A quick look on the Internet for your town or state will provide more events than you will ever be able to attend in one month.

There are some great State fairs. The Alabama State Fair is a good one with a giant pumpkin contest. Also the Indiana State Fair, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas and the Carolinas. All great State Fairs with plenty of activities and excitement for everyone in the family. There really is something to please every age group and taste.

Many local churches will have events and a harvest festival in October. These usually have plenty of fresh produce and an abundance of crafts and fresh baked goods.

Another good place for October fun can be local farms. Many of these have pick your own pumpkins, fresh baked goods, fresh fruit and vegetables, hay rides, corn roasts and various competitions for the kids. You can usually get some good advice on carving your pumpkin into the perfect Jack O Lantern too.

At most of the big events you will find fairgrounds, music, parades, recipe contests, craft fairs, hay rides, food stands, scarecrow decorating contests and so many more crazy and inventive competitions.

So don’t miss out start planning your October entertainment now.  Look out for articles and advertisements for Halloween, Harvest Festivals, Hay Rides and so much more fun in October.

Assuming you are an EU citizen you can enter Cyprus without any type of visa. After arrival in whichever town  or city you chose to live in, go to the local Alien and Immigration office, take your passport. They will give you the necessary forms to fill in and will give you an appointment for some time in the future. At the moment that is about 3 months. At your appointment you will be given a number and will have to wait your turn. This seems logical and easy enough except that they do not actually see you in numerical order!! Kind of defeats the number system but never mind.  They seem to book everyone in for the same time so just wait. Go prepared with water and something to read. Every member of the family must attend. Listen carefully to staff as various  staff members come in to the waiting room and speak either English or Greek and ask for various nations passport holders and see them in order of who seems to get to the door first.  Don’t loose your patience or shout this gets a very negative reaction and I saw one man being told to leave. As it take months to get an appointment just sit patiently and keep smiling!!
 
Take with you the completed form, signed and stamped recent bank statements from your Cyprus bank account, proof of income if retired, proof of employment if working or self employed, proof of monies etc elsewhere in the world, private health insurance documents  (essential you will be refused entry without this), copy of house rental contract to prove you have somewhere to live, marriage certificate if applicable or proof of union if living with someone.
 
If you are thinking of relocating to Cyprus rent a property for a few months before you decide to purchase anything. Don’t purchase before you have passed immigration just in case you fail to be admitted.
 
If you are bringing children of school age there is an article on Travel Advice Pages. Look on the left hand side of the main page and click on Cyprus. It is among the articles there.
 
At some point next year these rules will probably change. I have been told immigration will be easier for those in the EU.  I don’t have the details as yet. The site will be updated as soon as I have confirmation of the new regulations. 

So for those of you thinking of relocating to Cyprus I hope this article is of some help and it lets you see that is is relatively easy compared to many countries.  Also whatever the difficulties you may encounter Cyprus is definitely worth the trouble.

Here is an extract from Verna’s letter:

“I took Jacob, our oldest grandchild, camping in Algonquin Park for 5 days. He also had a friend join him and 10 year old boys are busy.  We hiked different trails each morning and then biked along an abandoned railway turned into a biking trail each afternoon - approx 15 km.”
“One amazing aspect of this camping trip was being part of a ‘Wolf Howl’.  It is an event that only occurs on Thursdays in the month of August, and only if the naturalists are able to locate a wolf pack within road access.  To participate, you check the bulletin board on the Thursday morning and then if there is a Wolf Howl, you are instructed to meet at an outdoor theatre, which is located along the main highway, halfway through the park.  You are instructed to have a full tank of gas in your vehicle and to meet at 8 pm.  The naturalists give an informative talk about the wolves in Algonquin Park and then everyone gets in their vehicles and are directed to the observation area to hopefully hear the wolves answer back to the naturalists who are calling to them.  The Thursday we were part of this Howl, there were 1460 people present which meant there were approx 300 cars heading down the highway.  That in itself was an amazing site to see all of these cars ahead and behind you.  When we reached the area of the Howl, they directed people to park along both sides of the highway and stand beside their cars.  At this point, the police have closed both directions of the main highway leading through the park and the line of parked cars on the side of the highway extended for at least one to one and a half miles.  This process of leaving the outdoor theatre and reaching our destination took approximately 90 minutes.  The organization and volunteer work was excellent and very efficient.  The night was warm and very clear and as you stood beside your car with no lights except the stars and moon - that also was an amazing experience.  Anyway when the naturalists starting howling to the wolves, there was complete silence - nobody coughed, sniffled, whispered, etc.  It was just so silent and yes the wolves answered back.  With all of the howling and yipping it sounded like the pack had a least 20 wolves.  What an incredible experience for the two 10 year old boys and Nana.

“they only have the Wolf Howls in August - the baby wolves  are now old enough to travel with the pack therefore the packs are on the move.  The naturalists spend each Tuesday and Wednesday night trying to locate a wolf pack that will answer them.  If they get a response from the same pack on both nights then they post the notice on the bulletin boards of each campground and at the many visitor’s centres throughout the park and I am certain it must be posted on the Algonquin Park website as well.  If they are unable to locate wolf packs on the Tuesday and Wednesday nights, then no Wolf Howl takes place and campers spend a quiet evening by their campfires instead.  The Wolf Howls have been occurring in Algonquin Park for the past forty years.  Prior to this, wolves were hunted throughout the park.  In the 1960’s, the Park asked a renowned naturalist to visit the park and study the wolf population and he replied yes but only if they stopped killing the wolves.  Wise man!  During this study period, it was decided to invite the campers to one of the Wolf Howls the naturalists were conducting.  They thought perhaps 30 people may be interested but 600 attended the first Howl.  It was deemed such a success that is has been part of the events offered at Algonquin Park ever since.”

What an amazing experience for all the family, really something not to be missed. A real Wow moment for the kids.

We hope you enjoyed Verna’s letter and her comments on her experiences at the Wolf Howl at Algonquin Park. 

Remember you are welcome to send articles, opinions, photographs and videos of your holidays and travel experiences.

Travel Advice has a few suggestions to really liven up this Halloween Night:

If you are in the UK  why not try Jack The Ripper’s Sinister London Walking Tour? You will be following in the footsteps of one of the most infamous murderers in Britain. Down dark, narrow alleyways, looking at the scenes of his brutal murders. Perfect for a creepy Halloween Experience.

Or what about the most haunted place in Britain. Try the Edinburgh Underground Night Walking Tour. Descend beneath Edinburgh to the underground vaults. Here you will find out all about the Edinburgh Ghost Project.

It is one thing to read about ghosts and ghouls in the comfort of your arm chair but how would you feel actually looking for ghostly apparitions, or poltergeist activity?  How would it feel on Halloween Night to be in a place where there is a tradition of spirit sightings and unexplained events.

For those of you in the USA why not consider a Halloween Break in Salem, Massachusetts.  Here you can visit the location of the famous Witch Trials and join the locals in the “Festival of The Dead“. Take part in the “Dumb Supper” a banquet which is held in silence in honour of the dead, or join any number of spooky events in the area.

Why not get a group together and go to Hell. You can chose from Hell in Michigan, California, Norway, Holland or the Cayman Islands.  You can all go to Hell together for the perfect Halloween destination.

Another spooky destination if you would like a Halloween Vacation is the Bermuda Triangle. This would be another fantastic spot for a group holiday of spooky goings on.

A quick look on the internet will soon have your head full of spooky Halloween Holiday ideas. Haunted Castles, Lighthouses, Walking Tours, Vampire Walking Tours, Haunted History Tours, Murder and Mystery Walking Tours, Halloween Balls and a whole host of haunted Hotel and Bed and Breakfasts.  One of the spookiest being the Lizzie Borden  B & B.

Wherever you live and what ever you decide to do on Halloween Night have a fantastically creepy time.

There is a solution. Why not try some of the more unusual types of accommodation around the world. If you want something a little special for your holidays, have a look at some of the following suggestions. Whether you need accommodation for a romantic getaway, family holiday, wedding or honeymoon you are sure to find some thing just a bit different to make your vacation that much more interesting.

A Moroccan Riad. A traditional Moroccan house or palace built around an interior garden. The design of these dwellings in the coastal regions of Morocco is an adaptation and modification of a Roman Villa. A new vogue of restoration has seen a surge of interest in such towns as Marrakesh and Essaouira. Many Riads are now used as apartments, hotels and restaurants. Relax in total tranquillity, experiencing an amazing culture, in beautiful and exotic surroundings.

In sunny rural Spain, stay in a Finca or Cortijos farmhouse. A Finca is similar to an English smallholding, usually on less than 10000 square metres of land. The Cortijos is a large farm on many hectares with several buildings and stables.These are a great option for an holiday experience with space for hiking, biking and riding. Perfect for a family holiday in the sun.

A Trullo is a traditional Italian stone dwelling with a conical roof. These houses are found in the Itria Valley in the southern region of Apulia. Built without cement or water, the walls are very thick providing a cool environment in hot weather and insulation in the winter. The Trulli are very popular with tourists and found in picturesque, rural locations. So for a truly special holiday try the Trulli.

How about Bed and Breakfast in a Lighthouse? For over a century mariners have relied on these lights to guide them near rocky and remote coastlines. Many around the world are no longer active and have been tastefully converted into holiday accommodation. We mention just a couple. Big Bay Point Lighthouse overlooking Lake Superior in Michigan and the Saugerties Lighthouse on the Hudson River, built in 1869 at the mouth of the Esopus Creek. Quirky but very comfortable!

Converted Water Mills and Olive Mills provide great accommodation in both France and Spain. Normally authentic and spacious, these mills offer a comfortable stay in some of the most beautiful settings.

In Egypt, The Dakhla Oasis Lodge is situated in the desert outside of Cairo. The Oasis sits in a depression surrounded by pink cliffs and has been inhabited since prehistoric times The 32 rooms are furnished in the local style and all are air conditioned. Visits to the nearby archaeological sites and camel safaris into the Sahara make for a unique and fascinating holiday. Rather a romantic holiday for two.

Last but not least is the Ice Hotel in Jukkasjarvi, Sweden.  We have written about this before but it provides a truly unique experience. A Hotel made totally from ice. Each room is very individual in style but all are made from the frozen water of the local river. And we do mean everything right down to the bed.

Whatever your choice - why not try an unusual holiday accommodation this year.

The US Bureau of Transportation publishes some very interesting statistics on the performance of our airlines. In this article we examine a few of the published figures and leave you to decide - How Good Are Our Airlines? A word of warning. As Chaucer once said ” There are lies, dammed lies and Statistics!” These figures are those reported in June 2008.

Delays

The overall causes of delays, with percentages, are published  as follows:

Delays and cancellations attributable to National Aviation Systems such as Air Traffic Control, traffic volume. airport operations and non extreme weather - 10.16%

Late arriving aircraft. Previous flight with same aircraft causing late departure - 8.86%

Air Carrier Delay caused  by circumstance within the airline’s control. Maintenance or crew problems - 6.78%

Cancellations - 1.80%

Extreme Weather - 1.14%

Diverted Aircraft - 0.37%

Security Delay - 0.05%

Mishandled Baggage

Did you have any problems with lost or delayed luggage? In June 2008, US Airlines received a total of 281,404 baggage reports from 54,674,153 enplaned passengers in the domestic US area, giving  an overall rate of 5.15 reports per 1000 passengers. American Eagle Airlines appear to have the worst record both in 2007 and 2008.

Bumped Off

In the period April to June 2008 there were 158,249 Voluntary Bumpings (Passengers receiving compensation for over sales) 15049 Involuntary Bumpings from a total of 151,843,987 enplaned passengers giving a rate of 1.00 per 1000.

Did you have reason to complain?

These could include Flight Problems, Overbooking, Boarding, Refunds, Baggage, Customer Service, Disabilities or Discrimination. In June 2008, US Airlines, Foreign Airlines, Travel Agents, Tour Operators and others generated 881 complaints, down from 1097 in June
2007. Flight delays and baggage problems received the most complaints.

On a sad note. Airlines in June 2008, reported the deaths of three animals and the loss of one animal in transit.

Finally, in the US, arrivals on time ranged from 98.2% by Hawaiian Airlines to 58.8% by American Airlines, giving an overall punctuality figure of 70.8%

Based on the above we leave you to decide on how good you feel are our airlines. Whatever your opinion we wish you a safe and complaint free flight.

You can explore the French countryside on board a small, floating luxury hotel, attended by an experienced crew, ready to meet your every need. Hosting a small number of guests means attention to detail and an exceptional level of service and cuisine. Hotel Barges have all the modern comforts, with accommodation based on twin and double-bedded staterooms and suites, all with private en-suite shower or bathroom.

The finest regional cuisine is prepared by an on-board gourmet chef. Breakfast and lunch may be enjoyed on the sundeck with a candlelit dinner being the culinary highlight of the day, complimented by the finest French wines.

As your floating hotel cruises at a sedate 6-8Km per hour along the rivers and canals, you have the opportunity to stroll or cycle along the tow path or visit the quaint canal side villages, with your hotel barge waiting at the next lock or mooring. If that sounds too strenuous then just relax on the sundeck.

Daily excursions are arranged so that you may explore the local region, with wine tasting often on the agenda. These trips are either a short distance from the waterway or reached by using the hotel’s minibus.

If you feel the need for exercise, optional activities such as horse riding, golf or tennis are available. On some cruises, hot air ballooning is possible so that you may view the area from above.

Whether you opt for a Hotel Barge or a self-drive Penchinette, these holidays provide a rich experience and a new perspective of a beautiful country.

The best choice of vessel is the “Penichette” a barge specifically designed for river or canal cruising, based on the traditional French barge design. Do not let the term” barge” fool you. These are sophisticated boats, more akin to the normal cabin cruiser. The Flying Bridge Penichettes are the latest designs providing dual inside and outside steering positions with bow thrusters for maximum maneuverability in narrow spaces. They provide accommodation for 4-8 persons, mainly in single or double en-suite cabins. The saloon is the place for family board games and intimate dinners. The boats are roomy with showers and hot and cold running water. Water tanks are easily filled at locks and villages. All linen is provided. A permit is supplied by the boat-hire company and you will receive basic instruction on driving, together with detailed navigation guides. Going through the Locks is all part of the fun, and a ritual, as explained in your guide and you will be assisted by friendly Lock Keepers. Cruise at your own pace and moor up to dine ashore, fish or explore the local scene. Most boats carry bicycle racks and bicycles can be hired. Ride ahead on the towpath for that French bread and warm croissants for breakfast!

France has an enormous choice of waterways for your trip. Each region is perfect for a relaxing holiday. In Western France is the rugged beauty of Brittany. In Eastern France the canals of Alsace Lorraine flow past medieval, fortified towns, the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains. The Canal du Midi in the south is a World Heritage Site. This canal links Toulouse with Agde flowing past the walled city of Carcassonne. The Canal du Rhone and the Canal de la Robine bring one to the Camargue, famed for pink flamingos and wild horses. Finally, the canals of Nivernais, Loire and Bourgogne open up the heartland of France. This is the region to sample Boeuf Bourguignon with chilled Chablis.

Boating in France is a unique and rich experience on canals and beautiful rivers far away from the madding crowds and the busy Routes Nationales! With  self-drive Barge Holidays in France you see the country from a different perspective.

Until 1991, Malaysia and Thailand operated separate railway systems which necessitated a change of trains in Penang in order to travel onwards to Bangkok. The 1991  agreement allowed a luxury train to travel  between Singapore and Thailand commencing with  the inaugural run in 1993.

The current E&O was built in Japan in 1972 and commenced life in New Zealand as that country’s “Silver Train.”The rolling stock was remodelled and refurbished by Gerard Gallet, the  designer of both the original Orient Express and the British Pullmans. The internal decor is based on Chinese, Thai and Malaysian materials and motifs with the whole atmosphere reminiscent of Colonial days. The train accommodates 132 passengers in 66 cabins with 24 hour room service.

The E&O offers three choices of beautifully appointed compartments, each with picture windows,  air-conditioning,  en-suite shower and 24 hour steward service.
The Presidential Suites (`11.6 sq metres) are styled as  private lounges during the day and the seating converts to two single beds at night. The suite has en-suite facilities and its own complimentary bar. The State Cabins are very similar and slightly smaller at 7.8 sq Metres.  The E&O also has 36 Pullmman Superior cabins with seating converting to upper and lower bunks at night. All are non-smoking.

Lunch and dinner are served in the two restaurant cars with Eastern and European dishes prepared by internationally-renowned chefs. Each morning breakfast is served in your compartment, with afternoon tea in colonial style also being brought to your cabin. Tea and coffee is available throughout the day in the Observation Car. All meals are included in the fare.

The Observation Car is located at the rear of the train  with  teak wood flooring, rattan furniture and an open area perfect for photography. At the end of the day you can relax in the Bar Car with its resident pianist and local entertainment. A must is the delicious cocktail - The Shanghai Express. For those who may experience retail therapy withdrawal (shopping) there is an on-board Boutique in the Saloon Car, where you can purchase mementos, exclusive to the E&O. Finally, there is a reading room with a varied library.

Further information.

Luggage is limited to 30Kg except for Presidential Suite passengers. “Through” luggage will not be accessible until the final destination. There is limited storage for “Compartment and Hand” luggage in the cabin.

Visas for visits of less than 30 days are not required for Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, except for citizens of certain Middle Eastern, African or South American countries.

As with all holidays abroad Health Insurance is advisable.

Children under 11 years receive a 20% discount. Children under 2 years travel free.

Regrettably, the dimensions and layout of the train are not suitable for persons requiring a wheelchair.

On the Eastern and Orient Express all prices are quoted in US dollars. Other major currencies can be exchanged on board. Major credit cards are also accepted but not personal cheques.
The Eastern and Orient Express with its comfort, elegance, cuisine and service provides a unforgettable journey through this wonderful region and ranks as one of the great railway journeys of the world.