Agnes Riley's Posts - Tripatini2024-03-29T13:20:45ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRileyhttps://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/65772838?profile=RESIZE_48X48&width=48&height=48&crop=1%3A1https://frugalnomads.ning.com/profiles/blog/feed?user=28ljndqis4kbx&xn_auth=noFrom Gettysburg to Hastings: Re-enactments and Living Historytag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2015-10-03:3169359:BlogPost:3958072015-10-03T13:00:00.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120509_civilwar.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120509_civilwar.jpg"></img></a></p>
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<p>For some people, history is a thing of the past, over and done with. But for others, history is something through which we can get in touch with our roots and learn something about ourselves and those who came before us. Throughout the world, there are many groups who strive to bring history to the masses, through re-enactment of specific events - such as battles - or…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120509_civilwar.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120509_civilwar.jpg" class="align-center"/></a></p>
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<p>For some people, history is a thing of the past, over and done with. But for others, history is something through which we can get in touch with our roots and learn something about ourselves and those who came before us. Throughout the world, there are many groups who strive to bring history to the masses, through re-enactment of specific events - such as battles - or through the depiction of certain periods. For travellers, these events are a great opportunity not only to have some fun, but also to learn something new. Here are some of the world's best re-enactments and living history events.</p>
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<p><strong>Battle of Waterloo Re-enactment, Belgium</strong> - This annual event takes place in Waterloo, Belgium, in the originally battlefield of the famous battle. The re-enactment happens in June and gathers re-enactors from all over Europe, all dressed in period gear and holding replicas of period weapons. The astonishing spectacle starts with demonstrations of life at the time. Visitors can stop by the camps and observe the daily lives of the soldiers. On the final day, the battles of Plancenoit and Hougoumont (which make up what is known collectively as the Battle of Waterloo) are re-enacted.</p>
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<p><strong>Battle of Hastings Re-enactment, UK</strong> - No battle marked English history as much, as deeply or as lastingly as the Battle of Hastings. Held at Battle Abbey, Sussex, this yearly re-enactment is performed in October and counts with the participation of re-enactors from around the world. The edition of 2006 is believed to have been the largest pre-gunpowder re-enactment ever held.</p>
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<p><strong>Battle of Gettysburg Re-enactment, USA</strong> - Considered one of the most famous battles of the American Civil War, the Battle of Gettysburg is remembered every year on this three day event. If you pick up a <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/us/pennsylvania/philadelphia/" target="_blank">car hire in Philadelphia</a> in July and are at a loss of where to go, then this is a great opportunity to learn more about one of the most fascinating periods in American history. Besides the actual re-enactment of the battle, the events include presentations and exhibits about life in 1860s America.</p>
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<p><strong>Tewkesbury Medieval Festival, UK</strong> - The Battle of Tewkesbury was a crucial battle during the War of the Roses. Nowadays, the event is remembered every year in July during the Tewkesbury Medieval Festival. The event claims to be "Europe's largest free annual medieval battle re-enactment and fair" and includes weaponry displays, depictions of 15th century daily life, traditional crafts and, of course, the epic-scale re-enactment of the Battle of Tewkesbury.</p>
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<p><strong>Rapska Fjera, Croatia</strong> - Held in the island of Rab in July, the Rapska fjera has its origins in the 14th century, when celebrations were held in honor of Louis the Great. Nowadays, the festival takes the island back to the Middle Ages and visitors can get a glimpse of what life was like back then. The festival includes the depiction of traditional crafts, a costume parade, cannon fireworks and a crossbow tournament.</p>
<p></p>Key Strategies for Easy Packingtag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2015-09-16:3169359:BlogPost:3964142015-09-16T22:08:22.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120403_suitcaseb.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120403_suitcaseb.jpg"></img></a></p>
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<p>The most challenging aspect of travelling is packing. Forget about language barrier, cultural differences or anything else. Packing is where the real struggle lies. If you're like me and you can never get a suitcase to close however much you try, here are some invaluable tips to help you through one of life's greatest challenges: how to pack a…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120403_suitcaseb.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120403_suitcaseb.jpg" class="align-center"/></a></p>
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<p>The most challenging aspect of travelling is packing. Forget about language barrier, cultural differences or anything else. Packing is where the real struggle lies. If you're like me and you can never get a suitcase to close however much you try, here are some invaluable tips to help you through one of life's greatest challenges: how to pack a suitcase.</p>
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<p><strong>1.</strong> Don't over-pack. I cannot stress this enough. Make a list of all the essential things you'll need during your journey. Then revise that list and remove all the items that you-may-or-may-not-need-but-what-if-there-is-an-emergency. Then stick to that list religiously when packing.</p>
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<p><strong>2.</strong> There are two main packing strategies you may try: rolling or folding. Rolling is particularly great for backpacks, but can also be used with other types of clothes. The name is self-explanatory and will avoid wrinkles on your clothes, while saving space. If you prefer folding, try folding two pieces of clothing together. The way to do this is to put down one piece of clothing, then put half the other piece over it. Then you fold the bottom one over the top one, and the top one over the folded piece of the bottom one. That way there's a bit of cushion between clothes, hopefully preventing too much wrinkling.</p>
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<p><strong>3.</strong> When packing a backpack, put the heavier items on the bottom. That way you'll be less likely to wrinkle the lighter items, and the backpack will feel lighter as well.</p>
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<p><strong>4.</strong> If despite all your best tries you still have to deal with wrinkles when you reach your destination, hang your clothes in the bathroom. The humidity will help with the creases.</p>
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<p><strong>5.</strong> If you're carrying an extra pair of shoes in your bag, make sure you use the space inside the shoes to store items, such as socks.</p>
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<p><strong>6.</strong> Don't put any valuables in your checked luggage, in case it's lost. This includes all your documents.</p>
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<p><strong>7.</strong> Gone are the days when you needed to pack copies of your documents. You still can, if you're old school and you fear we're headed to an imminent technological apocalypse (however slim the odds). But the best thing to safeguard your documents is to scan them and email the scans to yourself. That way, you always have a copy available in a safe, easily-accessible place.</p>
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<p><strong>8.</strong> If you're flying, don't pack gift-wrapped souvenirs. If your suitcase is opened by airport officials, they'll have to unwrap it.</p>
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<p><strong>9.</strong> Put your luggage in the trunk of your <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/" target="_blank">car hire</a>, never on the back seat. This also applies to any valuables, such as your camera, smartphone or wallet - keep them out of sight.</p>
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<p><strong>10.</strong> Wear the heaviest things you need to take, rather than packing them. That way you save space inside your suitcase and distribute the weight.</p>No Man (Or Woman) Is An Island: Tips For the Solo Travellertag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2015-09-13:3169359:BlogPost:3964412015-09-13T00:26:58.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120515_travel.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120515_travel.jpg"></img></a></p>
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<p>Travelling alone can be the best thing in the world. You get to set your own pace, decide your own destinations, the things you want to see, and you don't have to please anyone else but yourself. It may be true that some things in life are better shared, but there's also much to be said for the pleasure of being on your own every now and then. Here are some things you should…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120515_travel.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120515_travel.jpg" class="align-center"/></a></p>
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<p>Travelling alone can be the best thing in the world. You get to set your own pace, decide your own destinations, the things you want to see, and you don't have to please anyone else but yourself. It may be true that some things in life are better shared, but there's also much to be said for the pleasure of being on your own every now and then. Here are some things you should keep in mind when travelling on your own.</p>
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<p><strong>1.</strong> Give a copy of your planned itinerary to a friend of family member. Include flight numbers, hotel contact, expected arrival and departure days and anything else you can think of.</p>
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<p><strong>2.</strong> Pack sensibly. That means taking only as much as you can comfortably carry on your own, and leaving any expensive items at home. Avoid flashy items or anything that can draw attention to yourself or make you stand out as a tourist.</p>
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<p><strong>3.</strong> If you pick up a <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/italy/" target="_blank">car rental in Italy</a> or in any other destination you're visiting, be sure to store your luggage in the trunk rather than on the back seat. Likewise, if you're carrying a camera, or your wallet, put them on the glove compartment.</p>
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<p><strong>4.</strong> If you're using public transportation, carry your backpack in the front, so no one can open it without you noticing.</p>
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<p><strong>5.</strong> If you plan on taking a cab from the airport to the hotel, make sure you choose an official cab and that you discuss the fee beforehand.</p>
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<p><strong>6.</strong> Try avoiding looking like a tourist. This may be harder in some destinations than in others, but always try to look confident and as if you know where you're going. In order to manage that, make sure you study your itinerary for the day beforehand.</p>
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<p><strong>7.</strong> Travelling is all about making new friends, so don't hesitate to mingle with your fellow travellers. However, exercise caution and stay in places where there are other people around. Also, don't share more about yourself than you'd reasonably share with a stranger under other circumstances.</p>
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<p><strong>8.</strong> If you're bothered about eating on your own, consider sitting at the bar, or on a table outside. You can also choose to buy something you can eat on the go while you travel from place to place.</p>
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<p><strong>9.</strong> Keep in touch with your family. Even if it's not every day, at least every other day or even once a week, remember to check in. Many major cities have Internet cafes where you can take the opportunity to check your email, update Twitter and make everyone envious of your awesome holidays on Facebook.</p>
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<p><strong>10.</strong> Learn some basic phrases of the language of the place you're travelling to. Even if the locals can speak English, trying to speak in their language is great for breaking the ice.</p>Local Idiosyncrasies: Driving Around The Worldtag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2014-06-06:3169359:BlogPost:4029732014-06-06T20:01:13.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p>Driving seems like a straightforward enough business. You get behind the wheel, turn on the car, and then proceed to go places. Most driving laws, while varying slightly from place to place, are no more than common sense, and most people will have no difficulty driving in countries other than their own. However, there are some obscure (and some not so much) corners of legislation where common sense goes to die. Here are some of the world's most bizarre driving…</p>
<p>Driving seems like a straightforward enough business. You get behind the wheel, turn on the car, and then proceed to go places. Most driving laws, while varying slightly from place to place, are no more than common sense, and most people will have no difficulty driving in countries other than their own. However, there are some obscure (and some not so much) corners of legislation where common sense goes to die. Here are some of the world's most bizarre driving laws.</p>
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<p><strong>Here a whale, there a whale, everywhere a whale whale</strong> - In California, it's illegal to shoot at wild game from a moving vehicle, unless you're shooting at a whale. Conversely, in Tennessee it's illegal to shoot at a whale from a moving vehicle. Now, I don't know about California - they do have a coast after all, there may be whales for all I know! - but I'm sure there are no whales in Tennessee for anyone to shoot at, from a moving vehicle or otherwise.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120614_think.jpg" target="_blank"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline"/><img src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120614_think.jpg" class="align-right"/></a></p>
<p><strong>Why did the chicken cross the road?</strong> - If the chicken crossed the road in Quitman County, <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/us/" target="_blank">USA</a>, it did so because it's a rebel, a troublemaker, and a disturber of the peace, as it is strictly forbidden for chickens to cross the road in Quitman.</p>
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<p><strong>The "where is the child" game</strong> - Will no one think of the children?? Danes will. In Denmark, you have to check for children under your car every time you want to drive off. Apparently it's a national pastime in Denmark for kids to hang around under cars reading the immortal works of Hans Christian Anderson (DISCLAIMER: This is not a national pastime in Denmark).</p>
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<p><strong>Spot The Pedestrian: Beijing Edition</strong> - In most places around the world, a driver's reaction when approaching a zebra cross is to slow down or even stop if a pedestrian indicates their intention to cross. Not so in Beijing. In Beijing if you even dream of stopping or slowing down to let a pedestrian cross, you'll be in serious trouble. Well, not really serious, you'll get a warning or a small fine at most. But still. It's frowned upon.<a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120614_think.jpg" target="_blank"><br/></a></p>
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<p><strong>Moar glasses</strong> - If you have to wear prescription glasses to drive, be warned that in Spain you MUST carry a spare pair, or risk a hefty fine. Apparently you can't be trusted to carry only one flimsy pair that may break at any second by sheer contact with oxygen.</p>
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<p><strong>I Googled "games with blindfolds" to find a clever title for this one, but let's say it did not go as I expected...</strong> - In Alabama, it is illegal for people to drive blindfolded. Which begs the question: isn't it everywhere?</p>Keeping Children Entertained On The Roadtag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2014-06-01:3169359:BlogPost:4010052014-06-01T22:48:43.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120605_kids.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120605_kids.jpg"></img></a></p>
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<p>Travelling with children can be a great experience for the whole family, but it can also be an exhausting experience for everyone involved. Children are more prone to boredom than adults (or at the very least are more vocal about it), so having a game plan to keep them entertained is of the utmost importance for the sanity of everyone in the car. Here are a few tips to keep…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120605_kids.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120605_kids.jpg"/></a></p>
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<p>Travelling with children can be a great experience for the whole family, but it can also be an exhausting experience for everyone involved. Children are more prone to boredom than adults (or at the very least are more vocal about it), so having a game plan to keep them entertained is of the utmost importance for the sanity of everyone in the car. Here are a few tips to keep your kids entertained in long <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/" target="_blank">car trips</a>.</p>
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<p><strong>1. Embrace the 21st century</strong> - We live in the digital age. Finding a way to keep your kids entertained with a movie or a TV show is increasingly easy and cheap. Whether it's in the guise of a laptop, a portable DVD player, or an iPad, the silver screen never lets anyone down. If you have more than one child, make sure all the children can easily see the screen. Having them use headsets will prevent the noise from bothering the driver and front passenger.</p>
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<p><strong>2. More digital goodies</strong> - Handheld gaming devices are another great way of keeping children entertained. Many mobile phones also have games, ranging from basic to quite elaborate, which will maintain your kids busy for hours.</p>
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<p><strong>3. Go old school</strong> - The digital age has the unfortunate downside of being too reliant on batteries, but you can never go wrong with some old-fashioned fun. There are countless games that can be great fun and keep kids in a good mood during your trip, and most of them more creative than pushing buttons on a keypad. Click <a href="http://ines-and-mels-travelling-corner.tumblr.com/post/24134002019/how-to-stay-entertained-on-a-road-trip" target="_blank">here</a> for some ideas.</p>
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<p><strong>4. Sing your heart out</strong> - Prepare a few mix CDs with popular songs that you children can sing along to. Disney is a good source, but mix it up a little. You can also turn it into a game of figuring out what movie the song is from and what character is singing it.</p>
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<p><strong>5. Bribery works</strong> - Pack your kids favourite toys (within reason, packing Barbie's dream house may not be the best idea), and use them to soothe any ruffled feathers or as an incentive for good behaviour. You should also pack plenty of snacks (a sensible mix of healthy and downright decadent), to hand out when needed. Use this tactic with caution: sugar rushes are just as bad as children being cranky because they're hungry.</p>Travel Photography: The World Through A Cameratag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2014-05-20:3169359:BlogPost:3971202014-05-20T21:56:06.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120517_photo.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120517_photo.jpg"></img></a></p>
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<p>Photography has done a great deal to change the way we document and share our travels. Back in the 18th and 19th century, when the Grand Tour was in vogue, travel journals were all the rage. Nowadays, a picture is worth a thousand words, and it's increasingly easier to snap a shot. Film cameras are a relic of the past, decreasing even further the costs associated with…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120517_photo.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120517_photo.jpg" class="align-center"/></a></p>
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<p>Photography has done a great deal to change the way we document and share our travels. Back in the 18th and 19th century, when the Grand Tour was in vogue, travel journals were all the rage. Nowadays, a picture is worth a thousand words, and it's increasingly easier to snap a shot. Film cameras are a relic of the past, decreasing even further the costs associated with photography, and nowadays any half decent mobile phone has camera capabilities, turning anyone among us into a budding photographer. Whether you're travelling along the Spanish coast with an <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/spain/alicante/" target="_blank">Alicante car hire</a> on touring Egypt and discovering the Pyramids, here are some tips for your travel photography endeavours.</p>
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<p><strong>1.</strong> Choose the right camera for the job. Are you going to take photographs for National Geographic or simply want to update your Facebook page? If you simply want to take a few shots to remember your holidays, don't take an expensive camera.</p>
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<p><strong>2.</strong> Remember to take extra batteries as well as extra memory cards. The last thing you want is to come across the perfect shot and realise you lack the power or memory space for it.</p>
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<p><strong>3.</strong> The bigger the camera you're taking, the more you should invest in a quality camera bag. It will protect your equipment as well as your shoulders when you have to carry it.</p>
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<p><strong>4.</strong> If you're taking a nice expensive camera, consider getting insurance for it. Accidents happen, so it's always best to prepare for the worst case scenario.</p>
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<p><strong>5.</strong> Avoid clichéd shots.</p>
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<p><strong>7.</strong> Unless you want to be part of that almost bonding experience that has people holding up the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Even if you have to tell yourself you're doing it "ironically".</p>
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<p><strong>8.</strong> It isn't always ok to take photographs. It should go without saying that many museums have rules about whether you can take photographs inside, or whether you can use flash if you do.</p>
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<p><strong>9.</strong> It isn't always ok to take photographs. Some countries also have rules about taking photographs of certain locations, such as military buildings.</p>
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<p><strong>10.</strong> It isn't always ok to take photographs. If you want to photograph a local, ask their permission first.</p>Mix Tape: Songs For A Road Triptag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-08-07:3169359:BlogPost:4061942012-08-07T13:27:13.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p>Road trips the perfect travel format as far as I'm concerned. They give you flexibility and a glorious sense of independence and freedom. Whether you're <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/us/" target="_blank">driving across America</a> like someone out of a Kerouac novel or touring Europe, driving is the way to go. But no road trip is ever complete without a matching soundtrack. A mix CD is the heart and soul of any half decent road trip. Here are some songs that need to be in…</p>
<p>Road trips the perfect travel format as far as I'm concerned. They give you flexibility and a glorious sense of independence and freedom. Whether you're <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/us/" target="_blank">driving across America</a> like someone out of a Kerouac novel or touring Europe, driving is the way to go. But no road trip is ever complete without a matching soundtrack. A mix CD is the heart and soul of any half decent road trip. Here are some songs that need to be in any mix cd.</p>
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<p>1. 500 Miles, The Proclaimers - The ultimate road trip song. It's cheerful and catchy and it's one of those timeless songs that everyone knows the lyrics too.</p>
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<p>2. Highway To Hell, AC/DC - Another song that has stood the test of time, Highway To Hell is not only catchy, it's incredibly bad-ass. And every mix CD needs at least one bad-ass song in it.</p>
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<p>3. Anything by Disney. Yes, really. - Unless they've had a terrible childhood, there's no one, nowhere, who doesn't know at least a few Disney songs. It doesn't even matter if you know the lyrics, just fake your away along till you become the next best thing to a Disney Princess.</p>
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<p>4. I’ve Been Everywhere, Johnny Cash - The song that's also a game. It doesn't matter if you don't know the lyrics to this one, you'll have plenty of time to learn them and then constantly fail at them even after you've learned them. It's all part of the fun.</p>
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<p>5. Baba O'Riley, The Who - You can never go wrong with the classics, really. And what sort of mix CD is ever complete with a bit of The Who?</p>
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</p>Tips For Driving In Irelandtag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-08-01:3169359:BlogPost:4048442012-08-01T15:06:48.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73866369?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73866369?profile=original" width="400"></img></a> For travellers bound for the Emerald Isle, picking up a car hire in Ireland can be a great way to explore, particularly if you wish to go out into the countryside and not be confined to a single location. Now, <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/ireland/" target="_blank">driving in Ireland</a> can seem like a no brainer. After all, how different can it possibly be…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73866369?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73866369?profile=original" width="400" class="align-left"/></a>For travellers bound for the Emerald Isle, picking up a car hire in Ireland can be a great way to explore, particularly if you wish to go out into the countryside and not be confined to a single location. Now, <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/ireland/" target="_blank">driving in Ireland</a> can seem like a no brainer. After all, how different can it possibly be from driving in the UK? The main language spoken is the same, people drive on the same side of the road (the left!), and there's no reason to suppose that driving in Ireland would be any more difficult than driving in the UK.</p>
<p>However, there are some differences and some specificities to driving on the other side of the Irish sea. First of all, you'll notice that speed signs show the limits in km/h rather than in mph. If you're driving a rental car in Ireland, the speed display will also have the speed in km/h. If, however, you decided to take your own UK vehicle, the simplest way to convert km to miles is to divide by 8 and then multiply by 5.</p>
<p>Works every time!</p>
<p>The road signs in Ireland display directions both in English and in Gaelic throughout most of the country. However, in the Gaeltacht, roadsigns only display Gaelic names. If you're driving to any of these regions, keep this in mind when looking up directions in maps. If you're picking up a rental for your holidays as opposed to bringing your own vehicle, it's advisable to choose a pick up location outside a main city such as Dublin, particularly if you mean to travel elsewhere. Much like any other major city, Dublin poses challenges when it comes to both traffic and parking.</p>
<p>Which brings us to yet another topic: parking. If you mean to park in a major city, know the following: one yellow line on the pavement means no parking during the week, during business hours. Double yellow lines mean you can never park there. In city centres, many of the parking will be paid, and you'll be required to get a ticket from a meter and display it on your dashboard. Meters accept only Euros, so be sure to have a few spare coins.</p>
<p>Driving on the Irish countryside is nothing if not relaxing, and you're in for a treat of scenic views and quaint villages. However, be advised that roads in rural areas can sometimes be rather narrow. Oftentimes, you'll also notice roads are lined with stone walls on both sides, so be sure to drive carefully. Finally, make sure you have enough fuel to get you where you are going. In rural regions, fuel stations will be few and far between, and most of them won't be open 24 hours.</p>How Technology Can Help Your Travelstag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-07-23:3169359:BlogPost:4021012012-07-23T16:48:27.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73866403?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-left" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73866403?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="262"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>This is a brave new world, the one we're living in. The digital age has arrived, and it is here to stay. New technology is present in almost every aspect of our lives, and it can prove a great help even during your travels. Here are some ways in which you can use technology to make your life a little easier when you're travelling.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>1. Scan…</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73866403?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="262" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73866403?profile=RESIZE_320x320" width="262" class="align-left"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>This is a brave new world, the one we're living in. The digital age has arrived, and it is here to stay. New technology is present in almost every aspect of our lives, and it can prove a great help even during your travels. Here are some ways in which you can use technology to make your life a little easier when you're travelling.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>1. Scan your documents</strong> - You should always have copies of your documents made when you travel. After all, what will you do if the unthinkable happens and your original documents end up in the possession of a person of ill-repute and you're left stranded with no way to prove who you are or where you're from? Back in the old days (when Gutenberg ruled the land), people would simply photocopy their documents and keep a physical copy of them. But paper can burn or be lost. The trick nowadays is to scan everything and email it to yourself. That way, you can easily access all your documents regardless of where you are, as long as you find an Internet connection.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>2. Smartphones are really smart</strong> - Gone are the old days when you needed a map to get around. In the digital age, as long as you have your trusty phone with you, you can always find your way. Many modern phones are equipped with GPS, allowing you to find out exactly where you are, and how to get to where you want to go. You can also use a smartphone to have Google Maps show you the way. And always remember: old technology or new, one does not simply walk into Mordor.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>3. Smartphones are even smarter than that</strong> - Most phones also have a camera. This can be useful in many ways. If you're driving and you need to leave your <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk" target="_blank">car</a> in a park, you can photograph the place where you left it, saving you the trouble of having to remember (!). Even more practical, if you're travelling with kids you should take a picture of them in the morning before leaving the hotel. That way, if you get separated, you can more easily engage the help of other people to find them.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>4. The "why you should buy expensive mobiles for your kids" clause</strong> - Remember how many mobile phones have GPS capabilities? Even those which don't have GPS per se sometimes have tracking devices, which allow their owners to find them if they ever lose them. This is a great way to find a child that has been separated from their parents in a crowd.</p>
<p></p>
<p><strong>5. Letting people know you're safe (also known as the "making people jealous" clause)</strong> - Updating your social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Myspace if for some reason you're stuck in 1999) will allow your family and friends to keep tabs on where you are, and to know you're alive and well.</p>Necessary Supplies For A Road Triptag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-07-06:3169359:BlogPost:4008322012-07-06T15:22:00.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865905?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865905?profile=original" width="670"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Road trips can be a lot of fun and a great way to travel with flexibility and convenience. But they can also quickly turn into a never-ending string of "are we there yet" enquires. When planning your <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/" target="_blank">road trip</a>, there's a number of things you should include in your packing list in order to ensure…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865905?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865905?profile=original" width="670" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Road trips can be a lot of fun and a great way to travel with flexibility and convenience. But they can also quickly turn into a never-ending string of "are we there yet" enquires. When planning your <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/" target="_blank">road trip</a>, there's a number of things you should include in your packing list in order to ensure everything goes smoothly.</p>
<p><strong>Mix CD</strong>- Most essential item on any self-respecting road trip. You want a mix CD with up-beat songs, which you can sing along to. You can never go wrong with the classics. This will keep everyone entertained and well awake.</p>
<p><strong>Snacks/Water</strong>- Kids (and most grown ups too), tend to get cranky when they start getting hungry. It is not always practical to stop at a service station to eat, nor is it as economical or healthy as packing your own snacks. Make sandwiches, take fresh fruit, pack some cereal bars, and add some milk or juice packages. Water is also essential, since it will guarantee everyone stays hydrated.</p>
<p><strong>Sunglasses/sunscreen</strong>- Being inside a car is not like being inside a house. It's very easy to get a bit too exposed to the sun inside a car, which is why you should take necessary precautions. Sunscreen will protect you from the worst of the sun, making sure you don't end up striped (one side tanned, one side untanned). Sunglasses are invaluable for the driver at least, since the sun reflected off the road can really put a strain on the eyes.</p>
<p><strong>Blanket/Travel pillow</strong>- Both of these should be kept well away from the driver - however wistfully he gazes at them - but they can really come in handy for everyone else. When the day starts getting chilly, or if you're simply in a mood for a cozy nap, you'll be glad you packed them.</p>
<p><strong>Paper bags</strong>- Remember all those tasty snacks you brought along with you? You'll need a place in which to dispose of the remains, as well as the wrappers, packages, etc. A tidy car is a happy car.</p>
<p><strong>Moist towels</strong> - Whenever you need to freshen up, these will become your new best friends. Also practical to clean your hands before you eat, after you eat, when you spill something while eating, and after you refuel your car.</p>Tips For Driving In Spaintag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-06-28:3169359:BlogPost:4002282012-06-28T13:25:24.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865866?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865866?profile=original" width="400"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Spain is one of Europe's most popular destinations, receiving thousands upon thousands of tourists every year. Some people like it so much that they actually decide to stay, and statistics show that foreign residents are something like 10% of the population.</p>
<p>Driving in Spain doesn't present too many difficulties, but there are several things drivers…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865866?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865866?profile=original" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Spain is one of Europe's most popular destinations, receiving thousands upon thousands of tourists every year. Some people like it so much that they actually decide to stay, and statistics show that foreign residents are something like 10% of the population.</p>
<p>Driving in Spain doesn't present too many difficulties, but there are several things drivers should be aware of. First of all, and this one is a big one for British drivers, traffic in <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/spain/" target="_blank">Spain</a> drives on the right-hand side of the road.</p>
<p>Not left, not middle-but-sort-of-leaning-left.</p>
<p>Right.</p>
<p>The country has many toll roads, and these are a very good option if you want to get where you're going in a quick, hassle-free fashion. Highways in Spain have very little traffic, they are extremely well-maintained, and the service stations defy stereotypes by being some of the most clean, with the best food served at the most reasonable prices in Europe.</p>
<p>On the downside, the highways themselves are considerably pricey - which accounts for the fact they have so little traffic. Secondary roads are reasonably well-maintained as well, and if you're interested in doing a bit of sightseeing, they may prove a better option. However, be aware that the traffic in them can become quite intense, depending on the area and the time of year. Truckers, particularly, prefer them to highways due to the lower cost.</p>
<p>As in the UK, you shouldn't drink and drive. The legal limit for drinking is 0.5 (stricter than the UK, where the limit is 0.8). Likewise, never use your mobile phone while driving; the local law enforcement will not be amused.</p>
<p>When it rains - which isn't often - the roads can become quite slippery, and drivers don't usually compensate for it as much as they should, so be sure to drive carefully.</p>
<p>Seat belts are mandatory both at the front and in the back, and children under the age of 12 should use a child-seat and never ride in the front. If you need to wear glasses, it's important to note you must carry a spare pair in the car at all times.</p>
<p>If for whatever reason you need to stop by the side of the road, you need to wear a visibility vest before you step outside the vehicle. If you're driving a rental, the company usually provides vests for their vehicles, but be sure to enquire beforehand if that's the case.</p>
<p>All in all, driving in Spain can be a very enjoyable experience. </p>Road Safety When Travellingtag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-06-26:3169359:BlogPost:3998712012-06-26T13:18:17.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865780?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865780?profile=original" width="670"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>When travelling, it's always important to take every necessary precaution in order to ensure your safety and that of family. Driving is no exception. Whether your touring the <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/spain/costa-del-sol/" target="_blank">Costal del Sol</a>, or visiting the colourful city of Cape Town, here are some tips to stay…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865780?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865780?profile=original" width="670" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>When travelling, it's always important to take every necessary precaution in order to ensure your safety and that of family. Driving is no exception. Whether your touring the <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/spain/costa-del-sol/" target="_blank">Costal del Sol</a>, or visiting the colourful city of Cape Town, here are some tips to stay safe.</p>
<p><strong>1.</strong> Never leave valuables in the car. If for some reason you must leave valuables in the car, don't leave them where they can be seen from the outside. Put them in the trunk, or lock them in the glove compartment. Never leave your documents in the car, in plain sight or otherwise, but carry them with you or keep them safely in your hotel.</p>
<p><strong>2.</strong> Lock the doors when you're driving. We should never mistrust our fellow human beings, but neither should we hand them the key to our homes. Particularly in cities, where you'll often be forced to stop by traffic lights, it's best not to tempt fate by driving with unlocked doors.</p>
<p><strong>3.</strong> When possible, choose a vehicle with air conditioning. Not only will this be a great help in warm and cold climates alike, it will also allow you to drive with your windows rolled up. Again, it's not that your suspecting anyone of trying to do anything untoward, but why tempt fate?</p>
<p><strong>4.</strong> Before leaving the depot with your car hire, ask someone on the staff to show you how the car's vehicle equipment works, such as hazard lights, locks, where the spare tyre is, etc. The last thing you want is to need one of this things and have no idea how to operate it.</p>
<p><strong>5.</strong> Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations of the country you're travelling to. There's more than one way to skin a cat, and just because things are done a certain way where you live, it doesn't follow that they are done the same way elsewhere. For instance, in some countries you only need to drive with your headlights on at night and in tunnels, while in others - Italy comes to mind - you need to have your headlights on at all times.</p>
<p><strong>6.</strong> Plan your route ahead of time. Nothing will give you away as a tourist faster than slow driving and the constant checking of a map. And the best way to stay safe on holidays is - where and when possible - to blend in with the locals.</p>
<p><strong>7.</strong> Don't give lifts to strangers. Remember <a href="http://www.tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/5-things-sherlock-taught-me-about-travel" target="_blank">Molly's Harmless Boyfriend</a>.</p>
<p><strong>8.</strong> Park your car in busy, or at least well-lit, areas. If for some reason you need to pull over when driving, don't just stop on the side of the road, drive to a well-lit location, where there are people around.</p>
<p><strong>9.</strong> Make sure you have enough fuel to get where you're going. In some places (German Autobahns, for instance), you'll actually be fined for stopping if you run out of gas.</p>
<p><strong>10.</strong> Not talking on the phone while driving is common sense, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't carry a phone with you, on the contrary. In an emergency, a mobile phone will allow you to quickly contact emergency services or roadside assistance. Be sure to learn the emergency number of the country you're in. In the European Union, dialing 112 in any country will put you in contact with the national emergency services.</p>Your Packing Checklist For The Perfect Holidaytag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-06-15:3169359:BlogPost:3998662012-06-15T15:08:21.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865870?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865870?profile=original" width="400"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Anyone who's ever travelled anywhere is aware of a little thing called Murphy's Law of Travelling. Murphy's Law of Travelling states that the longer the distance you have to travel, the higher the likelihood you'll forget to pack something essential. It works like clockwork. The best way to avoid it? Make lists, stick to the lists, double-check the lists, and…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865870?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865870?profile=original" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Anyone who's ever travelled anywhere is aware of a little thing called Murphy's Law of Travelling. Murphy's Law of Travelling states that the longer the distance you have to travel, the higher the likelihood you'll forget to pack something essential. It works like clockwork. The best way to avoid it? Make lists, stick to the lists, double-check the lists, and never let go of the hand of your son if he happens to be named Kevin and resembles a young Macaulay Culkin. Here's a helpful list to help you get started.</p>
<p><strong>1. Documentation.</strong> This includes your passport, driving license, health insurance documents, tickets, <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/" target="_blank">car hire voucher</a>, credit cards, and anything else you can think of. Scan the whole lot of them and email them to yourself just in case.</p>
<p><strong>2. Medication.</strong> A first aid kit always comes in handy, and it doesn't need to occupy a lot of space. Packing insect repellent might also be a good idea, depending on where you go. You might also consider taking some basic medicine, such as painkillers or any other medication you or your family regularly use. Make sure beforehand that everything you take is legal in the country you are travelling to.</p>
<p><strong>3. Sunscreen.</strong> No matter where you go, regardless of the season, sunscreen and sunglasses are your friend. If you're spending long periods of time outdoors, sunscreen will protect your skin not only from the sun, but also from the wind. If you're driving, sunscreen will also help you from ending up bicolour.</p>
<p><strong>4. Toiletries.</strong> Hairbrush, toothbrushes, shampoo and toothpastes.</p>
<p><strong>5. Tech supplies.</strong> Remember to pack your phone, your camera, and your laptop if you are so inclined. Furthermore, remember to take chargers and spare batteries for all of those. If you are travelling to a foreign country, check whether or not outlets are the same as in your home country. For instance, outlets are different in Spain and in the UK. If necessary, take plug adapters.</p>
<p><strong>6. Kid supplies.</strong> Depending on how old your kid is, this may mean a whole variety of things. However, two basics don't change until they are old enough to pack for themselves: something to keep them fed, and something to keep them busy. There's nothing worse than a cranky child on a trip.</p>
<p><strong>7. Clothing.</strong> Pack light, and choose items you can dress in layers, to adjust to lower or higher temperatures. If you're headed for the beach, remember swimming suits.</p>Parking In Lisbon: A Survival Guidetag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-06-08:3169359:BlogPost:3986352012-06-08T14:31:35.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865784?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865784?profile=original" width="400"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>If you have ever driven to any main European city, you should be well aware of all the dangers facing the unaware driver. Not the least of which that you often can't find parking without pulling a Faustus (and even then, no guarantees...). <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/portugal/lisbon/" target="_blank">Lisbon</a> is no…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865784?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865784?profile=original" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>If you have ever driven to any main European city, you should be well aware of all the dangers facing the unaware driver. Not the least of which that you often can't find parking without pulling a Faustus (and even then, no guarantees...). <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/portugal/lisbon/" target="_blank">Lisbon</a> is no exception.</p>
<p>Popular knowledge dictates that the best way to visit a city is by using public transportation, and that's sensible enough. But Portugal is a relatively small country, so having a car available does have its advantages, and you'll be able to see much more than simply Lisbon itself. That however, doesn't help you with the pesky parking situation. But fear not. Here is everything you ever needed to know about parking a car in Lisbon.</p>
<p>First, know the signs. The sign indicating forbidden parking is round, and it has a blue background, surrounded by a red stripe and with a red stripe across. Two red stripes forming a cross on that same sign mean that not only can't you park there, you also can't stop there. Yellow or red signs painted on the floor also indicate forbidden parking.</p>
<p>Furthermore, know that it's always illegal to park in front of garage doors, whithin 18m of a road junction, within 15m of a bus stop, whithin 5m of a zebra crossing, and within 3 meters of a tram or bus stop. There are also areas (such as Bairro Alto, Alfama, Princípe Real, and others) where parking is only available for residents.</p>
<p>Most parking around the city is paid. The sign for paid parking is a square blue sign with a white P. In order to pay for street parking, just look for the metre and pay for the amount of time you will leave the car parked there. You then will need to display the ticket on your car. Usually, parking is paid from Monday to Friday, between 08:00 and 20:00; and on Saturdays from 08:00 to 18:00.</p>
<p>There are also several paid parks throughout the city. Even though petty crime is no worse in Lisbon than in any other major city in Western Europe, if you worry about leaving your car unnattended, a car park might be the best solution for you. Click <a href="http://www.emel.pt/pt/estacionamento/parques/" target="_blank">here</a> for park locations.</p>
<p>A very important thing to keep in mind when parking in Lisbon is whether or not you're parking in an area where trams pass. If you are, make sure you park as close to the sidewalk as possible. If a tram can't pass due to a parked vehicle, the car <em>will</em> be towed.</p>
<p>As a final note, be aware that you will probably come across men trying to help you park your car (locally known as "Arrumadores"). As a rule, they're perfectly harmless and they sometimes actually help you find a free spot. Whether they do or not, it's always best to hand them a spare coin, or they will exact revenge on the car's paintwork.</p>
<p>You call it blackmail, they call it capitalism in action.</p>Tips For Travelling On A Budgettag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-06-04:3169359:BlogPost:3978782012-06-04T16:26:17.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865547?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865547?profile=original" width="400"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Back before the industrial revolution, travelling was a perk that only the elite could afford, a luxury denied to most of the population, who even if they could afford the journey itself - which they couldn't - couldn't afford to stay away from work for that long. Nowadays, travel is relatively easy, but it still never hurts to find ways to cut the costs of our…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865547?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865547?profile=original" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>Back before the industrial revolution, travelling was a perk that only the elite could afford, a luxury denied to most of the population, who even if they could afford the journey itself - which they couldn't - couldn't afford to stay away from work for that long. Nowadays, travel is relatively easy, but it still never hurts to find ways to cut the costs of our holidays - so we can start saving for next year, if nothing else ;) Here are some tips to help reduce your travel expenses.</p>
<p><strong>1. Travel off-season</strong> - This is a no-brainer. High season prices sky-rocket often to unreasonable (if not downright forbidding) heights. In many places, southern Spain comes to mind, the weather is pleasant enough year-round, so travelling off-season is a perfectly feasible option. Furthermore, you get to avoid the peak season crowds.</p>
<p><strong>2. If you're <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk" target="_blank">renting</a> a car, rent the smallest possible vehicle</strong> - This isn't so much because of the price of the rental itself, but mostly because bigger cars tend to spend more fuel. Another good tip, check to see if diesel is cheaper than gasoline in the country you're travelling to. If that's the case, hire a diesel-fueled car.</p>
<p><strong>3. Avoid tourist restaurants</strong> - In most cities where there are tourists, there are restaurants that cater specifically to them. They're usually the ones with food pictures on the menus, and waiters outside luring unsuspecting tourists in. They may serve great food (and then again they may not), but they'll invariably charge you "tourist prices". Look for small local restaurants, where you can taste authentic local food at prices less likely to bankrupt you. If you'd like to save even more, consider buying food in supermarkets rather than eating out.</p>
<p><strong>4. Sharing is caring</strong> - If you're travelling with someone else, sharing a room will most often be cheaper than booking double rooms. If you're travelling with a big group, consider renting a holiday home and splitting the cost.</p>
<p><strong>5. Currency Exchange</strong> - Generally speaking, you're better off using your ATM card or credit card to get foreign currency in the country you're travelling to, even though the bank may charge you a fee for transactions made in a foreign currency.</p>Tips For Surviving A Day In A Theme Parktag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-05-30:3169359:BlogPost:3980132012-05-30T15:01:06.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120523_disney.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120523_disney.jpg"></img></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>What best way to enjoy a fabulous family holiday than by taking everyone to a theme park? With something for everyone, no matter the age, theme parks are the be all and end all of family entertainment. In order to make the most of your theme park holidays and help your family time run smoothly, here are some tips.</p>
<p><strong>The sun is trying to kill you</strong> - Well,…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120523_disney.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120523_disney.jpg" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p></p>
<p>What best way to enjoy a fabulous family holiday than by taking everyone to a theme park? With something for everyone, no matter the age, theme parks are the be all and end all of family entertainment. In order to make the most of your theme park holidays and help your family time run smoothly, here are some tips.</p>
<p><strong>The sun is trying to kill you</strong> - Well, not really, but close enough. Specially in the summer, you can never be too careful with the sun. Plus, you'll be running around, having fun, and sweating a lot, which increases the risk for dehydration. There are three things you'll need in order to protect you from the sun and the heat. First of all, make sure to apply plenty of waterproof sunscreen to everyone (and re-apply during the day). Second, hand out hats to the whole family. Third, make sure you drink plenty of water during the day. Water bottles are at a premium inside parks, so pack your own or take a canteen.</p>
<p><strong>Parking made easy</strong> - In most <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/us/florida/orlando/" target="_blank">Orlando</a> theme parks, you can use the ticket from the car park to re-enter the park on the same day. If you're hopping between different Disney parks, you only need to pay for parking the first time, since the ticket will allow you entrance to the other Walt Disney World parks.</p>
<p><strong>Kids aren't adults in doll size</strong> - For all that theme parks have great rides and attractions for the whole family, it's often easy to get a bit too overexcited with all the possibilities and just want to try as much as possible. But remember that children, particularly young children, can't keep up with the pace of an adult. Take plenty of breaks and try to balance out the attraction you'd like to try with attractions that would be a smoother ride for your children.</p>
<p><strong>Lost and found</strong> - No matter how careful one is, it's possible for children to get separated from their parents in the middle of the crowd. Just in case, make sure you write down on a piece of paper your name, your contact number, the name of your hotel and their contact number, and slip it into your child's pocket. That way, even if they get lost, there's a way to contact you.</p>
<p><strong>Tech is your friend</strong> - Most mobile phones nowadays have a camera. This isn't only great to take some quick shots of your holidays, it's also a great way to keep important information handy. You should, for instance, take a photo of your children before leaving the hotel in case you get separated. When you park your car in the theme park's lot, you should also take a picture of the row where you are. That way, you don't need to fear forgetting.</p>Portugal: Understanding Road Tollstag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-05-23:3169359:BlogPost:3975682012-05-23T13:06:49.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865617?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865617?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="400"></img></a></p>
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<p>There have recently been some changes to the way toll roads work in Portugal, with roads that were previously toll-free suddenly becoming paid. Travellers headed for Portugal will come across three different types of roads: national roads, highways and SCUTs.</p>
<p>National roads have no tolls and they're tolerably well-maintained, particularly stretches of…</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865617?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="400" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/73865617?profile=RESIZE_480x480" width="400" class="align-center"/></a></p>
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<p>There have recently been some changes to the way toll roads work in Portugal, with roads that were previously toll-free suddenly becoming paid. Travellers headed for Portugal will come across three different types of roads: national roads, highways and SCUTs.</p>
<p>National roads have no tolls and they're tolerably well-maintained, particularly stretches of road connecting main cities. They have the disadvantage of having lower speed limits than highways or SCUTs. Furthermore, they aren't as direct a route between most locations. In some parts of the country they also have more traffic than highways.</p>
<p>If you choose to travel in a highway, know that highways are paid throughout the country. Drivers can choose to either pre-pay their use of the highway, or pay as they go along. Via Verde devices allow vehicles to use the Via Verde lane and to pass toll booths without stopping. Most <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/" target="_blank">rentals</a> won't have the device unless requested by the client. Paying for the toll is very easy, however, and - with some exceptions - traffic near toll booths isn't problematic.</p>
<p>SCUTs are much like highways in their infrastructure, and - up until recently - drivers didn't need to pay tolls when using them. Recently, however, this was changed and now vehicles using SCUTs (which ironically stands for "Sem Custos Para O Utilizador" - No Costs For The User) are required to pay tolls.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, paying tolls in SCUTs, however willing one is to do it, isn't always as easy as it seems. Because they were not intended to be used as a paid part of the road network, there are no toll booths along SCUTs. This leaves many foreigners at a loss as to how to pay the tolls. Even worse, many people don't even realise they are using a toll road until they are fined for their failure to pay. There are currently four SCUTs: A22 (Algarve), A23 (Torres Novas-Guarda), A24 (Viseu-Chaves) and A25 (Vilar Formoso-Aveiro). License plates are recorded by a system of overhead devices.</p>
<p>There are two ways to pay for SCUT tolls. You can either request a pre-paid device, or you can pay in a post office or PayStation up to five days after you used the road.</p>
<p>Highways and SCUTs are a very convenient way of travelling in Portugal, and the country has an extensive and well maintained highway network. However, if you prefer to avoid the cost of using these roads, while using national roads might make for a somewhat lengthier trip, it's still a perfectly reasonable alternative.</p>Clichéd Photography: The Statues in Our Shotstag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-05-19:3169359:BlogPost:3970142012-05-19T17:00:00.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120517_brasileira.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120517_brasileira.jpg"></img></a></p>
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<p>One of the great things about travelling is that you're taking part in a shared heritage, not only with the locals in the places you visit, but also with other travellers. When coming across other tourists on our journeys - perfect strangers though they may be - there's a sense of bonding that transcends nationality and language. One way in which this shared bond is…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120517_brasileira.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120517_brasileira.jpg" class="align-center"/></a></p>
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<p>One of the great things about travelling is that you're taking part in a shared heritage, not only with the locals in the places you visit, but also with other travellers. When coming across other tourists on our journeys - perfect strangers though they may be - there's a sense of bonding that transcends nationality and language. One way in which this shared bond is expressed is through photography. There are some types of travel photography that are so commonplace as to have become cliches. They're the type of photographs every single tourist has taken with a given monument since handheld cameras became commonplace.</p>
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<p>If you pick up a <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/Portugal/Faro/" target="_blank">car hire Faro</a> for a relaxing beach-side holiday, take a day to drive up to Lisbon for one of the most striking examples of this type of photography. Baixa-Chiado is one of the most charming quarters of the city, perfect for a bit of sightseeing and some window shopping. Here you will find one of the most historical cafes in the city, A Brasileira. Sitting outside, among the tourist-filled tables, is a statue of Fernando Pessoa, a Portuguese poet who is almost akin to a national institution. Next to Pessoa is an empty seat, which never stays empty for long since 90% of the tourists take the chance to get their picture taken next to him. Everyone does, it's as important a part of a trip to Lisbon as going to Belém for some of their heavenly custard tarts, the popular Pastéis de Belém.</p>
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<p>Pisa is another good example of photographs that never get old. It is almost an ironclad tradition that anyone visiting the Leaning Tower has to have their photo taken as if they were holding up the side of the tower, stopping it from toppling over. Another often-used trick is to stand far away from a monument, holding up your fingers in front of the camera as if you were holding it with your index finger and thumb and snap a shot. The Eiffel Tower, the Lincon Monument, the Pyramids, it works on anything.</p>
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<p>It's cliched and it has been done thousands - perhaps millions - of times before, but it's also a fun way to pay homage to all the other global citizens who've come before you, and who like you thought that was a clever idea worth repeating. After all, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.</p>5 Things 'Sherlock' Taught Me About Traveltag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-05-15:3169359:BlogPost:3960392012-05-15T16:18:31.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g4MX9YUA3s8/Tz6nVbKOGcI/AAAAAAAABQU/_Amn5mII-QU/s640/sherlock_uk-show.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g4MX9YUA3s8/Tz6nVbKOGcI/AAAAAAAABQU/_Amn5mII-QU/s640/sherlock_uk-show.jpg"></img></a></p>
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<p>Sherlock Holmes was such a beloved character even during Arthur Conan Doyle's life that when the author - sick and tired of his creation - tried to kill him off, the public outcry was of so epic a magnitude that Conan Doyle had no other choice but to bring the detective back from the dead. It is, therefore, not surprising, that over half…</p>
<p><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g4MX9YUA3s8/Tz6nVbKOGcI/AAAAAAAABQU/_Amn5mII-QU/s640/sherlock_uk-show.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g4MX9YUA3s8/Tz6nVbKOGcI/AAAAAAAABQU/_Amn5mII-QU/s640/sherlock_uk-show.jpg" class="align-center"/></a></p>
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<p>Sherlock Holmes was such a beloved character even during Arthur Conan Doyle's life that when the author - sick and tired of his creation - tried to kill him off, the public outcry was of so epic a magnitude that Conan Doyle had no other choice but to bring the detective back from the dead. It is, therefore, not surprising, that over half a century after Arthur Conan Doyle's death, his works and their adaptations continue to enjoy such popularity. There are many things one can learn from watching BBC's Sherlock (not the least of which that Moffat likes to torture his audience - as if we didn't know), but here is what Sherlock taught me about travel.</p>
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<p><strong>Get Help From Of The Baker Street Irregulars</strong> - When planning your holidays, it's not usually hard to come across a lot of information. Gone are the days when you actually had to buy a guide if you wanted to learn more about a destination; now you can simply go online and learn everything you ever wanted to know about <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/portugal/faro/" target="_blank">Portugal</a> and more in the time it takes you to read a Wikipedia entry. But the types of information have also changed. Don't just look for tourism sites and travel agencies. Look for forums, blog posts, twitter feeds. Factual information is great, but it can't hold a candle to tips from real people.</p>
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<p><strong>Use Pants To Visit The Queen (Unless Your Last Name Is Holmes)</strong> - What is considered proper attire varies a lot from country to country, and depends not only on the country itself, but also on the sort of place you're visiting. For instance, it's common sense that you probably shouldn't wear the same to a church that you wear to the beach, but there are occasions when it isn't always clear that you should dress a certain way. Learn about what is considered respectful locally and abide by that.</p>
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<p><strong>He May Look Like Molly's Harmless Boyfriend But He's Actually A Criminal Master Mind</strong> - Meeting new people is all part of the fun of travelling. Despite that, you should be cautious and exercise good sense. If you're visiting a place with someone you have just met, make sure you stick to places with lots of people around. Also, don't give them more information about yourself than is reasonable for a short-time acquaintance (your e-mail is fine; your home address and social security number are probably a bit too much).</p>
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<p><strong>Cuffs Get In The Way Of Running</strong> - More than the perfect moment for a bit of fangirling, the occasion when Sherlock and John have to run away cuffed to each other is actually a pretty good metaphor for what it sometimes feels to travel with someone else (or is it just me?). When travelling with someone, it's important to account for different tastes, opinions and ideas of what constitutes an ideal holiday. Rather than each trying to tug the rope their own way, learn to compromise. Discover what things both find enjoyable and make allowances for the other person's opinions and interests when making shared plans. Don't be afraid to schedule some alone time for yourself as well. Just because you're travelling together, it doesn't mean you have to be in each other's company 24/7.</p>
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<p><strong>How Could Mycroft Run The Country Without His Smartphone</strong> - Sometimes it feels like technology is running our lives, and in a way it really is. But in many ways, technology does make life far more convenient. When you travel, a smartphone is like a small laptop that fits in your pocket and where you can carry a whole world of information. It allows you to show off your holidays on Facebook, update your Twitter feed or even browse Tumblr while waiting for the bus. Instead of making physical copies of your documents, simply scan them at home and email them to yourself, so they're always available to you should you need them. Many smartphones even have GPS, so you never need fear getting lost.</p>Heritage Tourism: Shipwreckstag:frugalnomads.ning.com,2012-05-13:3169359:BlogPost:3961102012-05-13T14:14:29.000ZAgnes Rileyhttps://frugalnomads.ning.com/profile/AgnesRiley
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120510_ship.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="align-center" src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120510_ship.jpg"></img></a></p>
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<p>For centuries, humanity has been awe in the ocean. It was a source of sustenance, a road for trade and for the discoveries of new worlds, the last frontier. If it's true that life began in the sea, then that does much to explain our ages-long love affair with the ocean. In older times, the sea was also a place of countless dangers, where sea monsters roamed the waters and the…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120510_ship.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.globalmediaserver.com/blog/img/20120510_ship.jpg" class="align-center"/></a></p>
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<p>For centuries, humanity has been awe in the ocean. It was a source of sustenance, a road for trade and for the discoveries of new worlds, the last frontier. If it's true that life began in the sea, then that does much to explain our ages-long love affair with the ocean. In older times, the sea was also a place of countless dangers, where sea monsters roamed the waters and the abyss awaited those who dared approach the ends of the world. Nowadays, there are many shipwrecks that became famous tourist attractions and which delight divers and sea explorers from around the world. Wreck diving popularity is increasing and more and more people wish to take part in this exhilarating activity. Here are some of the most famous wreck diving spots.</p>
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<p><strong>RMS Rhone, British Virgin Islands</strong> - The RMS Rhone was a British Ship that sank off the coast of Salt Island during a hurricane in the late 19th century. Nowadays, the wreck is considered one of the best diving sites in the world, and the whole area is a national park. The remains of the Rhone are home to countless fish, lobsters and crabs. The wreck also has a "lucky porthole", a brass porthole which remains intact and that divers rub for good luck.</p>
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<p><strong>USS Oriskany, <a href="http://www.auto-europe.co.uk/go/car-hire/us/florida/" target="_blank">Florida</a></strong> - Not all wreck diving sites result from accidental shipwrecks. Sometimes, when a ship is decommissioned, it is sunk in order to make a reef. That was the case with the USS Oriskany. This battleship, nicknamed the Mighty O, was sunk in 2006 off the coast of Florida. It was named by The Times one of the best wreck diving sites in the world, and is popularly known as the "Great Carrier Reef". It is currently "the largest vessel ever sunk to make a reef."</p>
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<p><strong>MS Zenobia, Cyprus</strong> - Also considered one of the best spots for wreck diving, this shipwreck off the coast of Cyprus is that of the MS Zenobia, a Swedish ship that sank in 1979. She became a very popular attraction for divers who visit the country and presents different levels of difficulty for less experienced divers and for more advanced divers alike.</p>
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<p><strong>MS Mikhail Lermontov, New Zealand</strong> - The MS Mikhail Lermontov was a Soviet ocean line which sank near Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand in 1986. The ship is currently one of the biggest diveable wrecks in the world, and it's quite popular in the diving community. While entering the ship is possible, it is advisable doing it only with a guide familiar with the wreck.</p>
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<p><strong>Scapa Flow, UK</strong> - After the rendition of Germany in WWI, part of the German fleet was in the waters of Scapa Flow, in Scotland. In order for the ships not to fall into British hands, the fleet's Admiral ordered all the ships to be sunk. More ships sank in the area during WWII. The site is great for scuba diving, since there aren't many other spots in the world where you can find so many ships in such close proximity. Two of the wrecks, the HMS Royal Oak and the HMS Vanguard, cannot be visited, since they are considered war graves and, as such, they are protected sites. However, there are many other sites of interest in the area.</p>