The Russian Town of Barentsburg Norway

Although the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard is administered by the Norwegian government, an international treaty declared that any other country has absolute equality in exploiting the area’s mineral resources.  Russia has taken this opportunity and has established a settlement in the 1930s.  Nowadays, Barentsburg is the second largest town in Svalbard with about 400 inhabitants who are almost entir

Longyearbyen, Norway

Who would have thought that a settlement of coal miners in the Arctic can be a base of tourism?  Longyearbyen, the "only" town in the archipelago of Svalbard, still bears its coal-mining roots.  Although large-scale coal mines have long been gone, the roadsides and mountainsides are still littered with mines and their equipment.  However, tourism is slowly becoming the town’s main sou

Svalbard, Norway: The World’s Northernmost Tourist Haven

If you are one of those rare travelers who are willing to go to the edges of the earth just to discover places that few tourists have dared to trek, consider traveling north…way north.  At the northernmost tip of Europe is a collection of islands (technically) governed by Norway where one can experience life in the Arctic. Svalbard is one of the most spectacular places imaginable, having a bit of access

Budget Day Trips in Puerto Rico

For a steamy Caribbean island with first-rate beaches and facilities, it seems that Puerto Rico is not the ideal holiday getaway for travelers tight on budget. But surprisingly, this island can be very affordable for savvy travelers who are looking for an exotic destination. You can find great bargains and many deals and incentives tailor-made for budget visitors. If you’re visiting Puerto Rico for more than

Security Mandates in Airports

Since the 9/ 11 Attacks, air travel has never been the same again, and it is most likely to stay that way for a very long time.  Security has tightened further and more check-ins are being conducted, sometimes to the point of being ridiculous.  Here are what you should know about the security mandates in airports across United States. Security is inconsistent across the country Although all airports in t

Savings Money on Business Trips

The economic crunch has dampened the spirits of every American.  However, that does not mean you do not deserve to have a well-deserved break and go on traveling to your favorite vacation spots.  You can have the vacation you have wanted for the whole year without having to spend so much money.  Here are some suggestions for the travel-savvy businesspeople. Have a layover When traveling across the country, plan

Popular Hiking Destinations in Ireland

Ireland is one of the more hiking destinations in the world. It is gifted with colorful wildlife, rugged coastline, majestic mountains, and charming villages, not to mention rich history and the Irish hospitality. Its wide range of terrain – from forest tracks and coastal paths to mountain passes – offer hikers from all over the world an experience of a lifetime. Here are some popular hiking areas in Ir

Lord Howe Island: A Timeless Paradise

Lord Howe Island holds the distinction of being the most beautiful island in the Pacific. Less than two hours by plane from Sydney or Brisbane, it is an island of pristine sand beaches, crystal clear water, and the southernmost coral reef in the world. It also boasts natural forests that are home to a variety of animals, some of them listed as endangered species. Here are some of the many activities you must do in

Columbus, Georgia: What Progress Has Preserved

The river town of Columbus, Georgia, is not just proud that it is the home of the Coca-Cola formula and the largest producer of denim in the United States.  Columbus also prides itself of preserving traditions all while creating a better future for all of its residents. Conveniently located where five of Georgia’s major highways intersect, Columbus is the state’s third largest city, measuring over

Cherry Blossom Viewing in Japan

If you are spending your holidays in April, Japan is a great choice as the much-awaited cherry blossom viewing season is at its peak. Cherry blossom festivals in Japan are a feast for the senses. Here you will get to experience exquisite tea ceremonies, watch traditional Japanese dance or music performance, and sample delicious Japanese foods while viewing the delicate white and pink blossoms. It is the time of the