According to various news sources, scientists are predicting that 2007 is going to be the hottest year on record with average temperatures exceeding records set in 1998.
The cause? Global warming trends combined with an El Nino weather phenomenon. According to an International Herald Tribune article, Britain's Meteorological Office predicts that the warming El Nino phenomenon will continue for the first few months of 2007. The effects of this trend will be felt months afterwards.
The warm weather is already having a negative effect on ski resorts around the world, and the warming trend is likely to change weather patterns.
December 31, 2006
Three hundred degrees and 24 time zones
According to a write up by Yahoo! News, members of the South Pole’s 300 Club brave a 300 degree temperature swing as part of a traditional winter rite.
Yahoo! explains that initiates begin the rite in a 200 degree F sauna. Participants then jump out and run around the South Pole – through all 24 time zones. The catch? The weather outside must be at least -100 degrees F so participants feel the 300 degree temperature shift.
According to websites written by 300 Club members, the saving grace is that the extremely dry air in Antarctica is a poor conductor of heat, making it possible to sit inside the sauna without being scalded as well as preserving some body heat once runners hit the cold air.
Yahoo! explains that initiates begin the rite in a 200 degree F sauna. Participants then jump out and run around the South Pole – through all 24 time zones. The catch? The weather outside must be at least -100 degrees F so participants feel the 300 degree temperature shift.
According to websites written by 300 Club members, the saving grace is that the extremely dry air in Antarctica is a poor conductor of heat, making it possible to sit inside the sauna without being scalded as well as preserving some body heat once runners hit the cold air.
December 30, 2006
To click or not to click? - That is the question
Today more and more people are taking digital photos and using technology to share them through the Internet. However, camera use in other countries may be governed by different cultural norms. Being aware of these problems can prevent misunderstandings.
Sometimes the issue is a matter of security: In general, you should avoid taking pictures of anything to do with the military. For example, the US Department of State includes a warning to that effect in its Consular Information Sheet for the United Arab Emirates. This warning can easily apply to other countries including Canada and the US.
Sometimes the issue is a matter of courtesy: Many nations have different cultural courtesies when it comes to taking pictures. For example, the Samoan Tourism Authority recommends that you ask permission before you take pictures in villages. Learn about the local customs where you are traveling.
A good rule of thumb: When in doubt, ask.
Sometimes the issue is a matter of security: In general, you should avoid taking pictures of anything to do with the military. For example, the US Department of State includes a warning to that effect in its Consular Information Sheet for the United Arab Emirates. This warning can easily apply to other countries including Canada and the US.
Sometimes the issue is a matter of courtesy: Many nations have different cultural courtesies when it comes to taking pictures. For example, the Samoan Tourism Authority recommends that you ask permission before you take pictures in villages. Learn about the local customs where you are traveling.
A good rule of thumb: When in doubt, ask.
December 27, 2006
What is an IDP, and why do you need it?
In addition to allowing you to drive in foreign countries, the IDP has other advantages too.
The International Driver’s Permit is an internationally recognized license that allows you to drive in other countries without the inconvenience and hassle of additional tests or qualifications. The license is recognized in countries who signed the 1949 Convention on Road Traffic, and also in many countries who didn’t sign. The ability to rent and drive a car in another country can allow you the freedom to explore. The IDP is usually available through your local automobile association.
Additional advantages? In many locations, the IDP counts as photo ID. The IDP also provides a translated copy of your driving qualifications because it can be translated into ten different languages - English, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, German, Arabic, Italian, Scandinavian and Portuguese.
Not sure if you need one? Check your travel information and governmental advice for your destination to verify. You should also be aware of road conditions, safety concerns and local laws before you hit the road.
The International Driver’s Permit is an internationally recognized license that allows you to drive in other countries without the inconvenience and hassle of additional tests or qualifications. The license is recognized in countries who signed the 1949 Convention on Road Traffic, and also in many countries who didn’t sign. The ability to rent and drive a car in another country can allow you the freedom to explore. The IDP is usually available through your local automobile association.
Additional advantages? In many locations, the IDP counts as photo ID. The IDP also provides a translated copy of your driving qualifications because it can be translated into ten different languages - English, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, German, Arabic, Italian, Scandinavian and Portuguese.
Not sure if you need one? Check your travel information and governmental advice for your destination to verify. You should also be aware of road conditions, safety concerns and local laws before you hit the road.
December 24, 2006
Do they know its Christmas?
Do you know when Christmas is celebrated? The answer might surprise you.
Though many Christians celebrate Christmas on December 25, not all churches agree on this date. Eastern Orthodox churches, such as Russian Orthodox, celebrate on January 7 -- that’s thirteen days after other denominations.
Many countries celebrate other holidays associated with the Christmas season, such as Epiphany on January 6 which marks the end of the Twelve Days of Christmas.
Though many Christians celebrate Christmas on December 25, not all churches agree on this date. Eastern Orthodox churches, such as Russian Orthodox, celebrate on January 7 -- that’s thirteen days after other denominations.
Many countries celebrate other holidays associated with the Christmas season, such as Epiphany on January 6 which marks the end of the Twelve Days of Christmas.
December 22, 2006
When cash matters
Sometimes ATM cards, credit cards and travelers’ checks may be useless in some countries. Here’s what you should know about cash societies:
Many countries such as Libya are cash societies, meaning that reliable ATMs are rare and many businesses don’t accept credit cards. Certain designated locations such as airports have an ATM or the ability to accept cash wires. You should know how and where to access cash in case of an emergency.
Sometimes these countries call for travelers to be in possession of a certain amount of cash as part of their entry requirements. For instance, the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office notes in its advice that visitors to Libya must have the equivalent of 500 Libyan Dinars in order to get into the country.
When in doubt, check with you travel agent and double check with government advice.
Many countries such as Libya are cash societies, meaning that reliable ATMs are rare and many businesses don’t accept credit cards. Certain designated locations such as airports have an ATM or the ability to accept cash wires. You should know how and where to access cash in case of an emergency.
Sometimes these countries call for travelers to be in possession of a certain amount of cash as part of their entry requirements. For instance, the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office notes in its advice that visitors to Libya must have the equivalent of 500 Libyan Dinars in order to get into the country.
When in doubt, check with you travel agent and double check with government advice.
December 21, 2006
Do you know where to pack a snow globe?
Carry-on restrictions prohibit certain quantities of liquids, but what about snow globes?
Snow globes must be packed in your checked baggage, according to an update from the Transportation Security Administration. Size and documentation won’t exempt you from this rule.
Snow globes must be packed in your checked baggage, according to an update from the Transportation Security Administration. Size and documentation won’t exempt you from this rule.
Samoa still safe for travelers
With a variety of news sources recently predicting a slump in Fiji tourism due to the coup, Samoa is careful to distinguish itself from neighboring nations when it comes to safety and security.
According to a recent article in the New Zealand Herald, the Samoan Tourism Authority (STA) has launched a new campaign to promote itself as a safe and stable tourist destination, especially in the wake of the coup in neighboring Fiji. The STA’s website describes the country as a safe travel destination because of low crime rates and freedom from terrorist threats.
Critics of the plan argue that argue that Samoa may be taking advantage of the situation in Fiji, but the STA maintains that the campaign is to make sure people don’t “lump” all Pacific nations together.
Our advice? Educate yourself. Consult government travel advice to discover new travel destinations and find out what issues are present in a given country.
According to a recent article in the New Zealand Herald, the Samoan Tourism Authority (STA) has launched a new campaign to promote itself as a safe and stable tourist destination, especially in the wake of the coup in neighboring Fiji. The STA’s website describes the country as a safe travel destination because of low crime rates and freedom from terrorist threats.
Critics of the plan argue that argue that Samoa may be taking advantage of the situation in Fiji, but the STA maintains that the campaign is to make sure people don’t “lump” all Pacific nations together.
Our advice? Educate yourself. Consult government travel advice to discover new travel destinations and find out what issues are present in a given country.
December 20, 2006
Kiss with caution in Qatar
Can a kiss get you into trouble in Qatar? Yes, according to the Australian government.
While public displays of affection are commonplace in many countries they can land in you trouble in others. For example, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs travel advice for Qatar warns travelers that the country has strict Islamic codes regarding dress and behavior. There have been reports of Australians being detained by police for public displays of affection. Respecting local customs can save a lot of time and hassle.
While public displays of affection are commonplace in many countries they can land in you trouble in others. For example, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs travel advice for Qatar warns travelers that the country has strict Islamic codes regarding dress and behavior. There have been reports of Australians being detained by police for public displays of affection. Respecting local customs can save a lot of time and hassle.
December 17, 2006
Where to go for official advice
According to a recent survey conducted by Redfern Research, only 1 in 4 travelers consult government advice when they are researching their trips. What are you missing, and where can you find it?
According to Redfern, one of the reasons so few people consult government sources is that they are not aware of the services and information governments have started to provide in the past few years. Government advice is well-researched and reviewed, and contains the information that travelers need to know, such as current issues, travel warnings, country information and visa requirements.
For English-speaking travelers, here are the main advice sources:
According to Redfern, one of the reasons so few people consult government sources is that they are not aware of the services and information governments have started to provide in the past few years. Government advice is well-researched and reviewed, and contains the information that travelers need to know, such as current issues, travel warnings, country information and visa requirements.
For English-speaking travelers, here are the main advice sources:
- Smartraveller.gov.au (Australia Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade)
- Voyage.gc.ca (Canada Foreign Affairs and International Trade Office)
- Safetravel.govt.nz (New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade)
- Foreign & Commonwealth Office (United Kingdom)
- Travel.state.gov (United States Department of State)
While you should always check your government's advice for your travel destination, it never hurts to compare the content with other governments. Different countries have access to different levels of information based on diplomatic relations and geographic proximity.
December 14, 2006
Do you need a visa for the Cricket World Cup?
This year's Cricket World Cup will be hosted by nine Caribbean countries. Attendees may require a special visa to enter the host countries.
Matches will be held in Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent & The Grenadines and Trinidad & Tobago from March 13 - April 28, 2007. Exhibition games will be played from March 3 - 9, 2007.
According to the ICC Cricket World Cup website, citizens from many nations all around the world will require a special visa to enter these countries during the period of January 15 - May 15, 2007. This CARICOM visa is required for Australian and New Zealand nationals, but UK, Canada and US nationals are exempt. Registration can be completed online starting December 15, 2006.
Matches will be held in Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent & The Grenadines and Trinidad & Tobago from March 13 - April 28, 2007. Exhibition games will be played from March 3 - 9, 2007.
According to the ICC Cricket World Cup website, citizens from many nations all around the world will require a special visa to enter these countries during the period of January 15 - May 15, 2007. This CARICOM visa is required for Australian and New Zealand nationals, but UK, Canada and US nationals are exempt. Registration can be completed online starting December 15, 2006.
December 13, 2006
Don’t worry – the fighting isn’t real
Dramatizations of street fighting, exhibitions and religious ceremonies marked an important anniversary in Poland.
According to an article by BBC News, on December 13, 2006 Poland celebrated the 25th anniversary of the former communist government’s attempt to quash the Solidarity movement. The BBC reports that the crackdown started on December 13, 1981 and resulted in thousands of arrests and 100 deaths.
The recreated “street fighting” dramatized the failed imposition of martial law that started the downfall of communism in Poland.
According to an article by BBC News, on December 13, 2006 Poland celebrated the 25th anniversary of the former communist government’s attempt to quash the Solidarity movement. The BBC reports that the crackdown started on December 13, 1981 and resulted in thousands of arrests and 100 deaths.
The recreated “street fighting” dramatized the failed imposition of martial law that started the downfall of communism in Poland.
Mind your vices in Sri Lanka
Warning: New public smoking and alcohol ban in Sri Lanka could result in penalties.
As of December 1, 2006, it is now illegal to smoke or consume alcohol in public places while visiting Sri Lanka, warns a Travel Alert from Canadian Foreign Affairs. Those who are caught violating this new ban could face penalties as minor as a fine or as serious as imprisonment.
As of December 1, 2006, it is now illegal to smoke or consume alcohol in public places while visiting Sri Lanka, warns a Travel Alert from Canadian Foreign Affairs. Those who are caught violating this new ban could face penalties as minor as a fine or as serious as imprisonment.
December 12, 2006
Which Congo is which?
With political regime and name changes in the last few decades there can be confusion over the name "Congo". How can you tell which country is which?
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (commonly known as the DRC) and the Republic of Congo were once known as the Belgian Congo. Since their independence from Belgium in 1960, they have been seperate entities. According to the CIA's World Fact Book, the DRC was called Zaire until a rebellion in 1997 which resulted in a regime change.
While many governments refer to the DRC by its full name, they often refer to the Republic of Congo simply as the Congo. Many popular news sources refer to either nation simply as the Congo for brevity in headlines. This naming convention can cause confusion when conducting research or looking for travel advice.
When in doubt, look for the capital city. For instance, the Canadian Government distinguishes between the two by the capital city: Congo (Brazzaville) for the Republic of Congo, and Congo (Kinshasa) for the DRC. Popular news sources usually provide a city name.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (commonly known as the DRC) and the Republic of Congo were once known as the Belgian Congo. Since their independence from Belgium in 1960, they have been seperate entities. According to the CIA's World Fact Book, the DRC was called Zaire until a rebellion in 1997 which resulted in a regime change.
While many governments refer to the DRC by its full name, they often refer to the Republic of Congo simply as the Congo. Many popular news sources refer to either nation simply as the Congo for brevity in headlines. This naming convention can cause confusion when conducting research or looking for travel advice.
When in doubt, look for the capital city. For instance, the Canadian Government distinguishes between the two by the capital city: Congo (Brazzaville) for the Republic of Congo, and Congo (Kinshasa) for the DRC. Popular news sources usually provide a city name.
December 11, 2006
Do you know your UK geography?
If you're in Ireland, are you in Great Britain or the United Kingdom?
Contrary to popular usage, "Great Britain" and "United Kingdom" are not interchangeable terms. According to the CIA Factbook, Great Britain (also known simply as "Britain" or "the British Isles") is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. The United Kingdom's full name is actually "the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland" though it is usually called the United Kingdom or UK.
So if you are in Belfast, you're in Northern Ireland and the UK. If you're in Dublin, you are just in Ireland. Travel advice and pre-trip research should take into account these geographical and political differences. Most government sources will provide advice for both the UK and Ireland.
Contrary to popular usage, "Great Britain" and "United Kingdom" are not interchangeable terms. According to the CIA Factbook, Great Britain (also known simply as "Britain" or "the British Isles") is made up of England, Scotland and Wales. The United Kingdom's full name is actually "the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland" though it is usually called the United Kingdom or UK.
So if you are in Belfast, you're in Northern Ireland and the UK. If you're in Dublin, you are just in Ireland. Travel advice and pre-trip research should take into account these geographical and political differences. Most government sources will provide advice for both the UK and Ireland.
December 10, 2006
Australia advice for your travels
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s www.smartraveller.gov.au website offers country-specific travel advisories for Australian citizens. The advisories include important information such as Local Laws, Safety and Security and Health issues. The department also posts issue or event-specific Travel Bulletins for more in-depth advice. You can even subscribe to email updates or RSS news feeds to be notified when advice changes. Smartraveller also has travel tips, health advice and other general travel information.
An additional note: The DFAT advice is written specifically for Australian nationals. It never hurts to compare advice from different governments to see how they differ.
An additional note: The DFAT advice is written specifically for Australian nationals. It never hurts to compare advice from different governments to see how they differ.
New Zealand advice for your travel
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s www.smartravel.govt.nz website offers country-specific travel warnings for New Zealand citizens. The site reports on current security risks in each country, such as political instability, crime and threats of terrorism, that can affect citizens of New Zealand. You can even subscribe to email updates when advice is changed.
An additional note: The MFAT website does not have warnings or advisories for all countries, but it will direct you to other governments’ advice. It never hurts to compare advice from different governments to see how they compare.
An additional note: The MFAT website does not have warnings or advisories for all countries, but it will direct you to other governments’ advice. It never hurts to compare advice from different governments to see how they compare.
UK advice for your travel
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) issues Travel Advice by country which includes relevant information including Safety and Security, Local Laws and Customs, Entry Requirements and Health. You can find additional advice for current issues, such as Avian & Pandemic Flu, Risk of Terrorism and Hurricanes in the navigation bar on the left hand side of the screen.
Another bonus – you can subscribe to receive email alerts about changes to Travel Advice notices that affect you.
British nationals may also be interested in looking at the What We Can Do to Help section and the Know Before You Go awareness campaign.
An additional note: It never hurts to compare government advice from different countries to see what’s different.
Another bonus – you can subscribe to receive email alerts about changes to Travel Advice notices that affect you.
British nationals may also be interested in looking at the What We Can Do to Help section and the Know Before You Go awareness campaign.
An additional note: It never hurts to compare government advice from different countries to see what’s different.
US advice for your travel
The U.S. Department of State’s travel.state.gov website not only publishes visa and passport requirements, but Country Specific Information, Travel Alerts, and Travel Warnings as well. What’s the different between these types of advice?
Travel Warnings: According to the website, they "describe longer-term, protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable. A Travel Warning is also issued when the U.S. Government’s ability to assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or consulate or because of a drawdown of its staff."
In constrast, Travel Alerts (formerly known as Public Announcements) "describe short-term conditions affecting a country or region that pose imminent risks to the security of U.S. citizens. Natural disasters, terrorist attacks, coups, election-related violence, and major international conferences or sporting events are examples of situations that might generate a Travel Alert."
Country Specific Information (formerly known as Consular Information Sheets) is advice for each country that includes information on crime, entry requirements and safety and securty (among other topics). This is the information you need to know for each country to which you are traveling.
Also, check out Tips for Travelling Abroad and Consular Affairs Brochures for more advice and information.
Quick tip: Every government has their own resources. It never hurts to compare advice from other countries to see what’s different.
Travel Warnings: According to the website, they "describe longer-term, protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable. A Travel Warning is also issued when the U.S. Government’s ability to assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or consulate or because of a drawdown of its staff."
In constrast, Travel Alerts (formerly known as Public Announcements) "describe short-term conditions affecting a country or region that pose imminent risks to the security of U.S. citizens. Natural disasters, terrorist attacks, coups, election-related violence, and major international conferences or sporting events are examples of situations that might generate a Travel Alert."
Country Specific Information (formerly known as Consular Information Sheets) is advice for each country that includes information on crime, entry requirements and safety and securty (among other topics). This is the information you need to know for each country to which you are traveling.
Also, check out Tips for Travelling Abroad and Consular Affairs Brochures for more advice and information.
Quick tip: Every government has their own resources. It never hurts to compare advice from other countries to see what’s different.
Canadian advice for your travel
The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade’s Consular Affairs voyage.gc.ca website not only publishes visa and passport requirements and general travel advice, but also includes Travel Reports and Global Issues.
Travel Reports provide all the advice you need to know about a specific country including travel warnings. Look under Travel Updates to see which reports have been recently updated, or browse by country.
The Global Issues section features more detailed advice about a relevant issue or situation. These issues can be specific to one country (such as demonstrations or events), or apply to a variety of countries (such as avian influenza). You can browse by category or look for relevant links within the Travel Reports.
Quick tip: Every government has its own resources and distribution channels. It never hurts to compare advice from other countries to see what’s different.
Travel Reports provide all the advice you need to know about a specific country including travel warnings. Look under Travel Updates to see which reports have been recently updated, or browse by country.
The Global Issues section features more detailed advice about a relevant issue or situation. These issues can be specific to one country (such as demonstrations or events), or apply to a variety of countries (such as avian influenza). You can browse by category or look for relevant links within the Travel Reports.
Quick tip: Every government has its own resources and distribution channels. It never hurts to compare advice from other countries to see what’s different.
December 7, 2006
Watch your pockets on NY trains
New York transportation authorities are looking for ways to prevent people from ripping their pants, according to Australian news source NEWS.au.net.
According the New York Times, over $US100,000 has already been paid out in compensation to passengers. The problem is the arm rests which catch on pant and coat pockets, causing them to rip when unknowing passengers stand up. A smoother and shorter prototype will soon be ready for testing.
According the New York Times, over $US100,000 has already been paid out in compensation to passengers. The problem is the arm rests which catch on pant and coat pockets, causing them to rip when unknowing passengers stand up. A smoother and shorter prototype will soon be ready for testing.
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