The Travel Maze

Price of Beer in 144 countries

2008-07-15T13:57:00.002-04:00

http://www.pintprice.com/

I though this was important for SOME :o)

Backpack Shopping

2008-07-15T13:54:00.001-04:00

I guess it seems rather self-evident that a backpack is rather useful when you're backpacking. But the question does arise (or at least it did for me) "What kind of backpack should I use?" Well, as with everything else there is no one set answer to this question. When considering the purchase of a backpack you should keep several things in mind:

Your backpack should be comfortable enough to allow you to carry at least 20-30 pounds. When trying out different styles ask the sales person for weights to put inside pack so that you'll have an idea of what 30 pounds feels like on your back.
Your backpack should be proportional to body size (your pack shouldn't be so large that you and couple of your closest friends could fit inside). People under 5'6" inches should try to make sure their backpack in no taller than 22 inches--taller backpacks will hit the back of your head. Try to limit yourself to a pack that is between 2,800-5,000 cubic inches/45-80 Liters, unless you and Godzilla are the same size.
Shop around. Try out as many different styles as you can before you make your decision. In other words, don't buy a pack simply because it comes in your favorite color and don't avoid trying on a pack simple because it isn't aesthetically pleasing. The fashion statement you'll be making with your "stylish" but uncomfortable pack will be one that only masochists will appreciate.
The most expensive backpack is not necessarily the best. Unless you plan to do quite a bit of backpacking over the next twenty years or so, that $300 pack will be a waste of money; many moderately priced packs ($100-$200) will suit your purpose just as well, if not better, than those high priced packs.
If possible, get a pack that you won't have to check in at the airport (size requirements vary, but a good rule of thumb is to make sure L x W x H doesn't add up to more than 45 inches). Not having to waste your time checking and claiming your pack is one of the best things about traveling light.

Packing Philosophy

2008-07-15T13:51:00.001-04:00

Unless you like constant muscle strain and back pain, it is advisable to pack as little and lightly as possible. The saying goes, "Pack everything you think you will need, and get rid of half of it." You can save yourself the bother by writing out a well thought out packing list.

Cell Phones

2008-07-15T13:44:00.000-04:00

Naheed sent me this info:

I know this is early but if any of you want to have an access to a cell phone but not have the $1000 dollar bill when you return you can use this sim card option http://gosim.com/ :)
hope it helps!!

Visa Information

2008-07-15T13:43:00.001-04:00

1. For Schengen visa a personal appearance is required and you must apply in person at the Embassy or Consulate General in whose jurisdiction you reside. And the good thing is that ATLANTA has an embassy...HOORAY!!!

2. Okay, in general, Western Europe has 3 kinds of visas- UK, Schengen and Swiss. So, if we go and ARE GOING to the UK, France AND Switzerland, WE WILL NEED ALL THREE VISAS.

3. No visa is required for Perm Residents for SWISS LINK