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
Pistes of France Give Aspen a Run for Its Money
By Linda Tancs
What is France’s best kept secret? No, it isn’t the location of the best truffle-producing oak tree. Instead, try the tony ski village of Megève in the heart of the French Alps. Take to the pistes in high style from the comfortable elegance of a chalet at Le Hameau de Mavarin, sporting fabulous views of Mont Blanc. After you’ve indulged in foie gras and farm pig at Michelin-rated Le Flocon de Sel, walk it off along the narrow cobbled streets in this pedestrian-friendly hamlet. Aspen’s got nothing on this powdered paradise for skier and non-skier alike.
Holland’s Charms
By Linda Tancs
In this week’s edition of Travelrific® Travel Show, the topic is Holland. Think of Holland and you probably envision wooden shoes and tulips. But did you know that Holland has more canals than Venice and more bridges than Paris? Tune in to www.travelrificradio.com and learn more about its charms.
Fake Pesos in Argentina
By Linda Tancs
The anemic U.S. dollar gets a second wind in South America, but only if the peso is legit. And so travelers to Argentina (Buenos Aires, in particular) should exercise caution in examining their notes at money exchanges, markets, street vending and in taxis. For instance, make sure the bills have a watermark and different serial numbers. If you’ve been duped, file a police report immediately. When shopping, use U.S. dollars if the vendor will accept them. The rate of exchange just might be more favorable than what you’ll get at the hotel or a bank. Nothing ventured, nothing gained, as they say.
Faith-Based Tourism Is Growing
By Linda Tancs
Today is All Souls Day, and so it seems only fitting to discuss faith-based tourism. According to the World Tourism Organization, the faith-based travel industry is one of the fastest growing segments of the business, with one-third of each major demographic expressing interest in a spiritual-oriented vacation. Want to learn more? Visit the World Religious Travel Association at www.religioustravelassociation.com.
Answer to yesterday’s trivia question: Hawaii, Puerto Rico and parts of Arizona.
Air France Crew Strike Affects Short Haulers
By Linda Tancs
Air France reports in its most recent press release that measures are underway to mitigate delays arising from a crew strike to take effect between 25 October and 29 October. The strike will reportedly only affect about 10% of flight schedules in and between France and Europe. Remedies include a full refund of airfare for those passengers who cannot be re-routed according to their wishes, free ticketing for other flights, or postponement of travel for up to one month. Air France has set up a special 800 number for passengers in France: 0800 240 260.
The Magic of Copenhagen
By Linda Tancs
In this week’s edition of Travelrific Travel Show, the topic is Copenhagen, Denmark. Copenhagen is a large city but really has the feel of a village hamlet, much like the settings in stories told by its famous son, children’s storyteller Hans Christian Andersen. Learn more about this kid-friendly destination at www.travelrificradio.com.
Canal Views of Bruges
By Linda Tancs
In this week’s edition of Travelrific Travel Show, the topic is Bruges, Belgium. In this canal city, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to another century as you marvel at row after row of ancient and graceful townhouses lining the waterways. Learn why it’s been called the Venice of the North. Visit www.travelrificradio.com.
Good Buys Gone Bad
By Linda Tancs
Sure, that red coral necklace looks just too irresistible at the market stall in Naples. But at what price, vanity? It might be a bigger price than you ever imagined if red coral is ultimately banned under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Oh, and that ivory figurine from Japan? Better leave it behind unless you have the papers to prove it’s an antique–that is, 100 years old or more. Crocodile and other lizard skins are likewise out of the question. And forget about those terra cotta pots from Mali. It’s better to know before you go, so check out U.S. Customs: http://customs.gov/linkhandler/cgov/toolbox/publications/travel/knowbeforeyougo.ctt/knowbeforeyougo.pdf
The Temples of Bangkok
By Linda Tancs
In this week’s edition of Travelrific Travel Show, the topic is Bangkok, Thailand. Explore the life and times of Buddha in the temples of this exotic city. Learn more at www.travelrificradio.com.
Singapore
By Linda Tancs
In this week’s edition of Travelrific Travel Show, the topic is Singapore. Although this city-state might resemble an urban jungle with its towering office complexes in the very cosmopolitan financial district, Singapore has its fair share of park-like ambience, too. Hear about it at www.travelrificradio.com.

