotel, which is located alongside the main terminal building. There is a free 24-hour shuttle service to the hotel or you can take the five-minute walk via the skybridge. The hotel has all the facilities you would expect of a five-star hotel, with soundproofed rooms and a swimming pool. I did a test booking in September on www.booking.com and the rate for double room was R1218 plus six percent tax. A cheaper alternative is the three-star Concorde Inn Kuala Lumpur International Airport Hotel, which is located about two miles from the airport. There is a complimentary airport shuttle service. The rate for a double room including breakfast on www.booking.com was R550 plus 16 percent tax. The only other real option is the budget Tune Hotel, which is located at the low cost carrier terminal. This is a 15-minute drive from the international airport and the price of a room varies according to demand. There is a bus service between the two terminals. A test booking in September yielded a price of R327 including taxes per night for the basic room charge (www.tunehotels.com). Don't despair if you can't get into one of the airport hotels. You could catch the express train which gets you to Kuala Lumpur in 28 minutes and stay at one of the two luxury hotels in the terminus building there. A return trip on the express will cost you around R180. In the city terminal you can stay at the Hilton or the Le Meridien from around R1000 per double room (www.kl-hotels.com). (15 July 2012)
Amsterdam to London
While on holiday in Amsterdam in October, we are thinking of going to London for five days before returning to Amsterdam to catch our return flight. What is the cheapest means of travel to London? - Roja
Probably the most convenient way to travel between the two cities is by air - but only if you can find a cheap ticket. Although fares as low as 39 Euros are advertised by budget carriers, you should be able to get one for around 90 Euros return. Airlines flying this route include easyJet, British Airways, KLM and CityJet. Try www.skyscanner.net for low fares. There are two main options besides air travel. The first is by train. Catch the high-speed Thalys train from Amsterdam to Brussels and then the Eurostar to London. The journey can take as little as four hours 16 minutes. This compares very favourably to air travel, which takes around four hours if you take travelling time to and from the airports to the city centres into account. The fare between London and Amsterdam by Eurostar and Thalys high-speed train is offered from 123 Euros return (www.eurostar.com or www.nshispeed.nl).The second is take the overnight ferry. Take a train from Amsterdam to Hoek van Holland, then Stena Line's ferry to Harwich. From there you take the train to central London. You have to purchase cabins on the night ferry, but this saves you the cost of a hotel in London. The train/ferry fare can be as low as 97 Euros return, while the cabin costs 37 Euros per trip in a single cabin and 103 Euros for a five-bunk cabin. Cabins are optional on the day ferry, ranging from 18.50 Euros for a single and 53 Euros for a five-berth (www.dutchflyer.co.uk). You need to remember that you will have to get a visa to visit Britain. (8 July 2012)
Probably the most convenient way to travel between the two cities is by air - but only if you can find a cheap ticket. Although fares as low as 39 Euros are advertised by budget carriers, you should be able to get one for around 90 Euros return. Airlines flying this route include easyJet, British Airways, KLM and CityJet. Try www.skyscanner.net for low fares. There are two main options besides air travel. The first is by train. Catch the high-speed Thalys train from Amsterdam to Brussels and then the Eurostar to London. The journey can take as little as four hours 16 minutes. This compares very favourably to air travel, which takes around four hours if you take travelling time to and from the airports to the city centres into account. The fare between London and Amsterdam by Eurostar and Thalys high-speed train is offered from 123 Euros return (www.eurostar.com or www.nshispeed.nl).The second is take the overnight ferry. Take a train from Amsterdam to Hoek van Holland, then Stena Line's ferry to Harwich. From there you take the train to central London. You have to purchase cabins on the night ferry, but this saves you the cost of a hotel in London. The train/ferry fare can be as low as 97 Euros return, while the cabin costs 37 Euros per trip in a single cabin and 103 Euros for a five-bunk cabin. Cabins are optional on the day ferry, ranging from 18.50 Euros for a single and 53 Euros for a five-berth (www.dutchflyer.co.uk). You need to remember that you will have to get a visa to visit Britain. (8 July 2012)
A-Z of the Trans-Siberian Express
Which is the best time to consider a trip on the Trans-Siberian Express? - Saritha E. Solms
It may surprise many to discover there is no one train that can claim to be the “Trans-Siberian Express”. There is, though, a Trans-Siberian Railway – the lines along which a number of trains travel. The main route of the Trans-Siberian originates in Moscow and runs to Vladivostok via southern Siberia. However, many western travellers choose options that end in Beijing. These take the Trans-Mongolian or the Trans-Manchurian lines. One of the most luxurious trips is on the specially commisioned train named the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, which was launched in 2007. Whatever train you take, the weather considerations remain the same. Trains operate all-year round and most of them control the temperature on board. Both summer and winter trips have their supporters, but it would be wise not to travel in peak summer (June and July) or the middle of winter (December and January) when conditions are most fierce. When you are booking, you should consider "high class" (spalny in Russian) as you can stay in compartments for two. In "first class" (kupe) there will be four in each carriage. (8 July 2012)
It may surprise many to discover there is no one train that can claim to be the “Trans-Siberian Express”. There is, though, a Trans-Siberian Railway – the lines along which a number of trains travel. The main route of the Trans-Siberian originates in Moscow and runs to Vladivostok via southern Siberia. However, many western travellers choose options that end in Beijing. These take the Trans-Mongolian or the Trans-Manchurian lines. One of the most luxurious trips is on the specially commisioned train named the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express, which was launched in 2007. Whatever train you take, the weather considerations remain the same. Trains operate all-year round and most of them control the temperature on board. Both summer and winter trips have their supporters, but it would be wise not to travel in peak summer (June and July) or the middle of winter (December and January) when conditions are most fierce. When you are booking, you should consider "high class" (spalny in Russian) as you can stay in compartments for two. In "first class" (kupe) there will be four in each carriage. (8 July 2012)
Bus from Athens Airport to Piraeus
What is the easiest way to get from Athens Airport to Piraeus port - taxi, metro or bus? I need to make the transfer within three hours. - John Blementhal
Your best bet is the metro. It is modern, clean and efficient and you won't have to worry about the chaotic Athens traffic. From Athens Airport take line 3 (blue) to Monastiraki station. This should take about 45 minutes. At Monastiraki station you change to line 1 (green). This will take you directly to Piraeus port in around 20 minutes. The trip costs 8 Euros for one person and 14 Euros for two. Don't worry about the mid-trip change, it really is very simple and there is plenty of space for luggage. The bus service is cheaper, but can get caught up in traffic. Take the express bus X96 at the airports arrivals level (between doors 4 and 5). It will drop you at Karaiskaki Square in Piraeus, just outside the ferry harbour. The fare is 3.20 Euros and it should take about 75 minutes in normal traffic. The cost of a private taxi from airport to port ranges from 47-63 Euros depending on time of day. There is often a long queue of people, so it is best to book and pay for one online so that it is waiting for you on arrival. (www.taxireservations.gr or www.greecetaxi.gr). (8 July 2012)
Your best bet is the metro. It is modern, clean and efficient and you won't have to worry about the chaotic Athens traffic. From Athens Airport take line 3 (blue) to Monastiraki station. This should take about 45 minutes. At Monastiraki station you change to line 1 (green). This will take you directly to Piraeus port in around 20 minutes. The trip costs 8 Euros for one person and 14 Euros for two. Don't worry about the mid-trip change, it really is very simple and there is plenty of space for luggage. The bus service is cheaper, but can get caught up in traffic. Take the express bus X96 at the airports arrivals level (between doors 4 and 5). It will drop you at Karaiskaki Square in Piraeus, just outside the ferry harbour. The fare is 3.20 Euros and it should take about 75 minutes in normal traffic. The cost of a private taxi from airport to port ranges from 47-63 Euros depending on time of day. There is often a long queue of people, so it is best to book and pay for one online so that it is waiting for you on arrival. (www.taxireservations.gr or www.greecetaxi.gr). (8 July 2012)
Sleep in a Lighthouse
I am interested in staying in one of the lighthouses on the coast. Where can I find out more about them and make reservations? - Lilian Ginsberg
Accommodation is available at five of South Africa's lighthouses. There are three in the Western Cape. Choose from the Cape Columbine Lighthouse near Paternoster. the Cape St Blaize Lighthouse at Mossel Bay and the Danger Point Lighthouse near the fishing village of Gansbaai. The other lighthouses offering self-catering accommodation are the Great Fish Point Lighthouse near Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape and the North Sand Bluff Lighthouse near Port Edward in KwaZulu Natal. For more information on visiting or staying in a lighthouse, contact the SA Lighthouse Adventure Tour Operations (SALATO) on Tel: +27 21 449 4729 or 083 284 6470. For details on tours, check out The Lighthouse Company (www.lighthouses.co.za). (1 July 2012)
Accommodation is available at five of South Africa's lighthouses. There are three in the Western Cape. Choose from the Cape Columbine Lighthouse near Paternoster. the Cape St Blaize Lighthouse at Mossel Bay and the Danger Point Lighthouse near the fishing village of Gansbaai. The other lighthouses offering self-catering accommodation are the Great Fish Point Lighthouse near Port Alfred in the Eastern Cape and the North Sand Bluff Lighthouse near Port Edward in KwaZulu Natal. For more information on visiting or staying in a lighthouse, contact the SA Lighthouse Adventure Tour Operations (SALATO) on Tel: +27 21 449 4729 or 083 284 6470. For details on tours, check out The Lighthouse Company (www.lighthouses.co.za). (1 July 2012)
Watch out for 'Resort Fees"
While booking a hotel in Miami I was shocked to discover that there was a mandatory "resort fee" of 10 dollars per night. Apparently, this covered the use of pool loungers and towels, the gym and internet access. Surely this should be included in the room charge? Could I refuse to pay? - Roelene Gordon
Resort fees have become a controversial issue in the United States and have now become a widespread practice in many cities. The hotels claim that the fee covers use of gym and pool facilities, business centres and other alleged perks. The fee is mandatory and all guests are forced to pay up, whether they used the facilities or not. In Las Vegas, many of the big hotels charge an average resort fee of 25 US dollars a night. Consider yourself lucky that you found out about this fee in advance. Many people only discover it on their bill when checking out and it is not included in room rate quotes or the rates charged by booking agencies. You pay when you check out. I agree with travelers that the charge is outrageous. Yet, it seems there is little you can do about it. If you were not informed of it in advance, you could dispute the charge with your credit card company. However, the practice is becoming so widespread that it will become less easy to fight. For example, I checked five popular hotels in Las Vegas and they all enforced a 25 US dollar resort fee per night. They were the MGM Grand, the Mandalay Bay, Treasure Island, the Venetian and the Mirage. Some of the alleged perks were access to nightclubs and prior booking facilities for restaurants and shows, but you cannot refuse to pay. Other areas where hotels are charging this fee are in Hawaii, Atlantic city, the Bahamas, Texas and the Niagara Falls. Alarmingly, the first hotels in New York City are levying this fee and it is also being enforced at Rio's top hotel, the Copacabana Palace. I have not heard of it popping up in South Africa yet. It seems the only way you can fight it where you find it is to choose a hotel that doesn't charge the fee and reward it with your booking. Among the hotels bucking the trend in the Vegas are Caesars Palace, the Golden Nugget, Rio, Ballys and the Four Seasons. (1 July 2012)
Resort fees have become a controversial issue in the United States and have now become a widespread practice in many cities. The hotels claim that the fee covers use of gym and pool facilities, business centres and other alleged perks. The fee is mandatory and all guests are forced to pay up, whether they used the facilities or not. In Las Vegas, many of the big hotels charge an average resort fee of 25 US dollars a night. Consider yourself lucky that you found out about this fee in advance. Many people only discover it on their bill when checking out and it is not included in room rate quotes or the rates charged by booking agencies. You pay when you check out. I agree with travelers that the charge is outrageous. Yet, it seems there is little you can do about it. If you were not informed of it in advance, you could dispute the charge with your credit card company. However, the practice is becoming so widespread that it will become less easy to fight. For example, I checked five popular hotels in Las Vegas and they all enforced a 25 US dollar resort fee per night. They were the MGM Grand, the Mandalay Bay, Treasure Island, the Venetian and the Mirage. Some of the alleged perks were access to nightclubs and prior booking facilities for restaurants and shows, but you cannot refuse to pay. Other areas where hotels are charging this fee are in Hawaii, Atlantic city, the Bahamas, Texas and the Niagara Falls. Alarmingly, the first hotels in New York City are levying this fee and it is also being enforced at Rio's top hotel, the Copacabana Palace. I have not heard of it popping up in South Africa yet. It seems the only way you can fight it where you find it is to choose a hotel that doesn't charge the fee and reward it with your booking. Among the hotels bucking the trend in the Vegas are Caesars Palace, the Golden Nugget, Rio, Ballys and the Four Seasons. (1 July 2012)
Athens on Foot
I am going to Athens to attend a conference from 11-13 July. From 14-15 I will be free to explore the sites of Athens. Can you suggest any tours I can cover on foot? - Alethea de Villiers
One of the best options for you would be to join one of the organised walking tours of the city. A company called Athens Walking Tours has set up a number of excellent guided tours, with small groups escorted by trained university student. Ranging from three-hour tours to full day itineraries, they cover the Acropolis, Agrippa monument, Dionysus Sanctuary, Zeus Temple. Hadrian's Arch, the Parthenon and Nike Temple. You can choose to watch the Changing of the Guard at the House of Parliament, enjoy a meal on the colourful Plaka and tour the National Gardens.There are also some speciality tours such as an Athens Food Tour, where the tour ends with lunch or dinner. Costs start at 36 Euros per person and you will be liable for entrance fees where applicable. Check out the tours on www.athenswalkingtours.gr. There is another company offering more exclusive walking tours. They are more expensive, with an average price of around 70 Euros, but groups are restricted to six people and they have very interesting itineraries. Find out more on www.contexttravel.com. Finally, you can also take a free walking tour which covers most of the major attractions (www.athensfreewalkingtours.com). However, dates and times vary, depending on demand. In priniciple you do not have pay for tickets to join the tour, but guides do expect to be tipped for their services. (1 July 2012)
One of the best options for you would be to join one of the organised walking tours of the city. A company called Athens Walking Tours has set up a number of excellent guided tours, with small groups escorted by trained university student. Ranging from three-hour tours to full day itineraries, they cover the Acropolis, Agrippa monument, Dionysus Sanctuary, Zeus Temple. Hadrian's Arch, the Parthenon and Nike Temple. You can choose to watch the Changing of the Guard at the House of Parliament, enjoy a meal on the colourful Plaka and tour the National Gardens.There are also some speciality tours such as an Athens Food Tour, where the tour ends with lunch or dinner. Costs start at 36 Euros per person and you will be liable for entrance fees where applicable. Check out the tours on www.athenswalkingtours.gr. There is another company offering more exclusive walking tours. They are more expensive, with an average price of around 70 Euros, but groups are restricted to six people and they have very interesting itineraries. Find out more on www.contexttravel.com. Finally, you can also take a free walking tour which covers most of the major attractions (www.athensfreewalkingtours.com). However, dates and times vary, depending on demand. In priniciple you do not have pay for tickets to join the tour, but guides do expect to be tipped for their services. (1 July 2012)
Best Afternoon Teas in London
While I am in London in October my wife and I want to stretch our budget by using traditional afternoon teas to enjoy some of the top hotels in the city. Which are the "in" spots these days? Could you make some recommendations? - Roger Dreyer
Practically all the top London hotels offer a traditional afternoon tea, as there has been a resurgence in this delightful custom. Among those that excel are the Connaught, the Ritz, the Royal Horseguards, the Dorchester, and Brown's. One that has an added cachet these days is the Goring, the hotel that Kate Middleton's family booked out for last year's royal wedding. And you can always check out the Tea Guild's list of award winners for ideas of where to go. This year's top spot went to the Anthenaeum's honey tea, which uses the best honey gathered from the bees of London parks. Expect sandwiches, scones, crumpets cakes and a glass of honey fizz. And you'll get your choice of tea, of course (£39. www.athenaeumhotel.com). If you want to see and be seen, head to the Savoy Hotel on the Strand to enjoy tea in the Thames-side foyer. Everyone's been flocking to this renovated gem, so why not enjoy prime googgle time as you enjoy the finest in traditional afternoon fare, with the added option of a glass of champagne (£40, www.fairmont.com). If you are really serious about tea, your choice should be the Lanesborough. Besides it's prime location a pearl's throw from Buckingham Palace, this five-star hotel has a tea sommelier on hand to advise guests on which blend will suit them. Nibble the pastries in elegant Apsleys Restaurant and pretend you've been coming here for years (£35; www.lanesborough.com). Of course, there's no reason why you should stick to the very traditional teas. There are some wonderfully quirky otpions that are drawing the cream of society. For one, there's the Mad Hatter's Tea at the wonderful Sanderson Hotel in Fitzrovia. You start off with a potion in a bottle which reads "Drink Me" and enjoy your choice of items like brightly-coloured sandwiches and blueberry lollipops (£35; www.sandersonlondon.com) Then there's the fashionista's favourite, the Pret-A-Portea at the Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge. The pastry chefs copy items from the each season's London Fashion Week to create some divine treats (£39; www.the-berkeley.co.uk) Another fun offering is the Chocolate Tea at the Halkin Hotel (£37.50; www.halkin.como.bz). (1 July 2012)
Practically all the top London hotels offer a traditional afternoon tea, as there has been a resurgence in this delightful custom. Among those that excel are the Connaught, the Ritz, the Royal Horseguards, the Dorchester, and Brown's. One that has an added cachet these days is the Goring, the hotel that Kate Middleton's family booked out for last year's royal wedding. And you can always check out the Tea Guild's list of award winners for ideas of where to go. This year's top spot went to the Anthenaeum's honey tea, which uses the best honey gathered from the bees of London parks. Expect sandwiches, scones, crumpets cakes and a glass of honey fizz. And you'll get your choice of tea, of course (£39. www.athenaeumhotel.com). If you want to see and be seen, head to the Savoy Hotel on the Strand to enjoy tea in the Thames-side foyer. Everyone's been flocking to this renovated gem, so why not enjoy prime googgle time as you enjoy the finest in traditional afternoon fare, with the added option of a glass of champagne (£40, www.fairmont.com). If you are really serious about tea, your choice should be the Lanesborough. Besides it's prime location a pearl's throw from Buckingham Palace, this five-star hotel has a tea sommelier on hand to advise guests on which blend will suit them. Nibble the pastries in elegant Apsleys Restaurant and pretend you've been coming here for years (£35; www.lanesborough.com). Of course, there's no reason why you should stick to the very traditional teas. There are some wonderfully quirky otpions that are drawing the cream of society. For one, there's the Mad Hatter's Tea at the wonderful Sanderson Hotel in Fitzrovia. You start off with a potion in a bottle which reads "Drink Me" and enjoy your choice of items like brightly-coloured sandwiches and blueberry lollipops (£35; www.sandersonlondon.com) Then there's the fashionista's favourite, the Pret-A-Portea at the Berkeley Hotel in Knightsbridge. The pastry chefs copy items from the each season's London Fashion Week to create some divine treats (£39; www.the-berkeley.co.uk) Another fun offering is the Chocolate Tea at the Halkin Hotel (£37.50; www.halkin.como.bz). (1 July 2012)
Elephant-back safari at Vic Falls
I would love to go on an elephant-back safari when I visit the Victoria Falls later this year. Could you supply me with contact information and an idea of what it might cost? - Samantha Lelenne
On the Zimbabwean side, the Wild Horizons Trust manages a herd of orphaned elephants at Elephant Camp. Trek along the edge of the Zambezi gorges or the grasslands of the Victoria Falls National Park. Get further details on www.wildhorizons.co.za or telephone +263 (13) - 44571. On the Zambian side, elephant-back safari trails begin at Thorntree Lodge in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. This is operated by Zambezi Elephant Trails You can get further information on www.victoriafalls.net and www.thorntreelodge.net. Prices differ according to your exact package, but you can expect to pay around 130 US dollars (R1200) per person. (24 June 2012)
On the Zimbabwean side, the Wild Horizons Trust manages a herd of orphaned elephants at Elephant Camp. Trek along the edge of the Zambezi gorges or the grasslands of the Victoria Falls National Park. Get further details on www.wildhorizons.co.za or telephone +263 (13) - 44571. On the Zambian side, elephant-back safari trails begin at Thorntree Lodge in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. This is operated by Zambezi Elephant Trails You can get further information on www.victoriafalls.net and www.thorntreelodge.net. Prices differ according to your exact package, but you can expect to pay around 130 US dollars (R1200) per person. (24 June 2012)
Doing the Camino Walk
We are planning to do the Camino walk – the Camino Frances – and we hope to walk from St jean Pied de Port to Santiago de Lugo Compostela in four weeks. However, we can’t seem to find information on how to get to St jean Pied de Port. Assuming we fly to Madrid, what is the best way of getting to St jean Pied de Port? Also, how do we get from Santiago de Lugo Compostela to Madrid to catch a flight back? - Gugu Nyanda
The first step of your journey is to get from Madrid to Pamplona by flight, bus or train. The distance between the two cities is just over 400kms and the bus takes 4-5 hours. The bus fare from Madrid to Pamplona should be around 30 Euros (check http://www.autobusesdenavarra.com/siv/internet/busquedas.jsp) Many people chose to go by bus, as it takes you directly to the bus station in Pamplona, where you catch another bus to Roncesvalles. These buses only run until 6pm during the week and 4pm on Saturdays. There is no service on Sundays. From Roncesvalles you catch a taxi to St Jean. Sharing the taxi with other travelers should bring the cost down to around 25 Euros per person. To get back from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid you can also choose between flying, taking the bus or the train. The bus service takes about eight hours and costs 60 euros. (24 June 2012)
The first step of your journey is to get from Madrid to Pamplona by flight, bus or train. The distance between the two cities is just over 400kms and the bus takes 4-5 hours. The bus fare from Madrid to Pamplona should be around 30 Euros (check http://www.autobusesdenavarra.com/siv/internet/busquedas.jsp) Many people chose to go by bus, as it takes you directly to the bus station in Pamplona, where you catch another bus to Roncesvalles. These buses only run until 6pm during the week and 4pm on Saturdays. There is no service on Sundays. From Roncesvalles you catch a taxi to St Jean. Sharing the taxi with other travelers should bring the cost down to around 25 Euros per person. To get back from Santiago de Compostela to Madrid you can also choose between flying, taking the bus or the train. The bus service takes about eight hours and costs 60 euros. (24 June 2012)
Cutting Costs in Malawi
A life-long dream is to visit Lake Malawi. Looking at the official Malawi Tourism website, I find the prices for flights and accommodation quite steep. Do you have any suggestions ? - Willie van der Schyff
While it is true that a holiday in Malawi can cost as much as one on a tropical island, it is one of Africa's most unique destinations. Thompsons is offering a seven-night stay at the three-star Makokola Retreat for R13,500 person sharing including taxes. The package is all-inclusive, which means that besides the flight from Johannesburg to Lilongwe, hotel transfers and seven nights accommodation, you also get three meals a day and free drinks (including local alcohol). You will also get free non-motorised watersports. The resort is located north of Mangochi, on the southern shores of Lake Malawi (www.thompsons.co.za). That may seem expensive, but the resort usually charges $184-$292 (R1,500-R2,300) per person per day for full board. You could get the cost down by making your own bookings and choosing a cheaper resort. I checked flights and the average price of a return ticket from Johannesburg to Lilongwe on SAA cost around R5500 including taxes. You could find a comfortable hotel from R350-R650 per night, bringing the package cost down substantially. One of the cost-effective resorts at the lake is Nkopola Lodge (R647 per person). You could opt for one of the chalets or rooms at the Gecko Lounge at Cape Maclear. These are priced from only R459 per room per night. A rustic choice would be the Safari Cottage in Nkhata Bay (R539 per cottage). In the Liwonde National Park you can stay at Hippo View Lodge (R350 per person). All these discounted rates are on offer on www.malawi-direct.com.(24 June 2012)
While it is true that a holiday in Malawi can cost as much as one on a tropical island, it is one of Africa's most unique destinations. Thompsons is offering a seven-night stay at the three-star Makokola Retreat for R13,500 person sharing including taxes. The package is all-inclusive, which means that besides the flight from Johannesburg to Lilongwe, hotel transfers and seven nights accommodation, you also get three meals a day and free drinks (including local alcohol). You will also get free non-motorised watersports. The resort is located north of Mangochi, on the southern shores of Lake Malawi (www.thompsons.co.za). That may seem expensive, but the resort usually charges $184-$292 (R1,500-R2,300) per person per day for full board. You could get the cost down by making your own bookings and choosing a cheaper resort. I checked flights and the average price of a return ticket from Johannesburg to Lilongwe on SAA cost around R5500 including taxes. You could find a comfortable hotel from R350-R650 per night, bringing the package cost down substantially. One of the cost-effective resorts at the lake is Nkopola Lodge (R647 per person). You could opt for one of the chalets or rooms at the Gecko Lounge at Cape Maclear. These are priced from only R459 per room per night. A rustic choice would be the Safari Cottage in Nkhata Bay (R539 per cottage). In the Liwonde National Park you can stay at Hippo View Lodge (R350 per person). All these discounted rates are on offer on www.malawi-direct.com.(24 June 2012)
Cheap Hostels in Singapore
My boyfriend and I are looking for a cheap, clean hostel in Singapore. Bunk beds in shared dorms are fine. Can you help? - Stacey King
There are plenty of hostels to choose from and, being Singapore, there are some trendy ones that take bunk living to a new level. You can check out what's available on www.hostelbookers.com and www.hostelworld.com, but here are some of the best. A boutique-style newcomer is the Bunc Hostel, located in Little India. Selling points are the custom-made roomy bunk beds with cozy duvets and facilities like an outdoor tanning deck. Bunks range from 31-39 US dollars per night, and there are also two-sleeper rooms with private bathroom for 70 US dollars per person (www.bunchostel.com). Experience flashpacker style at Wink Hostel, which targets trendy travellers with pod beds, designer lighting and speedy wifi. Housed in a three-storey historic shophouse in Chinatown, it is two minutes from a Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) station and close to the Clarke Quay nightlife area. Get a bed from 39 US dollars per night (www.winkhostel.com). You can also try Matchbox The Concept Hostel, which offers pod-style bed cabins and designer touches. Bed rates start at 39 US dollars (www.matchbox.sg). A fun place to stay is A Beary Good Hostel in Pagoda Street. It's one of three "beary hostels" offering free breakfast, wifi and local phone calls. This one is only a few steps from the Chinatown train station and close to many attractions. Bunk beds are available for US$25 (ww.abearygoodhostel.com). Fernloft Little India is the flagship branch of the Fernloft Group. Located in the heart of the Indian community, with great restaurants and shops, the hostel offers bunks from 15-25 US dollars (www.fernloft.com). (24 June 2012)
There are plenty of hostels to choose from and, being Singapore, there are some trendy ones that take bunk living to a new level. You can check out what's available on www.hostelbookers.com and www.hostelworld.com, but here are some of the best. A boutique-style newcomer is the Bunc Hostel, located in Little India. Selling points are the custom-made roomy bunk beds with cozy duvets and facilities like an outdoor tanning deck. Bunks range from 31-39 US dollars per night, and there are also two-sleeper rooms with private bathroom for 70 US dollars per person (www.bunchostel.com). Experience flashpacker style at Wink Hostel, which targets trendy travellers with pod beds, designer lighting and speedy wifi. Housed in a three-storey historic shophouse in Chinatown, it is two minutes from a Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) station and close to the Clarke Quay nightlife area. Get a bed from 39 US dollars per night (www.winkhostel.com). You can also try Matchbox The Concept Hostel, which offers pod-style bed cabins and designer touches. Bed rates start at 39 US dollars (www.matchbox.sg). A fun place to stay is A Beary Good Hostel in Pagoda Street. It's one of three "beary hostels" offering free breakfast, wifi and local phone calls. This one is only a few steps from the Chinatown train station and close to many attractions. Bunk beds are available for US$25 (ww.abearygoodhostel.com). Fernloft Little India is the flagship branch of the Fernloft Group. Located in the heart of the Indian community, with great restaurants and shops, the hostel offers bunks from 15-25 US dollars (www.fernloft.com). (24 June 2012)
Visa For India
We plan to go to India in November and would like to know the best way to obtain Indian visas. We are travelling on South African passports. - Rosemarie Innes
The good news is that visas for India are free of charge for South African passport holders. There may be processing charges if you use a travel agent or commercial visa company to get your visa, but you can do it for free yourself by going directly to one of the Indian Consulates. The office in Johannesburg is located at 1 Eton Road (Corner Jan Smuts Avenue and Eton Road) Parktown, Johannesburg (tel: 011 581 9800-99980). THe Durban office is at 1 Kingsmead Boulevard (2nd Floor), Kingsmead Office Park, Durban (tel: 031-335 0300). You need to submit a completed application form, available from the consulate, along with a passport valid for at least six months, copy of your ID document, two passport-sized colour photographs, a copy of your airline ticket and itinerary and proof of accommodation in India (such as a hotel booking). Applicants are advised to file the application in person, but they can send it by mail, preferably by courier. It normally takes 2-3 working days to process an application. For further information, check out the www.indiainsouthafrica.com website. (17 June 2012)
The good news is that visas for India are free of charge for South African passport holders. There may be processing charges if you use a travel agent or commercial visa company to get your visa, but you can do it for free yourself by going directly to one of the Indian Consulates. The office in Johannesburg is located at 1 Eton Road (Corner Jan Smuts Avenue and Eton Road) Parktown, Johannesburg (tel: 011 581 9800-99980). THe Durban office is at 1 Kingsmead Boulevard (2nd Floor), Kingsmead Office Park, Durban (tel: 031-335 0300). You need to submit a completed application form, available from the consulate, along with a passport valid for at least six months, copy of your ID document, two passport-sized colour photographs, a copy of your airline ticket and itinerary and proof of accommodation in India (such as a hotel booking). Applicants are advised to file the application in person, but they can send it by mail, preferably by courier. It normally takes 2-3 working days to process an application. For further information, check out the www.indiainsouthafrica.com website. (17 June 2012)
What To Do in Dubai
I’m travelling to Europe in early October and am considering stopping over in Dubai for a day or two. Other than visiting souks and experiencing a desert dinner, do you have any other recommendations for a short stay? - Genevieve Millar
Dubai is a more diverse and sophisticated tourism destination than it is often given credit for and there is little you can't do here! But if you only have two or three days, you'll want to choose some things that are unique to this exciting metropolis. Firstly, it is a great beach destination. Built along 40kms of coastline, there are plenty of swimming beaches as well as watersports. One of the best spots for people watching is one of the many pavement cafes on the Jumeirah Beach Walk in the Dubai Marina. Keep an eye out for some of the extravagant cars that will glide past, like gold-plated Rolls Royces and two-tone Ferraris. You can't ignore the buildings going up everywhere - the one worth visiting is the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest structure on the planet right now. Get a view of the city from the observation deck on the 134th floor. There's no shortage of malls. The one you shouldn't miss is the Dubai Mall, which has an indoor theme park, a giant aquarium with underwater zoo and an ice-rink. For indoor ice ski-ing, you'll have to head for the Mall of the Emirates. If you have time, you can pop into Sol Kerzner's palace and waterpark named Atlantis. Treat yourself to a dolphin ride if that floats your boat. Or you can check out the city's most expensive hotel, the iconic Burj Al Arab. If you want to dine in the underwater seafood restaurant or have high tea or cocktails in the Skyview Bar, you will need to book at least a week in advance. If desert dining doesn't rattle your cage, you can still experience the desert by renting a 4x4 for a desert drive. You’ll be bathing in the natural rock pools of Hatta in under an hour or splashing around at Wadi Wurrayah, home of the UAE's only natural waterfall. If you still have time on your hands, you can watch camel racing, visit the Al Ain Oasis or marvel at the 40,000-capacity Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the only mosque in the UAE open to non-Muslims. (17 June 2012)
Dubai is a more diverse and sophisticated tourism destination than it is often given credit for and there is little you can't do here! But if you only have two or three days, you'll want to choose some things that are unique to this exciting metropolis. Firstly, it is a great beach destination. Built along 40kms of coastline, there are plenty of swimming beaches as well as watersports. One of the best spots for people watching is one of the many pavement cafes on the Jumeirah Beach Walk in the Dubai Marina. Keep an eye out for some of the extravagant cars that will glide past, like gold-plated Rolls Royces and two-tone Ferraris. You can't ignore the buildings going up everywhere - the one worth visiting is the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest structure on the planet right now. Get a view of the city from the observation deck on the 134th floor. There's no shortage of malls. The one you shouldn't miss is the Dubai Mall, which has an indoor theme park, a giant aquarium with underwater zoo and an ice-rink. For indoor ice ski-ing, you'll have to head for the Mall of the Emirates. If you have time, you can pop into Sol Kerzner's palace and waterpark named Atlantis. Treat yourself to a dolphin ride if that floats your boat. Or you can check out the city's most expensive hotel, the iconic Burj Al Arab. If you want to dine in the underwater seafood restaurant or have high tea or cocktails in the Skyview Bar, you will need to book at least a week in advance. If desert dining doesn't rattle your cage, you can still experience the desert by renting a 4x4 for a desert drive. You’ll be bathing in the natural rock pools of Hatta in under an hour or splashing around at Wadi Wurrayah, home of the UAE's only natural waterfall. If you still have time on your hands, you can watch camel racing, visit the Al Ain Oasis or marvel at the 40,000-capacity Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the only mosque in the UAE open to non-Muslims. (17 June 2012)
Car-free Islands
We recently spent time on Rottnest Island in Australia. We loved the fact that no cars were allowed on the island, ensuring a laid-back vibe. Can you suggest similar car-free tourist destinations we could visit, especially islands? - Miranda Els
There are a number of vehicle-free islands around the globe, the closest to South Africa being Lamu Island in Kenya. This preserved Swahili island settlement has become a glamorous holiday resort. There are no roads, so people move around by foot or boat, and donkeys are used to transport goods. A little futher away is the island of La Digue in Seychelles, where people get around by bicycle or ox-cart. On the Greek Islands, motorised transport is banned in beautiful Hydra. The main port town is big enough to stroll around and you can catch a boat to the rest of the island. In Asia, the best-known car-free destination is probably Ko Phi Phi, which lies off the coast of Phuket in Thailand. There are no vehicles and transport is by foot. Goods are transported by bicycle. In Malaysia, the Perhentian Islands provide great diving destinations without any motorised transport. The same goes for the Gili Islands in Indonesia. You can rent bicycles to get around when you are not diving or relaxing in one of the many beachfront cafes. In Hong Kong, you can visit Cheung Chau Island for a car-free environment, while Galangyi island near Xiamen in China even bicycles are banned. Other car-free destinations around the globe include Little Corn Island in Nicaragua, Kadavu island in Fiji, Caye Caulker in Belize and Paquetá Island off Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Options in the United States inlcuded Monhegan Island in Maine, Governor's Island in New York, Catalina Island near Los Angeles and Tangier Island in Chesapeake Bay, Virginia. Finally, there is the most famous car-free destination of all, Venice. Besides the bus station square, transport around this amazing Italian city is by foot or by water taxi. (17 June 2012)
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