Everywhere you turn you’ll find a gorgeous church, fascinating museum, quaint piazza, or charming restaurant. The city of Florence was first discovered by well-off travelers during the 1700’s and has been a hot spot for tourists and visitors ever since.

When to Visit Florence

There really isn’t a terribly bad time of year to visit Florence. The weather is similar to those in most other coastal towns in the Northern Hemisphere. If you’d like to avoid stifling hot weather or the freezing cold than you should stick to the Spring and Fall months. Otherwise, you will have no problems finding things to do in Florence year round.

Transportation throughout Florence

First of all, forget traveling throughout Florence by car. The city is full of one-way streets that only regular residents find easy to navigate. Even if you can find your way from place to place you will have a very difficult time finding a place to park. To make things even more confusing, many of the streets in the center of the city are off limits to non-residents without a special driving permit. There are traffic cameras throughout the city and they will catch your license plate and mail you a ticket. Imagine being home from Italy for three months and finding a traffic ticket in the mail!

The city of Florence isn’t astoundingly large so your best bet is to simply explore by foot. Once you find your way to the center of the city you’ll have no problem finding any other attraction you wish to visit.  Most of the main shopping districts, monuments, and museums are within blocks of each other.

In the evening, especially if you plan to go out to dine after dark, you may want to ask for a taxi or see if your hotel in Florence offers some sort of shuttle service.

The only time we recommend driving yourself is if you plan to venture out of Florence to see Tuscany. If this is the case, make sure your rental car has a great GPS system so that you don’t have to worry as much about reading signs, especially if you aren’t fluent in reading Italian.

Finding Florence Tourist Offices

The tourist offices in Florence are commonly referred to as APT. There are two main locations. The first is within the main train station next to the Palazzo Medici-Riccardi. The second is near the Basilica di Santa Croce. The tourist offices are open from 9am until 7pm and the staff will give you any directions you ask for. Maps, on the other hand, are not free – you’ll have to pay if you feel you need one.

Health and Safety in Florence

Florence is one of the safest cities in Italy, with very low instances of violent crime. Most people who visit the city feel safe traveling at any time of the day though that doesn’t mean you should let common sense fly out the window if you are traveling alone at night. Make sure you stick to well-lit, populated areas and you are very unlikely to have a problem.

Try to avoid the train stations, the Santa Maria Novella, and the Santa Croce areas at night. These are the areas in which you’re most likely to run into questionable individuals or rowdy youth groups. Places like the Piazza della Republica and Ponte Vecchio are great places to visit during the evening hours as they are often full of laughing dancing, singing, and music.

Tipping Etiquette & Payments in Florence

Most restaurants in Florence will include the coperto, or service fee, in your bill. The fee will usually range between 1 and 3 Euros depending on the restaurant you visit. You can add up to 10 Euros in addition to that if you feel as though the wait staff gave you exceptional service. Tipping cab drivers and hotel porters isn’t necessary but is always appreciated, especially if you were given great service or assistance.

Always take a receipt for your purchase from any shop you visit in Florence. A plain clothes police officer may stop you at any time and ask to see proof of payment. They do so to verify not only that you paid for the items at hand but to ensure that the store owner rang it up properly (for tax purposes).

Helpful Italian Phrases

While not necessarily mandatory, it is always helpful to learn at least a few phrases in the local dialect before visiting any foreign country. Here are a few to get you started on your path to Florence:

• Parla Inglese? (Do you speak English?)
• Grazie (Thank you)
• Per Favore or Per Piacere  (Please)
• Ciao (Hello or Goodbye)
• Arrivederci (Goodbye)
• Dov’e…? (Where is…?)
• Gabinetto/Bagno (Lavatory)

The city of Florence is overflowing with incredible artistic attractions and you shouldn’t visit expecting to see everything in one shot. Florence is a place you may find yourself adding to your travel itinerary year after year – and you’ll be just as excited to visit every time!

When to Visit Cape Town

Cape Town is a beautiful place to visit just about any time of the year. That is, of course, except for the windy months during which the wind gales are so strong the mountain passes end up shut down.

Cape Town is at its windiest between October and March and things are at their absolute worst during December when winds can blow as rough as 37 miles per hour on a regular basis. The strong winds also blow Portuguese men-of-war (aka stinging jellyfish) towards the shores, making it nearly impossible to swim.

The best time to visit Cape Town is during the month of April. The wind and summer heat will have tamed themselves and you can enjoy the warm weather and beautiful colors of autumn. The winter months are usually rainy but are stunningly green as well. If you wait until the spring months to visit you’ll be greeted by beautiful wildflowers and may even have an opportunity to spot a whale or two off of the shoreline.

Transportation throughout Cape Town

Believe it or not, the city of Cape Town doesn’t really have a large public transportation system and what they do have isn’t really cost effective to use. Consider asking the concierge at your Cape Town hotel where you can rent a scooter or bicycle. They’re cheaper and will afford you a better view of the city as you explore.

Health and Safety in Cape Town

Cape Town is generally a safe city to visit but, like just about every other major city, there is some level of petty crime and drug use. It is in your best interests to avoid traveling near the center of the city at night. The weekends in the center of Cape Town should be avoided as well because the area is quiet because of the end of the business week.

Petty theft is prevalent in the center of Cape Town and may be experienced in other areas as well. Thieves have in the past been bold enough to steal people’s cell phones right out of their hands (while they’re talking) and others will reach right through your open car window to take things off the seats.

Use caution if you use an ATM machine. Cancel your transaction right away if anyone attempts to “help” you and always make sure that you get your card back from the machine. Conceal your cash immediately after withdraw.

Glue sniffing is the drug of choice amongst children in Cape Town. While you may at first feel bad for a child begging at a street corner, it is important for you to understand that any cash you give him will likely go towards supporting his glue sniffing habit. Give them food instead, if you are so inclined, or find a reputable charity, like The Big Issue magazine, where you can donate cash.

Things to do in Cape Town

Cape Town, set at the base of the astounding Table Mountain, is full of incredible educational, interesting, and enjoyable attractions. The only problem you’ll have is deciding where to start once you arrive.

The best way to get a bird’s eye view of Cape Town is by taking a ride on the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway. The ride up the mountain only takes 3-5 minutes but you’ll have some of the most incredible views of the sea, bay, and city below. Check the operating times before you head out to the station – times change seasonally.

The South African National Gallery is one of the most phenomenal museums in the area. Inside you’ll find an extensive collection of art from the 19^th and 20^th centuries as well as some contemporary works of South African art depicting the area’s incredible history. Exhibits change regularly so you never know what you might find upon arrival.

If you love marine wildlife, or if you’re traveling with children in tow, you’ll definitely want to take a trip to the Two Oceans Aquarium. The aquarium, considered one of the best on the planet, houses aquatic wildlife from the Indian Ocean, the Atlantic, and from bodies of water around the world. There are dive tanks, touch pools for children, and dozens of other interactive (and hands-off) displays.

Cape Town has a lot to offer visitors from surrounding areas and the rest of the world. Plan your trip during South Africa’s fall months and prepare to be astounded!

Surrounded by the stunning Sierra Madre del Sur mountains, Oaxaca (pronounced wah-hah-ka), is bound to intrigue guests from all walks of life.

When to Visit Oaxaca

The valley in which Oaxaca is located sits approximately 5,000 feet above sea level. Due to its close proximity to the equator, temperatures in Oaxaca are relatively mild throughout the year. Most days boast spring-like temperatures but you will occasionally experience some very warm days, even during the winter months.

Oaxaca experiences a rainy season between July and October. September is usually the worst month and you are guaranteed a rain shower almost every afternoon, if not more frequently or steadily. The city’s tropical coast location almost guarantees hot, humid temperatures year round.

Methods of Transportation in Oaxaca

Most of the tourist attractions in the area are within walking distance of any hotel in Oaxaca, especially if you stay in the center of the town. If you can’t or don’t want to walk you can easily find a taxi or bus to get you where you need to go. Several of Oaxaca’s streets are designed for pedestrians alone, making it even safer to get around on foot.

Another viable option is to simply team up with a tour group. Tours will take you either by foot or bus to a number of the area’s best locations. You won’t have to worry about getting lost as you travel from place to place. The only downside is that you are sometimes limited by time and the tour group will be ready to move on to the next site long before you are.

We don’t recommend renting a motorcycle or scooter during your stay in Oaxaca. While this is relatively safe in many other Mexican towns, the rules of the road are much different, and a lot more dangerous. Most traffic laws are very rarely enforced, many of the area’s traffic lights are not in working order, and there is a disturbing lack of signage (including yield and stop signs). You are more likely to have a traffic accident on a bike or scooter in Oaxaca than in any other Mexican state.

Tipping Etiquette in Oaxaca

Tipping in Oaxaca, and throughout the rest of Mexico, is relatively standard. Many people in positions to receive a tip are earning very low wages (if any at all) so you should really consider leaving a tip. General guidelines are as follows:

• Bagging clerks at grocery stores are usually unpaid children. It is customary to leave them any loose change you receive but if you really want to help out the standard tip is $1 USD.
• Taxi drivers do not usually receive tips because of their union involvement. They usually build a tip right into your already high fare. Only leave a tip if your driver helps you with your luggage, waits for you, or does something above and beyond the call of duty.
• In restaurants, look for the word “propina” on your check. This word indicates that a gratuity has already been added to the bill. Otherwise, it is appropriate to tip around 10-20% depending on the meal or service you received.
• Tip bartenders $1-2 per round or 15% of your total tab.
• Tip bellboys or baggage carriers $1-2 per bag.
• Tip tour guides $5 per person if you are part of a large tour or 15% of the cost if you are part of a small group.

Things to do in Oaxaca

While in Oaxaca you’ll find yourself surrounded by historic attractions, astounding architecture, and incredible sites. If you’re not sure where to start, check out some of the most popular destinations first.

The Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca sits just north of the Santo Domingo church and, while small and unnoticeable from the street, provides one of the best representations of the area’s history. Inside you’ll find information about the development of Oaxaca from prehistoric times through the current day.

Oaxaca’s Ethnobotanical Garden is a stunning garden where visitors can learn about the botanical history of the region. There are guided tours and if you visit on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday you will be able to get a tour in English. The only other way to see the garden is through the window of the nearby cultural museum.

Aspiring chefs and foodies may want to visit the La Casa de los Sabores Cooking School or take a Casa Crespo Cooking Class to learn more about Mexican cuisine. History buffs will certainly want to take a trip out to Monte Alban for a glimpse at the archaeological sites in the area.

No matter what you do or see in Oaxaca you’re guaranteed to have an enjoyable experience. Relax, enjoy the atmosphere, taste the cuisine, and immerse yourself in Oaxaca’s laid back culture.

After the dot com glass ceiling fell through, the city readjusted itself to a more moderate standard of living and the city is once again a wonderful place for tourists and residents to enjoy. With plenty of cultural attractions, parks, and theatres to choose you are guaranteed to have a packed itinerary throughout your stay.

When to Visit San Francisco

San Francisco is a nice place to visit just about any time of year. The nicest weather, where temperatures are actually at their warmest, occurs between September and October. The coldest temperatures are around 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.4 degrees Celsius) to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (26.6 degrees Celsius). The winter months are usually rainy and the added wind from the nearby ocean can make temperatures seem cooler than anticipated so you should plan accordingly.

Transportation in San Francisco

Despite being one of the most popular and largest tourist destinations in the United States, the city of San Francisco proper is actually pretty small. With that in mind, it’s safe to say that you can reach most tourist attractions from any San Francisco hotel you choose to stay in.

Many San Francisco tourists enjoy walking from attraction to attraction. The most popular destinations, including Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Union Square, are easy to get to from the center of the city. You should be in relatively good shape and wear comfortable walking shoes, though – the steep slopes are more than some people expect them to be.

If walking isn’t your thing you will find a very promising public transportation system. There are streetcars, cablecars, buses, and a large subway system to choose from. The largest transportation system, Muni, is in charge of almost all of these systems and is incredibly reliable.

Taxi cabs and bicycles also provide viable options but we don’t recommend you try to drive in the city unless you are already familiar with its layout. Even if you do find your end destination we’re pretty sure you’ll have a ridiculously rough time finding a place to park.

Health and Safety Considerations in San Francisco

San Francisco is like every other major city around the world. It has a few areas you might want to avoid but is relatively safe for the average tourist.

The city of San Francisco has a high homeless population and you’ll likely see people panhandling almost everywhere you go. It is believed that most of the panhandlers, especially those near the Civic Center, are not dangerous but many have mental illnesses and exhibit unpredictable behavior and should be avoided.

During the evening hours you should stay out of the “Tenderloin” and Mission districts. These are safe areas during the day but they transform into something completely different at night. Ask your hotel concierge to help you mark your map so that you understand exactly where these areas begin and end before going out.

Free and Low Cost Attractions in San Francisco

The cost of living in San Francisco is relatively high. Somehow, though, the city manages to offer quite a variety of free and low-cost attractions to the public. Keep your eyes peeled for special deals during different parts of the week and make sure you explore the city parks, beaches, and public areas for some of the area’s hottest free theater performances.

There are several museums in San Francisco that offer free admission all of the time. These include:

• Chinese Culture Center
• Creativity Explored
• Fort Point Natural Historic Site
• Museo Italo-Americano
• Octagon House
• San Francisco Cable Car Museum
• Tattoo Art Museum
• San Francisco Art Institute

There are several other museums throughout San Francisco that do not offer free admission all of the time but do participate in a free admission program during the first week of every month. Each offers free admission on a different day so you’ll want to check in advance before heading out. These include:

• Asian Art Museum
• Cartoon Art Museum
• Exploratorium
• Museum of Craft and Folk Art
• San Francisco Museum of Craft and Design

Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the city and you’ll be amazed at the incredible attractions, concerts, and even free tours you might stumble upon. San Francisco warmly welcomes visitors from all walks of life. Take your time and explore all that the city has to offer.

When to Visit Oslo

Oslo is an incredible place to visit during the winter months if you love skiing but, contrary to popular belief, the weather is not cold year round. The temperatures during the winter months hover around 4 degrees Celsius (or 23 degrees Fahrenheit), often times boasting warmer temperatures than your standard American or European city.

The summer months are a very pleasant time to visit Oslo. The temperatures are warm yet reasonable and even the warmest heat waves, between May and August, only bring temperatures up to 33 degrees Celsius (or 90 Fahrenheit). Visitors will have to get used to summer “white nights” – periods of time where there are prolonged twilights or functional daylight until hours well after 11pm.

The time of year you choose to visit Oslo will really be based on your personal preference. Visit during the winter months (after Christmas) if you like to ski or wait until the warmer months if you’d prefer visiting the beaches.

Transportation throughout Oslo

While you may be tempted to rent a car for your stay in Oslo, doing so really isn’t necessary. The public transportation systems throughout the city include buses, the metro, trams, and even commuter trains. The best part is that you only have to learn how to interpret one ticketing system, as they all use the same. You can easily get to any tourist attraction via public transportation.

You can purchase tickets for public transportation from vending machines located around the city. You’ll also see free maps of the public transportation system in both post offices and tourist information centers. If you want to head out to the Bygdoy peninsula, where many of the most popular museums are located, you’ll need to take the ferry. The ferry system is included in the government-run public transportation system as well.

Where to Find the Oslo Tourist Board

Oslo is a very welcoming city for travelers and tourists. There are two main tourist information centers in the city, each of which has extended hours designed to accommodate travelers. At these centers you will be able to pick up information, book tours, and even purchase souvenirs. The tourist board also sells what is known as the “Oslo Pass,” a pass that allows tourists to visit local attractions at significantly discounted prices. The two main tourist centers are as follows:

• Trafikantent Service Center, near Central Station, Jernbanetorget 1
• Tourist Information, near City Hall, Fridtiof Nansens Plass 5

Etiquette in Oslo

Tipping is not expected anywhere in Norway. Sales tax and service charges are always included on bar and restaurant tabs. If you received exceptional service, it is appropriate to leave coins in the amount of 10% of your bill. You can tip taxi drivers and hotel cleaning staff but otherwise tipping is not standard practice.

When you enter a store in Oslo, do not attempt to haggle over prices. You will, for the most part, find yourself in established businesses and haggling is considered incredibly rude. The owner or vendor will either look angry or confused if you make a bargaining attempt. Save your haggling skills for the used car lot or second hand store.

It is customary to remove your shoes whenever you enter a private residence in Oslo. The only exception is if your host invites you to leave them on. This is incredibly important during the winter months because most sidewalks are not shoveled. As such, if you don’t remove your shoes you’ll end up ruining someone’s floors with mud, sand, and salt.

Health & Safety in Oslo

Oslo, and most of Norway, is considered relatively safe. You should, as usual, take normal safety precautions, taking special are to protect your valuables when traveling in public places – especially on crowded public transportation systems.

Part of the reason the city is so safe is the area’s extended hours of day light. During the summer months, for example, you’ll find it is only dark between 12 midnight and 4am. Even during those hours you may see a bit of light in the sky. Since typical crimes are easier to conduct in the dark, crime is obviously limited.

Stay away from the areas to the immediate south and west of Oslo’s Central Station. These areas are typically known for their drug activity and prostitution. While the areas aren’t necessarily dangerous, they’re worth avoiding unless you have a specific reason for visiting.

Oslo is an incredibly fun and exciting city to visit. The locals are friendly, helpful, and will welcome you with open arms. Choose your ideal vacation time, book a hotel in Oslo, and enjoy your stay!

Now, the city is a distinct reflection of both old and new – a destination appealing to travelers from all walks of life.

When to Visit Hanoi

Oddly enough, the most popular time of year for tourists to visit Hanoi is during the summer months. Unfortunately, the summer months are also the hottest, rainiest, and most humid. If you can resist the urge to visit during the busiest months you’ll find that the crowds are thinner and the city is easier to navigate.

The average temperature during the winter months in Hanoi is 65 degrees Fahrenheit (or 18 degrees Celsius), an incredibly comfortable temperature for touring the area. The winter months are also a fun time to visit as many tourists enjoy participating in some of the popular festivities marking the beginning of the New Year, especially the Tet Nguyen Dan festival.

Transportation throughout Hanoi

The most popular method of transportation throughout Hanoi is the rental car. While this is a completely acceptable and often inexpensive mode of transportation, it is important to note that most Hanoi rental car agencies will automatically assign a driver to your car. This is standard practice and is actually great for those who are nervous about getting around in a strange city.

Tourists who would prefer to carry themselves throughout the city should seriously consider renting a moped, motorcycle, or bicycle. If you plan on sticking to the downtown area of Hanoi you might even consider traveling on foot. A bicycle is great for those who plan on sticking within the city as well and is also good for those who might want to venture out towards some of the surrounding nature trails.

Take special note if you plan on touring Hanoi as a pedestrian. There are very few traffic laws and most motorcyclists think red lights are optional. Cross the street at a proper junction but don’t expect traffic to stop for you – ever. You’ll notice that most locals look for a large enough gap in traffic to step into the street without being hit or causing an accident. Most drivers in Vietnam follow one rule – not to hit anything.

Safety Concerns in Hanoi

There are rumors that Hanoi is not a friendly place for foreign travelers. The truth is that Hanoi spent a significant amount of time under foreign rule and, as such, certain political barriers were created that made it difficult for visitors. Today, however, Hanoi is a friendly place that welcomes tourism with open arms.

Travelers should be especially cautious when using public transportation systems in Hanoi. The bus system, for example, can be very intimidating and tourists are often preoccupied with navigating the schedules or routes. The terminals are usually very crowded, so a preoccupied tourist can easily turn himself into an easy target for thieves and pickpockets. Take standard travel precautions before venturing out in public, taking special care to not flash your money or leave your purse, bags, or wallet in places where they can be easily snatched.

If you need medical care while in Hanoi you should ask to be taken to Hanoi French Hospital (HFH). The hospital is the first and only international establishment of its kind in the city and specializes in serving not only locals but foreigners as well.

Proper Etiquette in Hanoi

As with most other Asian countries, it is important to use caution when eating with chopsticks. Never place your chopsticks standing upright in a bowl or food or rice. This practice is insulting because the chopsticks will remind your hosts of the incense sticks used during funerals. Never use your chopsticks to tap your bowl of rice either. It is considered bad luck and in your next life you may not have enough food to eat.

In Vietnam it is considered bad luck to eat every last grain of rice from your bowl. Instead, you should leave a few behind and then say a prayer to the Gods, thanking them for everyone who worked so hard to produce and harvest the rice you have eaten.

As is also tradition in most Asian countries, use proper etiquette when eating with a family. As a gesture of respect, everyone waits for the oldest member of the family to begin eating first. You should also make sure you eat everything you are given as it is a sign of gratitude towards your host who likely put the best pieces of food in your bowl to begin with. Politely put your hand over your bowl when you are full to show you are finished eating.

Your trip to Hanoi will be fun, interesting, educational, and jam packed with activities. Plan your trip for a slower time of year, when the weather is nicer and Hanoi hotels are cheaper, and use standard safety precautions and etiquette practices. And – of course – enjoy exploring Hanoi!

Munich is the perfect destination for anyone looking to explore and understand traditional German customs, rich folklore, and even contemporary life.

When to Visit Munich

Munich, fortunately, has four distinct seasons with typical weather patterns. The winter months are cold and snowy while the summer months are hot. You can visit Munich any time of the year but being able to walk through the gardens on a sunny day and stopping to sip a cold beer under a tree is an experience best had in June, though if you visit during the colder months you’ll have plenty of museums, theater houses, and restaurants to keep you busy as well. The winter months are, for the most part, relatively quiet as most of the tourists tend to visit during the summer.

Busy times in Munich are the weeks before Easter, during Fasching, also known as the German Mardi Gras. The end of September and early October is usually busy as well, during the ever popular Oktoberfest festival.

Transportation throughout Munich

Start your trip through Munich with a Grey Line bus tour of the city. During the summer months this tour departs every hour and from your comfortable bus seat you’ll get an idea of how the city is laid out – and will then be able to determine what modes of transportation you really want to use.

Most of the major tourist sites are within walking distance of the hotels in Munich and if you don’t want to walk, the subway and streetcar systems are relatively simple to navigate. If you visit during the spring or fall months you may want to rent a bicycle. Munich is full of dedicated bicycle trails and riders always have the right of way in traffic.

Health and Safety Considerations in Munich

Munich has an incredibly low crime rate but it is not, of course, completely free of crime. Take caution if you are traveling alone, especially on the public transportation systems, and keep your eyes peeled while you are in crowds (especially drunk crowds near festival times). Racism isn’t especially prevalent but race related crimes are not completely unheard of either.

When walking, you’ll note that the pavement closest to the road is marked for bicyclists. Do not walk on the bicycle paths. Doing so is akin to walking down the middle of a highway and expecting to not be hit. Bicyclists will blow their bike horns to warn you but at the end of the day you simply need to realize you are in the way.

Jay walking is also a serious offense in Munich. In these instances, pedestrians do NOT have the right of way. Do not attempt to cross a road if you have a red light. If you get hit by a car you’ll not only feel pretty stupid but the police will not give you any sympathy, either. As a matter of fact, you’ll be considered at fault and will be asked to pay for damages to the car that hit you.

Finding the Tourist Information Halls in Munich

Before you start exploring, you’ll want to make a short trip to one of the main tourist board halls in Munich. There are three, each of which is located at a different area throughout the city. Each has different hours as well. Keep your eyes peeled for the following:

• Tourist Office at City Hall, Marienplatz 2, 80331 Munchen
• Tourist Office at Main Station, Central Train Station, Bahnhofplatz 2, 80335 Munchen
• Munich Tourist Board, Tourismusamt Munchen, Sendlinger Strasse 1, 80331 Munchen

German Etiquette

In most German restaurants, clubs, and bars you will find that a 15% service charge is automatically added to your bill. It is customary to round the total up to the next full Euro figure. Do not expect to be given a paper check in a German restaurant. Your waiter or waitress will tell you the total and you will then tell him how much you are paying (the total plus your rounding up). You’ll then hand him the money and he’ll bring you back your change. The standard for rounding up, especially if you are paying for multiple people, is anywhere from 3-5% of the bill.

Make sure you carry plenty of cash as you travel through Munich and the rest of Germany. While the Germans are relatively advanced when it comes to technology, most places (restaurants, stores, etc) do not accept credit cards. They prefer to use either cash or the local German debit card system. Most hotels will take credit cards, as will a few upscale restaurants and entertainment venues. Otherwise, you’ll need to have enough Euros to pay in full. You can’t pay by check (that’s almost unheard of) and if you try to pay with a traveler’s check you’ll end up paying a huge service fee for cashing.

Finally, remember that water in Germany is not free. When you enter a restaurant or bar you will not be given water when you sit down and if you ask for it you will be asked if you want still water or carbonated water. (Don’t ask for “tap water” – it’s rude). You will be charged for your glass of water. No matter what you order, expect to pay for every refill.

There is so much to do and see in Munich. Once you visit a tourist center, learn about the area attractions, and figure out what mode of transportation you want to use you’ll be more than prepared to begin exploring. Enjoy!

When to Visit Calcutta

The best time to visit Calcutta is between the months of November and February. While the average tourist season is a bit longer, lasting from October through March, you’ll find that the weather in October is a bit too humid, and that in March the weather is beginning to get a little too warm. The nicest months to visit are in Decemberand January, when the sun is warm and there is very little rain.

The worst time to visit Calcutta is during the months of April, May, and June. During these months the weather is incredibly hot and humid and the oppressive heat will make it nearly impossible to go out and sight-see during normal daytime hours. During the months of July, August, and September you’ll have to travel at your own risk as those months are right in the midst of monsoon season.

Transportation throughout Calcutta

The most common form of transportation in Calcutta is the taxi cab, though you may find that a cab ride is more expensive than you originally anticipated. Because most of the meters are old, you’ll end up paying about 50% more than what the meter reads, making it very difficult to determine whether or not you’re paying a fair amount for your ride. If you are traveling during the summer months you’ll want to make sure you call Kolkata Cabs. They charge a flat rate and, unlike the traditional yellow cab, actually have air conditioning.

Etiquette in Calcutta

Tipping expected in certain service industries in Calcutta but not in others. You are not, for example, expected to tip a taxi cab driver. You should, on the other hand, tip the porters at the airport, train station, or at your hotel. If you have a private tour guide or driver you should tip him approximately 10% per day for his services.

In restaurants you are expected to tip between 5 and 10% for good service. You are not necessarily expected to leave tips for services provided to you in a hotel (for cleaning services, for example).

Check with the concierge at any of your Calcutta hotels before you leave on a tourist excursion. He will be able to tell you what type of attire you should be wearing. If you’re going to visit any sort of religious center you should be dressed modestly. Your head should be covered and you will be required to take off your shoes before entering. While most locals are understanding of tourists, it is always better to try to blend in and respect local customs no matter where you are traveling.

Learning Indian Phrases

While it is unlikely you will find yourself in a situation where there are no interpreters or people who speak English, it is advisable to learn at least a few Indian phrases. Doing so will endear you to your hosts and let them know that you cared enough to at least attempt to learn a bit of their language. Some of the most useful phrases to learn are as follows:

• Na-ma-ste (Hello)
• Ach-ha (Goodbye)
• Kripaya (Please)
• Dan-ya-vad (Thank you)
• Bath-room kid-har hai (Where is the bathroom?)
• Mujhe paani chahiye (I want water)
• Ye kitne ka hai (How much is this?)
• Ma-dad (Help)

Things to See in Calcutta

There are, of course, plenty of astounding things to see and do in a city as amazing as Calcutta. Make sure you start with a trip to the Kalighat Kali Temple, the temple from which the city got its name. The temple has had the distinction of being considered a holy place of the goddess, or Shakti pitham, for the past 500 years. The temple that sits on the property now was built during the 19^th century and the entire complex is filled with shrines, statues, shops, and vendors clamoring to sell devotional items.

A few other notable attractions in Calcutta include the Howrah Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Zoological Garden Kolkata (or the Alipore Zoo), and the Malik Ghat Flower Market. Each represents a distinct part of the ever evolving culture of Calcutta.

The city of Calcutta is warm, welcoming, and waiting for your arrival. Your trip to Calcutta is one we’re sure you’ll never forget!

There’s always something to do in Johannesburg, whether you’re there for business or pleasure. All you have to do to fit in is learn a little bit about the culture and find your way around.

When to Visit Johannesburg

Due to its relatively high elevation, the city of Johannesburg is lucky enough to experience a pleasantly mild temperature year round. Summer days and evenings are all very warm and evenings are very mild as well with temperatures averaging around 25 degrees Celsius (or a moderate 77 degrees Fahrenheit). The winter months, with temperatures averaging between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius (or 64 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit), tend to be the rainiest but even then the days are not very humid.

Cutting through the Red Tape

Foreigners visiting other countries should, of course, take special care to ensure they have the proper paperwork before leaving home. If you are visiting Johannesburg, or anywhere in South Africa, from the United States, Australia, European Union, Japan, Leichtenstein, Canada, New Zealand, Singapore, or Switzerland you will need nothing more than a passport – a visa is not required. Visitors from anywhere else in the world should apply for a visa from the closest South African embassy at least 4 weeks before embarking on their journeys.

Speaking the Language in Johannesburg and South Africa

Throughout South Africa you’ll find that there are more than 11 official languages and you’ll hear all of them on Johannesburg. These include English, Zulu, Ndebele, Northern Sotho, Southern Sotho, Tswana, Swati, Afrikaans, Xhosa, Tsonga, and Vendi. While it’s nice to learn a few local phrases you’ll find it is relatively easy to communicate in English, as long as you are fluent in the language. Never attempt to speak to a stranger in Afrikaans, as this was the language used before the Nationalist Government was overturned in the early 90’s and some people find the dialect to be offensive. Learning a few phrases of Zulu and Xhosa will prove helpful as you travel.

Basic Zulu phrases, for example, include:

• Sawubona – hello
• Hamba Kahle – goodbye, see you later
• Ukudla – food
• Isiphuzo – drink
• Bonga – thanks

Of course, as with most countries, there are some standard slang phrases you might find helpful to know as well. You’ll find these words and phrases are common across all of South Africa and learning a few will make communicating a bit easier. For example:

• Robot – traffic light
• Howzit? – a commonly used greeting
• Eish – a common exclamation used in place of “oh no,” or “my goodness”
• Lekka chow – a good meal
• Brah or broe – your best friend
• Egoli – a common slang name used for Johannesburg

Hot Attractions in Johannesburg

There are dozens of incredible attractions to keep you occupied throughout Johannesburg – some indoors and some out. Make sure you include at least a few of these as you plan your itinerary so that you’re able to get a feeling for what life was like as the city, and country, formed.

At the Apartheid Museum, for example, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about life in Johannesburg during the 70’s and 80’s – a time when political unrest was prevalent. The museum is one of the most powerful tourist attractions in the city, featuring installations and images portraying apartheid scenes as people from all over the country flocked to Johannesburg from surrounding townships in search of safety.

Constitution Hill is yet another powerful tourist attraction, depicting what life was like for prisoners during the apartheid days. Visitors will learn about daily living conditions inside the jails, view the food areas, and even witness the toilets where prisoners had to go in plain view of others while worrying about contracting diseases like typhoid or enteric fever. Prisoners lived in dehumanizing conditions, were brutalized, and were denied basic life necessities.

No trip to Johannesburg is complete without a trip to the Johannesburg Zoo. The zoo started out over 100 years ago as nothing but a small park and has grown into one of the largest public venues in Johannesburg. The collection consists of more than 2,070 animals representing over 365 species of animal life. The zoo, which specializes in providing medical care to animals, offers dozens of great educational programs designed to entertain visitors of all ages.

The city of Johannesburg is rich with history and culture representing all of South Africa – from its earliest days to today. You won’t regret spending a few days exploring all that the city has to offer.

The architecture dates back as far as the 16^th century and the atmosphere, flanked by the incredible Andes Mountains, is both peaceful and welcoming.

When to Visit Santiago

The time of year you travel to Santiago will depend on your reason for visiting. The city is in the Southern Hemisphere, which means the seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. While the four seasons are each defined the weather is usually rather tepid year round – think southern California.

The temperatures during the spring months, September through November, average between 43 degrees Fahrenheit (6 Celsius) and 73 degrees Fahrenheit (23 Celsius). The flowers and trees begin to bloom and the colors are absolutely beautiful. The summer months, December through February, are much warmer and temperatures range from 53 degrees Fahrenheit (12 Celsius) to a steamy 93 degrees Fahrenheit (34 Celsius). The temperatures are usually very warm during the day but cool down considerably during the evening hours.

The fall months last from March through May and temperatures will begin to fall to anywhere between 45 Fahrenheit (7 Celsius) to 72 Fahrenheit (22 Celsius). You may not want to visit during the month of April, however, as this is the rainiest season. Temperatures during the winter months, June through September, average around 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 Celsius).

Transportation throughout Santiago

Santiago does have its own airport, Arturo Merino Benitez. The airport is approximately 17 kilometers away from the center of the city and is easily accessed by public transportation. If you should choose to take a taxi from the city make sure you get an “official” taxi – the blue ones with official taxi identification. Airport buses are the least expensive option and are offered by Centro Puerto and Tour Express ever 15 or 30 minutes.

Once you’re settled in the city you’ll want to use public transportation systems to get around. The most common are the metro (subway), buses, or taxi cabs. The metro is easy to follow and is relatively inexpensive. The bus system is a bit more extensive than the metro but is usually more confusing for foreign visitors. Taxi cabs, of course, are plentiful and come in three varieties – normal, radio, and colectivos. Normal taxi cabs are the ones you an hail on the street; radio cabs are the ones you must call for; and colectivos carry small groups on fixed routes only.

Safety Considerations while Traveling in Santiago

Santiago is considered a safe city for travelers but, as usual, you should not draw negative attention towards yourself by carrying large sums of money or wearing expensive jewelry. Keep your eyes on your personal belongings at all times or lock them in the safe in your room.

It’s important to note that Chile is located in a relatively unstable geographic location. This means that the odds of you feeling tremors, of not a full earthquake, are pretty high. Most of the buildings in Santiago have been built with the proper construction design, allowing them to sway during tremors. If you should happen to experience a tremor, just remember to stay calm, find a strong location in the building (under a door frame), and stay away from windows or items that could topple over. If you are outside, find the most open space possible to avoid being hit by falling objects.

Things to do in Santiago

There are tons of sights and attractions to keep visitors to Santiago occupied. If you’re visiting for the first time you’ll probably have a difficult time determining where to start. If this is the case, check out some of these attractions first.

Start by climbing the nearby Santa Lucia Hill. From the top of this hill you can see the entire city of Santiago as well as the beautiful Andes. The hill is littered with walking paths, beautiful gardens, statues, and even a small art museum.

San Cristobal Hill, accessible via the aerial tram, is also a great place to stop if you’d like to enjoy some of the area’s astounding scenery. This hill is home to the Metropolitan Zoo, a myriad of gardens, and two gorgeous natural swimming pools.

If you’d prefer to stay in the city itself take a trip over to the Plaza de Armas, the city’s main square. Here you’ll find plenty of important buildings including the Bishop’s Palace and the National Historical Museum.

The city of Santiago, Chile welcomes visitors from around the globe. Make Santiago the focal point of your stay in Chile or choose one of the other fabulous hotels in Chile to visit. Either way, you won’t regret visiting this incredible city.