Photography Tips While Traveling

Whether you’re embarking on a family vacation or your family reunion, it’s going to be a special time. When we think of trips we’ve taken, we tend to remember them best with photographs. Here’s some ideas to enhance your vacation as well as your memories of them.

Location Preparation

1) Since you know where you’re going (that's a minimum requirement), doesn’t it make sense to check out the location before you get there? Create a list of attractions, accommodations, special points of interest, amusement areas, shopping, etc. A good source to help you do this is: the Places and Travel section of msn.com ( http://groups.msn.com/Browse?CatId=179)

2) Figure out the photo opportunities for each appropriate venue. Anyone can take a “that’s nice” picture of the kids at an amusement park. Wouldn’t you rather capture a “WOW” photo that could be hung over the mantle?

3) Depending on the location you’re traveling to, you can see what books are written about them that highlight the best photo opportunities for the entire area

4) If you’re cyber-savvy, start at www.google.com and search using different combinations of: your destination, best photography locations, for images of the location, scenic spots, etc. The options are endless.

5) If you’re off to a non-big city area, scout out the national parks in the area. The great thing about national parks is that the scenery is usually so breathtaking, that a so-so shot looks outstanding, just because of the subject. Once in www.nps.gov, do a search on photos and you will be presented with terrific shots of all the parks

Photography Preparation

OK, you’re either traveling through or you’re at a wonderful location full of photo opportunities. You began this leg of your trip at the crack of dawn and as you’re pulling into the most scenic overlook for 400 miles, the sun is just starting to crack the horizon.

You instinctively pull the car over, grab your camera and your tripod, and look for the best spot to set up. Just one tiny little problem… YOU FORGOT YOUR TRIPOD! Rather than smack yourself on the forehead then, why not plan these things now, before you leave?

Your list should include AT LEAST the following consideration…

1) Do I need to repeat – BRING YOUR TRIPOD? It doesn’t take up much room, and as explained at www.best-family-photography-tips.com/tripod-photography.html, tripods allow you to capture entirely new categories of photographs that won’t be possible without one

2) Memory. Of course, bring all the memory you have, but also pack your portable storage device (explained at http://www.best-family-photography-tips.com/digital-photography-tutorial.html)

3) If your camera has a hot shoe, bring your external flash, and any additional equipment that can be used to help with bounce flash

4) Remember your external shutter release cable for those long exposures. How else are you going to get that “angel-hair” look of the waterfalls?

5) Don’t forget the basics like: batteries, battery charger, camera bag, and additional lenses and filters (if applicable on your camera)

6) And just in case you need it, bring the manuals for your equipment.

Finally, don’t get so wrapped up in taking perfect shots that you don’t enjoy the trip. Remember to use the tripod so that you'll be in at least some of the photos.

Popular Methods Of Travel

If you are interested in taking a summer vacation, there are a number of decisions that you will have to make. The decision most often thought about is your summer vacation destination. Some individuals and families spend days, even weeks, selecting the perfect summer vacation destination. While choosing a destination is important, so is deciding how you will get there.

In the United States and overseas, there are a large number of different travel methods. Each of these methods could be used to assist you in getting to your next summer vacation destination. To determine which method of travel is best for your needs, you are encouraged to closely examine each method.

One of the most popular methods for summer vacation travel is the road. A large number of individuals and families make the decision to drive to wherever they are going. It is often thought that air travel is the most popular; however, it is usually not. If you are interested in driving yourself and your family to your vacation destination, there are a number of important factors that you should first consider. Those factors are likely to include the cost of travel.

Currently, in the United States, there is a growing concern with the rising cost of gasoline. For years now, summer travel has often meant an increase in the price of gasoline. Before deciding to drive to your next summer vacation destination, you are encouraged to determine the estimated cost of gasoline. There are many families who find that the cost of gasoline is often not worth the trip.

In addition to the cost of gasoline, the wear and tear of your vehicle should be considered. The longer the distance of travel, the more your car is likely to depreciate in value. There are many individuals who mistakenly assume that there is no connection between a family vacation and the value of the family car. When a car generates excessive miles, the value of the car will decrease. This value is important when trying to resell your vehicle or offer it as a trade-in.

If you find that the traveling on the road is not a viable travel option, you may want to consider air travel. Air travel is almost as popular as road travel. A large number of individuals and families travel the skies to make it to their next summer vacation destination. With thousands of flights taking off each day, it is likely that you could find multiple flights that will allow you to arrive right at your vacation destination.

If you decide on air travel, you may want to search for online discounts. In addition to traditional airline discounts, there are many popular vacation resorts that partner with particular airlines. By booking airplane reservations, you may be able to receive significant discounts to popular hotels or restaurants while on vacation. When using an airplane to get to your destination, you will arrive quicker than any other travel method.

Air travel is often considered the most preferred method of travel; however, a large number of individuals are unable to afford tickets. The price of gasoline has not only affected the cost of driving your vehicle, but the cost of purchasing an airline ticket, as well. There are many individuals who mistakenly believe that if they are unable to drive themselves or book airline reservations, they will be unable to take a vacation. This is simply not true. There are a number of other travel methods that can be used to reach your next vacation destination.
Train travel and bus travel may help you reach your vacation destination. While they may not be considered the most glamorous methods of travel, they are often considered the cheapest. There are a large number of passenger trains and buses that depart from the Untied States, and other areas of the world, on a daily basis. It may take you longer to reach your anticipated destination, but tickets are almost always affordable.

Understanding your travel options is the best way to plan your summer vacation. You can select the perfect vacation destination, but if your method of travel is unpleasant, your vacation could be ruined. With a little bit of research and decision making, you should be able to find the perfect way to arrive in style at your next summer vacation destination.

International Air Travel Rules

Everyday, in the United States, a large number of individuals, couples, and families travel by way of an airplane. Out of all of those travelers, a decent number of them are traveling overseas or to a foreign country. As international travel continues to increase in popularity, it is likely that the numbers will continue to rise. In fact, there is even a good chance that you may make the decision to travel to another country. If so, it is advised that you famialrize yourself with the international air travel rules.

When it comes to international air travel rules, there are many travelers who automatically get confused. This is because not many people know that the rules for international air travel are different than the rules for domestic air travel. In reality, they aren’t exactly the same, but they aren’t that much different either. Despite the similarities, it is still advised that you place a focus on international air travel, especially since you will be traveling internationally.

As previously mentioned, you will find that a number of the air travel rules are similar between domestic and international travel. One of those rules is the airport screening process. In all airports, even if they are not classified as an international airport, passengers will need to pass through the appropriate airport security checkpoints. This screening process includes the close examination of your checked baggage. Unlike in the past, now almost all airlines thoroughly inspect checked baggage looking for explosive, flammable, or illegal items.

Since a large number of international airports not only offer international flights, but domestic flights as well, intentional passengers are not always separated from domestic ones. Essentially, this means that the passenger screening procedures, as well as the screening for all luggage will be the same. All flyers are advised to remove any of their accessories, which may set of the metal detectors, as well as their shoes. Your shoes will be sent through the x-ray machine. This is done to ensure that there are not explosives or other dangerous materials hidden in them.

One of the few differences that you will see, between domestic air travel and international air travel, has to do with the first check-in. When you first arrive at the airport, you will need to approach the airline counter to register yourself. This is also where your checked luggage will be examined and processed for the trip. On domestic flights, passengers only need to supply a picture id. This identification is usually a government issued identification card or a driver’s license. If you are planning on traveling internationally, you will need to supply additional proof of identification.

The proofs of identification that you will need will all depend on the airport in which you are leaving from and the airport that you will be arriving at. If you are required to show more than a picture id, you may need to bring your birth certificate, your passport, your visa, or your certificate of citizenship. Although your first impulse may be to bring them all, just incase, you will want to refrain from doing so. Unless absolutely necessarily, you will want to keep these important personal documents safe at home.

The above mentioned international air travel rules and procedures are just a few of the many that you may be required to follow. If and when you are unsure about a particular rule, it is advised that you seek professional assistance. That assistance should either come directly from an international airport or an international airline.

Purchasing Cheap Travel Insurance Before You Go Backpacking

When most people think of going backpacking, they think of adventure, excitement, fun and just an overall great experience. All of these things are true, however, even though we do not like to think of any negative side to backpacking, we must take certain precautions. You never know when something terrible could happen so you should really consider purchasing cheap travel insurance before you go backpacking, just in case. I am not trying to put a damper on things by talking about anything negative but this is really something serious that people should consider, seriously. This is a very smart idea and if you do not take the time and money out to complete this before you go, you could end up being very sorry, in case an accident does occur while you are away on your backpacking vacation.

There are actual travel insurance policies for people that do go backpacking so you need to sit down and think about this, so that the next time you decide to go backpacking, you can go take care of this before heading out. It will really be worth your time and money just in case something does go wrong while you are traveling to your destination. None of us expect anything bad to happen but unfortunately it does and it is out of our hands most of the times but being prepared for something such as this is possible simply by purchasing some insurance before you leave, BEFORE you leave I say! For something such as this, you should be able to purchase it for a fairly inexpensive amount of money, but make sure that you check around at different locations before choosing exactly which one to go with for your insurance. Insurance for your traveling experience will give you that peace of mind in knowing that you are protected just in case anything does occur. As they say, "it is better to be safe than sorry!" You will be so glad that you did this.

Getting on the internet is a quick and easy way to retain any type of information and would be very helpful in getting you the proper information that can help you to locate many different insurance companies that can help you out and give you just what you need for your traveling experience. Backpacking is an awesomely amazing experience, filled with joy, happiness, fun, adventures, excitement, thrills and beauty, so do not hesitate about going, in fear of something going wrong but do prepare yourself, as I have already mentioned. I can not say it enough people, it does not cost that much and it is worth it ok! You could find more reasonable priced insurance companies over the internet as well, just totally make sure that they are a reputable company before giving them any kind of personal information about yourself or banking and credit card information. One must always be cautious when purchasing anything, especially over the internet.

Sailing In St. Thomas

When selecting a vacation destination, many individuals and families select a destination that offers them excitement and relaxation, all at once. If this is what you are looking for out of your vacation, then a St. Thomas vacation may be just for you.

St. Thomas is located in the Caribbean. As one of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas is known as one of the “hottest,” vacation destinations in the world. If you have never had the pleasure of vacationing in St. Thomas before, you may be wondering what awaits you there. In St. Thomas, there are an unlimited number of services and activities that you may find exciting. One of those activities is sailing.

The ocean waters surrounding St. Thomas are ideal for sailing. Beginners and even the most experienced sailors can enjoy sailing in the St. Thomas area. Since most individuals vacationing in St. Thomas fly into the area, you will have to find boat rentals. When renting a sail boat, it is likely that you will have a number of different options. Sail boats come in all different shapes, sizes, styles, and designs.

Before planning an independent sail off the coast of St. Thomas, you may need to take a number of important factors into consideration. One of these factors is your level of sailing experience. Many of the individuals and companies that provide boat rentals require that you have the appropriate level of sailing experience. You may be required to take sail boat for a test drive or you may need to show documents that show you are licensed to operate a sail boat. Many individuals and companies do this to protect their investments.

To make arrangement to rent a sail boat, it is advised that you make your reservations ahead of time. Sailing is a popular vacation pastime in St. Thomas. To guarantee that you are able to have access to an available boat, you will want to make your boat rental reservations well in advance. You can easily learn of boat rentals that can be found in or around the St. Thomas area by requesting a St. Thomas vacation packet. Your local travel agent may also be able to offer you assistance.

While sailing is an activity that is enjoyed by many, most individuals are unable to operate a sail boat. Just because you do not know how to operate a sail boat, does not mean that you cannot vacation on the waters surrounding St. Thomas. Throughout the area, you should be able to find multiple companies that offer guided sail boat rentals. In addition to paying for the boat rental, you will be provided with an experienced sailor who can take you on voyage that you will forever remember.

Sailing on the water surrounding St. Thomas is an exciting experience all on its own, but that is not the only thing you can do while on the water. While sailing on the water, you may be surprised with what you will find and see. A sail boat is a great way to vacation on the water, but sightsee as well. Scuba diving and snorkeling are also fun activities that can be combined with sailing. If you are with an experienced sailor who also is a trained scuba diver, you may be able to enjoy these two amazing activities all at once.

When you are searching for sail boat rentals, you may want to consider what the resort you plan on staying at has to offer. If you are vacationing at an all-inclusive St. Thomas resort, you may find that you are able to receive free sail boat tours. These free rides are not offered in all vacation packages, but may be able to save a large amount of money if they are.

Whether you plan on sailing yourself or you are using the services of an experienced sailor, you will be sure to enjoy your time on the water. Activities found on the St. Thomas Island are not limited. You can easily find an number of activities, many of which will be what your heart desires.

Honeymooning In Mexico City

Mexico is known for its pristine waters, pure white sand beaches, perfect tropical temperatures, and rich culture. These are the reasons why many people choose to honeymoon in Mexico.

Whether you choose a Mexican honeymoon cruise or luxury resort, a Mexican honeymoon can be filled with romance. A growing trend is to plan a Mexican wedding as well. Through the services of a professional wedding planner, you can plan for a complete package. This package often includes the wedding service followed by a honeymoon. With some of the most popular resort locations in the world, Mexico offers a wide range of options for those who are looking for the perfect honeymoon destination.

A Mexican cruise is perfect for a wedding, as well as a honeymoon. You can plan for an adventurous and exciting luxury cruise ship wedding followed by your honeymoon. There are many advantages to a luxury cruise ship wedding, such as cost and ease of planning. The cruise ship may handle the wedding preparations, as well as the details. You can find different cruise ship weddings by contacting any of the large cruise ship lines. You will more than likely discover that the only downfall to a cruise ship wedding in Mexico is trying to persuade your friends and family members to join you for the wedding.

Choosing a honeymoon package in Mexico can consist of a cruise or a luxury resort. With so many wonderful places to choose from, it may be a difficult decision to make. You should carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of each package to help make your decision easier. First choosing your honeymoon location may help make the decision easier. Considering what type of activities you would like to participate in during your honeymoon is the best way to make the perfect choice. You will also want to consider anything special attractions that you may wish to see.

Of course, no matter which type of honeymoon you plan, cost will play an important role in your decision. While examining costs, you may be surprised to find that there are number of affordable packages available for both cruise ships and luxury resorts. With price comparison, the use of the internet, and your local travel agent, you can find a package that will meet your budget and all of your honeymoon expectations.

Top honeymoon destinations, in Mexico, include Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel, Cancun, and Cabo San Lucas. Acapulco is one of Mexico’s top honeymoon locations. It is very similar to Hawaii with its beautiful beaches and turquoise blue waters. Puerto Vallarta is still one of the world’s top tourist attractions. Fortunately, it is also considered one of the lesser populated areas in Mexico. Puerto Vallarta can provide you with a wonderful environment for your honeymoon. With cultural events, fine dining, and the beautiful Sierra Madre Mountains, you are sure to enjoy your stay.

Another top honeymoon location is Cozumel. If you are looking for a secluded deserted island to spend with your new spouse, you should consider honeymooning in Cozumel. You may feel as if you are the only couple on the island. From Mayan ruins, to the majestic Nichupte Lagoon, Cozumel is a feast for the eyes.

As previously stated, selecting a honeymoon destination in Mexico may seem like a difficult decision. By taking the time to compare of all your options, including the cost of each, you are sure to find the best Mexican destination for your honeymoon.