This is even more relevant when it comes to using one when you are planning to travel around the world. Why is this the case you may ask?

Well simply put – you want your money to stretch as far as possible.

Nowadays with the advancement of technology there are many options available when it comes to money management.

Most banks charge a conversion fee for using your money in another country. Think of this as the price of doing business. You will also be charged a cash advance fee if you go over your limit, so bear this in mind.

If you look to switch bank accounts then you should try and go with a current account with whichever provider you choose. A current account will give you the most flexibility while abroad.

Ask your provider any questions you may have, and make sure that it will be accepted in all the countries that you intend on travelling to. Learn about the transactions rates and different exchange rates.

All the reliable providers such as Halifax bank will give you as much information as you require, as they understand all the concerns that you may have.

Probably the biggest factor in your decision of choosing a bank, will be whether or not they have online banking as part of their service. The advantages of online banking cannot be over estimated. You no longer need to physically go to a bank in order to manage and enquire about your money. Everything is available to you online.

You need to ensure that they provide a full online service. This is the main ingredient that backpackers look for when picking a bank to hold their money. Also, try and find out how secure their technology is. Obviously you don’t want any breaches of security when it comes to your money. But nowadays, banks are on the ball and they know how to protect their customers against potential fraud.

Ask the bank if you can get a second(spare) ATM card issued. This will give you some protection on the off chance that you lose or have your card stolen.

In some cases, it may be better to use your credit card for withdrawing money from a local ATM, but you’ll have to enquire with your bank about which is more expensive.

By planning out a few things here and there, you’ll be able to figure out quite easily which bank is the best fit for you.

What is the London to Paris Bike Ride?

The London to Paris Bike Ride is a 5 day charity cycle that offers an amazingly unique and challenging experience to all participants. Participants are able to select a charity of their choice (the organizers work with over 500 charities, and are always creating new partnerships), raise money for their chosen charity, and then carry out the almost 500km bike ride from London to Paris. The route is organized in a way that makes sure participants will see as much of the beautiful countryside as possible and it passes important landmarks such as World War I battlefields, historic towns, and gothic churches.

Who can participate in the London to Paris Bike Ride?

The minimum age to participate is 18. There is no age maximum, though those over age 65 are asked to get a medical form signed by their doctor. You do not need to be a professional cyclist to join the challenge! The majority of participants are of average fitness level, and are simply looking for a healthy way to meet new people, challenge themselves, and raise money for a cause that is close to their heart. Support vehicles are always nearby to help out, and will make sure no one gets left behind! If you are a vegetarian, or have any dietary restrictions, don’t worry! Meals can be catered to accommodate any special needs. All participants are asked to raise a minimum of £1,450 for their selected charity in order to take part in the challenge, and there is an additional £99 deposit required. Organizers will provide guidance to help you meet your fundraising goal.

What do I need?

Naturally, you will need a bike. While renting a bike is always a possibility, it is suggested that you use a bike of your own, so that you have the opportunity to train and get comfortable with it before your big ride. It’s also always a good idea to familiarize yourself with basic bike repair; simple repair kits are light and easy to carry. However, there will be mechanics on hand should you need them. In order to participate in the challenge, you will also need proof of travel insurance. This can be obtained on your own, or with the help of the challenge organizers. Meals are included in the trip (with the exception of dinner on the ferry to France, and lunch and dinner on the final day in Paris), as are accommodations, luggage transport, ferry travel to France, and return travel to London on a Eurostar train. Upon registering, participants will be provided with a comprehensive packing list.

How do I sign up?

London to Paris Charity Cycles takes place during various periods throughout the year. The next scheduled event will be taking place from September 4^th-8^th 2013, and then one will be happening from September 18^th-22^nd. Places are limited, and can fill up quickly, so don’t wait until the last minute! Booking can be done online. Free informational packages can also be ordered for those who would like more detailed information and testimonials.

But it can also be a daunting moment, especially if you find yourself on a holiday for singles in New York, the most populous city in the USA.

Central Park, New York City

With some 580 skyscrapers, more than 13,000 yellow taxis and 8.2m people going about their lives, the Big Apple can seem overwhelming to those visiting for the first time.

Even if you visit the city as part of a group tour with the likes of TrekAmerica, you’ll be given plenty of free time to explore on your own. With that in mind, here’s a guide to New York for one.

Walking tour

Snap out of your initial daze by taking a guided walking tour. Having a knowledgeable local pointing out the sights will help you orientate yourself so that when you venture out by yourself afterwards you’ll feel a lot more confident.

Uncle Sam’s can take you to traditional landmarks, pubs or clubs depending on your preference, filling you in on the history and culture of the Big Apple along the way.

Go for a burn

Once you’ve got yourself set and seen a few of the main attractions, you’ll no doubt be yearning to indulge in some more diverse experiences.

Pushing the pedals of a rental bike as you whizz around one of the city’s open spaces, such as Prospect Park, is a great way of not only getting some fresh air and time away from the noise of Manhattan, but also the perfect activity for one.

Plus, doing some exercise is a great way to burn off the calories from all those super-sized US meal portions you’ve been enjoying.

Hit a video arcade

Give your total focus to barrel smashing at Barcade, where you can enjoy some self indulgent geek time with Donkey Kong and more than 30 other classic arcade games.

This enormous drinkery on Union Avenue in Brooklyn also has a host of American brews on tap to help quench your thirst after all that button-tapping action. They may or may not help improve your score.

Get pampered

You’ll no doubt be left feeling a bit weary after pounding the streets of New York or the buttons of an arcade machine – especially if you’ve also been hitting it hard in the evenings.

So why not treat yourself to a bit of pampering at the Oasis Day Spa in Manhattan, where you can enjoy a 30-minute Swedish massage for $70 (£45)? Close your eyes and relax into the treatment and you’ll soon forget that you’re all on your tod.

Catch a game

Heading out to a bar in the evening on your own can be a lonely experience. A much easier way to make new friends in the Big Apple is to buy a Knicks jersey and settle in with the 20,000 passionate home fans at Madison Square Garden. Win or lose, you’re sure to share a few spontaneously emotional moments with the locals.

Plus, no trip to the USA would be complete without catching a game of basketball, football, baseball or hockey, and there’s perhaps no finer arena than MSG in which to do so.

And there’s perhaps no finer city in which to go solo than NYC.

The concept of the honeymoon, dating back to the 16^th century, originates in the idea that the period just after the wedding is a time when things are at their sweetest. This is the time for every newlywed couple to take a break from everyday life and travel off into paradise to build the foundation of a relationship that will create memories of a lifetime. This is a journey where the focus should be on the two of you, together, where privacy, along with communication, are key to any successful relationship.

Now, the cliché reads that the most popular honeymoon destinations have always been, and seems to continue to be, the romantic cities of Italy and the French Riviera. But, why would you want to have hundreds of other hysterical tourists and romance-seeking newlyweds around you when instead you could head out into the rejuvenating atmosphere of a remote and peaceful rainforest? Imagine waking up to a gourmet breakfast in the refreshing ocean breeze, spending the wake hours exploring nature, relaxing by the pool and indulging in soothing massages before ending the day strolling along a deserted beach into the sunset.

Sounds tempting? Steer your Google searches toward the coast of Far North Queensland in Australia and you will find exactly what you are looking for. Here, by the shore of the Daintree Rainforest lie the secluded luxury accommodations of Bloomfield Lodge. Whether you dream of an adventure in the depths of the jungle, if you thrive while floating around on the openness of the magnificent ocean, or if you crave nothing more than peace of mind in the company of your loved one, a place like this has all of that and more right outside your doorstep.

What is even more spectacular about this type of honeymoon destinations is that most take part in the ecotourism initiative. Here, the focus is on practicing environmentally sustainable activities while promoting personal growth and self-awareness. It is about appreciating what we have and making the best out of it. What more could you need to create the honeymoon of your dreams?

The Beach Holiday

For young professionals the beach holiday is the perfect way to unwind. You will be able to relax in the sun, do a bit of swimming and hit the bars in the evening. There are plenty of resorts both in Europe and around the world that can cater to this. Take a look at flights to Dubai, Majorca and Spain.

City Breaks

There are plenty of fabulous city destinations in Europe that have a host of different choices. City breaks to place like Prague can also be quite affordable due to the low value of the currency. You can take a look around the city and see some of the more historical sights if you are interested in that.

Night Life

There are plenty of cities that have fantastic night life. If you want you can take a tour of several cities and check out the night clubs there. Getting a rail pass will also make it easier and there are usually hostels that you can stay in. You will also be able to have a look at some of the deals which can save you a considerable amount of money.

Backpacking

Backpacking is great for those who want to save a bit of cash. When you decide to go backpacking you are going to have to organise a couple of things and make sure that you have the right accommodation. Again, you can get a rail pass and this will save you money on transport. By checking out hostels before you arrive you will be able to see what deals are available on stay overs.

Skiing

If you like action-packed holidays then you are going to enjoy skiing. With a number of ski resorts in Switzerland you will be able to learn how to ski or practice your current skills. There are also snowboarding resorts that will offering skiing lessons and activities. During the evenings you can then relax in the lodge and enjoy a cup of something warm. Skiing is definitely recommended for those who want to keep active.

Mystery in the City

New York’s local CBS reports the, “5 Best Murder Mystery Events In New York”. This is one of the best ways to enjoy the thrilling excitement of ‘murder in Manhattan’ without having to deal with any true crimes. The top 5 mystery adventures they list include:

Muder Mysery Inc.

-You get a 3 course dinner, dancing, and a show.

-“. . . longest running Murder Mystery dinner theater in New York and around the world.”

They Improv.

-“They” hosts interactive murder mysteries you get to participate in.

-Events can be altered depending on your dinner and venue options and wants.

Watson Adventures.

-Price: $29.50-44.50.

-Solve “chilling murders” while scavenger hunting through museums.

The Murder Mystery Co.

-Choose a theme or create your own.

-“Innovative” themes combine mystery with magic!

New York Dinner Theatre.

-Cost varies depending on the show you pick.

-Two different interactive themes to choose from.

If you love mystery and mayhem you will want to be sure and include one of these experiences when you plan your itinerary!

Urban Adventures

One thing that makes NY so unique is that it’s a melting pot of the world. Whether modern day-dreamers coming from abroad, or the generations of old, traveling through Ellis Island, New York has been a hub for new comers from around the world. New York City Urban Adventures describes their multicultural tour at NewYorkCityUrbanAdventures.com. They state,

“We’ll walk the narrow, tenement lined, streets of an area known by names like Kleindeutschland, Chinatwon, and Losaiada. Whether Dutch, Jewish, or Chinese we’ll learn about and taste something from every group that has called the neighborhood home and you’ll leave full and happy.”

TripAdvisor.com reveals that out of 98 reviews, 11 were very good, and 83 were excellent! This adventure will open your eyes to many worlds at one time through a sampling of their cuisine and culture.

From Bridges to Law and Order

New York City is full of beautiful architecture that displays its rich history. The city is also iconic for being a hot spot for legendary shows to film. NYC Adventure Tours offers the best of both worlds with their tour adventures. NYCAdventureTours.com shows their tours for:

Law and Order Walking Tour: Tour with a real detective and visit locations of crimes scenes from movies, television and real life.

The Twin Bridges Walking Tour: “from the Statue of Liberty and New York Harbor, to the canyons of Downtown Manhattan and the elegant edifices of the Upper East Side”.

Green-Wood Cemetery: Off the Map: See the “hidden gems and strange secrets” of the most famous Victorian cemetery in NY.

From Captain Kidd to the Titanic: Maritime Ghosts of Old New York: Travel through the West Village by way of the Hudson River hearing about sailors, gangsters, pirates, murders, poets, and more!

Being Prepared

New York is a big city and if you’re planning a trip there you want to make sure to be prepared on how to get around. GoNYC.about.com offers some tips about riding the subway.

1. Entrances are typically located on street corners.

2. MetroCard allows 1 free transfer within 2 hours of first swipe.

3. Get a map!

4. Double check signs!

If you choose to drive in the city, find parking near Penn station or other populated places for safety.

Make sure the next time you’re in NYC to check out one of these lesser known amazing adventures!

The basics of mountain trekking

Trekking up and around mountains is typically challenging, as you’ll hike lengthy uphill trails, followed by steep downhill sections that can often prove just as tricky as going up! You need to be moderately fit if you want to head out on strenuous mountain hikes and, if you’ll be gaining altitude quickly or simply walking considerably above sea level, make sure you’re aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and how to treat it.

Should you have a particular peak in mind for a hike, take the time to train for your ascent, especially if it will be something especially challenging like the walk to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

Where can you go mountain trekking?

There are plenty of destinations all over the world where you can have a go at mountain trekking, with several peaks in the UK offering the ideal introduction to this kind of hiking. Snowdon in Wales and Ben Nevis in Scotland are just two examples of summits that are walkable and that have well-maintained trails leading to the top.

For serious mountain trekking, you’ve got destinations like Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, the Nepali Himalayas and the Alps in Europe, to name just a few! If you’d also like to get off the beaten track when you book a hiking holiday, consider what Africa has to offer. For example, the Simien Mountains in Ethiopia are home to some stunning trails that are infrequently visited by travellers.

Closer to home, you have destinations like Turkey (where you can scale Mount Ararat), France (where you can hike in the mountains surrounding Mont Blanc) and Tenerife in the Canary Islands (where you can walk to the top of Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak). Explore Worldwide offers guided tours to all of these locations and many more.

Equipment for mountain trekking

The level of specialist gear you’ll need to go mountain trekking safely will largely depend on where you’re planning to hike and how high. It’s essential to have a sturdy pair of hiking boots that’s comfortable to wear and provides support to your ankles. Many people also find walking poles useful for balance on steep up and downhill tracks, as well as to help you keep up a steady pace while you’re trekking.

You should also follow the old motto ‘always be prepared’ when you’re trekking in mountainous regions, as the weather can change quickly. Wear layers of clothing and always have a waterproof in your day pack. As with any longer hikes, make sure you have plenty of water and food with you as well.

Considerations when mountain trekking

One of the major considerations when trekking in the mountains is altitude sickness, which can occur when you’re walking in areas where there is less oxygen in the air than your body is used to. Typical symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, tiredness and shortness of breath, among other things.

The best way to deal with it if it affects you is to simply descend, but if you’re keen to prevent it make sure you don’t plan any treks that involve fast ascents and build acclimatisation stops into your itinerary (or check that your tour operator does so).

Have you got any advice for people going mountain trekking? Let us know in the comments below.

It is approx 2050 km long and boasts some of the most scenic driving routes in the world. Stunning coastlines, transcendental lakes and iconic mountain passes, New Zealand will have your jaw drop on more occasions than anywhere else as you drive through the country.

Some tourists turn up expecting to see the whole country in just one or two weeks, and get a big realization that they could spend forever travelling around this spectacular country.

The itinerary you plan for your campervan rental holiday will depend on which parts of New Zealand you’d like to visit, and how much time you have. You can rent a car which will take you around the two islands, but then you would have to stay in hostels, hotels or buy a tent and camping gear.

1. Relaxation

There are few places on this planet with air as clean as New Zealand. When you get away from the cities you become submerged in a peaceful and tranquil paradise. With a camper you can take your time and relax in parks, beaches and park up in towns while having the ability to cook and hide away all at once.

2. You can cook in a Campervan

When you are driving along somewhere in the mystical land and find a beautiful, serene and heavenly place to cook up a quick lunch, you can! This is the beauty of campervans as they provide the means to turn an everyday picnic into a special dinner on th eside of the road. Quality campervans have cooking utensils build in and will provide you with an excellent mans to make delicious meals.

3. You can sleep comfortably in a Campervan

Although it is possible to sleep in a station-wagon car, or even uncomfortably in a normal 5 seater, a campervan provides you with a warm and comfortable bed to lay back in when you decide it is time to rest. Pull the curtains and you have a private oasis somewhere in Middle Earth to sleep wherever your heart desires.

 4. Save Money

When you travel in a campervan you save money on accommodation as you have a private room already and you are able to drop into a supermarket and pick up cheap grociers and put them in your on-board fridge to cook later. This saves on hotels and eating out (both of which can be expensive in New Zealand).

1. Niagara Falls

These falls are one of the most spectacular waterfalls on the earth – if not the most spectacular! During the summer season firework displays light up the sky above it. The falls offer pristine gold course, fine dining, vineyards and well as treks and trails for you to enjoy. Easily one of the top must see attractions in Canada.

2. Canadian Rocky Mountains

The rocky mountains are home to the most breath taking views in Canada. They are found in the Alberta region, and are surrounded by lakes and some of the best hiking and skiing spots on the planet. Famous parks like the Jasper national and Banff national park make the area a popular year round destination for tourists of all tastes.

3. Bay Of Fundy

This is located between the Brunswick province and Nova Scotia. Some of the highest tides in the world have been reported here. Exotic species of dolphins, fish, whales and seals can all be spotted here as well. The bay itself is rumoured to have over 100 billion tons of water in it!

4. Montreal 

The city of Montreal is world famous. It is the second biggest city in Canada, and French is it’s official language. But don’t think you won’t be able to converse with locals if you don’t speak French, there’s plenty of English speakers to go around. A vibrant nightlife is present all over the city, and it is a well known party-goer hotspot. Many people come here from the States on air canada flights for extended weekend breaks.

5. Toronto

Toronto is the biggest city in Canada and is also the capital of Ontario. It is similar in many ways to Montreal, with a huge diverse range of activities and attractions within it. A trip to the hockey hall of fame is must do while there. The museum is dedicated to the history of the game and exhibits teams, records, players and other memorabilia.

6. Old Quebec City

Old Quebec actually refers to the old part of the city – “within the walls”. A walled fortress can be seen in the upper part of the town. Here, the Governor’s mansion along with other rich peoples homes can be seen. Driving motorcycles is not allowed anywhere in Old Quebec, which is a little big disappointing really. Residents and workers who have a special pass are only allowed to use them.  In the winter, the winter carnival festival takes place and has a load of different activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Alnwick Castle

A visit to Alnwick Castle is one of the rare chances to visit an inhabited castle (it’s the home of the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland). Parts of the Harry Potter films were shot here, and Potter-based tours are run in the grounds (with lookalikes!), so it’s a perfect trip for a family with young or not-so-young fans. For the grownups, there’s a chance to see the state rooms, art and gardens.

The Victoria Tunnel

War history buffs will be enthralled by the Victoria Tunnel, which began life as a way to transport coal beneath the city and was converted into an air-raid shelter during World War II. The tours recreate the atmosphere in different times in the Tunnel’s history with sounds of air raids and colliery wagons.

River Cruises

The city’s lifeblood, the River Tyne has served the city for hundreds of years. These days, it’s the most relaxing way to take in the city’s fantastic architectural landmarks – a mix of modern and historical – while hearing about the city’s long and varied history from knowledgeable guides.

BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art

The biggest art gallery of its kind in the world, BALTIC is housed in a large former industrial building, and has a packed calendar full of exhibitions and events, providing a fascinating insight into the cutting edge of contemporary arts practice, from local and international artists. Plus there is a brand new rooftop restaurant and a café/bar for when you need a break.

Gusto Restaurant and Bar

With a brilliant Quayside location, Gusto offers Italian food, with both traditional favourites and contemporary classics, along with an extensive drinks list and highly skilled bartenders. Its décor – influenced by glam New York retro interiors – is certain to make you feel like a star. Nab a booth and enjoy a top-notch evening.

Vivienne Egan writes for FHR who provide Newcastle Airport Parking – http://www.fhr-net.co.uk/airport-parking/newcastle-airport-parking/