7 Tips For Successful Travel

7 Tips For Successful Travel

We all travel a lot more now than our ancestors did. Our world has become smaller and more reachable. And this is a good thing. It helps us to understand different cultures: different people with different ways of living and working. It helps us to be more tolerant, and it provides us with a better quality of life.

We all travel a lot more now than our ancestors did. We travel all over the world and only think of the jet lag, and not the vast distances we cover. Our world has become smaller and more reachable. And this is a good thing. It helps us to understand different cultures, different people with different ways of living and working. But there are a few essentials you should always check before setting off.

1. It may seem obvious, but many people don’t bother to find out the most basic things about the country they will travel to. You should do this to avoid surprise or disappointment.

2. Check on the kind of weather you will find where you are going. If you live in Florida and travel to northern Greenland, you will be in for a shock unless you know that much colder weather is normal there.

3. Be sure that the medical and general insurance coverage you have (you do have, don’t you?) is adequate for your destination.

4. Do you have all the paperwork and documentation required for your trip? If not, get it!

5. Are there any diseases you will need immunization against where you are going? Check and find out before getting exposed.

6. If you plan on driving in the place you intend to travel to, check that you have an acceptable licence. You may need an international driving licence, for example. And are you familiar with the local driving laws where you are going? If not, become familiar, fast.

7. Finally, the most obvious one of all: is your passport up to date? And if not, do you have enough time to renew it before you set off? You’d be surprised, amazed even, at how many people get this one wrong.

Author by Zulkronz

Backpacking Journals – Preserve Your Backpacking Experiences

 
Backpacking Journals

Preserve Your Backpacking Experiences
Backpacking is a great way to escape the rat race and be one with nature. Alas, your backpacking experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a backpacking journal for your adventures.

Backpacking is a great way to escape the rat race and be one with nature. Alas, your backpacking experiences can fade with time. The best way to prevent this is to keep a backpacking journal for your adventures.

Backpacking Journals

Take a minute to give some consideration to your most recent backpacking experience. What sticks out in your mind? Now think about the first time you ever went backpacking. Undoubtedly, you remember few things about the geography, people you went with, particular backpacking routes and spectacular views. The experiences you’ve forgotten are lost to time. If you had kept a backpacking journal, this won’t be the case.

There are famous instances of people keeping journals throughout time. Of course, Anne Frank’s Diary is the best example. In her diary, Anne kept a running commentary of the two years her family spent hiding from the Nazis. While your backpacking experiences better be more lighthearted, keeping a journal will let you remember them as the years pass.

A good backpacking journal combines a number of characteristics. First, it should be compact so you don’t have to take up unnecessary space for other things. Second, it should have a case to protect it from rain, spills and so on. Third, the journal should contain blank areas to write your notes. Fourth, the journal should contain cue spaces to remind you to keep notes on specific things. Cues should include:

1. Who you went backpacking with,

2. Where you backpacked and if you enjoyed it,

3. Who you met and contact information for them,

4. The geographic and weather conditions,

5. Routes you tried and how far you made it, and

6. Any unique things that occurred while backpacking.

At the end of the trip, you should be able to get the following from your journal:

1. Contact information for other backpackers and people you met,

2. Enough detail to provide you or a friend with a guide if you backpack the location a second time.

3. Memories to reflect upon years later, and

4. Something to pass on to your friends, children and grandchildren.

To get the most out of your backpacking journal, you should write in it during backpacking breaks or immediately after. Every trip is special, even if you just go out for a weekend.

Backpacking is a great way to commune with nature. Make sure to preserve the experience.

Author By zulkronz

Sarawak the paradise

Sarawak the paradise From pristine underwater marine life and untouched coral reefs to rich heritage and from wilderness to modern city landscape

Bidayuh

Orang Ulu

Iban

Melanau

Sarawak is a land of colourful cultures boasting 27 ethnic groups, making up a population of 1.8 million. 

The majority of the population live in a few large towns and cities, but a significant percentage still live in longhouses and villages in the remote areas.

The Ibans or famously known as the legendary headhunters of Borneo constitute the biggest ethnic group (29.6 %) in Sarawak. They are originally from Kalimantan, and so their culture and traditions are very similar to the Dayaks in Kalimantan. 

Be charmed and mesmerised by their cultural festivals and celebrations. Let the romance of Sarawak's rich cultural diversity set the stage for your perfect holiday.

Festival Paradise

Rainforest World Music Festival

Tibau swinging at Kaul Festival

Sarawak Regatta

Miri International Jazz Festival

Gawai Festival

Steeped in traditional animistic beliefs and influences of world religions and its rich cultural heritage, the colourful ethnic tribes in this Land of the Hornbill celebrates a potpourri of events and festivals throughout the year. However, a feature common to all festivals in Sarawak is the open house tradition, where friends, relatives and strangers drop by homes and are welcomed with all the special food and drink appropriate to the event. Come discover a rich cultural heritage unlike any other in this festive paradise.

Natural Wonders

Sarawak's treasure of natural wonders is best appreciated in its many protected national parks and ancient rainforests where alluring caves, cascading waterfalls, pristine beaches and exotic wildlife are waiting to be enjoyed. Eleven National Parks and two Wildlife Centres vie for your attention and each will leave fond memories. Here, the largest cave chamber in the world, longest canopy skywalk and spectacular natural limestone formation will leave you bewildered and amazed. Bako National Park Sarawak oldest national park is home to the rare proboscis monkeys, long-tailed macaques, silver leaf monkeys, monitor lizards, plantain squirrels, wild boars, otters, mouse deer, mangrove creatures and over 150 species of birds. An excellent introduction to the rainforests. Explore more ...   Mulu National Park Be awed by this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which will take your breath away. Gunung Mulu has it all – the world’s largest cave chamber and the world’s most extensive cave system with razor sharp limestone pinnacles. Watch the exodus of millions of bats from the dim caverns at dusk. Leave your footprints behind in a jungle adventure. Then retire to the comforts of The Royal Mulu Resort, an international standard jungle resort. Explore more ...   Niah National ParkOver 40,000 years ago, prehistoric men inhabited the Niah Great Caves. Palaeolithic artefacts and Neolithic paintings found at ancient burial sites dated as far as 42,000 years. Today, licensed local climb hanging belian poles to collect edible birds nests from the cave ceiling. Explore more ...   Kubah National Park One of the more popular locations for locals and foreigners favouring a day-trip. Waterfalls, crystal clear rivers and the world’s largest collection of palm trees are its attractions. Embark on one of many jungle trails leading to Gunung Serapi. Explore more ...   Gunung Gading National Park For a possible glimpse of the world’s largest flower, the rare Rafflesia draws tourists here. Even if you miss the flower, you would enjoy the trek and adventure through the mountains to view beautiful cascading waterfalls and rare foliage. Explore more ... Similajau National Park Bird Watchers paradise! Golden sandy beaches and evergreen forest make this park home to some 185 species of birds and 24 species of mammals. Keep an eye on the sea too, for you may just spot some dolphins and turtles.   Lambir Hills National Park Incredible diversity best describes this place that sees 1,100 tree species dwelling within a 50-hectare plot. Many plants and insects are yet to be discovered and identified. There are also alluring waterfalls and bathing pools that are characteristic of Malaysian jungles. Batang Ai National ParkMan and animal live in harmony in this park. The Iban longhouses are guarded by the spirit world – hornbills, orang utans and gibbons. Enjoy the best of wilderness and creature comforts of modern luxury at the Batang Ai Hilton Longhouse Resort. Pulau Talang and Pulau Satang National ParksThese two islands are turtle sanctuaries. Between May and October, green turtles come ashore to lay and bury their eggs. Pulau Satang Besar is open to the public while visits to Talang-Talang Islands require special permits.   Loagan Bunut National Park The major attraction of Loagan Bunut is its large natural lake, which miraculously shrinks and disappears every dry season. It is another bird watchers paradise. Watch the Berawan tribes display their unique fishing skills called Selambau. Tanjung Datu National Park Appreciate spectacular mountain vistas with cool streams cascading down to the emerald seas with corals just peeking from beneath. Rejuvenate in the spell of unspoilt beauty. Homestays are available at the nearby Melano village. Sarawak's rainforest is one of the most diverse and protected ecosystems in the world. Its treasure of natural wonders is best appreciated in its many protected national parks and ancient rainforests where alluring caves, cascading waterfalls, pristine beaches and exotic wildlife are waiting to be enjoyed Adventure Paradise Exciting activities await you in this mystical Land of the Hornbill. The Landscape and terrain encourages and beckons a host of outdoor activities. From the land to the sea, from mild to vigorous, whatever the challenge; if you're ready for it, this adventure paradise awaits you. Paradise on land Looking for an unforgettable adventure? Start with the Headhunter's Trail. Sarawak's highly acclaimed trail that traces the route of the ancient Kayan tribesmen who traversed valleys, hills and rivers. Make a stop at Camp Five and climb Gunung Api (Fire Mountain) to the pinnacle, which reaches the sky at an amazing 2,377 m. An effort that rewards you with the towering 40 m razor sharp limestone pinnacles and panoramic vistas. Fairy Caves sound mystical and magical, but wait till you try rock climbing and abseiling from it. Located near the town of Bau just 40 mins from Kuching. A must try for the adventurous. Caving is demanding and requires reasonable mental and physical fitness, but it is great fun! Get wet and wild as you squeeze through rocks and boulders, swim through subterranean streams and get covered in mud!  For mountain bike enthusiasts, Sarawak is mountain bike haven! Enter the annual mountain bike competitions The Rainforest Cup, held in Kuching at the nearby beach resort of Damai and the Battle of Borneo at Mulu. Described as a biker's dream, warm up by blazing the Sikoh Trail near Kuching. The technical single involves a number of water crossings and leads to a small waterfall. Two trails are accessible from Bau, the scenic Bratak Trail and the Kampung Opar trail with fast fire roads and screaming downhill! For the adventuresome, just 100 km from Kuching, the Penrissen Highlands, near the Indonesian border is dotted with longhouses and villages, all linked by tracks that are largely unridden. Looking for a cool trail? Head for Kelabit Highlands, aptly known as Sarawak's “heaven. Bario the main town is 1000 m above sea level, and flanked by Mount Murud (2,454 m) and Batu Lawi (2,043 m) which is more challenging. Treks vary in length; some last up to seven days and cross into Kalimantan (Indonesia). However, the cool air and friendly Kelabit folks make it an irresistible climb. Is fear a factor to you? Take on the Mount Santubong Summit Trek. Recommended only for the fit and agile.

Exciting activities await you in this mystical Land of the Hornbill. The Landscape and terrain encourages and beckons a host of outdoor activities. From the land to the sea, from mild to vigorous, whatever the challenge; if you're ready for it, this adventure paradise awaits you.

Gateway City A city of modernity yet cloaked with romantic colonial charm. The cities in Sarawak, where cleanliness is a way of life. And through this garden city meanders the Sarawak River that gives life to its community. Miri Bintulu Sibu Kuching Within Sarawak, there are many quaint riverside towns and modern cities that retain its own old world charm and serve as different gateways to different 'paradise'. Each of the cities has its own blend of culture and natural wonders where one could base their stay to explore their choice paradise. Convention As your sense become romanced by Sarawak's exciting culture and landscape, let your mind be inspired in our technology-friendly business surroundings. Set up for any kind of meeting, seminar, conference or convention, our par excellence service and facilities make business a pleasant and efficiently smooth experience. SARAWAK IS WHERE BUSINESS AND ADVENTURE MEET    As your sense become romanced by Sarawak's exciting culture and landscape, let your mind be inspired in our technology-friendly business surroundings. Set up for any kind of meeting, seminar, conference or convention, our par excellence service and facilities make business a pleasant and efficiently smooth experience. ideas flow as freely as the running streams, as fresh as the mountain breeze, and as lively as the sound of chirping birds. Here, nature meets modernity to get things done in a very different yet effective way. Where Business Cruises With Pleasure Imagine having your board members meeting in a National Park, amidst the seclusion of a rainforest, yet with the luxuries of an international class resort. It is all possible in Sarawak. Hilton Batang Ai Longhouse Resort at the Batang Ai National Park and Royal Mulu Resort at the Mulu National Park are ideal for incentive groups and high-level meetings and conferences. Imagine teeing off after a productive meeting. Borneo Heights at 1000 m above sea level nestled among the world oldest rainforest offers avid golfers a brilliantly designed 18-hole course. The clubhouse has rooms, chalets and suites for visitors, along with a fitness centre and spa. Two meeting rooms and a capacity of 50-60 persons are excellent for small business groups. Who says business cannot combine with pleasure? Imagine the sound of the sea bringing in waves of fresh ideas while you are at your meeting. This is possible at the many beach resorts such as Damai Beach and Damai Puri Resort & Spa in Sarawak, which caters to groups of various sizes. The Sarawak Tourism Complex can host more than a thousand delegates. Imagine a coffee break that means being able to walk of the hotel and stroll down the streets lines with colonial-styled shop houses. This is possible in the attractive Garden City of Sarawak, Kuching. Sarawak Convention Bureau The Sarawak Convention Bureau (SCB) recently commenced operations and will provide all the full impartial and free advisory services expected and received from Convention Bureau worldwide. Sarawak is the largest state in the Federation of Malaysia. The Sarawak Convention Bureauis the natural starting point for anyone who wants to organise a meeting or a congress in one of the world's great 'adventure' destinations located on the Island of Borneo. The SCB is a 'one-stop-shop' for independent information and assistance and will give a planner advice on all aspects of hosting and organising conventions and business events within Sarawak. For qualified buyers familiarisation visits and site inspections to introduce Sarawak to planners will be coordinated by the bureau and the potential buyers are invited to familiarise themselves with the destination, including Social Programs, Pre and Post Tours and Incentive Packages and Sarawak suppliers. For more info, please visit http://www.sarawakcb.com.

National-Level Powerboat Fiesta

National-Level Powerboat Fiesta

Date	:	Jul 2 - 3 2011
Venue	:	Kapit Waterfront Kapit Sarawak
Organiser	:	Kumpulan Kerja Pelancongan Bahagian Kapit dan Saberkas Daerah kapit
Website	:	http://www.kapitro.sarawak.gov...
Category	:	Sports
Another national event will be held in Kapit with hope to attract local and international participants. The organiser has line up various race category to encourage the local participants to take part in this event. With this event the organiser hope that it could promote sports tourism in Kapit.

Rainforest World Music Festival 2011

Rainforest World Music Festival 2011

Date	:	Jul 8 - 10 2011
Time	:	1200-2400
Venue	:	Sarawak Cultural Village Kuching Sarawak
Organiser	:	Sarawak Tourism Board
Contact	:	Sarren Michael
Phone	:	+6082423600
Email	:	sarren@sarawaktourism.com
Website	:	http://www.rainforestmusic-bor...
Category	:	Festivals
The Rainforest World Music Festival is a unique festival that brings together on the same stage renowned world musicians from all continents and indigenous musicians from the interiors of the mythical island of Borneo. Its formula of afternoon informative workshops, ethno-musical lectures, jamming sessions and mini concerts, followed by evening performances on the main stage has proven to be a hit with the audience, who come from near and far. The festival site also sets up a variety of food and drink stalls, an arts and crafts area as well as a counter for festival memorabilia, Sarawak souvenirs and CDs by the performing artists, all this contributing to a fun filled, wholesome festival experience. World Music plus a country fair atmosphere in the midst of lush greenery. The Rainforest World Music Festival, a not-to-be-missed occasion, guarantees a smashing time in the heart of the Borneo Jungle. Promotional tickets to the Rainforest World Music Festival 2011 are now available online commencing March 1, 2011. Limited tickets for the festival on each Friday and Sunday go as low as RM85 only during this promotional period whilst a 3 day pass are going at only RM260. After this promotional period, all daily ticket will be priced at RM110 each and 3 day pass will be offered as on the normal price at RM300. RWMF fans are encouraged to purchase online tickets now to avoid disappointment. All these promotional offers are limited and are available on-line up till April 15, 2011 and on first-come-first-serve basis. These offers will be a great opportunity to attend this annual event which has made itself into the top 25 world music festivals. Organised by STB Leisure & Properties, a subsidiary of Sarawak Tourism Board (STB), the 14th edition of the Rainforest World Music Festival 2011 will see performances from across the globe and is expected to draw a crowd of at least 21,000 festival goers during the three days. The event which has put Sarawak on the world map will be held at the Sarawak Cultural Village from July 8 to 10. To date 21 bands have been confirmed. Among them are Startijenn from France, Pacific Curls – New Zealand, Mamak Khadem – Iran, The Blue Canyon Boys – USA, Lisa Haley & The Zydekats – USA, The Shin – Georgia, Eastern Europe, Ikswew – Canada, Frigg – Finland, Malick Pathe Sow – Senegal, Agungbeat – Malaysia, Victor Valdez Trio – Mexico/Australia, Ilgi – Latvia, Hanggai – China, Kissmet – India/UK, Paddy Keenan Trio from Ireland, Leweton Women’s Water Music – Vanuatu, Joaquin Daz – Dominican Republic, Kamafei – Italy, Kenge Kenge – Kenya and Warsaw Village Band – Poland To be staged again at the Sarawak Cultural Village against the backdrop of the legendary Mount Santubong, the Rainforest World Music Festival is a not to miss event. So grab this opportunity to get your tickets early. The earlier promotional offers have all been taken up so why wait and be disappointed?. For purchasing, booking or enquiries please call  TicketCharge Hotline:             +603-9222 8811       or at TicketCharge @ No 42A-1, Jalan Metro Pudu, Fraser Business Park, Off Jalan Yew, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. More details on the festival also available at www.rainforestmusic-borneo.com Issued by: Corporate Communications Unit SARAWAK TOURISM BOARD T : +6 082 423600 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting            +6 082 423600      end_of_the_skype_highlighting F : +6 082 416700 E : stb@sarawaktourism.com Date : March 8, 2011

International Dance For Humanity 2011 MRC Miri Chapter

International Dance For Humanity 2011 MRC Miri Chapter

Date	:	Jun 26, 2011
Time	:	1pm - 5.30pm
Venue	:	Miri Indoor Stadium Miri Sarawak
Organiser	:	Malaysian Red Crescent Miri Chapter
Contact	:	6085-411121
Phone	:	6085-428032
Fax	:	6085-420479
Email	:	mrcmiri@streamyx.com
Admission Fee	:	Free Admission
Category	:	Festivals
The Malaysian Red Crescent, Miri Chapter would like to invite you/troupe to participate in our "International Dance For Humanity" with the theme, " Together for International Peace & Harmony". Miri, is a beautiful and vibrant resort city located in Northern Sarawak. It offers visitors a great opportunity to sample and experience our beautiful diverse culture from various ethnic groups. Visit our proud heritage, the world renowned Mulu caves and sample our delightful local dishes in the company of the warm hospitality of our people. Your participation will help to generate and promote mutual understanding and harmony among races and nations. MRC, Miri Chapter has been organizing this event since 2004 known as the 'Dance for Humanity' to promote understanding through cultural dances. Local dancing troupes representing various social, ethnic and  cultural groups have been giving us enthusiastic participation to showcase their performance, which in itself is a great edu-entertainment. The overwhelming support and popularity of the event has prompted the Chapter to organize this year's event on a larger scale to include participation from international community by upgrading the event as the "International Dance For Humanity'. ..show your care by supporting us...

Pesta Benak (Tidal Bore Festival)

Pesta Benak (Tidal Bore Festival)

Date	:	Jun 16 - 19 2011
Time	:	All Day
Category	:	Festivals
The festival is to promote harmony among local community and to introduce Sri Aman town through tourism. Tidal Bore or locally known as 'Benak' occurs everyday with different wave length and height. During spring tide, tidal bore with high magnitude can be observed clearly. The 'Benak' continues its journey another 30km inland, ending near the small village of Engkili in the same division.