Author: Elda Hamaker

We all need a break sometimes so when it comes to your next holiday where will you go? For many of us the idea of a cruise wouldn’t enter our thoughts. However, with the latest innovations in cruising and the huge savings on offer, a holiday on board is looking better than ever. From misconceptions that a cruise is designed for old people or that it’s a sure fire way to get sea sick, cruising has been reinvented as the next big travel trend. Comfort, style and freedom on your own personal slice of the ocean. Still think cruising can’t measure up? Think again, because that ship has sailed. When it comes to your next travel destination the underlying issue is always cost. Getting the most out of your money is vital and with the US Dollar continuing to challenge Aussie travellers it’s a better time than ever to ditch the expensive flight and hotel packages and look at the wide range of cruise options. When looking at your cruising options it is important to start by busting the two major myths, firstly that you will get sea sick and secondly that cruising is for old people. Gordy Bayne, Head of Travel at Scoopon, sums up the sickness myth by encouraging people to remember, “You are on holiday on a ship not a boat. You’ll find a Cruise ship...

Turkey is a gem of a country for travelers interested in history, culture, architecture, outdoor activities, or really anything else. If this country hasn’t made it onto your travel bucket list yet, you should definitely add it! Spread across two continents and displaying bits of history from the Hittites, Greeks, Romans, Lycians, Byzantines, Ottomans, as well as more modern eras, the remains of an often-changing leadership has forged an entirely unique nation. It would be impossible to cover everything about Turkey in one guide, but this is meant to give you at least a base to start planning your itinerary from. Visas and Regulations You will need to obtain a traveler’s visa to enter Turkey, regardless of which country you are from. You used to be able to do this upon arrival, but since April 2014, you are supposed to apply online. Don’t worry, though—the processing time for these visas is short, they are generally not very expensive, and you do not have to submit extensive paperwork or anything like that! Citizens of the US, Canada, and most of the EU countries will be granted a visa for a three-month period. Cost of Living The cost of travelling through Turkey is about mid-range. For a meal at a restaurant, you’re likely to pay somewhere between $5 – $12, depending on where you go. For a hostel, you’ll generally pay...