Earning Free Air Travel with Credit Cards

As we all know, air travel can be expensive. There are ways to earn free air travel, and one of those ways is to use a card for your day to day purchases which earns free tickets or frequent flyer miles on many of the major airlines.

There are two basic types of credit cards that do this. The first is known as an airline mile card. The miles earned can be used for free tickets on over 250 major airlines. Many of these types of cards also allow the credit card holder to cash in their points for other travel rewards such as rental cars and hotel stays.

The second is known as a frequent flyer card. It allows the credit card holder to earn frequent flyer miles on a specific airline and its partners.

For people who are responsible with card debt, getting a card to earn free travel can be a smart idea. For those who are able to pay off most or all of their credit card bill at the end of the month, charging day to day purchases such as groceries, clothing, and gas makes sense.

So the question is, which card is better? An airline mile credit card or a frequent flyer credit card? The answer lies in the needs of the traveler.

If you need flexibility, an airline mile credit card may be the best choice. Since these cards earn points instead of frequent flyer miles, the rewards are not subject to the same restrictions as frequent flyer miles. Also, since the points can be used on a variety of airlines, you aren't boxed in by the schedule and availability of just one airline.

Some of the airline mile credit cards also allow the credit card holder to convert their points into frequent flyer miles on specific airlines. They can then be added to frequent flyer miles that the credit card holder has accumulated from actual flights and other sources, allowing the traveler to earn free flights more quickly.

The down side of airline mile credit cards is that the rewards may not add up as quickly frequent flyer mile credit cards. Many of them work on a $1 dollar spent = one point system. Since it averages about 24,000 points to earn one free ticket, it may take some credit card users a few years to rack up enough points for a free flight.

If you are a frequent traveler on one specific airline, then a frequent flyer card may be your best choice. Often these cards offer bonus miles just for opening up the credit card account once you've made your first purchase. It's not unusual for the bonus to be 15,000 miles or more which can be added to miles earned from actual flights.

Most frequent flyer cards offer one mile for each dollar spent, but some offer double miles for purchases at specific places. Again, these miles earned can be added to miles earned from flights.

The downside to a frequent flyer card is the limited choices you will have when booking travel. There are often black out dates associated with frequent flyer miles and a limited number of seats available on flights for those redeeming miles.

Whether you choose an airline mile credit card or frequent flyer credit card, it's a good idea to research all of the terms and conditions including all reward conditions, credit card fees, interest rates and late fees associated with the card before you make your choice.

The Worldwide Taxi

*London, U.K.
The drivers of London’s black cabs learn their trade the hard way. In order to get their famous green badge, the drivers have to complete “The Knowledge”. Getting this qualification involves getting on a moped and memorizing every street within six miles of Charing Cross. Taxi drivers are regulated by the Metropolitan Police, and discipline is very important. Exams are conducted with military formality and “cabbies” are often extremely nervous beforehand. Nevertheless, it’s worth it. Although the minimum fare is only £1.50, the driver’s weekly wage can be up to £800, making London’s cabbies possibly the best paid in the world.

*Mexico City, Mexico
In Mexico, the quality of your taxi depends on financial status. If you’ve got plenty of money, you can ride in a big air-conditioned saloon. If not, you have to take the cheaper option- a Mexican-made Volkswagen Beetle. Beetle cabs are not necessarily cheerful, despite their bright yellow paint (all other Beetles there are dirty brown). The fares are cheap, starting at sixty pence, but the drivers regard cheating customers as quite normal so you may end up paying quite a bit. Because prices in Mexico go up so quickly, the cab’s meter is worthless as soon as it is installed, so cabbies do their own mental calculations to work out the “correct” price. On average they earn about £70 a week.

*Mahajanga, Madagascar
In towns, the most popular taxi is “pousse-pousse”, a kind of rickshaw pulled by teenaged boys. Madagascans speak French, but why call a rickshaw a “push-push”? Well, when these boys are climbing up a hill they shout out to passers-by to get behind the cart and pousse, pousse! You only pay a minimum fare of five pence and since the drivers only make £3.50 a week, you can understand why they ask for the help.

*Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s rickshaw “boys” - who are usually around the age of 60 - are a dying breed. This is because the city has decided to stop using rickshaws. The last licence was issued in 1975. Nowadays, £4 is the minimum fare for a rickshaw ride. In 1950 there were 8,000 rickshaw boys, but now there’re only 20, so it is not surprising that they consider themselves an endangered species. They pay no attention to traffic laws, red lights are always ignored, they often go to wrong way down one-way streets and even pull their embarrassed passengers down pedestrian subways – all this for £280 per week! These days rickshaws are used chiefly by tourists.

*Fez, Morocco
Most of Morocco’s “grand taxis” are Mercedes limousines, which cater for long journeys between cities. For shorter trips most rely on “tetits taxis”, which are mainly small European cars and are far cheaper, with a minimum fare of £1.50. Drivers make about £45 per week. Typical cars are the Fiat 124 and late-sixties Simca 1000 (which has an engine in the back rather than the front). These cars are confined to the city limits. To stop them straying, the cars are color-coded: red with a black roof signifies the city of Fez.

*Surakarta, Indonesia
Indonesian bicycle rickshaws - called becaks- are unique in that the passengers sit at the front. This can be terrifying because the passengers take the impact of any head- on collisions Of course with a minimum fare of only twenty pence, it can be said that you get what you pay for. The drivers, who earn about £5 per week, are reckless. Perhaps that’s why the use of becaks is now forbidden in the capital, tourist- conscious Jakarta.

*Venice, Italy

Gondolas have been a feature of Venetian life since the 16th century and working as a gondolier used to be a profession that you couldn’t get into unless you knew somebody who was already a gondolier - a relative, for example. Two years ago everything changed and now it’s much more democratic. Training is difficult, since gondoliers are tested not only on skill but also on their knowledge of Venetian history, geography and culture. Of course with a weekly wage about £450, it’s worth studying a bit. A journey in gondola will cost you at least £28, so be prepared to pay.

Tips for International Travel

Always bring your ATM card with you. You will be charged a transaction fee by your bank each time you withdraw cash from an ATM machine, but this is your best bet. Just remember to withdraw a few larger amounts as opposed to daily, smaller amounts to avoid numerous bank charges. Most banks charge $1.50 - $5.00 per transaction. Also, depending on the kind of ATM card you have, you may be able to use it in restaurants/stores if the place of business accepts Visa or Mastercard.

When used as a credit card, it will automatically come out of your checking account. In this case, you won't be charged the bank's normal transaction fee. You must remember that many small villages do not have ATM machines, so plan accordingly. Never go to the exchange store fronts on the street or you will be charged a hefty fee. Also, you should bring the name and phone number (the direct line) of your banker just in case you need funds made available while abroad.

Credit cards are another good option since you will get that current day's exchange rate when you receive your bill upon your return home. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants and shops. It is a good idea to bring two different types (Visa or MasterCard and American Express) in case one is not accepted. Keep in mind that most credit card companies charge an additional fee for using credit cards internationally which is usually between 2-3% so check with your credit card company prior to your departure.

Bring more film than you think you will need since film is usually more expensive overseas. Always check the expiration of any film bought overseas.

Bring your passport and make sure it hasn't expired. Before departure, make a copy of your passport and airline tickets and keep in a separate place.

In Italy, you can also change money in the Italian Post Office. They often have better exchange rates and are open Saturday mornings.

I do not advise bringing traveler's checks. I have found that manyrestaurants and stores do not accept them because of currency fluctuation but you can exchange them at hotel front desks and banks.

Always bring comfortable, "already-broken in" footwear. Don't make themistake of bringing brand new shoes! Never bring high heels - they will certainly get stuck in the cobblestones in the small villages. Remember, many of these European villages are very hilly with rocky textures.

Before I pack, I make a habit of checking the weather forecast of the country to which I will be traveling. Also, I bring a light jacket and a small umbrella.

For those die hard shoppers, always bring an extra, collapsible suitcase for those precious purchases. You don’t want to break your new possessions by placing smashing them into your packed suitcase.

Expanding on the previous note, if you wish to purchase art/home decor while away, always bring the measurements of that area of your home (i.e. table measurements for tablecloths, bed measurements for linens, etc.)

Don't forget your laptop hardware, chargers (for cell phone, digital camera, etc.) and converters (hairdryer, electric shaver, etc.).

If you don't have a cell phone, remember to bring your home telephone company's Access Codes to be sure you get the best rate in calling home. (Each country has a different access code so call your phone company).

If you want to check your email while away and don't have a laptop, remember to bring your email access website information (i.e. www.mail2web.com - you will need your username and password). I always bring my Blackberry to Europe since the service provider has international access. Also, bring your address book - you may want to send postcards!

Laundry services are very expensive overseas so if you want to pack lightly, bring some Woolite to rinse out clothes in the sink. Also, make sure you bring an extra pair of sunglasses.

To avoid over packing, check with your hotel to see if they have a hairdryer and an iron/ironing board.

Always pack a swimsuit - even if it's winter, you'll never know if there might be a heated pool or Jacuzzi!

Use village names as landmarks as opposed to route numbers. By taking these precautions and preparations, you can spend your international vacation enjoying yourself and the surroundings without worrying about the little things.

Greece Hotels – Select your Hotel wisely

Greece is one of the most Popular Tourist destinations in Europe, and attracts a wide range of Tourists from all over the World. Greece Hotels are very pleasant to stay, offering the Olden Hospitality combined with the modern comfort. Greece Hotels offer a wide variety of accommodations for all ranges of the Tourists.

Athens is the most attractive place on the Central Greece and has the best Hotel accommodation for the Tourist. It is always better to stay around Plaka and it is a centrally located Area nearer to the Acropolis.

Hotels in Athens come in several Categories ranging from the 5 Star hotels to other Categories from A to C depending upon various factors with respect to each Hotel. Hotels are classified as per the facilities they have and the 5 Star happens to be the most luxurious. Next category is the A Category Hotels that come under the 4 Star Category and the B Group Hotels that come under 3 Star Hotels. The category of the Hotels in Greece is classified based on various factors like size of the Lobby, breakfast Room, Room size etc.

The pricing for the Hotels depend on the Category of the Hotel and you can find that the Hotels that come under the Class B offers more comfort at lower Prices. One peculiar thing among the categories in Hotels in the Greek Islands are that sometimes we can find a C category Hotel better than Hotels that are classified as Hotels in Category A. So beware of the Categories of the Hotels and don’t let yourself get carried over by them.

Always try to see the quality of the Hotel if you personally go to book the Hotel, and immaterial of the Category and classification of the Hotels what you want is a Hotel environment that is clean, friendly and located in a good locality with more facilities at reasonable Prices.

While booking the Hotels you can either do it directly or through the Travel Agents. But you can prefer your Travel Agent as there is no benefit for your direct booking in Greece Hotel Industry. The advantages being that the entire process of booking confirming etc will be taken care of by the Agent and you will be free from speaking with a Greek speaking Hotel Staff and other connected concerns and you can save a lot on International Long distance phone charges also.

It is always better to book in advance otherwise you may have to depend on the Taxi Driver from the Airport who will take you to some unknown dump for the sake of his commission.

Good Things to Know About Singapore

Singapore is the perfect destination for tourists in search of relaxation, peace and quiet. The diamond-shaped island of Singapore is a magnificent oasis of exotic vegetation, consisting of various magnificent species of plants. The beauty of the botanical gardens and parks found in Singapore is renown all over the world. One of the most treasured Singapore places of interest is the National Orchid Garden, which contains an impressive collection of more than 3000 species of orchids, some of them growing only on this particular island.

Situated in the South-eastern region of the Asian continent, Singapore is a very important center for trade and tourism. Singapore communicates with Malaysia through a set of bridges, while the access to the neighboring islands of the Indonesian archipelago is facilitated by the presence of many ferry ports along the coastal regions, ferry boats providing a quick means of transportation by sea. A major center for tourism, Singapore also has an extended and modern network of airlines, facilitating the tourists’ access on the island by air.

The vast, beautiful beaches found on the island are a major Singapore attraction. The tropical climate of Singapore renders the island the best destination for people in search for a memorable vacation by the beach. The beaches of Singapore are packed with tourists over the entire duration of the year, as the island preserves its warm climate regardless of season. The only impediment for tourists who enjoy sunbathing and swimming is tropical rain, which wets the surface of the island in brief, sporadic showers. However, the good news is that rain predominantly falls in autumn and winter, more rarely showering the island of Singapore during spring and summer.

A very famous Singapore place of interest is the world’s first open zoo, which shelters a wide range of species characteristic to various geographical regions. The zoological garden found in Singapore is a major attraction for tourists, allowing visitors to closely observe the various animal species sheltered by the island. Unlike conventional zoos, the zoological garden in Singapore doesn’t confine animals inside cages. The simulated environments and landscapes themselves separate the species that grow here, while additional man-made barriers prevent visitors from getting too near from the animals.

Apart from these common attractions, the ancient cultural and religious monuments found on the island are also major reasons for you to visit Singapore. Additional Singapore places of interest such as Thian Hock Keng temple, the shrines built in honour of Ma Po Cho - the Mother of the Heavenly Sages and the abundance of other religious monuments and statues render the island of Singapore an appropriate destination for tourists in search for mystical places. Whether you decide to visit Singapore for its sunny beaches, the splendour of its gardens or the intriguing ancient Oriental worship sites found on the island, a vacation in this region of the world is definitely a unique and unforgettable experience!

African Safari Trips – A taste of wild and romantic African adventure.

Safari is an East African tradition and means to travel or journey. An African safari is a popular trip that has been undertaken for centuries by both Africans and other nations visiting Africa. The most enduring image of safari is the British explorer in his white hat and shorts, hunting for big game in the wilds of Africa. Africa is a very popular destination due to beautiful terrain and varied wildlife.

African safari began centuries ago with Arabs and Swahilis making long voyages into mainland Africa to do trade with other markets. The word became synonymous with the caravans, hunting, and the sense of adventure. The traders brought ivory, supplies and slaves. Thankfully British control put an end to the slavery.

The British soon brought people from all over the world looking for Safari adventure. What really attracted them was Africa’s wildlife, which still does today. Some people wanted to observe and study the amazing African animals, while others wanted to hunt them. Needless to say, soon it became necessary to establish an ethical and legal code protecting the animal population from over hunting. Today hunting is very strictly regulated to protect the animals.

Many western explorers gained massive fame and their tales of Africa started the trend that still goes on today. They told romantic stories of the freedom and beauty of Africa, as well as serious tales of the dangers that face explorers. Drought, wild animals, disease and hostile tribes are dangers that still exist today and so the modern safari will be equipped very well and with caution. A safari trip that is unprepared for disaster could run into very serious, possibly fatal, trouble.

Safari trips to Africa are easy to find and book. They usually start by taking you to a lodge where there are observation decks, entertainment, bars and beds. These lodges act as a starting point for the convoys of vehicles that will take you across the land and into game territory. Just like in the past, many safaris have a native African guide who adds his knowledge of the terrain and survival skills.

Shopping in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Shopping in Las Palmas is, nowadays, an activity that attracts locals as well as tourists. Las Palmas is the capital of the eastern Canary Islands, with about 400.000 inhabitants. This gives you enormous shopping possibilities. To tackle all the great shopping areas in Las Palmas, you will definitely need a good pair of walking shoes!

First we take a little look at some locally produced goods worth shopping. Second, we list the mayor comercial areas of the Las Palmas area.

Local products

Rum: The Canary Islands produce a huge quantity of rum each year, and they are very proud of their product. This is what they drink at local fiestas, without a doubt. Brands like Ron Arehucas, Artemi and Cocal fill up the liquor shelves in each and every store. There is also a sweet honey rum, Ron Miel. All of this you can buy at a very low price.

Electronics: The Canary Islands have a lower VAT than on the spanish mainland. This means that certain products are cheaper. In Las Palmas you´ll find a lot of Bazaars selling electronics, and you should always compare their prices with the ones of the larger chains like Mediamarkt and Corte Inglés.

Cigars: The Canary Islands have always been known for its tobacco production and you´ll find a huge offer of cigars and cigarettes. And these products are indeed very cheap, definitely among the lowest prices in Europe.

Wine: Even though the Canary Islands are not internationally known for its wine production, local wine is produced in all islands. Look for Viña Frontera (El Hierro), Malvasia (Lanzarote) and El Monte (Gran Canaria).

Food: Well, the list of food worth buying is abundant. The Canary Islands have always had better meat than their fellow spaniards, since the port of Las Palmas received the south american cargo boats shipping the meat straight from Argentina and Uruguay. The canary island banana, or ”plátano” as it´s called, is much sweeter and tasty than its central american counterparts.

Clothing: Spain has always been keen on fashion, and surely you´ll find the clothing you´re after. Spanish chains like Massimo Dutti, Zara, Cortefiel, Mango, Springfield offer an incredible amount of good shopping. Not to mention the shoes. Even though chinese shoe production is gaining market shares, the spanish shoe production is still significant.

Mayor shopping areas of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Almost all of the shopping centers below are easily accessed by car or by bus. Every mall but Mesa y López offers abundant free parking as well. The places described below are not in tourist areas, thereby granting you the same excellent shopping possibilities as natives.

Mesa y López: This is a huge shopping street in Las Palmas where you find stores like El Corte Inglés, Zara, Cortefiel, Zapatos Navarro, Quesada… I can recommend La Oca, a fantastic store for home decoration.

Corte Inglés: They have two high street stores in Las Palmas, one in Mesa y López, and one in 7 Palmas. They have about everything you need, as well as a lot of staff that help you find what you need.

7 Palmas: This is a fairly new area of Las Palmas, integrating residential areas and great shopping. Here you find Media Markt, which is the largest electronics mega store in the islands. You also find Zara, Cortefiel, hair dressers and a nice café at the bottom floor. Tip: In the garage you can have your car washed and pressed while you go shopping. And its very cheap too!

La Ballena: This was the first mall of Las Palmas, constructed in the late 80´s. They have all the shops that you need, as well as a cinema complex.

Las Arenas: Inaugurated around 5 years ago, this is a really nice shopping area, located not more than 100 meters from the world famous Las Canteras Beach of Las Palmas. Here you´ll also find Carrefour, definitely one of the bigger supermarkets on the island. Don´t forget to stroll down the beach afterwards!

El Muelle: This is the newest one of them all, situated in the Port area of Las Palmas, not far from the famous Santa Catalina Park. The place is huge and offers everything. Tip: After some frenetic shopping, sit down outside by the wodden deck to have a cold ”cañita”, a small beer.

La Estrella: This one is situated next to the highway south of Las Palmas. They offer an enormous supermarket, Alcampo, as well as Leroy Merlin, an outlet for home decoration and construction. On the other side of the road is Decathlon, a giant sports outlet.

Atlántico: Further down south along the highway, in Vecindario, you´ll find this gigantic mall, offering all the known shops and a huge Carrefour Supermarket. There is also a McDonalds situated just outside the mall, one of not too many hamburger restaurants in the island.

As you can see, Las Palmas is a shopper´s paradise, with enough shopping to satisfy any interest. Don´t forget the walking shoes though!

What To Expect In Amsterdam Hotels

If this is your first trip to Amsterdam, there are going to be many hotel choices for you to consider. You may not know what to expect and that can be a big problem. First off, one of the nice things is that most hotel concierge will speak some English, if that is your native tongue. That gives you one main advantage. You can ask questions before you leave to learn what actually can be offered and how to get it. With an Amsterdam hotel world full of possibilities, there are plenty of choices for you to make.

As for what to expect, one thing is for sure. There are plenty of differences. Each hotel has its own feel to it. If you are looking for a familiar style, something more home like, then you will want to consider the big name hotels, the ones that are spread across the globe that we all know. But, if you are looking for more of a traditional Amsterdam feel to it, select a more localized hotel. It is even understandable to want to stay at a local hotel so that you can really experience what Amsterdam is actually about, rather than staying in a hotel that is about the same as any other.

When it comes to amenities, you can expect to find more choices than in other locations. In some of the better hotels in Amsterdam, you will find more recreational things to do including bowling, tennis courts and swimming. But, don’t think that these hotels are not up to date with the latest features. They regularly feature WiFi and laptop connections. Still, one thing to take notice of when booking your hotel in Amsterdam is their beauty. The city is well known as being one of the most beautiful in the world and the hotels can add to that as well.

Ten Fun Things To Do In Los Angeles

We’ve created a list of our ‘top 10 fun things to do in Los Angeles’ to help you decide what to do while you’re there.

Los Angeles Stars Homes – Travel around Los Angeles visiting the homes of great movie and pop stars such as Nicholas Cage and Britney Spears. You will see some of the finest houses in Beverley Hills and Holmby Hills that belong to all your favourite celebrities. You may even catch a glimpse of one of the A-list stars.

Hollywood Walk of Fame – Take a trip down the Hollywood Walk of Fame to find the stars of all your favourite celebrities, old and new.

Universal Studios – Visit Universal Studios and experience some of the scariest and fun rides in Los Angeles, all of which are based on your favourite movies and television shows. Ride through Jurassic Park and get attacked by a T-Rex, travel back in time in the DeLorean from Back to the Future and then go forward to The Terminators timeline and battle armies of robots.

Helicopter Tour – Take to the skies of Los Angeles in a helicopter tour which will show you the city from a whole new perspective. See all the attractions including downtown LA, the Hollywood sign and the Sunset Strip, soaking up the breathtaking views from the sky.

Venice Beach – Take a stroll down Venice Beach Boardwalk, a 3 mile stretch of beach full of shops, street entertainers and tourists alike.

Shopping – Los Angeles provides some of the best shopping in all of America and while you’re there you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to shop in stores like Gucci and Tommy Hilfiger. Go spending on Rodeo Drive where all your favourite celebrities’ shop, head to Muscle Beach and Marina del Rey and you are guaranteed to be satisfied with your purchases.

Getty Center – See some of the finest art known to human kind in the Getty Center, a complex which was built purely to house J. Paul Getty Trust’s collection of European art. Even if you are not interested in the art, the Getty Center is worth a visit simply for the beautiful gardens and scenery, though the quality of the art will no doubt touch you in some way.

Warner Bros. studio tour – A tour around Warner Brothers Studio is a tour through some of your favourite shows. Visit the sets of shows like ER and Lois & Clark and see costumes and even scripts from the shows on your tour.

La Brea Tar Pits – A trip to Hancock Park will steer you to the La Brea Tar Pits, which boasts the greatest number of prehistoric fossils excavated in the world. A great collection of these fossils can be found in the Page Museum located at the tar pits. If you are lucky, when you visit you may be able to see actual excavations being carried out, though this is only normally during the summer months.

Los Angeles Zoo – Visit Los Angeles Zoo all year round and see over 1200 animals from around the world. Open for over 40 years and boasting 1.4 million visitors a year, Los Angeles Zoo is a must visit as a fun thing to do while in LA.

Santa Cruz HotelsSanta Cruz Hotels

Santa Cruz, California is a sleepy beach town surrounded by beautiful mountains and equally gorgeous coastline. Boasting a quaint downtown area and popular boardwalk with rides and games, Santa Cruz has been a favorite vacation spot for many seeking a beach vacation without the hustle and bustle of an over-crowded tourist locale.

When shopping for a hotel to spend your stay, many factors come into question, the three most important being: location, price, and quality. Santa Cruz offers many hotels in any and all of these categories. For some, a mountain getaway only a few minutes drive from both the beach and downtown is the preference. The Hilton in Scotts Valley (Santa Cruz’s neighboring town) offers classic Hilton elegance with price. This hotel is a ten minute drive from both the Boardwalk and downtown Pacific Avenue. On the other side of Santa Cruz is Chaminade, a luxurious resort with sweeping mountain views set fifteen minutes from downtown and the beach. For those shopping fiends, many hotels and inns are available in the heart of downtown Santa Cruz. The Comfort Inn and University Inn and Conference Center are both very affordable and located blocks from downtown and the beach. With these hotels, a car is unnecessary unless planning to go outside Santa Cruz city limits. If an ocean view with a budget is what you crave, then Best Inn and Suites on the Boardwalk and Best Value Inn-By-the-Beach are your best bets. Both located across the street from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and its beaches, they’re your perfect match for waking up to the smell of the ocean breeze.

If the tourist crowds of the Boardwalk do not suite your fancy, head over to the Coast Santa Cruz Hotel, located on the beach between the boardwalk and the coastline residences. From here, you can go one way towards downtown and the Boardwalk, you can step out onto the beach, or take a walk along West Cliff Drive to see the coastline, walk on the beach, and watch the surfers. This path is four miles of ocean, sand, cliffs, and panoramic views of the Monterey Bay.

These are not the only hotel options in Santa Cruz, there are also many motels, inns, hotels, and bed and breakfasts for you to stay. Any choice is a good choice because chances are you will not be spending very much time in your room. Santa Cruz, although small, offers so many things to do and see in an easy to navigate area. If downtown is not enough to wet your shopping appetite, ten minutes down highway 1 is the Capitola Mall. And just over highway 17 is Valley Fair, the largest mall you’ll encounter before you hit San Francisco.

All along the Monterey Bay are famous beach hot-spots such as Carmel and Monterey. The vibe of those towns is very different from that in Santa Cruz. Mainly, Santa Cruz is a hole-in-the-wall town with friendly residents and a relaxing atmosphere. Wherever you go, you will not be disappointed.

Visiting the Japanese Home

Well, before you do such you must first learn the etiquette in Japanese homes. The Japanese home culture revolves around three values: courtesy, cleanliness, and graciousness. Learning to apply these values whether in the Japanese context or not benefits you not only as you deal with the Japanese - it will allow you better dealings and communications with other people as well.

Courtesy. The first thing you have to do is greet the family. Bowing slightly as you greet them would be the best move, for shaking hands is still an awkward formality in Japan. The lower you bow the more respect you give.

If you could bring a small present, do so, especially a food souvenir called “omiyage” in Japan to delight your hosts and immediately create a warm atmosphere. It is preferable to bring local culinary specialties from your home town or country

During conversations, remember to be more subtle than usual with your thoughts and emotions. Compared to people in the Western culture, the Japanese are more reserved during talks. In Japanese discussions there is what they call the honne (real opinion) and the tatemae (public opinion). In most situations it is the tatemae that is expressed to not disturb group harmony or cause any offense. This is why the Japanese are considered bad at public debates. Do avoid interrupting people when they are speaking or are in the middle of thinking. The Japanese don’t mind short periods of silence during discussions.

Cleanliness. Leave your shoes outside the door, on the spot where others have left theirs. Wearing shoes inside a Japanese home is considered unclean. If you are not immediately provided slippers, you can wear your socks inside the house. So make sure you are wearing nice and socks without holes! If you are wearing slippers, remember to remove them as you enter a room with tatami mats on the floor, for slippers could damage these mats. There are special slippers especially designated for the toilet area, so remember to take off your slippers when entering such.

As in most Asian countries, it is rude to blow your nose in front of other people. It is especially rude to blow your nose in a handkerchief and then stuff the handkerchief in your pocket afterwards. The Japanese use paper tissue when doing such. Excuse yourself if you feel the urge to do this deed to avoid offending anyone.

Graciousness. During mealtimes, the Japanese will offer you to try everything served on the table. Make sure to amiably try even just a bite of each of the food. Place your chopsticks on a special holder and do not stick them up in your rice. As opposed to Western manners, Japanese slurp noodles. It is actually preferred that bowls or plates be brought up the mouth when slurping rather than bending your head towards it.

Of course the Japanese will know and understand that you are from another culture, but knowing their traditions before you set foot on their door helps your visit to go more smoothly. Most Japanese families that host visitors of other races are “spoilers”, meaning they want to give you everything you need in all efforts to please. Hence, always remember to be gracious and please them in return.

Tips When Traveling Abroad

Excited for that trip abroad? Before you dream about all the sights and sounds and the people and everything you’re going to experience, have a reality check first. How prepared are you really? It will benefit you much if you really fix all that needs to be fixed before jumping on that plane, so there’s no room left for stress and regret once you’ve stepped onto that foreign land. Here are some tips to make sure you have the vacation of your dreams.

Before the Travel

Research. Choose your destination well. Research on the specific location you plan to go to before you book anything. You never know if certain diseases are currently at large in the place. Remember that local conditions change quickly. Being aware of the health status of a place is especially important if you’re traveling with people more susceptible to catching diseases such as children, pregnant women, or those with weak immune systems. Don’t risk – a visit to the hospital is surely not included in your vacation plans.

Stock up on medicine. Pack lots of preventive medications and immunizations. A medical kit will also help you during emergencies.

Familiarize. Know the culture of the country you are visiting. Keeping in mind the laws of the country is especially important because one wrong move can land you in jail if you’re not careful. Learn basic language that you will need. Have a general idea of the people and their ways.

Leave contact details. Remember to give your family or friends a copy of your itinerary so if anything unfortunate happens, they have an idea where to find you. Leave contact numbers so they also know how to contact you in case of emergencies.

During the Travel

Keep luggage in sight. Never take your eyes or your grip off your luggage, especially in public areas.

Dress sensibly. Avoid wearing conspicuous clothes and expensive jewelry, unless you want to attract pickpockets. Furthermore, do not carry too much money or unnecessary credit cards.

Be hygienic. Wash your hands often with soap and warm water. After a day’s travel, make sure your clothes are washed well to remove all unwanted components you may have caught from the air.

Choose what you take in. As much as possible, avoid drinking tap water, whether in mixed drinks or in ice cubes. Better buy only branded mineral water or boiled beverages like coffee and tea. Avoid raw or uncooked food, as you never know how strongly your stomach may react. When consuming dairy products such as milk and cheese, make sure they are pasteurized. Don’t drink directly from bottles or cans to avoid contamination.

Know your embassy. Be aware of how to contact your embassy in the country so in case of problems, you can reach them.

After the Travel

Do a health check. Check if you have developed any unusual symptoms. Immediately see your doctor if you notice anything weird about your body. If some of your preventive medications need to be taken upon your return home, don’t forget to take them upon your return.

Birmingham attractions

I bet you think Birmingham is all dismal grey buildings and noisy roads. Well, Birmingham isn’t exactly packed with things to see and do… but there are some things that are well worth a visit.

To begin with, to get all those bad thoughts about Birmingham out of your head, go and take a look at the beautiful Birmingham Botanical Gardens. It’s very close to the centre, and it’s been there since 1832 – modern life really doesn’t intrude into these lovely gardens.

If you like chocolate, you’ll love Cadbury World. It’s situated where Cadbury’s chocolate started, in Bournville, and it’s a huge exhibition about the history of chocolate and the Cadbury company. You can walk around the factory, see the chocolate being made, and even taste some at the end. Sure, it’s advertising in a way, but kids absolutely love it.

Another great Birmingham attraction is the National Sea Life Centre. It is one of Britain’s largest aquariums, with a million-litre ‘sea tank’ where all sorts of sea animals can be seen, including turtles and sharks. A sure-fire family success.

If you’re looking for something a little more grown up, then there are a surprising number of art galleries in Birmingham. There’s the Ikon, a gallery for modern art, and the Birmingham Museum, which has a good selection of older pieces. Birmingham University has a very good art gallery, the Barber Institute of Fine Arts, which features many paintings by old masters like Monet and Picasso.

If you’re into trains, make sure to stop by the Birmingham Railway Museum – as Birmingham was one of the first places in the world to get railways, many particularly old and notable trains and other railway memorabilia are housed here.

Finally, even if you’ve been to Birmingham before, you might not have seen the Millennium Point complex, which only opened in 2002. It’s a leisure complex that includes Thinktank, an excellent science museum, an IMAX cinema and a shopping centre.

Visiting New York City 'The Big Apple

New York City is one of the most well-known cities in the world, and for good reason. Dubbed the "city that never sleeps," New York is the prime example of a global metropolitan city. Just about everything that's anything can be found here.

New York City, as most Americans know, is the largest city in the United States, with a population of 8.1 million people in just 321 square miles. Its larger metropolitan area sports a total population of a little under 19 million people. This fact makes New York City the most densely populated city in the entire North American continent. New York City is also a global center for finance, entertainment, fashion, and culture, with a wide selection of museums, galleries, and other artistic establishments. Among many other things, the headquarters of the United Nations can be found in New York.

Dubbed the "Big Apple", New York's ethnic diversity is reflected by it's population being made up of 33% foreign born people. Hip Hop enthusiasts may want to visit the Bronx, which is well known for it's roots. Several hip-hop artists grew up in the Bronx which is reflected in their music. If you want to experience firsthand what your favorite artist experienced you can always book a hotel in the Bronx.

Be sure to check out Broadway if you are into the performing arts. It's 39 theatres feature the brightest and best of the performing arts. Plays like "Cats" and "The Phantom of the Opera" are well known for their extremely long runs on Broadway. If you've never experienced a Broadway play, put this on your itinerary when you visit New York City. Other arts centers are made up of the New York Philharmonic, the New York City Opera, the New York City Ballet and the Metropolitan Opera. One of the world famouse performing venues is Carnegie Hall.

A visit to the Madison and Fifth Avenues is an absolute must ff you are an intrepid shopper. You'll find a large concentration of high end stores here ready to serve the financially "well off". For those who are looking for more reasonably priced good Herald Square would make a good choice. If you are a good lover make sure you pay a visit to Union Square. For Collectors, East Village would make a good choice, where rare items can be bought and/or traded. For convenience sake, you might want to consider finding a hotel near these attractions.

Whether the purpose of your trip to New York City is business or pleasure, it is important that you find the best accommodations that you can find. There are many New York hotels, and as in all cities there is great variation in terms of their prices and quality. No matter what your budget, however, you can probably find a New York hotel that you can afford, and if you search intelligently, you don't need to trade your comfort just for a few dollars of savings.

First Class Upgrade Secrets Tips and Strategies

Top 12 Ways to Upgrade to First Class on the Major AirlinesGetting Upgraded to First ClassThese days with little profit and extra overheard costs, a flyer with no past history on a given airline has little chance of upgrading to first class. But it can happen if you do your homework. Hence why you are here today.

Method #1: Asking the ticket counter agent nicely or perhaps offering him/her a bribe. Does this work?

In 99% of the time absolutely not. In most cases on most airlines, the ticket agent is not authorized to upgrade passengers unless you have frequent flyer status and even with frequent flyer status, you will most likely need to use miles to get your upgrade. Of course you have to hope they actually have first class seats available for upgrade.

With many frequent flyer programs, and with rules changing frequently due to airlines merging with other airlines, or the carrier simply revamping their frequent flyer program, many of the top tier frequent flyers get upgraded before they fly. Thus by the time you arrive at the airport, there is a good chance that the first class seats that have not been sold have been allocated to frequent flyers. Bribing a ticket agent can not only get the agent in hot water, but she will probably seat you at the back of the plane just for being stupid.

With some airlines, fellow flyers I have met have been clever enough to ask the ticket counter agent to kindly add a code to their ticket. Why? Because the code signifies to the gate agent that you as a passenger are potentially eligible for an upgrade. It works with the right airline and of course you will need to know which code to use as each airline uses different codes for different situations that are independent of other carriers.

Method #2 Dress smart and arrive as late as possible

There are plenty of flyers who believe in getting to the airport as early as possible in the hopes of either asking the counter agent for an upgrade or asking the gate agent for an upgrade. Believe me, I have tried thousands of charming ways to get upgraded and the employees are simply following the rules. Oh and they have heard every line in the book. So why would your line be any different?

Of course if you want to press your luck, you can arrive at the 11th hour and ask the gate agent for an upgrade, it will of course help to dress the part and of course hold some status even if its just a basic member in the airlines frequent flyer program. One method that has worked for me in the past is to tell them the reason you are late is because of a terrible experience you had with their competitor, sometimes if they think they have the potential to win the business of a frequent flyer from another carrier, they might put you in first class, space permitted since you are in an emotional state. It can work.

Method #3 Buying an Upgrade

Many domestic carriers in an attempt to earn more business will happily sell first class seat upgrades on a first come first serve basis. Obviously they want to earn as much money as possible and they will release first class seats typically only at the airport and only on the day of the departure. Instead of paying $1,200 for a first class flight coast to coast, you might end up paying 300 for the coach ticket and just 150 each way for the first class upgrade. Certainly better than begging for an upgrade and this is certainly better than using miles in many cases.

Of course this rate may not apply to you, on some airlines they only offer the upgrades to their frequent flyers first and only after they have exhausted all attempts at selling to their most loyal customers will they sell to you. Hint: Get a frequent flyer card as soon as possible. It’s free and will only help you upgrade and of course you start to earn miles with your first flight.If by chance you paid full fare for your coach ticket, there is still a chance of buying an upgrade, but like everything in this world, don’t expect much with a free or heavily discounted coach ticket.

Method #4: It’s not what you know but who you know

If you just so happen to be related to a family member or are friends with an airline employee, you certainly could ask for an upgrade, but keep in mind that airlines are in the business of making a profit, and if there are upgrades to sell, or loyal frequent flyers to keep happy, don’t expect to be first inline for an upgrade.

On a positive note, keep in mind that suppliers, contractors and airline partners have some pull to get upgraded. It’s not just family of the carrier’s employees.

Method #5: Show a travel agent ID

Again, if and only if seats are available will an airline offer a free upgrade and even though a travel agent might have some pull, you always have to assume that frequent flyer status will help more than just travel agent status. If you have both, you will only improve your chances of an upgrade. It certainly does not hurt to try. You can of course become a travel agent for as little as $50 without having to sell anything.

Method #6: Ask a flight attendant for an upgrade if you a seat available

Typically flight attendants never upgrade passengers and simply asking for an upgrade is not going to work. However, there are legitimate reasons why a flight attendant will upgrade you. Here are a few.

Driving in Germany

I will start off with some ‘common sense’ information like your drivers license. Of course if you are not a German citizen your drivers license probably does not authorize you to drive in Germany. You will need to contact your local license branch (BMV) and find out the steps you need to take to receive an international drivers license. I have not personally done this because I have a European military drivers license but from what I have heard it is not too hard to do or terribly costly.
Next of course is having a car to drive when you arrive in Germany. This is pretty obvious. Coordinate with any INTERNATIONAL car rental service and they can have a car ready and waiting for you at your arrival city. Another option is to rent the car in Germany, which is a pretty easy process as well. Most service representatives speak English and will be happy to help you out.

Now you will need to know the ‘meat and potatoes’ of driving in Germany, the traffic laws. If you are an American, or have driven in the U.S., you will find that driving in Germany is not much different. Without telling you every single travel law written in Germany, I will try to shed some light on some of the major differences:

Traffic lights: When pulling up to a traffic light you will notice that unlike the U.S. traffic lights which go from green to yellow to red and then directly back to green, German traffic lights will go from red to yellow and then green. This is nothing to worry about. I guess they just want to make sure you have it in gear and your ready to take off. The second thing, but extremely more important, is the ‘right on red’ rule we have in the U.S. This rule DOES NOT EXIST in Germany. If you try to make a right turn when the traffic light is red you may find yourself in a lot of pain and in a major lawsuit.

Autobahn: If you are thinking that the autobahn is the paradise for people with a lead foot you may end up with a speeding ticket. Although there are some stretches of the autobahn that have no speed limit there is a recommended speed limit of 120 kilometers per hour that you should obey. Granted, most do exceed this speed recommendation but now you know you CAN be ticketed.

Accidents: If you are the first on the seen of an accident in which someone has been injured you are required by law to provide assistance. Whether you simply stop and call an ambulance (112) not (911), or you provide medical aid, you must do something to help the casualty.

Where is Ausfhart Germany? No Ausfhart is not a city that seems to pop up everywhere you go. Ausfhart is the German word for exit.

A Quick Guide To London

London is one of the world’s most visited cities. With its combination of historic buildings, renowned museums and galleries and the best in dining, clubbing, entertainment and now a new range of boutique hotels, you won’t run out of things to do.

Where is it?

London is the capital of the UK, set on the river Thames. Served by several airports, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick and London Stanstead, and with direct train links to the continent via the Channel Tunnel, and to the rest of the UK via domestic operators, the city is easy to get to.

Where can I stay?

hotels of various sizes and standards. Famous and expensive hotels sit alongside smaller guesthouses, but it is the boutique hotel that’s currently proving a popular choice with visitors. Small and stylish, with impeccable service and a real atmosphere rather than one manufactured by the marketing department of a large hotel chain, staying in one of these hotels can only make your trip to London more enjoyable.

What can I see?

There’s so much going on in London that even the residents don’t see it all. Plan your stay so that you enjoy a little bit of history at the Tower of London or St. Paul’s Cathedral for example; some of the treasures and paintings in the museums and galleries; a show in the West End and some great drinking and dining. If you’re staying in a good hotel, you can rely on the concierge or reception staff to help you buy tickets or plan your itinerary. Don’t forget your camera, and make a long list of the things you want to do the next time you visit.

How do I get around?

Like all major cities, London has a modern public transport system. A comprehensive underground network takes you to all parts of the city, with prices working on a “zone” basis, which makes it easy to calculate which tickets to buy and how much they will cost. If you’re planning to use the underground a lot during your trip, ask for details of saver tickets. London’s famous red buses are easy to use and reasonably cheap at just £1 for central London journeys. Alternatively, you could take a traditional “black cab”. These hackney cabs can be hailed from anywhere and the drivers have to pass a stringent test so that they can take you anywhere you need to go. Adept at avoiding traffic jams, happy to hold a conversation and with honest fare meters, a journey with a hackney cab driver is a real London experience. You can hire a car, but if you’re staying within the city, it’s far easier to use public transport.

Tips To Spend Smarter This Travel Season

Travelers are likely to spend more this year than in years past. According to the latest research from the Travel Industry Association of America, total travel expenditure among U.S. residents increased by 5.3 percent in 2005. Whether planning a weekend escape or a tropical getaway, there are ways to hit the road without breaking the bank. Here are some tips that will help you stretch your resources so that you can get the most out of your trip:

Budget Before You Go. Determine in advance how much the entire trip-meals, transportation, travel accommodations, entertainment, shopping and miscellaneous expenses, such as admission to theme parks and museums-will cost. Online resources, such as www.practicalmoneyskills.com, provide budget calculators that help itemize vacation spending. If you know how much the total trip will cost, you can save toward your goal before you pack your bags.

Reap Your Rewards. It's time to cash in rewards points you've been earning all year on your credit or debit card. First, determine your eligibility. Do you have enough points to get to your destination? Are you traveling during dates when rewards points are accepted? Have any of your points expired since you last checked? Once you know your rewards status, determine how best to use them. If your initial travel dates and preferred destination don't work, consider being flexible with your plans to save on major expenses, such as airfare and hotel accommodations.

Do It Yourself. Tourist groups or high-priced guides can drain your budget quickly. Be your own guide by reading up online or at the library before you arrive. Use of these free resources can help you put together a personalized tour without spending big bucks. If you prefer guided tours, advance research allows you to invest in parts of the trip that matter most and self-guide through the rest of your vacation.

Pack Your Wallet Wisely. Today's travelers have more choice than ever when it comes to handling trip expenses. In addition to credit and debit cards, many travelers are using prepaid cards, which allow them to pay up front and then access the funds by using the card like a debit card. Protections make these cards more secure than carrying cash or traveler's checks with all the convenience of a debit card. Visa TravelMoney (www.visa.com/ustravelmoney) even provides lost luggage reimbursement without requiring purchase of travel with the card-those who carry an activated and eligible card are automatically covered. Packing your wallet with a range of payment options will allow you to take advantage of such benefits when you least expect them and need them most.

Treat Travel As An Investment. While heading out on a road trip or exploring Europe can feel like an escape from reality, your budget stays the same. If you have a special trip in mind, treat it as a long-term investment. Set aside funds monthly so that you can book the room with the ocean view or stay an extra day. Vacation requires time and money, but it is also an investment in you and your family's future with the potential for cultural enrichment, rest and relaxation.

Finally, wherever you travel this summer, don't let rising prices keep you from enjoying your dream vacation. With a little extra planning and some smart choices, you'll be packing your bags in no time.

Many travelers are using payment cards to cover travel expenses, which are safer than carrying cash and more conve-nient than traveler's checks.

Bon Voyage, Tips For Foreign Travel

Traveling to a new location, especially a new country can be a stimulating experience, especially for a first timer. But to be sure that it does not end up being a nightmare, one needs to plan well, and well in advance. “Prevention is better than cure” and nothing sums it up better. Here are some of the small things that will go a long way to ensure that you come back from your trip with a big smile.

Getting travel insurance from a reputed service provider is a must. Do ensure that you take a comprehensive plan that includes the medical insurance also. This will ensure that you are covered for exigencies like missing a flight connection or a flight cancellation. Since the medical costs in a foreign land may be exorbitant, ascertain that your medical policy is accepted by hospitals in that country and that the sum assured in the policy covers you adequately for all the medical conditions.

Thanks to the heightened security measures, especially at the airports, it is advisable to reach the airport ahead of the time. This will help you in case of any undue delays in the guise of security precautions. Keep your passport and boarding pass at a convenient place so as to save time. Finally if you find that you still have plenty of time, even after obtaining all the security clearances, you can explore the comfortable airport lounges and book stores. Be careful of your belongings at all times lest someone relieves you of your precious possessions. One simple rule that can be followed is to check in all your bulky baggage and keep only the essential things with you. And ensure that you have locked your hand baggage.

Another seemingly trivial act that can go a long way to protect your interests is to preserve a copy of all your key documents. Keep them in a different place than your original documents. In case you lose your passport, the copy of your passport will help you in filing a police complaint without having to lose your sleep over it. A copy of your credit card can help you reach the issuing bank with all the relevant details so that your card cannot be misused. The copy of your medical prescription and your medical insurance can even be life saving, literally.

Lastly, check for the financial details. Do you know the conversion rate of American dollars into the local currency? Where do you get your currency exchanged? Will your credit cards be accepted or should you take travelers check? Since these factors would change depending on the country you are visiting, it is wise to invest some time in finding these answers.

Traveling Through Europe

The summer of 2005, my friend and I decided to apply for a summer program as part of our graduate degree and travel from United States to Europe and specifically to Brugges in Belgium, so as to attend an intensive seminar at The College of Europe on Politics, Policies, Lobbying and the European Union. Although I have never visited Belgium before, I was really excited to discover, while browsing the internet, that I was about to visit one gorgeous and historical city of the "Old Continent," while enhancing my academic knowledge and meeting new people.

Before leaving the US we printed any information we could find regarding the city's tourist locations, interesting cafes and historic buildings. Although Brugges is a very small town, it offers a lot of possibilities to those interested in exploring its excitements. But even if it surpassed our expectations, visiting only one European town or country seemed a waste for such a trip. Thus, we decided in advance to research the opportunities a young graduate student has while traveling around in Europe and the most convenient, cheap and interesting way to go from city to city and country to country was via train. The Eurorail trains are the simpler way people have to visit a variety of European destinations, as boarding a train actually offers to the adventure-seekers the possibility of having an extraordinary trip and admiring the countryside in the meantime.

In fact, upon the completion of the summer program, we packed our bags and traveled from Brussels to Amsterdam. The Netherlands' capital was a combination of beauty and adventure. The city streets, the people walking or bicycling around, the nice weather and its countless river docks create a unique combination of images, which are food for hungry eyes-like ours. Since we had less than 48 hours available to see as much as possible, we decided to pay a visit at the Van Gogh Museum, walk the Red District by night, and of course take the tram to travel through the city and gaze its unbelievable beat.

Next stop was Paris, France. Lucky as we were to find an available and affordable room as soon as we got off the train station, the next thing was to find a map of the city and its incredible metro system and travel around to check everything! Notre Dame, bridges, the Eiffel Tower, the Bastille, Champs-Élysées, small cafes and long walks across the Seine River or through the area of Montmartre, made our stay in Paris unforgettable. In fact, one of the best pictures we got from this trip was in front of the Arc de Triomphe and we took it by ourselves-both faces appear on the frame. Monte Carlo was our next and most expensive destination, but its beaches and sun gave our trip a legendary feel.

Next, we visited Italy. Florence and Venice, two of the most important trade cities in Europe offered us some life-time opportunities. Historical monuments, paved streets, canals, museums, restaurants and Italian cafes convinced us that Italy is actually much more than an interesting destination. In fact, I fall-in-love with almost every single building we crossed and by the time we had to catch our plain back, I though we have made a huge mistake; our eight day trip should have lasted a lifetime.

There is Nothing like Mace in Your Face

Mace is one of the original self-defense weapons.

And it’s been the best friend of many women, college students, senior citizens, and others who need a portable device to help them fend off would-be attackers. At first thought it is amazing that with all of the new self-defense technologies out there, mace is still around, and as popular as ever.

However, it is easy to see why Mace is still such a popular choice for personal safety.Let’s go back a few steps, and look into the very beginnings of Mace as an essential self-defense weapon.

Mace is actually a consumer version of tear gas, the old pal of police officers who would use the noxious agent to stop riots and put would-be bad guys (and sometimes rowdy college students) on the ground and out of commission.

Considering its industrial-strength chemical agents were designed for use with the police, Mace is a very able self-defense tool in most situations.But Mace isn’t perfect.

It works, by irritating the mucous membranes of a person’s eyes, nose and throat, causing them to tear, run and otherwise flare up with pain. They may get a headache, feel dizzy and have tightness in their chest. What isn’t this perfect you ask?

Well, as many cops have found out, if someone is high on drugs, drunk off his rocker or even completely out of his mind, he won’t tend to feel pain. No pain means no gain if you are using Mace.That could put you, an average American citizen, in a very tight bind if you are attacked by someone and the Mace doesn’t work.

For a cop, this problem isn’t such a big deal, because they’re also armed with things like a billy club and gun. But for us, we generally have one self-defense weapon, and if that doesn’t work, we could be in for it.Enter the next generation of Mace products, including products like Mace Pepper Spray and Mace Pepper Foam.

These products come with the original Mace tear gas chemicals in them, but they also have hot pepper mixed in, called oleoresin capsicum. It is the same chemical, in effect, that causes hot peppers and fiery salsa to burn your tongue and get your sweating. But in the case of Mace, this capsicum, or OC for short, is super concentrated.

Instead of just causing someone pain and tearing eyes, OC causes a person to stop and drop. It is an inflammatory, instead of just an irritant. OC causes eyes, nose, and throat to burn. An attacker’s throat swells to the point where he can only cough and can barely breathe. Their eyes swell so shut that they cannot see out of them.

In fact, the blood vessels in their actual eye balls swell so much that the person goes temporarily blind. Problems with their eyes may make them loose their balance and the lack of oxygen will hopefully stop them from being able to run after you.In other words, no one is able to fight through the effects of OC.

An attacker has no choice but to feel the heat, and leave you alone. It is this combination of old-fashioned tear gas and OC, in an easy to use and easy to carry form that makes today’s Mace the new friend of everyday citizens everywhere.