FrugalMonkey Discount Travel News

Category: Trip Locations

  • Get Inked in New Zealand – Maori Tattoos and Kirituhi

    The ultimate souvenir of any vacation is a tattoo, a permanent reminder of the place you have visited and the things you have seen. Many visitors to New Zealand hope to get inked in the traditional Maori style, but there are a few things to consider before you go under the needle.

    A Maori warrior
    A Maori warrior

    Maori tattoos, or ta moko, are not tattoos as we know them. Instead of puncturing the skin with needles, moko artists carve the skin with chisels, known as uhi. This leaves textured grooves in the skin, rather than the smooth surface of a traditional tattoo.

    Maori tattoos are a key part of the culture of these native people. They show respect for tradition, and a commitment to one’s Maori identity. Men typically wear the tattoos on their thighs, arms, faces, and buttocks, while women are tattooed on their chin and lips. Every tattoo is unique, recounting the story of its wearer, their family, and their place in their tribe.

    Given their cultural significance, many believe that only Maori people should wear ta moko. In fact, many Kiwi tattoo artists refuse to give moko tattoos to those without Maori blood. However, many artists will replicate the style with comparable tattoos known as kirituhi.

    These tattoos do not contain the family genealogy or stories of the moko designs, and so do not offend the Maori people who are protective of their culture. For anyone who likes the style of these eye-catching tattoos, this culturally sensitive compromise will usually suffice. If you are interested in getting a kirituhi tattoo while in New Zealand, visit Uruora Moko Studios in Tolaga Bay, Otautahi Tattoo in Christchurch, and Electric Ink Tattoo in Levin and Paraparaumu.

    [Image Source: Geoftheref/Flickr]

  • Tourist Tips for Dealing with Beggars in India

    Tourists visiting India are often shocked by the number of beggars in the major tourist centers.

    Their presence is somewhat confronting, especially if you hail from an affluent part of the world, but by following a few simple tips they need not detract from your vacation experience. Beggars are most prevalent in tourist areas, as these people look to take advantage of unknowing visitors. Many congregate around tourist attractions, shopping districts, and railway stations. You might also see them near major traffic intersections, where they approach stationary cars at traffic lights. While beggars in Western countries are generally homeless people, this is not always the case in India. Beggars often make more money than they would in paid employment, and so opt to walk the streets. As a rule, you should ignore any beggar who seems healthy and able bodied to avoid being exploited. Of course, it can be more difficult to disregard a beggar if they are handicapped, elderly, or very young. In these instances it's often better to give food rather than money which may be spent on alcohol, or end up in the pockets of parents. Do not be suckered in too easily though. Beggars often go out with children and babies that aren’t there own to play on Western sympathies. If you would like to give money, always make sure it is a small amount. Between two and 10 Indian rupees is an appropriate sum. Otherwise you may attract more beggars who hope to share in your wealth. It's also wise to hand over money as you are leaving an area rather than arriving; loitering will also attract more beggars. Remember that while you may have a generous spirit, there are many beggars in India. It would be impossible to help them all, so you should not attempt to try. While it may seem cruel, it is often best to ignore India's beggars and focus on all of the wonderful sites this country has to offer.

  • Queensland’s Cane Toad Races Strike Back Against Environmental Pests

    If you’re traveling around Australia and end up in the far north Queensland region, chances are that you’ll happen upon one of the area’s infamous cane toad races.

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    These wacky events are a crowd-pleasing way to deal with the infestation of these pesky amphibians.

    The grotesque cane toads were originally introduced into Queensland to combat the beetles which destroyed the state’s sugarcane crops. Sadly the cane toads left the beetles alone, but began to decimate the rest of the landscape. They feasted upon small wildlife, while larger creatures that saw the toads as a meal succumbed to their poisonous glands. They also bred rapidly, and spread from Queensland to other Australian states.

    Cane toad races are a way for the locals to strike back against this scourge. Race organizers collect a bucket of cane toads before the race. The toads are assigned numbers and humans who can win prizes if their toad comes out on top. It’s tradition for participants to kiss their toad for luck, although one wonders whether this makes the beasts hop any faster!

    The cane toads are covered by a bucket placed in the middle of a central area, such as a dance floor. Once the bucket is lifted the crowds go wild, encouraging their toad to leave the area first.

    cane toad
    A hated cane toad

    Once the race ends the toads are disposed of in a humane manner. Some suggest the practice is cruel, but one must remember that the cane toad is regarded as Australia’s biggest animal pest. Every toad killed helps to save the country’s native wildlife, so the races serve as a kind of community service.

    You can watch a cane toad race nightly at Port Douglas’ Iron Bar Saloon, every Sunday at Mount Tamborine’s Bearded Dragon Tavern, and on Wednesdays at the Island Tavern on Magnetic Island.

    [Image Source: Sam Fraser-Smith/Flickr]

  • Shop Up a Storm at Auckland’s Most Fashionable Stores

    When you think fashion destinations you probably think of Paris, Milan, and New York, right? But those big names are so yesterday.

    If you want to return home with a swag of stuff no one else is wearing, consider a fashionable shopping spree in Auckland, New Zealand. Many Kiwi labels are making a name for themselves on the world stage, including Karen Walker, Kate Sylvester, Zambesi, Trelise Cooper, and NomD. All these fashion houses have a handful of stores in Auckland. You'll find many of them in High Street, O'Connell Street, and Vulcan Lane. But you needn't stick to big names, as New Zealand has a host of up-and-coming designers producing exciting apparel. Rather than trawling the stores, consider visiting Miss Crabb who stocks many of these fledgling fashion labels at her New Zealand store. Look out for quirky pieces from Lonely Hearts, Laurie Foon, Stolen Girlfriend’s Club, Hailwood, and Beth Eller. Miss Crabb's store is on Ponsonby Road, which also has a great selection of big name designer shops and smaller boutiques. If you'd prefer to go vintage, or you can't afford brand-new designer threads, it’s worth taking a stroll down St Kevin's Arcade. Fast and Loose has plenty of retro 80s gear, while Vixen No 8 next door always has some fantastic accessories. No matter what your budget, Auckland makes it easy to find an outfit, and the accessories to match, to turn heads back home.

  • Enjoy Adventure Activities in Fiji – Water Sports and Hiking in Polynesian Paradise

    Fiji is a laid back country which jokingly runs on “Fiji Time.” It’s easy to adjust to this relaxed way of life, particularly once you’ve savored a traditional hangi feast, then spent a few hours on a sparkling white beach.

    But Fiji doesn't forget adrenalin junkies, with a range of experiences designed to get your blood pumping. Most adventure activities in Fiji will see your heading to the water. Strap on a snorkel, or a scuba if you’re feeling more daring, and marvel at all the beauty that lies beneath the surface. The country offers some of the best soft-coral diving in the world, and most resorts can organize an expedition for you. The clear waters of Fiji offer an excellent view of the native coral and marine life. If you want to ramp up the excitement consider shark diving in the Bega Lagoon. Surfing is another popular activity in Fiji. The most popular waves are at Cloudbreak, on the southern side of the Mamanuca Islands. There are also breaks nearby at Namotu Left and Wilkes Passage. If you hope to enjoy a surfing vacation you'll need to plan for it though, as access to these popular beaches is restricted to guests of the Tavura Island and Namotu Island Resorts. If you can't afford the sky-high rates of the resorts, the Beqa Barrier Reef and Sigatoka River are popular amongst visiting backpackers. [caption id="attachment_2880" align="alignright" width="150" caption="The national flag of Fiji"]The national flag of Fiji[/caption] If you prefer messing about in boats, you might like to try ocean kayaking or whitewater rafting. Most of the major tourist resorts will loan kayaks to their guests, but if you're serious consider joining an organized tour group. These visit sheltered lagoons around the Yasawa and Kadavu Islands. If you'd prefer to get out of the sheltered waters and experience some real action, whitewater rafting is for you. Rivers Fiji leads rubber raft trips around the Upper Navua Gorge every day but Sunday. These are class III rapids, so leave small children at your resort's kids club and hang onto your hat! But not all of Fiji's adventure activities happen on the ocean. The Polynesian nation has many hiking trails to suit beginners and more experiences trekkers. Koroyanitu National Park has some of the country's best trails. Along the way you can visit the local falls, the Abacu village, and breathtaking Mount Batiluva. If mountains excite you consider climbing the country’s highest summit, Mount Victoria. Most hikers should be able to reach the apex in a day with plenty of time to enjoy the views at the top. For something a little more relaxed, enjoy the coastal walk which runs from Shangri-La's Fijian Resort to Natadola Beach. So don't let resort lethargy set in; Fiji offers plenty of activities to get you moving!

  • Crazy Beer Can Boats at Darwin’s Beer Can Regatta

    We all know Australians enjoy a beer, but what do they do with all those empty cans? Many of them make their way to The Outback for Darwin’s annual Beer Can Regatta.

    This madcap event sees its participants making boats from empty beer cans.

    All boats must pass tests for seaworthiness before setting sail in July or August. But this is no ordinary race. Once the crews are on the water they attempt to do away with the competition in mock battles. Some of the largest boats resemble Viking ships with their fire hoses and weapons, which are always kept under wraps until the big day. While the beer boats are an adults-only affair, children are invited to take part in their own soft drink can vessels. Since the first event in 1974, the Beer Can Regatta has grown to quite a spectacle with musical performances, market stalls, tug-of-war competitions, a thong-throwing contest (that’s the footwear, not the under garments), and the Henley-on-Mindil race all part of the fun. The latter sees competitors running bottomless boats around like the cars in The Flintstones! The 2010 event will be held on August 8, so get yourself to Darwin's Mindil Beach and enjoy the craziness! Or perhaps you could get creative and enter your own beer can boat. All funds raised benefit Darwin-based charities.

  • Traditional Pekingese Dining at Hong Kong’s American Restaurant

    Don’t let the name of Hong Kong’s American Restaurant confuse you. This Wanchai eatery offers some of the country’s best traditional Pekingese dishes, and they don’t come with a serving of fries.

    Since opening its doors after the Second World War, American Restaurant has become a beloved institution.

    In an ever-changing dining landscape it remains unchanged, and that's just what the regular patrons love about it. There are many of those regular patrons that fill the restaurant with a happy buzz no matter the season or time of day. That makes it ideal for a celebration, but not the best choice if you're planning a romantic dinner for two. It's advisable to call in advance for a reservation, particularly if you have a large party. American Restaurant serves up the Asian equivalent of tapas, meals that are designed to be shared amongst those at your table. The dishes are affordably priced between HKD70 and 300, depending upon their size. Foreign diners should have no problem ordering as English menus are provided; the most challenging thing can be deciding what you'll have! When in doubt you can't go wrong with the barbecued Peking duck or sizzling Szechuan chili prawns. American Restaurant is located at 20 Lockhart Road, Wanchai. It's open daily from 11 am to 11 pm.

  • Auckland’s Best Backpacker Accommodation for Travelers on a Budget

    New Zealand is a haven for adventurous young tourists who’d prefer to spend their travel budget on the next big thrill than accommodation.

    Thankfully the major metropolitan center of Auckland offers plenty of great value hostels for the visitors who'd prefer to save their pennies. YHA Auckland Hostel was called one of the country’s best by Frommers, and many of the 50, 000 guests who check in each year. There’s a lot to like about this place, from the location (just five minutes’ walk from the city center) to the features. Guests can choose from basic share rooms to private twins, doubles, and ensuites. The lounge area has a pool table and SKY TV, and you can stay in touch with WiFi access. Beds start at NZ$23 and private rooms start at NZD $82. City Garden Lodge is located in Parnell, on the city's fringes. There are private rooms and share accommodation, including the ladies share option for girls who don’t want mixed company. You can walk to local restaurants and retail stores, and the Link bus service is close by if you want to get to the centre of town. Prices range between NZD$28 and NZD$68 a night.newzealand-money-calculator If you'd prefer to get out of the city altogether consider Verandahs Backpackers Lodge in ritzy Ponsonby. This suburb is pretty exclusive, but rooms here cost between NZD$23 and NZD$50 a night. Add an extra $2 onto the bill if you need to hire towels. The family-run business offers an alternative to the rowdy hostels of the city, with dorm rooms and private suites catering for the "peace seeking traveler." The lodge has two separate villas, each with their own lounge area equipped with a book exchange and computers with internet access. Pentlands Backpackers in Mt Eden offers beds at a comparable price. The standard range of accommodation costs travelers between NZD$28 and NZD$58 a night. Pentlands is another family owned business set in a renovated colonial homestead. While the setting has an old world charm, it offers plenty of modern conveniences including internet access, heated rooms, a video and book library, and a comfortable lounge area. It’s located three kilometers from the city, but Mt Eden has a shopping center if you’re in need of a quick retail fix. These backpackers hostels are the district’s most popular, but they're just the tip of the iceberg. Visit AucklandNZ to discover more of the city's affordable accommodation options.

  • Best World Cup Soccer Merchandise

    With the much anticipated 2010 Soccer World Cup less than a month away, merchandise is flying off the shelves, so you should make sure you get the best items available to support your favorite team and as memorabilia of your trip to South Africa for this historic event.

    With the vast number of options you have, it will be rather hard to just pick a few items, so you should find out more about the ultimate keepsakes. First of all, a huge accessory that people are buying in support of the soccer, are mirror socks for their cars. This is great to be seen out and about with your country’s flag proudly sticking out the sides of your car. They are also small and convenient to take home with you, as well as being very useful, not like other items which will just get thrown at the back of your closet. When you go to the shops in South Africa, you can be sure that each aisle, and in fact, most products are decorated with soccer images, and supporting the World Cup in some way or another. You can purchase huge soccer ball toys, soccer ball chocolates, soccer ball inspired braais (enclosed barbeque grills), soccer ball shaped drinking glasses, hats, flags, fold up chairs, cooler bags, and clothing galore, all "soccerised." It’s a lot to take in, so what you have to be aware of is where to buy the merchandise and which are the best items to choose. Now, of course you will want to get a piece of clothing to remind you of the World Cup and it is great because you can wear it over and over. Hoodies, jerseys, scarves, and t-shirts are all popular options. Stores in South Africa like Sportsman’s Warehouse, a nationwide chain store, will stock tons of great World Cup gear, but a lot of the most affordable merchandise will be sold by street vendors. You can find them on just about every street and intersection in each town. You can also find some great merchandise including keyrings, balls, hats, and much more at the local markets. Every day of the week, in Cape Town, you can find just what you are looking for at Greenmarket Square. On Sundays, you can take a drive down to Muizenberg to the Muizenberg Market at Sunrise Beach. In Johannesburg you can visit the Bruma Lake Flea Market, which is the largest market in the area, with others including the Rooftop Market every Sunday, and the Newtown Market Africa across from the Market Theatre. Durban offers an array of markets that you can choose to purchase your Soccer World Cup merchandise from. The Umkhumbane Flea Market is relatively new, but a big hit, while the Amphitheater Flea Market still being the most popular situated along the Durban Beachfront each Sunday. [caption id="attachment_3780" align="alignright" width="275" caption="Find the Best World Cup Gear"]Find the Best World Cup Gear[/caption] These three cities also boast the international airports in South Africa and when arriving, you can be sure that World Cup 2010 fever will greet you – and perhaps a Diski dancer or two! You could probably get all your World Cup attire and memorabilia just at the airport, but what fun would that be, right? Visiting the heart of each city and getting to know the people is what will make your trip much more interesting. Don’t forget that the fan parks will also sell tons of merchandise, as well as at the stadiums on each match day. If you are a bit strapped for cash, you can always bargain with the vendors at the intersections who are all selling World Cup merchandise already. You just have to watch out for the fake merchandise which has already started appearing, with Johannesburg police seizing $1.7 million worth of fake t-shirts, thought to have come from China. Once you are all set with your official World Cup 2010 t-shirts, jerseys, car mirror socks, keyrings, scarves, gloves, and of course the legendary vuvuzelas, you will be ready to have the time of your life and get some great mementos to take back home with you.

  • Walk the Sacred Path of Kumano Kodo in Japan

    For a hiking experience with a difference, consider taking the spiritual path of Kumano Kodo in the Kii Mountains near Osaka, Japan.

    The walking trail has the awesome views all explorers crave, and a cavalcade of sacred sites to boot. The track has been walked by Japanese emperors since the 10th century. In 2004 it was approved as a pilgrimage walk by UNESCO, joining Spain's Way of St James as the only trek with this status at the time. Kumano Kodo reflects Japan's diverse spiritual paths, with a mix of Buddhist and Shinto shrines. Unlike many walks, there is no single track to follow. Instead it's made up of collection of main thoroughfares and smaller subtracks. Tea house and protector shrines are interspersed with the larger sacred sites, Kumano Sanzan and the three Japanese temples known as the Three Grand Shines of Kumano.[caption id="attachment_3767" align="alignright" width="150" caption="Plan a Japan Trip"]Map of Japan[/caption] To walk the entire track would be a massive undertaking taking around six weeks. Most tourists instead opt for a shorter day visit or multi-day trek. The Kumano Kudo tourist website suggests a number of routes for tourists to follow. After a long day hiking the mountains, soaking in one of the four hot springs scattered on the trail is the perfect way to ease your tired muscles. While you can follow your own path, those preferring to experience Kumano Kodo with a group can book a tour with Kumano Experience.