Tips for Learning Languages

December 21, 2009 :: Posted by - Travel Troll :: Category - Good to Know, Interest

When traveling to different countries it is ideal to be able to pick up on the language while you are there. Here are some simple tips to help you learn the language:

1-Set realistic expections. Rome was not built in a day and you will not learn Chinese, Spanish, or Romanian in a day. But, in one day you can learn alot and be on the road to fully understanding the language.

2- Focus on vocab. Even if you don’t know how to put words together if you have a strong base of words you will be able to communicate at least a little.

3- Maximize your language exposure. The more that you listen to a language the better you will pick up on the accent and become familiar with the way it sounds.

4- Speak to the natives. Many times people in other countries want to talk to people who are not from their country- so talk to them! Ask them different questions and ask them vocab and various phrases. When you do this you will be able to pick up on the language faster.

Top Ten Travel Songs

December 17, 2009 :: Posted by - Travel Troll :: Category - Entertainment, Good to Know, Interest

Top Ten Travel Songs:

#1: Phantom Planet- California

#2: Dixie Chicks- Wide Open Spaces

#3: Owl City- Hello Seattle

#4: Men at Work – Land Down Under

#5: Celine Dion- I Drove all Night

#6: Augustana- Boston

#7: U2 – I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For

#8: John Denver- Leaving on a Jet Plane

#9: The Bangles – Walk Like an Egyptian

#10: Cake- Stick Shifts and Safety Belts

Copenhagen: Cleanest City in Europe

December 10, 2009 :: Posted by - Getaway Guru :: Category - City, Good to Know, Interest, Shopping

Known as the Most Livable City in the World and as the cleanest city in Europe, Copenhagen is friendly to families of all ages. It is a unique and interesting place for a vacation that offers a variety of activities, including:

  1. Ice Skating: There are at least six authentic outdoor ice skating rinks in Copenhagen. The crisp, cool air is a refreshing experience for all who take advantage of this special family outing experience.
  2. Night Sky:  The Tycho Brahe Planetarium is also a special experience for those who are fascinated with the night sky. The presentations always begin with a quick review of what the night sky actually looks like that night. Although the presentations are commonly given in Danish, there are head phones/translators for English speakers.
  3. Theatre: Copenhagen offers a variety of opportunities to see the performed arts as well. The Royal Danish Opera and the Royal Danish Playhouse are both situated on water fronts, which offer miraculous views. The Royal Danish Theatre’s Old Stage has a very elegant interior, showcasing red velvet and gold.
  4. The Little Mermaid: In honor of Hans Christian Anderson’s Little Mermaid, Copenhagen is home to a statue named after her. It is one of the most photographed statues in the world.
  5. Shopping: The world’s longest pedestrian street that features the Copenhagen’s largest shopping center is known as Strøget. Big International Brands like Prada, Max Mara, Louis Vuitton, Cerutti, Mulberry, Chanel, Marlboro, Karen Millen, Hermès and Boss are all offered here.