There's a new way of seeing the world which has inspired more and more travelers in recent years. Eco-tourism and 'voluntourism' have become by-words for more responsible travel in foreign climes, but even with good intentions, the benefits of short-term projects can vary. However, community tourism takes a more insightful approach, emphasizing local involvement and control of the tourist industry and creating employment and training opportunities for local people. Thailand is one country where this kind of holiday is really making a difference.
Rebuilding communities through tourism
One reason why there is such a community ethic in the tourist industry here is down to the after-effects of the 2004 tsunami disaster, which destroyed a great many lives and settlements on Thailand's southern coast. Disaster relief charities like NATR (North Andaman Tsunami Relief) were set up to re-build and create projects to help those affected and this not-for-profit organisation now runs as Andaman Discoveries, a holiday operator specializing in community-based tours.
Thailand's Andaman coast is a desirable holiday spot in itself, with long, creamy-white beaches, desert islands and underwater reefs. But trips to seaside villages like Ban Talae Nok have taken on a community-based aspect, thanks to home-stays in native villages, where visitors can enjoy home-cooked cuisine, learn traditional crafts or explore nearby jungle terrain. While travelers immerse themselves in the way of life here, the locals gain a sense of empowerment from bringing money into their community and rebuilding it themselves.
Holidays that give something back
To the north of the country, the Chiang Rai province may not have had the battle with the elements which affected the south, but residents of the mountain villages can and do benefit from the kind of tourism which gives back, rather than takes away. Many communities near places like Kiew Karn in the remote countryside are now directly involved in tourism, working in partnership with companies like Asian Oasis.
Villages provide locally-made bamboo and wood lodges for accommodation, rustle up mouth-watering alfresco meals and local guides take visitors trekking amongst the wild banana trees and remote trails. There are options including elephant rides, village tours and craft-making such as batik, along with the more typical holiday relaxation activities such as massages, all managed by the community.
Even if you've come to the heady sights and smells of Bangkok on your Thai holidays, community river cruises operate from the capital along the Chao Phraya River, up-cycling old rice barges to provide an authentic experience. Not only this, but the funds raised from the tour boats have been injected back into the bank-side settlements and local dwellings, many of which have been damaged by flooding in the past.
Community tourism certainly argues its case well, if the positive evidence in rural and coastal Thailand is anything to go by. These kinds of projects can enhance the mutually beneficial aspects of a holiday, generating local economy, preserving heritage and allowing travelers to learn and gain from their brief visit. As an alternative to the party towns of Phuket or an all-inclusive, Western-owned resort, community tourism is one craze worth sustaining.
If you’re finding yourself inspired by these unique holidays, head online to find your cheap Thailand flights.
Friday, April 12, 2013
Tuesday, April 02, 2013
Exploring San Francisco's Lesser-Known Charms
San Francisco, California, is often referred to as the Paris of the West, but its unique identity sets it apart from any other city in the world. The city acts as one of the cultural capitals of North America, but it is also a major financial and technological center. Geographically, San Francisco is notable because it occupies a landmass at the end of a gorgeous peninsula, and it features rolling, hilly topography.
Almost everyone who has heard of the city has constructed a vision of it in their minds. For many people, the city is represented by cable cars, Alcatraz, the Transamerica Pyramid and the Golden Gate Bridge. Since these images are so ingrained in the culture, many people feel like they do not need to visit the city since they feel they know it so well already. However, San Francisco has much more to offer than just the famous landmarks that define it for so many people.
Walkable San Francisco
People who come to San Francisco for the first time should not be discouraged from visiting the city's most famous landmarks, but if they focus solely on visiting well-worn tourist attractions, they will miss out on the true San Franciscan experience. The city is extraordinarily vibrant in a cultural sense, and visitors who want a truly memorable experience should make a point to explore some of the lesser-known but equally enriching aspects of the city.
One of the best ways to experience San Francisco is by walking its streets. Consistently rated as one of the most walkable cities in the world, San Francisco features numerous distinct and unique neighborhoods that are best experienced by leaving the car behind and exploring on foot. One neighborhood that should not be missed is Chinatown. San Francisco's Chinatown is the oldest such community in North America, and it is home to the largest Chinese community outside the continent of Asia. Visitors can enjoy a one-of-a-kind mix of Chinese and American culture here, and they can explore numerous shops and dining establishments featuring true ethnic authenticity.
Another fantastic, walkable neighborhood in San Francisco is Cow Hollow. This neighborhood got its name because it exists on a parcel of land that was once used for grazing cows. Today, the neighborhood features a number of upscale shops and dining options. Health-conscious individuals enjoy strolling along the Union Street while checking out the various health spas and wellness centers that exist there.
Museums, Culture and Indoor Wonders
San Francisco's weather is known for its fickle nature. It can be sunny and warm one minute, and cold, rainy and windy the next. As a result, visitors are encouraged to make backup plans in the event that the climate fails to cooperate with their initial arrangements. Thankfully, the city of San Francisco features a number of terrific museums that can be enjoyed regardless of the outdoor conditions.
Perhaps the most famous museum in the city is the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, which is located in the South of Market neighborhood. The museum, which attracts more than 600,000 visitors each year, features thought-provoking works from the 20th century and beyond, and it represents one of the most notable collections of modern art west of the Mississippi River.
For family fun and educational enrichment, visitors should consider a visit to the Exploratorium. This facility mixes science and art in numerous unique ways that visitors can experience through more than 1,000 participatory exhibits. The Exploratorium is a tremendously influential museum that provides a world of wonder for every member of the family.
San Francisco is so well known that many people feel like a visit to the city is unnecessary. However, the true San Francisco experience can only be found by visiting the city in person. San Francisco offers something for everyone, and it provides a perfect setting for exploration, culture and much more.
Author Bio: Kevin Caldwell enjoys traveling and sharing his experiences with others. He often writes about his experiences and tips about traveling. You can connect with Kevin on Google+ to read more of his work.
Almost everyone who has heard of the city has constructed a vision of it in their minds. For many people, the city is represented by cable cars, Alcatraz, the Transamerica Pyramid and the Golden Gate Bridge. Since these images are so ingrained in the culture, many people feel like they do not need to visit the city since they feel they know it so well already. However, San Francisco has much more to offer than just the famous landmarks that define it for so many people.
Walkable San Francisco
People who come to San Francisco for the first time should not be discouraged from visiting the city's most famous landmarks, but if they focus solely on visiting well-worn tourist attractions, they will miss out on the true San Franciscan experience. The city is extraordinarily vibrant in a cultural sense, and visitors who want a truly memorable experience should make a point to explore some of the lesser-known but equally enriching aspects of the city.
One of the best ways to experience San Francisco is by walking its streets. Consistently rated as one of the most walkable cities in the world, San Francisco features numerous distinct and unique neighborhoods that are best experienced by leaving the car behind and exploring on foot. One neighborhood that should not be missed is Chinatown. San Francisco's Chinatown is the oldest such community in North America, and it is home to the largest Chinese community outside the continent of Asia. Visitors can enjoy a one-of-a-kind mix of Chinese and American culture here, and they can explore numerous shops and dining establishments featuring true ethnic authenticity.
Another fantastic, walkable neighborhood in San Francisco is Cow Hollow. This neighborhood got its name because it exists on a parcel of land that was once used for grazing cows. Today, the neighborhood features a number of upscale shops and dining options. Health-conscious individuals enjoy strolling along the Union Street while checking out the various health spas and wellness centers that exist there.
Museums, Culture and Indoor Wonders
San Francisco's weather is known for its fickle nature. It can be sunny and warm one minute, and cold, rainy and windy the next. As a result, visitors are encouraged to make backup plans in the event that the climate fails to cooperate with their initial arrangements. Thankfully, the city of San Francisco features a number of terrific museums that can be enjoyed regardless of the outdoor conditions.
Perhaps the most famous museum in the city is the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, which is located in the South of Market neighborhood. The museum, which attracts more than 600,000 visitors each year, features thought-provoking works from the 20th century and beyond, and it represents one of the most notable collections of modern art west of the Mississippi River.
For family fun and educational enrichment, visitors should consider a visit to the Exploratorium. This facility mixes science and art in numerous unique ways that visitors can experience through more than 1,000 participatory exhibits. The Exploratorium is a tremendously influential museum that provides a world of wonder for every member of the family.
San Francisco is so well known that many people feel like a visit to the city is unnecessary. However, the true San Francisco experience can only be found by visiting the city in person. San Francisco offers something for everyone, and it provides a perfect setting for exploration, culture and much more.
Author Bio: Kevin Caldwell enjoys traveling and sharing his experiences with others. He often writes about his experiences and tips about traveling. You can connect with Kevin on Google+ to read more of his work.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Most Popular Foods in Texas
Fans of red meat, chicken and all things spicy will find their culinary heaven in Texas as this vast Southern US state takes in influences from German, Mexican, Native American and Creole cuisine and blends them all to absolutely delicious effect. As the state is so large, it is no wonder that dishes vary dramatically from region to region, with Southern parts taking in strong influences from Mexico and adding a spicy kick to many recipes, whilst 'All American' cooking is evident in dishes such as the enormous sourdough 'biscuits' that may come dunked in gravy or smeared in honey or butter. Although beef is a big part of Texan cooking, the fried chicken steak is considered by many to be the real national dish.
The Texas Part Of Tex-Mex Cooking
Most of us have heard of Tex-Mex dishes such as nachos, fajitas and tacos, but how many of us could point out which of these have their origins in Texas and which in Mexico. In truth, Tex Mex cooking owes a culinary debt to both Texas and Mexico, taking traditional spiced Mexican dishes and corn or flour pancakes and adding US-influenced ingredients such as ground beef, melted cheese and cooling agents such as sour cream.
The Legendary Texas Barbeque
Texans love their barbeques and no trip to the state is complete without eating food served hot off the grill. Smoked meats are always firm barbeque favourites and beef is the most common meat, unlike in other US states, sausages are more likely to be made of beef than pork and smoked brisket is another popular barbeque choice. The culinary influence of European settlers, combined with African American and Native American cooking ingredients and methods, can all be detected in the unique and delicious Texan BBQ.
Texan Chilli Con Carne
Texan Chilli con Carne is a deliciously rich, spicy dish, but differs from Mexican chilli in that it does not include beans. Although chilli-making methods vary across the Lone Star State, as Texas is known, good quality meat chunks, tomatoes, onions and spices are the key ingredients in almost all Texan chillis. The resulting chilli is also used to make Frito pie - a dish that uses the Fritos brand corn tortilla chip to form a pie that is truly unique to Texas and a popular dish at informal social gatherings. Corn tortilla chips are also used to accompany delicious, creamy guacamole, made using the giant avocados that were first known here as 'Alligator Pears'. In their larger form, corn tortillas are used to make tacos where the corn crescent is filled with salad and chicken or meat, plus grated cheese and toppings such as sour cream or the tangy local version of salsa.
Vegetarians In Texas
The meat loving Texans are not known for their fondness of vegetarian dishes, but a vegetarian can still eat well in the state, especially those who are fond of spicy foods. Houevos Rancheros, which is a spicy scrambled egg dish, is a menu staple, whilst bean and chilli stews, meat-free tacos and enchilladas filled with veggies, tomato sauce and topped with cheese are all filling meat-free dishes.
Travelling to Texas? Looking for cheap flights? Click here for flights!
The Texas Part Of Tex-Mex Cooking
Most of us have heard of Tex-Mex dishes such as nachos, fajitas and tacos, but how many of us could point out which of these have their origins in Texas and which in Mexico. In truth, Tex Mex cooking owes a culinary debt to both Texas and Mexico, taking traditional spiced Mexican dishes and corn or flour pancakes and adding US-influenced ingredients such as ground beef, melted cheese and cooling agents such as sour cream.
The Legendary Texas Barbeque
Texans love their barbeques and no trip to the state is complete without eating food served hot off the grill. Smoked meats are always firm barbeque favourites and beef is the most common meat, unlike in other US states, sausages are more likely to be made of beef than pork and smoked brisket is another popular barbeque choice. The culinary influence of European settlers, combined with African American and Native American cooking ingredients and methods, can all be detected in the unique and delicious Texan BBQ.
Texan Chilli Con Carne
Texan Chilli con Carne is a deliciously rich, spicy dish, but differs from Mexican chilli in that it does not include beans. Although chilli-making methods vary across the Lone Star State, as Texas is known, good quality meat chunks, tomatoes, onions and spices are the key ingredients in almost all Texan chillis. The resulting chilli is also used to make Frito pie - a dish that uses the Fritos brand corn tortilla chip to form a pie that is truly unique to Texas and a popular dish at informal social gatherings. Corn tortilla chips are also used to accompany delicious, creamy guacamole, made using the giant avocados that were first known here as 'Alligator Pears'. In their larger form, corn tortillas are used to make tacos where the corn crescent is filled with salad and chicken or meat, plus grated cheese and toppings such as sour cream or the tangy local version of salsa.
Vegetarians In Texas
The meat loving Texans are not known for their fondness of vegetarian dishes, but a vegetarian can still eat well in the state, especially those who are fond of spicy foods. Houevos Rancheros, which is a spicy scrambled egg dish, is a menu staple, whilst bean and chilli stews, meat-free tacos and enchilladas filled with veggies, tomato sauce and topped with cheese are all filling meat-free dishes.
Travelling to Texas? Looking for cheap flights? Click here for flights!
Monday, February 25, 2013
Top 10 Places to Visit in the Caribbean
The Caribbean has a huge range of enticing holiday venues to choose from. Here's a look at ten of the best of them.
One of the most popular Caribbean islands, at least with visitors, is Barbados. Generally viewed as a little more sophisticated than most of the more rustic islands, this flat coral island is blessed with some of the region's most beautiful beaches. Welchman Hall Gully is a real treat for nature lovers and wildlife watchers. Wherever you decide to go; remember to buy travel insurance online to ensure you’re covered for any eventuality, be it injury or theft.
Sea Fishing and Scuba Diving
Puerto Rico is the Caribbean island to head to if you love deep sea fishing or a spot of scuba diving. The island is part of the United States, politically speaking and is blessed with some beautiful white beaches. Its capital San Juan, founded in 1521, is the oldest city in US territory.
If you want some variety to your visit, then the Bahamas has over 700 different islands to explore, as well as some of the clearest sea water in the world. Indeed, visibility extends for some 180 feet underwater, making seeing the coral reefs very easy. With some inviting markets and great golf courses too, the Bahamas offers a superb all-round holiday.
Music and Magical Weather
Jamaica is one of the larger islands in the region and one of the most famous across the world. As well as its more obvious features such as wonderful beaches and weather, there is also a vibrant musical and sporting culture to enjoy. Jamaica is the home of reggae and where the most famous reggae singer in the world, the late great Bob Marley, lived.
Lying just north of Venezuela, Aruba is a good venue to head to at any time of year. This is because of its climate, which is less humid than is typical in the area. It has no hurricane season. Attractions include casinos, shopping and golf, as well as beaches and the sea.
The island of St Maarten is interesting, because it is shared by the Netherlands and France, with a border between the two areas of control which has remained peaceably intact since 1648. As well as pristine beaches, there is also duty free shopping and great restaurants to enjoy.
The Dominican Republic is very popular with people who are looking to get married in exotic surroundings. The landscape here features swaying coconut palms and mountains. A varied geography means that there is plenty of wildlife to enjoy, as well as activities like bird watching and camping for the more adventurous.
US Virgin Islands Paradise
The island of St Thomas is the place to go if you enjoy looking at wonderful views as the sun shines. This one of the US Virgin Islands was once the lair of pirates like Blackbeard. An island tour is a wonderful way to see everything that the island can offer.
St Croix is the largest of the three US Virgin Islands and its geography includes rainforests and deserts. A laid-back place in terms of its character and temperament, the temperature remains higher than 80F all year round. This is a good island for the more active holiday maker, with horse riding, water sports and ATV riding all popular here.
The island of St John is the third of the US Virgin Islands and while similar to its neighbours there are also differences for the perceptive visitor to spot. Around 60 per cent of this island comes under the protection of the US Virgin Islands National Park.
One of the most popular Caribbean islands, at least with visitors, is Barbados. Generally viewed as a little more sophisticated than most of the more rustic islands, this flat coral island is blessed with some of the region's most beautiful beaches. Welchman Hall Gully is a real treat for nature lovers and wildlife watchers. Wherever you decide to go; remember to buy travel insurance online to ensure you’re covered for any eventuality, be it injury or theft.
Sea Fishing and Scuba Diving
Puerto Rico is the Caribbean island to head to if you love deep sea fishing or a spot of scuba diving. The island is part of the United States, politically speaking and is blessed with some beautiful white beaches. Its capital San Juan, founded in 1521, is the oldest city in US territory.
If you want some variety to your visit, then the Bahamas has over 700 different islands to explore, as well as some of the clearest sea water in the world. Indeed, visibility extends for some 180 feet underwater, making seeing the coral reefs very easy. With some inviting markets and great golf courses too, the Bahamas offers a superb all-round holiday.
Music and Magical Weather
Jamaica is one of the larger islands in the region and one of the most famous across the world. As well as its more obvious features such as wonderful beaches and weather, there is also a vibrant musical and sporting culture to enjoy. Jamaica is the home of reggae and where the most famous reggae singer in the world, the late great Bob Marley, lived.
Lying just north of Venezuela, Aruba is a good venue to head to at any time of year. This is because of its climate, which is less humid than is typical in the area. It has no hurricane season. Attractions include casinos, shopping and golf, as well as beaches and the sea.
The island of St Maarten is interesting, because it is shared by the Netherlands and France, with a border between the two areas of control which has remained peaceably intact since 1648. As well as pristine beaches, there is also duty free shopping and great restaurants to enjoy.
The Dominican Republic is very popular with people who are looking to get married in exotic surroundings. The landscape here features swaying coconut palms and mountains. A varied geography means that there is plenty of wildlife to enjoy, as well as activities like bird watching and camping for the more adventurous.
US Virgin Islands Paradise
The island of St Thomas is the place to go if you enjoy looking at wonderful views as the sun shines. This one of the US Virgin Islands was once the lair of pirates like Blackbeard. An island tour is a wonderful way to see everything that the island can offer.
St Croix is the largest of the three US Virgin Islands and its geography includes rainforests and deserts. A laid-back place in terms of its character and temperament, the temperature remains higher than 80F all year round. This is a good island for the more active holiday maker, with horse riding, water sports and ATV riding all popular here.
The island of St John is the third of the US Virgin Islands and while similar to its neighbours there are also differences for the perceptive visitor to spot. Around 60 per cent of this island comes under the protection of the US Virgin Islands National Park.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Packing Tips For Your Vacation
Planning a vacation requires a wide range of considerations. Although packing is often a last concern, it is an important part of ensuring that the vacation is a relaxing and happy experience. Packing for a vacation is different than packing for business or a move. It does not require the same volume of items and needs to consider comfort along with the aesthetics of items
Keep the Bags Limited
Packing for a vacation does not require taking the entire closet. The amount of clothing, shoes and other items that are needed is often limited to one or two weeks rather than an extended stay. As a result, it is possible to use one piece of luggage and one carry-on bag to plan for the entire trip
Keeping the bags limited will allow more flexibility at the airport or through any preferred mode of transportation. A single checked bag is also less expensive and is the only requirement when planning a short trip. An extended vacation should plan around two check bags if it is not possible to pack everything in a single bag
Limit Clothing
Although it is not pleasant to clean clothing on a vacation, it is also not necessary to pack the entire wardrobe. As a general rule, having enough clothing for one week is the best way to plan. It is possible to clean clothes on a vacation through a hotel laundry service or similar options. By limiting the clothing to a week's worth of outfits, it is easier to carry the bags and the amount of space required is limited
Avoid Extra Shoes
Unless the vacation is planning around two or three shoe requirements, it is generally better to avoid taking an extra pair of shoes while planning a relaxing trip. Extra shoes take up a large amount of space in a bag and might not be worn during the trip. If the trip has plans that require more than one pair of shoes, then it is best to pack shoes that have multiple functions and carry the minimum number possible based on the plans
If the vacation includes a formal event, then packing an extra pair of formal shoes and a formal outfit is appropriate. The trip and activities will often dictate the appropriate number of shoes
Use a Bundle Packing Method
Due to the limited space available when planning a vacation and limiting the bags, it is best to apply a bundle packing method to reduce the amount of space clothing items take up. The goal of packing for a vacation is leaving extra space and weight to bring back souvenirs and special items. That means bundle packing is a useful part of cutting back on the space required for the trip
Bundle packing requires placing similar clothing items in the same pile and folding it as one garment. Start with the larger items and work down to smaller items. This will reduce the amount of space used for packing clothing when compared to putting each item in the suitcase separately. It also reduces the amount of wrinkles by keeping the clothing from moving in the bag
Carry Important Documents
Any identification, plane tickets, reservation details and other information should not be backed in the checked baggage. Always carry important documents and papers in carry-on to avoid losing it if the luggage gets lost. It is also ideal to carry at least one outfit in carry-on in case the checked baggage is lost and takes a day or two to arrive at the hotel
Packing for a vacation requires planning based on the length of time, activities and the amount of space available. By limiting the number of items, more space is available for special items, gifts or last minute necessities.
Kevin Caldwell wrote this article for the site he built www.sanfranciscohotelguides.com. He built the site to help fellow travelers find hotels in San Francisco.
Keep the Bags Limited
Packing for a vacation does not require taking the entire closet. The amount of clothing, shoes and other items that are needed is often limited to one or two weeks rather than an extended stay. As a result, it is possible to use one piece of luggage and one carry-on bag to plan for the entire trip
Keeping the bags limited will allow more flexibility at the airport or through any preferred mode of transportation. A single checked bag is also less expensive and is the only requirement when planning a short trip. An extended vacation should plan around two check bags if it is not possible to pack everything in a single bag
Limit Clothing
Although it is not pleasant to clean clothing on a vacation, it is also not necessary to pack the entire wardrobe. As a general rule, having enough clothing for one week is the best way to plan. It is possible to clean clothes on a vacation through a hotel laundry service or similar options. By limiting the clothing to a week's worth of outfits, it is easier to carry the bags and the amount of space required is limited
Avoid Extra Shoes
Unless the vacation is planning around two or three shoe requirements, it is generally better to avoid taking an extra pair of shoes while planning a relaxing trip. Extra shoes take up a large amount of space in a bag and might not be worn during the trip. If the trip has plans that require more than one pair of shoes, then it is best to pack shoes that have multiple functions and carry the minimum number possible based on the plans
If the vacation includes a formal event, then packing an extra pair of formal shoes and a formal outfit is appropriate. The trip and activities will often dictate the appropriate number of shoes
Use a Bundle Packing Method
Due to the limited space available when planning a vacation and limiting the bags, it is best to apply a bundle packing method to reduce the amount of space clothing items take up. The goal of packing for a vacation is leaving extra space and weight to bring back souvenirs and special items. That means bundle packing is a useful part of cutting back on the space required for the trip
Bundle packing requires placing similar clothing items in the same pile and folding it as one garment. Start with the larger items and work down to smaller items. This will reduce the amount of space used for packing clothing when compared to putting each item in the suitcase separately. It also reduces the amount of wrinkles by keeping the clothing from moving in the bag
Carry Important Documents
Any identification, plane tickets, reservation details and other information should not be backed in the checked baggage. Always carry important documents and papers in carry-on to avoid losing it if the luggage gets lost. It is also ideal to carry at least one outfit in carry-on in case the checked baggage is lost and takes a day or two to arrive at the hotel
Packing for a vacation requires planning based on the length of time, activities and the amount of space available. By limiting the number of items, more space is available for special items, gifts or last minute necessities.
Kevin Caldwell wrote this article for the site he built www.sanfranciscohotelguides.com. He built the site to help fellow travelers find hotels in San Francisco.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Why Winter Sports Travel Insurance is a Must
If there's one thing you can learn from the kind of people that regularly take winter sports holidays, it's that they rate their daredevil credentials. However, behind every confident snowboarder or skier is a person who knows they're backed up in the worst case scenario.
If the potential loss of possessions isn't already playing on their minds, they've also got to think of their precious limbs in the event of a half pipe catastrophe. It's for this reason that winter sports travel insurance is arguably more important for snowboarders and skiers than any other type of holidaymaker.
These groups have benefited hugely from an increased amount of specialist policies entering the market in recent years, which are designed solely for winter sports trips. These policies rack up huge sales figures during peak seasons and here's why.
Injury
Take one look at a ski slope, quarter pipe or a snow covered hill and dare to say that nothing could possibly go wrong with you hurtling down it. Injuries are unfortunately part and parcel of learning to snowboard or ski and you can still expect to take a few tumbles even as a competent glider.
To ensure any injuries sustained aren't left to ruin your bank account as well, it might be worth finding a specialist winter sports, ski or snowboard travel insurance policy to gain the best possible service. A specialist policy will often include cover for any medical emergencies, with this feature serviced by an emergency assistance helpline. This should be available 24 hours a day, every day of the year to guarantee you can always find treatment.
Loss of equipment/lift passes
You can still gain 24 hour medical assistance through a standard policy, but this won't include cover for the hundreds of pounds worth of gear helping you enjoy the experience. One look at your kit will reveal just how much you're being trusted with, and learners have every right to be a little cautious when preparing for a fall.
Fortunately, winter sports travel policies will include equipment cover usually up to around £200. This will cover you in the event of your hired gear getting damaged, lost or stolen. You might have gear of your own to bring with you, in which case you'll benefit from even better cover - usually well over twice the amount of a hired gear policy. It's this feature that allows you to snowboard or ski without a care in the world, knowing everything is well protected.
Loss of personal belongings
Remember, winter sports travel insurance isn't just for if you injure yourself or fall ill around the arctic conditions. A winter sports policy will also cover some of the standard inclusions of a travel insurance policy, like bags, belongings and documentation.
That's right - along with the specific benefits of taking out a winter insurance policy, you can benefit from cover for cancellation of any sort, personal belongings, cash, travel documents and more.
Of course, the extent of this coverage and the specific items and events that are covered by your document will vary depending on the provider. You can get a good idea of what each company can offer through a price comparison site, or just hit the search engines for a list of the most well-known.
Either way, it's always essential to read your policy wording so you know exactly what you're entitled to.
Darren Morgan is a part-time writer and loves to travel a lot. Currently he lives in Woking, England. Here he has suggested getting a winter sports travel insurance policy is very important for snowboarders and skiers.
If the potential loss of possessions isn't already playing on their minds, they've also got to think of their precious limbs in the event of a half pipe catastrophe. It's for this reason that winter sports travel insurance is arguably more important for snowboarders and skiers than any other type of holidaymaker.
These groups have benefited hugely from an increased amount of specialist policies entering the market in recent years, which are designed solely for winter sports trips. These policies rack up huge sales figures during peak seasons and here's why.
Injury
Take one look at a ski slope, quarter pipe or a snow covered hill and dare to say that nothing could possibly go wrong with you hurtling down it. Injuries are unfortunately part and parcel of learning to snowboard or ski and you can still expect to take a few tumbles even as a competent glider.
To ensure any injuries sustained aren't left to ruin your bank account as well, it might be worth finding a specialist winter sports, ski or snowboard travel insurance policy to gain the best possible service. A specialist policy will often include cover for any medical emergencies, with this feature serviced by an emergency assistance helpline. This should be available 24 hours a day, every day of the year to guarantee you can always find treatment.
Loss of equipment/lift passes
You can still gain 24 hour medical assistance through a standard policy, but this won't include cover for the hundreds of pounds worth of gear helping you enjoy the experience. One look at your kit will reveal just how much you're being trusted with, and learners have every right to be a little cautious when preparing for a fall.
Fortunately, winter sports travel policies will include equipment cover usually up to around £200. This will cover you in the event of your hired gear getting damaged, lost or stolen. You might have gear of your own to bring with you, in which case you'll benefit from even better cover - usually well over twice the amount of a hired gear policy. It's this feature that allows you to snowboard or ski without a care in the world, knowing everything is well protected.
Loss of personal belongings
Remember, winter sports travel insurance isn't just for if you injure yourself or fall ill around the arctic conditions. A winter sports policy will also cover some of the standard inclusions of a travel insurance policy, like bags, belongings and documentation.
That's right - along with the specific benefits of taking out a winter insurance policy, you can benefit from cover for cancellation of any sort, personal belongings, cash, travel documents and more.
Of course, the extent of this coverage and the specific items and events that are covered by your document will vary depending on the provider. You can get a good idea of what each company can offer through a price comparison site, or just hit the search engines for a list of the most well-known.
Either way, it's always essential to read your policy wording so you know exactly what you're entitled to.
Darren Morgan is a part-time writer and loves to travel a lot. Currently he lives in Woking, England. Here he has suggested getting a winter sports travel insurance policy is very important for snowboarders and skiers.
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