How to choose the right timing for holiday in Singapore?
Understand what you want when you plan your holiday will be a key driver to choose your best travel date.
So, to make sure you know them you may start by answering these questions:
- What will I do?
- What will I see?
- How much money I want to spend?
- How many days will I have in Singapore?
- Will I spend my holiday with my spouse, family, friends, or group of people I don’t know?
So, plan your holiday far before your actual travel date. You shall be able to enjoy your trip while in Singapore. No rush…. Have a quality time here.
In my opinion, the best time to visit Singapore is when there are festival and events going on in the city, school holidays, and public holidays. You’ll see more things and can do lots of activities either alone, with your spouse, or with your kids.
4 Important Things for Your Holiday
- TRAVEL DOCUMENTS:
- Passport:
Your passport shall be at least valid for 6 months prior your travel date. - Visa:
Check out my Singapore Visa page to know whether you need visa to enter to Singapore or not. If yes, you should apply for it in your home country. - Ticket:
Make sure you have your return ticket (needed when you enter Singapore by air or land) or ticket to your next destination after Singapore. Sometime the immigration officer will ask this randomly. - LUGGAGE:
You may want to travel light - don't bring too many clothes. I’m sure you'll need lots of space for all new things you may buy during your trip.
For your info, Singapore is hot and steamy even in cloudy days due to its tropical island climate. So, choose casual light summer clothes preferably in cotton that are easy to move around for a full day out in the city.
If you plan to visit exclusive restaurants, nightclub, and disco, includes some casually elegant attire.
Don't forget your sun screen and suntan cream, light-weight folded umbrella or waterproof jacket to protect you from sun and rain.
- ACOMMODATIONS:
It’s important to book your room from your home country.
Singapore is favorite holiday destination for people around the region so, the hotel occupancy rates is very high. During peak season you may have difficulty finding a good hotel with reasonable price.
So, what is your budget? If you have limited budget I’ll recommend you to check out one of cheap hotel in Singapore, Fragrance Hostel
If you have more budgets I’ll recommend you to stay in one of affordable hotels in the heart of the city – Elizabeth Hotel
And, if you want to taste high-life in Singapore, you can live in one of Singapore’s luxury hotel – the Fullerton. Many people said this hotel is the only 6-stars hotel in Singapore.
- CAMERA AND VIDEO:
While you plan for holiday, don’t forget your camera or video camera. Pictures say thousand of words so tell your friends or relative in your home country stories about your trip with pictures.
Most importantly, don’t forget to bring charger for your devices, transformer if you carry a device with different voltage with Singapore’s voltage which is 220 – 240 volts AC and converter if your device’s pin head is not three-pin plug and socket system.
I believe your holiday will run smoothly when you plan your holiday properly. Well, enjoy your holidays....
Sate Ayam is chicken fillet that has been flavored and burned over the coals. It is soft and tasty cuisine make this demand of many people. Moreover, served with peanut sauce which has sweet taste and a spicy. Make this the more delicious cuisine.
Instructions
1. Provide the material:
• 250 gr chicken fillet, cut the form of a dice
• 5 cloves of onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1 lemon fruit
• ½ tsp pepper powder
• 1 tsp salt
2. Mashed Onion and garlic. Then added salt, pepper powder and lemon water.
3. Chicken fillet then mix with a flavor that has to be mashed. Then leave for 15 minutes.
4. Arrange a few snippets of beef sate with the jab then roasted over live coals.
5. Make the sauce (Sambal Kacang): Peanut fry and then mashed with red chili and palm sugar. Then
enter onion, salt, terasi and water.
6. Serve chicken sate (Sate Ayam) with the sauce (sambal kacang) and fried onion.
Source: ehow
Your first arrival will be greeted by a Tongkonan located in the middle of the road. Tongkonan which stands on the foundation of this round indicates that you've officially arrived in Tana Toraja. You are going to through this the main street of this city. Others road branching are not as wide as the main street. This main road connects with Palopo and Enrekang. This morning, Rantepao still foggy. Weather is more than just cool. I'm shivering in the foggy morning. I'm happy!
As a tourist, you will definitely feel at home when you at this place. Almost all tourism facilities that you need is available here. Do not imagine Rantepao as a very village as I imagine before seeing Tana Toraja with my own eyes . I imagine Rantepao like the village where the passing vehicle is very rare and indigenous communities are still very strong in everyday life. I am completely wrong. Rantepao town turned out to have entered the category. Rantepao is not a big city with buildings of skyscrapers. But here lies the wisdom, Rantepao moving in a nice rhythm, perfect for your vacation, including me. Rantepao has a number of auto bus companies, banks, atm, internet cafe, the hotel began for backpacker class to five star class, church, souvenir shops, restaurants and travel agents who sell tickets and renting services of tour guides. Complete anyway? You do not need to bother to organize your itinerary from afar. All available here.
Rantepao itself to me is almost feels like village of Caucasians. Lots of foreigners are scattered around the road, down to the corners of the road to the hotel and homestay. These kind of atmosphere like this once I get in Legian Kuta Bali. Various Caucasians, both young people themselves, in pairs, in groups, until a pair of grandparents, romantic, can be found in corners of the attractions in Tana Toraja. Rantepao own citizens have unique boned and accent.
But do not imagine Rantepao like Bali who live 24 hours. Toward evening, although festivities remain readily available in the market, but the excitement is just located in restaurants, markets and souvenir markets only. If Kuta has a club, Rantepao not. Here, spend the night should be done by relaxing in the hotel, talk or walk to the market to see the merchandise.
Well, because the tourism object around Tana Toraja has no light lamp lighting and will close just after 6 o'clock at night or before day in dark, so you should return to Rantepao at night. Not good visiting graves at night. To get around Rantepao area, you can ride 'pete-pete', small bus, or hire vehicles ranging from cars to motorcycles are generally provided by the hotel. It's fun too to try going around Tana Toraja by ride a motorcycle if you were in small group (1-2 people).
Chuuk Lagoon
Lost Fleet Chuuk, Micronesia
On February 17, 1944, American Task Force 58 engaged in Operation Hailstone, dropping over 500 tons of bombs on the Japanese navy. Today, Chuuk Lagoon (also called Truk Lagoon) holds the wrecks of 60 Japanese ships, the largest concentration of sunken ships in the world. The 433-foot Fujikawa Maru is the most famous, an aircraft carrier that sits upright in 30 to 112 feet of water, a gaping torpedo hole in her side. A combination of warm water, prolific marine life, and lagoon currents has acted as an incubator, transforming the WWII hulks--their guns, trucks, silverware, and sake bottles left undisturbed--into artificial reefs.
Details: Most air connections to Chuuk are via Guam. Stay at the Blue Lagoon Dive Resort. Doubles from $130; 011-691/330-2727, fax 011-691/330-2439, bluelagoondiveresort.com/. Dive operator: Blue Lagoon Dive Shop. Two-dive boat trip, $95 per person; 011-691/330-2796, fax 011-691/330-4307.
Best times: January to April.
El Questro Wilderness Park
Kimberely, Australia
El Questro is the ultimate outback experience: a million-acre working cattle ranch in the middle of Kimberley, just a dot on the map of massive, sparsely populated Western Australia. Explore the property's many tropical gorges or remote water holes, or go on a ranger-led horse, foot, or four-wheel-drive trek to waterfalls, thermal springs, and Aboriginal rock art. There's a fancy hotel, with suites, cantilevered over the Chamberlain River, but those whose wallets dictate Foster's instead of champagne can choose one of El Questro's three less-expensive lodging options--including camping sites under the stars.
Details: One hour by air from Darwin. Suites start at $603 per person per night (with all meals and most activities), bungalows sleeping one to four people are $147, tented cabins for two run $90, and camping is $8.50 per person; 011-61/8-9169-1777, fax 011-61/8-9169-1383, elquestro.com.au/. Closed November to April.
Sturgis Motorcycle RallySturgis, South Dakota
For one week in early August, the town of Sturgis (population 6,400) hosts America's largest motorcycle rally, now attracting well over a half-million people. Begun in 1938 by the local Jackpine Gypsies, the Black Hills Motor Classic grew over the years into a bacchanal drawing gangs of self-styled outlaws. In the late 1980s, the city partnered with the Jackpine Gypsies to civilize the event, and today law and order prevail. Baby strollers are not an uncommon sight--which is not to say that the saloons and tattoo parlors don't still do a brisk business. Wanna-bes and diehards alike partake in the hill climbs and concerts. Downtime is spent admiring each other's bikes, marveling at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, or eating at the Road Kill Cafe--favorites include Chicken That Didn't Quite Cross the Road and the daily special, Guess That Mess.
Details: Sturgis is 24 miles north of Rapid City. City of Sturgis Rally Department: 605/720-0800, fax 605/720-0801, sturgismotorcyclerally.com/.
Mercado de HechiceriaLa Paz, Bolivia
At La Paz's Witchcraft Market, proud chola women sit among their goods like queens, unfailingly wearing two braids festooned behind them and bowler hats adapted from the British many years ago. What they sell: herbal-tea fusions, folk cures, coca leaves, figurines, snakeskins, slabs of llama lard to be burned in offerings to the gods, and amulets to guarantee a long and happy sex life. The market has lately begun to accommodate the growing number of gringo curiosity seekers, and booths hawking colorful alpaca sweaters and woven textiles do a brisker business than the vendors pushing dried llama fetuses.
Details: Held daily, on Calle Linares between Calle Santa Cruz and Calle Sagárnaga. Best times: April to October.
Diving with Manta raysTobago, Lesser Antilles
Divers are flocking to the island of Tobago for the chance to swim with monster manta rays. A dozen or so giant mantas, 6 to 10 feet wide, live in the Batteaux Bay area, some year-round. Divers may have to settle for a sighting of the creatures, but most will be able to interact with them. The friendly mantas encourage divers to hold on for a ride--a practice that once earned them the nickname Tobago taxis. Today's more-sensitive approach is to merely swim in their presence.
Details: Stay beachside at the Manta Lodge, a dive resort with a PADI facility. Doubles begin at $95 (low season) or $115 (high season); 868/660-5268, fax 868/660-5030, mantalodge.com/.
Best times: November to April.
Lost Fleet Chuuk, Micronesia
On February 17, 1944, American Task Force 58 engaged in Operation Hailstone, dropping over 500 tons of bombs on the Japanese navy. Today, Chuuk Lagoon (also called Truk Lagoon) holds the wrecks of 60 Japanese ships, the largest concentration of sunken ships in the world. The 433-foot Fujikawa Maru is the most famous, an aircraft carrier that sits upright in 30 to 112 feet of water, a gaping torpedo hole in her side. A combination of warm water, prolific marine life, and lagoon currents has acted as an incubator, transforming the WWII hulks--their guns, trucks, silverware, and sake bottles left undisturbed--into artificial reefs.
Details: Most air connections to Chuuk are via Guam. Stay at the Blue Lagoon Dive Resort. Doubles from $130; 011-691/330-2727, fax 011-691/330-2439, bluelagoondiveresort.com/. Dive operator: Blue Lagoon Dive Shop. Two-dive boat trip, $95 per person; 011-691/330-2796, fax 011-691/330-4307.
Best times: January to April.
El Questro Wilderness Park
Kimberely, Australia
El Questro is the ultimate outback experience: a million-acre working cattle ranch in the middle of Kimberley, just a dot on the map of massive, sparsely populated Western Australia. Explore the property's many tropical gorges or remote water holes, or go on a ranger-led horse, foot, or four-wheel-drive trek to waterfalls, thermal springs, and Aboriginal rock art. There's a fancy hotel, with suites, cantilevered over the Chamberlain River, but those whose wallets dictate Foster's instead of champagne can choose one of El Questro's three less-expensive lodging options--including camping sites under the stars.
Details: One hour by air from Darwin. Suites start at $603 per person per night (with all meals and most activities), bungalows sleeping one to four people are $147, tented cabins for two run $90, and camping is $8.50 per person; 011-61/8-9169-1777, fax 011-61/8-9169-1383, elquestro.com.au/. Closed November to April.
Sturgis Motorcycle RallySturgis, South Dakota
For one week in early August, the town of Sturgis (population 6,400) hosts America's largest motorcycle rally, now attracting well over a half-million people. Begun in 1938 by the local Jackpine Gypsies, the Black Hills Motor Classic grew over the years into a bacchanal drawing gangs of self-styled outlaws. In the late 1980s, the city partnered with the Jackpine Gypsies to civilize the event, and today law and order prevail. Baby strollers are not an uncommon sight--which is not to say that the saloons and tattoo parlors don't still do a brisk business. Wanna-bes and diehards alike partake in the hill climbs and concerts. Downtime is spent admiring each other's bikes, marveling at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum & Hall of Fame, or eating at the Road Kill Cafe--favorites include Chicken That Didn't Quite Cross the Road and the daily special, Guess That Mess.
Details: Sturgis is 24 miles north of Rapid City. City of Sturgis Rally Department: 605/720-0800, fax 605/720-0801, sturgismotorcyclerally.com/.
Mercado de HechiceriaLa Paz, Bolivia
At La Paz's Witchcraft Market, proud chola women sit among their goods like queens, unfailingly wearing two braids festooned behind them and bowler hats adapted from the British many years ago. What they sell: herbal-tea fusions, folk cures, coca leaves, figurines, snakeskins, slabs of llama lard to be burned in offerings to the gods, and amulets to guarantee a long and happy sex life. The market has lately begun to accommodate the growing number of gringo curiosity seekers, and booths hawking colorful alpaca sweaters and woven textiles do a brisker business than the vendors pushing dried llama fetuses.
Details: Held daily, on Calle Linares between Calle Santa Cruz and Calle Sagárnaga. Best times: April to October.
Diving with Manta raysTobago, Lesser Antilles
Divers are flocking to the island of Tobago for the chance to swim with monster manta rays. A dozen or so giant mantas, 6 to 10 feet wide, live in the Batteaux Bay area, some year-round. Divers may have to settle for a sighting of the creatures, but most will be able to interact with them. The friendly mantas encourage divers to hold on for a ride--a practice that once earned them the nickname Tobago taxis. Today's more-sensitive approach is to merely swim in their presence.
Details: Stay beachside at the Manta Lodge, a dive resort with a PADI facility. Doubles begin at $95 (low season) or $115 (high season); 868/660-5268, fax 868/660-5030, mantalodge.com/.
Best times: November to April.
10 places to see before you die
By Patricia Schultz & The Staff, December 2003/January 2004 issue | Subscribe to the magazine
What you'll find in this story: dream destinations, top vacation spots, amazing places, trips around the world, exotic travel, India travel
Excerpted from 1,000 Places to See Before You Die, Copyright © 2003 by Patricia Schultz. Used by permission of Workman Publishing Co., Inc., New York. All Rights Reserved.
Tossing aside the obvious, we narrowed it down to the 10 that really got our motors running.
Jaisalmer Rajasthan, India
Known as the Golden City, this former caravan center on the route to the Khyber Pass rises from a sea of sand, its 30-foot crenellated walls and medieval sandstone fort sheltering carved spires and palaces. So little has changed here that it's easy to imagine yourself back in the city's early days, in the thirteenth century. Jaisalmer's wealth originally came from the heavy levies it placed on camel caravans passing through, and merchants and townspeople built handsome havelis (mansions elaborately carved from the local golden stone). It's the only fortress city in India still functioning, with one quarter of its population living within the original walls.
Details: Six hours by car from Jodhpur. Stay in the Narayan Niwas Palace, a former caravansary built by the maharaja in 1840. Doubles from $48 (low season) or $60 (high season); 011-91/29922-52408, fax 011-91/29922-52101, narayanniwas.com/.
Best times: October to February.
Highland games, Braemar, Scotland
Begun in the Middle Ages as county fairs for the exchange of goods and news, these summer sporting events gave clan chiefs the chance to check out the physical prowess of the area's most promising young lads. Of the nation's 40-some annual gatherings, the ones at Braemar are the most renowned. (Queen Elizabeth usually pops in from Balmoral Castle.) A breed of gigantic men--called the Heavies--engage in "throwing the hammer," "putting the stone," and the prime event, "tossing the caber"--in which they hurl a 20-foot tree trunk weighing over 130 pounds. Expect bagpipes, bright tartans, Highlands dancing, and a nip of whiskey to help things along.
Details: Held the first Saturday in September, in Braemar's Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park. Tickets are $20 to $36; 011-44/1339-755-377 (phone and fax), braemargathering.org/.
Giants Causeway
Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland
The grand and astonishing Giant's Causeway--on the northern coast of the island--is made up of more than 40,000 volcanic basalt columns, each a foot or two in diameter. Most are hexagonal, but some have four or five sides, and others have as many as 10 (and reach as high as 40 feet). If modern-day visitors are struck with wonder at the sight, imagine the disbelief of the ancient Irish, who attributed the geological wonder to the fabled giant Finn McCool. The warrior was said to have created the Causeway as a bridge to his lady love on the Scottish island of Staffa. We now know it was formed by volcanic eruptions some 60 million years ago. Hopscotch along the columns, or marvel at the Causeway from the clifftop belvederes.
Details: 75 miles northwest of Belfast; 011-44/28-207-31855, fax 011-44/28-207-32537, northantrim.com/.
Moscow Metro, Moscow, Russia
Details: For information in the U.S., contact the Russian National Group, 212/575-3431, fax 212/575-3434, russia-travel.com/.
Cha Ca La Vong,
Hanoi, Vietnam
Cha Ca La Vong serves only one dish--cha ca, a succulent fried-fish masterpiece, the recipe for which has been in the Doan family for generations (the name translates roughly to "curried Red River fish"). After more than seven decades, cha ca became so entrenched in Hanoi that the city renamed the lane out front in its honor. A rickety flight of wooden stairs leads to the unremarkable second-floor dining room, full of equally rickety chairs. Patrons cook chunks of seasoned garoupa fish on a charcoal clay brazier, stirring in chives and dill. The rich, oily stew is then spooned into bowls of vermicelli rice noodles and enlivened by the addition of shrimp sauce, fried peanuts, and pickled vegetables. The secret ingredient, if you believe the rumors, is two drops of an essence extracted from the perfume gland of the ca cuong beetle.
Details: about $5; 14 Cha Ca St., 011-84/4-825-3929.
By Patricia Schultz & The Staff, December 2003/January 2004 issue | Subscribe to the magazine
What you'll find in this story: dream destinations, top vacation spots, amazing places, trips around the world, exotic travel, India travel
Excerpted from 1,000 Places to See Before You Die, Copyright © 2003 by Patricia Schultz. Used by permission of Workman Publishing Co., Inc., New York. All Rights Reserved.
Tossing aside the obvious, we narrowed it down to the 10 that really got our motors running.
Jaisalmer Rajasthan, India
Known as the Golden City, this former caravan center on the route to the Khyber Pass rises from a sea of sand, its 30-foot crenellated walls and medieval sandstone fort sheltering carved spires and palaces. So little has changed here that it's easy to imagine yourself back in the city's early days, in the thirteenth century. Jaisalmer's wealth originally came from the heavy levies it placed on camel caravans passing through, and merchants and townspeople built handsome havelis (mansions elaborately carved from the local golden stone). It's the only fortress city in India still functioning, with one quarter of its population living within the original walls.
Details: Six hours by car from Jodhpur. Stay in the Narayan Niwas Palace, a former caravansary built by the maharaja in 1840. Doubles from $48 (low season) or $60 (high season); 011-91/29922-52408, fax 011-91/29922-52101, narayanniwas.com/.
Best times: October to February.
Highland games, Braemar, Scotland
Begun in the Middle Ages as county fairs for the exchange of goods and news, these summer sporting events gave clan chiefs the chance to check out the physical prowess of the area's most promising young lads. Of the nation's 40-some annual gatherings, the ones at Braemar are the most renowned. (Queen Elizabeth usually pops in from Balmoral Castle.) A breed of gigantic men--called the Heavies--engage in "throwing the hammer," "putting the stone," and the prime event, "tossing the caber"--in which they hurl a 20-foot tree trunk weighing over 130 pounds. Expect bagpipes, bright tartans, Highlands dancing, and a nip of whiskey to help things along.
Details: Held the first Saturday in September, in Braemar's Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park. Tickets are $20 to $36; 011-44/1339-755-377 (phone and fax), braemargathering.org/.
Giants Causeway
Bushmills, Antrim, Northern Ireland
The grand and astonishing Giant's Causeway--on the northern coast of the island--is made up of more than 40,000 volcanic basalt columns, each a foot or two in diameter. Most are hexagonal, but some have four or five sides, and others have as many as 10 (and reach as high as 40 feet). If modern-day visitors are struck with wonder at the sight, imagine the disbelief of the ancient Irish, who attributed the geological wonder to the fabled giant Finn McCool. The warrior was said to have created the Causeway as a bridge to his lady love on the Scottish island of Staffa. We now know it was formed by volcanic eruptions some 60 million years ago. Hopscotch along the columns, or marvel at the Causeway from the clifftop belvederes.
Details: 75 miles northwest of Belfast; 011-44/28-207-31855, fax 011-44/28-207-32537, northantrim.com/.
Moscow Metro, Moscow, Russia
Details: For information in the U.S., contact the Russian National Group, 212/575-3431, fax 212/575-3434, russia-travel.com/.
Cha Ca La Vong,
Hanoi, Vietnam
Cha Ca La Vong serves only one dish--cha ca, a succulent fried-fish masterpiece, the recipe for which has been in the Doan family for generations (the name translates roughly to "curried Red River fish"). After more than seven decades, cha ca became so entrenched in Hanoi that the city renamed the lane out front in its honor. A rickety flight of wooden stairs leads to the unremarkable second-floor dining room, full of equally rickety chairs. Patrons cook chunks of seasoned garoupa fish on a charcoal clay brazier, stirring in chives and dill. The rich, oily stew is then spooned into bowls of vermicelli rice noodles and enlivened by the addition of shrimp sauce, fried peanuts, and pickled vegetables. The secret ingredient, if you believe the rumors, is two drops of an essence extracted from the perfume gland of the ca cuong beetle.
Details: about $5; 14 Cha Ca St., 011-84/4-825-3929.
We have compiled a great deal of packing tips after years of travelling and together with some members suggestions, we thought we should share them with other travellers setting out.
1. Security and Keeping Details Safe
Scan your passport, passport photos and paper tickets (if not the e type) in. Store this (in an email for e.g.) in your web based email account. You can also store the details of your emergency 'lost card' telephone numbers in your web based email account so you know who to contact if your credit card or ATM card is lost or stolen. This way, even if you lose everything, you have immediate access your all important information. You can even email the details page of your passport to the embassy or consulate when applying for a new one. (Tip from a member)
Also consider writing your home and destination address (and mobile number if you have one) on a self-adhesive sticky label to stick INSIDE your luggage in a visible place. If your luggage is lost and the baggage label has come off, at least the airline can still figure out whose luggage it is. (Tip from a member)
2. Split up your valuables
Split up your bank cards, cash, travellers' cheques and credit cards as much as possible in different pockets, your bags and wallet when packing. In case you do get robbed, at least you won't be strapped for cash (unless you have all your bags AND your wallet stolen of course!).
3. Nalgene/Small Bottles
Use nalgene/small bottles to pack toiletries and other small items. There are several sturdy and (very nearly) waterproof ones, with clear/see through ones being preferable (easier for security purposes post August 2006). You can also use small bottles to repack shampoo or lotions so that you don't have to always carry a big bottle with you. This is especially useful if you normally take these items in your carry-on luggage, which as of early 2007 is much more restricted than before.
4. Backpack Tips
When you are packing things into a backpack, place the lighter items at the bottom and the heavier ones on top. Your bag will feel lighter this way as the pack rests on your lower back. It is also smart to place the things you use the most on top. Dirty clothes are perfect to pack at the bottom of a backpack. If you are still trying to decide on the right backpack, have a look at Choosing the right Backpack on our Travel Unravelled blog.
5. Plastic Bags
It is always handy to have a few plastic bags around certain items, especially toiletries. Not only does it counter any leaking, the bags can also come in useful to keep dirty clothes in, as garbage bags or even as a makeshift umbrella. Ziplock or other airtight plastic bags are the best.
6. Pack in Plastic
Pack everything in clear plastic bags (preferably zip lock), divided into items e.g. underwear, t-shirts, shorts etc. before packing in your suitcase or backpack. One plastic bag for each type of clothing. This is extremely useful in various ways. When you unpack your bag you just take out a series of bags and you can see immediately what you want. So an overnight stay somewhere just means taking 1 item out of a bag - no rummaging!! In addition, if you have to unpack at customs etc, instead of having to disgorge all your clothing etc out in front of everybody, you can calmly take maybe 5/6 bags out, the contents of which can be clearly seen by the officials. To repack then is also dead easy. Just be sure not to leave your plastic bags lying around if you are travelling in nature! (Tip from a member)
7. Clothes
Pack only what you know you will use and if you are travelling for more than three weeks, plan to wash on the road. You can cut back on the number of clothes items by packing multi-purpose clothing, for example items that can both be worn during the day and as sleepwear.
8. Split up clothes when travelling with others
When you are flying somewhere and especially if you have a few stopovers, divide the clothes between different suitcases/backpacks/bags etc. If one persons luggage doesn't arrive at the destination, they'll still have clean clothes available. Airlines generally don't compensate lost luggage for the first 24-48 hours so this will save you money if it happens to you. (Tip from a member)
9. Separate Beach Bag
When packing to head to the beach consider pre-packing whatever you might need at the beach into a beachbag inside your backpack or suitcase. Especially if travelling with kids, this will prove a timesaver!
10. Suitcase lovers
For those using suitcases without a divider. A piece of cardboard makes an excellent divider and helps keep your clothes organized and neat as you are able to lay them out flat on the cardboard. It also makes airport inspections a lot less of a hassle as you can lift out your divider with clothes on top easily.
11. Gifts
While it is a good idea to take some small gifts with you while travelling, pre-wrapping them can be a waste of time if you are flying and your bags are opened. (Tip from a member)
12. Flashlights or Torches
When packing a flashlight or torch (or any other item with batteries for that matter), turn the batteries around so that if the item is accidentally turned on, you won't empty the batteries. Don't forget to turn the batteries back around when using the flashlight.
13. Diaper Bag
If you are travelling with babies, then the diaper bag is an excellent place to hide your valuables. This most likely will not be the first thing to be stolen. It's also a great to use as a waste bag (even when not travelling with a child!), especially at places that do not allow you to flush toilet paper. (Tip from a member)
14. Shoes
If you want to make sure everything else in your bags stays clean and odor free, place the shoes inside old socks and then inside airtight plastic bags (ziplock).
15. Carry-On
Keep any medication and important papers in your carry-on bag. On long flights with multiple stopovers (especially if flying via London, LA or other major airports), packing a fresh change of clothes is a good idea as bags tend to get delayed or lost on long haul, multiple stop flights. You don't want to end up stuck without medication, clothes or your important papers even if it is just for a few days.
16. Roll Technique
Somehow it seems that bags will hold more if the clothes are rolled rather than folded. If you roll in tissue paper, the clothes will also get less wrinkled.
17. Travelling to warm destinations?
If you appreciate cold drinks think of using a six-pack cooler as a toiletry bag. Once you arrive at your destination and unload your toiletries your 'toiletry bag' guarantees cheap cold drinks on the beach, no matter how remote.
18. Local Tourism Offices
The best source of information is usually local. Check out Tourism Offices to find unbiased feedback on the best accommodation to suit your needs. Excercise caution in countries where you feel the information might not be so unbiased!
19. Minimize on toiletries
Take only half a tube of toothpaste rolled up tight, store shampoo in small containers, only take half a roll of toilet paper (for emergencies only) and crush it so the middle is folded.
20. Take solid shampoo bars and tooth powder
Solid shampoo bars and tooth powder (instead of tooth paste) can be easily located on the internet and make carry-on travel in this age of liquid restriction possible. Places like Beijing now bar all liquids in carry-on bags, and you'll still be able to breeze through without checking. (Tip from a member)
21. Planning on carrying a lot of luggage?
While carrying a lot of luggage is not recommendable, sometimes it is necessary in the case of relocations and so on. If you have the possibility, fly via the US as airlines will allow you 64kg (two 32kg bags) instead of the 20kg in the rest of the world. Even if it is just a stopover in the US, you will be allowed to carry the extra weight. Check with your local travel agent for the details.
22. Packing List and Trip Planning
1. Security and Keeping Details Safe
Scan your passport, passport photos and paper tickets (if not the e type) in. Store this (in an email for e.g.) in your web based email account. You can also store the details of your emergency 'lost card' telephone numbers in your web based email account so you know who to contact if your credit card or ATM card is lost or stolen. This way, even if you lose everything, you have immediate access your all important information. You can even email the details page of your passport to the embassy or consulate when applying for a new one. (Tip from a member)
Also consider writing your home and destination address (and mobile number if you have one) on a self-adhesive sticky label to stick INSIDE your luggage in a visible place. If your luggage is lost and the baggage label has come off, at least the airline can still figure out whose luggage it is. (Tip from a member)
2. Split up your valuables
Split up your bank cards, cash, travellers' cheques and credit cards as much as possible in different pockets, your bags and wallet when packing. In case you do get robbed, at least you won't be strapped for cash (unless you have all your bags AND your wallet stolen of course!).
3. Nalgene/Small Bottles
Use nalgene/small bottles to pack toiletries and other small items. There are several sturdy and (very nearly) waterproof ones, with clear/see through ones being preferable (easier for security purposes post August 2006). You can also use small bottles to repack shampoo or lotions so that you don't have to always carry a big bottle with you. This is especially useful if you normally take these items in your carry-on luggage, which as of early 2007 is much more restricted than before.
4. Backpack Tips
When you are packing things into a backpack, place the lighter items at the bottom and the heavier ones on top. Your bag will feel lighter this way as the pack rests on your lower back. It is also smart to place the things you use the most on top. Dirty clothes are perfect to pack at the bottom of a backpack. If you are still trying to decide on the right backpack, have a look at Choosing the right Backpack on our Travel Unravelled blog.
5. Plastic Bags
It is always handy to have a few plastic bags around certain items, especially toiletries. Not only does it counter any leaking, the bags can also come in useful to keep dirty clothes in, as garbage bags or even as a makeshift umbrella. Ziplock or other airtight plastic bags are the best.
6. Pack in Plastic
Pack everything in clear plastic bags (preferably zip lock), divided into items e.g. underwear, t-shirts, shorts etc. before packing in your suitcase or backpack. One plastic bag for each type of clothing. This is extremely useful in various ways. When you unpack your bag you just take out a series of bags and you can see immediately what you want. So an overnight stay somewhere just means taking 1 item out of a bag - no rummaging!! In addition, if you have to unpack at customs etc, instead of having to disgorge all your clothing etc out in front of everybody, you can calmly take maybe 5/6 bags out, the contents of which can be clearly seen by the officials. To repack then is also dead easy. Just be sure not to leave your plastic bags lying around if you are travelling in nature! (Tip from a member)
7. Clothes
Pack only what you know you will use and if you are travelling for more than three weeks, plan to wash on the road. You can cut back on the number of clothes items by packing multi-purpose clothing, for example items that can both be worn during the day and as sleepwear.
8. Split up clothes when travelling with others
When you are flying somewhere and especially if you have a few stopovers, divide the clothes between different suitcases/backpacks/bags etc. If one persons luggage doesn't arrive at the destination, they'll still have clean clothes available. Airlines generally don't compensate lost luggage for the first 24-48 hours so this will save you money if it happens to you. (Tip from a member)
9. Separate Beach Bag
When packing to head to the beach consider pre-packing whatever you might need at the beach into a beachbag inside your backpack or suitcase. Especially if travelling with kids, this will prove a timesaver!
10. Suitcase lovers
For those using suitcases without a divider. A piece of cardboard makes an excellent divider and helps keep your clothes organized and neat as you are able to lay them out flat on the cardboard. It also makes airport inspections a lot less of a hassle as you can lift out your divider with clothes on top easily.
11. Gifts
While it is a good idea to take some small gifts with you while travelling, pre-wrapping them can be a waste of time if you are flying and your bags are opened. (Tip from a member)
12. Flashlights or Torches
When packing a flashlight or torch (or any other item with batteries for that matter), turn the batteries around so that if the item is accidentally turned on, you won't empty the batteries. Don't forget to turn the batteries back around when using the flashlight.
13. Diaper Bag
If you are travelling with babies, then the diaper bag is an excellent place to hide your valuables. This most likely will not be the first thing to be stolen. It's also a great to use as a waste bag (even when not travelling with a child!), especially at places that do not allow you to flush toilet paper. (Tip from a member)
14. Shoes
If you want to make sure everything else in your bags stays clean and odor free, place the shoes inside old socks and then inside airtight plastic bags (ziplock).
15. Carry-On
Keep any medication and important papers in your carry-on bag. On long flights with multiple stopovers (especially if flying via London, LA or other major airports), packing a fresh change of clothes is a good idea as bags tend to get delayed or lost on long haul, multiple stop flights. You don't want to end up stuck without medication, clothes or your important papers even if it is just for a few days.
16. Roll Technique
Somehow it seems that bags will hold more if the clothes are rolled rather than folded. If you roll in tissue paper, the clothes will also get less wrinkled.
17. Travelling to warm destinations?
If you appreciate cold drinks think of using a six-pack cooler as a toiletry bag. Once you arrive at your destination and unload your toiletries your 'toiletry bag' guarantees cheap cold drinks on the beach, no matter how remote.
18. Local Tourism Offices
The best source of information is usually local. Check out Tourism Offices to find unbiased feedback on the best accommodation to suit your needs. Excercise caution in countries where you feel the information might not be so unbiased!
19. Minimize on toiletries
Take only half a tube of toothpaste rolled up tight, store shampoo in small containers, only take half a roll of toilet paper (for emergencies only) and crush it so the middle is folded.
20. Take solid shampoo bars and tooth powder
Solid shampoo bars and tooth powder (instead of tooth paste) can be easily located on the internet and make carry-on travel in this age of liquid restriction possible. Places like Beijing now bar all liquids in carry-on bags, and you'll still be able to breeze through without checking. (Tip from a member)
21. Planning on carrying a lot of luggage?
While carrying a lot of luggage is not recommendable, sometimes it is necessary in the case of relocations and so on. If you have the possibility, fly via the US as airlines will allow you 64kg (two 32kg bags) instead of the 20kg in the rest of the world. Even if it is just a stopover in the US, you will be allowed to carry the extra weight. Check with your local travel agent for the details.
22. Packing List and Trip Planning
Source: travellerspoint
This Thai Grilled Salmon features a wonderful blend of the 'four big Thai tastes': spicy, salty, sweet and sour. Made with fresh herbs and spices, this salmon simply sings with flavor while never overwelmoing the naturally delicious flavor of the fish. The marinade is a variation of traditional Thai 'magic paste' - a special blend of fresh herbs and spices that will simply 'wow' your tastebuds. It works beautifully with salmon as well as other types of fish. If you enjoy true Thai flavors, give this dish a go! Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: SERVES 2-3 as a Main Entree
Ingredients:
- 2-3 salmon fillets or steaks
- MARINADE:
- 1/2 cup chopped coriander/cilantro, leaves and stems
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/2 tsp. ground white pepper (OR whole white peppercorns if using pestle & mortar)
- 1+1/2 Tbsp. fish sauce
- 2 Tbsp. coconut oil OR other vegetable oil
- SIDE SAUCE/CONDIMENT:
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 Tbsp. chopped coriander/cilantro
- 1/2 tsp. ground white pepper
- 3-4 cloves garlic
- 2 Tbsp. fish sauce
- 1-2 chilies (Serrano or Jalapeño), OR ¼ to ¾ tsp. dried crushed chili (chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp. soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp. brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp. coconut milk
Preparation:
- Place all 'marinade' ingredients in a food processor or mini chopper. Process well to create a fragrant Thai spice paste (a pestle & mortar can also be used to make this paste).
- Rinse salmon pieces and pat dry. Place a bowl and slather the marinade/paste all over the fish, ensuring all surfaces are covered. Marinate 10 minutes or up to 24 hours.
- To make the side sauce, simply combine everything together in a cup, stirring well to dissolve the sugar. Then taste-test it, looking for a tangy flavor that is a balance between sweet, sour, spicy and salty. Add more lime juice if too salty or sweet for your taste. If too spicy, add more coconut milk. Set aside.
- Heat up your grill and brush with a little vegetable oil. Grill the salmon, allowing each piece to cook several minutes before disturbing/turning (this will prevent flesh from tearing). Baste the first time you turn it with some of the leftover marinade. Salmon is cooked when inner flesh is no longer translucent.
- Serve the salmon with rice or salad, plus the sauce on the side (note: this sauce is usually served at room temperature).