Travelrific® Travel Journal
Picture postcards in prose.™ Check out the blogroll on the front page for official merchandise and other resources!Archive for international travel
No Worries
By Linda Tancs
“Don’t worry, be happy” must have been the mantra of choice for the Prussian king Frederick the Great when he commissioned Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam, Germany. Sanssouci (from the French sans souci, meaning “without worries”) was commissioned in 1747 as the ultimate getaway for a harried king on the battlefield. The largest World Heritage Site in the country, the rococo-styled mega-mansion is perhaps equally known for its expansive park. Combining the best of European Baroque garden settings, it’s probably no wonder that the property is often referred to as the “Prussian Versailles.” In other words, when en vogue, do as the French do.
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The author has not received any compensation for writing this content and has no material connection to the brands, topics, products and/or services that are mentioned herein.
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London’s Biggest Hotel Set to Open
By Linda Tancs
London sports its fair share of iconic hotel properties: Savoy, Dorchester, Brown’s, Connaught, etc. Today greets the soft opening (soft in the sense of limited availability while the finishing touches are completed) of the largest hotel now to grace the City: Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel. At a mere 350 million pounds, the finished product offers 1021 rooms within walking distance of Waterloo and Westminster stations. Of course, the best digs will feature striking views of Parliament and the Thames. The springtime gala opening will show off a luxe spa, pool and fitness center. Start saving your quid.
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The author has not received any compensation for writing this content and has no material connection to the brands, topics, products and/or services that are mentioned herein.
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Da Vinci Slept Here
By Linda Tancs
Amboise Castle (Château d’Amboise) is a stout fortress in France’s Loire valley. Its magnificent trappings and gardens no doubt merit a World Heritage designation, but its biggest claim to fame may be for what is–or isn’t–buried in the palace grounds; namely, the remains of Leonardo da Vinci. The great Renaissance master moved to France in what would be his last years during the reign of King Francis I, accepting a post as “first painter to the king.” His creative genius is undisputed (a rare occurrence). What is less certain, however, is his final resting place, reputed to be Saint-Hubert’s chapel on the palace grounds. According to a story by the Associated Press, his remains were originally buried at the palace church of Saint Florentine but required removal after destruction of the site during the French Revolution. The identity of the remains removed to Saint-Hubert remains subject to much speculation. Amboise holds fast to its status as eternal host to one of the world’s finest artists; a simple stone slab on the floor of the church bears his name. Regardless what you believe, there are plenty of other reasons to visit the palace, like the sweeping views of the town and valley from the castle ramparts. The intricate Late Gothic carvings on the chapel’s exterior and its interior stained glass windows are worth the visit, too.
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The author has not received any compensation for writing this content and has no material connection to the brands, topics, products and/or services that are mentioned herein.
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A Room With a View in Seoul
By Linda Tancs
The W Hotel in Seoul may be the chain’s first property in Asia, but the view is likely the thing that visitors will remember most. Sure, as a luxe hotel it’s got all the trappings you would expect: soothing spa remedies, ambience, five-star dining experiences, a resort locale. But it’s the view atop Mount Acha’s gliding slopes that makes it hard to leave the room. On a clear day, as the song goes, you can see forever. That’s W for “wow.” What’s your favorite room with a view?
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The author has not received any compensation for writing this content and has no material connection to the brands, topics, products and/or services that are mentioned herein.
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Registration Required for Visa-Free Travel to U.S.
By Linda Tancs
Tourists from countries participating in the visa waiver program may be unaware of a little program passed by Congress in 2007 (arising from the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007) known as the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), previously reported on this blog. However, that little program could take a big bite out of your travel plans if you fail to comply with its requirements. Simply put, ESTA requires that travelers from those 30+ countries participating in the visa waiver program obtain an electronic authorization of their right to enter the U.S. The authorization is obtained by completing an online application. If approved for travel, the authorization will be granted in a matter of seconds. Otherwise, prospective visitors may get a “pending” message, in which event the site must be re-checked for authorization within 72 hours. Those denied authorization must contact the State Department for advice on obtaining a visa. The effects of noncompliance with the program, as of 20 January this year, could include denial of boarding or denial of entry into the U.S. at point of entry. And if the Travel Promotion Act becomes law, there’s likely to be a $10 fee attached to your application. You should also note that the right of authorization is independent of any other requirements for entry, such as a valid passport and length of stay limitations. Any questions? Read the Department of Homeland Security’s FAQs.
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The author has not received any compensation for writing this content and has no material connection to the brands, topics, products and/or services that are mentioned herein.
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Magic Returns to Barcelona
By Linda Tancs
For the first time, Carnival Cruises will homeport in Barcelona with the return of the 130,000-ton vessel Magic in 2011. The ship will offer 7-, 9- and 12-day Mediterranean cruises from its adopted port, May through October. As reported in 2008 for Carnival’s Dream liner, Magic will keep the kids happy. Adults may find their inner Zulu at the Serenity spa. Today marks the last day for previous Carnival guests to cash in on pre-sale pricing as part of the line’s celebrated return to Europe. Newbies can view the full fare menu beginning on 26 January.
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The author has not received any compensation for writing this content and has no material connection to the brands, topics, products and/or services that are mentioned herein.
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The Soul of Seoul
By Linda Tancs
Seoul has been the capital of South Korea for 600 years, but this city is far from antiquated. In fact, among its many tributes to royalty and tradition lies a cultural renaissance in the making. Find out more at Travelrific® Radio.
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The author has not received any compensation for writing this content and has no material connection to the brands, topics, products and/or services related to Korean tourism.
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Sleep On It
By Linda Tancs
Longer security lines and increased check-in requirements mean headaches for early morning travelers. Worried about missing your flight? If you’re prone to misjudge the time it will take from breakfast table to tarmac, then maybe you need a sleepover. At many airports, you can get a deal on a nearby hotel–and a headstart on that check-in line. Sweet dreams.
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The author has not received any compensation for writing this content and has no material connection to the brands, topics, products and/or services that are mentioned herein.
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Imelda’s Paradise
By Linda Tancs
Last summer the famously opulent Parisian department store Galeries Lafayette opened a shoe department. Big deal, you say? Well, how many shoe departments have you seen that span almost 35,000 square feet? As you would imagine, there’s something for every budget, from flip-flops to Ferragamos. Imelda Marcos, the shoe-happy former First Lady of the Philippines, would no doubt find it heavenly.
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The author has not received any compensation for writing this content and has no material connection to the brands, topics, products and/or services that are mentioned herein.
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Take the Stress Out of Travel
By Linda Tancs
Taxis, touts, ATMs, currency conversions, visa requirements….It’s enough to make you want to stay home peacefully rather than pull your hair out. Relax, there’s a way to take the stress out of travel. Although it may seem like a misnomer, IHateTaxis helps you find the right transportation (taxis included) to your hotel door worldwide and gives other helpful information to you, too, with country profiles.
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The author has not received any compensation for writing this content and has no material connection to the brands, topics, products and/or services that are mentioned herein.
Travelrific® Travel Journal 