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Traveling with diabetes

Having diabetes should not necessarily confine you to the 4 walls of your room. Though, carrying an insulin pump may seem daunting. Your passion for traveling and exploring can still be realized but with extra care.

Luckily, one effective way to help control diabetes is through leading a healthy, active life. Meaning, while traveling may not be very convenient for you. It’s subconsciously helpful. Since, traveling is the key to a happy, fulfilling life. A well-planned trip will keep you stress-free and your blood glucose levels in check.

Jonni Lightfoot is a living proof that having diabetes doesn’t mean you need to quit traveling. As a leader of the band, Air Supply. Jonni traveled around the world to play for the band. All while being diabetic. On average, he’d spend nearly 200 days a year traveling.

Similarly, to help you plan your next trip. Here’s something to keep in mind when traveling

Essentials

Insulin pump and supplies accordingly.

Strips and a testing equipment to measure blood glucose levels.

A medical id and a log.

Your prescription signed by the doctor.

A quick source of glucose enriched snacks and tablets.

Is it the best idea to travel with diabetes?

First things first, consult your doctor. Take his opinion on whether you should plan the trip or not. It’s better to be prepared than face unexpected health issues during traveling. Moreover, ask your doctor to provide you a written evaluation in case you feel unfit to travel. You can provide the doctor’s written statement as an evidence to the traveling vendor for a possible refund. Moreover, ask yourself if you’re mentally and physically prepared to travel. If you’ve just been diagnosed with diabetes and have never traveled with the condition. It’s smartest to experiment on shorter trips first. If you can easily handle your blood glucose levels. Step up the game. Long vacations are not necessarily bad for diabetic patients but it’s better to be safe and be comfortable than risking your well-being.

Bring your traveling plans into the knowledge of your doctor

As we mentioned earlier. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Before heading out, make sure you aware the doctor of your plans and seek an opinion. If your doctor clears you fit to travel, ask your doctor to write you a prescription to cover your vacation. In case you’re traveling abroad, ask your doctor to prescribe you alternate prescription too. In addition to the original prescription. So if you’re unable to find the original medicine, you can easily find a reliable substitute. Your safety is most important. It’s best to bring along extra medicine in case you lose some during your travel. Perfectly quoted by a travel expert;

“Always take a little extra medication. Never assume that just because you’re scheduled to fly back on the 14th, you’re going to get home on the 14th.” _ Doug Dyment

Similarly ask your doctor to write you a list including your medicine, equipment, and food. This will serve as an evidence while boarding flights. Saving you the hassle of airport security confiscating your items since no food items are allowed on board.

Choosing to travel to the right place

You know your condition well, you know what temperatures are suitable for you and what not. So when deciding to travel, you must make sure you’re traveling to an optimal location. Extreme temperatures, cold or hot can cause your blood glucose level to fluctuate. Also compromising the efficiency of your testing equipment. So, when in hot regions, keep yourself hydrated at all times and restrain from carrying out strenuous activity during the day. Moreover, don’t leave your medication in the car during daylight. The high temperatures can spoil the medicine. Similarly, when traveling in colder regions, be well prepared against the cold. Extreme cold temperature can cause your blood glucose level to rise. Don’t leave your medication unattended in your car. Just like heat, extreme cold can weaken the insulin.

An extra precaution

When traveling with someone, it’s important for them to know you’re diabetic. So in case you feel sick, they can assist you and help you. But when traveling alone, you must be more careful since there’s nobody to assist you or know you’re diabetic. In such cases, it’s better to go all out in terms of safety and wellbeing. While traveling alone, wear a medical bracelet and fill it with your personal information as well as your medical condition. In case something happens, people will know you’re condition and assist you accordingly. Also, carry a bag with yourself at all times to keep your medication close. When visiting a country that speaks any other language than English, it gets super difficult to communicate. It’s better to be prepared for anything. To break through the language barrier, write your prescription in the host language and have it with you at all times. So that you’re prepared for anything.

Maintaining your blood glucose level

Apart from temperature. The climate conditions such as humidity can affect your testing equipment and may cause slight inefficiency. While humidity may necessarily not affect your blood glucose levels, it may cause itching and swelling. To tackle this, bring along some powder or a cream to moisten the skin. While vacationing, it’s likely you’ll be walking a lot. Excessive activity can cause blood glucose levels to spike especially due to a change in weather and activity.

Always stay hydrated and keep on checking your blood glucose levels before and after physical activity or meals to ensure it’s in the optimal range. A source of glucose will give you a quick boost. Also, try restraining from stressful activities.

Planning ahead of time

For an uninterrupted vacation, it’s important you have everything figured out. From the hotel, you’ll be staying at to your medication. A slight ignorance can ruin your experience. Before booking a hotel, make sure it’s close to a pharmacy. Most hotels provide refrigerators for free in guest rooms, this will be handy for storing your medication. Another thing you must have planned ahead of are security checks at the airport. When approaching for a security check. Make sure you have the medication letter we talked about earlier as well as your liquids stored in original containers with your name. So the security can cross check and clear you without a hassle.

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Women’s travel clothing

So you’ve had your eyes on a perfect getaway vacation for a long-long time. You’re already done with reservations. The entire trip is sorted out and you are all set to explore. Until you open your closet and find yourself spiraling into an everlasting dilemma on what to bring along. Ask any female traveler and they’ll tell you the same. While, choosing to travel is the easiest decision you can take, choosing what to bring along? Not so much.

So ladies, to help you decide. Here are some things to consider while packing for your getaway.

What’s your Baggage Allowance?

Knowing your limits helps air passengers to pack accordingly. When flying from UK please check your luggage allowance with your airline or travel agent.

Different Luggage Allowances

Flights between UK Airports to European & American destinations operate with lesser luggage allowance. On a last trip taken by Tandiwe Ndeble from London to Nice was booked by Nigel Benjamin (Travel Consultant). Nigel advised in written and verbally to client that you are only authorized to take hand carry of max 15kg. Passengers are allowed to take 23 kg baggage with additional cost of 26GBP.

Same client recently took a return trip to Johannesburg and she traveled on Kenya Airways. African airlines are generous on luggage allowances. A bag of 12kg as hand carry and 23kg x 2 bags for checked inn bags is normally sufficient for passengers.

Note: — Baggage for Premium economy, business & first class is better than economy class passengers.

More advice on luggage allowance from UK is published by below authentic resources.

Hand luggage restrictions at UK airports

So once you have info in place about your packing limits. Let’s get on business.

So once you have info in place about your packing limits. Let’s get on business.

Essentials

First things first. Before we get into details on what to bring along, let’s talk about essentials. Basically, these are the things you must NOT forget on your trip regardless of your travel intention.

Whether you’re visiting someone or traveling for pleasure. Personal care items, personal hygiene items, important documents, and prescribed medication (if you take any) should be on the top of your list. Followed by your clothes, shoes, fashion accessories, and electronics. And yes! How can we forget the first aid kit? One must always be prepared for an emergency.

Why, When & Where?

Too much WH! Sorry but I could not help it. But why are you traveling?

Answer it the right way please, because this is going to help you fix the Do & Don’t.

The second question is when?

This shall help you pre-plan your flight, ride for airport, accommodation and multiple things.

If it’s an urgent travel, then you must be a smart fellow to organize things well, or your Best friend is travel agent.

Third is where?

Climate sounds like the word I heard before! Oh yes it’s about places. Know where you are going, is best strategy, read about place, and learn about climate to know what to pack? Dig into the culture a little bit before you go, it helps you stick to the customs of the place and earns you respect.

Catching some sun

It’s much difficult to choose the right apparel when traveling to a hotter region as compared to a colder region. Since there’s no need for an extra layer of clothing over the upper-ware like in colder regions. You have no alternative but to choose the dresses that bring out the best in you. In this case, versatility is the key. You must choose vibrant colors and match them with different skirts, jeans, shorts, and tights. Add on some jewelry and fashion accessories and you’ll be flexing hard on everyone. Depending upon the duration of your stay, pack a couple shirts (half sleeves and sleeveless), a few sundresses and some fashionable tops and you’re ready to go.

East and west, snow is the best

If you prefer snow over the sun and drinking hot chocolate at cafes rather than sipping cocktails on the beach, you must choose your apparel accordingly. Since temperatures at such regions can plummet at night. It’s vital to stay warm and cozy. In this case, wool gloves, thick socks and a few coats and jackets are your best friends. Throw in a couple scarfs and beanies too to flare up your look.

Packing the right way

With the essentials checked off the list. It’s time to pack your bags. The best technique is to be as organized as possible. For example, fold your garments neatly and put them in one bag while preferring a different bag or a kit for your fashion accessories. Including make up, brushes, skin care items and things alike. Don’t stuff everything into one bag. It’ll be a huge mess when you unpack. For documents and smaller items, a handbag is all you need. It’s convenient and you can easily carry it around at all times. Depending upon the duration of your vacation. If you’re going away for a longer time. You might need a bigger bag or for that matter multiple bags. Similarly you can opt for packing cubes. They come with vacuum to maximize the storage capacity but may wrinkle your clothes. Just 21st century things.

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United Airlines

United airline was established by the amalgamation of several airlines in the late 1920s, and was founded in 1926.It is the world’s third-largest airline when measured by revenue. United has nine hubs, but Chicago-O’Hare is its main hub. United operates to 235 destinations and 138 international destinations in 60 countries across Asia, America, Africa, Europe, and Oceania.

As of May 2018, United air has a fleet of 754 airplanes including Airbus A319–100 , Airbus A320–200, Boeing 737–700 and more.

14 aircraft to be acquired from China Southern Airlines. 20 aircraft to be acquired from Easy Jet with deliveries beginning from 2020–2021.

United Air Carry On Baggage:

One full-sized carry-on bag 9 inches x 14 inches x 22 inches (22 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm) plus one personal item 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm) that is free like Laptop bag.

Carry On baggage must not exceed more than 10Kgs.

Baggage Allowance:

The maximum exterior dimension of standard checked baggage is 62 inches(158 cm), including handles and wheels.

The maximum weight for checked baggage is based on the class of service but in general 32 Kgs one piece is allowed.

United Air Promotional Offers:

United airlines prices for different destinations

Denver,US(DEN) to London Heathrow(LHR) £717

Houston,US(IAH) to Sydney,AU(SYD) £1380

Newyork,US(NYC) to Reykjavik,IS(KEF) £345

Newark,US(EWR) to Porto,PT(OPO)

United Air Code share agreements:

United code shared with many Airlines but the major are:

· Air Canada

· Air China

· Air India

· Air New Zealand

· Ethiopian Airlines

· Turkish Airlines

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Summer Holidays 2018

Summer holidays (also called summer vacation or summer break) is a school holiday in summer that is the longest break in the school year. Students and instructors are off school typically between 8 and 14 weeks, depending on the country and district.

In United Kingdom, summer holidays for state schools usually last from the second half of July through to early September which gives a duration of six or seven weeks. In 2018 most educational institutes of U.K are planning to give a break from Friday 20th JULY to Monday 3rd September.

Summer is without doubt the most popular time for most of us to travel, escape, and disconnect for a few days or weeks. Due to the famously unpredictable weather in the UK, most Brits head straight for sunnier climates abroad without even thinking about it. In fact, many of them will have booked cheap flights months in advance.

When we think about summer school holidays we imagine families playing on a sandy beach. We hear the laughter of kids enjoying days out with their parents and the smell of barbecues and suntan lotion. Basically we imagine all the best bits of summer holidays like – couples in love, parents at ease and relaxed with their kids. Everyone having a great time.

Although July and August are clearly the most popular months, certain weeks within these were preferred by different types of travelers. Couples tended to go for the first week of the month, especially the 1st-6th August. Families seem to prefer the one after, flying between the 7th-13th. But overall, as of last year the most popular day for people to start their summer holidays was 8th August.

As a survey from last year for July and August clearly show that beach tourism is generally Europeans’ favourite type of summer holiday. But more specifically, English, French and German tourists flock to international destinations. These include European and North African capitals, and not just seaside locations. In contrast,  the Spanish and Italians, blessed with their own, home-grown sunny beaches, head to their national islands.

For summer 2011, flights to Lisbon were popular with both British families and couples, but they also visited places as diverse as Athens, Barcelona, Malaga and Milan. The first choice for French couples and families was Barcelona, but they also headed to Portugal and North Africa, particularly Marrakesh and Tunisia. Germans continue to be in love with Palma de Mallorca, which took the top spot for both couples and families. But they visited destinations famed for culture, art and architecture too, including London, Athens, Istanbul and Lisbon.

The summer holidays are fast approaching. As much as you love spending extra time with the kids, it can be a challenge trying to keep them entertained for six full weeks. School may be out, but that doesn’t mean kids can’t continue to develop their physical literacy skills during the summer holidays. So its very important for one to spend summer holidays with kids on good destinations to develop their senses and to learn more.

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Visit Malaysia’s Capital City Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital city of Malaysia, boasting gleaming skyscrapers, colonial architecture, charming locals, and a myriad of natural attractions. People should book flights to Kuala Lampur and experience its beauty.

Batu Caves

Located in the province of Selangor, Kuala Lumpur sprang up from a humble tin mining outpost in the 1800s and has become a metropolitan city fused with countless cultures and languages.

Its sleek, new airport resembles an immense moon colony and has quiet super-speed trains housed in its extensive terminals. The federal capital of Malaysia and the primary center for commerce, arts and entertainment, modern Kuala Lumpur still retains the character and culture of its heritage.

The Petronas Towers

The skyline includes the tallest buildings in the world, the twin Petronas Towers. Tours up to the skybridge are free and include a short film about the construction and design of the towers which is based on an Islamic motif. The beautiful tiled interior walls and the spectacular view from the skybridge are definitely worth waiting in line, though the free passes should be picked up early in the day as they are limited.

Next door, the KLCC is a labyrinth of a shopping center rivaling those in London or New York. It has fabulous restaurants, food courts and cafes; with its diverse peoples, any cuisine can be found in KL.

Most of the shops at KLCC are over-priced name brand retailers; for a more authentic cultural shopping experience head to Central Market for local art and handicrafts and the sprawling street markets of Chinatown for bargains.

National Mosque and Islamic Arts Museum

The National Mosque, Jalan Perdana, located across from Kuala Lumpur’s historic railway station, has a bright blue rooftop with 18 points each representing the 13 provinces of Malaysia and the five pillars of Islam.

Nearby the Islamic Arts Museum houses artifacts from all over the globe. The museum has a stunning Moroccan theme restaurant perfect for tea or lunch afterward. Also visit the Sultan’s palace. Malaysia has 9 sultans; they each take the official throne in Kuala Lumpur for five year terms: a very fair arrangement.

Templer’s Park

North of the city center, over 200 steps lead to the Batu Caves, an ancient Hindu shrine which sits atop a huge limestone outcropping. Nearby is Templer’s Park, a green oasis with waterfalls, mountain streams and jungle trails canopied by mature trees. It’s a popular place for picnics, photography and hiking.

Hotels in Kuala Lumpur

For more peaceful surroundings, especially if you’re traveling with children, it’s best to stay in a hotel a short drive away from the grimy city center. Cyberjaya Resort is located close to the cities of Putrajaya and Shah Alam, and has a shuttle bus to the city center. Its comfortable rooms and spa make it an ideal place to begin and end each day in Kuala Lumpur.

Putrajaya, Shah Alam

Putrajaya, one of Malaysia’s newest cities, was built to be the administrative capital and has its own sight-seeing destinations. The parliament building is an impressive architectural feat incorporating Malay and Islamic design, such as turquoise Mughal style domes as well as western and contemporary features.

The building and its intricately landscaped gardens are open for guided tours. However, be sure to bring your passport; you’ll also need it to tour the Prime Minister’s residence; though there isn’t much to see.

The fuchsia-domed Putra Mosque is another example of impressive architecture worth visiting. The mosque consists of an immense, elegant prayer hall which can hold 15,000 people, the sahn or courtyard and a library.

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Why do you have to adjust to clock today! Eat, Sleep & Repeat has to be adjusted today. This Blog will make you understand why this time change in UK happens. What is the history of British Summer Time? Daylight Saving Time was created by William Willett in 1907 in a bid to stop people wasting valuable hours of light in the summer months. By setting the clocks back in winter, Brits get an earlier sunrise and earlier sunset. In summer the sun rises and sets one hour later than it would without daylight saving. In a pamphlet called “The Waste of Daylight” Willett suggested clocks should be advanced by 80 minutes over four stages in April, and reversed the same way in September. Germany became the first country to adopt the clock-changing plan on April 30, 1916, in order to save on coal usage, and on May 21, Britain followed, as World War One was underway. The Summer Time Act of 1916 was passed by Parliament and the first day of British summer was reported as May 21, 1916. Supporters at the time of the proposal argued the scheme would save energy by reducing domestic coal consumption. They also said it would increase supplies available for manufacturing the war effort during WW1. It has been in place ever since – despite criticism from some groups. Some critics argue BST should be completely abolished and Britain should operate on GMT permanently. They argue there is little practical gain from changing the time twice a year and the process is disruptive to schools and business.

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Seven Best Scenic Drives in Idaho Seven Best Scenic Drives in Idaho https://goo.gl/dmHgea

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Seven Best Scenic Drives in Idaho Idaho is a large and beautiful state. There are towering snowcapped mountains, gurgling streams, rapid rivers, the excitement of the city and the solitude of the plains. Guests can spend days hiking wilderness trails, whitewater rafting or checking out the world renowned golfing greens. But to truly get an understanding of the best of Idaho tourism, then take a road trip along its scenic roadways to discover Idaho’s delights and treasures. Scenic Trails of Idaho’s North and South In the northern region of the state where sparkling lakes abound, tourist will find the Lake Coeur D’Alene Scenic Byway. Considered one of the most beautiful drives in Idaho, the Lake Coeur D’Alene road trip is a fantastic way to see Idaho’s wildlife like deer, elk and moose as well as its feathered friends such as the bald eagle and osprey. Be sure to bring along some binoculars. In the north central region of Idaho is the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway. Travelling along highways 12 and 13, drivers can trace the path followed by Lewis and Clark. Along the way, travelers will pass the Clearwater and Lochsa Rivers, drive along steep mountain ridges and get an up-close look at the land of the Nez Perce Indians. The trip last approximately 4.5 hours and is 191 miles long. The southwestern region of Idaho is characterized by rolling valleys, hot springs, towering trees and high mountains. It offers 6 scenic drives, but the most famous one is Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. Along this roadway, guests will see the deepest river gorge in North America, the canyons of Idaho, and be able to watch wildlife. To fully appreciate the sites along the way, spend some time at the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area in Cambridge. From the towering granite structures in the City of Rocks to the amazing animals at Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge, the South Central region of Idaho has much to offer, like the 49 miles of the City of Rocks Backcountry Byway. The road begins in Albion and ends in the historic town of Oakley. Be sure to spend some time in the City of Rocks, a special favorite for those who enjoy hiking and rock climbing. In southeastern Idaho history abounds. From the old west town of Franklin to the traditions of the Shoshone and Bannock Indians there is much to see. Travel along the 127 mile Pioneer Historic Byway to see the town of Franklin, the Lake Wildlife Refuge and the city of Preston where the movie “Napoleon Dynamite” was filmed. Also, in the region are the stunningly beautiful sights seen along the Oregon Trail-Bear Lake Scenic Byway. Scenic Trails of Idaho’s Central and Eastern Regions The eastern region of Idaho is the home of the Grand Tetons, the Lemhi Mountain Range and the meandering turns of the Snake River. To fully appreciate these sights and more, set course for the Teton Scenic Byway or the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway. The roads are abundant in delightful sights such as the ranchland of the Teton Valley, the towering peaks of the Tetons, and the thunderous beauty of the Mesa Falls. Central Idaho is the home of the Stanley Basin, the Sawtooth Mountains and the Salmon River and is enjoyed by many with a whitewater rafting trip down this famed river. However, driving the 162 mile Salmon River Scenic Byway also offers plenty of opportunity for adventure. While travelling the Byway, be sure to visit the Sacajawea Interpretive and Education Center, the ghost town of Custer and the Land of the Yankees State Park. Idaho tourism offers many roadside adventures. There are ghost towns, historic locations and big cities all offering adventures of every sort. Come discover the majestic mountains, rolling rivers, picturesque plains and verdant valleys of this beautiful state. There’s so much to see and do that guests come back over and over again. Come join the adventure!

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Great Vacation Spots Sand Dune Destinations: Nature's Sand Boxes Make Fields of sand dunes all around the country, many of them national parks, recreation areas or monuments, or state parks, offer unique outdoor fun. People of all ages love playing in the sand, and the United States is dotted with natural sand boxes from the seashore to the mountains. These areas offer a variety of activities, from climbing to sliding, camping, exploring, stargazing, and even camel treks. Great Sand Dunes National Monument, Colorado Prevailing winds carried sand from an ancient riverbed and piled it against the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in southern Colorado, creating the highest dunes in North America. Those who climb to the top of the 700 foot dunes are rewarded with fabulous views of the dune field, chilly Medano Creek below, and the mountains. Other popular activities are sliding, boarding (similar to snow boarding), and even skiing down the dunes. This national park includes a campground and ranger activities on a regular basis. White Sands National Monument, New Mexico Aptly named, this 275-square-mile sugar bowl contains the world's largest gypsum dune field, a sharp contrast to the surrounding Chihuahuan desert. Start with exhibits at the visitor's center museum, which has information on ranger-led programs, including stargazing and full-moon nights - truly a sight to see. The center also has trail guides for a self-guided nature tour of the Big Dune Trail. This park also has picnic areas and plenty of space for climbing, digging, and just exploring. Accommodations available in nearby Alamagordo, NM. Monahans Sandhills State Park, Texas Exhibits at the Dunagan Visitor Center chronicle the history and geology of the dunes, which have attracted human inhabitants for 12,000 years. The park has picnic areas, and hiking trails explore the dunes and a field of the world's smallest oak trees. The park headquarters rents sand disks for hours of fun sliding down the dunes, which can reach 70 feet high. Overnight camel treks and an equestrian day use area are also available. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan This scenic swath of dunes abuts the shore of Lake Michigan. The Visitor Center, located in Empire, Michigan, provides information on the park and ranger-led programs. Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive winds seven miles through the dunes and views of Lake Michigan, Glen Lake, and the Manitou Islands, with observation points and picnic areas along the way. For the best place to climb, head north on M-22 from Empire and take M-109 to the aptly named Dune Climb. The Climb includes a picnic area, restrooms, vending machines, and a bookstore. Many climbers run or roll back down the dunes. Jockey's Ridge State Park, North Carolina This field of sand contains the highest dune on the Atlantic coast, and visitors enjoy sandboarding, kiteboarding, and hang gliding. Other popular activities are picniking and hiking through the dunes and on the Southside Nature Trail, which explores grassy dunes, a wetland, and a maritime thicket. The park's exhibit hall includes displays on the area's nature, culture and history, including what the dunes are made of and how they formed. Those planning a visit to sand dune fields may want to invest in their own sliding disks, which are available at many recreation stores. Closed toed shoes are a must in summer, when the sand is very hot. It can be easy to get lost in a field of sand dunes, so explorers should stick to marked trails or populated areas unless equipped with a GPS or other navigation device.

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Travel to Asmara Eritrea - How I Survive a Plane Crash An account of the 2001 Yemenia plane crash in Asmara, Eritrea, as witnessed from Seat 19B. The flight had already been in trouble, turning round inexplicably mid-flight, some twenty-four hours previously, with the official explanation of bad weather in Asmara openly questioned (it was a one-hour flight), and rumours of computer failure abounding. On board was a slowly decomposing body, being escorted by a grieving brother and denied refrigeration in the ensuing forced sojourn in Sana'a. The runway came into view a few feet below us. We continued to fly and didn’t seem to be nearing it at all. When we finally did land, at high speed, I sat back a little perturbed, but I was soon caught up in the emotion on the plane. The Eritreans were cheering and clapping rhythmically. Their nightmare ordeal was over and they were back on home soil. Literally. The cheers gave way to stunned silence as the plane left the runway and continued to travel. I remember clutching on to the underside of my seat and looking at Jorgen. He was looking at me, not terrified, but as a soldier, trained for the worst. It was like being in a four by four jeep, except that we were in a 727. We had a bumpy ride for some seconds and then we came to a halt at about thirty degrees. I have always been somewhat blasé about wearing seat-belts on planes, but those belts saved me and others from serious injury, as our bodies were thrust forward by the decelerating plane. Without the belt, I am sure that I would have been propelled several rows forward. The silence continued for a few moments, as people collected themselves. There was no screaming, no panic. I looked at Jorgen and he at me. There was nothing to say. We looked out of the window and could see the wing below us embedded in the grass. The wheels had left the aircraft some metres back. And then the strangest thing. Here we were, in a crashed plane, whose evacuation should have been a priority, and passengers were casually undoing seat-belts, then standing up, at an angle due to the plane’s final resting position, then opening the overhead lockers to retrieve their hand luggage, as though the landing had been textbook after all. Because of the broken wing and lopsided plane, only two of the emergency exits, one at the front and one at the rear, were available. We were going down the chutes. Everything was still calm and I waited in the aisle with all the others, when a certain commotion broke out ahead. And then the word came back in Tigrinyan, not a language I am familiar with, but I understood one word - benzin. Now there was more urgency, but I was calm and managed to pacify a terrified lady behind me. And so it was down the chute with the smell of leaking fuel in my nostrils. The man in front of me had been in a wheelchair, but this was no time for niceties and he was flung onto the black chute. I escaped to 100 metres away and then took stock. The plane was fucked. Fire engines were quickly on the scene and everyone stayed calm. Jorgen took out his camera to record the crash, but he was prevented from doing so by Eritrean officials, we were not sure why. Within minutes, the Eritreans were laughing again, as this just one more episode in a nightmare saga, but at least they were finally home. I thought of the corpse on the plane. The crew was shell-shocked. The two pilots, their careers surely over in what was a clear case of pilot error, stood there in stunned silence, but a stewardess was muttering angrily. I went over to see if she was okay and she addressed me in English: “It was all wrong. Passengers should get off first, they should not have retrieved their luggage. They should have got off.” We had gone against the textbook procedure for surviving the plane crash and, to her, that was unforgivable, worse than the crash itself. She was obviously in deep shock. Thinking back, the stewardesses had been conspicuous by their absence in the cabin. I suppose it must have been they who opened the emergency exits, but there had been no leadership, no instructions. They must have trained for such an eventuality, but never expected to ever use that training. Miraculously, nobody was even slightly injured. So that is what it was like to be in a plane crash. But you know what, there is some good news? The oxygen masks do come down automatically.

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Looking to Fly to Cameroon in Summer 2018? Then Its best time to explore your flights to Duoala. Ask Airfares Cart for cheap flights and make use of #Paylaterflights to Duoala. http://bit.ly/2tVrzTi

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Salt Plains of Salar de Uyuni Bolivia Take a Jeep Tour to the World's Biggest Salt Sea While the star of the show is the huge salt lake of Salar de Uyuni, the world's largest at 10,582 km², there’s much more to see in this southwest region in Departmento Potosi . The stark landscape is pierced with dramatic rock formations and lakes, coloured red, turquoise and green by minerals. Herds of llamas and the more elegant vicunas roam the Andean countryside while huge cacti stretch up towards a cloudless blue sky. Travellers can soak in hot springs, watch flocks of flamingos feeding in the lakes and observe the simple but hard life of Andean villagers. Salar de Uyuni Highlights Uyuni Salt Lake is located on the Bolivian high plateau at 3650 m. In the wet season flood waters produce a surreal mirror effect. On this vast white plain there is only one building, the Salt Hotel. Constructed from salt it features carved salt figures as well as salt furniture. Isla Del Pescado (Fish Island) Located at the centre of the Salar de Uyunithis fish-shaped island is the largest in the group of oasis-type ecosystems. Its landscape of rock and huge cacti in contrast with a pure white sea of salt is very photogenic. Laguna Colorada (Red Lagoon) At 4,278 meters above sea level this beautiful reddish coloured lake is inhabited by 3 species of flamingos and is a major site for observing these graceful birds. Sol de Mañana (Morning Sun) Located at 4,900 m geysers, fumaroles and volcanic craters with boiling lava are a fascinating visit . Arbol de Piedra (Rock Tree) Probably the most photographed rock formation, however many others are equally as interesting. These towering and impossibly shaped formations are best seen early morning in the golden glow of sunlight. Salar de Uyuni Tours & Costs Standard tours cost about USD50/day per person in a jeep of 4 including accommodation and all meals. Companies compete fiercely for clients on the Salar de Uyuni route. It’s advisable to take care when selecting a tour company by referring to traveller’s blogs and guide books. Cheaper tours generally offer less comfort. Consider tolerance to bumpy roads, cold temperatures, high altitude and whether the guide speaks English. There is also a greater chance of poorly maintained vehicles breaking down on cheaper tours. Getting to the Salar de Uyuni International flights arrive at Bolivia’s capital La Paz. From here there are regular flights to the town of Uyuni , the departure point for most tours. Tours also depart for the Salar from San Pedro de Atacama in neighbouring Chile. The Salar is also accessible from northwest Argentina. Tours depart from the small town of Tupiza, a few hours north of the Argentine border, finishing in Uyuni. For direct flights visit https://goo.gl/Di3xqC Best Time to Visit the Salar de Uyuni The wet, and warmer season, is between November and March when flood waters turn the Salar into a giant mirror. However rain can also make roads impassable. The dry season, April to October, is much colder (temperatures can be as low as -20C) but a more popular time to travel. While the flamingos are always there, they are more numerous in September. Health at Altitude Acclimatize to the altitude before setting off into remote areas like Uyuni and beyond. Drink plenty of water, use good sun protection (including hat, sunscreen and sunglasses) and warm clothing.

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Inti Wara Yassi, Bolivia A Volunteer Vacation Helping Animals at a Bolivian Wildlife Refuge Volunteer vacations can cost thousands of dollars a week and often the volunteer leaves unsure that he or she has actually helped. Inti Wara Yassi’s Parque Machia, a wildlife refuge just outside the small town of Villa Tunari, Bolivia, offers the chance to volunteer for only $120 US per week (which covers your lodging) and you'll likely come away with a strong sense of having helped at least one mistreated animal. It is also possible to volunteer at Inti Wara Yassi’s new refuge at Parque Ambue Ari, but this article will focus on the Parque Machia site. About Inti Wara Yassi The first Inti Wara Yassi wildlife refuge was founded at Parque Machia by Juan Carlos Antezana in 1992. The goal of the refuge is the rehabilitation and release of mistreated animals, many of them endangered, including monkeys, birds, turtles and wild cats. These animals have survived abuse and malnourishment. Many have been captured in the wild as babies and sold on the black market to private homes, hotels and circuses where they are often kept in inadequate or too-small shelters and improperly fed. Headed by Tania “Nena” Baltazar and a team of permanent volunteers from Bolivia, all work at the refuge is done by temporary volunteers from all over the world. Details on Volunteering at Inti Wara Yassi Anyone can volunteer at Inti Wara Yassi's wildlife refuge. Certainly veterinarians and other professionals are especially welcome, but no experience is required. Spanish speaking is not required either, though it is useful. Even children are welcome, if they are responsible enough to handle the full workload and schedule - which makes volunteering at Parque Machia a great volunteer vacation plan for families. And, you do not have to book ahead. Just show up and start working! Volunteer work with the animals can be demanding, but is equally rewarding. The day starts at 7:30 am and finishes at 6:00 pm. Volunteers will feed and care for the animals, clean, build and repair cages, work on the property, and speak to tourists about the program. You will get dirty, wet, and muddy; bring old clothes to wear. The minimum commitment is fourteen days, but volunteers are encouraged to stay as long as they wish. In fact, longer-term volunteers are integral to the smooth running of the park and are given increased responsibility . Those able to commit to a stay of at least one month will be able to take charge of one particular animal, which offers incredible reward as you observe the animal improving and, if you’re lucky, returning to a life of freedom. Brave volunteers who can commit to a longer time period may sign up to spend their days walking wild cats through jungle paths. Low Volunteering Fees The cost of volunteering at Parque Machia is $120 US for the first fourteen days, and $4 per day afterward. This fee pays for the care of the animals, and entitles the volunteer to a bed in a shared room, hot showers, and use of the kitchen and common areas. It does not include meals, which may be prepared in the kitchen or purchased at nearby restaurants for under $5 US. How to Get to Villa Tunari and Inti Wara Yassi Villa Tunari is located in the center of Bolivia, on the road between Cochabamba (5 - 6 hours away) and Santa Cruz (12 hours away). Busses and minivans take this route several times daily. Be sure to have a large supply of cash, as Villa Tunari has no banks, ATMs, or facilities to change travelers’ checks. Parque Machia is also open to visitors daily, $2 US per person (extra fees for cameras) and better than any zoo. Learn more about spending your volunteer vacation at the wildlife refuges at Parque Machia or Parque Ambue Ari at Inti Wara Yassi's website or visit https://goo.gl/fKdxoP

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Samaipata Bolivia Paradise in South America Five reasons to visit this small town in the Santa Cruz Department Samaipata, nestled in the lower altitudes of the Andes, called "el codo de los Andes" is home to native townspeople, many weekend Bolivians and even expatriate Europeans. You can get to Samaipata from Santa Cruz by bus or taxi at very inexpensive prices. Once there, here are the five top attractions. 1. El Pueblito Resort is probably one of the most enchanting locations you’ll find on any continent. Set on one of the highest peaks around town, El Pueblito offers quaint boutique style lodgings, a multitude of local animals, and a charming plaza. The owners, Sandra and Giovanni, welcome each guest with hospitality that is unmatched anywhere. Each room or “cabaña” is decorated in a different theme according to its place in the “village”. El Pueblito also boasts a full-service restaurant and gift shop, complete with items that are hand painted on the premises. With spectacular views of the surrounding area, hospitality, and charm, your visit to Samaipata begins at El Pueblito. 2. The town of Samaipata itself, about five minutes from El Pueblito by car, is a charming South American small town – with its own pharmacies, shops, general stores, cafes, and bars. Once you’ve settled in at El Pueblito, be sure to go directly to town and take a walk through the plaza – it’s a small town version of some of the large plazas you find in big South American cities. Around the plaza you’ll find the shops and cafés, where you can sit outside and watch the world go by over a beer. 3. Your trip will not be complete without a look around at the surrounding countryside and weekend homes, so why not check it all out from the back of a horse? La Vispera, one of the other resorts above the town of Samaipata, offers horseback riding, where you can ride very calm horses on well-known trails. Your guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful if you're a first-time rider. At no more than a quick canter, you can check out more of the scenery and take in the pure mountain air. 4. A visit to Samaipata also includes an impressive historical site, called El Fuerte. This site is an entire pre-Incan and Incan city that was populated until after the Spanish conquest of South America. The Amboró Tourist Service offers impressive tours of the site with knowledgeable guides. While there, you’ll see ornate carvings in the rocks and what was presumed to be a stadium, as well as prayer niches for the various classes of inhabitants at El Fuerte. You’ll tour the remains of citizens' houses, take a walk through the plaza, and see what was believed to be a large central public building. All around, you’ll find that new excavations are taking place. El Fuerte is definitely a site to see. 5. The Amboró National Park, which is the area surrounding Samaipata, is the convergence of three separate areas of Bolivia: the “chaco” or arid plains, the Andes Mountains, and the Amazon basin, which creates separate microclimates. Inside these areas, you’ll find wet and dry forests, hiking trails, and some of the oldest ferns in the world, some estimated at more than a thousand years. For a fantastic hike as well as a trip in an open-air truck, check out The Roadrunners Tourist Service, located on Calle Bolivar in Samaipata. Your knowledgeable and experienced guides can create a hike to your liking – and you can learn about the flora and fauna of the area in Spanish, English, Dutch, or German. Samaipata is an undiscovered paradise within Bolivia – it can be part of an overall tour of the country or it can be a vacation destination in itself. For more information, check out https://goo.gl/8k4guu – and have a great trip.

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National Parks in Botswana The Department of Wildlife in Botswana manages conservation areas very efficiently and rules of entry are strictly enforced. Unless you want to go to a Botswana prison, don't even try to bush camp in Botswana's National Parks. Chobe National Park This park lies to the north of Botswana and the Chobe River and forms a border with Zambia. Large areas of the park are covered with Mopane trees and mixed woodland. The area is the domain of huge herds of elephants, buffalo and antelope species such as waterbuck, reedbuck, impala, wildebeest etc. Over 400 species of birds can be spotted in this area and predators are also well represented. Moremi Wildlife Reserve Moremi is situated in the eastern section of the Okavango Delta and was set aside as a sanctuary by the local Tawan tribes. The areas is marked by waterways between reed beds and islands of mixed woodland. There are many private tour operators and the three government run camps at South gate, North gate and Third bridge are now privatised. Nxai Pan National Park This park, in the north of Botswana, consists of open savannah, acacia thickets and Mopane woodlands. Giraffe, red hartebeest, blue wildebeest, eland, springbok and zebra are commonly sighted during the summer months. Small numbers of elephant migrate from the north after the first rains have fallen. Makgadikgadi Pans Game Reserve Once an inland lake, the Makgadikgadi Pans are now huge salt pans that turn into glue like mud during the rainy season (November to April). Game populations migrate through this area but their movements are unpredictable as they depend on water and food that comes from seasonal rains. At the onset of the rains, game disperse to the east and north, to Nxai Pan and beyond. Lion, cheetah, hyhena and other predators are well represented here, and smaller mammals such as jackals and bat-eared foxes are common. The salt pans are the size of Portugal and its wide emptiness and unusual moon-like landscape are well worth viewing. Central Kalahari Game Reserve This area spans over 51 000 square kilometres and is one of Africa's largest conservation areas. It is also one of the last true wilderness areas in Southern Africa. The terrain is flat and sandy and predators are attracted to the large amount of oryx gazelle, eland, springbok and wildebeest which manage to live in this harsh environment. Visitors must travel in convoy and bring all water, fuel, food and camping gear with them. Khutse Game Reserve This reserve falls within the Central Kalahari Reserve, in the southern part and can be accessed from Gaberone. Features of the area include numerous small, open pans, low shrubs and grassland. Kalaghadi Transfrontier Park This park lies south west in Botswana. The terrain is made up of red sand dunes, scrub and grassland. This desert area is too dry for elephants, hippos and elephants, but many antelope species have adapted to this environment. Predators are abundant, such as lion, cheetah, leopard, hyhena and jackal. Visitors must travel in a 2 vehicle convoy (at least) and carry all supplies with.

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National Parks in Botswana The Department of Wildlife in Botswana manages conservation areas very efficiently and rules of entry are strictly enforced. Unless you want to go to a Botswana prison, don't even try to bush camp in Botswana's National Parks. Chobe National Park This park lies to the north of Botswana and the Chobe River and forms a border with Zambia. Large areas of the park are covered with Mopane trees and mixed woodland. The area is the domain of huge herds of elephants, buffalo and antelope species such as waterbuck, reedbuck, impala, wildebeest etc. Over 400 species of birds can be spotted in this area and predators are also well represented. Moremi Wildlife Reserve Moremi is situated in the eastern section of the Okavango Delta and was set aside as a sanctuary by the local Tawan tribes. The areas is marked by waterways between reed beds and islands of mixed woodland. There are many private tour operators and the three government run camps at South gate, North gate and Third bridge are now privatised. Nxai Pan National Park This park, in the north of Botswana, consists of open savannah, acacia thickets and Mopane woodlands. Giraffe, red hartebeest, blue wildebeest, eland, springbok and zebra are commonly sighted during the summer months. Small numbers of elephant migrate from the north after the first rains have fallen. Makgadikgadi Pans Game Reserve Once an inland lake, the Makgadikgadi Pans are now huge salt pans that turn into glue like mud during the rainy season (November to April). Game populations migrate through this area but their movements are unpredictable as they depend on water and food that comes from seasonal rains. At the onset of the rains, game disperse to the east and north, to Nxai Pan and beyond. Lion, cheetah, hyhena and other predators are well represented here, and smaller mammals such as jackals and bat-eared foxes are common. The salt pans are the size of Portugal and its wide emptiness and unusual moon-like landscape are well worth viewing. Central Kalahari Game Reserve This area spans over 51 000 square kilometres and is one of Africa's largest conservation areas. It is also one of the last true wilderness areas in Southern Africa. The terrain is flat and sandy and predators are attracted to the large amount of oryx gazelle, eland, springbok and wildebeest which manage to live in this harsh environment. Visitors must travel in convoy and bring all water, fuel, food and camping gear with them. Khutse Game Reserve This reserve falls within the Central Kalahari Reserve, in the southern part and can be accessed from Gaberone. Features of the area include numerous small, open pans, low shrubs and grassland. Kalaghadi Transfrontier Park This park lies south west in Botswana. The terrain is made up of red sand dunes, scrub and grassland. This desert area is too dry for elephants, hippos and elephants, but many antelope species have adapted to this environment. Predators are abundant, such as lion, cheetah, leopard, hyhena and jackal. Visitors must travel in a 2 vehicle convoy (at least) and carry all supplies with.