Amsterdam Travel
You can arrive via plane or train and regardless of what you choose, one of the first thing you notice is how much of an international city Amsterdam really is. The Dutch are quite helpful and most speak English fluently. If you are planning to visit this area, here are some tips and resources that will help.
Visa and Passport Requirements
All citizens of Australia, Canada, the USA, and the EU do not need a visa to go to the Netherlands, if they are staying three months or less. While this is true, they must have a current passport and one that is valid for longer than their visit.
People visiting from most other countries must have a tourist visa and passport, which can be acquired online.
When to Visit Amsterdam
It is important to understand that it rains a lot in Amsterdam so having an umbrella with you is a must. If you want to visit during the driest time of the year, try to plan a trip over the summer, between the months of June and August. While this is great weather-wise, the city is typically crowded with tourists at this time, too. Other times to try visiting include mid-September or in May.
Cannabis and Amsterdam
You have likely heard about some of the “wild” stories people tell after visiting Amsterdam. It is important to know that cannabis can be purchased at licensed coffee shops, but that is not all. Cannabis is not legal here, but it is tolerated if it is only purchased for personal consumption. If you plan to indulge while visiting, be sure to keep that requirement in mind.
Bangkok Travel
Bangkok is considered one of the most popular cities in all of Thailand with more than 35 million tourists visiting each year. This modern area is ideal for exploring and has attractions for every type of visitor – from temples and cultural monuments, to canal rides and bustling markets. However, just like any other big city, there are a few things to keep in mind, too, regarding what to do and where to go.
Tourist Price vs. Local Price
When you visit Bangkok, there is a huge difference in the local price and tourist price. For example, there are stories of people purchasing wax at one location for 500 THB (about $16) and later saw the same item, in a more touristy area for triple the price originally paid.
The main reason for this is the concept of the tourist price and the local price. While there is no guarantee on how to avoid the tourist price, you can research the best places to go to avoid this.
What to Expect During Your Visit
When visiting Bangkok, remember, this is the capital of Thailand – it is colorful, crowded, noisy, smile-inducing, and sometimes maddening. There are ancient sites, temples, and an array of other attractions you can visit, along with modern shopping areas that have a high-end yet kitschy ambience. Bangkok can be an overwhelming place to visit, but it is also an interesting city that represent the Southeast Asia lifestyle.
One of the most appealing parts of Bangkok is that it serves as a gateway to many of the other parts of Thailand. After visiting the locations that appeal most to you, you can book a short flight to an array of other popular destinations, such as Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. If you don’t feel like flying, you can also hop on a bus or in a train for a very low fare.
Sydney Travel
Shrimp on the barbies, dingoes, the famed opera house, koalas – who wouldn’t be excited and ready to take a trip down under? If you are planning an excursion to Sydney, there are a few things you need to know before you depart.
While Australians and Americans are united in the language they speak, there are certain cultural differences that exist. Some of the tips and information here will help you make the most of your experience.
Getting a Glimpse at the Koalas
If kangaroos, wombats, and koalas are the first thought that comes to mind when planning your Sydney excursion, it is important to know where to find them. You can visit the Taronga Zoo, which is a wildlife park close to the rocks and Featherdale. If you are fascinated by all the Aussie animals, then Featherdale should definitely be on your list to visit.
Make Sure You Have Comfortable Shoes
While it may seem obvious, this is something many people visiting the area don’t even think about. Sydney is more like New York City than many people believe. It is a busy place, there are many people, and you will do a lot of walking. With so many attractions to see, you have a lot of ground to cover from Bondi Beach and the Rocks to Luna Park and Harbour Bridge, you will find yourself exploring the area and walking – a lot.
Ice – What’s Ice?
The U.S. is one of the few countries that actually likes ice in their drinks. Don’t expect to receive any while you are visiting Sydney.
If you have plans to visit Sydney, be sure you are ready by using the tips and information found here. This will help you have an amazing experience.