Hardcore travel spots

1) Costa rica- tropical bungee – 40 minutes along the Pan American Highway west of the capital, San Jose. You jump over a lush gorge on a no-traffic bridge. Jumps are done Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 2pm. Weekday trips are done with at least 4 persons. Transportation to the bridge costs $7 extra. They have been in business since September 1991.

Bilingual jumpmasters. Bridge (265 ft)

2) Ontario Canada – wilderness tower whitewater – The tower is located over the water of the Ottawa River at our Whitewater Rafting Resort. World-class whitewater rafting and kayak school. Full service resort with camping, cabins, chalets, log homes and cottages for rent. Season from May to September. Locted only 1.5 hour drive from Ottawa.

3) Equipe Adrena- Bungee Brazil -This is probably the tallest Bungee Jump of South America. There is just one taller arround, the one in Costa Rica in wich you jump from a Bridge. We are thinking to arrange jumps from helicopters and from a bridge its not that far (by car) from São Paulo.

4) Near Quito Ecuador- andes adrenaline adventures- This place is awesome, because you can skydive, and bungee jump, for 80$ US you can get 2 bungee jumps, and for a little more you can skydive. its an awesome spot.

5) Cuzco Peru- Hot air Balloon bugee- $40 US approx, A hot air balloon over the Sacsayhuaman Inca ruins. I’m told the jump is approx 100m. Jumps are only done from about 7-10.00am, before the wind picks up. But who wouldnt want to jump out of a hot air balloon, thats awesome!

6) Guatemala- Maya bungee- Maya expiditions. One of the bridges used is over the Rio Dulce river, a lovely tropical river with beautiful view, and the jumper may splash into the water. it super cheap 30$ for a jump, and they have lots of other stuff too, hiking, rock climbing, white water, etc…

7) Chile- Santiago – skydive andes – This is the most epic skydiving experience you will ever have. The best views around, the flight up is insane, and you get dropped at 9,000 feet in one of the most beautiful places around. these gys are good too, most of the skydiving videos you see around are from these guys.

Mexico – La Quebrada Cliffs – A group called the La Quebrada Cliff Divers performs death-defying dives nightly, with torches lighting the rock wall. This is the best cliff diving in the whole world in my mind. Epic height, and crazy adrenaline rush!.

9) Switzerland – Ponte Brolla- This place is best for professionals. World High Diving Federation held their European Cliff Diving Championships here – A very dangerous spot. Have to have juevos to make this jump.

10) Turkey – Corhu River, Class V rapids in May and June, thanks to melting snow in the Pontic Mountains, are run on day trips past ancient ruins and through vast canyons and valleys. This is an extreme run suitable for only die hard whitewater fanatics.

Before taking a tour, here are some questions to ask?

How much does the tour cost? Make sure your getting the value of how much the tour costs. some tours will hike up there prices if there a popular tour, it doesn’t mean its any better than a similiar tour.

What does the price included? Many Tours skip out on certain places you may want to see. always ask what the tour included, to get the best for your enjoyment.

What locations does the tour go? If there is a place you really want to see, by all means dont take a tour that doesn’t go there. Don’t waste you time going places you have no interest in.

How long is the tour? Is it overnight? Some tours can be overnight, and very lengthy. In my experience, always add about an hour or 2 of time to what they say.

What kind of transportation? Some tours are Bus, some Van, some helicopter. Make sure you know exactly what you will be travelling in on the tour. I would hate to take a helicopter ride if im afraid of heights.

Is there admission to certain sights as an additional charge? Some museums and park charge a fee that is not included in the tour, make sure you find out if the tour is hitting these locations.

If the tour doesn’t fill up, will the price increase? In some instances, a tour will not fill up, and you will be charged extra for the empty seats. Not cool when it happens, trust me.

Are there any other costs? Reservation fees, guide fees, Park fees, can sometimes be hidden on certain tours. Be sure to ask.

Is the guide included in the cost? How long has he or she been a guide? The guide may be payed by the tour company, but not always, and they can come at a hefty price. Also be sure to find out how long he or she has been working, because i wouldn’t want a high school kid messing around with his buddies on an expensive tour.

Is it an insightful tour? Cities, Art, History? Make sure its insightful. I can’t tell you how many tours i have been on that i do not learn a thing. It makes it hard to be a memorable experience.

How many tourists will be on the tour? There is nothing worse than a huge crowded tour. It makes more difficult to see the sights and retain information. Keep it small.

How much free time is allowed, e.g. museum, city? Make sure the tour your on allows for some free time to get away from the tour. Hours and hours of the same person giving you info is not fun. If i want to spend an hour staring at the Mona Lisa, or browsing the streets, i should be able to.

Are meals included? The best tours include meals in the price. It is fun to eat the local cuisine, and you will be hungry on a long tour.

Are children allowed on the tour? You may want to take your kids with you, if so, always an important question to ask. You also may not want screaming kiddos running around ruining your tour. To each his own, your choice.

Is smoking allowed? Some people hate smoking, and some may need a drag in the middle of the tour. Always ask. In my experience, most tours allow smoking.

Are optional private tours allowed? how much? You may want to take a private tour to a certain place, if so, ask. they may cost more, or not even have them.

Is there a refund if i cancel? I can’t emphasize enought how important this question is. Something may happen where you cannot go on the tour, it would be nice to get your money back.

Are prices lower for off season tours? In the off season tours can be more inexpensive due to weather, tourist times, non holidays. Do the research and ask.

Is insurance included?Something may go wrong on the tour, God Forbid, but it does happen. Never take a tour that doesn’t let you buy some sort of insurance.

Do you take credit cards? Credit Card companies can help you resolve any problems you may have with the tour company after the tour. It also shows the tour company is well established.

How long have you been in buisness? Never take a tour from a company that has just started. You never know what your going to get when you take that chance. Stick with the oldest tour companies.

BE INFORMED!

Tip 1 – The Scuffle Pickpocket. Assume beggars and pickpockets use distractions such as a scuffle or fight to take your belongings. If you stop for any commotion or fight, put your hands in your pockets before the theives do. Theives will set up these scams regularly on the busiest streets. For Example, i was walking down the streets of Barcelona when i saw a women being, what looked like, attacked by a mugger, she yelled for the police, a man dressed in a police uniform came over and tackled the man gave her the purse she lost back. Little did i know, half the large crowd watching were losing there wallets. The so called cop, women and mugger, were all in on the pickpocket scam. The good news is you can avoid such scams. Most Pickpockets look like well dressed buisnessmen. Some pose as tourists with backpacks, and cameras. Best bet, is to always wear a money belt.

Tip 2 – Street games. Avoid playing any street games with the vendors. Many places in other countries have street vendors with games and magical tricks that are designed to take your cash. I think we have all seen the “find the ball in the cup game”. You Pay to guess where the ball will end up in the cups. You can be sure that the players are all being scammed, and the winners are set up by the theives. You will only be throwing your money away. Another subtle scam is that of the street performers/magicians. These theives are trained in the art of dissaperaing money. Stear clear of performers, cuz you will walk away with no money in your wallet.

Tip 3 – Taxi Cab – This can be the most rampant scam in other countries. Many taxi drivers overcharge tourists for a taxi ride. Sometimes they will drop a big bill, and grab a smaller bill, and say you underpayed. They will charge you night rates on the meter, and expect gratuity, even in the day. To decrease your odds of getting ripped off, try looking for Taxis at Hotels and make sure they have a phone number for you to call. You can always agree on a price, without even running the meter. This helps for no confusion later. If the cabbie wont give you a ride for your price, get out and leave, most cabbies will want your buisness and say ok.

Tip 4 – Police scam – Many Police in other countries use there power to take the cash of tourists. They will ask to search your belongings for drugs, or your wallet for counterfeit money. When really all they are doing is taking your stuff. Also beware of fake cops, they will flash there counterfeit badges, and do the same routine. A good rule is, just because someone looks official it doesnt mean they are. Dont let the gun, badge, and uniform fool you.

Tip 5 – Be Alert – Whenever cash is involved in traveling, always stay alert. the theives want you to be distracted. Whether your on a train, in a hotel, or just roaming the streets, etc… Always be on the lookout for something to get taken. Never open your door to anyone in a hotel. Never make good friends with someone on a train, who is just feeding to get your information. When at a Bank, always go in, and dont use the ATM. Be careful once inside the bank, never give more info than you need to. The word NO is known in most of the world, and its a powerful word that gets people off your back.

The world is generally not a dangerous place, but always be aware that theives want to seperate you from your money and belongings no mater where you go. Don’t let it ruin your trip, by all means enjoy your travels.
]]> http://www.gustey.com/beware-of-travel-scams/feed 0 http://www.gustey.com/the-best-places-to-find-a-toilet http://www.gustey.com/the-best-places-to-find-a-toilet#comments Tue, 18 May 2010 02:13:25 +0000 gustey http://www.gustey.com/?p=141 When traveling to a foreign land, travelers always have great bathroom stories. Some Hilarious, some traumatic, and some, that just want to make you stay at home. Most of the stories told are about how gross and disgusting the toilets are around the world. Some places if you can even find one, your a virtual Sherlock Holmes. We are spoiled as Americans with our thrones to sit on, we are the minority throughout the world when it comes to our toilets. I have put together some places you wont want to miss, if your a full bladder tourist, and some of the quircky things people use to take a crap.

Places to find Toilets abroad

Museums – If you plan on visiting any museums while your abroad, go to the John, while your there. If you dont plan on visiting one, it might be worth waiting in line for one, just to go to the bathroom. You might miss your chance for usually a fairly nice bathroom.

Public buildings – look for department stores, government buildings, libraries, etc…You may not find these bathrooms to be up to your taste, but at least its a place to go. never leave one of these places without taking advantage of an actual bathroom.

Restaurants – You can always sneak into restraunts in foreign cities to make use of there bathrooms. Pretend like your a customer, and they will let you use there fairly clean toilets. Even walk into a cafe and politely ask if you can use the toilet, Most countries will allow it.

Hotels – Take advantage of your hotel bathroom. These bathrooms are typically the nicest in most countries. If your not staying in a hotel, just walk right into the hotel lobby, where you will find one. Many Hotels in other countries have very old architecure and beauty, so just walking in them can be a great site seeing experience.

Trains – Thank God Trains have Bathrooms. Some of the train rides you take in other countries can be epically long. Most Train bathrooms are terrible, and they make airline bathrooms look like a luxury, but when you have to go you have to go.

Back Alleys – If worst comes to worst, you can always use a back alley, Just watch out for mice and rats. Oh and ya the cops. They dont like when you take a piss on the side of one of there buildings, But i have done it, and it works in an emergency.

Or go Old School

Squat and aim… – seriously MOST of the world, just squats and aims, nasty i know. I like to just call it a hole and not a toilet. a smell that could gag a maggot. No Toilet Paper- WHAT? Many countries don’t use TP. I know Crazy, but true. What they use varies, but i would always carry some TP if travelling to a 3rd world country. There are millions of people in the world that just use there hand. yuck, Vomit. They never eat lefthanded. so gross! Flush – There is no such thing as flushing in some countries. If you come across a trash can full of soiled paper, not random. Its something your going to have to get used to in some remote places. Nasty! Be prepared. Don’t get grossed out, it is a duty of man that we all must face.

Toilet Iphone App

A great APP for finding toilets abroad is SitorSquat by Charmin. If you have an iphone you can find restrooms all over the world. For those who don’t have an iphone use the frommers as toilet paper.. because it won’t help you here.

Tips to Overcome Language Barriers

- Avoid using slang. America has so much slang that we use, we don’t realize how much we do. A person in Europe and Asia is not going to understand “wassup?” “Howzit goin?” “this place is sick” They dont even understand regular American words, like bathroom, hello, pizza etc… be careful. Bring a pocket sized dictionary for the region your visiting, it can help.

- Use World words. Have you ever been traveling abroad, and you get a blank stare when you say something simple? There are some words that are generally used all around the world. For example, Bathroom or rest room, is not used. The word Toilet is better understood, and simpler. Trust me, you’ll find the relief your bladder needs. When asking a question, don’t use full sentences, one word is better. For example, “can you take our picture please?” easily understood as “photo?” Instead of saying vacation, say Holiday.

- speak slowly. If you have to pronounce the words like a moron, do it. People in other countries tend to read your lips, so pronouncing in a slow manner helps. Pronounce every letter of the word. Its difficult to get the hang of this one, because as Americans we tend to speak loud and fast. Assume your dealing with a 3 yr old just beginning to speak.

- Actions speak louder than words. moving around, pointing, acting out what your trying to say, does wonders. If i want food, i simply move my arm to my mouth, and pretend im eating. If i need a place to sleep for the night, i fold my hands put them up to my ear and close my eyes. Use your imagination, and act goofy. If your self concious, than world travel might not be for you. Have fun with it.

- Make an educated guess. Try and Figure it out. Many words in foreign countries come from the Latin origin, just like English. Read signs, newspapers, posters, espicially if they have English on them as well. Practice your understanding. With a pocket dictionary and commen sense, the average person can figure out some important words. Most major European languages relate to English through Latin.

- Write stuff down. Take a pad of paper with you. Writing important words you see around the country can help immensley. Anything you see in the local language, that is relevant to your daily task. Also drawing a simple picture or address can be very helpful. Its much easier to understand a drawing than a mispronounced word.
]]> http://www.gustey.com/communicating-through-language-barriers/feed 0 http://www.gustey.com/tips-to-staying-healthy-when-you-travel-abroad http://www.gustey.com/tips-to-staying-healthy-when-you-travel-abroad#comments Fri, 14 May 2010 20:03:26 +0000 gustey http://www.gustey.com/?p=133 Some people wonder where they can find tips on keeping healthy when they travel abroad. I have put together some information i think could be useful to world travelers. Tips that help prevent disease and sickness, which can be prevelent in a foreign country. Make sure your careful when it comes to getting really sick abroad. There are health hazards out there, trust me.

Healthy Travel Tips

tip 1 – I think everyone knows this one, drinking the water in a foreign country is very dangerous. AVOID it. The filtration systems are terrible, if any at all. You can get terrible diherrea, and vomiting. Try drinking bottled water, or boil some water before drinking, Don’t drink anything with ice in it, because the ice comes from the same place as the water. Also try soft drinks or beer in a can, just make sure to wipe the top of the can before taking a sip. Even accidentally swallowing some water in the shower can make you sick.

tip 2 – Foods can also be a way to get sick. Avoid raw foods. Many countries dont cook there food like we do in America. Avoid fish and meats, they can often be undercooked, and have parasites. Salmonila and Ecoli are common. Less is more when ordering dishes from around the world. Stick with bread and things cooked in boiling water. If you have food allergies, learn how to say them in the language of the country you are visiting.

tip 3 – Get VACCINATED, try and find out what kind of diseases are common in the area you are visiting. Find out what you need to get before you enter the country. Exposure to certain diseases can kill you. Take your vaccination early incase you have an adverse reaction. Bring health information with you for the region your visiting, it may help you avoid certain foods, and regions where disease is common. Even get vaccinated when you get back from your trip for recovery time.
]]> http://www.gustey.com/tips-to-staying-healthy-when-you-travel-abroad/feed 0 http://www.gustey.com/top-usa-hospitals-source-usnews http://www.gustey.com/top-usa-hospitals-source-usnews#comments Tue, 27 Apr 2010 03:43:20 +0000 gustey http://www.gustey.com/?p=78 Over the past few days i have been doing a lot of online research for the best Hospitals in the U.S. I found many sites, so i decided to make a list of the best ones. These Hospitals are the best, and i have mentioned which fields they are ranked for. When your really sick (hopefully not, knock on wood) choose one of these places for the BEST care.

Top USA Hospitals

1) Jon Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore Maryland
they rank #1 for Urology, Rheumatology, Gynecology, and ear nose and throat. and there ranked 2nd in geriatric care, Neurology & Neurosurgery, ophthamology, and Psychiatry.

2) Mayo Clinic, Roshester, Minn
They rank #1 in Diabetes/endocrine disorders, Digestive disorders, Neurology & Neurosurgery, and orthopedics. They are also top 3 in heart and heart surgery, kidney disorders, and urology.

3) Ronald Regan UCLA medical center, Los Angeles
The UCLA Medical center is ranked in the top 5 in pretty much everything. some of there best attributes are Geriatric care, Psychiatry, and Urology.

4) Cleveland clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
the Clinic is the best of the best when it come to the Heart. They are well known for there Heart surgery/Cardiology, as well as Digestive disorders and Orthopedics.

5) Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston
Top 5 for good reason, they rank very high in many specialty medical disorders. they are #1 in Psychiatry, and one of the tops in Cancer research.

6) New York Presbyterian University Hospital of Columbia and Cornell.
They have a great Childrens hospital, that ranks high among the best, they are well known for there Diabetes/endocrine disorder clinic, and Neurosurgery.

7) University of California, San Fransisco Medical center
One of the top Hospitals in California and the US. They are big in Community outreach, and it shows, they have one of the biggest facilities, with a center for pretty much every disesase under the sun.

Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
The 3rd best hospital for ear nose and throat, and one of the best rehabilitation facilities in the U.S. One of the top Heart surgeons in the country was asked what hospital would he most like to work for, and he chose Univ. Of Penn. Hospital.

9) University of Washington medical center, Seattle
They have the Best Rehabilitation facility onm the planet, and are huge in cancer research, and cancer patient care. One of the nicest facilities you will ever see.

10) Duke University Medical center, Durham N.C.
rounding off the top 10 with good reason, one of the top 4 in Gynecology, and geriatric care. They aso have a great childrens hospital, with a gear toward pediatric cancer.
]]> http://www.gustey.com/top-usa-hospitals-source-usnews/feed 0 http://www.gustey.com/best-family-friendly-airlines http://www.gustey.com/best-family-friendly-airlines#comments Sun, 25 Apr 2010 03:46:25 +0000 gustey http://www.gustey.com/?p=86 If you have young children, these are the best Airlines that provide family friendly service. They make your trip with the kids more enjoyable.

Family Friendly Airlines

Horizon/Alaska – provides family preboarding, top notch kids entertainment, child meals, and activity books. you can also order DVD players for the kids

Air France – families board before first class passengers, in-flight kids channel, baby food and nappies are available. Best thing is, Parents get free champagne.

Virgin America – They have Cartoon Network, Disney channel, and Warner Bros. on the backs of the seats to keep the kids entertained for hours.

Lufthansa Airways – Toys for the kids, baby food, they will heat a bottle if you ask. You can check your bags the night before you fly, for quick easy access to the terminal.

Emirates – When you fly, ask for the mommy bag, its a backpack full of goodies just for mom and kids. They also have 100’s of channels for cartoons and movies for your tiny tots.

TIPS : Call the airline before you book your flight to see what they have to offer. Airlines often offer bassinettes for kids under 6 months. Some airlines supply food, and airline staff may be willing to warm food and baby bottles.

TIPS : At the time of booking, make sure you confirm that you have an infant, and you need certain ameneties, and when booking by phone, write down the name of the agent that gives you the information.

TIPS : Make sure you arrive at the airport early to have a better chance of getting the best available seats. Its better to try to book your seats in advance.

TIPS : when pushing a stroller through the airport, ask the airline to check your baby stroller, most airlines will be happy to do so, and they will bring it to you when you reach the baggage claim. Some airlines may even bring it to you on the airbridge as soon as you get off the plane.
]]> http://www.gustey.com/best-family-friendly-airlines/feed 0 http://www.gustey.com/best-family-vacation-spots-in-the-us http://www.gustey.com/best-family-vacation-spots-in-the-us#comments Fri, 23 Apr 2010 03:52:53 +0000 gustey http://www.gustey.com/?p=90
Orlando FL- With Disney World, Universal Orlando, and water parks, it makes Orlando the theme park capital of the world. they have amazing family friendly hotels, like the Nickelodeon, and Disney. A great Family spot, to keep you busy for hours of fun.

Hershey PA – “Chocolate town USA” home of the hershey bar, and Hershey park, one of the top theme parks in the country. This place has everything chocolate, from the family friendly hotels, to the hershey headquarters visitors center. The kids will love the chocolate and the fun.

Cancun Mexico – some of the top resorts in the world, beautiful beaches and water parks. Any family will be busy in this place. Amusment parks, snorkling, aquariums, and just lounging at the pool and beaches. Cancun takes kid activities to a whole new level.

Wisconson Dells – Above and beyond when it comes to water parks. Over 20 resorts with indoor waterparks. Mom and Dad can relax by the many pools, while the kids go down the waterslides. Very Family friendly and affordable. Try to go in the summertime.

Anaheim CA – All of southern CA for that matter. Not only do you have Disneyland in the heart of Anaheim, within a couple hrs, you can be at Universal studios, Legoland, and the LA zoo. Great Family vacation spot. The Magic Kingdom of convenience.

Arizona – with the likes of the Grand Canyon and route 66, Arizona has much to offer families looking for a scenic vacation. If your kids like the Wild West, it still exists here. Dude ranches, and family friendly cowboy like resorts. You can also white water raft, or rent a houseboat on Arizonas lake Powell.

Oahu HI – Waikiki beach is a hot spot for families, with surf lessons, swim with the dolphins, snorkel, and boat trips. 5 star hotels and beaches make this tropical location a beautiful family vacation. There is plenty to do on this island.

It is a short list but a good one. Gustey loves all of these destinations and will continue to visit!
]]> http://www.gustey.com/best-family-vacation-spots-in-the-us/feed 2 http://www.gustey.com/countries-with-the-best-hospitals http://www.gustey.com/countries-with-the-best-hospitals#comments Wed, 21 Apr 2010 03:25:38 +0000 gustey http://www.gustey.com/?p=65 Are you planning on travelling to the far corners of the earth, or retiring on a secluded island. Wherever you are, wouldn’t you like to know what kind of health care you can get. These Hospitals are the best of the best on the planet. The U.S. has the top 25, Hell yeah! but these are the best other than the U.S.

Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital – Mahidol University, Bangkok Thailand

The Institute of Medical Science University of Tokyo – Tokyo Japan

Taipei Veterans General Hospital – Taipei, Taiwan

Center Hospital, University of Lausanne – Switzerland

The Institute of Cancer Research Royal Cancer Hospital, England

University of Marburg Hospital, Germany

Centre Hospital, University of Lyon, France

University Medicine, Martin Luther University Halle Wittenburg, Germany

Eberhard Karls university Hospital, Tubigen Germany

INCA National Institute of cancer research and Hospital, Brazil

National cancer center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan