How and When To Make Humour at Work!
by: Lionel Estridge
A good laugh will do wonders for you as smiling and laughing lowers your stress levels, wins you a friendly reputation, and helps your usually tense co-workers and bosses to relax. Humour on the job will do a lot for your career, but there are a number of things you need to know about laughter and humour in the place of work. Feeling good and having humour in our lives can do wonders for our position and productivity, which means that there is definitely a place for some humour on the job. Having a smiling face will help your co-workers and supervisors feel better being around you, and you may well end up reaping rewards by laughing more in the workplace. But you need to know how to apply humour in your work environment. Laughing has been proven to be a huge stress reliever, letting you feel better and becoming more productive. To be able to loosen up and have some fun is great, so why not take that approach to work each day and lighten up around the work place? Smiling can make your job easier, more than ever if you work in customer service or sales. But there's certainly a right and incorrect way to use humour in the workplace. One of the main rules with humour in the workplace is to avoid controversy when you are joking on the job. Stay well away from joking about political affairs, race and religion. Sex is another unsafe topic because of sexual harassment in the workplace. Make sure that you stay well within the lines of decency. Never make fun at other people within your organization, as you are trying to win friends with the people you work with, and not set against them. If you can't help yourself, please be extremely careful. Poking fun at the work you do or the industry you work in is a good way to earn some smiles from your co-workers and supervisors. While these types of workplace jokes may not be so funny at home or with friends, as they really don't appreciate the pressures of your employment, the people who are around you in your job will definitely appreciate the humour about their frustrations and will be able to laugh over the situations instead of complaining. Making jokes about the ups and downs of your trade is a safe way to add wit to the place of work. You will have the benefit of knowing precisely what your co-workers have to face each and every day, and it's much better as it helps to let go of tensions and lower stress levels by getting them to chuckle about the situations they come across frequently. The very best time for some humour is when you are not working, but still in the region of the people you work with, such as a coffee or lunch break. You can also make an effort to be funny on the job, but when you are working, it's a good idea to use jokes much more thinly than you would normally do. In general, humour in the workplace is a superb area to flex your creative muscles and give your job a little boost. Humour in the workplace helps stress levels to drop, and your co-workers will feel better about working with you. Start gradually, and add a few more safe jokes here and there to incite a few smiles. Everyone will feel better because of your efforts.
Mau Uang ?.....................................
Thursday, February 28, 2008
ह्यूमर....
How and When To Make Humour at Work!
by: Lionel Estridge
A good laugh will do wonders for you as smiling and laughing lowers your stress levels, wins you a friendly reputation, and helps your usually tense co-workers and bosses to relax. Humour on the job will do a lot for your career, but there are a number of things you need to know about laughter and humour in the place of work. Feeling good and having humour in our lives can do wonders for our position and productivity, which means that there is definitely a place for some humour on the job. Having a smiling face will help your co-workers and supervisors feel better being around you, and you may well end up reaping rewards by laughing more in the workplace. But you need to know how to apply humour in your work environment. Laughing has been proven to be a huge stress reliever, letting you feel better and becoming more productive. To be able to loosen up and have some fun is great, so why not take that approach to work each day and lighten up around the work place? Smiling can make your job easier, more than ever if you work in customer service or sales. But there's certainly a right and incorrect way to use humour in the workplace. One of the main rules with humour in the workplace is to avoid controversy when you are joking on the job. Stay well away from joking about political affairs, race and religion. Sex is another unsafe topic because of sexual harassment in the workplace. Make sure that you stay well within the lines of decency. Never make fun at other people within your organization, as you are trying to win friends with the people you work with, and not set against them. If you can't help yourself, please be extremely careful. Poking fun at the work you do or the industry you work in is a good way to earn some smiles from your co-workers and supervisors. While these types of workplace jokes may not be so funny at home or with friends, as they really don't appreciate the pressures of your employment, the people who are around you in your job will definitely appreciate the humour about their frustrations and will be able to laugh over the situations instead of complaining. Making jokes about the ups and downs of your trade is a safe way to add wit to the place of work. You will have the benefit of knowing precisely what your co-workers have to face each and every day, and it's much better as it helps to let go of tensions and lower stress levels by getting them to chuckle about the situations they come across frequently. The very best time for some humour is when you are not working, but still in the region of the people you work with, such as a coffee or lunch break. You can also make an effort to be funny on the job, but when you are working, it's a good idea to use jokes much more thinly than you would normally do. In general, humour in the workplace is a superb area to flex your creative muscles and give your job a little boost. Humour in the workplace helps stress levels to drop, and your co-workers will feel better about working with you. Start gradually, and add a few more safe jokes here and there to incite a few smiles. Everyone will feel better because of your efforts.
by: Lionel Estridge
A good laugh will do wonders for you as smiling and laughing lowers your stress levels, wins you a friendly reputation, and helps your usually tense co-workers and bosses to relax. Humour on the job will do a lot for your career, but there are a number of things you need to know about laughter and humour in the place of work. Feeling good and having humour in our lives can do wonders for our position and productivity, which means that there is definitely a place for some humour on the job. Having a smiling face will help your co-workers and supervisors feel better being around you, and you may well end up reaping rewards by laughing more in the workplace. But you need to know how to apply humour in your work environment. Laughing has been proven to be a huge stress reliever, letting you feel better and becoming more productive. To be able to loosen up and have some fun is great, so why not take that approach to work each day and lighten up around the work place? Smiling can make your job easier, more than ever if you work in customer service or sales. But there's certainly a right and incorrect way to use humour in the workplace. One of the main rules with humour in the workplace is to avoid controversy when you are joking on the job. Stay well away from joking about political affairs, race and religion. Sex is another unsafe topic because of sexual harassment in the workplace. Make sure that you stay well within the lines of decency. Never make fun at other people within your organization, as you are trying to win friends with the people you work with, and not set against them. If you can't help yourself, please be extremely careful. Poking fun at the work you do or the industry you work in is a good way to earn some smiles from your co-workers and supervisors. While these types of workplace jokes may not be so funny at home or with friends, as they really don't appreciate the pressures of your employment, the people who are around you in your job will definitely appreciate the humour about their frustrations and will be able to laugh over the situations instead of complaining. Making jokes about the ups and downs of your trade is a safe way to add wit to the place of work. You will have the benefit of knowing precisely what your co-workers have to face each and every day, and it's much better as it helps to let go of tensions and lower stress levels by getting them to chuckle about the situations they come across frequently. The very best time for some humour is when you are not working, but still in the region of the people you work with, such as a coffee or lunch break. You can also make an effort to be funny on the job, but when you are working, it's a good idea to use jokes much more thinly than you would normally do. In general, humour in the workplace is a superb area to flex your creative muscles and give your job a little boost. Humour in the workplace helps stress levels to drop, and your co-workers will feel better about working with you. Start gradually, and add a few more safe jokes here and there to incite a few smiles. Everyone will feel better because of your efforts.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Indonesia Q
Travelling Indonesia
Entering Indonesia
Passports
Religion
Travelling Tips Electricity & Water
Entering IndonesiaNationals of Israel will be refused entry unless they have applied to the Immigration Office in Indonesia, prior to travelling, to obtain a special permit.
Passports
Passport valid for at least six months from date of entry required by all.
VisasThe Indonesia Minister of Justice and Human Rights has announced that the VISA on ARRIVAL (VoA) will be introduced on February 01, 2004 for foreign visitors arriving by air in Jakarta (SOE-HAT), Bali (Ngurah Rai), Medan (Polonia), Manado (Sam Ratulangi), Surabaya (Juanda), and Padang (Tabing), as well as sea ports of Batam, Tanjung Priok, Belawan, Jayapura, Benoa, and Tanjung Perak. In short VoA eligible visitors will pay an entry fee upon arrival.
The Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) is required for nationals of 20 countries and one Administrative District:
The nationals of the United States of America, Australia, South Africa, Argentina, Brazil, Denmark, the United Arab Emirates, Finland, Hungary, United Kingdom, Italy, Japan, Germany, Canada, South Korea, Norway, France, Poland, Switzerland, New Zealand, Taiwan, Austria, Belgium, Egypt, India, Ireland, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Maldives, People's Republic of China, Portugal, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia and Spain will be able to apply for a VoA valid for either 3 or 30 days upon arrival in Indonesia. A 7-day visa will cost $USD10 while a 30-day visa will cost $USD25.
The 11 countries that retain visa-free status and need not purchase a VoA are: Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Macao, Chile, Morocco, Peru, and Vietnam.
Citizens of countries not on the VoA or Visa Free lists are required to apply for a visa at the nearest Indonesian embassy, consulate or foreign mission.
Process for Obtaining a Visa on Arrival (VoA)
Visitors from countries with Visa-On-Arrival status will go to new 'VoA Counters' to have their passports stamped with the on-arrival visa before going to the Immigration Clearance Desk. An official bank will be attached in the VoA counters. Payment can only be made in US dollar bank notes or Indonesian Rupiahs equivalent. Payment by Credit-Card is under discussion and to be determined. In the bigger airports, like Jakarta and Bali, several rows of VoA counters will be provided.
Overstaying your Visa? - DON'T!
Overstaying a tourist visa (or any visa) is a serious offence in Indonesia. Fines, blacklisting, confinement and deportation are all possible penalties for infractions. Please take this seriously! If you inadvertently overstay your visa go immediately to an immigration office, once you realize it, and explain the circumstances. Delaying the report will only make the situation worse. There are only a few 'legitimate' reasons for overstay - the main one being inability to travel due a verified illness or injury. Also beware of the 30-day counting trap! Immigration officials count the 30-day period as: you arrive on the 1st day with a 30-day VoA, and you must leave on the 30th day (not the 31st day or the first of the next month etc.)
Indonesia is a tropical country, and the climate is fairly even all year round. There is no such thing as an Autumn or Winter, the year being roughly divided into two distinct seasons, 'wet' and 'dry'.
The East Monsoon, from June to September brings dry weather while the West Monsoon, from December to March, brings rain. The transitional period between these two seasons alternates between gorgeous sun-filled days and occasional thunderstorms.
Even in the midst of the wet season temperatures range from 21 degrees (70�F) to 33 degrees Celcius (90�F), except at higher altitudes which can be much cooler. The heaviest rainfalls are usually recorded in December and January. Average humidity is generally between 75% and 100%.
CurrencyIndonesian money is Rupiah (Rp) = 100 sen. Notes are in denominations of Rp100,000, 50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5000, 1000, 500 and 100. Coins are in denominations of Rp1000, 500, 100, 50 and 25.
$1.00 = Rp 8,722.00
�1.00 = Rp 16,286.00
About Indonesia
Population 245,452,739 (July 2006 est.)
0-14 years: 28.8% (male 35,995,919/female 34,749,582)
15-64 years: 65.8% (male 80,796,794/female 80,754,238)
65 years and over: 5.4% (male 5,737,473/female 7,418,733) (2006 est.)
total: 26.8 years
male: 26.4 years
female: 27.3 years (2006 est.)
Religion Muslim 88%, Protestant 5%, Roman Catholic 3%, Hindu 2%, Buddhist 1%, other 1% (1998)
Travelling Tips
Indonesia runs 127V AC/50Hz but is in the process of converting to a 230V AC/50Hz. This conversion is complete in principal cities. Indonesia uses a type C,F, and G plug so North Americans travelling with electronics will need adapters.
It is not advisable to drink tap water in Indonesia, but bottled mineral water is safe and available everywhere. Ice in drinks is generally OK in good standard hotels and restaurants but it is best to avoid it on street stalls or in country areas.
ClothingWith temperatures ranging between 20-35�C, light, casual clothes are the most practical. Natural fibres like cotton or linen are the most comfortable in Indonesia's often humid conditions. Casual clothes are acceptable in most places and a lightweight suit and tie are usual for business or formal meetings. Light cotton dresses are generally acceptable in most situations. Batik is popular for both men's shirts and women's dresses.
CommunicationsTelephone
IDD is available to main cities. Country code: 62 (followed by 22 for Bandung, 21 for Jakarta, 61 for Medan and 31 for Surabaya). Outgoing international code: 00. Many hotel lobbies have public phones which take credit cards and phone cards. State-operated phone booths (WARTEL), which work on a pay-as-you-leave basis, can be found throughout the country. For emergencies, dial 110 (police) or 118 (ambulance for traffic accidents) or 119 (ambulance for general health) or 113 (fire department).
Mobile telephone
GSM 900 and 1800 networks. Coverage may be limited to main towns and cities.
Fax
Faxes can be sent and received from WARTEL shops.
Internet
There are Internet cafes in all major cities and tourist destinations.
Telegram
These can be sent from any telegraphic office; in Jakarta facilities are available 24 hours a day, but services outside Jakarta are less efficient.
Post
Airmail to Western Europe takes up to 10 days. Internal mail is fast and generally reliable by the express service (Pos KILAT), but mail to the outer islands can be subject to considerable delays.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Tips
20 Tips For Planning A Successful African Safari Vacation
by: Lovemore N'Cube
When planning a Safari, the starting point is to think about the time of year you wish to travel; the anticipated duration of your trip; the type of accommodation you prefer; your budget and any special interests you wish to pursue. The more we know about your aspirations for the trip the easier the planning. Before even contemplating the different safari areas and the camps/lodges within them, it is helpful to consider the broader context within which the safari areas exist. The first question to ask your self is whether you want the high end exclusive safari destination or a low cost destination. This immediately helps to focus on specific countries, for instance if you are looking for the high end market you may start focusing on Botswana or Namibia, if you are looking for bargain safaris, you may want to focus on South Africa, Zambia or Zimbabwe. By comparing the relative strengths between countries, your choice is further narrowed. The final step is to compare the safari areas within specific countries to decide which is/are most likely to provide the safari experience that you are looking for. In this article I will highlight the most important factors that you need to take into consideration or think about when planning a safari. I intend to write some sequels focusing in detail on the safari options in different southern African countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
1. Do some research Start by reading articles or books about African safaris and the ‘big five’ Visit tour operator and travel agency websites to compare information. Make sure as part of your research you get a safari video to have a preview of what to expect. Safari videos are available at http://www.savannasafaris.com/ and other safari operator websites. Through your research you will decide if you will go for a packaged tour or a self drive or a combination of both.
2. Cost of a Safari Various factors play a role in one's choice of safari destination and, for most people, cost is one of the many criteria that influence this important decision. The explanation for cost differences between safari destinations, and between camps/lodges within the same areas, is multi-faceted and complicated. The safari market in southern Africa is highly competitive and driven by supply and demand; for instance, right now, Zimbabwe safaris are at a bargain because of the low demand resulting from the political and economic crisis in the country and the uncertainty as to whether or not the general elections coming in March 2008 will be peaceful. It is important to note that in most cases the cost of a safari excludes international flights to/from Africa; visas; passports; vaccination costs; excess baggage charges; optional excursions; spending money; tips; local and airport taxes.
3. Game Concentration For most people, an African safari is not complete when they do not see the big five – elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and leopard. These animals are concentrated at different places. Please be aware that your trip might bring you into close contact with these wild animals, which can be a threat to your safety and your health. Many of the safari camps are unfenced and particular care must be taken. It is essential that you always follow the advice of your guides, do not walk out on your own and do not touch any plants, animals or insects. You should understand the risks involved and take responsibility for your own safety. Please note that most safari lodges will require you to sign a personal indemnity form and you must be prepared to sign these.
4. Camp/lodge experience. The level of style and luxury in accommodation, the quality of food and service, facilities and amenities are all important factors to consider when planning a safari. The more expensive properties invariably excel in these elements of the overall experience.
5. Wilderness and exclusivity. As a rule, the larger and more private the concession /reserve, the higher the premium. Botswana (where private concessions are typically 100,000 acres or larger) is the most prominent example of this model of 'low volume / high value' eco-tourism. Zambia is an 'emerging' safari destination heading towards this model.
6. Remoteness. The further from civilization a camp/lodge, the more expensive it is to supply and operate, and the higher the access costs for guests. Zambia's three major National Parks are very different and fairly far removed from each other. This makes a Zambian safari a very diverse experience, but travel costs are a little higher than in Botswana for example. Namibia, home to some of southern Africa's most remote camps, is perhaps the most pronounced example of this type of safari.
7. Convenience. Camps/lodges with private airstrips that are close to camp offer increased convenience due to shorter transfer times between the airstrip and camp. This means less time in transit and more time on safari or relaxing. Such airstrips, in addition to being expensive to build and maintain, are desirable to guests and attract a premium.
8. Political situation. The biggest factor influencing the discounted rates in Zimbabwe is the negative perception surrounding the government of Robert Mugabe. Without doubt this regime has had a very negative impact on the lives of local Zimbabweans but, as a safari destination for foreign visitors, it is still a good deal destination.
9. Passports & visas. A full passport is essential and must be valid for at least six months after your return. Generally, visas are not required in South Africa and Botswana for United States and United Kingdom passport holders. Visas are required for Zimbabwe and Zambia. For detailed information about visas you can go to http://www.savannasafaris.com/
10. Insurance. It is a condition of booking for most safari tours that all passengers have insurance cover. Your insurance should be fully comprehensive and include 24-hour emergency medical cover and repatriation along with general cover for travel cancellation and theft of valuables and personal items.
11. Health. You should consult your doctor at least six weeks prior to travel. If guests have any medication requirements an adequate supply should be brought from home, as it might not be available locally. Anti-malaria medication is essential. It is recommended that visitors bring plenty of insect repellent and sun cream.
12. Safety & security. In general, people in Africa have an enviable reputation for being friendly and welcoming. Along with most countries around the world, mugging can be a problem in certain towns and it is advisable that you do not walk at night unless you know the area well. If you are driving yourself it is sensible to arrive at your destination before dark as a myriad of animals enjoy lying on the roads at night. It is always sensible when traveling to take precautions against theft. By far the best precaution is to avoid taking valuables with you on holiday. If you do carry valuables ensure you are discreet. Do not leave any valuables or luggage unattended in a vehicle, unless in a locked trunk.
13. Clothing. The dress code at all of the camps and lodges is casual and there is no requirement to dress for dinner. We recommend that you wear neutral colors with a good pair of lightweight walking boots for game walks. Evenings are generally spent around a campfire, so a lightweight jumper is advisable. Early morning and night game drives can get very cold, particularly in June/July, so it is recommended that you bring a warm jacket and woolly hat. During the heat of the day a shady hat is essential. A long sleeved shirt and long trousers offer a degree of protection from mosquitoes.
14. Fitness levels. There is generally no fitness requirement for safaris. On walking safaris the walks are slow and gentle, although the ground is often uneven. Game drives can be bumpy at times and might be uncomfortable for people with back problems.
15. Luggage limits. A luggage limit applies for light aircraft transfers between camps. Soft bags are recommended for these flights. You will normally be advised of the requirements (if any) at the time of booking.
16. Travel in Africa. Part of what makes Africa so special is that it is very different from Europe and the USA. Please accept that things do not always happen the way you would normally expect and you must be prepared to adapt your arrangements as necessary. Whilst tour operators make every effort to ensure that your trip goes smoothly it is recommended that you be patient and understanding, accepting a degree of uncertainty and enjoying Africa as it is.
17. Climate. Although local weather conditions vary, the main weather patterns are the same throughout Southern Africa. Evenings and early mornings can get quite chilly, particularly between May and August. October can be extremely hot and humid (although this is the best time for game viewing as animals congregate around the remaining water). The rainy season is normally between November and March.
18. Currency. The local currencies in the major safari destination countries are the Zambian Kwacha, the Botswana Pula, South African Rand, Namibian Dollar, Mozambican Metical and the Zimbabwean Dollar. Tourists are expected to use US Dollars in camps, lodges and hotels. For local shopping for souvenirs and sundries you will need local currency. Banks will generally exchange US Dollars, English Pounds, Euros and US Dollars are required for visas purchased at the border posts (take the correct amount as any change will be given in local currency). In most of these countries, especially Zimbabwe, there are black market currency dealers. Changing currency in the black market is illegal, and you can be robbed of your money and valuables. Always ask your hotel staff about exchanging currency.
19. Time. Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique, Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa are all 2 hours ahead of GMT.
20. Memories Get a journal book, camera or camcorder to document your experiences. Happy safari planning and enjoy the unspoiled African wild! Lovemore N’Cube, Travel Consultant
by: Lovemore N'Cube
When planning a Safari, the starting point is to think about the time of year you wish to travel; the anticipated duration of your trip; the type of accommodation you prefer; your budget and any special interests you wish to pursue. The more we know about your aspirations for the trip the easier the planning. Before even contemplating the different safari areas and the camps/lodges within them, it is helpful to consider the broader context within which the safari areas exist. The first question to ask your self is whether you want the high end exclusive safari destination or a low cost destination. This immediately helps to focus on specific countries, for instance if you are looking for the high end market you may start focusing on Botswana or Namibia, if you are looking for bargain safaris, you may want to focus on South Africa, Zambia or Zimbabwe. By comparing the relative strengths between countries, your choice is further narrowed. The final step is to compare the safari areas within specific countries to decide which is/are most likely to provide the safari experience that you are looking for. In this article I will highlight the most important factors that you need to take into consideration or think about when planning a safari. I intend to write some sequels focusing in detail on the safari options in different southern African countries, including South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
1. Do some research Start by reading articles or books about African safaris and the ‘big five’ Visit tour operator and travel agency websites to compare information. Make sure as part of your research you get a safari video to have a preview of what to expect. Safari videos are available at http://www.savannasafaris.com/ and other safari operator websites. Through your research you will decide if you will go for a packaged tour or a self drive or a combination of both.
2. Cost of a Safari Various factors play a role in one's choice of safari destination and, for most people, cost is one of the many criteria that influence this important decision. The explanation for cost differences between safari destinations, and between camps/lodges within the same areas, is multi-faceted and complicated. The safari market in southern Africa is highly competitive and driven by supply and demand; for instance, right now, Zimbabwe safaris are at a bargain because of the low demand resulting from the political and economic crisis in the country and the uncertainty as to whether or not the general elections coming in March 2008 will be peaceful. It is important to note that in most cases the cost of a safari excludes international flights to/from Africa; visas; passports; vaccination costs; excess baggage charges; optional excursions; spending money; tips; local and airport taxes.
3. Game Concentration For most people, an African safari is not complete when they do not see the big five – elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and leopard. These animals are concentrated at different places. Please be aware that your trip might bring you into close contact with these wild animals, which can be a threat to your safety and your health. Many of the safari camps are unfenced and particular care must be taken. It is essential that you always follow the advice of your guides, do not walk out on your own and do not touch any plants, animals or insects. You should understand the risks involved and take responsibility for your own safety. Please note that most safari lodges will require you to sign a personal indemnity form and you must be prepared to sign these.
4. Camp/lodge experience. The level of style and luxury in accommodation, the quality of food and service, facilities and amenities are all important factors to consider when planning a safari. The more expensive properties invariably excel in these elements of the overall experience.
5. Wilderness and exclusivity. As a rule, the larger and more private the concession /reserve, the higher the premium. Botswana (where private concessions are typically 100,000 acres or larger) is the most prominent example of this model of 'low volume / high value' eco-tourism. Zambia is an 'emerging' safari destination heading towards this model.
6. Remoteness. The further from civilization a camp/lodge, the more expensive it is to supply and operate, and the higher the access costs for guests. Zambia's three major National Parks are very different and fairly far removed from each other. This makes a Zambian safari a very diverse experience, but travel costs are a little higher than in Botswana for example. Namibia, home to some of southern Africa's most remote camps, is perhaps the most pronounced example of this type of safari.
7. Convenience. Camps/lodges with private airstrips that are close to camp offer increased convenience due to shorter transfer times between the airstrip and camp. This means less time in transit and more time on safari or relaxing. Such airstrips, in addition to being expensive to build and maintain, are desirable to guests and attract a premium.
8. Political situation. The biggest factor influencing the discounted rates in Zimbabwe is the negative perception surrounding the government of Robert Mugabe. Without doubt this regime has had a very negative impact on the lives of local Zimbabweans but, as a safari destination for foreign visitors, it is still a good deal destination.
9. Passports & visas. A full passport is essential and must be valid for at least six months after your return. Generally, visas are not required in South Africa and Botswana for United States and United Kingdom passport holders. Visas are required for Zimbabwe and Zambia. For detailed information about visas you can go to http://www.savannasafaris.com/
10. Insurance. It is a condition of booking for most safari tours that all passengers have insurance cover. Your insurance should be fully comprehensive and include 24-hour emergency medical cover and repatriation along with general cover for travel cancellation and theft of valuables and personal items.
11. Health. You should consult your doctor at least six weeks prior to travel. If guests have any medication requirements an adequate supply should be brought from home, as it might not be available locally. Anti-malaria medication is essential. It is recommended that visitors bring plenty of insect repellent and sun cream.
12. Safety & security. In general, people in Africa have an enviable reputation for being friendly and welcoming. Along with most countries around the world, mugging can be a problem in certain towns and it is advisable that you do not walk at night unless you know the area well. If you are driving yourself it is sensible to arrive at your destination before dark as a myriad of animals enjoy lying on the roads at night. It is always sensible when traveling to take precautions against theft. By far the best precaution is to avoid taking valuables with you on holiday. If you do carry valuables ensure you are discreet. Do not leave any valuables or luggage unattended in a vehicle, unless in a locked trunk.
13. Clothing. The dress code at all of the camps and lodges is casual and there is no requirement to dress for dinner. We recommend that you wear neutral colors with a good pair of lightweight walking boots for game walks. Evenings are generally spent around a campfire, so a lightweight jumper is advisable. Early morning and night game drives can get very cold, particularly in June/July, so it is recommended that you bring a warm jacket and woolly hat. During the heat of the day a shady hat is essential. A long sleeved shirt and long trousers offer a degree of protection from mosquitoes.
14. Fitness levels. There is generally no fitness requirement for safaris. On walking safaris the walks are slow and gentle, although the ground is often uneven. Game drives can be bumpy at times and might be uncomfortable for people with back problems.
15. Luggage limits. A luggage limit applies for light aircraft transfers between camps. Soft bags are recommended for these flights. You will normally be advised of the requirements (if any) at the time of booking.
16. Travel in Africa. Part of what makes Africa so special is that it is very different from Europe and the USA. Please accept that things do not always happen the way you would normally expect and you must be prepared to adapt your arrangements as necessary. Whilst tour operators make every effort to ensure that your trip goes smoothly it is recommended that you be patient and understanding, accepting a degree of uncertainty and enjoying Africa as it is.
17. Climate. Although local weather conditions vary, the main weather patterns are the same throughout Southern Africa. Evenings and early mornings can get quite chilly, particularly between May and August. October can be extremely hot and humid (although this is the best time for game viewing as animals congregate around the remaining water). The rainy season is normally between November and March.
18. Currency. The local currencies in the major safari destination countries are the Zambian Kwacha, the Botswana Pula, South African Rand, Namibian Dollar, Mozambican Metical and the Zimbabwean Dollar. Tourists are expected to use US Dollars in camps, lodges and hotels. For local shopping for souvenirs and sundries you will need local currency. Banks will generally exchange US Dollars, English Pounds, Euros and US Dollars are required for visas purchased at the border posts (take the correct amount as any change will be given in local currency). In most of these countries, especially Zimbabwe, there are black market currency dealers. Changing currency in the black market is illegal, and you can be robbed of your money and valuables. Always ask your hotel staff about exchanging currency.
19. Time. Zambia, Namibia, Mozambique, Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa are all 2 hours ahead of GMT.
20. Memories Get a journal book, camera or camcorder to document your experiences. Happy safari planning and enjoy the unspoiled African wild! Lovemore N’Cube, Travel Consultant
Motorcycle
10 Points To Check Before Buying A Motorcycle
by: Timothy Rudon
Buying a new or used motorcycle is serious business. It needs thought and careful selection.
A motorbike is sacred to many and just a vehicle to some. However no motorcycle buyer should be without a check list that will help him or her make a great selection.
10 musts before paying for a motorcycle:
1. Check it out and do so with a motorcyclist friend in tow.
Check if the motorcycle is clean and straight down centerline and forks.
2. Take along a list of models and their pros and cons.
Discuss the nuances with the friendly sales person.
3. Find out about gears, brakes, clutch, and all other mechanics.
4. Determine engine specifics and details of gas tank and wheels.
5. Ask about service and warranties.
6. Get details of accessories and other musts like helmets, rear view mirrors and so on.
7. Sit on a lot of bikes to get a feel of height and riding position.
8. Read up on bikes in discover Today’s Motorcycling.
Get all the information on types of ikes, financing, bike care and more.
9. If you are new to motorcycles choose a light-weight bike rather than the coolest,
sexiest bike that only pros can ride. New riders should aim for a four-cylinder of less than
600 cc or 75- cc for sports machines and 150cc for everyday use.
10. Ask about safety gear and budget for this too in the cost of the motorcycle.
Use pants, helmet, gloves, and jacket meant for motorcycling.
All motorcyclists must consider safety and reliability.
Get a valid motorcycling license and insurance too.
Be wise and take a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course see: http://www.msf-usa.org/ . Refer to magazines like beginner Bikes magazine for recommendations on good starter bikes. According to dedicated bikers, a good choice of a motorcycle for a beginner would be Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Buell Blast. Choose a bike that suits you and not one that looks good on the cover of a magazine. The rule of thumb is the motorcycle and its rider must fit like hand in glove. Test ride the motorcycle and get a feel. A large part of selecting a motorcycle is comfort and instinct. So choose a motorcycle with care so that you get long hours of riding as well as comfort and safety. Never buy a bike on first sight or visit. Take your time in making a selection. Visit the many motorcycle websites on the internet and comparison shop. Find out what offline prices of motorcycles are and compare features as well as prices, service contracts, and warranties. Many people find that the best deals are available on the internet. Others feel a motorcycle must not be bought without viewing and test riding. So get all your thoughts and options in order before you make a choice.
http://tinyurl.com/6swff8
by: Timothy Rudon
Buying a new or used motorcycle is serious business. It needs thought and careful selection.
A motorbike is sacred to many and just a vehicle to some. However no motorcycle buyer should be without a check list that will help him or her make a great selection.
10 musts before paying for a motorcycle:
1. Check it out and do so with a motorcyclist friend in tow.
Check if the motorcycle is clean and straight down centerline and forks.
2. Take along a list of models and their pros and cons.
Discuss the nuances with the friendly sales person.
3. Find out about gears, brakes, clutch, and all other mechanics.
4. Determine engine specifics and details of gas tank and wheels.
5. Ask about service and warranties.
6. Get details of accessories and other musts like helmets, rear view mirrors and so on.
7. Sit on a lot of bikes to get a feel of height and riding position.
8. Read up on bikes in discover Today’s Motorcycling.
Get all the information on types of ikes, financing, bike care and more.
9. If you are new to motorcycles choose a light-weight bike rather than the coolest,
sexiest bike that only pros can ride. New riders should aim for a four-cylinder of less than
600 cc or 75- cc for sports machines and 150cc for everyday use.
10. Ask about safety gear and budget for this too in the cost of the motorcycle.
Use pants, helmet, gloves, and jacket meant for motorcycling.
All motorcyclists must consider safety and reliability.
Get a valid motorcycling license and insurance too.
Be wise and take a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course see: http://www.msf-usa.org/ . Refer to magazines like beginner Bikes magazine for recommendations on good starter bikes. According to dedicated bikers, a good choice of a motorcycle for a beginner would be Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Buell Blast. Choose a bike that suits you and not one that looks good on the cover of a magazine. The rule of thumb is the motorcycle and its rider must fit like hand in glove. Test ride the motorcycle and get a feel. A large part of selecting a motorcycle is comfort and instinct. So choose a motorcycle with care so that you get long hours of riding as well as comfort and safety. Never buy a bike on first sight or visit. Take your time in making a selection. Visit the many motorcycle websites on the internet and comparison shop. Find out what offline prices of motorcycles are and compare features as well as prices, service contracts, and warranties. Many people find that the best deals are available on the internet. Others feel a motorcycle must not be bought without viewing and test riding. So get all your thoughts and options in order before you make a choice.
http://tinyurl.com/6swff8
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