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Cultural Tours In and Around Mexico City

There are various cultural tours offered in and around Mexico City that give visitors the exciting opportunity of immersing themselves into Mexico’s rich history and culture. Going on these tours not only allows you to explore beautiful sights and sceneries, it will also be a thoroughly educational experience that will open your eyes to the different aspects of Mexico.

As derived from a brief survey of all the cultural tours offered by local companies, there are several key places within and around Mexico City that serve as the highlights of many of these cultural tours. Within Mexico City, two such places would be the Coyoacan district and San Angel. The former is known for its colonial past, and its rich architecture is testament to this past. Several famous attractions within the Coyoacan district include the Frida Kahlo House, which showcase some of the famous artist’s works, as well as the Leon Trotsky Museum, in honour of the famous would-be leader of the Soviet Union. San Angel, meanwhile, is also known for its intricate, traditionally Mexican architecture. Here, you can find numerous markets and galleries featuring beautiful pieces of Mexican art.

The Basilica de Guadalupe is a famous attraction within Mexica City. It is famous for the cult of the Virgin of Guadalupe. It is a charming church with an architecture that will please and inspire you. San Miguel de Allende is another important historical and cultural centre in Mexico. It was established in 1542 and plays an important role on Mexico’s past. Its colonial architecture and charming local markets make it a quaint and attractive place to visit.

The Teotihuacan Pyramids is also a popular tourist attraction often included in cultural tours. These are ancient Aztec pyramids whose grandeur and history will take your breath away. The archeological site of Xochicalco is also featured in many tours. It is not only an archeological site; it also used to be an important ancient town. The world-famous Chichen Itza, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another frequently-visited location. Here, you have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view ancient Mayan temples in all their restored glory. Definitely, most of the cultural tours in and around Mexico City will appeal to aspiring archeologists, historians and anthropologists.

Other cultural tours allow visitors to hop onto a train and have it bring you from one cultural highlight to another. These trips are range from four days to a week and provide you with a different option when deciding how to explore Mexico. It will also allow you to visit more far-off places such as Creel, the trade centre of the local Indian tribes, as well as Mexico’s famous copper canyon.

Save Money on Your Mexico Vacation – What to Know Before You Go

Mexico is a popular destination for weekend or week-long vacations. It offers a change of pace and is just a quick flight away. If you are planning a trip to Mexico, there are several ways that you can cut costs. In fact, if you follow several of these tips, you may even be able to extend your vacation because of the money you’ve saved.

The first tip has to do with when you choose to travel. A lot of people like to visit Mexico during the Christmas and Easter seasons. These are considered peak times for Mexican tourism, and the hotel owners and other travel vendors know this. There is so much demand that they can raise their prices and still have people clamoring to get bookings.

If you choose to travel at a different time, you can generally get much better rates. Even traveling right after these peak times can result in an instant and significant reduction in travel prices. You’ll find major discounts on accommodations in the late spring and early summer. During these times of the year, the tourist spots will be much less crowded and you may even enjoy your vacation more.

You can also save a lot of money by doing a bit of research yourself and planning your own trip. Depending on your travel style and preferences, paying for all-inclusive tours or staying at an all-inclusive resort may actually result in higher costs. Tour companies may add surcharges above and beyond what independent tourists pay for the same food or services. You may even have more fun by traveling independently and picking where you want to go. There are so many guidebooks out there and good resources on the Internet that you can easily be quite familiar with your destination before you arrive.

Another tip for lowering your travel costs is to find out if your destination is a cruise ship port. If it is, you’ll want to avoid doing any major shopping or tourist activities during cruise ship days. On the days that the cruise ship docks, prices for certain things in the port city can sometimes increase. If you’re going to be visiting during a cruise ship day, plan a low cost activity like a beach day or visiting a museum.

Before you go, you will also need to get familiar with the exchange rate so you can put your spending into perspective. Generally, you can count on one dollar equaling 10 pesos, but make sure to double check that fact when you arrive. Take a small calculator and convert the money on it a few times for practice in your hotel before you venture out to the marketplaces. This way, you’ll know exactly how much you are paying for the things that you buy in your terms.

You should become familiar with the local tipping customs, too, so you make sure to properly pay the people you should and not pay the people you shouldn’t. For example, cab drivers normally don’t expect tips, but it is customary to tip grocery store baggers. Familiarizing yourself with these types of customs can really help you budget and save.

You will also want to check the major travel sites for coupon codes or promotions. When you book flights and hotels together, you can often save. And some online travel sites will occasionally discount Mexico trips still further during specific times of the year. Do an online search for a coupon code before you book to make sure you get the best deal available.

Cancun Mexico Vacations – A Great Place To Get Away

Mexico is home to some of the most fascinating and beautiful beaches in the world. Aside from that, it is also popular for its activities and celebrations that reflect the abundance of Mexican culture. One of the most popular ways to experience this firsthand is with Cancun Mexico vacations. Yes, there are other vacation sites in Mexico such as Acapulco, Huatulco, Isla Mujeres, Ixtapa, Cozumel, etc, but there is something unique and special about Cancun, Mexico.

Cancun is one of the most favorite tourist destinations in Mexico for many different reasons. It is a perfect place for people who are active and fun loving. Thousands of vacationers take Cancun Mexico vacations every year because it is so popular with its nightlife, water adventure sports like scuba diving, snorkeling and parasailing, discos, entertainment bars, shopping malls, and others. The place is almost like a one stop shop as it offers a remarkably wide variety of options to the visitors.

An interesting fact about Cancun is that in the past it used to be just a deserted place. With time, we can’t really tell what happens next.

A vacation to Cancun takes the visitor to some of the most popular places to see. A typical Cancun tour allows you to witness and experience Paradise Island, the well known dancing dolphins in the turquoise blue Caribbean, the Atlantis Submarine, and of course the Mayan ruins. Tours to ecological parks, jungles, or natural reserves are also included to widen the knowledge of the visitors and at the same time to leave them enthralled by these sights and sites.

While it is true that there are thousands of places to go and enjoy some leisure time away from it all, Cancun Mexico vacations are a good idea to give some serious consideration to. With everything the area has to offer you can be assured of a great time.

Viva La Mexico – On a Budget!

If you are craving a trip to Mexico, but you are among the thousands effected by a tough economy, breath easy because Mexico is a prime destination to have a blast even on a budget!

Mexico is known for its beautiful beaches and rich culture. Budget friendly options are endless. So no matter what your financial situation is, once you get to Mexico you will be pleased to discover that Mexico is affordable for just about anyone. Getting there doesn’t have to break the bank either.

If you are close enough, you may want to consider simply driving over the border. If driving or taking the greyhound isn’t an option, saving on airfare is very important. Many airlines have greatly reduced the airfare in efforts to fill the seats. The key to getting the best airfare is booking early and frequently checking to see if there are better offers available…at which time you simply switch to the better option. If time isn’t on your side don’t fret. There are many different packages available. With the help of the internet, finding a great deal is often simple and easy. Depending on your location, you may also be surprised to discover that your own local travel agent may have vacation packages that include airfare, as well as your accommodations. There are also cruises that run through Mexico.

At some point even the biggest party animal has to sleep. If you are staying with friends or family then you will automatically save money. However, if you need to make arrangements for your housing, then you may find that a package deal is most beneficial to those on a budget. There are other means of inexpensive housing, such as camping, but if you are looking for a hotel environment, then look for one with a package deal. A travel package can save you a considerable amount of money, so shop around and find the best deals that fit your needs.

Avoid expensive restaurants, especially in trendy nightclubs and other famous resorts. Instead, take advantage of the many outdoor street markets. The food is great, delicious, and a true taste of Mexican culture; not to mention, it is also easy on your wallet.

Shopping in grocery stores is another way to save money while visiting Mexico. By eating the local produce, you will save money and have more to enjoy for your other vacation expenses. Make sure to peel and wash all fruits and vegetables before eating them. Also, keep in mind that items like soup can even be prepared in a coffee pot.

Getting around doesn’t have to be expensive either. Mexico buses are a very cheap way to travel. If you need information regarding bus schedules, times, and whether or not you will need a ticket, check with locals during your stay. However, as a safety precaution, you are encouraged not to ride in any taxis that haven’t been prearranged through either the airport or your resort.

As you can see planning a Mexico vacation on a budget isn’t that difficult. By saving on transportation and accommodations, you’ll have enough to enjoy the beautiful beaches and culture that Mexico offers with ease. Viva La Mexico!

Discount Mexico Vacations – What You Should Know

Everybody deserves a break from the usual things we do at work and in our homes month after month. Vacations are the best solution to unwind and chill after being too stressed from the usual hustle and bustle of life. It is the best way to get away, relax and recharge. And one of the better ways of doing this is with discount Mexico vacations.

If you want to go on a vacation, but you have not chosen the best place where you will indulge yourself with a vacation spree, you may want to visit Mexico for your vacation. You will leave the country, but there is no overseas traveling needed. Just cross that boarder and you will soon be in paradise.

Mexico has several captivating beaches and stunning seashores. You will have a really good time when you travel to Mexico and you will discover the beauty and pride of the country at the same time. You do not have to worry about the cost of your vacation since you can avail yourself of several discount Mexico vacation packages. You can find the cheapest packages that will suite your budget and your dream vacation.

Discount Mexico vacations are available through travel agencies, where you can find assistance in finding the most affordable way to explore the Mexican beach and historical sites as well as scenic views. The Internet is another great place to find vacations at a good discount.

You can find tourist hot spots in a cheaper way compared to the usual price being paid for a vacation in Mexico. Discount Mexico vacations are within your reach you when you know where exactly to start looking for them. By taking your time you will undoubtedly find your best deal and have a great time.

Adventure Travel – US, Mexico Border Tour

Are you into adventure travel? Well, many of us are, and I have friends who have been all over the world and done some incredible things while on an adventure vacation. Some have gone to the ends of the earth, others have climbed mountains, and still others have gone to Third World nations to help the local populations there. There are so many great things you can do to see the world, and experience it as very few people ever do.

Yes, it does cost quite a bit of money to get heavy into adventure travel, but it is well worth it. Sometimes if you go with a small group and divide the costs you can end up saving a lot of money, meaning you can go more often and do even more things. Still, there is lots of adventure travel to do here the United States, and there are ways to do it on the cheap. Are you looking for something really fun to do in the United States, and get a little bit of education while on an adventure tour? If so, maybe I have a good recommendation for you.

There was a very good article recently on Homeland Security News titled “New Business: Guided Border Tours” posted in the Border Security section on their website on May 31, 2011. The article stated that since so many citizens are interested in what is going on at the US-Mexico border there are now guided tours sponsored by Arizona based company Gray Line;

“Is the “Border Crisis: Fact and Fiction” tour is the result; the guided tour takes passengers to various points along the Arizona part of the U.S.-Mexico border; the trips will be offered twice a month, or upon request for large groups; the all day tours, which include lunch, cost $75 per person”

You see, so many of us are caught up in the media, and the political rhetoric going back and forth that we have no idea what’s really going on our nation’s borders. But maybe you should find out, and see for yourself, after all it doesn’t appear to be that much money.

Yes, you’ll have to pay for your hotel room in Tucson, but it’s not an expensive city to visit in the first place. And for $75 per person, this sounds like an interesting education in a very current event. Indeed I hope you will please consider all this and think on it. If you do end up going on this vacation, I hope you will shoot me an e-mail and tell me all about it for a future article.

Best Adventure Travel Websites

It would be a good idea to refer to some of the best adventure travel websites if you wish to embark on an adventure tour. There are some adventure travel sites at our finger tips, which we could suggest for you to consider when you plan your trip.

Best travel directory has been nominated as the best adventure travel company by the National Geographic Adventurer Magazine. The top 10 best selling trips are to Antarctica, Egypt, Peru, Jordan, South Africa, Costa Rica, Thailand, China, Australia and India. There is a destination of the week and free trips to be won.

National Geographic is one of the best adventure travel sites. It presents the best in adventure travel and ecotourism, complete with descriptions of destinations and photos. Get acquainted with the researchers and their projects. Right now you can choose from the best of American adventures or 20 Family Adventure travels. It is often difficult to plan a vacation that pleases all the members of your family. With the help of experts, you can do just that and have a marvelous holiday, no matter what you’re looking for – culture, wildlife, or just pure relaxation. You could check out the 50 best American adventures, or go on a hiking trail.

About.com lists 21 top adventure travel companies, which present an interesting collection of adventure trips like biking in Morocco or rafting through the Grand Canyon. The websites of each company has a list of its adventure trips, with its itineraries, prices and photos to give you a ‘feel’ of the adventure. They include geographic expeditions, mountain travel, ecotourism and nature trips, rafting and so on.

The organizers of Gap Adventures seem to promise a lot – they wish to take you off the beaten path to come face to face with the unexpected and meet the extraordinary. They intend to make your travel dreams come true, and their only aim is to do their best to give you the very best in every sphere of your journey. Gap Adventures does not believe that an adventure trip must be costly; they try their best to keep the prices competitive and concentrate on delivering tours that you remember for a lifetime. With 1000 trips in the seven continents, there’s a Gap Adventure trip for everyone!

Horizons Unlimited is a site just for motor cyclists. This is a place where all the motorbike enthusiasts share their experiences and plan their trips. Horizon Unlimited has quite a few mad adventures lined up for these riders, who think nothing of whizzing off to seemingly impossible destinations on their two wheelers. This site wishes to share all your mad capers across the continents.

Adventure Travel in Canada

Occupying most of North America, Canada is the world’s second largest country in terms of area. Its fusion of British, French and indigenous Canadian influences give this country its diverse and multicultural nature which attracts so many travellers every year.

Perhaps Canada’s most outstanding attractions are its unrivalled natural beauty and spectacular wilderness. From the dominating rocky mountains to the gorgeous Banff and Jasper National Parks.

So from up and coming cities, to wilderness that’s ideal for spotting bears and other such wildlife, Canada really does offer an abundance of adventure holiday options and experiences, some of which are detailed below.

1. Horse riding in British Columbia – Follow game trails, cross rivers, and enjoy open-air lunches with the world’s best views. There are sweeping vistas, turquoise green glaciers, snow caves, and abundant wildlife including mountain goats, Bighorn sheep, Mule deer, moose, wolf, Grizzly and Black bear. Travel mountain-top passes and experience wide U-shaped valleys with their mosaic of wildflowers, wild hay meadows and big-game mineral licks.

2. See polar bears in Churchill – Churchill, the ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’, is the only human settlement where Polar Bears can be observed in the wild and it lies right in the bears migratory path. This is perhaps the ultimate in adventure travel in Canada.

3. Spot whales, porpoises and dolphins – In the summer months the wildlife is prolific here with June to August being exceptional months for sighting Humpback Whales, Orcas, Dall’s Porpoise and Pacific White-sided Dolphins.

This is just the tip of the iceberg, for more adventure travel in Canada you’ll have to travel there to experience it for yourself!

Ethiopia Adventure Travel Tips

In November 2010 my husband and I travelled around Ethiopia for 3 weeks by public bus with our private guide Samson Wolde. Travel (especially bus travel) is a real adventure and not for the faint hearted as there is long travel days (even longer if the bus breaks down) on poorly maintained roads. But it is an excellent way to get up close and personal and experience the life and culture of the locals.

Addis Ababa
We arrived at the airport at 3.30am. We had not booked any accommodation due to our early arrival so we stayed at the aiport till about 7am. A taxi agreed to take us into the city for USD$10. We went to the Ras Hotel where we had to wait till 9am to see if they had a room.
Travel Tip: We stayed at the Ras Hotel 3 times due to its central location. The price includes breakfast which is awful but lunch and dinner are good.

Bahir Dar
We stayed at the Ghion Hotel on Lake Tana and did a boat cruise to the islands to see the painted churches. The Blue Nile Falls area is pretty but not worth the long bumpy ride to get there. Since damming the river, the waterfalls are certainly nothing like the posters show.
Travel Tip: Check if a guide is included with your Lake Tana boat cruise. There was 9 of us on our boat. No guide accompanied us on the boat except for our private guide Samson. The first island we visited Samson acted as intrepreter otherwise we would have not understood what we were looking at. The second island we visited the church guide spoke English.

Gonder
The abandoned castles are very interesting and it is worth hiring the guides inside the gate.
Travel Tip: We stayed at the Belgez Pension which was cheap, clean and quiet but the rooms were very small and cramped. They do your washing for a very small fee – give to the cleaners in the morning.

Simien Mountains
We did a one day 4WD day trip with another traveller and our guide Samson.
Travel Tip: We would have liked to have stayed overnight even though we are not trekkers, as the scenery is stunning.

Lalibela
We spent 2 nights in Lalibela exploring the amazing rock churches.
Travel Tip: Keep your entrance ticket handy as they will be checked at each church entrance.

Arba Minch
Arba Minch is a overnight bus stop between Addis Ababa and Jinka.
Travel Tip: Spend an extra night on one of the stopovers and do the lake tour.

Jinka
We hired a 4WD locally to tour the main 3 tribes in the area (Mersi, Hamer and Karo tribes). We shared this cost with 3 other travellers who were on the bus and stayed at the same accommodation as us.
Travel Tip: Buy your bus ticket to Addis Ababa early (at least 1 day in advance) so you can obtain a better seat number otherwise you will find yourself stuck at the back of the bus on the 2 day journey. Buy good ear plugs so that you can block out the noise of the loud music videos playing.

Transport
We used a variety of transport that included: public bus, minivan, 4WD and boat.
Travel Tip: If you find that quite a few of you are heading in the same direction, it will be more economical and comfortable to rent a minivan and driver like we did from Bahar Dar to Gondar (7 people).

Tour Guide
We used the services of a private guide. This was the first time we have hired a guide for the entire trip through a new country. The guide proved invaluable in keeping the touts away (worth the money alone), dealing with local tour operators and obtaining hotels.
Travel Tip: Use a private guide’s extensive knowledge and experience to enjoy Ethiopia through the eyes of a local.

Overseas Adventure Travel

Each and every people in this world love to go for a holiday. It is very important to choose the right kind of holiday destination. Before choosing the destination make sure you discuss the tour with your family and come to a decision together.

You also need to make sure that each and every person in your family loves the place which you visit. Have you ever thought about overseas adventure travel? The world is always an exciting place which you can explore to the fullest extent.

But if you want to go abroad then you also need to make sure that you are ready to spend lots of money. But this will always be an experience of a lifetime. Family adventure holidays have become quite popular these days.

You will be happy to learn that each of the seven continents that are present in the world has something or the other to offer to you. These continents offer great spectacular opportunities as well as sceneries which you cannot afford to miss. Lots of people love to learn different kinds of languages and about different cultures.

There are various websites on the internet which can offer you with some of the best opportunities. But it is always important to choose the right kind overseas adventure destinations along with the right travel agencies. First of all it is important to find out about the various adventure travel destinations.

Africa, Asia, Europe, North and South America, Antarctica, Australia are the seven continents and each of them are waiting with their invaluable landscape to surprise you with every step you take forward. You might have an idea about the African safaris.

If you are looking for real adventure then Africa will never make you unhappy. Other than dense forests you will get to see different kinds of wild animals in this safari. This can turn out to be one of the real overseas adventure vacations. Lions are always special features in the African safari.

Can you imagine looking at the lion from a close distance? Yes you can have all these adventures if you choose the right vendor and the right adventure travel destinations. Other than Africa, America too can offer you with great adventure.

You can surely have your family adventure holidays in this place. The Caribbean is one of the most romantic places in the world. There are lots of people who even think of getting married in the Caribbean islands.

Other than this, you have several camping grounds in Canada. This is one of the best adventures camping present in the world. Both you and your family can enjoy the outstanding stay in the camps and sleep with the animals as well as beautiful dears but still be safe at the same time.

Other than this, you also enjoy the largest tides of the world and have a look at the largest whales in the islands of the Caribbean. Abercrombie & Kent and trek America are vendors who can make travel easy.