Around Tourism

Indian Hospitals, Wellness and Medical Tourism players join forces to make India the Global Healthcare Destination - Indian Medical Travel Associatio

2009-11-05T04:00:00.000-08:00

Leading Indian Hospitals, Healthcare providers (both Modern Medicine and Traditional Indian Medicine), Travel and Medical Tourism Industry providers have come together to form an industry association - Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA) that aims to work together to make India the leading global healthcare destination.

The phenomenon now popularly known as Medical Tourism is often cited as the next big opportunity for India after the IT outsourcing to earn billions of dollars in forex earnings and create jobs in the healthcare sector. So far only a select group of Indian hospitals have been making valiant attempts to market their services in international arena. More than a million overseas patients already treated at top Indian corporate hospitals like Apollo, Fortis, Wockhardt, Max, Manipal and many others have already proved to the world that the clinical quality, technology and cost proposition offered by India is unmatched. The capacity in super specialty segment Indian hospitals is expanding fast and there is no waiting period for local or overseas patients.

CII Mc'Kinsey study first reported on medical tourism as the billion dollar opportunity for India way back in 2002 and the steady growth in overseas patient arrivals has validated the potential. With a large number of new private super specialty hospitals and even integrated health cities coming up in India's top ten cities, India has the potential to become the global leader in the Medical Travel/ Outsourcing industry. Indian doctors and professionals are world renowned for their skills and the country has abundance of all the inputs like talented young manpower, local high quality manufacturing base for pharmaceuticals, technology hardware and software that makes the Indian costs for high end surgical procedures so attractive. The challenge really is on the non medical side, primarily on the marketing front and also to create infrastructure and services to support the growth of medical tourism.

Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA) - a non profit body and a unified voice of the Indian healthcare (modern medicine as well as traditional Indian medicine) and travel industry is aimed at preparing India for facing the challenges of global competition and actualise the tremendous opportunity for India to become a leading global healthcare destination. Modern medicine as well as India's 5000 year old traditional therapies like Ayurveda, Siddha and Yoga can offer to the world an unbeatable healing package.

"IMTA would strive to help its members reach out in a cost effective manner to millions of our potential global consumers who reside on the other side of the globe in a different time and cultural zone and make them aware of the tremendous value that Indian healthcare offers. The fact is that prior to choosing a hospital, the international patients first decide on the country or the destination. Therefore we all must join hands to aggressively promote INDIA as a preferred global healthcare destination," Says Pradeep Thukral, Executive Director, Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA)

The Government of India and its various arms are actively supporting the growth of medical tourism to India. In a message to IMTA, the Union Tourism Minister, Kumar Shailaja conveyed “This is indeed a commendable initiative and we all know the tremendous opportunity that Medical Tourism presents for India. On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism, I would like to provide all possible support this industry initiative and would like to wish IMTA and its members great success in their efforts.

Two years ago the Government of India introduced a special category of Visa called M Visa for foreigners desirous of coming to India for medical treatment. India's Ministry of Tourism has achieved phenomenal success in last five years with its much acclaimed "Incredible India "campaign that has multiplied the arrival of foreign tourists to India. The current year 2009 is being promoted by Indian Ministry of Tourism as "Visit India'" year and the ministry is keen to promote Medical Tourism. It has recently notified the Market Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme to eligible Medical Tourism players which enables them to get financial support for participation in overseas promotional events.

VEIOVIS LAUNCHES MEDICAL TRAVEL WEB PORTAL

2009-11-04T03:59:00.000-08:00

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON — Veiovis, a global leader in overseas health care facilitation, launches its online presence with a medical travel web portal.

The exclusive website is custom-built for existing and potential Veiovis partners: patients, employers and health insurers from around the world seeking accessible and affordable first-rate health care solutions.

“Harnessing the Internet to make medical travel more reachable and viable for consumers underlies the intuitive design of www.veiovis.com,” says Gina Ramos, Director of Business Development for Veiovis. “The crisis of affordability and access in American health care, coupled with the crisis in the global economy, continue to push in on American households. These pressures are radically changing the way Americans spend their money, cultivating a new consumerism and appetite for high quality, cost-efficient medical solutions beyond our shores, ushering a new age of ‘globalization’ in health care that is best fostered on the Web.”

Veiovis charts its territory as a health care management expert. Its inherited legacy - TakeCare Insurance Company 35-year experience in health insurance, clinic operations and overseas patient care facilitation - safeguards prime medical resources and services and assures positive results for all partners.

As a global network administrator and travel supervisor, Veiovis connects patients to advanced medical facilities in Asia, Hawaii, the continental United States and the Pacific Northwest. The website is an intuitive exploration into ‘Veiovis Territory’. It illustrates the reach of the Veiovis global network and the key areas of strength and expertise of each internationally accredited provider.

Visitors to the site will be pleased to discover a host of services and medical treatments offered at state-of-the-art facilities abroad, each employing highly credentialed physicians and specialists. Centers of Excellence boast modern equipment and strong research foundations, some with professional affiliations to Harvard and Stanford Medical in the United States. International offices with English-speaking staff and language translators assure ease of communication, while Veiovis Personal Case Managers manage the entire medical travel process from a local and global perspective.

Veiovis’ brand of seamless, integrated care provides superior value to patients, employers and health insurers. It facilitates safe, convenient and guaranteed travel for overseas medical care.

The benefits of medical tourism and why medical travel is recommended

2009-11-03T03:55:00.000-08:00

Medical tourism is a booming industry. Medical travel essentially means traveling to a different location, generally a different country for getting medical aid. Medical tourism is not a new concept. The Greeks and Egyptians traveled to hot springs and other such salubrious places in order to get health benefits. This age old practice of medical travel has now become a blossoming industry.

Medical aid in the US is a highly expensive proposition. There are millions of Americans today who are either uninsured or are only partly insured. This lack of proper health insurance coverage makes it very difficult for the ordinary man to get medical treatment in the US due to the exorbitant costs. This is the reason many Asian and Middle East countries are proving to be great places for the medical travel industry. The inconvenience which a medical traveler faces as he has to travel to a new country fades into insignificance when weighed against the various benefits that he enjoys.

Countries like India and some other Asian and Middle Eastern countries are coming up with amazing facilities which they offer for medical tourism.

In order to cater to the demands of people coming from US, UK, Canada and other European countries, the nations offering medical travel are coming up with highly luxurious hospitals with the best health care anywhere in the world. The medical facilities available in these countries are in no way inferior to those available in the European countries. The medical cost is almost 75 to 90 percent lower than US and UK in these Asian countries which offer medical tourism.

There are several reasons which attribute to the success of the medical travel concept. The most common reason for undertaking medical tourism is the money which can be saved by getting oneself treated in an Asian country as opposed to a European. Although this is an important factor, it is by no means the only one.

Many people who undertake medical travel find the doctors much more approachable in the Asian and Middle Eastern countries. It is easier to get answers to your questions from a doctor who takes a personal interest in you and gives you his undivided time and attention rather than from a doctor who is so bogged down by so many patients that personalized attention and care is alien to him. Such overloaded doctors are generally very common in the western countries, while the health facilities which offer medical tourism ensure that they have more patient and caring doctors.

The countries offering medical tourism take a lot of pains to ensure smooth transition for the medical travelers into the new place. There are several businesses which exist in these countries whose sole purpose is taking care of every comfort of a medical traveler. Right from picking them from the airport to providing them with a local translator, everything is taken care of by these businesses.

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Medical Tourism Author by : Patrick W. Marsek
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Medical Tourism for Overseas Surgery - Medical Travel Industry Surges Despite Recession

2009-11-02T03:53:00.000-08:00

In these recessionary times, almost every industry is seeing significant losses.

Not so with medical tourism.

Hospitals specializing in medical tourism report seeing a 30 percent increase in business from international patients last year.

Discounting other nationalities, The Deloitte Center for Health Solutions estimated the number of Americans that traveled abroad for healthcare in 2007 at 750,000. As money gets tighter, more people are opting to travel long distances to save on their healthcare bills. Current research indicates that more than one million Americans are traveling overseas to receive medical treatment.

While traveling abroad for medical care is not a new concept, it is only in the past few years that the medical tourism industry has exploded. International hospitals in foreign countries began focusing their marketing efforts on global clientele and medical tourism companies like MedTrava were created to help fill the gap between the patient’s need for information, support, and assistance and the hospital’s ability to devote its valuable resources to this area.

With the current state of the U.S. healthcare system, it’s no wonder that many uninsured Americans are eschewing medical care in their home country in favor of medical tourism. More than 47 million Americans are uninsured and nearly 120 million Americans are underinsured. The statistics for certain states are appalling. Only 76.1 percent of Texans and 79.9 percent of New Mexicans were insured as of 2007. Worse still, only 81 percent of Mississippians and 81.5 percent of Texans could get medical care when they needed it.
President Obama recognizes the problems inherent in the U.S. system of healthcare, saying "Fixing what's wrong with our health care system is no longer a luxury we hope to achieve -- it's a necessity we cannot postpone any longer."

But with no clear idea of how the administration will pay for the estimated $630 billion price tag for its proposed reform, and with Republicans remaining vehemently opposed to nationalized healthcare, it could be a long while until Obama can make good on his promise of “It’s time to deliver.”

In the meantime, more and more Americans will continue to feel the pinch of healthcare bills. A recent Harvard University study reveals that medical bills play a factor in more than 62 percent of all bankruptcies.

And it’s not only the uninsured that are affected by hefty medical bills; 78 percent of those citing medical bills as a reason for filing bankruptcy were actually insured.

Part of this reason is the ever-increasing share of the medical bill insured consumers are expected to pay. According to a survey by the National Opinion Research Center and Watson Wyatt Worldwide, the annual out-of-pocket medical expenses for an insured worker increased 34 percent between 2004 and 2007.

The researchers recognized this problem and stated in their report, "in the United States, if you are sick and earn a modest income, then you are probably underinsured -- even if you have employer-based health coverage."

Health Insurance premiums have risen 73 percent since 2000, according to the National Coalition on Health Care (NCHC). Employers and insurance companies are forced to more closely scrutinize their health plans to contain the high costs. Employers are now covering fewer employees, reducing the number of covered procedures and increasing co-pays and co-premiums. In fact, the NCHC states that employee contributions have increased 145 percent since 2000.

Many insured individuals in this situation find that they can save more money by traveling abroad for their treatment than they can by paying these hefty co-pays. Some have been pleasantly surprised to find that their insurance company will reimburse them for part of their medical travel.

While many medical travelers take advantage of cost savings for dental treatments, facelifts and liposuction, a growing number are opting for open heart surgery and orthopedic procedures like hip or knee replacements overseas. Medical tourism can also allow a patient to take advantage of procedures difficult to receive in the U.S. Surgeries such as Birmingham hip resurfacing and cervical disc replacement were only recently approved by the FDA, so overseas surgeons can have years more experience than U.S. surgeons on these techniques. Procedures like stem cell treatment are also available in some foreign countries.

However, the bulk of the treatments medical tourists are seeking include orthopedics, cardiology, and dental. Patients are able to save up to 80 percent in these fields and receive superior treatment over what they would probably have been able to afford in the U.S. Quality of care at hospitals is comparable in quality to those in the United States. The Joint Commission International, an arm of the organization that accredits American hospitals has accredited nearly 200 hospitals overseas. Many doctors and surgeons are English-speaking and have trained at Western medical schools and teaching hospitals.

Medical travel companies can help expedite and facilitate a patient’s treatment. Once a patient contacts a medical tourism facilitator like MedTrava, it can connect them to carefully selected, pre-qualified providers and fast-track the sending of the patient’s medical records and set up a conference call with an overseas surgeon in days.

Surgery can be scheduled in as quickly as two weeks, and the medical travel facilitator can assist the patient with every aspect of their medical travels, from visa and passport assistance to arranging for a patient care manager, driver, cell phone, and hotel in the destination country.

While traveling abroad for surgery is not usually a person’s first choice, the quality of medical treatment available abroad is at an all time high—in some cases, superior to what is available in the United States. And in these days of a recession with no end in sight, being able to save 80 percent on anything without sacrificing any quality is a much-needed reprieve.

Patients Beyond Borders Taiwan Edition: Everybody's Guide to Affordable, World-Class Medical Care Abroad (Patients Beyond Borders: Everybody's Guide to Affordable, World-) Author by : Josef Woodman
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Cervical Cancer Surgery in India at Low Cost Facilitated by Medical

2009-11-01T04:04:00.000-08:00

Cancer surgeons in Indian hospitals are certified and have more than five to ten years of experience. Cervical Cancer surgery hospitals in India at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bangalore have English speaking and well trained medical staff that cares for its patients. The doctors and cancer surgeons in India at these hospitals are adept in dealing with complicated and emergency situations The advanced and cutting edge medical facilities available at Cervical cancer surgery hospitals in India makes them a reliable global destination for patients who are seeking a suitable and less cost option for recovery from Cervical cancer. Medical Tourism Company in India can be broadly defined as health holiday along with a provision for cost effective medical and surgical treatment according to the patient need. It also combines the wellness and healthcare along with the leisure and relaxation of the rejuvenating the person in all aspects.

Cervical Cancer Causes

Cervical cancer begins with abnormal changes in the cervical tissue. The risk of developing these abnormal changes has been associated with certain factors, including previous infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), early sexual contact, multiple sexual partners, cigarette smoking, and taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills).

Forms of HPV, a virus whose different types cause skin warts, genital warts, and other abnormal skin and body surface disorders, have been shown to lead to many of the changes in cervical cells that may eventually lead to cancer.

Genetic material that comes from certain forms of HPV has been found in cervical tissues that show cancerous or precancerous changes.

In addition, women who have been diagnosed with HPV are more likely to develop a cervical cancer that has genetic material matching the strain of virus that caused the infection.

These findings demonstrate a strong link between the virus and cervical cancer.

Because HPV can be transmitted by sexual contact, early sexual contact and having multiple sexual partners have been identified as strong risk factors for the development of cervical lesions that may progress to cancer.

Cigarette smoking is another risk factor for the development of cervical cancer. The chemicals in cigarette smoke interact with the cells of the cervix, causing precancerous changes that may over time progress to cancer.

Oral contraceptives ("the pill") may increase the risk for cervical cancer, especially in women who use oral contraceptives for longer than 5 years.

Cervical Cancer Treatment

Treatment of cervical cancer is directed at preventing precancerous cells from becoming cancerous cells.

This is usually a step-by-step process, involving the removal of cells or tissue to diagnose cancer and to find out how far it has invaded.
If the deepest cells removed by biopsy were normal, no further treatment may be needed.
If the deepest cells removed by biopsy were cancerous or precancerous, this means the cancer has invaded farther than the biopsy. In these cases, treatment generally starts with removal of additional tissues. As these tissues are removed, they are checked for dysplastic change to be sure all the precancerous or cancerous cells have been removed from the body or are otherwise destroyed.

India the home of tradition has now named as a developing country. New innovations are implemented in various fields. Medical advancement in India has developed so vast that attracts even the abroad patients for health in India. Cervical cancer surgery in India has got the name of best performance and India so called a right destination for cervical cancer surgery. Cervical cancer is one of the life threatening diseases that kill the person livingly. The study of cancer is called Oncology derived from the Greek word called study of mass or tumor. Cervical cancer is a preventable and curable disease if detected earlier.

The Rough Guide to South India 5 (Rough Guide Travel Guides) Author by : David Abram
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Facts about medical travel and the effect of recession on medical tourism

2009-10-31T04:14:00.000-07:00

The current recession has hit people hard. In these troubled economic times most of us have had to tighten our money belts. A number of compromises, right from entertainment to accommodation have been forced on us due to lack of adequate funds. The one thing which cannot be compromised upon is health. Scarcity of funds might lead us to cut down on those shopping sprees or even on the caviar, but delaying a cardiac surgery or even a dental operation due to financial reasons is not an option. However, medical travel , also referred as medical tourism is most definitely a viable option.

Medical travel refers to people traveling across the globe for getting medical treatment. Medical tourism is by no means a modern concept, traveling for health gains has been done since centuries. However, only recently has medical travel been converted to a highly lucrative industry.

Several Asian and Middle Eastern countries are profiting by the medical tourism concept. The cost of medical treatments in these countries is almost ninety percent lower than that in European and other western countries. Offering low cost medical aid to a western traveler seems a great idea for these countries to make considerable profits.

Medical tourism is a boon to the people in the western countries. Health cannot be compromised but with medical travel it can be achieved at a lower cost. The facilities which are offered by the health care centers offering medical travel are just as good if not better than the ones found in European countries. The medical capabilities of doctors are impeccable and the medical treatments, techniques and equipments are all top notch.

Medical travel is generally not undertaken for cosmetic or any other voluntary treatment. Medical tourism is undertaken by westerners with real health problems, right from a bum knee to a weak heart. In this phase of economic recession medical tourism is blooming as it offers a low price health solution to westerners. The disparity in medical costs between US and India (a nation offering medical tourism) are colossal. Cardiac surgery which costs up to $24000 in US is performed in India for a paltry $6000. Knee surgery which is very common amongst the aged if undertaken in US costs around $17000 while in India the same is performed for $1000.

This huge disparity in cost explains why medical tourism has become so popular. Traveling to a new country might be an inconvenience to some, but compared to the benefits that medical travel offers this inconvenience pales into insignificance. Medical travel also provides the opportunity for people to club their medical trip with a vacation. Asian and Middle Eastern countries are very popular tourist attractions apart from being nations which support medical travel.

Medical tourism has led to the booming of some other related businesses as well. There are companies whose sole responsibility is to cater to the demands of a medical traveler.

Medical travel has always been a booming business but in these financially troubled times the significance of medical tourism has increased manifold.

Facts about medical travel and the effect of recession on medical tourism

2009-10-30T04:13:00.000-07:00

The current recession has hit people hard. In these troubled economic times most of us have had to tighten our money belts. A number of compromises, right from entertainment to accommodation have been forced on us due to lack of adequate funds. The one thing which cannot be compromised upon is health. Scarcity of funds might lead us to cut down on those shopping sprees or even on the caviar, but delaying a cardiac surgery or even a dental operation due to financial reasons is not an option. However, medical travel, also referred as medical tourism is most definitely a viable option.

Medical tourism has led to the booming of some other related businesses as well. There are companies whose sole responsibility is to cater to the demands of a medical traveler.

Medical travel has always been a booming business but in these financially troubled times the significance of medical tourism has increased manifold.

International medical travel made easy by firms offering a number of health travel facilities

2009-10-29T04:12:00.000-07:00

International medical travel or health travel as it is commonly called is a flourishing industry in today’s health conscious times. International medical travel refers to traveling abroad in order to get some medical treatments. These treatments range from the cosmetic ones to something as important as cardiac surgery. Dental treatments are also commonly undertaken in health travel.

There are several Asian and Middle Eastern countries in the world which offer world class facilities and the best of medical techniques, know how and equipment for a fraction of the costs that are incurred in western countries. International medical travel sounds like a costly affair, as it would involve traveling and lodging in a different country altogether. However, these expenses pale into insignificance when compared with the fact that countries offering health travel often have medical costs which are up to ninety percent less than the western countries.

A study shows that a staggering 16% of the US population is ‘Uninsured’. Such people with no medical insurance to cover their treatment costs can be greatly benefited by international medical travel. A knee surgery which might cost as much as $17000 in US can be undertaken for $1000 in another country. A staggering difference in costs indeed and it certainly explains the popularity of health travel. Insurance companies have decreased their coverage in these economically troubled times and this has led to millions of people being underinsured. Only a fraction of the total cost incurred can be retrieved through insurance and so more and more people are also resorting to health travel.

These health care facilities are highly luxurious ones. These ensure that the western patients coming in for health care are offered the same amenities that they might have in a western hospital. There are several health travel facilitators which have tie ups with these health care centers and also with the travel industry. They arrange for everything, right from travel and lodging to a local translator for the people traveling to a new country to avail the health care benefits. Even visa and passports are taken care of by these companies, international medical travel might sound daunting; traveling to a new country to get treated is not a walk in the park after all, but these firms catering to the medical traveler needs make health travel very easy indeed.

The medical knowledge of doctors employed by the health travel offering centers are extensive. Only the best are hired by them. The medical professionals also come with the added benefit of being able to offer more personalized care and attention as opposed to the generally overloaded western doctors. The wait time in these health travel centers is also much less than what you can expect in US or UK. Patients feel happier as their questions are answered by the doctors and any concerns personally put to rest. Such direct contact with the doctors is very rare in western countries. Couple such individualized care to the best medical facilities possible and you get a great reason to undertake international medical travel.

Medical Tourism - How to Pick a Medical Travel Company

2009-10-28T04:12:00.000-07:00

Google any of the most-searched terms for medical tourism industry – medical tourism, medical travel, and overseas health care – and you’re going to find a lot of links to medical travel facilitators.

With all of these medical tourism companies out there, how can you differentiate between the reputable companies that have done their due diligence about their network partners and who have a proven track record of putting their patients’ first, and the fly-by-the-night companies looking to make a quick buck off of you?
Here are a few key points to look at when considering which medical travel company to use:

Transparent pricing – Before you sign any commitment, you should receive a detailed account of the price you can expect to pay. Some companies break down the price, so you know how much each aspect of your medical journey will cost. Others lump it all into a package price. However they price it, you should be aware of exactly what costs will be covered. Most reputable companies will at the minimum cover the following in the price they charge you:
-Transmittal of your medical records to the surgeon for review
-Assistance in arranging any passports or visas you may need (although the fee to acquire these documents will generally be extra)
-Procedure price (inclusive of doctors’ fees, hospital fees, and medications associated with surgery)

-Hospital Room and three meals a day for you and a companion for a specified number of days after surgery -Flight arrangements

-Hotel costs

-Transportation to and from the airport

-Transportation to and from the hospital for pre- and post-operative care

You may also pay extra for additional amenities such as a cell phone, but this should be clearly stated in your contract.

Communication with your surgeon – A good medical travel company should offer you a free conference call with a surgeon before you have made any financial obligation to go. This benefits you by letting you discuss the different treatment plans available based on your condition. You will be able to determine whether you feel comfortable with the surgeon and with the surgeon’s medical philosophy.

Some medical tourism companies will require a certain degree of commitment before scheduling the conference call. MedTrava, for example, prefers to have patients submit any medical records they have and fill out a medical evaluation form. This allows the surgeon to review your records and to direct his comments specifically tailored to your case, making the call much more valuable for you.

Having a conference call with a prospective surgeon does not indicate any obligation on your end. With a reputable medical travel company, if you do not feel comfortable with the surgeon you should be able to ask for a conference call with a different surgeon, or if you choose to seek care elsewhere you can request the return or destruction of your medical records. Complimentary conference calls are a service provided by good medical tourism companies to help you-the patient-feel comfortable about your decision to go abroad for medical care.

References: In addition to setting up a call with a surgeon, your medical tourism facilitator should offer to put you in touch with one of their former patients. Not only will it reassure you that the company has successfully arranged medical tourism packages before, but it will give you a first-hand account of what to expect from your overseas surgery.

Money-back guarantee – If at any point during your medical travel journey - prior to actually having the surgery - you decide not to go through your planned surgery, a good medical travel facilitator will refund you all of the money you have paid, except for the expenses you have already incurred (airfare, hotel, etc.) Your medical tourism company should have enough faith in the doctors and hospitals in their network that they should be willing to offer you this guarantee. It’s in our best interest to make sure our patients return home satisfied – even if that means allowing you the option of bowing out of surgery if you don’t feel comfortable.

In-country patient care manager – One of the benefits of using a medical travel company for your overseas surgery is the reassurance that you will have someone to rely on for any issues or questions you have. All medical travel facilitators will have a patient care manager to answer your questions and help you out before you set off on your journey. But you should choose a company that can offer you a patient care manager in the country you’re traveling to. That way, you’ll have a point-of-contact, someone you already know in your destination country. If you ever have any communication issues, you can give them a call and ask them to translate and advocate for you, and they should also visit you in the hospital to check up on you.

Post-operative care – Some medical tourism companies consider their job done once you’ve returned to your home country after surgery abroad. The distinguishing factor of a really good medical travel company is one that promises to follow up with you after you’ve returned and who will assist you as much as possible with any questions or issues you have afterwards.

International Medical travel: A highly affordable way of getting health travel benefits

2009-10-27T04:11:00.000-07:00

The ever rising medical costs and the long wait which generally precedes any medical treatment are major contributing factors to the success of International Medical travel. Health travel is not a really modern concept. The erstwhile kings and emperors have been known to have traveled to retreats which were salubrious to their health. The same principle has now been embraced in international medical travel.

Several Asian and Middle Eastern countries are offering health travel to the western patients to whom traveling across nations is preferable to spending exorbitant amounts on treatments in their native country. US, UK Canada and some other European country residents are benefited immensely by international medical travel. The medical costs in these countries were always astronomical and are now soaring further. Add this to the fact that quite a few westerners are underinsured or even uninsured and you will get a perfect recipe for health travel.

Despite the added traveling and lodging costs that international medical travel entails, it is still much cheaper as opposed to getting treated in US or UK. The medical cost in the health travel offering countries is as much as 80 percent lower than in western countries. The low medical cost in no way reflects the quality of medical treatment offered in these countries. The centers offering international medical travel employ the best of medical professionals with extensive knowledge. All the modern techniques and equipment are present in these centers. The reason for the lower costs is much less labour charge in these countries. Very high labour charges and exorbitant insurance charges are what make medical treatment so expensive in the US and UK.

It is a testimony to the benefits of international medical travel that almost 20 million people traveled to Health travel offering countries last year. This number is predicted to shoot to 40 million in the next few years. Apart from the amazing monetary benefits health travel also offers quality treatments and personalized attention. Long waiting queues and a mere two minutes spent with the doctor post the long wait is not a common scenario in centers offering international medical travel. These ensure a more personalized attention to all their patients, with doctors actually going to the trouble of putting their doubts and concerns to rest and also answering any questions that they might have. Such a caring attitude is one more factor in the favor of health travel.

Traveling to a new country for getting medical treatment might seem a rather inconvenient prospect to begin with. There are several firms catering to all the requirements of health travel. The sole basis of the existence is to make life simpler and more comfortable for those undertaking international medical travel. They take care of all the traveling details, right from the tickets to visa. They also book comfortable lodging in the country offering health travel. Such health travel is no longer a daunting prospect. Infact, quite a few people are now clubbing health travel with their vacation. Considering the fact that many of the countries offering international health travel are major tourist attractions as well, this seems like a great idea.

THE TOURISM SYSTEM Author by : MILL ROBERT C
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Holistic Medicine Options Available Via Medical Travel

2009-10-26T04:10:00.000-07:00

As consumers learn more and more about their health care options, people are increasingly turning to holistic medicine to aid the healing process. Homeopathic and holistic treatments take a big-picture approach that looks at the dynamics of the entire body rather than focusing on a single issue.

Unfortunately, most standard American health care providers consider homeopathic treatments out-of-scope and require costly out-of-pocket payments.

Now, with new medical travel options, you have access to a different kind of health care--world-class homeopathic treatments performed by extensively trained doctors who appreciate the combined benefits of traditional medicine and holistic health.

Mexico has become a premier location for American medical tourism, with holistic practitioners versed in the following types of treatments:

Ozone therapy for back pain--a revolutionary treatment for disc herniation. In this therapy, a highly beneficial molecule, Ozone (O3), is injected inside the diseased intervertebral disk in trouble. Ozone reduces the production of pain-causing substances that are produced by a diseased or injured disc. It sets off production of antioxidant enzyme system that works on injured tissues that have been subject to long standing oxygen injury, releasing chemicals that oppose inflammation and indirectly relieve pain.

Colon hydrotherapy-- a gentle internal massage and bath using warm, purified water for safe, painless, and effective of cleansing your body's accumulated waste and toxins.

Cell therapy rejuvenation--a cutting-edge technology to transplant healthy cells into damaged tissue or cells. This process of biocellular rejuvenation stimulates healing, joint cartilage rebuilding, and a stronger immune system.

Chelation- the use of chelating agents to detoxify poisonous metal agents such as mercury, arsenic, and lead by converting them to a chemically inert form that can be excreted without further interaction with the body.

Tourism: Principles, Practices, Philosophies Author by : Charles R. Goeldner
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Medical Tourism: Its Emergence, Growth and Potential

2009-10-25T04:08:00.000-07:00

Healthcare expenses have always been a major cause of concern for the general public. No matter how consciously a person builds up his savings from the earnings, it takes one major bout of illness to drain out a large portion of the accumulated savings. Health disorders are unforeseen and thus many people opt to cover such sudden medical expenses with some medical insurance. However, a health insurance policy sometimes falls a way short in covering up the costs involved in some medical procedures. Even if a person has a health insurance, it still takes a considerable amount of time for the medical procedure to get started. The waiting period for a hip replacement could be more than a year in countries like Britain and Canada. Under such adverse scenario, the general public had to look for other alternatives outside their countries. If they are looking for a cost effective alternative for similar medical procedure, then medical tourism definitely is the way to go for.

Medical tourism is a service extended to the people all over the world to travel to other countries that provide similar medical treatments at comparatively lower costs than their own country. The health care providers of such countries have tie ups with various travel agencies. People desirous of seeking such treatments need to contact either the medical centers of such countries or the travel agencies who work in conjunction with some medical centers to provide healthcare tourism services. Among the various healthcare tourism destinations, India, Singapore and Thailand have emerged as most the popular ones.

If estimates are to be believed at, the medical tourism industry will be worth US $2 billion by 2012. Since the emergence of this industry, people from most of the developed nations have continually flocked to the medical tourism destinations to avail quicker as well as good medical treatments at low cost. A heart-valve replacement that costs around $200,000 in US can be done for a mere $10,000 in a country like India inclusive of the air fare and even a brief vacation package. A knee-replacement procedure costs a lot less in Thailand as compared to that of the United States. Most medical procedures cost around one-tenth of what it costs in countries like United States and Britain. Affordable and prompt medical care has made healthcare tourism a major draw among patients from all over the world.

The immense potential of the medical tourism industry has resulted in more healthcare investments in such countries offering the service. The Indian government is leaving no stones unturned to make it a global healthcare destination. The concerned authorities in Singapore has organized conferences and gained accreditations to attract more medical tourists. Similarly the other countries venturing into medical tourism are also taking necessary steps to popularize themselves. In the next few years medical tourism industry will continue to grow bigger and serve people all over the world with cost effective and superior medical treatments.

Medical Tourism – Getting Well Just Got a Whole Lot Cheaper!

2009-10-24T04:07:00.000-07:00

Medical tourism, even a decade back, was largely unheard of. However, in recent years, medical tourism has become an industry on its own. It is a phenomenon that has taken the world of healthcare by storm. Its impact can be felt strongly in the tourism industry as well. Everyday we get to hear about how medical tourism has helped, and continuing to do so, countless people get better at affordable costs. So, what is medical tourism? Why is everybody talking about it these days? Let’s take a closer look.

Medical tourism, as the name itself suggests, is a combination of medical services with tourism. In other words, it’s tourism with a purpose. The practice of visiting new places in search of favorable climate or on just being advised by a doctor to go ‘on a change’ is not new. Medical tourism is just an evolved form of this age old habit of humanity.

The primary reason behind its surging popularity is better healthcare services at an affordable budget. When one’s health is one’s concern, it is natural to look for the best treatment options within one’s budget. Countries such as India, Malaysia and Dubai are fast coming to the forefront as provider of world-class healthcare facilities. These include a wide array of highly skilled healthcare professionals, trained in various specialized disciplines, state-of-the-art equipment and modern amenities, impeccable service and personal attention to every need of the patient, and all these at a cost that’s surprisingly affordable.

Let’s face it, medical services in the west are expensive by most standards. Most people in need of specialized healthcare services feel daunted by the high cost associated with them. Countries such as US, Canada or some European nations, offer the same high standard healthcare facilities as India, Malaysia or Dubai, at a cost that’s substantially greater. Frankly, not everybody can afford the high cost associated with healthcare services in his or her own country.

All this naturally necessitates the need to look for similar healthcare services elsewhere, where the cost is significantly lower. Healthcare tourism makes it possible to save up to 80% (as compared to US/UK) on medical costs by opting for countries like India. Healthcare tourism in India is fast gaining in popularity because of this simple reason.
Medical tourism also gives you other advantages such as reduced waiting periods for your treatment. If there is a critical treatment involved, or an operation that needs to be done quickly, you can initiate the process almost immediately after contacting the healthcare professionals in these countries. Most hospitals or medical establishments in the US or UK have lengthy waiting lists and necessitate wait for a substantially longer period of time.

Medical tourism does not mean that you have to compromise on anything just because you are not in your own country. Smart and well-informed professionals, speaking fluent English and attending to every detail with meticulous attention, only add to the overall experience. You can rest assured knowing that the task of caring for your health is in good, able hands.

In the final analysis, the reasons that contribute to the ever increasing popularity of medical tourism are not difficult to understand. Exorbitant cost of healthcare and medical facilities in advanced countries, ease and affordability of international travel, favorable currency exchange rates in the global economy, rapidly improving technology and high standards of medical care in the developing countries - all of these have contributed to the rapid development of medical tourism.

Low Cost Appendectomy in India With Medical Tourism

2009-10-23T04:03:00.000-07:00

India is benefiting in a big way from globalization. It has become the latest hub for medical outsourcing, with patients from all over the world flocking to Indian hospitals for appendectomy. They are the new medical tourists and India is flaunted, as a medical tourism destination India's tourism industry is thriving due to an increase in foreign tourist’s arrivals and greater than before travel by Indians to domestic and abroad destinations. The visitors are pouring to have their appendectomy in India from all over the world: Europe, Africa, Southeast Asia and Australia. At the same time, the number of Indians traveling has also increased. India is probably the only country that offers various categories of tourism. These include history tourism, adventure tourism, medical tourism (ayurveda and other forms of Indian medications), spiritual tourism, beach tourism (India has the longest coastline in the East)

What is an appendectomy?

An appendectomy is the surgical removal of the appendix, a tube about six inches long or less that branches off the large intestine. The procedure is performed to treat appendicitis, an inflammation of the appendix caused by infection.
Acute appendicitis is the most common condition of the abdomen to require emergency surgery. Because of the likelihood of the appendix rupturing and causing a severe, life-threatening infection, the usual recommendation is that the appendix be removed as soon as possible.

What causes appendicitis?
Appendicitis occurs when the interior of the appendix becomes filled with something that causes it to swell, such as mucus, stool, or parasites. The appendix then becomes irritated and inflamed. Rupture (or perforation) occurs as holes develop in the walls of the appendix, allowing stool, mucus, and other substances to leak through and get inside the abdomen. An infection inside the abdomen known as peritonitis occurs when the appendix perforates.

Because of the risk of rupture, which may occur as soon as 48 to 72 hours after symptoms begin, appendicitis is considered an emergency and anyone with symptoms needs to see a physician immediately.

What are the symptoms of appendicitis?

Appendicitis may cause pain in the abdomen which may be described as follows:

may start in the area around the belly button, and move over to the lower right-hand side of the abdomen, but may also start in the lower right-hand side of the abdomen
usually increases in severity as time passes
may become more severe with moving, taking deep breaths, being touched, and coughing or sneezing
may spread throughout the abdomen if the appendix ruptures

India has one of the best pools of qualified professionals in every field of health care domain combined with world class Medical Facilities comparable with any of the western countries. India has state of the art hospitals and the best-qualified doctors for appendectomy. There is no doubt that the Indian medical industry's main appeal is low-cost appendectomy. Most estimates claim appendectomy costs in India start at around a tenth of the price of comparable treatment in America or Britain. Foreign patients can get package deals including flights, transfers, hotels, treatment and post-operative vacation for their medical visits to India. Many foreign patients prefer to combine their leisure and relaxation visits to India with healthcare. Medical tourism companies have tie-ups with the best hospitals of Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Bangalore in India to provide world class medical facilities to international patients.

State of the Heart: A Medical Tourist's True Story of Lifesaving Surgery in India Author by : Maggi Ann Grace
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Healthcare Tourism In Kerala

2009-10-22T04:01:00.000-07:00

the southernmost state of India is renowned world wide for its scenic beauty, picturesque beaches and tranquil backwaters. All these things very well attracts the both national and international tourists. But a new added feather to Kerala's crown is the booming of health care facilities in the state. Both Government and private enterprises collaborated to enhance the health care sector.

The state government has prepared some ambitious planning to merged the tourism industry of the state with the medical facilities. The term given to this collaboration is Health Care Tourism or Medical tourism.

From the ancient times, Kerala is synonymous with the magical world of Ayurveda known as to be the "mantra or science of life". But with the rapid changing world scenario, Kerala now emerges as a modern health care provider. To attract the foreign tourists and projects itself as a international destination for health care tourism, Kerala government has established some world class hospitals equipped with all modern technologies and well qualified doctors. Even the State government organizes some road shows in some South Asian countries like Sri lanka, Maldives and also in some West Asian countries to showcases the possibilities and major attractions of Kerala's health care tourism.

Thanks to the scenic beauty of verdant valleys, sandy beaches and placid backwaters, every year more than 15000 tourists from across the globe, choses Kerala over other tourists locales as a destination for health vacation. And the state government is hoping that by the year 2010 this number could be rises to 100,000. Most of the foreign tourists who throngs to Kerala for health care belongs to the U.S, the UK, Europe, the Middle East and the Maldives. Even the NRI's who stays in other countries prefer India especially kerala for treatment. Due to the excessive health care cost and long queues for medical treatments, these bulk of tourists opt for Kerala as because here in Kerala the medical expanses like cost of surgery and hospital charges are very cheap in compare to other countries.

Kerala government is offering various kinds of medical tourism packages which includes various services that come in affordable prices. This kind of tour package provides facilities like –

? at first the medical history of the patient is emailed and discussed with the related doctors.

? on receiving airport the patient is received by the representatives.

? he is than escorted to the hospital for treatment.

? on being discharge, a recuperative holiday at a resort is offered to the patient.

? before the final departure, a post treatment check up is done.

This are the inclusive facilities which are included in the package for the patient and the accompanying person.

In the coming years, it is for sure that India especially Kerala which has immense potential may attain the top slot in the country as well as in the world i n terms of health care sector.

Managing Foodservice Operations: A Systems Approach for Healthcare and Institutions Author by : John Barton Knight
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

India - the Global Hub of Healthcare Tourism

2009-10-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

The Indian healthcare sector has witnessed an unprecedented growth in the past few years. This phenomenal success is largely due to the increasing global demand for world-class healthcare facilities. India not only boasts of a huge pool of talented and experienced doctors but also is equipped with the latest technologies that aids in quality diagnosis and treatment of the illnesses. Apart from that, the medical services in India are relatively affordable as compared to that of the developed nations. Superior medical facilities at low cost is the prime factor that has been inducing patients all across the world to seek medical treatment in India. The growth of medical tourism in India has tempted many other countries to introduce packages offering similar facilities, but despite this, India still has an upper hand on them and is moving at a rapid pace towards its objective of becoming the global healthcare destination. Though the services provided by the other countries are good enough, India still continues to have an edge over the others due to a variety of underlying factors.

Some time back, the healthcare tourism industry in India comprised of a handful of big private healthcare providers promoting themselves through tie-ups with various insurance companies and travel agencies. Over the period of time, the Indian government realized the immense potential of the Indian healthcare industry as a major source of employment and foreign exchange revenue generator. It then started collaborating with the smaller as well as the bigger medical service providers and worked together towards the common objective of making India a global hub for world-class healthcare solutions.

Over 5 lakh surgeries, more than a million other successful surgical procedures, a success rate of 98.5% in cardiac surgeries till 2002, 80% success rate in bone marrow transplants and 95% successful renal transplants… statistics can’t get any better than this. India produces the largest number of doctors in the world. Most of these doctors have completed their specializations from premier institutions across the world. India too has some world-class institutions that train these doctors. The presence of some of the best hospitals and medical institutions equipped with good doctors makes India a global choice among the patients worldwide.

Medical research in India has experienced remarkable success in the recent years. There has been substantial investment in the field of biotechnology research. Apart from that India has emerged as a leader in stem cell research. The superior healthcare infrastructure available in India has led her being considered as the preferred location for low cost medical research. Similar research costs a lot more in the developed countries. Several bodies such as the DCGI and ICMR have worked out guidelines to promote medical research in India. The growth and achievements in the field of medical research in India adds further solidity to its global image of a preferred healthcare destination.

The advantages of opting for healthcare tourism in India are manifold. It is not only the cost advantage that works in favor of India in making it an upcoming global healthcare destination; the growing government intervention, private sector investments, country specific marketing strategies, overseas facilitation centers and the unmatched credibility of Indian specialists has played an even bigger role in making India a stronger choice among the patients worldwide.

Medical Tourism: the Next Big Thing in Healthcare Industry

2009-10-20T09:54:00.000-07:00

Medical tourism is the act of touring different countries or nations around the world to receive medications like dental, neurosurgery or surgical care and various other forms of specialized treatments. Medical tourism or healthcare facilitation is very cost effective and has grown to become very popular with time. Due to much technological advancement and improvement, standards of care and the affordability of international travel have become the primary factors leading to the popularity of medical tourism.

In the past few years, the costs of medical treatment or health care have soared high in industrialized nations and developed countries. And with this rise in health care costs, people from USA, Europe, Canada and Australia are seeking alternatives to reduce their expenses and build financial savings. This has prompted the people of developed countries serve as medical tourists.

Among all the nations where people are going for low cost medical treatments, India has emerged as a significantly favorable destination or a top hot spot. India is, now, one of the leading countries promoting medical tourism. With an increasing number of outside patients flocking to India for low cost medical treatments, India's medical tourism industry is doing pretty fine.

The focal attraction for the medical tourists is the price factor or medical costs. Medical tourists believe that, in India, the cost of surgery or other treatments is one tenth of what it is in European countries or in developed nations. The concept of medical tourism is new to many people and it is up to them whether or not they will find the desired medical treatment at a minimum cost. Medical technology has improved drastically in Indian hospitals and their standards have increased too, being at par with American and European countries.

Among all the various treatments that are done in India, the commonest are heart surgery, Lasik eye surgery, cosmetic surgery, neurosurgery and dental care. India has some of the best hospitals and treatment centers in the world with the best facilities. Infrastructure, technology advancement, outstanding doctors and medical staffs, world-class hospitals, all these have made India the prime location or the top choice for medical tourists seeking overseas health care.

The highlights of medical tourism in India are as follows:

·India has world-class medical facilities, with excellent staff in all areas of medical care
·Consultation with leading doctors or specialists
·Indian hospitals are equipped with the latest electronic and medical diagnostic equipments
·Low cost medical treatment or health checkups
·Luxurious rooms within affordable ranges
·Accommodation for attendants or accompanying family members are provided
·Ayurveda Therapy and Spa resorts available for relaxing and refreshing
·Exclusive Indian cuisines, Indian movies, Indian music and Indian dance
·Diversified cultural heritage in the different states
·Some top tourist destination spots like Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Qutab Minar etc.
·Holidaying, family reunions, festive occasions and medical checkups—all in one tour to India

Although there are many countries giving world-class medical assistance to the medical tourists who are seeking overseas healthcare or low cost healthcare, India attracts the most. Since it offers a beautiful holiday destination, apart from having a wide variety of low cost medical treatments, good hospitals and medical staffs, it is the foremost choice among people. Medical tourism India or health tourism India is an emerging concept whereby people from all over the world visit India for their medical and relaxation needs.

Technorati : Tourism,Medical Tourism

The 2009-2014 Outlook for Medical Tourism in India Author by : Icon Group International
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Medical Tourism – Getting Well Away From Home!

2009-10-19T09:53:00.000-07:00

Medical tourism, according to the simplest of definitions, combines healthcare with international tourism. Disparate as the two entities may seem, medical tourism, nonetheless, offers the excellent prospect of receiving high quality medical treatment in the lap of foreign hospitality. In the ever-changing world of international healthcare, medical tourism is a rising trend. In fact, medical tourism is a phenomenon that has taken the world of healthcare by storm in recent years. It remains a unique proposition that no only involves the healthcare industry but also has a significant impact on the tourism industry.

There used to be time when going abroad for improving one’s health, or on being advised by one’s physician, was in vogue. Such a practice of going ‘on a change’ is still prevalent in many parts of the world. Medical tourism is just an evolved form of this age old habit practice of humanity. The primary reason behind its surging popularity is that it enables the common man to get access to high quality healthcare services on an affordable budget. Countries such as India, Dubai and Malaysia are fast emerging as the forerunners in providing world-class healthcare facilities. These include a wide array of highly skilled healthcare professionals, trained in various specialized disciplines, state-of-the-art equipment and modern amenities, impeccable service and personal attention to every need of the patient and all these, at a cost that’s surprisingly affordable.

The cost is a major consideration almost always. Most people in need of specialized healthcare services feel daunted by the high cost associated with them. Countries such as US, Canada or some European nations, offer the same high standard healthcare facilities as India, Malaysia or Dubai, but at a cost that’s substantially greater. All this naturally necessitates the need to look for similar healthcare services elsewhere, where the cost is significantly lower. Medical tourism makes it possible to save up to 80% (as compared to US/UK) on medical costs by opting for countries like India.

Medical tourism also gives you other advantages such as reduced waiting periods for your treatment. If there is a critical treatment involved, or an operation that needs to be done quickly, you can initiate the process almost immediately after contacting the healthcare professionals in these countries. Most hospitals or medical establishments in the US or UK have lengthy waiting lists and necessitate wait for a substantially longer period of time.

So what can you look forward to after landing in the lap of foreign hospitality? Nothing less than what you would in your own country. Smart and well-informed professionals, speaking fluent English and attending to every detail with meticulous attention, only add to the overall experience. You can rest assured knowing that the task of caring for your health is in good, able hands.

The reasons that contribute to the ever increasing popularity of medical tourism are not difficult to understand. Exorbitant cost of healthcare and medical facilities in advanced countries, ease and affordability of international travel, favorable currency exchange rates in the global economy, rapidly improving technology and high standards of medical care in the developing countries - all of these have contributed to the rapid development of medical tourism. Online agencies like Recover-Discover are offering excellent packages in medical tourism. Such online agencies are a great starting point to find out how medical tourism can help you.

The Medical Tourism Travel Guide: Your Complete Reference to Top-Quality, Low-Cost Dental, Cosmetic, Medical Care & Surgery Overseas Author by : Paul Gahlinger
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Consumer Guide to Medical Tourism

2009-10-18T09:53:00.000-07:00

When buying a new car or even a small inexpensive object, you probably refer to a buying guide or try to find out what others who have bought the product in the past are saying about it to make smart shopping decisions. But when it comes to buying healthcare, do you do the same? You must.

Healthcare has gone global today. The rising cost of healthcare in the US has led many Americans to seek health-related services in other countries. There are sellers all around the globe selling health care packaged in attractive and appealing packages on the Internet. And people are shopping for health on the Internet just like they shop for products. In such a market, it becomes all the more important that you go through the medical tourism consumer guide before setting out for your medical travel trip.

Here is a quick consumer guide for your reference when buying medical tourism services.

Can medical tourism solve your problem?
Firstly, find out the problems that you want medical tourism to solve. For most people it’s either the high price that their local hospital is asking for because of lack of insurance or the long wait for surgery. You might have another problem but will medical tourism help you solve that? Find out if medical tourism is right for you by reading facts and frequently asked questions about it.

What are your expectations with the medical procedure you are seeking?
Is the procedure that you are seeking elective or medically indicated? Find out all you can about the medical procedure in question. This will help you answer a few questions: is the treatment right for your condition; are you the right candidate for this treatment; should you obtain this treatment abroad; what physical therapy and follow-up care you will need; do you need the procedure urgently or can it wait, or in other words, when is the right time to obtain care; how much time will you need to take off from work (which will include not only the time that you are overseas for surgery but also recovery time upon your return); and so on.

What all countries are out there where you can obtain treatment?
Check out the various international destinations that offer the treatment that you require. Some countries are known for offering good orthopedic treatments, some for their cardiac surgery, some for cosmetic treatments and others for their dental works. Travel and lodging costs add to your final bill so consider those costs not only when calculating the expected savings but also when choosing the international destination for your treatment.

How do you sniff the good provider from the bad?
The Internet has given anybody and everybody the liberty to sell their service making it all too easy for the consumer to land into a wrong place. When studying about a particular hospital or clinic don’t fall for slick websites offering services on sale. That, of course, doesn’t mean that slick websites offering healthcare services on sale are not genuine. The point is that you should do your proper research about the hospital or the clinic you are considering. Ask people around who have used their services in the past. Read their customer testimonials. Inquire about their doctors’ certifications, qualifications, training and experience. Call them up and find out what equipment and technology they use. All these will give you a fair idea of the quality of the healthcare provider. Ask for quotes from different providers and compare them. As you will notice, costs vary from country to country and from provider to provider. You shouldn’t automatically select the one that offers the lowest price but should base your decision on the quality of care offered.

Are your medical records in place?
Get all your medical records in order. At the time of pre-consultation, your foreign doctor may ask for your digitized medical records so he may evaluate your condition and prescribe a treatment course.

Do you have your passport and visa yet?
Next, acquire your passport if you don’t have it yet. Any companions traveling with you will also need to acquire theirs. Depending upon the destination you are heading to, you may require entry visa and therefore need to apply for that as well for both you and any companions.

Booking your transportation and accommodation
Book your tickets and hotel rooms in advance. After your surgery you can choose to recuperate in a hotel or a resort setting or go traveling in the foreign country if allowed by your doctor. But travel or tourism should always take a back seat on your medical trip abroad.

Taking proper follow-up care
Finally, remember that your treatment doesn’t finish with your surgery. How you follow the aftercare rituals as important as your surgery. If needed, prepare your home for recovery prior to leaving for surgery, like rearranging furniture. Also, in case you have even limited insurance coverage, find out if your insurer will reimburse you and how much they will reimburse. Even a small amount may help.
The above medical tourism consumer guide will help you make good decisions when purchasing overseas medical care. To ease your job you may want to use a medical tourism service provider to help you research, plan, arrange, schedule and book your medical travel trip. Medical tourism providers like Healthbase connect you with the hospital of your choice and provide you with many other related services while saving you valuable time, resources and money.
You can learn more about medical tourism, international healthcare providers, and the details of the medical tourism process by logging on to http://www.healthbase.com. Healthbase is a medical tourism facilitator committed to providing low cost high quality medical travel services to the global medical consumer.

Patients Beyond Borders: Everybody's Guide to Affordable, World-Class Medical Tourism Author by : Josef Woodman
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Medical Tourism in Mexico and Panama

2009-10-17T09:45:00.000-07:00

The term “Medical Tourism” also known as health tourism is becoming very popular in these days. It means to travel across different countries to find health care. These health care or treatments include common problems and complex treatments such as cardiac surgery, joint replacement, cosmetic surgery and dental surgery.

The customer and provider communicate through reliable sources to assure quality of service and making contract. Such medical tours need leisure aspects of tourism and travel. Health tourism patients should know the extra cost in traveling, health care and accommodations on treatment locations. The popularity of medical tourism is increased by many factors such as long waits for certain procedures, high costs, affordability of travel, standard and quality of health and care services. Medical tourists travel to Europe, United States, UK, Canada, Middle East, Canada and Japan to obtain quality health care services at reasonable prices.

Mexico

Medical Tourism in Mexico
The specialists of plastic surgery and dentistry are very popular in Mexico. Medical tourism patients travel to Mexico from all over the world to obtain quality medical care in dentistry and plastic surgery. Americans also move to Mexico for dental health care because the charges of dentist in America are very high as compare to the charges of Mexican dentist. Mexican dentists charge one fourth to one fifth of US dentists price. This trend of medical tourism to Mexico is very alarming for American dentists so they have spread many rumors of infections, oral cancer and poor treatments against Mexican dentists.

In Texas, it is explored that health organizations can operate on both sides of the border but physicians of south Texas argue that they cannot compete with the lower costs of Mexican dentists. Legal system of Mexico doesn’t allow any kind of sue against Mexican doctors. Medical tourists are satisfied with the quality of health services in Mexico and according to an advocacy group of health care issues 90 percent care they received in Mexico is excellent. Mexican hospitals are not popular only for dental and plastic surgery but they provide quality services for bar iatric surgery for weight loss. Lap band surgery, a popular bar iatric surgery is approved by FDA in 2001 in US is also performed by the surgeons of Mexico. The hospitals of Mexico are well equipped with latest technology and medical equipments for all medical tourism requirements.

Medical Tourism in Panama
Panama is also a popular place for medical tourism due to its tourist appeal, position and use of dollar as the official currency. The medical specialists of Panama are very popular all over the world and use latest technology and equipment to treat patients. Doctors of Panama are bilingual and can operate on the same technology and medical equipment which are used in Europe and America. The charges of health care in Panama are 50% less than the charges of US. In addition to dental implants, assisted reproduction, plastic surgery, cosmetic dentistry, cardialogy, eye surgery orthopedics and pulmonology are the popular treatments in the hospitals of Panama for people in medical tourism to this country.

The equipment and technology used in the hospitals of Panama is up-to-date and the hospitals are affiliated with international organizations such as Cleveland Clinic, Baptist Health International of Miami, Johns Hopkins International, Miami Children's Hospital, Tulane Health Science Center, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Harvard Medical Faculty and Physicians at Beth Israel, The Kendall Medical Center in Florida and Deaconess Medical Center in US. The doctors of these hospitals have latest information about the diseases and medicines.

US trained physicians of Panama provide high quality medical services at reasonable prices. The techniuqes used in health care, facilities and medications are not less than USA. Panama is rich with beautiful tourism destinations such as mountains, beaches and natural places which affect medical tourists pleasantly.

Technorati : Medical Tourism,Tourism

Panama (Country Guide) Author by : Matthew Firestone
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Medical Tourism

2009-10-16T09:40:00.000-07:00

Medical tourism is the process of traveling abroad in order to receive medical care, be it cosmetic surgery, heart surgery, breast implants, a hip replacement, or dental work.

Rising health care costs and longer waiting times in the western countries like United States, Canada, and UK etc. are inducing patients to seek treatment overseas. While U.S. consumers are concerned mainly with the exorbitant cost of health care, Canadians are more troubled by wait-times for certain treatments. Indeed, approximately 1 million Canadians claim to be experiencing difficulties in access to care. As for UK, it is believed that more than 50,000 people from the UK travel for treatment abroad because of high medical care costs in UK.

Medical Tourism in South Korea
South Korea has been growing as a tourist destination of choice for health and vacation because of their world class physicians, modern technology, and unique caring and compassion at great values for money at a fraction of the cost in the west. The country is home to some of the best hospitals and stand alone Specialty clinics in the world, offering world-class expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, http://www.koreahealthtour.co.kr and the warmth of hospitality. Also, some of the world's best spa retreat resorts and tour destinations can be found in this part of the earth. Additionally, it's not unusual to find plus accommodations, foreign language translators, and other amenities at some of the major facilities.
South Korea has made its initial foray into the lucrative market of medical tourism by launching the Council for Korea Medicine Overseas Promotion. Funded by the Government and 28 private hospitals, this organization will market medical packages to foreign patients seeking affordable health care. The Council has initiated a set of measures to promote the medical vacation industry by aiding hospitals in their marketing strategies. In this way, South Korea can generate greater overseas awareness of the country's medical and tourism offerings. According to a Council official:
The average charge for an in-patient visit in a US hospital is dollar3,762, which is 13 times higher than in South Korea.
The average charge for outpatients in the US is dollar13,000 which is 9 times higher than in South Korea.

South Korea's affordable health care system has seen the number of foreign patients rise from 10,000 to 13,000 in just 2 years. With all these added measures in place, South Korea is on its way to claim its share in the prosperous medical vacation business

Benefits of Medical Tourism
Health care costs are constantly on the rise in countless Western countries. In the US alone, it is already a multi-billion dollar industry that shows no sign of stopping (worldwide it is over dollar3 trillion US). But why pay exorbitant prices at home when you can travel abroad and receive the same treatment (if not better) from a fully certified medical facility for a fraction of the price?

The following are some of the benefits of medical tourism:
Affordable
For many procedures, it's often more expensive to receive treatment at home than it is to purchase a plane ticket, book a hotel, and pay for all medical expenses out of pocket in a foreign country. This is especially true in popular medical tourism destinations such as India, Thailand, Singapore and South Korea.

No wait times
Because popular medical destinations actively recruit patients from abroad, they do everything they can to eliminate wait times, provide patients with options, and ensure optimal care.

Many Options are Available
Some countries heavily regulate (or even ban) certain elective procedures or complicated surgeries. Hip resurfacing, for example, was only recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, despite its widespread use and success rate at many popular medical tourism destinations around the world. With medical tourism, you can travel to parts of the world where hospitals specialize in the aforementioned procedures.

More personalized care
Many providers offer more personalized care--i.e., a higher physician-to-patient ratio--than is commonly available in the United States or Canada.

Enjoy the Medical Vacations
The fact of the matter is, most of us need medical treatment from time to time, and most of us plan vacations every year or so. Combine the two into an all-out medical vacation and enjoy! Recuperating after surgery on a white sand beach while sipping island drinks and receiving full-body massages.

Important Tips
Besides doing a thorough research on the procedure, hospital, surgeon and the destination country, keep the following contact information handy when you go abroad for any medical treatment:
Emergency contacts like relatives and friends

Destination embassy
Hospital
Hotel
Local surgeon / doctor
Employer
Conclusion

Depending on the location and procedure, a medical vacation can cost 50%, 30%, or even 10% of what you would pay at home. The appeal of this phenomenon is driven by cost savings as high as 90%, depending on the procedure and the country in which it is performed, and virtually no wait times. Even when you factor in air fare, hotels, travel insurance, car rentals, shopping, and dining, many medical vacations are substantially more affordable than domestic health care is. This means that those who choose medical tourism are able to utilize the services of some of the top surgeons in the world, all while enjoying exotic locales and accommodations. Patients can put the money they are saving on the procedure into turning their journey into a magnificent, world-class retreat. For millions of patients, it is the only way to get the needed or desired medical treatment, without wiping out their entire life-savings.

Technorati : South Korea,Tourism,Medical Tourism

How India's Mission to be the #1 Medical Tourism Destination Can Benefit You

2009-10-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

The Medical Tourism Council (MTC) of Maharashtra has a mission of making India the #1 medical tourism destination in the world. The members are working diligently to bring together corporate interests in both the medical sector and the tourism sector. The vision is to offer world class medical services to foreigners in a land that offers exotic vacations as well.

Countries such as India have been quick to recognize that the Western world is not providing timely and affordable medical care to its citizens. In both the United States and Canada, it is not uncommon to wait for more than 4 months to be seen after a referral is made. Then, there is more waiting time while tests are scheduled. Additional time passes waiting for the test results. If the result is that there is a need for a procedure, it could be several more weeks before surgery is scheduled. Non emergency medical attention may be extended for up to two years. There is basically no wait time in foreign countries such as India.

The MTC is targeting several Western markets. One of those is the 43 million uninsured in the United States. What happens to the average person from a developed country, who is uninsured and in need of a heart bypass? If not aware of the option of medical tourism, the uninsured worker will face the choice of going without the surgery, or of withdrawing his life savings, or taking out a loan in order to pay for the surgery. The same worker can obtain the surgery in another country for $10,000 vs. $70,000 in the US. He can get a knee replacement for $6,000 vs. $50,000! Although still a large amount of money, it is much more attainable abroad than in the home country. The cost of services in India is approximately 1/3 less than other Asian countries that are competing as the destination of choice for medical tourists.

The Medical Tourism Council is also doing heavy marketing campaigns to Western insurance companies. More and more, it is the insurance agent who suggests (and in some instances, mandates) having the surgery done in another country. An increasing number of insurance companies are not only agreeing to overseas medical services, but are advocating or insisting that the patient obtain the less expensive services as a medical tourist. They are recognizing that outsourcing medical services to India will save tens of thousands of dollars in payouts, even if they need to pay airfare in addition to the medical bills.

The Indian Finance Minister recognizes that the opportunity exists to rebuild the infrastructure of the country, by generating medical tourism revenue. While the MTC is busy marketing, the government of India is working to ensure that state of the art facilities are built and that accreditations are secured. India is experiencing a medical tourism growth rate of 15-20% annually, and it is anticipated that 2.3 billion in revenue will be generated by 2012. The monies can then be used to provide a better lifestyle, including medical services, to the citizens of India who are living in poverty. It is anticipated that the flourish in the medical tourism industry will provide 40 million jobs to Indians.

India has long since been recognized for its top education systems. The universities are producing between 20,000 and 30,000 new doctors and nurses a year, designed to staff the state of the art hospitals across the country. Upon graduation, many travel to developed countries for further training. In the past, many of the graduates who have left their homeland to work in the developed countries have not returned to India. They have continued practicing in the developed nations, choosing to reap the benefits of the high salaries that countries such as the U.S. offer. The trend is reversing and now many of the doctors who have practiced as some of the top surgeons and specialists in developed countries are now returning to set up specialty clinics and hospitals. India now offers over 200 specialty services and is recognized worldwide to be on par with the best in the world.

The medical tourist destined for India need only decide which part of India they would like to visit and recover in. For those wanting the hustle and bustle of city life, a destination would be Delhi. Agra offers the medical tourist one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. Rajasthan borders the Thar Desert and has a history of romance and heroism. Goa is the home of miles of golden sand beaches and palm trees, and Kerela is the location of the networking of forty four rivers. Muntui (Bombay) is the equivalent to Hollywood in the United States and is the finance capitol of India. For those wanting to absorb the cultural mecca of India, with music and world class art, coffee and fragrances, one would want to travel to Karnataka, in South India.

The collaborative goal, powered by the vision of the Medical Tourism Council, is to make India the number one destination choice in the global medical community. The low costs and high quality services, the education of world renowned doctors, the cutting edge technology, the state of the art resort type hospitals and the beautiful vacation spots are all being highlighted by the MTC, and India is quickly moving to the forefront of the global medical tourism industry

Technorati : Tourism,Medical Tourism

India And South Asia: A Short History Author by : David Ludden
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

What You Need to Know About Emerging Trends in Medical Tourism

2009-10-14T09:35:00.000-07:00

Medical tourism is commonly described as the practice of obtaining medical services in a foreign destination. Although this niche market is now being capitalized on and becoming better known, the practice of traveling abroad for services is not new.

Switzerland, in particular, has long since been attracting the rich and famous to its beautiful surroundings, for innovative procedures and a relaxing vacation. There are many sources that site Switzerland as the pioneer of medical tourism.

Medical tourism is not just for the rich and famous anymore, and Switzerland is not the only destination. About ten years ago, countries in Asia realized that the opportunity exists to fill the unmet needs of millions worldwide.

For nearly a decade, the concept of medical tourism has been misunderstood and received bad media coverage in developed countries. Today not only has that trend reversed, but medical tourism is being embraced as a viable option for people in need of affordable medical care. Well known newspapers and television networks are doing pieces medical tourism as a whole and are spotlighting individuals who have taken advantage of the cost saving option.

What is driving the expansion of the medical tourism industry? Countries such as India have been quick to recognize that the Western world is not providing timely medical care to its citizens. In both the United States and Canada, it is not uncommon to wait for more than 4 months to be seen after a referral is made. Then, there is more waiting time while tests are scheduled. Additional time passes waiting for the test results. If the result is that there is a need for a procedure, it could be several more weeks before surgery is scheduled. Non emergency medical attention may be extended for up to two years. There is basically no wait time in foreign countries such as India and Thailand.

Another driving force is the outrageous and ever rising costs of medical insurance. It is not uncommon for a family to be quoted $1,000 or more for monthly insurance premiums, which only covers a portion of the bill, AFTER the $5,000 annual deductible is met! That equates to $17,000 in out of pocket payments before the insurance coverage kicks in. The average worker cannot afford $17,000 and in many instances, that figure far supercedes the annual income! In the United States, there are 43.3 million uninsured people.

What happens then, to the average person who is uninsured and in need of a heart bypass? If not aware of the option of medical tourism, the uninsured worker will face the choice of going without the surgery, or of withdrawing his life savings, or taking out a loan in order to pay for the surgery.

The same worker can obtain the surgery in another country for $10,000 vs. $70,000 in the US. He can get a knee replacement for $6,000 vs. $50,000! Although still a large amount of money, it is much more attainable abroad than in the home country.

Those in the medical tourism industry recognize that time is a precious commodity. Another aspect to the trends of medical tourism is to market to those who have little vacation or sick leave available to them. Multitasking is not new in the business world, and countries desiring to attract the medical tourist are appealing to those who would like to have an exotic and affordable vacation, but may feel they need to forgo it, in light of the upcoming surgery in the spring. Many countries are marketing their accredited, resort type facilities, and the amenities of the surrounding countryside to those in need of medical services.

We are truly living in a global medical community that knows no borders. With the Internet readily at the fingertips of anyone desiring to use it, information about various facilities, services, and destinations can be searched out. An emerging trend is for the facility to offer "inclusive" packages. That is right! You and a companion can now surf the internet and find an exotic location to have your serious surgeries, or one of a more cosmetic nature. On site travel agents are standing by, offering a package that includes discounted airfare, ground transportation, all meals and accommodations in a resort type facility, with internationally trained doctors and medical staff who will be extremely attentive before, during and after your procedure. The price will undoubtedly be about 1/6 of the cost of just the medical procedure in a developed country.

The bottom line is that medical tourism is here to stay. India has a goal of becoming the number one destination in the world. Other countries are setting similar goals. As they begin to compete with each other, vying for our business, services and options are increasing while the costs remain low. Most countries are seeing a growth of 20-30% in medical tourism, as medical services in the Western countries are being outsourced.

Technorati : Tourism,Medical Tourism

Patients Beyond Borders: Everybody's Guide to Affordable, World-Class Medical Tourism Author by : Josef Woodman
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Medical Tourism – A Fast Developing Sector In Healthcare Industry In Malaysia

2009-10-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

Medical Tourism is fast developing sector in healthcare industry in Malaysia. Year on year basis for last 5 years medical tourism in Malaysia, is growing with estimated exponential growth of about 30%.

The key factors of burgeoning rise in medical tourists in Malaysia are its affordable healthcare packages, excellent tourist attractions, world class infra structure, wide network of latest communication systems. An award winning Malaysian Airlines, MAS, service flying form all around the world, to Malaysia. An even low cost local airlines service providers like Airlines and Firefly has added affordability to this sector of development for medical tourism. An English speaking country, where healthcare system is wholly based on English and it is widely spoken at all level of work in healthcare facilities. The high conversion of USD to local currency, ringgit Malaysia also provides an excellent opportunity for travelers and tourists to come to Malaysia, to get more out of their money.

The most important components in medical tourisms are healthcare providers and facilitators. Medical Tourism Facilitators are the first contact with the patients in this industry. Medical tourism facilitator, websites like wellnessvisit.com, are there to provide all important arrangements like choosing the right procedure and best available hospital and healthcare provider, connecting consultant doctors with the patients, getting information channeled to and fro till finalizing the medical tourism journey for a patient who had no experience, of this before.

Medical Tourism Facilitators, like wellnessvisit.com, are there at the provider’s side to arrange all tour and travel services, booking hotel accommodations, receiving at airport, arranging personal assistants and helpers to concierge all the trip into a personalized affair. There are more service addition with the development of this industry. Medical tourism facilitators are arranging insurance policies, providing some home healthcare facilities through their partners.

Medical tourism is certainly becoming a hope for more and more countries and healthcare providers to reduce the increasing costs and over the waiting time issue for certain important procedures for their patients, due to shortage of experts. On the other hand it is shaping a new industry in tourism and health for revenue generation. Thus countries like Malaysia are fast becoming a hub for medical tourism and providing affordable healthcare packages for medical tourists from around the world at world class facilities.
Wellnessvisit.com takes care of all the steps to make medical tourism and health tourism trip a success.

Technorati : India Tourism,Tourism,Medical Tourism

Medical Tourism in Developing Countries Author by : Milica Z. Bookman
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Medical Tourism in India, a Boon for Tourists

2009-10-11T09:30:00.000-07:00

Medical tourism is nothing but traveling to other countries to undergo any kind of medical procedure including surgery and others. India is one of the front runners as a destination for medical tourism. Here the word tourism is different from the ordinary destination tourism. Basically this is cost effective tourism that is done generally by private medical practitioners in collaboration with the tourism industry.

medical tourism in india is catching up in a huge way and if you see carefully you will find that many people these days are opting for medical tourism in India. Under medical tourism you will find almost all kinds of medical condition and health conditions covered, so you just need to find out a destination that is offering you the best services and go there to get the procedure done. Medical tourism helps one to combine physical wellness with relaxation and leisure so that you are completely rejuvenated after the entire process.

Comparatively India is a recent entrant in the field of medical tourism, but medical tourism in India has made a huge mark and impact. In India the internet revolution and the revolution in the field of science and technology has made huge changes and medical tourism is a result of this. In India you can find the latest medical equipments and technology being used for treating various medical conditions. The cost of the treatment is much lower than what one would have had to pay in their home country. So this is very advantageous for people who are coming to visit India. Studies have indicated that the health sector in India is growing at about 30% annually and when this is combined with tourism one be greatly benefited by this. Today you will find many tour operators offering medical tourism to foreigners coming to visit India.

Medical tourism in India is gaining wide popularity because there are several things which work as an advantage for India. First the infrastructure and the healthcare facilities available here match up to the world class standards. Second the cost of getting the treatment done aboard is very expensive whereas in India this can be done at less than half the cost and the patient gets the best possible treatment available.

In India one can find a large number of medical professionals who are well versed in English and this is another factor for which patients from abroad opt to get their treatments done India since most of the things here are conducive to them.
Some other Asian countries like Singapore, Thailand and others are giving a tough competition to India in the field of medical tourism. However, with the kind of facilities and other amenities available here, it will take a long time before any other country can outdo India in the field of medical tourism. To take advantage of the best medical tourism facility in India you must get in touch with a good tour operator who will provide you with the best medical tourism package in India. Make sure that you do not lose out on visiting some of the famous places while you are visiting India.

Technorati : India Tourism,Medical Tourism,Tourism

....

Medical Tourism Guide

2009-10-10T09:28:00.000-07:00

Today, cheap yet world-class surgeries are just a flight away. But the deluge of information available out there can overwhelm anybody. So, here is a quick guide to medical tourism to answer most of your questions about the phenomenon.

WHAT IS MEDICAL TOURISM?
Medical Tourism is the process of traveling abroad to receive superior medical, dental and cosmetic care by highly skilled surgeons at some of the most modern and state-of-the-art medical facilities in the world...all at a fraction of the price in the US, UK and Canada.

MEDICAL TOURISM OFFERINGS
1. Incredible Savings: Compare a $7,000 hip resurfacing in India with a $48,000 one in the US. In general you are able to save 50% to 90%.

2. Excellent Quality: Many international providers are accredited by JCI, JCAHO and ISO or by local accrediting organizations. They have world-class facilities, have access to the latest technology and provide personalized service. If in doubt, read testimonials by patients who have experienced treatment overseas.

3. Surgeon Expertise: Most surgeons catering to international patients have either been educated or have received professional training at top schools in the US, UK or in other countries in Europe.

4. No Wait-Lists: Access to immediate service is what attracts those from countries that have public health care system towards medical tourism.

5. Longer Hospital Stay: You can have a longer hospital stay than possible in your local hospital back home under the supervision of your surgeon and physical therapist.

6. Travel Opportunities: While the primary motivation for most customers is affordable surgery, the opportunity to visit exotic destinations is an additional draw for some.

WHO SHOULD BE INTERESTED IN MEDICAL TOURISM?
In general, most medical tourists are either uninsured, underinsured or those seeking elective surgeries. Others resort to medical tourism due to the long wait-lists in their country.

WHICH COUNTRIES OFFER THE BEST SERVICES?
The most popular travel destinations are India, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Turkey, Mexico, Panama, Costa Rica, Brazil, Belgium, and Argentina amongst others. Some of these countries are considered best for cardiac surgery, others for orthopedic surgery and yet others for cosmetic surgery. You should base your selection on: quality, distance and cost.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PROVIDER
When choosing a provider, don't get swayed by attractive packages and fancy websites. Read and watch what others are saying about the particular hospital, clinic or surgeon. Check out the facility pictures and videos. Consider the provider’s accreditation, awards and recognitions, facility and equipments, statistics like success rates, etc.

WILL MY HEALTH INSURANCE PAY FOR IT?
Insurance companies are keenly looking into medical tourism as an option though most haven't adopted it into their plans yet. So check with your health insurer for details.

SHOULD I COMBINE “SUN, SAND, AND SEA” WITH SURGERY?

That depends.
Usually after a cosmetic surgery, you are advised not to expose your body to the sun or to sea water. But, you can always choose to enjoy them before your surgery. With certain other medical procedures, it's best for you to stay indoors and relax after your surgery. In any case, you should always consult your surgeon if you have travel or tourism on your mind.

WHAT ARE MEDICAL TOURISM FACILITATORS?
Medical tourism facilitators like Healthbase (http://www.healthbase.com) are specialized facilitators that connect you with the hospital of your choice while providing all or some other valuable services like detailed information about various procedures, detailed hospital profiles and surgeon profiles, medical records transfer, free surgery quote, pre- and post-consultation with the overseas hospital, feedback and testimonials from previous patients, medical and dental loan financing, passport and visa, airport pick-up and drop-off, hospital escort, tickets, travel insurance, hotel booking, tourism services in the destination country, etc.

This medical tourism guide is just a starting step. You should do the proper required research before you fly to your medical tourism destination.

You can learn more about the growing trend of medical tourism, international healthcare facilities and surgeons and the details of the medical tourism process by logging on to

http://www.healthbase.com.

Healthbase.com is a medical tourism facilitator committed to providing low-cost high quality medical travel services to the global medical consumer.

Technorati : Medical Tourism,Tourism

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Medical Tourism Author by : Patrick W. Marsek
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Indian Hospitals, Wellness and Medical Tourism players join forces to make India the Global Healthcare Destination - Indian Medical Travel Associatio

2009-10-09T09:26:00.000-07:00

Technorati : India Tourism,Medical Tourism,Tourism

State of the Heart: A Medical Tourist's True Story of Lifesaving Surgery in India Author by : Maggi Ann Grace
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Global Medical Book Announcing their Definition of Medical Tourism

2009-10-08T09:25:00.000-07:00

In today’s world, medical insurance and costs are very high priced for just about any type of medical procedure, check up, or doctors visit. Medical expenses are very high in the United States, on the flip side, the UK and Canada have universal medical coverage but all too frequently people and patients are exposed to substandard medical conditions in order to save a buck. So the next question would be where can I get some of the best medical care for a reasonable (astronomically lower) price?

Let’s think for a minute...

Some of the worlds' and the United States best doctors are from India, China, and the Middle East, so why not take a beautiful vacation while receiving some of the best medical care for any ailment. These medical vacations can also be called medical tourism. Medical tourism is becoming very popular worldwide and many people are truly benefiting from the high quality medical care, low cost medical expenses, and all doing so while on a very beautiful and tranquil vacation.

As with anything worthwhile, medical tourism is becoming a high demand industry worldwide and competition is pretty interesting. What I mean by this is there are now medical tourism travel agencies, all inclusive medical travel packages and plans, medical vacations. These packages can offer everything from airfare to hotels, food to limousine service, all medical travel packages offering many lavish upgrades.

Technorati : Medical Tourism,Tourism

Beauty from Afar: A Medical Tourist's Guide to Affordable and Quality Cosmetic Care Outside the U.S. Author by : Jeff Schult
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Aspen Nightlife – Winterskol

2009-10-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

Since Aspen is a wintertime playground for so many people, it is only fitting that everyone in Aspen during the month of January participates in Winterskol. This is literally a celebration of winter, cold, and snow – which is a great deal of what makes Aspen, well, Aspen! Winterskol is the ultimate Aspen party.

Winterskol is held during the month of January each year, and it is the wildest winter celebration you will ever experience. The highlight of Winterskol is the Canine Fashion Show, where pets are dressed up in crazy clothing, such as miniature bridal gowns. Winterskol has been an Aspen tradition for more than fifty years – and it will continue for at least another fifty! The first Winterskol celebration was held in 1951.

During Winterskol, more than 40 events are scheduled in the downtown area, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk Mountain, and Snowmass Mountain. The entire area gets involved in the activities. Winterskol is a celebration of Aspen’s Nordic ancestry, as well as a celebration of winter. While most events are scheduled in advance,Winterskol also brings several surprises as well. You just never know what you will find at the Winterskol celebration – until you are there.

Favorite traditional activities include the Canine Fashion Show, Winter sculpt, the Buttermilk Uphill Race, and Snowmass Splash. Don’t miss the torchlight descent and the fireworks display over Aspen Mountain. Don’t miss the unique competitions happening all over town. There is constant live entertainment all around town as well. If you are planning a ski vacation, and you want to have the time of your life –
your destination should be Aspen, and your arrival date should coincide with the start of Winterskol.

Winterskol is an ongoing week long party with something for everyone. Amusement, entertainment, parties, and celebration are top priorities during the week of Winterskol. You have to experience Winterskol at least once in your lifetime – and after you have been once, you will be back. Winterskol is a celebration that is comparable with Mardi Gras in New Orleans – but a lot safer, and in many opinions, more enjoyable.

As they do for Mardi Gras, people come from all over the world for Winterskol. Event packages are available, but all of the lodges, hotels, motels, condos, cabins, and campgrounds sell out early. Make sure that you book lodging for Winterskol well in advance, and take advantage of the packages that the
various lodges offer. Packages typically include lodging, airfare, rental cars, and other things that you may require as well.

Aspen Nightlife – The Sneaker Ball

2009-10-05T08:02:00.000-07:00

You may have been to many balls in your lifetime, such as Christmas Balls, Spring Balls,and even Debutante Balls – but if you haven’t been to the Sneaker Ball in Aspen, Colorado, you are missing out on all the fun! Known as ‘Aspen’s Greatest Party,’ the Sneaker Ball is held annually at the St. Regis Hotel on East Dean Street every March.

Back in 1986, the very first Sneaker Ball was held by Al Gross and David Nauss of Paine Weber, Inc – in Boston. The party was a celebration of Reebok shares trading on the stock market for the very first time. This black tie event was much like other balls – but everyone was wearing Reeboks, and the first
Sneaker Ball was born.

The following year, Al Gross decided that this was the kind of party that people really liked – but instead of being limited to white Reeboks, the idea would be for the guests to wear formal gowns and tuxedos, with decorated tennis shoes. The party was moved to Aspen, where people know how to party – and thousands of people from all over the world fly into Aspen to attend.

One of the nicest things guests like about the Sneaker Ball is that it is for a good cause. All of the proceeds go to Grass Roots, which is a program designed to help inner-city kids. These kids are brought to Aspen to experience what life outside the city is. Many of these kids don’t even realize that places like Aspen really exist. Tickets cost $125 per person, which isn’t too bad considering that the money is for a good cause.

People from diverse backgrounds attend the Sneaker Ball each year. Famous people are there, infamous people, and people who are neither famous nor infamous attend – and every one has a fantastic time. The party gets started at about 9:30pm and ends around 1:30am – followed by many ‘after parties’ in various locations throughout Aspen.

If you’ve ever wanted to attend one of those glitzy ‘Hollywood type’ parties, here is your chance! You will rub elbows with the famous, show off your custom designed sneakers along with your formal wear, and dance the night away – and all for a very good cause.

This is an event that sells out fast. Contact the Chamber of Commerce in Aspen to find out when the Sneaker Ball is scheduled, and purchase your tickets right away. Also check with the various hotels and lodges to inquire about package deals and get your reservations set before everything is sold out!

Aspen Nightlife – The Caribou Club

2009-10-04T07:50:00.000-07:00

According to The New York Post, the Caribou Club is the absolute best private club in America. This is a member’s only private club, and the membership fee is quite high – but the ambiance is top-notch! The Caribou Club is located in Aspen, Colorado on East Hopkins Avenue.

The club is open from 6:30pm until 2am every day, and you can enjoy dinner and dancing, or lounge in the Great Room before a roaring fireplace with a fine cigar. The wine cellar houses over 5000 wines from around the world.

There is more to The Caribou Club than fine dining and dancing, however. When you enter the club, you are entering a world of elegance that can only be experienced here. The walls are covered with 19th century paintings. There is a coat room, where your coat will be taken from you, and you are made to feel like a very welcome houseguest. You can then go to the bar, the Great Room, or be seated for dinner – the choice is yours.

The Caribou Club has only been open for about ten years, but it has become an integral part of Aspen nightlife for the rich and famous – and even for those who are not famous, nor rich, but who can afford to pay the membership fees. When you enter the Great Room at The Caribo u Club, you will probably see faces that you know – even if you don’t know these famous people on a personal level.

You don’t even have to be in Aspen to enjoy the cuisine offered by The Caribou Club. Your event can be catered by the club, no matter how large or small it is, or where it is located. You can have your event catered anywhere in the world! Private parties can also be held at The Caribou Club.

Again, the cost is fairly high. Lifetime membership for a couple is $10,000. Individual membership for two people is $3000 for the first year, and $1000 for each additional year, paid annually.

Family membership for up to five people costs $4000 per year. A temporary membership is available for one week. The cost is $500 and covers one couple. However, during Holidays and President’s Weekend, the cost is $1000.

As you can see, The Caribou Club is quite exclusive – but depending on the type of nightlife you enjoy, the cost of membership is well worth it – even if you only visit once a year.

Aspen Nightlife – Taste Festival

2009-10-02T07:49:00.000-07:00

Winter time isn’t the only time to visit Aspen. There is a great deal going on each summer, and one of the highlights each June is the Taste Festival. This is also called the Food & Wine Magazine Classic, and people from all over the world arrive in droves for this three day event.

Cookbook authors, wine experts, restaurateurs, and famous chefs can all be found here. Wolfgang Puck, Jacques Pepin, and Andrea Immer have all attended the Taste Fest in Aspen – because if food is your life, this is the place to be! Each year, there are over eighty cooking and food demonstrations, and visitors can get a taste of it all.

There are many seminars and wine tasting sessions held throughout Aspen during these three days as well. If you want to attend this incredible mouth watering event, make your reservations months in advance – or you will miss out! If you don’t make your reservations early, try to find a hotel with space available in a nearby town, and drive back and forth to the event – check the local camp grounds as well. Just make sure you don’t miss this event!

Aspen Nightlife – Music in the Mountains

2009-10-01T07:38:00.000-07:00

There is always something of interest going on in Aspen, and September is no different. During the month of September, every year, JAS comes to Snowmass. JAS, or Jazz Aspen Snowmass, began in 1991 to honor the art of Jazz in the Roaring Fork Valley. It has now become a music attraction that lasts all summer long, with the biggest celebration coinciding with Labor Day weekend.

While this is a Jazz celebration, for all intents and purposes, all types of music are celebrated, including reggae and rock-n-roll. Famous musicians and singers from around the world attend the four day Music in the Mountains celebration.

All events take place in the breathtaking Snowmass Town Park, located on Brush Creek Road in Snowmass. Snowmass Village is one of the most beautiful places in the United States, and this festival is extremely popular. It is vital that you purchase your tickets well in advance, and arrange lodging well in
advance also. Snowmass advises that if you do not have a ticket, to not show up for the festival – it will be sold out.

India Tours & Tourism – Experience of Lifetime

2009-09-29T09:20:00.000-07:00

India is a globally famous tourism destination deserving attentions of tourists from all over the world. It is known for its unique cultural and geographical features. There is something for every tourist in the country. There are lots of tourism options to enjoy in the country. There are various options to do and see in the country. Heritage tourism, Cultural tours, Wildlife expedition, Adventure tours, Honeymoon tours, Monument tourism, Pilgrimage tours, Nature & green tourism, Eco tourism, Monsoon tourism, Medical tourism, Cultural heritage tours, Goa beach tours, Kerala backwater tours, hill station tourism, etc are prime elements of India tours and tourism.

The states like Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, etc are very rich in aspect of tours and tourism in the country. Cities like New Delhi, Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Bikaner, Pushkar, Manali, Sri Nagar, Rajgir, Leh, Agra, Varanasi, Khajuraho, Kolkata, Darjeeling, Amritsar, Lucknow, Mumbai, Aurangabad, Bangalore, Ooty, Panji, Hyderabad, Mysore, Munnar, Trivandrum, Cochin, etc are prime tourism destinations in the country. These destinations are very popular among tourists and vacationers from all over the world. There is wide range of options to do and see in these famous tourist destinations of the country.

Unique geographical feature of the country never fail to deserve the attentions of tourists and vacationers. The diverse and unique geographical feature of the country can be explored in its several beautiful hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries, mountain ranges, dense forests, enchanting rivers, breathtaking backwaters, lush green & gorgeous valleys, beautiful meadows, breathtaking beaches, vast Thar Desert, etc. Shimla, Manali, Kashmir, Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgaun, Leh, Dharamshala, Kasauli, Darjeeling, Ranikhet, Mussoorie, Nanital, Dehradun, Ooty, Kodaikanal, Khandala, Lonavala, Mount Abu, Munnar, Wayanad, etc are famous hill stations of India. These hill stations are blessed with exceptionally nature beauty and very ideal for family vacation and honeymoon vacation. For honeymooners these destinations are like paradise and provide truly sheer romantic and agreeable ambiance for perfect honeymoon experience.

Beaches are breathtakingly beautiful and nature blessed. Both, Kerala and Goa, are very popular among honeymooners. If couples think Honeymoon Tours India, then they should plan their vacation in Goa and Kerala. Definitely they will have delightful experience of lifetime. Goa honeymoon vacations also give couples opportunity to explore several magnificent monuments like churches, temples, forts, palaces, colonial homes, etc.

Despite geographical features India tourism is very popular for cultural heritage tourism. Tourists and travellers can witness the rich heritage of Indian culture at Ajanta, Ellora, Elephanta, Khajuraho, Konark, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Bikaner, Mandawa, Delhi, Agra, etc.

There are several tours & travel packages which make enable tourists to explore the famous tourism destinations of the country conveniently. But people should choose a right package according to their desire and preferences. Tourists should choose their package carefully and do not go with only attractive advertisement. Before book a tour package tourists should do some research to find out best tourism package of India. And yes tourists should not forget their desire and preferences before choosing any India tours package.

About The Author

Mahi Manral is an eminent analyst and writer in India Travel & Tourism related topics. She has authored many books on tour guide for Honeymoon Tours India and Goa honeymoon vacations .Now he is rendering his services http://www.indianluxurytours.net.

Aspen Nightlife – The Wheeler Opera House

2009-09-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Wheeler Opera House has been an integral part of Aspen nightlife, history, and culture since 1889 when Mr. J.B Wheeler and the Conried Company presented The King’s Fool. While the building started out as an Opera House, it was only used for town meetings and such by 1893, when the silver mines had played out.

The Wheeler Opera House remained open until 1912 when it was gutted by not one, but two fires in one week! The Opera House did not open again until June of 1946 when it was leased by the Aspen Company. The total restoration went on until 1960. Between the years of 1912 and 1946 the Wheeler Opera
House remained empty, and it was used as a playground by the local children.

During the 1960’s and 1970’s, The Wheeler Opera House was mainly used as a movie theater. However, in 1979, the city decided to restore the Opera House to its original grandeur, and this restoration was completed in 1984. The cost was 4.5 million dollars.

Today, the Wheeler Opera House is on the National Registrar of Historical Places. Many events, such as lectures, concerts, plays, films, and musicals are held at The Wheeler Opera House today. You can see Broadway shows, jazz concerts, country and rock concerts, and even children’s theater here. Any type of cultural event you can imagine is held here – and shows are scheduled throughout the year. Locals consider the Wheeler Opera House the ‘crown jewel of Aspen.

’ Nationwide, it is considered a world class theater – and with the detailed woodwork it is certainly a sight to behold! The Opera House is still in its original location on Hyman Avenue, in the heart of downtown
Aspen. You can call to find out what events are planned, and to purchase tickets. Remember that this is a popular place, and shows do sell out quickly – so purchase your tickets as early as possible. You should also be aware that children under the age of three years old are not permitted for live performances, unless the performance is for children specifically.

Cameras and recording devices are not permitted for performances. The Wheeler Opera House can also be rented for a variety of special occasions and events, such as parties, receptions, weddings, conferences, and seminars. Events such as these are usually held on the second floor, where guests will enjoy a breathtaking view of Aspen Mountain, as well as the city.

India Tours & Tourism – Experience of Lifetime

2009-09-25T09:19:00.000-07:00

There are several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in the county. Wildlife expedition can be one of the best options to enjoy while on India tours and travels. Ranthambhore National Park, Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary, Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary & National Park, Gir National Park, Corbett National Park, Pench National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Kanha National Park, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Hazaribagh National Park, etc are worth visiting attractions of wildlife expeditions in the country. There are several beautiful beaches in the country. Goa and Kerala are very popular beach destinations in the country. Beaches are breathtakingly beautiful and nature blessed. Both, Kerala and Goa, are very popular among honeymooners. If couples think Honeymoon Tours India, then they should plan their vacation in Goa and Kerala. Definitely they will have delightful experience of lifetime. Goa honeymoon vacations also give couples opportunity to explore several magnificent monuments like churches, temples, forts, palaces, colonial homes, etc.

Varanasi, Khajuraho, Konark, Puri, Rajgir, Bodh Gaya, Ajmer, Amritsar Pushkar, Jammu, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Tirupati, Deoghar, Badrinath, etc are religious sites in the country. Exploring these destinations gives travellers rich cultural and spiritual experience. In fact, India is a unique tourism destination in the world and never fails to lure travellers and vacationers from all over the world.
There are several tours & travel packages which make enable tourists to explore the famous tourism destinations of the country conveniently. But people should choose a right package according to their desire and preferences. Tourists should choose their package carefully and do not go with only attractive advertisement. Before book a tour package tourists should do some research to find out best tourism package of India. And yes tourists should not forget their desire and preferences before choosing any India tours package.

About The Author

Mahi is an eminent analyst and writer in India Travel & Tourism related topics. She has authored many books on tour guide for Honeymoon Tours India and Goa honeymoon vacations .Now he is rendering his services http://www.indianluxurytours.net.

India –Your Global Home for Medical Tourism

2009-09-24T09:18:00.000-07:00

Standardization has become vital in the medical world. Professional organizations, non-governmental agencies, and other international institutions work to make sure that medical training, practices and medical equipments are standardized around the world. Medications from prescription drugs to anesthesia are globally available.

Medical tourism is taking advantage of this standardization. Doctors from the developing countries - many of whom have been trained in the US, Canada or UK or a member of any international medical association assure their patients that they will get the same quality treatment as they would get at home, if not better.
India is the most sought after medical tourism destination in the world and much of the credit goes to the Indian doctors on account of their global knowledge on hospital management. India offers characteristically high level of medical tourism, which means that patients coming from abroad enjoy medical care and experiences that are higher than or comparable to standards in their home countries. Another attraction, which drives patients to India, is low-cost treatment. It is estimated that treatment costs in India start at around a tenth of the price of analogous procedures in the United States or UK. Most of the Indian doctors are well educated or practiced in the West; so they are expert in their fields. In many of the developed countries people have to wait for a long period to undergo any sort of surgery. Hence, these countries have developed links with India for fast and low cost treatment for their nationals. The Indian Government has also committed some incentives like fast-track visa for foreign patients.

For patients who are reluctant to travel abroad for treatment, getting a package deal online with various medical tourism service providers would not be a bad idea. This allows you to calculate how much you can save if you get your treatment done in India. No costs are incurred for getting a quote or medical advise over email.

India is developing herself into a competitive market in medical tourism and many experts credit this expansion to its global scope. Indian medical facilities are designed to meet the expectations of world-class tourism. No wonder, medical tourism in India is basking in glorious sunshine today!

About The Author

Sam D'Costa is well known professional in Online Marketing and web promotions.
http://www.recoverdiscover.com/

Family Reunions at Disneyland

2009-09-23T03:24:00.000-07:00

Everyone looks forward to family reunions – and who doesn’t love Disneyland? You can bring the two together by having your family reunion at the happiest place on earth. It is really easier than you might think to arrange this!

Start by calling the Disneyland Vacation Planning Services Department. Let them help you book rooms at the Resort hotels, and admission tickets to the park. You should be able to get discounts on the tickets by purchasing them in bulk.

The specific service that you need to accommodate all of your family members is the ‘Happiest Place on Earth Picnic.’ This service is offered year round, and includes admission to the park for your entire party. You also get a choice of fully catered meals for the event. For 100 – 300 people, your event can be held at Big Thunder Ranch. For 300 – 1000 people, the event will be held at the Festival Arena.

If there are less than 100 people in your party, you may not be eligible for the catering services. This is at the sole discretion of Disneyland, and you will need to discuss this with Guest Services or the Planning Services Departments. If catering is not available, reservations in the many restaurants can be made instead.

You may be able to get a discount on your family member’s rooms at the Resorts as well, if you book well in advance, hold your event during the off-season, and book a block of rooms. Airline tickets for those who will need to fly to Disneyland should also be purchased well in advance, and in bulk for additional discounts.

Again, allow Disneyland Vacation Planning Services to help you with the arrangements, and use a travel agent to handle any arrangements that planning services doesn’t cover. For best results, choose one family member to work with the planning services and the travel agent, and relay information back and forth between the services and the family members. Having one person collecting and sharing information will cut down on a great deal of confusion and misinformation when you are trying to make travel arrangements for a large number of people.

It may take work and planning, but in the end, this will be one family reunion that will never be forgotten. Talk with the Vacation Planning Services Department to find out what other services are available to make this an even more special experience for you and your family members. The Surprise services would be a nice touch!

Get More Out of Your Disneyland Vacation With

2009-09-22T03:23:00.000-07:00

You don’t want to spend your entire Disneyland Vacation standing in long lines. This can be avoided by using Disneyland FastPass. FastPass can be obtained from machines located near the rides that accept FastPass. This doesn’t mean that you get to immediately move to the front of the line. It is more like scheduling an appointment for the ride later in the day – at which time you actually will move to the front of the line. In the meantime, you are free to go enjoy other sites and rides around the park.

When you obtain a FastPass ticket, you will be given a one hour time in which to enjoy the ride. For instance, your FastPass ticket may say 11am to 12pm. This means that you can show up and move to the front of the line between the hours of 11am and 12pm. You must have your Disneyland ticket in order to obtain a FastPass ticket.

At Disneyland, FastPasses are available for Indiana Jones, Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Roger Rabbits Cartoon Spin, Autopia, Space Mountain, and Buzz Lightyear.

Disneyland Weddings

2009-09-21T03:22:00.000-07:00

Your wedding day is the happiest day of your life. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have the happiest day of your life at the happiest place on earth? Of course it would – and Disneyland has made that possible with Disneyland Weddings.

Women start dreaming of their weddings from the time that they are little girl’s. Now, you can really have a fairy tale wedding that is truly unique, romantic, and enchanting – and you can have your very own ‘happily ever after’ wedding day at Disneyland. Disneyland weddings include a magical ceremony and a creative reception that you can’t find any place else on earth.

You won’t have to stress over the details. Like Cinderella, you can have your very own God Mother to take care of the details – although in this case, it will actually be a fairy God Planner.

Disneyland weddings are not last minute events. The planning stage starts one year before the date of the wedding with a meeting with the Disney wedding planner, a site tour, and a selection of the possible locations for the wedding. Eleven months before the big day, the letter of agreement must be signed and returned with a deposit. At ten months, announcements are mailed out to the guests who are to be invited.

Eight months before the big day, the planning steps up. Planning sessions are held by phone or in person with the wedding planner, and ceremony and reception event orders are prepared. Everything starts falling into place, and the planning continues until one month before the big day. Final payments are due thirty days before the wedding date, and the final guest count is due four days before the wedding is to take place.

Everything is planned with your input, and all of the details are handled without any stress being placed on the happy couple. Flowers, invitations, and catering are all included. After a ceremony that will l ive in your memory forever, you and your new spouse will enjoy the reception of your dreams.

The reception will be handled by a white gloved staff, complete with elegant resort table settings, a head table, floor length linens, and place cards. Your wedding cake will be like nothing you could imagine in your wildest dreams, selected by you from a variety of choices.

There are also honeymoon packages available at all of the Disneyland Resorts. From start to finish, your Disneyland wedding will have all of your dreams coming true, so you and your spouse can start your road to happily ever after.

Entertainment at Disneyland

2009-09-20T03:21:00.000-07:00

There is always something to see or do at Disneyland, but Disneyland adds to this with nightly entertainment during the peak season, and weekend entertainment during the off-season. There is also special entertainment during special occasions, such as the Fourth of July and Christmas.

Fantasmic is held twice each night during the peak season, and on weekends during the off-season. The show takes place on Tom Sawyer’s Island, and features many characters, music, and fireworks. For the best seating possible, purchase tickets for Fantasmic in advance, but note that free seating is also available, and is included in your Disneyland park admission price.

The Parade of Dreams features large colorful floats accompanied by many Characters. This parade takes place twice each day. During the parade, the entire parade will stop three times to do a choreographed show, and most of the Disney Characters are portrayed in the Parade of Dreams.

In the Fantasyland Theater, you can see a musical of Snow White. This show is held several times throughout the day. This show should not be missed – especially if you love Snow White. Since the show is held several times each day, reservations are not necessary.

These are just a few of the shows that are available at Disneyland. Again, entertainment is an ongoing thing at the park, with each day bringing something new. One thing that you can definitely count on, of course, is the fireworks! The fireworks show is held late each night – before the park closes for the day.

Even if you can’t stay for the fireworks, you can probably see them out of your hotel window! Try to get a view of the Fireworks from in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle for the greatest effect. The fireworks on the Fourth of July are out of this world.

To find out if there are any special shows or events during the time that you will be at Disneyland, visit the website, call the park, or ask your travel agent to find this information out for you. You may also want to inquire about special events during specific months, so that you can plan your stay at Disneyland for those days.

Most entertainment is provided free of charge, and is part of your admission price. However, special seating, or priority seating usually requires a fee, as well as a reservation. Some events require an admission price that is separate from your park admission. Again, check the website, call the park, or discuss events and fees with your travel agent when planning your Disneyland vacation.

Disneyland Vacations for Toddlers

2009-09-19T03:21:00.000-07:00

Disneyland was designed for kids of all ages – and toddlers are no exception! There are many things that you can enjoy with your toddler – so many things in fact, that unless you will be staying for several days, you won’t have time to do them all.

Start with Toon Town. Here is where you will find your toddler’s favorite Disney Characters, including Mickey and Minnie Mouse. All of the Characters have homes in Toon Town, full of things that will amaze your toddler, and make them laugh.

Your toddler will definitely enjoy the Disneyland Railroad. This is a great way to get around the park, because there are stations in New Orleans Square, Toon Town, Tomorrowland, and on Main Street. This will amuse your toddler, and give you a chance to see some sights and rest a bit.

Its A Small World is very appropriate for toddlers. Music and colors will keep your child mesmerized while you enjoy a relaxing ride across the water. The Storybook Land Canal Boats is another good choice, as it will take you through the miniature villages that your child will be quite familiar with from their story books.

Rides that you and your toddler must not miss include all of the rides in Fantasyland, King Arthur’s Carousel, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, the Circus Train, and the Mad Tea Party. Rides that are appropriate for youngsters, but that may cause a little fear are the rides that are dark. These include Peter Pan’s Flight, Pinocchio’s Daring Journey, Alice in Wonderland, and Snow White’s Scary Adventure. Buzz Lightyear is a popular ride for all toddlers.

There are other areas of the park that have attractions and rides that are appropriate for toddlers. Remember that Disneyland is a place for kids of all ages. Pay attention to the height and age requirements for each attraction, and avoid taking your toddler to rides that they will not be able to enjoy. This will only cause your child disappointment.

Stick to the areas where the toddler appropriate attractions are located as much as possible. As an adult, you realize that some rides are simply not safe for small people – but your small person will not comprehend this! Your Disneyland vacation should be enjoyable for everyone, and Disneyland has made sure that there is something for everyone at the park. It is up to you to keep your child happy, and to keep them interested in the rides and attractions that they are meant to enjoy.

Disneyland Ticket Security

2009-09-18T03:20:00.000-07:00

You must have your Disneyland ticket in order to enter the park. You must also have the ticket to get FastPass tickets. Because this ticket is so important, it needs to be kept in a safe place. Along with the Disneyland ticket, you also need a safe place to keep money or the Disneyland Merchandise Card.

A wallet or purse is not very practical at Disneyland. Instead, you should purchase a FastPass holder – even if you don’t get any FastPasses. This is a small plastic pouch that hangs from a cord, which is worn around the neck. These can be purchased at Disneyland, and they are very inexpensive.

If you think you might not want to spend a little bit of money on the FastPass holder, you should consider what a new Disneyland ticket will cost. If you lose your Disneyland ticket, you will not be allowed to enter the park the next day without purchasing a new ticket. When you look at the small cost of the Disneyland FastPass holder, you will see that it is well worth it.

Disneyland Purchases – Package Express

2009-09-17T03:19:00.000-07:00

One of the nice guest service features at Disneyland is the Package Express service. This will allow you to make purchases, and not have to carry them around with you all day! Can you imagine trying to hold all of your packages, your kids, and ride the rides?

Instead, have your purchases sent to the Newsstand, which is located near the exit. This Package Express purchase allows you to pick your packages up as you are leaving the park. If you stay till closing, note that the pickup line will be very long. You should plan to leave at least an hour earlier than you had originally planned if you have packages to pick up.

You can also have your purchases sent directly to your hotel if you are staying at one of the Resort Hotels. This offers even more convenience, because you won’t have to leave the park earlier, or stand in the package pickup line. Another option is to rent a locker, and put all of your purchases in it until you are ready to leave. However, this means that you will have to walk back to the locker after each of your Disneyland purchases.

Disneyland Surprises For Yourself and Loved Ones

2009-09-16T03:18:00.000-07:00

If you would like to surprise someone who will be traveling with you to Disneyland, you can easily do this by using the Disneyland Vacation Planning Service. This service has many different services that can be performed for you, but one of the best ones is the Surprise service.

Simply contact the Vacation Planning department, and tell them who the surprises will be for, which Resort hotel you will be staying at and what your budget is for the surprises. You will also need to tell them when you would like the surprise deliveries to be made, and what type of gifts you are interested in. They will also want to know who the favorite Disney character is of the person that you want to surprise.

After providing all of this information, your credit card information will be required. You can be sure that the amount charged to your credit card will not exceed your surprise budget that you have set. This is a great way to add more value to your Disney experience, and to constantly experience great anticipation of the next surprise to come!

Disneyland Baby Centers

2009-09-15T03:17:00.000-07:00

Disneyland is a place for everyone, and at Disneyland, they have thought of everything – including the babies. The Disneyland Baby Center is located on Main Street, behind the Plaza Inn. This is not a babysitting service. Instead, it is a place where you can attend to your babies needs.

There are several characters present in this area, and their purpose there is not only to amuse your baby, but also to help you attend to your baby’s needs. This area has rockers, where you can rock and breast feed your baby. No men are allowed in this room, but they are allowed in other rooms within the Baby Center. You can warm a bottle or a jar of food, and clean bottles as necessary. Baby changing tables are available, and the entire center is very clean and comfortable. There are even smaller toilets for children who are being potty trained.

You can also purchase emergency baby supplies at the Baby Center. Diapers cost about a dollar each, and several different types of formula and baby food are kept in supply, although the selections are l imited. This is Disneyland’s way of making sure that the needs of every guest – no matter how small they may be – are attended to.

Disneyland Magic Music Days

2009-09-14T03:14:00.000-07:00

Disneyland has always contributed to the education of young people in one way or another. This tradition is continued with the Disneyland Magic Music Days program, which is an educational program for students of music, vocal arts, or dance.

Your group has the opportunity to showcase your talent and to improve even more in a setting that promotes learning – and you can have fun doing it! The program is available all year, and is open to schools, studios, and other organizations worldwide. Auditions for the program are required.

There are many workshops held to help improve the specific talents of each member of your group. These workshops are taught by professional actors, choreographers, comedians, dancers, composers, singers, arrangers, musicians, and conductors. Where else will your group have access to professionals in these fields – all in one place? To sweeten the pot, many of these professionals are famous in their fields, performing in both Hollywood and New York, among other famous places in the world.

Instrumental groups can audition to perform on one of the Disneyland stages. Marching bands can audition for the famous Disneyland parades. Along with performing in the happiest place on earth, which is an experience you will remember and talk about your entire life, you will also receive the benefits of world-class workshops, conducted by world-class professionals. Vocal groups and dancers audition to perform on one of the Disneyland stages, and are also offered the world-class workshops designed for vocalists and vocalist groups or dancers.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for your group. The performance alone will be unforgettable, but the information that these young performers will learn in the workshops is invaluable. Instrumental groups and marching bands will benefit from the soundtrack/instrumental workshop, the soundtrack jazz workshop, the tune in seminar, and the percussion workshop.

Vocalists are offered the industry show choir workshop, academy show choir workshop, the academy vocal workshop, the industry vocal workshop, and the express yourself workshop. Dancers can take advantage of the industry dance workshop, academy dance workshop, and the express yourself workshop. There is something for all performers as Disneyland Magic Music Days!

Each member of each group will receive an 8 x 10 glossy picture of their entire group, dressed in performance attire, in front of the Sleeping Beauty Castle. Although you won’t need any help remembering your time at Disneyland Magic Music Days, you can share this photo with your friends and loved ones when you return home from the most unforgettable performance you will ever have!

Disney Dollars and Disneyland Merchandise Cards

2009-09-13T03:13:00.000-07:00

When it comes to kids and money, we all know what happens. The money either gets spent the wrong way, or it gets lost. With Disney Dollars and Disneyland Merchandise cards, you may be able to cut down on some of this.

Disney Dollars work just like cash at Disneyland. They can be used anywhere in the park, and at certain hotels. They can even be used at local Disney stores in your area. The Disneyland Merchandise Card works more like a credit card. The amount of money you load on the card is how much is available. All of this fits quite nicely into the FreePass holder, so there will be less chance of losing the dollars or the card.

You can also purchase a Disneyland Resort Gift Card. This card can only be used at the Disney Resorts, as well as stores that accept credit cards at Disneyland. These cards also make great gift items for anyone who loves Disneyland, or for anyone who is planning a trip to Disneyland. This is a great way to budget money for souvenirs as well as snack items while at Disneyland.

Disneyland and Disabilities

2009-09-12T03:12:00.000-07:00

Even if you are confined to a wheelchair or on crutches, you can still enjoy Disneyland. If you are on crutches, you should consider renting a Disneyland Scooter to get around the park. The rental fee is $35 per day, with a $20 deposit. A valid driver’s license is required, and you must be eighteen years old or older.

You can also choose to rent a wheelchair, which is not electronic. The rental fee for a wheelchair is $8 per day, with a $20 deposit. You do not have to rent your wheelchair or Scooter from Disneyland. You can choose to rent the apparatus from a private company, and have the wheelchair or scooter delivered to your hotel room. You may find that it is cheaper to rent from a private company, as opposed to renting from Disneyland.

All of the restaurants and shops are wheelchair accessible, as are the entertainment areas. When it comes to wheelchairs, your problem will be accessing some of the rides. Some rides are not appropriate for people who are in wheelchairs, while others are perfectly suitable. For instance, you will not be able to enjoy Donald’s Boat, Sailing Ship, or Tarzan’s Tree house.

However, there are many attractions that you can enjoy, such as The Disney Gallery, Disneyland Monorail, the Disneyland Railroad, the Tiki Room, The Golden Horseshoe, It’s A Small World, Mark Twain Riverboat, and Tom Sawyer Island. Some attractions will require you to be transferred from your wheelchair, such as Alice in Wonderland, Indiana Jones, and the King Arthur Carrousel.

Cast members and service personnel will be happy to help with Guest wheelchair transfers, and if you should lose a wheelchair or scooter that you’ve rented from Disneyland, simply show the ticket for the wheelchair or scooter, and Disneyland will happily supply you with another one. However, if you lose a wheelchair or scooter that was rented from an outside company, Disneyland will not be able to help you replace it, and you may have to pay the rental company the full value of the chair. This is something to consider when you are trying to decide whether to rent from Disneyland or a private company.

Whether you can enjoy a ride in your wheelchair, or you must be transferred from your wheelchair to the ride, you can actually enjoy most of the rides at Disneyland. Do not allow the fact that you can’t walk around the park keep you from planning a Disneyland Vacation. Again, Disneyland was designed with everyone in mind!

Celebrate Birthdays At Disneyland

2009-09-11T03:09:00.000-07:00

If you want to celebrate your birthday, or the birthday of a child at Disneyland, you can easily do this – and it doesn’t even have to be done on the exact date of birth! Start celebrating by going to City Hall, which is located in Town Square, upon your arrival to Disneyland. Here, you will receive a Birthday Sticker or button. This sticker tells everyone on at Disneyland that you are to receive special treatment.

On your birthday celebration day, make sure that you eat in one of the full service restaurants, and that you order the Birthday Bucket. It will be full of Disney treats, and it includes a cake. This costs around twenty dollars. Eat breakfast at Goofy’s Kitchen and you can get a Birthday Bag for five dollars.

There are many ways to enjoy your birthday at Disneyland. You will receive special treatment from all of the Disney Characters in the park. This can be a memorable birthday celebration for you or your child – so make sure you take lots of pictures, and don’t be shy about telling people who work at the park that it is your birthday – if they don’t notice your sticker!

Christmas at Disneyland

2009-09-10T03:08:00.000-07:00

Christmas is one of the happiest times of the year for a child. Spending the happiest time of the year, at the happiest place on earth, could be a dream that comes true for many children and adults. Christmas at Disneyland is an experience that will never be forgotten, and can never be matched.

Disneyland works to make Christmas very special. Santa’s Reindeer Roundup is especially fun, allowing children to decorate Christmas cookies with Mrs. Clause, play Reindeer Games, and make holiday souvenirs. Between seeing all of the characters dressed up in their holiday costumes and enjoying the ‘snow’ after the Fireworks, Christmas at Disneyland cannot be topped!

Make sure that you visit the Christmas Shoppe and buy a special holiday ornament. Also, take part in all of the special holiday rides. Visiting Disneyland at Christmas time is unlike any other Disneyland vacation you will ever take. Make sure you get a picture of the Christmas tree!

Even though Christmas is considered to be ‘off-season’ you should be prepared for crowds. Christmas is a very popular time to visit Disneyland. Make reservations well in advance.

Where Are The Disneyland Characters?

2009-09-09T03:07:00.000-07:00

A Disneyland vacation would not be complete without the Characters that we all know and love so well. Often, however, people leave Disneyland disappointed – simply because they never found their favorite character. The key to finding the characters you love is in knowing where to look for them in the first place.

Start with the Character Breakfast. Here, you will probably see Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Snow White, Mary Poppins, Jasmine, Ariel, Minnie and Mickey Mouse, and many others. If you miss your favorites at the breakfast, don’t despair – simply go find them! Many characters will be on hand, right inside the gates, to greet you as you arrive in the morning as well.

Start in Toon Town, where all of the Disney Characters live. Visit their homes to see if you can get a glimpse of them. Go early, while they may still be at home! Be sure to visit Goofy’s Kitchen as well, since many characters pop in and out throughout the day. If you’ve been through Toon Town, and you still haven’t seen your favorite character, your next stop should be Fantasyland. Different characters can be located telling stories throughout Fantasyland.

When Is The Best Time To Be At Disneyland?

2009-09-08T03:06:00.000-07:00

When you are planning your Disneyland vacation, you should note that some days are better than, others at the park. The days that you choose to be there will depend greatly on whether you are more interested in attractions or entertainment – or both.

For instance, Tuesday’s, Wednesday’s, and Thursday’s are the days when you will have shorter l ines for the attractions, because there will be fewer people there. On the other hand, the entertainment on those nights cannot compare to the entertainment that is offered on the weekends. If entertainment is important, plan your visit to Disneyland for the weekend.

If you will be at Disneyland for several days, however, plan to ride the attractions on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and then enjoy the entertainment, as well as the other things the park has to offer on the other days. If you are visiting during the off-season, you should note that entertainment usually isn’t offered on weekdays. Also remember that the park really fills up as the day wears on, so try to ride the attractions in the morning if possible!

Tips for Planning a Disneyland Vacation

2009-09-07T03:05:00.000-07:00

For many people, planning a Disneyland Vacation is part of the fun of the vacation itself! For others, however, it can be a headache. Before you start planning your vacation, determine whether or not you are really up to planning the trip yourself or not.

If you don’t want to plan your own trip, you have several options. Of course, you can have a travel agent make all of the arrangements for you, but for the best Disneyland experience, you might be better off using the Disney Vacation Planning Services. Either way, you can have every single aspect of your trip planned for you. Once you get there, all you will need to do is follow your Itinerary.

If you prefer the fun involved in planning your Disneyland vacation yourself, there are some things that you absolutely must not leave out of the planning stage. Before you can decide what you will be doing at Disneyland, you must determine which dates you will be there. The parks offer different things at different types of the year, with many different themes and entertainment to choose from.

Once you know when you will be at Disneyland, the next step is to figure out what you will be doing each day that you are there. Once you’ve set up your travel arrangements and your hotel reservations, there are a few more things you must consider.

Food is one thing you might want to arrange in advance. Disneyland is a very popular place, and having reservations at some of the more popular restaurants is recommended. These reservations can be made well in advance – before you ever leave home.

When planning which attractions at Disneyland you want to visit, use a map of Disneyland as a guide. This will make it easier to schedule time for attractions that are near each other. You want to see and do as much as possible, so as much walking or travel time as you can.

Keep your budget in mind. Often, by making arrangements through travel agents or through the Disneyland Vacation Planning Services, you will be able to get better deals – which can save you money. Look for these deals, and save as much money as you can on your hotel and food. If you have small children with you, keep their priorities in mind – they have less interest in where they will sleep and the food that they will eat, and more interest in what they will see and do!

Travelers' Tales India: True Stories (Travelers' Tales Guides)

2009-09-06T07:42:00.000-07:00

We are interested in the Lastest model of Travelers' Tales India: True Stories (Travelers' Tales Guides) from amazon website you can see now

Customer Shopping BuZZ

launching point for learning about India or planning a trip to India
I'm giving this book five stars not because the individual travel stories comprising this are five star stories (though many of them are), but because the breadth of subject matter and perspectives this book offers are remarkable. From the frosty passes of the Himalayas to the bustling streets of Calcutta, from the Ganges to shores of Goa, from the rarely-visited tribal interior to the even more desolate Rann of Kutch, this book portrays a country with a topography perhaps as diverse as Europe's. From the barriers of caste to the oppression of women, this book portrays a social evolution still in progress but with roots in ancient times.

Highlights for me included Rory Nugent's eccentric search for the supposedly extinct pink-headed duck, and David Yeadon's brilliant portrayal of character interactions (including an Indian interrupting his narrative digression in real time "Sir, are you hearing me, sir?"). For every traveler that timidly scratched the surface of India without real discovery (such as a particularly uptight and sheltered Oxford Fellow's first trip) there was one so recklessly bold that you're glad you could relive the experience from the safety of your own home (including one author's visit to a tribal island where past visitors had been killed). Somewhere in the middle there's bound to be powerful inspiration for a trip of one's own.

Reading this book was not only satisfying, but served as a launching point for future reading of the complete works from which these tales were excerpted (David Yeadon's Back of the Beyond and Jonah Blank's Arrow of the Blue Skinned God seemed particularly interesting to me).

Vicariously experience the best and worst of India
I read this book after reading the DK guide to India and Leila Hadley?s A Journey with Elsa Cloud (the latter is about a tour of parts of India in the 70s). This excellent collection of true stories really made all the places come alive and gave me a much richer and fuller sense of India than I could get from just Hadley?s book. The poverty, sexism, and daily encounters with excrement that are a part of life in India are compellingly conveyed at the same time as we come to feel the vast heavy weight of so many centuries of history, so much spiritual questing, so much diminished glory. Since I finished the book, I have found myself repeating stories to friends from the excerpts from Rory Nugent?s The Search for the Pink-Headed Duck and from Mark Shand?s Travels on My Elephant, which were particularly vivid and fascinating to me. There are a suprising number of tales featuring cyclists--evidently India is a popular place to tour by bike.

Excellent Range of Perspectives
I agree with the above reviews. There is such a variety of subject matter and types of writing collected in this book and I found myself saving so many pages with great information about places in India that I had not yet heard about but wanted to make sure I visited now when I plan my own trip!

Product Description

This popular book in the Travelers' Tales Destination Series weaves a tapestry of sensory images, profound transformations, and compelling history about a land that has lured and puzzled travelers for centuries and continues to do so today. Now in a new edition, Travelers' Tales India includes 49 stories and dozens of sidebar anecdotes covering the sprawling canvas of the country, from the high Himalayas to the dense jungles teeming with wildlife, to the chaotic inner cities and deceptively slow-paced villages. Among the stories: Jan Haag participates in a traditional Indian wedding, noted chef Madhur Jaffrey feasts on food for body and soul, Jonah Blank encounters the caretakers of the dead on the Ganges, William Dalrymple penetrates the mysteries of the Sufi masters, and David Yeadon takes a bath with 15 million people.

List Price: $19.95

Amazon Price: $13.57 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Source From bestsellingbooks2009-20
Have a great day everybody!
Cheers

Start Your Day At Disneyland in Fantasyland

2009-09-06T03:01:00.000-07:00

Any guidebook you read will tell you that you should begin your day at Disneyland enjoying the attractions found in Fantasyland. There are several important reasons as to why this advice is given, and it is advice that you should strongly consider following.

Fantasyland is one of the most popular areas at Disneyland because there are no age or size requirements. The only height restriction is a 35 inch requirement for the Matterhorn. As the day progresses, Fantasyland will fill up. Getting there first thing in the morning will help you avoid the long lines that others will encounter later in the afternoon.

None of the attractions in Fantasyland have FastPass. This is another reason as to why you should go there first. FastPass allows you to more or less ‘set an appointment’ to ride certain rides – but none of the attractions in Fantasyland have this option. Cover Fantasyland first, then go get FastPasses for the other attractions that you want to ride.

The crowds and the lines will start growing within a few hours of Disneyland opening each day. Make sure that you arrive before the park opens so that you can be one of the first ones through the gate – and head straight to Fantasyland before going anywhere else.

Since all of the guidebooks suggest this, many other early risers will also be headed for Fantasyland. Even so, the lines won’t get really long for two or three hours, and by then, you will have already ridden all of the rides there.

From Fantasyland, you should start collecting FastPass tickets for the other attractions that have FastPass throughout the park. It is best to collect these early in the day – the longer you wait, the l onger it will be before your appointed time comes around, depending on how many FastPasses have been issued for each ride.

While you are waiting for the appointed time for your first FastPass, you should enjoy other attractions, visit the shops, or get a snack. Times between FastPass appointments are great for visiting the restrooms or sitting down to rest with a cool beverage.

Just remember that in order to enjoy the most attractions at Disneyland you should start with Fantasyland, followed by gathering FastPass tickets. Enjoy other attractions between FastPass attractions, but make sure that you don’t put yourself on such a tight schedule or such a rigid itinerary that you forget to have fun! Some people simply like to spend some t ime wandering around the park.

The Disneyland Hotel

2009-09-05T03:04:00.000-07:00

For the ultimate Disneyland vacation, you should definitely stay at the Disneyland Resort Hotel. With 990 rooms in three high rise towers, this is the original Disney Hotel, located in Downtown Disney. If you want to truly experience all that Disneyland has to offer, you must stay at the Disneyland Resort Hotel.

The guest rooms in the Disneyland Hotel are astounding. Offering standard rooms and suites, each room has either a king size bed or two queen size beds, room service, phones with voicemail, irons, ironing boards, refrigerators, hairdryers, make up mirrors, and safes. Cribs and roll away beds are available, as well as smoking and non-smoking rooms. The rooms are even sprinkled with Pixie Dust! For families, the suites are highly recommended. Suites contain one, two, or three bedrooms, and have all of the amenities of a standard room as well.

The Concierge service at the Disneyland Hotel cannot be topped. Concierge service entitles you to priority check-in, admission to an exclusive lounge, a continental breakfast, an evening wine and cheese reception. Nightly turn-down service is included, as well as DVD players and complimentary movies. You will also have an unlimited supply of bottled water and soft drinks. The Concierge serves to make your vacation as enjoyable and trouble-free as possible.

Disney touches are everywhere, and this is the closest you can actually come to living in Never Land. The swimming pool even has a Never Land theme, and there are several cove pools and a sandy beach. The hotel also features a children’s playground, a volleyball court, and Koi fish ponds. The recreational area encompasses a 5000 square foot area inspired by Peter Pan. There are many scenic waterfalls, tropical foliage, and mysterious caves on the property. There is even a Team Mickey work out room full of state-of-the-art gym equipment.

At the Disneyland Hotel, you will feel like your Disney experience has truly already started as soon as you walk in the door. This is where the famous Goofy’s Kitchen is located, as well as The Captain’s Galley, The Coffee House, Crocs Bits ‘n’ Bites, Granville’s Steak House, Hook’s Pointe, The Wine Cellar, and The Lost Bar.

When you stay at the Disneyland Hotel, your vacation continues even after a day of sight seeing and attractions in the park. In fact, your Disneyland vacation begins each and every morning when you wake up in the Magic Kingdom that the Disneyland Hotel represents.

Take a Disneyland Tour

2009-09-04T03:00:00.000-07:00

No Disneyland Vacation can be complete without a Disneyland tour – especially if it is your first trip to Disneyland. There are currently four different tours to choose from, and Disneyland park admission is required for all tours. It is strongly advised that you make a reservation for the tours that you wish to go on.

Disneyland’s Discover the Magic Tour may be the most popular of the four. This tour will have you and your family working with Disneyland characters to find clues and hunt for treasure. You can literally live out a Disneyland fantasy with your family and loveable characters, outsmarting the Disney bad guys! This tour includes lunch and an exclusive gift that can only be obtained on this tour.

The Discover the Magic Tour lasts for about three hours. There is a two ticket minimum, and the cost is $49 each of the first two tickets, with additional tickets costing $39. The tour is appropriate for the 5 – 9 year old age group, and adults. The tour is not really suitable for children under the age of five, or for children who need strollers.

The VIP Tour lasts for about four hours, and costs $75 per hour for a party of up to ten people. You must book this tour well in advance, or there will be an additional twenty dollar fee. The tour is not recommended for children, but is designed more for people who have a true love and interest in Disney and Disneyland history.

The Welcome to Disneyland Tour is absolutely perfect for first timers. There are many benefits to this tour, including priority seating at one of the stage shows, tips and suggestions for getting the most out of your Disneyland vacation, a brief history of the park, priority seating at one of the many restaurants, instruction in using FastPass, two bonus FastPass tickets, and much more. This tour lasts about two and a half hours, and costs $25 per person.

A Walk in Walt’s Footsteps focuses on the vision of Walt Whitman, and is not really suitable for small children. Filled with history and trivia about the park, this tour lasts for more than three hours, and costs $49 per person. The main feature of this tour is your peek at the exclusive Club 33.

Again, you should definitely consider making one of these tours part of your Disneyland experience – especially if this will be your first trip to Disneyland. You may see things and learn things that you would not see or learn without the benefit of the tour!

The Rough Guide to India 7 (Rough Guide Travel Guides)

2009-09-03T07:39:00.000-07:00

Now I find The Rough Guide to India 7 (Rough Guide Travel Guides) Coming Soon I find this from Amazon I will That interes, You that Agree?.

Customer Shopping BuZZ

Devoted fan of Rough Guides

I should begin by saying that I traveled around India with the fourth edition of the Rough Guide. Though I cannot comment on how updates and revisions may affect the utility of this particular version, I feel quite confident in recommending the Rough Guide over any other guidebook in the market.
My approach to travel has always been one of depth over breadth, cultural authenticity over the latest tourist craze. After spending 2 years in Senegal as a Peace Corps Volunteer, I went to India believing that I might somehow have the same ease of access to village life and cultural events that I had in West Africa. That belief was quickly dispelled, though I came to find many other redeeming qualities to travel and to life in India. In total, I have spent about one year in the country and have relied on my Rough Guide in many, many ways.

There is absolutely no way to compare the depth of historical context and cultural insight given by the Rough Guide with what you may find in Lonely Planet or other guidebooks to India. I frequently borrowed Lonely Planet guides from other travelers to compare its recommendations with the ones I found in my Rough Guide. I consistently found the Lonely Planet to be poorly researched, to offer extremely limited background information, and to eliminate many sites/entries of more obscure or esoteric value to the traveler. It would be incredibly difficult to stick to the Lonely Planet and not be one of the millions of blind backpackers circumnavigating the globe thinking they are actually seeing something. The Rough Guide, in comparison, offered countless 'text-box' entries describing the complexities of modern-day life in India. A few that come to mind dealt with drug use, journalism, organized crime, education, et al.

If you expect to spend a significant amount of time in India, you will want to know as much cultural information as possible in order to decipher the circus of events going on around you. In many ways you will be marginalized and will struggle to ever feel like you could possibly belong in the place. This of course is the love-hate relationship that nearly every foreigner who spends enough time there will eventually develop. That being said, your status as outsider will allow you to observe and analyze the country in ways that will teach you volumes about your own native land and culture. My Rough Guide proved to be an indispensable companion on trains and in hotels. It gave me the right combination of thorough logistical information for travel necessities and in-depth cultural information for personal ones. Use your Rough Guide to the fullest and get ready to see how much you can love and hate a place at the same time...

Not very useful for Northeastern India, but great for North India
I have just returned from a one month holiday in Bangladesh and Northeastern India. I was hoping for a more region-specific guide but there isn't one, so I had to carry this bulky country-wide guide with me.
This appears to be an excellent guide for the more "usual" destinations in India, but people should be aware that it barely covers Northeastern India at all. Part of this is due to an editorial decision to drop information from prior editions due to political instability in many of those states, but the decisions on which areas to drop do not match local knowledge about which areas actually might prove unsafe for foreigners as opposed to local politicians. Granted, it is an ever-changing scenario, and this guide is by now a few years old.

My main complaint though is the maps of the hill stations; particularly those of Darjeeling and Gangtok. They are just plain wrong, and not to scale (even in cases where they say they are to scale). Unfortunately the Indian government tourist maps for those towns and also Kalimpong are also wrong, and not to scale either, but are somewhat more helpful, so my suggestion is to visit the local tourist offices immediately upon arrival in each town and pick up their official maps.

In both cases, however, contours are missing, and considering that these towns have several hundred to several thousand feet differential between top and bottom, and that there are no pedestrian steps to cut across the time-consuming road switchbacks, one can easily make a wrong decision at a switchback crossing and miss a major point of interest (such as the major monastery at the top of Gangtok). At the very least, since most roads are one-way (and few if any are marked), showing directionals would help.
Considering this edition is many generations removed from the first edition, it is not acceptable that directions are often completely inaccurate. For instance, the major monastery outside Gangtok is listed as being to its east, when it is really to its southwest (but I did find it). And in Kalimpong, I missed the main monastery as I ran out of time after going more than twice as far as the stated distance and still not reaching the monastery south of town (which R.G. listed as being at the top of the hill, when ALL of the locals that I asked confirm it is near the bottom!).

To be fair, the Lonely Planet guide is much, much worse all around. I have just ordered the Footprint guide to see if it is more accurate and complete for this region of India. I would at least like an accurate reference for matching against my trip notes, photos, and writeups!

As far as the non-Himalayan eastern states are concerned, there is almost no coverage at all, for the previously stated reasons, but hopefully this will change in the next edition, as travel restrictions are blightening up and it is now possible to arrange permits for Aranchal Pradesh and Naga just a few days in advance (quite easy if you sign up for a local multi-day tour based out of a major town such as Guwahati in Assam).

It would have been helpful to be more specific about which languages are spoken in which towns/regions, as this area is quite a patchwork, and also to mention the likelihood (or not) of encountering English speakers. As it turns out, the main hub for northeastern connections, Siliguri (in the northern part of West Bengal state), inexplicably has almost no English fluency at all, even though ALL travelers must pass through this town to make onward connections. Most resourceful travelers can work through this though, but travel guides need to also guide the more timid tourists.

I will give Rough Guide credit for fairly good descriptions of the major highlights and how to reach them (which is quite difficult and more than one can ask from a guide that is only updated every two to three years). As always, they are the most culturally sensitive guide book and take the most effort to go for first source information (vs. Lonely Planet's habit of quoting second source information that is incorrect, without bothering to check it out -- and I am referring not just to location based information, but also cultural and historical background).

This was my travel companion.
After spending 3 weeks in India, I had only wished I read this book more thoroughly. I visted 4 areas (Mumbai, Delhi, Jaipur, Agra) of which I stayed in everywhere but Agra. Rough Guide has nice maps describing major areas, good list of hotels, and restaurants along with major attractions that were helpful in me finding my way.

I only had a brief chance to look at Lonely Planet from someone who sat across from me on a train back from Delhi to Mumbai so I can't say which one is better. By the end of my vacation, Rough Guide was always with me, along with my DSLR. I would strongly recommend you to consider this book as one of your travel books.

Features

ISBN13: 9781858289946
BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.

Product Description

Discover a land of exotic beauty and inspiring culture with The Rough Guide to India</COUNTRY-REGION />, the most comprehensive guide to India</COUNTRY-REGION /></PLACE /> on the market. The 36 page full-colour introduction with stunning photography will whet your appetite for the country’s many highlights, from fast-paced Delhi</CITY /> and the sacred sites of the Ganges plain to the Moghul splendour of Agra</PLACE /></CITY /> and the shell-sand beaches of the south. The guide features three new colour sections on Sacred India, Handicrafts and Bollywood, as well as expert background information on everything from temple architecture to Indian classical music. Easy-to-use maps and extensive accommodation and restaurant listings, plus all the practical grittiness you’d expect from a Rough Guide make this your must-have item for the trip of a lifetime.

Make the most your time with The Rough Guide to India</PLACE /></COUNTRY-REGION />.

List Price: $29.99

Amazon Price: $19.79 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Source From bestsellingbooks2009-20
I would be grateful if you would give me the Interview
Cheers !.

Pamper Yourself at Disneyland

2009-09-03T02:59:00.000-07:00

You may think that Disneyland is only about fun, excitement, and activity – but you would be wrong. Disneyland is also about relaxation and pampering. The pampering you receive at Disneyland may not be the same that you would receive at a world class spa, but it is relaxing and makes you feel special just the same.

The easiest way to get pampered on your Disneyland vacation is to book your room at one of the Disneyland resorts, and upgrading your room to one that includes Concierge services. The difference in the price may startle you a bit, with rooms costing up to $300 per night, but the service you receive will be out of this world.

First, your room will be much nicer if you have the Concierge service. You will have free bottles of water, soft drinks, coffee, and tea at all times. You will be able to check in and out faster at the Concierge check in counter, and a nightly turndown service is included.

Access to the Concierge lounge is where the pampering really starts! You will enjoy a continental breakfast in the lounge each morning. You can also opt to take your breakfast back to your room. In the afternoon, while the kids watch Disney Videos, you will enjoy a wine tasting in the lounge as well.

There are many more perks available with the Concierge service, differing at each resort. To determine whether the Concierge service will benefit you and your family, call the resort that you are considering, and simply ask what perks are included with this service. Ask to be connected with the concierge desk to ensure that you are getting accurate information.

Again, the cost of this upgrade is a bit high, but when you close your eyes and dream of all of the pampering and special treatment that you and your family will enjoy, and you tally up the cost of the free breakfast and drinks, you may find that the cost is well worth it. In fact, depending on the size of your family, you may even discover that the value of the free breakfast and the free drinks even makes the entire Disneyland trip a little less expensive for you!

Once you’ve experienced the Concierge Service on a trip to Disneyland, you may not be satisfied with anything less on future Disneyland trips. The service is out of this world, and can only serve to make your trip more relaxing and enjoyable.

Best Places for Medical Tourism

2009-09-02T05:20:00.000-07:00

Medical tourists from different countries travel for health care purposes to those countries having quality healthcare services at reasonable prices. So they spend extra money on travel, health care and accommodations on the places of treatment. Medical tourism is an old concept because thousands of years ago people traveled for medical purposes or for spiritual treatments to different countries. Many factors are considered while choosing a destination place for medical tourism such as high healthcare services and costs, waiting for certain procedures, availability and affordability of international travel, quality and latest technology used in the treatment.

Some of the most popular places include Europe, Japan, Middle East, UK, United States, Canada and Costa Rica. These places are popular due to the quality of their health care services, technology and competency of physicians. The hospitals of Bolivia, Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, Costa Rica, Mexico, Cuba and Turkey are popular for Cosmetic surgery treatments. Surgeons of South American countries like Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia and Argentine lead in plastic surgery due to their experience and knowledge. Plastic surgery is very common in Argentina, Bolivia, Mexico, Colombia and US. Slovakia, Belgium and Poland are entering in the business of health care and medical tourism.

A large number of Americans are going abroad for health care although the facilites of health in US are also availabe. There are many intermediary companies which provide help in medical tourism. These companies offer global health care at reasonable costs. There are different commissions and societies which care for the quality and standards of the hospitals available for medical tourism. Counteries such as Malaysia, Thailand, India and Costa Rica have many infectious diseases as compare to Norht America and Europe . So medical tourists need to stay for some time in the country which they choose for health care because travel soon after surgery can create many complexities. Tourists having breath and heart related problems avoid long flights and combine their vacation tours with medical tours.

th American Places
The quality of healthcare in Canada is not less than that of America but medical tourists can save 30 to 60 percent of their costs as compare to America. Medical tourists can save up to 80 on healthcare services in Costa Rica as compare to US. Costa Rica is popular for cosmetic procedure, dental, weight-loss and orthopedic surgeries. Knee replacement surgery is very cheap so patients travel to Costa Rica for medical tourism. Patients from all over the world travel to cuba for the best quality of healthcare services and fine reputation of their doctors. Medical tourists of Europe and Latin America travle to this destination because of its situation and save up to 60 to 80 percent as compare to the charges in US. The hospitals of cuba are best known for cancer treatment, cosmetic surgery, joint replacement, eye surgery and addictions rehabilitations. the government of cuba has taken many steps to increase income from medical tourism and patients of US, Canada and UK visit cuba for medical treatments. Dominincan Republic is very popular destination for hip replacement, bariatric surgeries, plastic surgeries, knee replacement, eye surgeries and all other medical treatments. Medical tourists can save from 50 to 75 percent as compare to the costs in US. The plastice surgery and dentistry healthcare services of Mexico are appreciated by all the world. The costs of these treatments are one-fourth to one-fifth of American costs. The quality of health care services in Mexico is very high and medical tourists are satisfied.
Quality health services, location and dollar as the official currency are the reasons that Panama is famous for its medical services. The medical professionals of Panama are trained by US and use the latest technology to provide quality healthcare services. Medical tourists can save more than 50 percent of healthcare costs as compare to Europe and US. Dental implants, assisted reproduction, cosmetic dentistry, plastic surgery, cardiology, orthopedics and pulmonology are the popular procedures in medical treatments. Surgeons of Brazil have gained world wide fame in cosmetic surgery.

South American Places
Orthopedic surgeries , Cosmetic surgery, transplant surgery, eye surgery and cardiovascular are popular procedures in Colombia. Healthcare services in Colombia are cheap and foreigners can get human organs from Colombia. The doctors of colombia are experienced and have worked in many counteries of Europe and US.

Asian Places
China has gained popularity in stem cell treatments. The medical professionals of India are popular for hip resurfacing, heart surgery and areas of advanced medicine. The treatment costs in India are very low which is nearly one-tenth to the treatment costs of US. The healthcare service in Malaysia are also very popular and the doctors of Malaysia are trained in the hospitals of US and UK. New Zealand is a popular medical tourism destination for fertitlity treatments and non-acture surgical procedures. The doctors are trained in the hospitals of UK and US. The costs of healthcare services are very low as comparet to US. Thailand is popular in organ transplant and cardiac surgery at lower prices.

Europe
Moreover British and Canadian medical tourists don’t wait long and travel to Germany for medical treatments. Novel cancer and spine surgery are well treated in Germany at lower prices. Dentistry services in ukraine are provided at lower costs. High class material and equipment is used in dental clinics and hospitals. There are many suitable places for medical tourism but a medical tourist chooses according to his own choice and afforability.

Technorati : Medical Tourism,UK Tourism,Tourism

Patients Beyond Borders: Everybody's Guide to Affordable, World-Class Medical Tourism Author by : Josef Woodman
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Medical Tourism

2009-09-02T05:17:00.000-07:00

Medical tourism is the process of traveling abroad in order to receive medical care, be it cosmetic surgery, heart surgery, breast implants, a hip replacement, or dental work.

Benefits of Medical Tourism
Health care costs are constantly on the rise in countless Western countries. In the US alone, it is already a multi-billion dollar industry that shows no sign of stopping (worldwide it is over $3 trillion US). But why pay exorbitant prices at home when you can travel abroad and receive the same treatment (if not better) from a fully certified medical facility for a fraction of the price?

The following are some of the benefits of medical tourism:

Affordable

For many procedures, it's often more expensive to receive treatment at home than it is to purchase a plane ticket, book a hotel, and pay for all medical expenses out of pocket in a foreign country. This is especially true in popular medical tourism destinations such as India, Thailand, Singapore and South Korea.

No wait times

Because popular medical destinations actively recruit patients from abroad, they do everything they can to eliminate wait times, provide patients with options, and ensure optimal care.

Many Options are Available

Some countries heavily regulate (or even ban) certain elective procedures or complicated surgeries. Hip resurfacing, for example, was only recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration, despite its widespread use and success rate at many popular medical tourism destinations around the world. With medical tourism, you can travel to parts of the world where hospitals specialize in the aforementioned procedures.

More personalized care

Many providers offer more personalized care--i.e., a higher physician-to-patient ratio--than is commonly available in the United States or Canada.

Enjoy the Medical Vacations

The fact of the matter is, most of us need medical treatment from time to time, and most of us plan vacations every year or so. Combine the two into an all-out medical vacation and enjoy! Recuperating after surgery on a white sand beach while sipping island drinks and receiving full-body massages.

Important Tips
Besides doing a thorough research on the procedure, hospital, surgeon and the destination country, keep the following contact information handy when you go abroad for any medical treatment:

Emergency contacts like relatives and friends
Destination embassy
Hospital
Hotel
Local surgeon / doctor
Employer

Conclusion
Depending on the location and procedure, a medical vacation can cost 50%, 30%, or even 10% of what you would pay at home. The appeal of this phenomenon is driven by cost savings as high as 90%, depending on the procedure and the country in which it is performed, and virtually no wait times. Even when you factor in air fare, hotels, travel insurance, car rentals, shopping, and dining, many medical vacations are substantially more affordable than domestic health care is. This means that those who choose medical tourism are able to utilize the services of some of the top surgeons in the world, all while enjoying exotic locales and accommodations. Patients can put the money they are saving on the procedure into turning their journey into a magnificent, world-class retreat. For millions of patients, it is the only way to get the needed or desired medical treatment, without wiping out their entire life-savings.

Technorati : Uk Tourism,Tourism

Medical tourism: Medical tourism,Dental tourism,Fertility tourism,Medical tourism in India,World Tourism Organization,Medical ethics,Patient safety,Travel nursing,Travel agency,Health tourism provider Author by :
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Medical Tourism – World Class Healthcare at an Affordable Cost

2009-09-02T04:07:00.001-07:00

In the ever-changing world of international healthcare, medical tourism is a rising trend. In fact, medical tourism is a phenomenon that has taken the world of healthcare by storm in recent years. It remains a unique proposition that no only involves the healthcare industry but also has a significant impact on the tourism industry.
What is medical tourism? Why is everybody talking about it these days? And is it a good choice for you? Let’s try and answer these questions.

The practice of visiting new places in search of favorable climate or on just being advised by a doctor to go ‘on a change’ is not new. Medical tourism is just a refined form of this age old habit practice of humanity. In its broadest sense, medical tourism combines care for your health with international tourism. The primary reason behind its surging popularity is that it enables the common man to avail better healthcare services at an affordable budget. When one’s health is one’s concern, it is natural to look for the best treatment options within one’s budget. Countries such as India, Dubai and Malaysia are fast emerging as the forerunners in providing world-class healthcare facilities. These include a wide array of highly skilled healthcare professionals, trained in various specialized disciplines, state-of-the-art equipment and modern amenities, impeccable service and personal attention to every need of the patient and all these, at a cost that’s surprisingly affordable.

Most people in need of specialized healthcare services feel daunted by the high cost associated with them. Countries such as US, Canada or some European nations, offer the same high standard healthcare facilities as India, Malaysia or Dubai, at a cost that’s substantially greater. Let’s face it, not everybody can afford the high cost associated with healthcare services in his or her own country. Nor do all of us enjoy the benefits of a high medical insurance coverage.
All this naturally necessitates the need to look for similar healthcare services elsewhere, where the cost is significantly lower. Healthcare tourism makes it possible to save up to 80% (as compared to US/UK) on medical costs by opting for countries like India. Healthcare tourism in India is fast gaining in popularity because of this simple reason.
Medical tourism also gives you other advantages such as reduced waiting periods for your treatment. If there is a critical treatment involved, or an operation that needs to be done quickly, you can initiate the process almost immediately after contacting the healthcare professionals in these countries. Most hospitals or medical establishments in the US or UK have lengthy waiting lists and necessitate wait for a substantially longer period of time.
So what can you expect in the lap of foreign hospitality? Nothing less than what you would in your own country. Smart and well-informed professionals, speaking fluent English and attending to every detail with meticulous attention, only add to the overall experience. You can rest assured knowing that the task of caring for your health is in good, able hands.

The reasons that contribute to the ever increasing popularity of medical tourism are not difficult to understand.

Healthcare Tourism – the Smart Way to Shrink your Medical Bills!

2009-09-02T04:00:00.001-07:00

Healthcare tourism is the perfect blend between care for your health and international tourism. Disparate as they may seem, healthcare tourism is a rising trend the world over. The reasons behind the escalating popularity and the widespread practice of healthcare tourism are threefold.

Let’s take a closer look at each.
The primary reason is simply a search for better healthcare services with budget. When one’s health is one’s concern, it is natural to look for the best treatment options within one’s budget. Countries such as India are fast coming to the forefront as provider of world-class healthcare facilities. These include a wide array of highly skilled healthcare professionals, trained in various specialized disciplines, state-of-the-art equipment and modern amenities, impeccable service and personal attention to every need of the patient and all these, at a cost that’s surprisingly affordable.

This brings us to the second reason behind the surging popularity of healthcare tourism – economy of cost. Most people in need of specialized healthcare services feel daunted by the high cost associated with them. Countries such as US, Canada or some European nations, offer the same high standard healthcare facilities at a cost that’s substantially greater than countries like India or Malaysia or Dubai. Let’s face it, not everybody can afford the high cost associated with healthcare services in his or her own country. Nor do all of us enjoy the benefits of medical insurance.

All this naturally necessitates the need to look for similar healthcare services elsewhere, where the cost is lower. Healthcare tourism makes it possible to save up to 80% (as compared to US/UK) on medical costs by opting for countries like India. Healthcare tourism in India is fast gaining in popularity because of this simple reason.
Last, but not the least, you get other benefits such as reduced waiting periods for your treatment. If there is a critical treatment involved, or an operation that needs to be done quickly, you can initiate the process almost immediately after contacting the healthcare professionals in these countries. Most hospitals or medical establishments in the US or UK have lengthy waiting lists and necessitate wait for a substantially longer period of time.

Smart and well-informed professionals, speaking fluent English and attending to every detail with meticulous attention, only add to the overall experience. You can rest assured knowing that the task of caring for your health is in good, able hands. You will also find comfort in the thought that when you are fully treated and about to return home, you will not be handed bills that will make you fall sick all over again.

So what makes healthcare tourism tick? The reasons are many. Exorbitant cost of healthcare and medical facilities in advanced countries, ease and affordability of international travel, favorable currency exchange rates in the global economy, rapidly improving technology and high standards of medical care in the developing countries - all of these have contributed to the rapid development of medical tourism. Opt for healthcare tourism and get the best of medi-care without breaking the bank. And did we mention, the joys and thrills of visiting a new country come for free?

Personal Comfort at Disneyland

2009-09-02T02:58:00.000-07:00

There is no better way to ruin your Disneyland vacation than trying to walk around with blisters on your feet! It is vitally important that you wear comfortable shoes that are already broken in. You will be doing more walking than you normally would when you visit Disneyland.

It is also important that you bring a change of clothing. You can rent a locker at Disneyland to store your extra clothes. You can rub your thighs raw if you ride water rides in denim shorts, then try to walk around while you dry out! Enjoy the water rides – but then go change into dry clothing! Bring extra shoes as well. Walking around in wet shoes is not only uncomfortable; it can also contribute to blisters.

More than blisters can cause discomfort. Some people simply are not used to being on their feet all day. If your feet are tired and sore at the end of the day, soak them in cool water with Epsom salt. This will offer more relief than soaking them in hot or warm water. After a good twenty minute soak, your feet will feel refreshed and ready for more walking!

Health tourism: UK out, Thailand in

2009-09-01T04:32:00.000-07:00

British expatriates are now no longer entitled to free healthcare under the UK 's National Health Service following a crackdown on what has been termed ‘health tourism'. But as the UK shies away from the health tourism phenomenon, countries like Thailand are welcoming it with open arms.

As of this year, British nationals resident outside the UK are no longer automatically eligible for free expat health treatment through the National Health Service, according to the controversial proposal made earlier this year by UK Health Secretary Jo hn Reid.

The changes came about as part of the UK government's crackdown on what has been labelled in the press as ‘health tourism'. As a result of growing concerns and criticism, a three-month public consultation was carried out late last year to determine how to amend the system. This followed fears that the accession of 10 additional states in May 2004 to the EU would lead to a further increase in ‘visitors' taking benefit of the free health service and claims that the National Health Service was already under extreme pressure from asylum seekers needing medical attention. The result, from 1 April 2004, is that only employed, tax-paying residents and their dependants are entitled to free services from the NHS and non-residents are not.

Since the original announcement early this year, little up-to-date information has actually been released by the government. However, according to the Department of Health press releases and their website, there are new guidelines as to the eligibility for free treatment. British expats who spend less than three months a year in the UK will no longer have automatic free access expat health clinics, hospitals and GPs, except for emergency treatment, such as for a heart attack. Those seeking medical treatment could be asked to prove their residency status by showing council tax bills, pay slips and records of National Insurance contributions. However, there are further guidelines stating that to be exempt from medical costs, British nationals living abroad need to have lived continuously in the UK for 10 years and either have not worked abroad for more than five years, or if they have, they need to have taken home leave to the UK once every two years.

Confused yet? So is the NHS it seems. To make matters worse, there have been reports in the press that some expatriates have been refused free access to treatment whereas others have not had such difficulties. How this will be checked and administered is not known, though it seems that the decision to accept or to refuse free treatment is left to the treating medical establishment. Furthermore, support from the British Medical Association is unlikely as the profession is split on the subject. They feel that it is not the job of a doctor to decide who is to be given treatment but realise that non-UK residents are taking advantage of free treatment while visiting the country.

While it is doubtful that those who choose to go back to the UK for non-urgent care such as a hernia operation will face a bill at the moment, it could only be a matter of time before free medical treatment becomes a thing of the past. With this in mind, expat health insurance that is valid overseas, as well as in the UK, either for temporary visits or permanent return is likely to become of more importance.

Technorati : UK Tourism,Tourism

Travel and Tourism for Advanced GNVQ (Hodder Advanced GNVQ) Author by : Gillian Dale
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

How to Dine With Disneyland Characters

2009-09-01T02:51:00.000-07:00

If you really want to delight your child – or yourself – you should arrange to have a Disneyland Character meal. This will allow you and your whole family to have quality time with one or more of the Disneyland characters. In fact, this is the best way to really get to interact with them for any length of time.

Start by making a reservation. This can be done through the Disneyland Vacation Planning Services Department. Reservations can be made up to sixty days in advance, so don’t leave this to the last minute. Make these reservations while your Disneyland vacation is being planned.

Character breakfasts take place each morning at the park. You do not need a reservation for these meals. These breakfasts take place in many of the parks restaurants, but Goofy’s Kitchen is a great place to start. It is located in the Disneyland Hotel, and there are dishes to please everyone. Children under three years of age get to eat free, which should be considered when you are planning the budget for your trip. Goofy is always there, with Pluto, but other characters come and go all throughout the day. You should definitely make reservations for Goofy’s kitchen, as it is quite popular, and the wait can be very long.

If dining with Princesses is important, than Ariel’s Grotto is the place to be. Serving three course meals, this is elegant dining that both kids and adults can enjoy. Each princess will come spend a little time at your table during your meal – one at a time. Reservations for Ariel’s Grotto are also recommended. This is one place in the park where both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are served.

The Storyteller’s Caf้ is another place that is highly recommended for Character Meals. Characters are only here during breakfast, however. While time is not spent at each individual table, the Characters do interact with the children as a group. Both buffet and menu dining are available, and again, reservations are recommended. Lilo and Stitch also have a Character Breakfast, as does Minnie Mouse. Breakfast with Minnie and Friends is extremely popular, so make reservations.

You should definitely include a Character Meal or two in your Disneyland Vacation plans. This is something that your child will remember forever and interacting with the famous Disney characters that we all know and love is part of what Disneyland is all about! Be sure to make reservations as far in advance as possible.

Know about Thailand - Explore Thailand

2009-09-01T01:38:00.000-07:00

Thailand is the world's 51st-largest country in terms of total area. Thailand is the most-populous country, with approximately 63 million people. About 80% of People are Thai, 10% Chinese, 3% Malay and the rest are minorities from Mons, Khmers & hill tribes. Ethnic Thais form the majority, though the area has historically been at migratory crossroads, and has thus produced a degree of ethnic diversity. More than 94% of populations are Buddhist. India, China and many other western countries are considerably influenced by Thailand’s traditions and cultures. Bangkok city can be a center for commercial, industrial, political, cultural activities. Thailand is very famous for vacation tours as there are many places to visit. Person arrives for business tour to Thailand also enjoys the weather, climate, beaches, Thai food and many places.

Thais are well-known for their hospitality and friendliness. Majority of over 62 million citizens of Thailand are ethnic Thai, along with strong communities whose ethnic origins lie in China, India and elsewhere. More than 7 million people reside in the capital city of Bangkok. Bangkok which is the largest city in Thailand is also Thailand’s capital city for more than two centuries. Bangkok offers pleasure, ease and a shopping experience par excellence. Excel at the arts of shopping, dining and revel in the entertainment amidst a thoroughly modern metropolitan area that preserves its traditional Oriental magnificence. For tourists, Bangkok has a feast of attractions to offers which includes 400 glittering Buddhist temples of great beauty and charm, The Grand Palace, The Giant Swing, Royal Barge National Museum, Gemopolis, traditional dance extravaganzas, numerous shopping centers and traditional ways of life. It is worth taking a trip along its waters before exploring further into different canals to take a sight of old Bangkok.

Throughout its 800-year history, Thailand can boast the distinction of being the only country in Southeast Asia which never been colonized. It is one of the most powerful Buddhist countries in the world. Theravada Buddhism is their national religion which is a branch of Hinayana Buddhism. Thailand’s Buddhism continues to cast strong weight on daily life. Senior monks are highly respected. Thus, in towns and villages, the temple (wat) is the spirit of social and religious life. One of the most popular aspects of Buddhism is Meditation which is practiced regularly by many Thai as a means of promoting inner peace and happiness. Visitors, too, can learn the fundamentals of this practice at several centers in Bangkok and elsewhere in the country.

Best places to visit in Thailand are Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Ko Samui, Pattaya, Krabi, Ayutthaya, Hat Yai, Phuket, Ko Chang and many more.

Technorati : Thailand Tourism,Tourism

Thailand with your family (Frommers With Your Family Series) Author by : Jack Barker
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series

2009-08-31T21:40:00.000-07:00

Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series

The Ibis Koh Samui Trophy brings the new, spectacular and fast growing sport of Adventure Racing to the South of Thailand.

Supported by Ibis, The Tourism Authority of Thailand, the Tourism Association of Koh Samui and the Thai Hotel Association of Koh Samui, this inaugural Adventure Race is set to attract 150 teams from around the world.Scheduled on September 19 and part of the Amazing Thailand Adventure Race Series, the race will start and finish from the magnificent Bohput beach in front of the IBIS hotel in Bohput.

Adventure Racing is a highly visual and dynamic sport genre, stretching competitors to their limits. It is a sport that is rapidly capturing the imagination of sport people in Thailand and around the world.

“After the tremendous success of the other races of the Series in Kanchanaburi, Nong Chok and Chiang Mai, it was important to have a competition in the South” explains Serge Henkens, the Race Director and managing director of Active Management Asia.

20% of the sponsor’s donations will go to environment friendly initiatives brought by “The Green Island Project”, a local green association.

“Despite 10 years of unbelievable development, we wanted to show that the Island has a lot to offer and is still a paradise destination”continues Henkens. “Well-known for its magnificent beaches, Samui also offers fantastic opportunities for Adventure and Great Outdoor lovers. The Island has all the ingredients for a memorable race: the blue ocean, forests, mountains, water falls, sandy beaches and a very rich fauna and flora. The perfect recipe for great Adventure Racing” concludes Henkens.

The Koh Samui Trophy will offer 4 disciplines: Running, Cycling, Kayaking and Swimming.
The competitors will hike and run through unspoiled jungle, paddle and swim on the turquoise waters of the gulf of Thailand and cycle over the hills with spectacular views on the ocean.

As we offer 2 divisions, Adventure (easier course) and Extreme (longer course), the race is really accessible to everyone! continues Henkens.

The winners of the extreme division are expected to complete the course in approximately 4:30.
The fastest team in the Adventure division is planned to finish in around 3:30h.

The Race offers 2 divisions:
 Adventure (Short course for newcomers and W.E. warriors)
 Extreme (Long course for confirmed athletes and experienced Racers)

Disciplines: Running, Kayaking, Biking, Swimming and other mystery tests Teams of 2 racers Categories will be: Men, Women, Mixed, Masters Men (over 80 years combined) and Seniors Men (over 100 years combined)

About IBIS:
Ibis, the worldwide economy hotel brand of the Accor group, offers consistent quality accommodation and services in all its hotels, for the best local value.

Ibis Samui is the 4th Ibis hotel opened in Thailand after ibis Phuket Patong, Ibis Pattaya and Ibis Bangkok Sathorn.

Ibis is also reinforcing its presence this year in Bangkok with the Ibis Bangkok Nana, opened in March and Ibis Phuket Kata opening end of the year.

About Active Management Asia
Adventure racing is a new sport that has exploded in popularity across Asia and Thailand. Active Management Asia is leading that growth in Thailand with its highly popular Amazing Adventure Race Series.

Now in its third year of operation, Active Management Asia has established an international reputation
for solid logistics and challenging race courses. These non-stop races, ranging in length from 4-8
hours, require teams to run, trek, mountain bike and paddle, while navigating a course through the wilderness.

Likened to an expedition with a stopwatch, adventure racing requires teamwork, perseverance, strategy and determination.

For more information:
Active Management Asia Co., Ltd
Khun Ying (Thai-English)
Tel: 02 7189581-2
Fax: 02 7189583
Email: info@active-asia.com
Website: www.kohsamuitrophy.com www.active-asia.com

Ayutthaya – Explore Thailand

2009-08-31T01:35:00.001-07:00

Ayutthaya also known as "Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya" is the capital of Ayutthaya province in Thailand. Ayutthaya was named after the city of Ayodhya in India, the birthplace of Rama in the Ramayana. Ayutthaya was the capital of the kingdom of Thailand for many centuries between 1350 and 1767. The Burmese invaded Ayutthaya and the capital fell in 1767. Most of the city's temples and religious sculptures were destroyed. However, proud monuments to its glory are still standing, some restored.

Ayutthaya is located about 90 kilometers from Bangkok. It is recommended that if you are interested in Thai history & ancient monuments then you have to stay 2 full days with an overnight for sight sightseeing. The extensive ruins and the historical records demonstrate that Ayutthaya was one of Southeast Asia’s most prosperous cities. Ayutthaya province is easily accessible due to good road, rail and river connections and its proximity to Bangkok. Boat Trip, Bangkok Ayutthaya Cruise, Bicycle Tours & Mountain Biking are the activities which we can enjoy in Ayutthaya.

Boat trips are available along the Chao Phraya River, the Pa Sak River and around the town island of Ayutthaya. A long-tailed boat can be chartered at the pier in front of Chanthara Kasem National Museum, Pom Phet Pier, and Wat Phananchoeng Pier. The fare totally depends on the route and duration which you will choose. The River King Cruise will take you to the World Heritage in Thailand Ayutthaya Province with international buffet lunch & beverages break. Witness the sensational view of the Chaopraya River where the great Temple of dawn (Wat Arun), Grand Palace (Wat Prakaew) and Rama where 8 Bridge are nested. Even you can visit the highlights of Ayutthaya; Summer Palace, Wat Yai Chaiyamonkol, Wat phrasisanphet, and Vihara Phramongkolbopitr. Cycle Tours from Tourism Authority of Thailand, Tourist Information Centre at the old city hall, the suggested 11.82 km cycling route is flat and paved, passing over a concrete bridge. It is ideal for families, amateurs and can be enjoyed year-round. Bicycles are available for rent at several locations. Sukhothai Ayutthaya Mountain Biking is dedicated cycle paths to take you round the majestic ruins, temples and palaces. Further south, a bike is the ideal way to see the sprawling remains of the kingdom's once great capital Ayutthaya.

Technorati : Thailand Tourism,Tourism

Thailand's Political History: From the Fall of Ayutthaya to Recent Times Author by : B.J. Terwiel
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Political Downturn as Thailand Tourism Accelerates

2009-08-31T01:31:00.001-07:00

This honor is considered to be the tourism equivalent of the Oscars, and Thailand has won it for eight consecutive years in the ‘world’s best country’ category. This is certainly a high accolade and not to be downplayed in any way, and proves there is more to the Land of Smiles than meets the eye.

Thailand and Scandinavia have long established a firm and fruitful relationship, with 378,387 Swedish tourists visiting the Kingdom during 2007, generating somewhere in the region of 25 Billion baht in revenue.

14.4 million Foreign nationals visited Thailand in 2007 alone from over 45 different countries. The official 2008 TAT figures have yet to be released, but the mood suggests a slight decrease in tourist numbers due to the worldwide economic problems.

The downturn is clearly a widespread issue, which doesn’t represent any failings on the part of Thailand as a major tourist destination in any way. And though businesses in Pattaya, Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai have noticed a minor drop in profits, thing are still carrying on as usual and tourists continue to flock to Thailand’s four favorite tourist regions.

Mike Parry, a U.K. expatriate bar owner in Phuket stated, “The Island is still the place to be, and visitors from all over the world are visiting Phuket in droves, spending big money, and the vibrant atmosphere is still the same as ever. To be honest, we are starting to notice an influx of visitors from more diverse countries than ever before.”

The majority of tourists come from Western European nations and Australia, but over the past two years there has been a dramatic rise of visitors from the Middle-East, China, Korea and Japan. This is an ever-growing market which Emirates Airline is quickly trying to accommodate by initiating a new Airbus A380 Megajet service from Dubai to Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport. Chumpol Silpa-archa, Minister of Sports and Tourism explained, “This launch reflects how much the airline expects visitors to increase to Thailand.” TAT have projected that visitors from the Middle East will rise 6.5% in 2009, and Emirates must be commended for their vigilance and vision.

All the major Airlines are also doing their utmost in combating the worldwide economic decline by providing value-for-money flights to encourage greater numbers to visit Thailand. For instance, Qantas/British Airways are beginning to offer special rates on economy tickets from Australia and the United Kingdom to Bangkok. From any major Australian city, British Airways are charging as little as 15,590bht, and 23,650bht from London for roundtrip economy tickets.

The American travel market is also receiving welcome discount prices for economy roundtrip tickets to Bangkok. Northwest and Delta Air Lines are providing tickets from American Cities such as San Francisco, Seattle, Los Angeles, Portland, Las Vegas and San Diego for as little as 20,000bht. Salt Lake City to Bangkok economy-class tickets are being offered from 26,500bht for the roundtrip.

David Phelps, an American national who has been visiting Thailand two times every year for the past decade said, “I wasn’t going to come to Thailand on vacation this year, what with the value of the Dollar and the economic hardships. But the airlines and Thailand themselves are making so much of an effort to drop the prices and encourage tourism, I have decided to make my usual pilgrimage to this beautiful country that I love very much.”

Repeat visitors make up more than one third of the Thailand tourism trade and this is not a coincidence. The magnetic allure of the country and its wonderful inhabitants is underestimated and is the foundation of the tourist industry. Long term visitors always joke, “Nobody visits Thailand only once.” This type of repeat visitor already understands how the country works and is not so dependent on package holidays or hotel bookings.

There is a reported 30% decrease in hotel occupancy, but when you take into consideration that so many repeat visitors are favoring self-catering short-term villa rentals instead of hotel accommodation, the industry is still very healthy.

The Pattaya based holiday home rental company Thailand Holiday Homes has seen their figures rise a massive 32% in a two year period, providing a fascinating insight to the changing demographics of the tourist industry. Khun Nom, the Thai owner of Thailand Holiday Homes said, “We have many repeat clients and referrals due to the fact of giving excellent value for money, a free car for their personal use and 24 hour service. It seems that modern tourists prefer the privacy and freedom which a luxury self-catering rental villa provides.”

Whether you are a repeat visitor or a first timer, Thailand is the quintessential tropical paradise, with a colourful culture and an electric atmosphere, where people fall in love at first sight. Many tourists visit the Kingdom for a number of reasons that include beachside getaways, cultural excursions and the amazing diving conditions with beautiful coral reefs.

Many western men fall in love with the country and the petite smiling females in particular. The feeling from the Thai women is mutual as a recent survey proved. The women of the Northeastern rural province of Isaan have long been famous for marrying western men. A recent survey which covered 484 women from the Northern provinces showed that a whopping 61% suggested they would like to marry a western man, not only because his wealth, but also for the respect and faithfulness they offer women.

It doesn’t really matter what your reason for visiting Thailand is, the country has showed massive resolve in combating the current economic problems of the world and is battling against adversity. Thailand will continue to win awards and accolades for being one of the world’s favorite holiday destinations for a simple reason. People love this amazing country and the exotic allure of its culture, breathtaking scenery and the gracious attitude of its inhabitants.

Technorati : Thailand Tourism,Tourism

Moon Thailand (Moon Handbooks) Author by : Suzanne Nam
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

The Best of St. Thomas and St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands (Best of St. Thomas & St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands)

2009-08-29T07:58:00.000-07:00

Now I find The Best of St. Thomas and St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands (Best of St. Thomas & St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands) from amazon website you can see now

Customer Shopping BuZZ

Good info but not always accurate
We recently came back from St Thomas and used "The Best of ..." while I found that there is a lot of good and usefull information in the book I also found that many of the phone numbers and locations were incorrect. This was a bit of a pain, but all in all I found the book most usefull. I would definitely recommend it for the first time visitor. Just use the yellow pages for phone numbers. This text refers to the previous printing of this title.

For New Comer's
This book provides very basic information on St. Thomas and limited information on St. John. The 1st timer to these islands may find this information helpful, however, most of what is included can be found in other sources which are readily available elsewhere. Other than the beautiful picture of Trunk Bay on the cover, the book provides no other pictures. Which, in my opinion, is a shame because the real magnificence of these islands would be better conveyed through some select pictures and not just text alone.

A must-read if you're planning to visit St. Thomas
I purchased and read this book before our trip to the US Virgin Islands, and I am very glad I did! Pamela Atcheson has compiled an extremely informative book on things to do, places to eat, where to shop, etc. Thanks to her advice, we dined happily every night, visited St. John via the ferry (a highlight of the trip), and made some unique purchases. Plus, it was fun to find places I had read about while I was planning our trip!

This book is everything you need in one resource.

About The Best of St. Thomas and St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands (Best of St. Thomas & St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands) detail

Amazon Sales Rank: #531945 in Books
Published on: 2006-09-01
Original language: English
Number of items: 1
Binding: Paperback
144 pages

Product Description

Completely updated with the latest information on resorts, restaurants, and shopping, this new edition covers St. Thomas as well as nearby St. John and describes the unique charms of each. Including information on intimate inns, beachside bars, breathtaking scenery, exhilarating boat and snorkel trips, elegant outdoor dining, jazz clubs, and a variety of cuisines as well as ice cream stands, this book covers the best of the islands. Also included is practical information for getting around the islands with ease, shopping tips, and the special “gems” of the island that might otherwise be missed.

Source From bestsellingbooks2009-20
Have a COOL !
Cheers

India - Culture Smart! : the essential guide to customs & culture

2009-08-28T07:35:00.000-07:00

Have a nice time i find India - Culture Smart!: the essential guide to customs & culture You can see Now!

Customer Shopping BuZZ

Culture Smart, India

This is the kind of book every first-time traveler to India needs! It is short and to-the-point, and gives a very concise guide to customs and etiquette that is required learning for Westerners. Other version of the Culture Smart series are available, so if you're traveling outside the U.S., be sure to get one of these incredibly handy guides. These books are small enough to take with you to for a quick refresher course, too!

A quick review of Indian customs
I find this book very informative and a quick reference for Indian customs. Although, you cannot touch on every aspect of a culture in a small handbook, the author has taken great pains to explain ways and means. The only caveat to avoid faux paus is to actually memorize the customs before you visit.

Product Description

Culture Smart! provides essential information on attitudes, beliefs and behavior in different countries, ensuring that you arrive at your destination aware of basic manners, common courtesies, and sensitive issues. These concise guides tell you what to expect, how to behave, and how to establish a rapport with your hosts. This inside knowledge will enable you to steer clear of embarrassing gaffes and mistakes, feel confident in unfamiliar situations, and develop trust, friendships, and successful business relationships.
Culture Smart! offers illuminating insights into the culture and society of a particular country. It will help you to turn your visit-whether on business or for pleasure-into a memorable and enriching experience. Contents include:
* customs, values, and traditions
* historical, religious, and political background
* life at home
* leisure, social, and cultural life
* eating and drinking
* do's, don'ts, and taboos
* business practices
* communication, spoken and unspoken
"Culture Smart has come to the rescue of hapless travellers." Sunday Times Travel
"... the perfect introduction to the weird, wonderful and downright odd quirks and customs of various countries." Global Travel
"...full of fascinating-as well as common-sense-tips to help you avoid embarrassing faux pas." Observer
"...as useful as they are entertaining." Easyjet Magazine
"...offer glimpses into the psyche of a faraway world." New York Times

Source From bestsellingbooks2009-20
Cheers and have a GREAT day!
Cheers

Benefits of Making Travel Guides for UK Tourism

2009-08-27T22:49:00.001-07:00

Author: Mike

Travel and tourism in UK are on an upswing and the time is right to make the most of it. There are many ways you can contribute to enhance tourism in UK and in return gain multiple benefits from it. One such way is by preparing travel guides. In this article, we will look at two things – how you can make travel guides for upcoming tourist destinations and what are the benefits that you can enjoy from this activity.

First, we will see how you can prepare travel guides for various destinations in UK. The first thing that you would have to do is choose a place for which you can make the travel guide. The best way would be if you could visit the place and write about it, however you can also put in second hand information. Now choose a few areas on which you would like to write.

Categorise all the information into separate sections like geographical details, climatic conditions during the year, transportation and how to reach the destination, communication system of the region, land and people, culture and lifestyle, best attractions and sight seeing etc. If you could add some pictures along, it would be great. Prima facie, the more information you can provide, the better the travel guides get.

There are many things that you can put in your travel guides. There are also many benefits that you will get in return of making travel guides. First, there are some web sites and magazines who pay you well for making travel guides for them. Second, you can also have your own blog and help those who seek information and get online traffic for your blog. This helps you gain recognition and prepares a launch pad for you in the much sought after UK tourism industry.

Technorati Tag : Travel Guides,UK Tourism

Career Award in Travel and Tourism: Standard Level (Cambridge International Examinations)
We Have More Tourism Guide Book in : BookmanClub.

....

Shilpa Shetty's Impact on India - UK Tourism

2009-08-27T22:01:00.001-07:00

Guess who's been hailed as the newest PR person for Indo-UK tourism: Shilpa Shetty's impact on INDO-UK tourism

Now knowing Bollywood film actress Shilpa Shetty's career was already on the back-burner, her entry into the British television show was no debacle as it was made out to by the lady and her tear-streaked face confirming and denying (in true filmy fashion, some would say) the effect of a co-contestant's supposedly racist remarks. The image conscious UK government was quick to rise to their defence and that of Shilpa's honor to be fair, issuing statements for not standing by any such cultural issues perpetrators like Jane Goody (the baddie in the show, accused of making unkindly remarks on Ms. Shetty) and rendered their full cooperation in tailing the story via their own substantially roused media counterparts. However, the good news for Indian tourism is that post-the Big Brother TV show publicity, renewed interest in India's spirituality and level of tolerance (we did issue an invitation to Jane Goody to cleanse her impure and overly aggressive thoughts by visiting Indian spa's etc!) have done the rounds for great marketing and the impact on Indo-UK tourism is all hunky-dory- at least on political say-so.

The event that sparked off the debate on the Indo-UK tourism sector being affected by Shilpa Shetty's appearance on the Big Brother TV show was the instance of a 'not-so-nice-name-calling' by a fellow contestant, which comprised allegedly racist remarks. India however, put up a brave front and made a public statement in January that the allegations of racist attacks on actor Shilpa Shetty in a British television show would not impact ties between the two countries, including the Indo-UK tourism sector, which stands to gain a lot by way of India having taken such a generous stand and once again emerging as the land of immense spirituality and magnitude of emotions.

Technorati Tag : travel issues,trave and destinations,UK Tourism

Shilpa: The Biography

UK Tourism on the increase

2009-08-27T21:48:00.001-07:00

The recession has hit most of us quite hard and luxuries like family holidays have either been cancelled or a cheaper alternative found. The UK tourism sector has, however, seen benefits of people looking for cheaper alternatives as the number of people holidaying in the UK has increased dramatically.

Some of us are still going abroad but the usual favourites of Spain and France are being caught by destinations such as Egypt, who have seen an increase in bookings of over 20%, the biggest rise for UK tourists. Turkey has also seen similar rises as the strength of the euro against the pound seemed to have persuaded holidaymakers to look outside the Eurozone.

Whilst there are families packing their suitcases and heading for warmer climates, there has been a decline in 18% of people travelling abroad.

In England, London, Manchester, Birmingham and Bristol are the most visited places as these are the main cities in the country and there is plenty to see and do there. It also no surprise that in Scotland the most visited cities are Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Highlands as you can experience and enjoy the picturesque backgrounds and stunning views.

Holidays in the UK are on the up and recent figures show that a 13% which equates to around 1.2 million more visits which is great news for the industry. Areas that depend on tourism have received a healthy boost from visits during the first 6 months of the year and many experts predict the popularity of holidays in the UK will continue over the summer months.

Business trips are down though as companies look to tighten their belts, 11% less business trips were taken during the first quarter of the year. This is really no surprise as technology means conference calls and webcams can be used to conduct meeting at a far cheaper price.

The UK tourism sector is hoping that everyone holidaying in the UK will realise what they have been missing all this time. Areas like the Lake District, North Wales and the Highlands in Scotland all provide great fun for all the family and also offer great views. These areas are set to be visited more during the summer months and we will see that we can have a great holiday in the UK.

The weather is due to improve in August so enjoy the sun, have a great time in the UK and kick back and relax with friends and family in some great UK destinations.

Technorati Tag : UK family holidays,holiday parks,UK Tourism

Holiday Courses for Long Weekends and Short Breaks:
A Guide to the Best Holiday Course and Workshops
in the UK & Ireland (Holiday Reference)

India Tourism Will Grab Your Heart

2009-08-27T20:27:00.000-07:00

India, one of the most popular tourist destinations of the world, is a county which have attracted travellers for ages. There are several reasons behind this. One of the main reasons is perhaps tourism. At travel and tourism industry in India is at it boom and helping the county in its economical growth. Tourism in India provides you a pleasant travel and learning experience. There many thing to see and observe in the county. In whatever part or reason of the county you will travel you will always find diversity welcoming you. You will find something new, something extra on every step of your travel within the country. The whole country is full of fascination. The county fulfills all categories of tourists whether they are lovers of cultural heritage, ancient beaches, adventures, natural beauty, or wildlife.

The county of India enjoys rich culture and heritage, amazing paradoxes & diversity, incredible physical beauty. It is said that the best to way to about any country is its culture and civilization. And off course in term of rich culture, tradition and heritage, India is far ahead from other countries. It has age-old civilization - perhaps the greatest civilization of the world. During India tours one can see and observe rich cultural heritage of the country in ancient monuments, forts and palaces, museums, etc. One can also observe culture and traditions of the country in its fairs and festivals. As we have mentioned that the county is the land of diversity, you can also see mesmerizing diversity in its culture and tradition.

There are several travel and holiday destination in India. One of them is Rajasthan which draws a large gathering of tourists and travellers from every corner of the world. In whatever region of Rajasthan you will travel, you will have a wonderful opportunity to see fantastic forts, palatial palaces, stunning Havelis, and museums, depicting rich culture and tradition of the state. During your India tours, you should not miss opportunity to travel in Rajasthan - the land of kings. Apart from Rajasthan Delhi and Agra also draws the tourists from all around the world. Delhi and Agar also provides a glorious opportunity to see and visit several historical monuments. Taj Mahal of Agra, Red Fort & Humayun's Tomb of Delhi are word known. Taj Mahal is one of seven wonders of the wonder and famous for its extraordinary beauty. It is star attractions of the county.

For adventure lovers, wildlife sanctuaries, mountains, etc summon tourists from all around the world. Breathtaking hill stations blessed with amazing natural beauty provide superb ambiance for adventure sports and nature watching. Beaches of Goa and Kerala are major potential of India tourism. If you are interested in spending your holidays on beaches, embark on Goa tours and enjoy fascination of Goa tourism. Apart from Goa, Kerala is also renowned for its breathtaking beaches. During you Kerala tours in India you will have an extraordinary opportunity to see and observe a rare blend of lush green natural beauty and breathtaking breaches. For nature lover, Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttaranchal, etc are also very popular destinations.

Apart form above mentioned attractions of India, there many, more, many more places to see and visit in India. You can too enjoy India tourism when you will be on your India tours. Travel in India and it is sure that tourism in India will grab your heart.

The Impact of India's Economic Growth on Tourism

2009-08-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

Been thinking of the impact of India's economic growth on Tourism? We too!

The developing world has immensely contributed to the economic boost that India is currently enjoying and it's tourism sector has not been left out of the share of profits either- a major achievement for the image of brand India build up by a successful financial system in place in our country.

Some economists credit this fiscal feature of success of Indian financial system to the income generated by the tourism segment, movements across the cross-section of rising business opportunities, agricultural and educational sectors opening up as well as novel and attractive packaging of brand-building for India that have in turn, benefited the travel industry as well. Besides this, strategic planning of excursion packages, eco-tourism, sports events that bring the spot-light on India and greater patronage by greater number of MNC's heading to our shores as well as diversifications of the Indian open industries norm have contributed to the growth of Indian economy and thereby, Indian tourism.

The WTO (World Tourism Organization) reports that as many as 698 million people traveled to a foreign country in 2000, spending over US$ 478 billion while on tour; if India too had a share in these results, then surely the impact of Indian economy as a contributor to rising world economy and its impact on tourism cannot be ignored. More of free spending of disposable incomes, greater markets opening up and better scope for industrialization and earning opportunities have led the way for India's economy to successfully launch the enhanced tourism sector.

What has contributed to the economic growth of India and the tourism sector at large are factors of industrialization, education, higher number of qualified professionals, opening up of foreign markets, liberal trade policies and better advertising and strategic marketing.

The above factors have been collectively responsible for boosting our country's economic reserves and the impact of India's economic growth on tourism is increasingly being felt in specialty sectors like spiritual tourism, spa tourism, student/senior citizen or family vacation plan segments in tourism as well as (surprise, surprise!) adventure tourism! Better amenities and modernization of roads, infrastructure in hotels, local lodging options, accreditation of genuine travel operators and guides etc., training being imparted by government and private sector individuals interested in developing specific regions for tourism promotion and encouraging global gains for India have all been strategized well. These policies put in place after significant contribution from field experts like market watchers, tourism ministry and education and foreign affairs ministry support systems are governed by the needs of tourists visiting India for a certain cultural flavor, yet, not be deprived of comforts, hygiene, security and conveniences that are world-class.

Understanding and fulfilling needs of global tourists for quality vacationing: the kick-off for creditable performance and strong impact of India's economic growth on Tourism

Indian tourism receipts combined with better passenger transport systems and customized food and lodging preferences taken into consideration by exclusive tour operators has meant a niche segment of the country's top travel agencies generating considerable income for their industry. No wonder, as things stand, tourism has become the number one export earner, ahead of automotive products, chemicals, petroleum and food for India and this would not have been possible without the combining of governmental, community and private industry powers through diversification in the economy.

This diversification of economy is a sign of health for India as a developing nation fast emerging as a major player in the tourism sector, which has got a shot in the arm thanks to better management at local and urban levels. The only issue of concern is that should India or any of its major tourism generating regions become dependent for its economic survival upon one industry, it can put major stress upon this sector and its people, who may be compelled to perform well consistently. One solution for easing the burden of India's welcome economic growth off the shoulders of the locals is for our developing country to explore other resources, apart from embracing specialized tourism pockets, as a way to boost the economy.

Manoj Gursahani is the Chairman of India's first ecommerce travel portal- TravelMartIndia.

Visit the blog for more travel related issues, travel tips and destinations

India - Health and Travel

2009-08-25T20:21:00.000-07:00

Medical tourism is a term coined which covers patients traveling across the globe for tourism purposes clubbing their requirements for treatment of acute illness, elective surgeries such as cardiology, hip replacement, knee replacement,etc. The Government is taking serious initiatives in this regards and plans to start overseas marketing of India as a medical tourism destination. The government of India is of the opinion that by marketing India as a global medical tourism destination, it could capitalise on the low-cost, high-quality medical care available in the country.

India, touted as one of the favourite destinations for information technology majors, is currently emerging as the chosen destination for medical or health tourism. The Government of India, State tourism boards, travel agents, tour operators, hotel companies and private sector hospitals are exploring the medical tourism industry for tremendous opportunities. They are seeking to capitalise on the opportunities by combining the country’s popular leisure tourism with medical tourism.

Industry projections?

Statistics estimate that the medical tourism industry in India is currently worth $333 million (Rs 1,500 crore) while a study by CII-McKinsey estimates that the country could well earn Rs 5,000-10,000 crore by the year 2012.

The Indian medical tourism industry, growing at an annualised rate of 30 percent, caters to patients chiefly from the US, Europe and Africa. Although in its nascent stage, the industry is outpacing similar industries of other countries such as Greece, South Africa, Jordan, Malaysia, Philippines and Singapore. In the year 2004, Approx 1,50,000 medical tourists have visited India.

What makes it so attractive?

Primary is the cost factor. The medical costs in India are a fraction of the costs in the US/Europe. For instance, a heart surgery costs $6,000 in India as against $30,000 in the US. Similarly, a bone marrow transplant costs $26,000 in India as compared to $2,50,000 in the US.

Foreign patients throng Indian hospitals to pass up the long waiting lists and queues in their native countries. The NHS patients in UK have to wait for months for Hip/Knee replacements surgery. Indian hospitals provide immediate attention to patients rather than asking them to wait for several months like in most western countries.

India’s top notch private hospitals like Apollo, Fortis, Max HealthCare have gained international recognition for their state-of-the-art facilities and diagnostic centres besides unsurpassed technical skills. Their technology and procedures are state of the art and on par with hospitals in developed nations.

Foreign patients can get attractive package deals including flights, transfers, hotels, treatment and post-operative vacation for their medical visits to India. India has some world class SPAs and Ayurvedic facilities which help recuperation and healing.

Some Top India Hospitals Include Apollo, Fortis, Max Healthcare, Escorts, AIIMs, Wockhardt, etc. A few good Medical tourism providers are TaMedical.com, India4health.com, Mediscapes.com and Indiaheals.com.

With time more and more visitors will flock to this part of the globe for their treatment and relaxtion needs.

Also visit: http://www.indiaheals.com

Phuket - Web Guide To Travel To Phuket Thailand

2009-08-25T08:41:00.001-07:00

Phuket is Thailand's largest island, and is approximately the size of Singapore. Phuket nestles in balmy Andaman Sea waters on Thailand's Indian Ocean coast-line 867 kilometers south of Bangkok.

Phuket is an island connected by bridges to southern Thailand's Andaman Sea coast, in the Indian Ocean, lying between 7' 45 " and 8' 15" north latitude, and from 98' 15" to 98' 40" west longitude on the map. Thailand's largest island, Phuket is surrounded by 32 smaller islands that form part of the same administration, with a total area of 570 square kilometers. Measured at its widest point, Phuket is 21.3 kilometers; at its longest, 48.7 kilometers. It is bounded thus:

About 70 percent of Phuket is mountainous; a western range runs from north to south from which smaller branches derive. The highest peak is Mai Tao Sip Song, or Twelve Canes, at 529 meters, which lies within the boundaries of Tambon Patong, Kathu District (no roads go there yet). The remaining 30 percent of the island, mainly in the center and south, is formed by low plains. Streams include the Klong Bang Yai, Klong Ta Jin, Klong Ta Rua, and Klong Bang Rohng, none of which is large.

History of Phuket

Phuket Island has a long recorded history, and remanins dating back to A.D.1025 indicate that the island's present day name derives in meaning from the Tamil manikram, or crystal mountain. For most of history, however, it was known as Junk Ceylon, which, with variations, is the name found on old maps. The name is thought to have its roots in Ptolemy's Geographia, written by the Alexadrian geographer in the Third Century A.D. He mentioned that in making a trip from Suwannapum to the Malay Peninsula it was necessary to pass the cape of Jang Si Lang.

Phuket was a way station on the route between India and China where seafarers stopped to shelter. The island appears to have been part of the Shivite empire (called in Thai the Tam Porn Ling) that established itself on the Malay Peninsula during the first Millenium A.D. Later, as Muang Takua-Talang, it was part of the Srivichai and Siri Tahm empires. Governed as the eleventh in a constellation of twelve cities, Phuket's emblem, by which it was known to others in those largely pre-literate times, was the dog.

During the Sukothai Period Phuket was associated with Takua Pah in what is now Phang-nga Province, another area with vast tin reserves. The Dutch established a trading post during the Ayuthaya Period in the 16th Cent. The island's northern and central regions then were governed by the Thais, and the southern and western parts were given over to the tin trade, a concession in the hands of foreigners.

After Ayuthaya was sacked by the Burmese in 1767 there was a short interregnum in Thailand, ended by King Taksin, who drove out the Burmese and re-unified the country. The Burmese, however, were anxious to return to the offensive. They outfitted a fleet to raid the southern provinces, and carry off the populations to slavery in Burma. This led to Phuket's most memorable historic event. A passing sea captain, Francis Light, sent word that the Burmese were en route to attack. Forces in Phuket were assembled led by the two heroines, Kunying Jan, wife of Phuket's recently deceased governor, and her sister Mook. After a month's siege the Burmese were forced to depart on 13 March, 1785. Kunying Jan and her sister were credited with the successful defense.

In recognition King Rama I bestowed upon Kunying Jan the honorific Thao Thep Kasatri, a title of nobility usually reserved for royalty, by which she is known today. Her sister became Thao Sri Suntorn.

During the Nineteenth Century Chinese immigrants arrived in such numbers to work the tin mines that the ethnic character of the island's interior became predominantly Chinese, while the coastal settlements remained populated chiefly by Muslim fishermen.

In Rama V's reign, Phuket became the administration center of a group of tin mining provinces called Monton Phuket, and in 1933 with the change in government from absolute monarchy to a parliamentary system, the island was established as a province by itself.

Boundaries

On the North Is the Pak Prah Strait, spanned by two bridges running side-by-side, the older Sarasin Bridge, and the newer Thao Thep Krasatri Bridge.

On the South Is the Andaman Sea.

On the East Is Ao Phang-nga Bay (In the Jurisdiction mainly of Phang-nga Province).

On the West Is the Andaman Sea.

Climate

Phuket's weather conditions are dominated by monsoon winds that blow year round. It is therefore always and humid. There are two distinct seasons, rainy and dry. The rainy season begins in May and lasts till October, during which the monsoon blows from the southwest. The dry season is from November through April, when the monsoon comes from the northeast. Highest average temperatures, at 33.4 degrees Celsius, prevail during March. Lowest averages occur in January, when nightly lows dip to 22 degrees Celsius.

Transportation

By Car

Take Route 4 from Bangkok south. Along the way pass the provinces of Nakorn Pathom, Ratchburi, Petchburi, Prajuab-Kirikan, and at Chumporn go right to Ranong, From Ranong, go south through Kraburi and Kah-Perr districts to Phang-nga Province. In Phang-nga the road passes through Kuraburi, Takua Pa, and Takua Tung districts before reaching the town of Kok Kloy, just beyond which is the Tao Thep Krasatri Bridge and Phuket. Distance is 867 kilometers.

Both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses leave the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok daily. For details call the individual bus companies: Borisat Kohn Sohng Jumkat Phuket Transport Co, Ltd., in Bangkok tel. (02) 4351200, or in Phuket (076) 211480

By Air

Details about flights to and from Phuket International Airport can be obtained from Thai Airway, in Bangkok Tel. (02) 2800070,2800080, or in Phuket (076) 211195, 212499, 212946 or from travel agents around the world. There are also many regular and chartered flights from other airlines.

By Sea

The Deep Sea Port (Port of Phuket) at Phuket is visited by both cargo and cruise ship from Thailand and from abroad. Contact your travel agent for information about the may different ships that stop at Phuket.

Phuket , Thailand , Travel

Share this post :

Honolulu Waikiki & Oahu (Regional Guide)

2009-08-25T03:49:00.001-07:00

Are You Interested in Honolulu Waikiki & Oahu (Regional Guide) I will think This Interesting ,and you can see that

Customer Shopping BuZZ

A Must-Have Guide
My sister-in-law and I used this book daily on our trip to Oahu. We started referring to it as "the Bible"! Lots of info but not overwhelming. Fun tips on how to navigate popular tourist attractions. All information was accurate and up to date for our January 2007 trip. Highly recommended.

Great guide book
I just get back from Oahu for my engagement trip. I can say, all my 7-day trip is on this book, from attractives to restaurants. The informations are accurate and comprehensive. Highly recommended guide book.

Get this guide!
I used this guide along with "Oahu Revealed" and was thoroughly happy with both purchases. This particular guide, while missing color photos, had awesome walking tours and many useful maps. Each area was divided into easy to follow categories such as eating, sleeping and activities. And the reviews are short, but accurate!

Product Description

Cosmopolitan Honolulu and sun-kissed Waikiki offer all visitors - honeymooners, families and adventure-seekers alike - a thick slice of exotic paradise. Beyond the urban bustle lie acres of island splendor: verdant mountains, mammoth surf, secluded campgrounds, cultural gems. This comprehensive insider's guide to O`ahu's best will help you create your perfect Hawaiian getaway. PLAN AHEAD - pre-trip planning information, full-color highlights and suggested itineraries FIND ALOHA `AINA - navigate O`ahu's beaches, trails, and other open-air opportunities with our dedicated outdoors chapter, including expert surfing coverage by a Surfer magazine editor EAT UP, BED DOWN - authoritative, honest and opinionated reviews lead you to the island's top sleeping, eating and nightlife spots CONNECT - in-depth history, culture, environment and food chapters provide insight into the island's people and pulse

List Price: $18.99

Amazon Price: $18.61 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Source From bestsellingbooks2009-20
Cheers and have a GREAT day!
Cheers

Share this post :

Technorati : Honolulu,Waikiki,Oahu,Guide

Frommer's Honolulu, Waikiki & Oahu (Frommer's Complete)

2009-08-25T03:38:00.001-07:00

Share this post :

We are interested in Frommer's Honolulu, Waikiki & Oahu (Frommer's Complete) I make this product appeal to young people

Customer Shopping BuZZ

Great book for Honolulu Waikiki area
We used this book extensively when we were visiting Waikiki. This book is very easy to read and includes pretty much everything you need to know about the area. Accommodations and Dining sections could have been better but overall this is the book you need to take with you if you are going there. We also had "Hidden Oahu" with us but ended up using this book a lot more than "hidden Oahu". If you get this book you won't be dissapointed.

Easy going vacation
I found this book made everything easy to find. Our daughter's wedding was our excuse to visit Oahu for the first time. Frommers made it easy to play tourist and wind our way through the streets of Honolulu without a hitch. Paid for itself many times over for its restaurant ratings alone. I personally give it high high marks for accuracy.

Product Description

You'll never fall into the tourist traps when you travel with Frommer's. It's like having a friend show you around, taking you to the places locals like best. Our expert authors have already gone everywhere you might go--they've done the legwork for you, and they're not afraid to tell it like it is, saving you time and money. No other series offers candid reviews of so many hotels and restaurants in all price ranges. Every Frommer's Travel Guide is up-to-date, with exact prices for everything, dozens of color maps, and exciting coverage of sports, shopping, and nightlife. You'd be lost without us!

Completely up to date, personally researched by local experts, and written in an honest, personal voice, Frommer's Honolulu, Waikiki & Oahu is the premier guide to this fascinating island. It's all here, from an amazingly diverse range of restaurants to the vibrant arts scene. Our candid and in-depth hotel reviews will help you find the perfect place to stay, whether you want a lavish high-rise resort on the sands of Waikiki or an intimate B&B on the remote north shore. No other guide comes close to matching our coverage of the island's best beaches, golf courses, and adventure outings.

List Price: $17.99

Amazon Price: $12.23 & eligible for FREE Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25. Details

Source From bestsellingbooks2009-20
Hope you guys had a great weekend
Cheers

More Artcile By WikiPedia : Waikiki , Beach Vacations