Preflight preparation isone of the most important aspects of combating jet lag. Before leaving, be sure you have all your affairs, personal and professional, in order. Avoid late farewell parties, so that you are not tired or hungover from a function the night before. Participate in regular exercise in the days prior to departure and if possible try to avoid exposure to people with flu or colds. Get a full night of sleep just prior to departure.

There is evidence that jet lag is less acute on eastward rather that westward flights, as it is easier to force oneself to stay up later than normal than it is to fall asleep earlier than normal. Daytime flights cause less jet lag than overnight flights, which is why the latter are called “red-eye” flights. Due to cramped seating and ambient noise, don’t expect to get a good night’s rest on one of these flights.

Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids, since the dry air in airplanes causes dehydration. Water is better than coffee, tea and fruit juices. Alcoholic drinks are a poor choice for combating dehydration, and demonstrate a markedly greater intoxicating effect when consumed in the rarefied atmosphere of an airliner compared to ground level.

A blindfold, neckrest or blow-up pillow, and ear plugs can help you get quality sleep while flying. If there are some spare seats on the flight, lay across them, since it easier to fall asleep laying flat than sitting propped up.

Get up and exercise frequently. Walking up and down the aisle, standing for short periods, and doing twisting and stretching exercises in your seat reduces discomfort from swollen legs and feet, and prevents potentially deadly Deep Vein Thrombosis. On long flights,get off the plane if possible at stopovers, and take a short walk around the airport. As far back as 1988 the Lancet report estimated “that over three years at Heathrow Airport, 18% of the 61 sudden deaths in long distance passengers were caused by clots in the lungs.” These clots originate in leg veins where blood pools and coagulates due to passenger immobility.

There are many products purported to prevent or cure jet lag. One of them is melatonin, a hormone produced naturally by the body to produce sleepiness. Another product, No-Jet-Lag, has been proven effective in a scientific trial of round-the-world passengers and confirmed by longhaul flight attendants in a test conducted in cooperation with their union. Since it is a homeopathic preparation using extremely low dosages, No-Jet-Lag has no side effects and is compatible with other medications.

If you plan to use melatonin, it is important to take it at the right time or it may make matters worse. When traveling east, on the day of the flight, take one dose of melatonin between 6 and 7 p.m. your time. On the day of arrival and for the next four days, take a dose of melatonin at bedtime (between 9 and 10 p.m.) local time of your new location. If you are on a stopover and will be traveling further east, take one dose of melatonin on the day before flying onward, again between 6 and 7 p.m. local time, instead of at bedtime). On the day of arrival at the final destination, take one dose of melatonin at bedtime (local time) and for the next four days.

For westward travel, melatonin will not help if you are going less than five time zones to the west. For distant westward travel, on the day of arrival, take one dose of melatonin at local time bedtime and continue to do so for the next four days. If you wake up before 4 a.m., take a little more melatonin (half a dose) to get a complete night’s sleep. Dissolve this dose under the tongue, if possible, so it will be more fast-acting.

Sleeping pills are not advisable, especially on the plane. They produce a drugged state which has little in common with natural sleep, and suppress natural body movement, not desirable in a cramped environment where the risk of DVTs is already high. Many over-the-counter sleeping pills are anti-histamines which tend to dehydrate the mucous membranes, creating a parched, sore throat when combined with the already dehydrating atmosphere inside the airplane.

Hopefully these tips will help you arrive at your destination awake and energetic.

The post How To Avoid Jet Lag first appeared on iTravel Agent.

There are lots of companies that claim to specialise in boutique hotels. For many, a boutique hotel is simply one that’s not part of a national or international chain and that distinguishes itself by its design, location or additional features. Many hotels aspire to be a boutique hotel without actually achieving it. Overall, there are four main elements to the true boutique hotel:

Size

Large hotels can be cool, trendy and chic, but they can’t be boutique. Just as the word is used to describe small, design-led specialist shops, so it applies to hotels. Hotels that apply the term “boutique” to themselves or have it ascribed to them are usually small – certainly less than 50 rooms and in some cases with only one or two. Their size contributes to the atmosphere and service that characterises a hotel with a difference. Whilst size might count in terms of the number of rooms, it doesn’t follow that those rooms must also be small. In fact, a hotel than could easily accommodate 20 rooms might choose instead to create just ten, but make them spacious and luxurious, catering to the boutique market.

Design

When the first boutique hotel was opened in New York in 1984, by hotel entrepreneurs Ian Schrager and Steve Rubell, it was praised for its original design and quirky nature. Designed for those who really wanted to participate in their travel rather than passively take it all in, Morgans, and those that followed it, challenged the way we thought about hotels. Although Schrager would not now describe his hotels as boutique, the name has been applied to those hotel who followed in his footsteps as far as design is concerned. From clean and contemporary to themed rooms and classic elegance, a boutique hotel must have a clear design theme and attention to detail.

Service

The hallmark of an excellent boutique hotel is its service. Whether the hotel chooses to assign a personal butler to each guest, or just hires and trains staff to anticipate your every need, the service at a boutique hotel is really what it should be at any hotel: ensuring that your stay goes without a hitch, that you can get transport, opera tickets or excellent meals when you want them and making you feel at home rather than feeling like you’re a nuisance.

Boutique hotels are scattered all over the world, from 24-hour cities like New York, London and Rio De Janeiro to island havens in the Indian or Pacific Oceans. What often sets them apart are the buildings that contain them. From former plantation houses to old textile mills, towers and palazzos, the type of building often forms the basis of the design and it is the blend of architecture, design and service that turns what could be just another hotel into a boutique one.

The post What Makes A Hotel Boutique first appeared on iTravel Agent.

First class travel is on a very comfortable seat that can be termed as the ‘Bed in the sky’. Yes, it is true! It is possible to recline that seat on all angles to give you the comfort needed while you sleep. The head rest can be tilted to various positions to suit your posture. You get more space and leg room while you travel in first class. A vertical partition is also available that gives you the privacy needed during your travel.

Sockets to attach your laptop and telephones with satellite connection are available to communicate with anybody you wish. Video monitors and video players with multiple channel options are available for the first class travelers.

Most of the international airlines provide these facilities for the first class travelers. The food that is served is also prepared by reputed chefs and is of international quality. Some airlines provide even pre-dining facilities so that you can have your dinner even before you board the flight so that you have lot of time to sleep in the flight. This facility is available in the night flights.

Some of the airlines provide online check-in facility for first class travel so that you can check in before you arrive at the airport. This avoids the need to stand in the queue to check in. It saves a lot of time for you. First class passengers are allowed to take more luggage. As a first class passenger you have a separate lounge which can be used before you board your flight and while you are waiting for you flight. Facilities to have a luxurious bath and have delicious cuisines are also available for the first class passenger. Some lounges have even libraries to pass your time by reading through some latest books. For those who would like to have a drink there are bars and some lounges even have massage parlors. Some of the bars also have wireless internet access so that you can browse or check your emails while you are at the bar.

To get more information on the facilities that are offered do check the website of the airlines. Why don’t you try this out at least once in your life?

The post The Luxuries Of First Class Travel first appeared on iTravel Agent.

Entertainment

One of the greatest things about Las Vegas, Reno and Atlantic City (but especially Las Vegas) is the number of shows that are available. You can get to watch top class comedians like Jay Leno, Jerry Seinfeld, Ray Romano, Tim Allen and even the likes of Bill Cosby and Chris Rock. If you are into music you can watch female singers like Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and Beyonc?, male performers like Phil Collins, Eric Clapton, Snoopy Dog and bands like Oasis and Bon Jovi. I could go on and on but the list is endless. If you are into magic you can watch magicians like David Copperfield do their thing meters from you. Whatever you like, you can find it here from Western music to oldies to Jazz, Rock, Heavy Mettle to Trance. All you have to do is look at the itenary offered during your visit.

Food

Chinese to Japanese to Korean to Jewish and even Vegetarian and proper meat eating establishments await your every delight in Vegas. Do not opt for the cheap and oily fried dishes served for free while you play. Stop a while and take in the delightful scenery and smells of East Asian or European dishes. What is wondrous is that you get to see man’s ability to mix. A real melting pot if I may say so myself.

But is that all what casino cities like Las Vegas are about? Do you have to remain in the city to really and truly enjoy your stay?

No.

Here are some of the better attractions you must see on your visit to Vegas.

Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon

Book yourself a seat on any of the many sightseeing tours available and go and watch the architectural marvel that is Hoover Dam built over the Grand canyon which is also a grand sight to see by itself. Black Canyon is another must see as is Lake Mead which is so beautiful just because it is a body of water all surrounded by desert-like nature.

Colorado River

While looking at the Dam and Canyon is from above, to see the true beauty of the river, you have to go down. The Colorado river is excellent for river-rafting and water sports, but you do not have to take part if it is not your thing. Instead just sit back and enjoy another of nature’s marvels.

Bonnie Springs

Who can not resist going to one of the old towns like those in the Western gun slinging movies? Your destination needs to be Old Nevada. There you can delight in an old western town right in the middle of Red Rock Canyon. They host western shootouts too so come prepared, partner!

I could go on and on about other attractions like the theme park in Circus Circus, the Gilcrease Nature Sanctuary, the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve and Mt. Charleston but I think you get the picture. In Las Vegas and hate gambling? Do not despair. Just go out and have some clean un-gambling fun.

The post How To Have A Fun Non Gambling Vacation In Las Vegas first appeared on iTravel Agent.

1. Taking a ride on the Star Ferry across the harbour is something to definitely experience. It is wonderful to see the people who have made a life on the harbour fishing and existing in the middle of the city. There is also an incredible floating restaurant on the harbour where you can experience wonderful culinary delights.

2. Taking the tram to the top of Victoria Peak is also something to experience if you have made the effort to go all the way to Hong Kong.

The pollution is something to experience in itself and going to the peak would best be done before it gets too bad if you wish to see the sights. Often though even if the view is bad, there are a couple of lads who will take your picture and superimpose it on a picture of what you would have seen on a clear day – quite fun !

3. Ocean Park is a full-blown amusement park. There is a popular Dragon Roller Coaster, Ferris wheel and other white knuckle rides. There is a marine park with a Shark Aquarium that will interest the younger visitors to Hong Kong.

You will also see a traditional Chinese style village where street fairs add exciting colour to the whole atmosphere.

4. Wong Tai Sin is the most well-known and temple in the city and is also the busiest. The temple is a stunning example of a traditional Chinese temple. What stood out to me when I visited was the temple was the clouds of smoke and the intense smell from the incense sticks that the visitors were burning. The Chinese believe that by burning these sticks that they will have good fortune. It is a free to visit the temple (donations are welcome).

5. Yuen Po Street Bird Market. There are hundreds of exotic birds in equally exotic cages as buying a bird appears to be a business matter in Hong Kong. People spend hours with these birds and I was informed that customers will only buy a bird if the bird chooses them. It is considered to be bad luck to purchase a bird that is not happy as the birds happiness is of utmost importance to Hong Kongians.

6. If you are a shopaholic then a visit Stanley Market is a must. You will be able to pick up bargains for a fraction of the price the are sold for in town. This is a goo time to mention not to buy anything from a shop in the main city that does not have a name / board of the shop front. Shopkeepers in these shops may well take your money and tell you that they do not have the goods in stock. They then take your hotel details and promise to bring the items that you have paid for to your hotel and guess what? They don’t.

Repulse Bay is the most famous beach in Hong Kong, apparently so named because the British army had seen off some pirates in olden times! This is a popular destination for the Chinese people and can become so packed that there is no room to sit!

November is the best time to go if you want to avoid the rush and the temperature is still a comfortably warm 70 degrees.

The post Top Things To See During A Vacation In Hong Kong first appeared on iTravel Agent.

1. Consider purchasing a seat for your toddler.

Although you are allowed to fly with your child in your lap, this may not be the most comfortable for you or your child. This will allow you a little more mobility and will make your child more comfortable.

2. Bring games and toys that will keep your toddler entertained.

Include a portable DVD player so your child can watch their favorite movies during the long flight. This will help keep your toddler occupied.

3. Food on airplanes is usually limited.

Bring along some nutritious snacks for your child to keep them from getting hungry. Include some milk, natural juices, fruit, cheese and crackers. Don’t give your child sugary snacks like sodas and candy. Excessive sugar can make your toddler feel over stimulated.

4. Make sure you have spare diapers and a change of clothes for your child.

Remember to bring along zip bags for soiled diapers and dirty clothes. Your fellow passengers will appreciate your containing any offensive odors.

Your child may begin to annoy passengers if he does not behave well on the trip. There is the possibility that you might be seated near someone who loves children and may even try to assist you in finding ways to entertain your child. But then there’s the likelihood that someone will be seated near you who is easily annoyed by children and not at all tolerant. Whatever the case, you want to be polite to your neighbor. Acknowledge your child’s behavior and assure them that you are doing everything possible to control your child.

Flying with your toddler can be stressful, but good preparation such as bringing along necessities for entertainment and nutrition can help to calm your child and make the flight more enjoyable for you, your child and your fellow passengers.

The post Tips For Air Travel With Your Toddlers first appeared on iTravel Agent.

1. Plan Ahead

Do your research. Make sure the campground you’ve chosen is a safe one. Make sure there are no current fire dangers. Check out the weather. Any health alerts in the area, such as dangerous bacteria count in the water, or outbreak of any rodent-carrying viruses?

2. Pack an Emergency Kit

Be prepared for cuts, bee stings and allergic reactions. Bring antihistamines, antiseptic, bug sprays and insect repellents, pain relievers, bandages, sunscreen and if possible, a snake-bite kit.

An emergency kit should also include the following items: Whistle, flashlight, compass, a small Swiss Army knife, razor blades, tweezers, magnifying glass, sterilized water packets for cleaning wounds, emergency blanket, thermometer, cold pack, and a mirror. A mirror can be helpful when signaling for help. Some people also use a CD. If you can afford them, a pair of night-vision goggles can also be a help in an emergency.

3. Arrive at the Campsite Early

Arriving early, with ample daylight, allows you to examine the entire campsite and set up while there’s still light. Be on the lookout for sharp objects, broken glass, huge ant beds, branches, poison ivy, hazardous terrain and bees.

4. Build your Tent on a Safe Spot

Make sure your tent is flame-resistant and keep it at a safe distance from the campfire. Try to pitch your tent on elevated land so it doesn’t flood in case of rain. In order to keep the bugs out, make sure you close your tent immediately upon entering and leaving.

5. Go Over Safety Issues with Family Members

Make sure family members are aware of poisonous plants in the area. Be sure the children understand that they should never drink from any stream or river, regardless of how clean it may look. Finally, issue each member of your family a whistle for emergency use only.

6. Be Fire Safe

Make sure there are no current fire restrictions before building any fire, and don’t build a fire if there are strong winds. When you do build a fire, keep it in the fire ring, and make sure there are no flammable items near the fire. Do not use heating devices or candles inside the tent.

Never leave your campfire unattended, and keep the area clear of leaves and twigs. Before going to bed, make sure the campfire is property put out by drowning it with water.

7. Be Aware of Wild Animals

Be sure to familiarize yourself and your family with safety concerning wild animals. Wild animals have acute senses of smell. Make sure you keep your campsite clean and free of food or garbage which might attract them. It is best to store all food, garbage and strong-smelling items (such as soap or toothpaste) in bear-resistant containers or your vehicle. Keep your sleeping bag and tent completely free of food and food odors, and set up your cooking and eating area at least 100 yards from your tent. Do not go to sleep in the same clothing you cooked in, as even the cooking smells can attract bears and other wild animals.

While it may seem like attention to safety takes the fun out of camping, in reality it helps ensure that your camping vacation is a fun time for the whole family. And, isn’t having fun the point of camping?

The post Top Camping Safety Tips first appeared on iTravel Agent.

If you are looking for that perfect romantic weekend for two, look no further than the top ten romantic weekends away below!

1. Sorrento

Located on the Bay of Naples, Sorrento is a haven for couples that want to inject a bit of romance back into their lives. It is a popular location for couples choosing to get married abroad, which exemplifies the loving atmosphere of the city. There are quaint restaurants, guided tours and architectural gems to visit. Bellevue Syrene Hotel Sorrento has excellent facilities and unbridled luxury for couples wanting a special weekend away together.

2. Hawaii

Hawaii is an extremely beautiful state of America, with plenty to see and do. The culture is different, lifestyle is extremely relaxed, and most tourists are drawn into this lazy atmosphere. The fantastic little eateries combined traditional Hawaiian food with modern delights – perfect for a romantic dinner for two! The Maui Seaside Hotel is just one of the great places you can stay, and the restaurant in that hotel is a delight for the senses!

3. Monaco

Unlike other romantic weekend breaks, the romantic air around Monaco is concentrated on glamour and money. The air of opulence inspires romance due to activities such as boat trips in the harbour, shopping in exclusive boutiques and sunbathing on beautiful beaches. The hotels mirror the wealth of the country too. Columbus Hotel Monaco is just one of them that provide top quality facilities that allow you to live in the lap of luxury for the weekend.

4. Venice

There is nothing like taking a gondola on the canals of Venice to inject romance and passion into a relationship. Venice is a beautiful city that offers excellent facilities to shop and sightsee. There are also many cafes and restaurants that provide excellent food and romantic candlelit meals for two. It is a popular destination with couples for that reason. The San Clemente Palace specializes in romantic weekends with great hospitality and luxurious suites for couples.

5. Paris

Paris is the capital of romance largely as a result of the French attitude to love. For example, the Four Seasons Hotel George V offers luxury suites designed for romancing your partner and will book tours and restaurants for couples wanting the best out of their romantic weekend. The whole city has an air of romance that is very rare and is a favourite resort for lovers as a result. A couple can eat in the best restaurants, takes boat trips on the Seine, visit museums and take strolls through the city. There is plenty to do, but every activity only seems to be worthwhile if you share it with a loved one.

6. Madrid

As a city dominated by the Renaissance, Madrid is extremely romantic. There are gorgeous old buildings with breathtaking architecture to feast your eyes on and explore. It is also a centre for the arts, especially the opera and poetry, which is enough to ignite anyone’s passions. The Vincci Soho Hotel is just one of the many hotels you can choose from, most of which actually offer high quality service whilst respecting your privacy.

7. Malta

Malta is an extremely old country with much of its original architecture intact. It has a host of markets, parades and eating places to help you sample the culture. The natural beauty of the country combined with its rural, friendly nature gives love a chance to blossom without distractions. The Corinthia Marina Hotel in St George’s Bay has a view of the sea and exhibits that beauty perfectly.

8. Killarney

Killarney in Ireland may not sound romantic but is the perfect setting for a romantic weekend for two. It is labelled the most beautiful region in Ireland because it offers spectacular natural scenery that should be enjoyed with a loved one. It is a quaint area, unlike the bustling city of Dublin, that allows you to focus your attentions on the one you are with when you visit. A stay at the Victoria House Hotel will you give you the best of both worlds – nature on one side and the city on the other.

9. Marseille

Located in the South of France, Marseille effectively combines the old with the new generation societies. There are beaches, tours of the city and excellent little cafes to sample. The city is a haven for romance because the lifestyle is unhurried and the relaxing atmosphere gives you time to bask in the attentions of your partner. Hotels offering apartments rather than rooms, like the Citadines Prado Castelanne Apart Hotel, also give you the privacy you need to enjoy the break.

10. Florence

As far as culture is concerned, Florence has it all. The architecture, art and opera all serve to heighten your passionate stay. Little cafes litter the streets and provide good food for any couple to enjoy, and the specialist shops serve to make the city appear exclusive to its visitors. The President Hotel, for example, can also give you that impression. It is luxurious, which is just what you need when going on a romantic weekend for two!

Any of the places listed above can help to inject a little romance into your life. They all allow you to relax and rediscover what is really important. So can you really afford to miss out on a perfect romantic weekend for two?

The post Top 10 Romantic Vacation Destinations first appeared on iTravel Agent.