Monthly Archives: January 2012

Jan 31

Mali Basic Travel Information

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Article by BASEM AL-GHONEIMY

Mali Basic Travel Information:

Time: Local time is GMT.

Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. Plug types used are round pin attachment plugs.

Language: French is the official language, but Bambara is spoken by 80% of the population. Numerous other African languages are also spoken. Outside the bigger towns few people speak French, and hardly anyone speaks English.

Getting around: Main cities are connected by bus, and towns not connected by bus are serviced by taxi-brousse. During the rainy season passenger boats operate on the Niger River.

Health: All visitors are required to have a vaccination certificate for yellow fever. It is also recommended that precautions against hepatitis A, typhoid and meningitis (particularly if travelling between November and June) are taken. Malaria is a high risk in some areas. Cholera outbreaks are frequent. Diarrhoea is the most common complaint among travellers; bottled water is available and food should be thoroughly cooked. Medical facilities are limited, especially outside of Bamako, and basic medicines might not be available. Travellers are advised to bring a personal supply of medicines with them. Comprehensive medical insurance is essential; serious medical problems will require air evacuation outside of the country.

Tipping: Tipping is not required, but is an expression of respect as well as for rewarding good service. Tour guides usually receive between 3,000 to 5,000 CFA per day.

Safety: All travel to the regions north, east and west of Timbuktu, as well as travel along the borders with Niger, Algeria and Mauritania should be avoided due to armed banditry and the risk of kidnapping. Crime levels are low, but it is best not to show valuables in public.

Customs: Mali is a Muslim country and visitors should respect the local culture by dressing modestly (especially women) and asking people before taking their photographs. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture.

Business: French is the official language, and therefore the principal language of business in Mali. Business is conducted somewhat formally, but due to the heat, lightweight suits are worn for important meetings and more casual attire for regular meetings. One should use the French titles of Monsieur and Madame when meeting and greeting. Mali is principally a Muslim country and therefore Islamic customs should be respected. Women, in particular should dress conservatively. Business hours are usually from 7.30am to 4pm Monday to Thursday; 7.30am to 12.30pm and 2.30pm to 5.30pm on Fridays to allow for mosque.

Communications: The international dialling code for Mali is +223. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). City/area codes are not required. There are two mobile telephone operators. Outgoing international calls are made through an international operator. Internet cafes are common in Bamako, and a few are present in other towns.

Duty Free: There is free import of 1,000 cigarettes or 250 cigars or 2kg of tobacco, 2 bottles of alcohol, and perfume for personal use. Sporting guns are allowed as long as authorisation from the Customs Department in Bamako is acquired within 24 hours of arrival.

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Jan 30

Senegal Basic Travel Information

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Article by BASEM AL-GHONEIMY

Senegal Basic Travel Information:

Time: Local time is GMT.

Electricity: Electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two-pin attachment plugs are in use.

Language: The official language is French, but there are six other national languages spoken, including Wolof, which is the most widely used, as well as numerous other dialects.

Health: Stomach troubles are the most common complaint with visitors to Senegal, so travellers should watch what they eat and drink; do not drink untreated tap water. Malaria is prevalent throughout the country and prophylaxis is recommended for all travellers. A yellow fever vaccination is a requirement for entry to Senegal; other recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, polio, tetanus and typhoid. Outbreaks of meningococcal infections occur and vaccination is recommended for travel during the dry season (November to May). Outbreaks of cholera also occur. There is a risk of bilharzia, and visitors should avoid contact with stagnant, fresh water. Medical facilities are good in Dakar, but are limited in the rest of the country, and travellers should ensure they have comprehensive health insurance.

Tipping: Larger hotels and restaurants usually include a service charge of 10 to 15%. Taxi drivers are not usually tipped.

Safety: Most visits to Senegal are trouble-free, but street crime and pick-pocketing, especially in Dakar, are common. Visitors are advised to conceal valuables from the public eye. Travel by road in the Casamance region west of Kolda is unsafe due to the activities of separatist rebel groups, and should be avoided.

Customs: The majority of the population is Muslim and it is generally a conservative society where dress and behaviour should be modest, especially outside the main tourist areas. Acts of homosexuality are illegal. Greetings are important.

Business: In Senegal, it is expected of the visitor to dress formally. Greetings are very important in Senegal and the visitor must ensure that every member at the meeting is greeted and acknowledged at least once. The shaking of hands is the standard greeting for men and women in business. It is a good idea to be punctual even if the host is not. Meetings can often take longer than anticipated and patience may prove a virtue. Business is usually conducted in French and a translator may be needed, although many Senegalese businessmen will know some English. It is important to find out beforehand how the contacts are to be addressed. Business hours are generally 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday with an hour taken over lunch.

Communications: The international dialling code for Senegal is +221. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). No city/area codes are required. The telephone system is one of the most developed in Africa and there are numerous telephone centres for making both local and international calls. Two operators provide cell phone coverage. Cyber cafes offer Internet connections in the main cities.

Duty Free: Travellers to Senegal over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco or tobacco products; perfume for personal use; or gifts to the value of CFA 5,000. The import of spirits is not duty-free.

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Jan 24

Wanting To Take A Windy City Vacation? Check Out This Information On Ways To Score Nab Chicago Vacat

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Enjoy the Windy City

Chicago, Illinois is often called the Windy City. This destination attracts millions of visitors each year. There is a lot here to both do and to see. Chicago is a fine cosmopolitan location to explore. There are terrific attractions here to visit. One of the important decisions to make here is that of your accommodations. This location provides many different hotels to choose from. Every budget can be accommodated in Chicago. One of the fine luxury hotels in Chicago is the Hotel Allegro. This lodging can be found at 171 West Randolph Street. The hotel displays a fabulous art deco style. The Hard Rock Hotel is another popular selection in the city. This particular location helps to enhance Chicago vacations. Once you have secured you lodging, you can focus on local attractions. The Art Institute of Chicago is a thrilling attraction to explore.

Exploits in Chicago

Exploring the finds of Chicago is a wonderful way to spend your vacation. This city happens to be the third largest city in the country. Chicago vacations are wonderful trips to plan and to take. The more that you see of this destination, the more you will want to see of it. One of your first considerations will be that of your accommodations. There are terrific hotel selections in Chicago to choose from. One of these lodgings is the Hotel Allegro. This lodging is easily found at 171 West Randolph Street. There are 483 spacious rooms here. Another lodging here is situated on the north side of Chicago. This is the Courtyard by Marriott Chicago location. This hotel chain is associated with the best in amenities and customer service. Millions of tourists each year come here for vacation.

Chicago Getaways

Chicago vacations often provide tourists with great experiences. Couples often choose this destination for romantic getaways. The Windy City has long been associated with its vast attractions. There are fine accommodations throughout the city for tourists to choose from. Every type of trip and budget can be accommodated here. There are wonderful lodgings throughout the city. Downtown Chicago is definitely one of the gorgeous locations to choose for accommodations. One of the splendid lodgings is the Hotel Allegro at 171 West Randolph Street. This hotel has 483 spacious rooms for guests to choose from. The north side of Chicago is another popular place to find lodgings. One of these is the Courtyard by Marriott Chicago. This location is a part of the world famous Marriott hotel chain. A fantastic way to sample to romantic ambiance here is through local cuisine.

Exciting Restaurants

Planning Chicago vacations can be exciting and fun. One of your first decisions will be to find the right lodgings. There are budget friendly offerings, as well as, those that are luxurious. One of the budget friendly lodgings is the Ohio House Motel. This lodging is situated at 600 North La Salle Street. One of the luxurious accommodations is the Hotel Allegro, which is situated at 171 West Randolph Street. Once you have booked your lodging, you can focus on other offerings. There are a number of delectable restaurants in Chicago to choose from. Every taste can be accommodated here. Park Grill is a fine location to visit for a luscious meal. Another terrific restaurant to visit is Italian Village. This is an offering to go to for authentic Italian fare. One of the local favorites is Lou Mitchells. This location specializes in breakfast dishes. This fabulous restaurant is known for its pancakes.

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Jan 23

Things to Enjoy in Louisville, Kentucky

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Louisville has more than 120 attractions for the visitor as well as a very big wide welcome which will make you feel right at home! There is something to enjoy for visitors of all ages and tastes and many of the things you’ll find here are unique to Louisville and available nowhere else in the country or the world.

Louisville is steeped in history and you can explore the city’s origins as it was founded and established on the banks of the mighty Ohio River in spectacular countryside which spurred the development of horseracing and breeding – the Sport of Kings has been pursued here for generations and Louisville is home to the world famous Kentucky Derby. It is not just the horses which Louisville is famous for either, the Louisville Slugger, the baseball bat to have and use is made here and shipped around the world to baseball players of all standards.

London Royal Armouries has the only display outside of England right here in Louisville with comprehensive historical and educational displays of armor from knights of old, through to vintage muskets, swords, pikes and cuirasses. Staying with the bellicose theme, you can also enjoy the pugilistic displays and exhibits celebrating the life and achievements of Louisville’s most famous son, Muhammad Ali at the downtown center bearing his name. For a more comprehensive history of the town, surrounding area and beyond you should visit the Frazier international History Museum but take a day out for this as you will be quickly immersed in the culture and history across time and space.

Probably the most famous event Louisville is known for is of course, the Kentucky Derby which is held on the first Saturday in May; however, it is not just the weekend that is set aside for this world famous horse race but the entire fortnight preceding it! The Kentucky Derby Festival commences with America’s largest firework display known as the Thunder Over Louisville and continues in what has been described as “The Biggest Party in the South” with a marathon, the Steamboat Race, Pegasus Parade and around 70 different events held in this hectic two week period.

Louisville is also host to the largest Beatles celebration in the world with the Fab Four of Ringo, Paul, Jon and George providing the cause for five days of celebration known as the Abbey Road on the River and attended by tens of thousands each year around Memorial Day.

The summer season sees arts and culture competing with popular themes including the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival, also known as Shakespeare in the Round with plays in Louisville’s Central Park (not to be confused with the New York version) and come August there is the Kentucky State Fair held at the Kentucky Exposition Center in the city. With summer coming to an end, in September there is the Bluegrass Balloon Festival with hundreds of hot air balloons competing in racing events or just being put on show in evening balloon glows.

It doesn’t matter what time of year you choose to visit as there is always something going on but make sure you check in advance to get the most out of your trip.

By Lawrence Reaves – WebOrigination.com is a Louisville SEO Company and finds the country air of Louisville revitalizing. The SEO Company, BigOakInc.com, is a new partner with WebOrgination.com and together both companies are raising the level of SEO services in the industry.

Meet-Up With TonyDi on Capitol Hill - Kentucky Capitol Tour

Tuesday I had a wonderful meet-up with YouTube’s own TonyDi. He was very gracious to invite me to stop by his office at the Kentucky Capitol. He treated me to a wonderful Italian lunch and then gave me a personal tour of the Kentucky state capitol. TonyDi is a great guy and I really appreciated him taking time out of his busy day to visit with me. www.youtube.com
Video Rating: 4 / 5

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Jan 15

Corporate Travel Agency – Reliable Corporations Even For Modern Travel Plans

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Making use of a corporate travel agency might seem quaint but it is still relevant. Air travel can be especially difficult through certain time periods. In case you must hop on a plane before long, look at this option carefully.

Does anybody still utilize a corporate travel agency?

Certainly, several folks and businesses still use these businesses. You may have heard that these companies are now wiped out. The reality is that they are actually expanding. Many businesses establish working relations with these companies. They’re very well-known with contemporary business owners who’ve virtually no time to make their own journey arrangements.

Significant companies that send out personnel to numerous regional and global instruction training seminars still prefer this arrangement. Smaller businesses might also work with these businesses to find high quality seat prices.

The companies will also be trustworthy in making complete journey strategies.

Resort and vacation rentals concerns are their expertise. Give them a call today and they can offer you with an all-inclusive lodging array. It does not matter if you’re booking early or late. The travel businesses can find top quality prices for you almost all of the time.

Many also offer meeting administration solutions. This can be a trustworthy answer in case you’ll need a specialist work location to carry meetings. They are able to reserve conference rooms or business lounges in case of sudden conferences. The setup is also helpful whenever you need to travel from one place to the next.

Why decide on a corporate travel agency?

Human ingenuity and client service are leading reasons. Human ingenuity is unparalleled, even with the advent with the Net. If you experience a seating arrangement issue, for instance, a computer-based system won’t help out. This just cannot contact the airline and resolve the issue. The system can not make a deal. All it can likely do would be to examine your issue. The online travel firm might only offer reimbursement on your next flight.

Whilst this can be handy for some, it may possibly not often be correct for all. Imagine if a consumer requests for particular seats? You can’t simply shrug your shoulders and inform the consumer you’re remorseful. If this occurs, you’ll need somebody who can take action and fix the issue.

Customer service through this organization often comes in handy. Imagine the hassle of a trip postponement or cancellations, for instance. These events may be enough to drive people mad with hunger, tiredness, and disappointment.

When a provider is able to offer authentic client service, you as well as your colleagues’ get from this rut quicker. Businesses can contact flight companies promptly by means of dedicated staff. They are able to also organize for connecting flights sooner than expected.

What guidelines can I find out from these companies?

It depends on the circumstance. Let’s appear at a few samples. For instance, look at work schedules if you’re searching for discount business class airfare. Booking through the Yuletide season might be a problem. There are actually extremely few seats offered for the duration of this time of year. Expect higher prices as need is higher than supply. Reserve in advance in case you definitely need to take a trip (blank) Christmas or other tourist packed periods.

Yet another example in getting discount business class airfare is acquiring it for the duration of off peak seasons. Some nations or states experience a drop in tourism once classes start. Think about traveling for the duration of this time if attainable.

A reliable corporate travel agency is straightforward to find if you get personal references or utilize the Web. Inquire buddies for their suggestions and browse the web for attainable qualified prospects today.

Alisha Booth is known as a journey guide author who examined a corporate journey agency last month. The publisher is set to write much more articles on discount business class airfare.

For frequent flyer miles, each individual airline has specific rules, but in general participation is key. Discover how frequent flyer miles work with tips from a travel agent in this free video on traveling and vacations. Expert: Russ Handler Contact: www.rhconsumernetwork.com Bio: Russ Handler owns an online travel agency. Filmmaker: Christopher Rokosz


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