Filed Under (Travel Advice) by Luis R. Hernandez on November-27-2009
It is always good common sense to keep the following safety tips in mind when traveling:
Always lock your front and/or patio doors - when in the room and when leaving. Use the safety chain/lock for security.
Never open your room door unless you know who is there. If you did not call for hotel service offered by the person at the door, call hotel security or the front desk to see if they have sent someone to your room.
Place valuables in a safety deposit box in your room or at the hotel office.
When checking into a hotel, consult the floor plan map on the back of your room door to familiarize yourself with fire and emergency exits.
Filed Under (Hostel Videos) by EastSeven on November-20-2009
Staying in Berlin over the weekend? Don´t have plans yet on how to spend the sunday? Then read on…
The EastSeven Berlin hostel likes to keep her guest informed on all cool events and activities in Berlin. In this blog we provide some insider tips on what to do on a sunday. Here is our top 10:
1.)Go for a Brunch. Some nice places for a brunch: Anna Blume, Cafe Morgen land , Bar Gagarin
2.)Go to a fleamarket, because sunday is fleamarket day in Berlin. The coolest Fleamarket is the one at Mauerpark!
Close to the hostel (500 m)you find the Arkonaplatz Fleamarket and the famous Mauerpark fleamarket. You don´t want to buy something – no problem you first of all go there to see all kind of urban subjects with hangover and even sober ones. Berliners go there – you should as well.
3.) Go to a museum! For instance : the jewish museum, or the pergamon museum on the museum island.
4.) Go to the Prater Beergarten to drink a beer and eat some delicious sausages!
5.) Check out some of the coolest vintage second hand shops at the oderbergerstrasse and the Eberswalder strasse!
6.) pay a visit to the Topography of terror.
This was the center of Nazi terror and power between 1933 and 1945; now this stretch of land next to the Martin Gropius Bau and not far from Potsdamer Platz is dedicated to documenting the chilling and murderous strategies, plans and actions of the Gestapo, SS and security branch of the Third Reich which were all once headquartered here.
The Topography of Terrors open-air exhibition runs along the excavation site of the cellars of the Gestapo, where political prisoners were interrogated, tortured and executed.
Daily open from 10-18, no admission fee!
7.) Relax at the HAMAM-Turkish bath in kreuzberg
It´s getting colder outside so why not go to the Hamam to enjoy a really nice turkish bath and…
Hamam is a bathing ceremony of the cleansing of the body and soul. Relaxation and communication in a warm and pleasant atmosphere, are key elements of the Hamam culture. Here women from different cultures and walks of life work and meet.You’ll find the Hamam at Mariannenstr. 6 in Kreuzberg. Sorry guys, its for women only!!!!
8.) Go to cafe Chagalle on senefelderplatz for some nice russian dishes and tasty beer.
9.) At the kulturbrauerei you´ll find the club Alte Kantine. On sundays there´s the Lust for Life party. Dance to some nice indie-pop music from 22h till 4h.
10.) Visit DR. Pong, the one and only ping pong bar in Berlin.
For further nice suggestions you can always ask our staff or check out our online staff-recommendations.
And watch our latest hostel movie: what to do on a sunday in Berlin. See you soon!
Filed Under (How To, Travel Advice) by Lauren D. Collins on November-17-2009
We’ve come across many smart money tips for travelers over the years. Here is the absolute best advice we’ve found for carrying cash, credit cards, or other money equivalents while you travel. This advice is a must-read, especially if you’re traveling to areas where crime or theft is a concern.
If you’re traveling to a foreign country, you need a way to carry currency to pay your travel expenses. But security and simplicity is of major importance.
Should I carry traveler’s cheques? No. Traveler’s cheques are not recommended, although they are still a means of guaranteeing absolute safety for the money you carry. This is because they are simply not convenient. If you purchase traveler’s cheques, you will need to sign every single bill in advance. Many merchants will not accept them, and for incidental spending the inconvenience outweighs the benefits.
Should I carry credit cards? Yes. If you own one or more credit cards, use them while traveling abroad. Credit cards are the simplest way to make purchases overseas, and you don’t have to worry about converting currencies since your credit card company will automatically convert all your purchases to your home currency. There is a small cost that credit card companies assess on FX conversions, however, the convenience outweighs the cost. If possible, use a credit card that won’t charge a conversion fee per transaction (check out some cards by Capital One Bank).
For the bulk of my travel expenses, what is better, cash or credit cards? Credit cards are better. This is because you won’t have to worry about losing your cash or having it stolen. Use credit cards for most large purchases, like your lodging expenses, transportation tickets, and meals.
I have several credit cards. How many should I bring? Bring at least 2 credit cards on your trip. This way, if you do lose one you won’t be inconvenienced. If you do bring multiple cards with you, keep one locked in your luggage while you’re out, or give it to a travel companion to carry for safekeeping. This way, if you lose your wallet, you’ll have instant access to another card. If you have no one to hold your extra card, and you must carry it on you, keep it in your front pocket, separate from other cards and cash. This is the least likely place for i to get lost or stolen.
What do I do ifI lose my credit card? Call your credit card company as soon as possible to cancel it. You are not responsible for any unauthorized charges made on your card if lost or stolen.
Should I carry cash if I have credit cards? Yes. Always keep some local currency in cash with you when traveling. You will need it for small expenditures like snacks, taxis, bus, souvenir, etc.
How much cash should I carry? Carry only as much cash on your person as you will need for the day. You can decide how much you may need for daily expenses. If you must carry a fairly large sum of cash on you during the day, make sure you split it up and keep in your front pants pocket for safekeeping. This is the safest place to avoid loss or theft. Fold bills, and hold them either loose or with a money clip or rubber band in your front pocket.
I have more cash with me than I need for a day out. Do I carry all of it with me? No. Only carry the amount of cash you need while out during the day. Keep excess cash in a safe place. Check for in-room hotel safes that use a code that you set. If there is no better safe place for your extra cash, keep it locked in your luggage (always carry luggage locks with you when traveling). This may not sound like a good option, but it is actually safer than carrying large amounts of cash on you. Cash locked in your luggage is secure if no one knows it’s in there. And unless you are in a location where your entire luggage is at risk of being stolen while you’re away from your room, it is extremely unlikely that money will be stolen out of locked luggage.
What if I’m in transit, and have large amounts of money? If you’re traveling by bus, train or public transportation, and do not have a hotel room, keep your money with you. But, remember to split up plastic and cash in several pockets or between several persons. If you’re driving yourself in a car, you may keep extra cash and at least one credit card hidden under a floor mat in the rear seat. This is an unlikely place for anyone to search for money, and is safer than keeping money inside luggage in a car. Remember to lock the car doors at all times.
How should I get cash when I’m traveling? Never use money changing booths at airports or other tourist locations. The best and cheapest way to obtain cash in local currency is to simply use you own bank ATM card. Find an ATM that is of a well known national bank in your destination. When you use your ATM card, your bank will usually get you a better rate on cash withdrawn from the ATM than you can get from money changers. Remember, when withdrawing cash from an ATM, maintain awareness and ensure that you are in a protected location. If you are traveling with others, have someone keep a look out for any potential crime risk while you are removing cash from an ATM.
The same general rules for carrying money apply to carrying your ID while traveling in foreign locations. If you are carrying a passport, obtaining a replacement may be a serious hassle if lost while in a foreign location. Decide if it is safer to keep your passport on your person, or locked safely in your luggage. Wherever you keep your original ID, make sure to keep a photocopy in your luggage, and another photocopy (miniaturized copies are good) in your wallet or pocket. This way, you’ll always have access to your ID, and be able to identify yourself to authorities if it becomes necessary. Some countries may require you to keep your original passport on your person at all times, although this is rare. Know the rules before you travel.
If you are traveling in high risk areas known for crime and scams, never keep all your cash or credit cards in your wallet. Always split it up and keep some cash and at least one credit card in your front pocket. Have travel companions carry some cash and a credit card as well. The same rule applies to your ID. If you are concerned with theft while walking or traveling through a city, keep your driver’s license, and any other important papers you don’t want to lose, in your front pocket. Don’t carry them in wallets, purses, or any other hanging bags.
The EastSeven Berlin Hostel is THE small and relaxed Hostel in Berlin - the ideal place for travellers seeking the true spirit of Berlin. Relax in the Hostel´s beautiful garden after strolling around lively Berlin districts Prenzlauer Berg and Mitte. Staying with us puts you right in the centre of these vibrant districts with their exciting sights. Experience the difference to a big Hostel!
The EastSeven Berlin Hostel is easy to reach from all Airports and Train stations (U2 - Senefelder Platz) in Berlin. The Hostel is situated in the heart of Central Berlin - surrounded by cafés, restaurants, theaters, nightlife and of course lots of Berlin style shops (Kastanienallee, Kollwitz Platz etc.). The Main cultural attractions (Museum Island, Alexander Platz/TV Tower, etc.) are within walking distance from the EastSeven Berlin Hostel.
Visit also our directions page.
The EastSeven Berlin Hostel has opened in April 2005, so it´s fairly new and offers plenty of private rooms (single/ double/ tripple/ quad) and small dorms (max. 8 people)!!
Spacious bathrooms with strong + hot showers 24h, are provided on every floor of the Hostel. The big self catering kitchen as well as the lounge are located in the Hostel´s cozy garden-house. We even supply you with baby beds for your kids and offer a 4 bed room with private facilities for disabled people.
To get an even better impression of the EastSeven Berlin Hostel, we have made a video. Interviewing guests on how they experience our hostel and showing our garden, kitchen lounge and rooms.
Enjoy wathing the video and hope to see you soon in Berlin!!
Newly opened on 20th September 2007, Houssine welcomes you to his friendly guesthouse retreat in the Atlas mountains.
Located in the beautiful village of Imlil, the main gateway for trekking in the Atlas mountains, Houssine’s Riad offers you the chance to stay in this lively rural surrounding.Douar ait souka /dar ouassaggou is an ideal place to stay before and / or after one of our hikes and treks in the High Atlas, beforehand it offers some acclimatisation to the altitude and a relaxed start to the day; afterwards it offers a hot shower and a comfy bed without the transfer back to the hustle and bustle of Marrakech.
We offer 6 double ensuite rooms with a private shower & wc, 1 large berber salon for relaxation and free time.
Our roof terrace enjoys nice views above several berber villages.
This is an ideal base for walking and other outdoor activities. Guides, mules and packed lunches can be organized on request.
There are also traditional Hammam in village for the perfect way to end the day!
The warm and very friendly welcome by Houssine and his team makes this accommodation special.
The “Lake Lodge” Hostel is a newly renovated Hostel situated on the banks of the beautiful Lake Brienz. We offer a variety of cheap accomodation ranging from simple dorms (4 - 6 bed) to private doubles and our spacious Lake and Mountain Suite.
Enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery in our chilled out lounge and terasse, where our bar and kitchen staff will spoil you with local as well as international treats that make summer so delightful and lovely! Our restaurant will suprise you with fair priced dishes and XXL and family portions! Last but not least our Cuban Bar is the perfect spot for aperetifs and sundowners!
We offer bookings of all activities connected to the area such as canyoning, rafting, paragliding and lots more! All activities will be carried out by experienced guides!
The Lake Lodge Team looks forward to your visit! Cu soon in Iseltwald!
LakeLodge Wintersport Formula
5 x 20 = 25,-- (CHF)
5 skiareas reachable in 20 minutes for 25.-- sfr./per person & night
The formula for ski & snowboard freaks that want to ski all day and are looking for a cheap stay!
We offer 5 skiareas and for just a little extra charge we take you to the skiarea and provide a local guide!
La Puesta del Sol and The Ranch provide service to groups of 50 to 1,600 and offer an unparalleled southwestern catering experience. Both venues feature a stage, dance floor and covered dining area with some of the best catering in Arizona: Featuring western menus, Mexican cuisine, authentic cowboy cookouts, and fine dining in the desert.
Our live performers add serious sizzle to your off-site event with a wide variety of pop, country, jazz, salsa, club dance, blues, and rock music selections. Groups can add additional flair to events with our interactive cowboy games, try their hand at the black jack table or take a ride on Chewys Tequila Bus. Built solely for the purpose of extending Southwestern hospitality, Fort McDowell Adventures provides a Wild West experience your group will never forget.
Welcome to the Fort McDowell Resort Destination:
the adventurous side of Scottsdale.
For a Customized Proposal, Please Call 480.816.6465. Thank you.
Filed Under (Hostel Videos, USA) by hospitalityhelpers on October-30-2009
Welcome to our Comfort Inn, a Fountain Hills, Arizona hotel near the Mayo Clinic
The Comfort Inn® hotel is conveniently located just four miles from the Mayo Clinic Medical Center and 10 miles from the Mayo Clinic Hospital. We provide free shuttle service to both of these facilities and other nearby points of interest. Our Fountain Hills, AZ hotel is also close to the city of Scottsdale, beautiful Saguaro Lake, the Fort McDowell Casino and Fort McDowell Adventures, offering Wild West family fun with horseback riding, wagon rides, wienie roasts and much more.
Within minutes of our hotel you will find additional popular attractions such as:
TPC Scottsdale golf course, home of the annual FBR Open PGA tournament
WestWorld equestrian center, home of the annual Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show
Hohokam Stadium, spring training home of the MLB Chicago Cubs
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event and auction
Arizona’s Salt River, perfect for relaxing while tubing downstream
Take advantage of the beautiful Arizona weather at one of several nearby golf courses, including Desert Canyon Golf Club, SunRidge Canyon Golf Club, Eagle Mountain Golf Club, FireRock Country Club and We-Ko-Pa Golf Club. Ask about our golf packages at these fine courses.
For world-class shopping and dining, nearby Kierland Commons features dozens of upscale shops, unique boutiques and a great variety of eateries and entertainment venues. For your convenience, a 24-hour Denny’s restaurant is located adjacent to our hotel.
The Comfort Inn hotel in Fountain Hills, AZ provides first-class customer service and many value-added amenities like:
Free deluxe continental breakfast
Free wireless high-speed Internet access
Free weekday USA Today
Outdoor pool & hot tub
Business center with fax & copy services
Filed Under (Berlin, Germany) by EastSeven on October-29-2009
We have a new cook. Florian cooks delicous vegetarian meals every monday. Florian is a real Berliner and cooking is his passion and sharing the food with friends a kind of heaven on earth. If you like you could even join in on the cooking and mix with your own ingredients to create experimental dishes…hmmmm
Its a fun event and a nice opportunity to meet other travellers!
So do all to have a bed on monday at EastSeven Berlin Hostel. Of course the food is for FREE, but you should register till monday15:00.
For more impressions just watch our cooking on mondays video:
Down below you find an overview of some of the most beautiful and amazing sights in Berlin. If you´re not sure jet how to spend your day in Berlin, just check out the top 20, with our recommendations on some of the coolest buildings, museums and parks Berlin has to offer! Some of the attractions are even for FREE!!!
For an in-depth look at all of these sights, and many more besides, join the Brewers Best of Berlin Day Tour. Brewers Berlin also offers a free sight seeing tour, which covers most of these sights. Tours also begin at our wonderful hostel.
OUR TOP 20:
TV Tower – Built in 1969 as a symbol of East German socialism, this 368m tower, the largest structure in Germany, even has its own revolving café/restaurant. A trip to the top also offered a rare chance for East Germans to see what life on the other side of The Wall was really like.
Reichstag – The German parliament building, re-opened in 1999 after the government and most of the ministries moved from Bonn to Berlin. British architect Lord Norman Foster redesigned this place, complete with a huge glass dome with public access, so you can watch the politicians at work.
Brandenburg Gate – Every 10, 20 and 50 cent German Euro coin is minted with a picture of this big city gate on its reverse side. Stranded in a lonely no-mans land between 1961 and 89 thanks to the East German government, no other structure in Berlin better symbolises the temporary division of the city.
Berliner Dom – Perhaps the most over-decorated protestant church in the world and once home to the Nazi partys Reich church. Bombed out during WW II, the Berlin Cathedral was restored to its current glory in 1993 - complete with a whopping great 7,200-pipe pipe organ.
Jewish museum – German-Jewish relations have had their bad times, and surprisingly, although the exhibition names wouldnt give it away, their good times. Daniel Libeskind, the architect behind New Yorks Ground Zero memorial, designed this Museum.
Museum Island – Surrounded on all sides by the River Spree, Museum Island is literally an island with museums on it, isnt that clever? It is not only home to some of the citys top class museums such as the Altes Museum and the Pergamon Museum, but also the Berliner Dom and the tranquil Lustgarten.
Lustgarten – Dont be confused by the name, Berlins naked people are running around the citys 500acre Tiergarten just down the road. The Lustgarten started its life as a cabbage patch for the nearby city palace, later used as a military parade ground, now a grass garden.
Holocaust Memorial – Berlins ultra-controversial memorial for the murdered Jews of Europe, 2,711 concrete blocks jutting off at offensive and suffocating angles. Co-incidentally only a stones throw away from the site of Adolf Hitlers former underground lair, the Führerbunker.
Potsdamer Platz – This was the glitzy centre of Germanys debauched 1920s metropolis, and the site Europes first traffic light system. Smashed into rubble during WW II, its now home to Europes fastest elevator and a mass of steel and glass buildings said to represent the future of Berlin.
Topography of Terror – Back in 1987 a group of students excavated, with little more than their bare hands, the cellars of Berlins former Gestapo and SS headquarters. The Topography of Terror is the fruit of their labour, an open-air exhibition documenting what happens when a totalitarian regime tortures its people to death for fun.
Checkpoint Charlie – Berlins most famous crossing point between East and West and a lasting symbol of the citys fragile Cold War relations. Commemorated today by an ersatz replica of the original American checkpoint and two historically inaccurate pictures of Soviet and American soldiers.
Gendarmenmarkt – Touted by many guidebooks as the prettiest square in Berlin, Gendarmenmarkt is famous for its two churches - one Protestant, one Catholic - each built opposite each other by the opposing religion. Not often that happens.
DDR Museum - Using the paraphernalia of shopping, fashion and family life Berlins DDR museum attempts to introduce visitors to what for millions of East Germans was once everyday life. Play Hausfrau in an authentic DDR kitchen and living room, or experience first-hand what it was like to be spied on.
Tacheles – One-time department store then SS headquarters in the heart of Berlins former Jewish quarter, the Tacheles was taken over by squatters in 91. Behind the buildings bombed out façade is a wealth of art studios, two cinemas, 3 bars, a beach bar, a café and a newly opened bourgeois restaurant.
Hackescher Markt – Hackescher Markt was once home to booming businesses during the Industrial Revolution. Its now famous not only for its attractive station, but as a jumping off point to the nearby Hackescher Höfe complex.
Karl Marx Allee - Rent a bike at the reception and explore this sweeping communist boulevard where the GDR Government used to proudly present their weapons of mass destruction at their May Day parades.
Raw Temple - An alternative entertainment hub including an indoor skate hall, a former Nazi hide-out used now for freestyle rock climbing, an open air cinema and regular live music.
Volkspark Friedrichshain - A beautiful park, excellent for jogging or having a picnic. In the middle youll find Friedrichshains highest hill, which provides a 78-metre high view over Berlins flat terrain. The hill was actually man-made to cover up a destroyed anti-aircraft bunker from World War II, as well as several tonnes of bombed out rubble.
Stasi Headquarters - Take the U5 subway at Alexanderplatz to Magdalenenstrasse and visit the former headquarters of the Stasi – East Germanys cruel and meticulous secret police - in Normannenstr. The building has been transformed into a museum and you can walk through the preserved offices of some of the GDRs most powerful men. A disturbing look at Berlins very recent past.
Schloss Charlottenburg - If you are interested in Prussian architecture and history but dont have time to travel to Potsdam, then Schloss Charlottenburg is the perfect inner-city alternative. This outstanding palace and its surrounding gardens are not only visually stunning, but will also give you a detailed insight into the lifestyle of the Prussian emperors.
