Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta & Santa Fe
40's - 50's and 60's+ Singles Vacation
October 5-9, 2023

$1950*
Don't Miss this singles weekend that takes us to the wonders of New Mexico! Meet new friends and make memories as we travel from Albuquerque to Santa Fe. Watch hundreds of balloons ascend at day break, then feel the excitement of the world famous Albuquerque Balloon Festival at night.

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Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Singles Weekend Itinerary
Vacation Day 1: Arrive Albuquerque, New Mexico
Your Singles Vacation begins when you arrive in Albuquerque and are transferred to your hotel. Meet your Singles Host at 6:30 pm in the lobby for a meet and greet and dinner at the hotel (not included).

Vacation Day 2: Santa Fe, New Mexico
After breakfast at hotel, we head to Santa Fe. We’ll head north along the picturesque Jemez Mountains to Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the United States. You can visit one of the wonders of Santa Fe’s historic district, Loretto Chapel. Constructed in 1873, this striking Gothic chapel houses the Miraculous Staircase, a marvel of architectural ingenuity that some claim was designed and built by St. Joseph himself! For the shoppers, Santa Fe is a South Western haven. Governor’s Plaza is home to various shops and artists studios.

After our fun day in Santa Fe we will coach back to Albuquerque and transferred directly to tonight's festivities.
Tonight we enjoy the Balloon Glow, a signature Fiesta event that’s guaranteed to set the night sky ablaze. Just before dusk, nearly 500 balloons are tethered over the fiesta grounds. In unison, the pilots set their burners aglow, creating a luminous, magical display, followed by a spectacular fireworks show. It’s a pyrotechnical display you’ll not soon forget. You can also get your fill of junk food at the festival.
Tonight it is time to relax after our wonderful day. Order a pizza or walk to a local restaurant for dinner

Vacation Day 3: Albuquerque Balloon Festival
Wake Up Early! Today we attend the Balloon Fiesta Opening Ceremonies and “Mass Ascension” at sunrise. A sight not to be missed.
Up, Up, and Away! imagine a blue sky filled with a kaleidoscope of dazzling colors and shapes. That’s what you’ll experience at the world’s largest balloon event, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Your spirits will soar as you watch more than 700 balloons from all over the world ascend into the skies over Albuquerque. Rise bright and early to witness the Opening Ceremonies, which are followed by a grand “mass ascension,” as hundreds of balloons – some vibrant, some whimsical – fill the skies over the grounds.
After the balloons are gone... Enjoy lunch before we ride the Sandia Peak Tramway! Sandia Mountain dominates the east-side of Albuquerque with its 5,000’ vertical rise. A visit to the top of this mountain is a much sought after experience by visitors. The tram ride itself is 15-minutes and travels through a few biological life zones, revealing deep canyons and an awe-inspiring view not soon to be forgotten. Notes: Due to the elevation, 10,378’, individuals with heart conditions or respiratory problems should consult their doctor before riding the tram. Dress in layers; the temperature can be 20 degrees cooler than in the city.
After our fun day in Santa Fe we will coach back to Albuquerque and transferred directly to tonight's festivities.
Tonight we enjoy the Balloon Glow, a signature Fiesta event that’s guaranteed to set the night sky ablaze. Just before dusk, nearly 500 balloons are tethered over the fiesta grounds. In unison, the pilots set their burners aglow, creating a luminous, magical display, followed by a spectacular fireworks show. It’s a pyrotechnical display you’ll not soon forget. You can also get your fill of junk food at the festival.

Vacation Day 4: Old Town Albuquerque
Morning free to take a hot air balloon ride, relax or explore on your own. Then it is time to journey back in time in old town, established as a colonial farming village in 1706, Albuquerque’s Old Town neighborhood still bears the mark of its Spanish founders. Through narrow brick pathways to Spanish-style plazas and 18th-century adobe architecture, explore the heritage of Albuquerque’s varied past.
Late afternoon enjoy our Farewell to Albuquerque Dinner at El Pinto Mexican Restaurant. Established in 1962, El Pinto has been featuring traditional New Mexican recipes from grandmother Josephina Chavez-Griggs ever since. Tonight we enjoy the Balloon Glow, a signature Fiesta event that’s guaranteed to set the night sky ablaze. Just before dusk, nearly 500 balloons are tethered over the fiesta grounds. In unison, the pilots set their burners aglow, creating a luminous, magical display, followed by a spectacular fireworks show. It’s a pyrotechnical display you’ll not soon forget. You can also get your fill of junk food at the festival.

Vacation Day 5: Depart Albuquerque
Our wonderful singles weekend in Albuquerque comes to an end. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before you are transfered to the airport according to your individual flight schedules. Have a safe flight home.   

Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta Singles Weekend

Dates: September 30 - October 4, 2020      Price: $1,950* Singles Weekend Includes * 4 Nights Accommodations * 2 Breakfasts - 1 Lunch - 1 Dinner * Balloon Fiesta and Glow Admission * Best Single Travel Leader * Activities and Admissions per itinerary * Airport/Hotel Transfers on Tour Dates * All Taxes and Surcharges *The price per person is for a double room. Best Single Travel provides free roommate matching on all our vacations, so there is never a need to pay a "single supplement". If you wish to room alone it is an additional $600 Not Included * Airfare * Tips

Deposit $300 Balance Due July 30, 2021 FAQ and Cancellation Policy

Croatia Trip Information and What to Pack

For Your Croatian Trip

Your cruise starts in Italy which is officially called the Italian Republic and is the 4th most populous EU member state with 61 million inhabitants. Located in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Italy shares  land borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, San Marino and Vatican City. Due to its shape and location it has a largely temperate seasonal climate. Italy is a member of the European Union.

We suggest taking a free walking tour in Venice if you have time before you board.  Here are some links to help find a tour to fit your schedule.  The tours are free but don't forget to tip the guide.

Venice Free Walking Tour - http://venicefreewalkingtour.com/

Free Tour Venice - http://freetourvenice.com/

Free Walk in Venice - http://www.freewalkinvenice.org/

Slovenia, a country in Central Europe, is known for its mountains, outdoor recreation and ski resorts. Set on a glacial lake fed by thermal springs, the town of Bled contains a church-topped islet and a cliffside medieval castle.  It is local lore that when get to the church you must ring the bell and make a wish for good things to happen.  The beautiful Julian Alps offer skiing and hiking.  

Croatia, officially the Republic of Croatia, is a sovereign state at the crossroads of Central Europe, Southeast Europe, and the Mediterranean. Its capital city is Zagreb.  Croatia is a member of the European Union (EU). It covers 35,165 miles (56,594 kilometers) and has diverse, mostly continental and Mediterranean climates. Croatia's Adriatic Sea coast contains more than a thousand islands. The country's population is 4.28 million, most of whom are Croats, with the most common religious denomination being Roman Catholicism. It is best known for its beautiful waterways between the many islands.  It is a popular tourist destination and sailing area.

Greece is a country in southeastern Europe consisting of 2 mainland peninsulas and thousands of islands throughout the Aegean and Ionian seas. It's often called the birthplace of Western civilization, and Athens, its capital, retains ancient landmarks including the 5th-century-BC Acropolis citadel and Parthenon temple. Greece is also known for its beaches, from the black sands of Santorini to the party resorts of Mykonos.

Turkey is a nation straddling eastern Europe and western Asia with cultural connections to ancient Greek, Persian, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Cosmopolitan Istanbul, on the Bosphorus Strait, is home to the iconic Hagia Sophia, with its soaring dome and Christian mosaics, the massive 17th-century Blue Mosque and the circa-1460 Topkap? Palace, former home of sultans. Ankara is Turkey’s modern capital.

Montenegro is a small Balkan country with rugged mountains, medieval villages and a narrow strip of beaches along its Adriatic coastline. The Bay of Kotor, resembling a fjord, is dotted with coastal churches and fortified towns such as Kotor and Herceg Novi. Durmitor National Park encompasses limestone peaks, glacial lakes, wildlife such as bears and wolves, and 4,265 feet-deep Tara River Canyon.

What to pack for your Croatia Cruise

Choosing what to bring with you on a trip is personal.  Therefore we do not provide a comprehensive packing list that works for everyone.  We offers some essentials and suggestions: (Please also refer to our general packing information) add link 

Passport and Visa:

Leave a copy of your passport and documents with your emergency contact person at home.  Also carry an extra copy with you in case yours is lost while traveling.

PLEASE NOTE THIS INFORMATION WAS VALID AT TIME OF POSTING.  IT IS THE TRAVELERS' RESPONSIBILITY TO BE SURE THEY ARE IN COMPLIANCE WITH THEIR GOVERNMENT'S PASSPORT AND VISA REGULATIONS.

A. S.  & Canadian Citizens:

For this cruise you will need a USA or Canadian passport with at least six months remaining validity.

There must be one or two blank pages for each country you will be visiting.  Below is listed the countries you will visit and whether you will need to acquire a visa.  It is your responsibility to be sure you have all documents required for entry into each country. You may be refused boarding if your documentation is not complete. No refunds are given by the cruise line or Best Single Travel if you are denied passage or fined.

Italy - No visa required Turkey -   You must secure a visa. - Go online to  Slovenia - No visa required                   https://www.evisa.gov.tr/en/  to obtain   

   Montenegro - No visa required   your visa.  Read all the easy steps.

Croatia - No visa required Croatia - No visa required

Greece - No visa required Italy - No visa required

The above visa information was correct at time of writing.  You are responsible to be sure it is correct at the time of your departure and to secure the appropriate documents.

United States citizens carrying an official (maroon cover) passport must also present a valid diplomatic or personal (blue or green cover) passport in some countries.

Non-US Citizens:  Check with your government's passport and visa offices for current regulations.

Luggage Restrictions:

Airlines: Travelers must check with your air carrier for their luggage restrictions to avoid overweight fines.  Be sure you also check on the restrictions for carry-on luggage. We recommend one medium size suitcase and one carry-on bag.

Remember the 3 -1- 1 Rule requiring all liquids and gels in your carry-on luggage be placed in a 1-quart Ziploc bag.  Each liquid or gel must not exceed 3.4 ounces per container. You are only allowed one 1-quart bag.  Other liquids or gels may be stored in your checked luggage.

Being Prepared for Your Cruise: 

Log-in to Royal Caribbean.com to find your cruise and become familiar with the suggestions for getting ready for your cruise.

The link below takes you to the Mediterranean Cruise:

http://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruises/10NightMediterraneanVarietyCruise-RH10M144?currencyCode=USD&sCruiseType=CO&sDateMin=2016-05-03&sDateMax=2016-05-13&sailDate=05%2F03%2F2016

Scroll down to the bottom of the page for all the information .  Be sure to read the Before You Cruise, for things like Online Check-in and What to Pack, etc.

 Local Currency, ATMs & Credit Cards:

 Italy, Slovenia, Greece and Montenegro all use the Euro for their currency.

The Croatian Kuna is the currency of Croatia.  The currency code for Kuna is HRK, and the currency symbol is kn.   

The Turkish Lira is the currency of Turkey.  The currency code for Lira is TRY, and the currency symbol is .

How to purchase Euros and other currency-

Buy Currency - https://www.foreignmoney.com/bestsingletravel
Top reasons you need to exchange your money before you go:  No bank charges - Arrive prepared - Competitive exchange rates - Orders are fully Insured - Orders delivered to your home or office - One more thing checked off your list before you leave!

ATMs & Credit cards -

Please remember to contact your credit card company to advise that you will be traveling on a cruise in Europe, so they do not cancel your card due to possible international fraud.  Also check about fees for using ATMs in the countries you will be visiting. You may be charged a transaction fee for charges and/or obtaining cash. Be sure you have a 4 digit code for your debit card.

Local Time:

The time in Italy, where the cruise starts, is on Central European Time (CET) and is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC).  Italy uses Daylight Savings Time in the summer. Moving the time one hour ahead.  Daylight savings time starts in Italy on Sunday, March 27, 2:00 AM.

Weather:  

The weather in Croatia should be warm and sunny in May, with pleasant weather throughout the cruise. It is always a good idea to bring a sweater for the evenings and a jacket in case of rain.

Electric Plugs:

From US and Canada -- 

All of the Royal Caribbean ships are equipped with North American standard, 110 volts AC and standard European 220/230 volts AC outlets.

Health:

it is important that you are in good physical condition for this tour.  We strongly urge that you visit your doctor prior to your trip to be sure you are in good health.  Be sure to bring a sufficient supply of your prescription medications in their original containers.  We suggest that you prepare by taking local walks prior to the trip.

 Sun Exposure: 

It is important that you bring sunscreen and a protective hat .  We suggest a minimum of 15 SPF and apply often.

Clothes:

 Be sure to review the packing list provided by Royal Caribbean for type of dress required for dinning and other good suggestions: http://www.royalcaribbean.com/beforeyouboard/whatToKnow/whatToPack.do

Footwear:

Bring well broken-in comfortable shoes that give you good support for walking.  Sandals with good support are great for warmer weather.

In the Water:

Bring your bathing suit, cover-up, hat with brim, flip-flops and sunscreen.

Camera and Binoculars:

Bring your camera, extra batteries, charger and don't forget the necessary cords.  We recommend you bring extra memory cards to be sure to have ones that fit your specific camera.

Phone & Internet:

For information on using your cell phone while on the ship check this link:

http://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2015/08/25/using-your-cell-phone-royal-caribbean-cruise

Shopping:

Shopping on a cruise ship can be expensive.  For souvenirs we recommend purchasing items while you are on land in the interesting countries you will be visiting.  We recommend you bring a fold up bag or day pack for when you are sightseeing. Also a medium sized fold up duffle to carry  those purchases home on the plane.

Other Tips:

1. Pair your outfits, put them in their own Ziploc bags, and squeeze all the air out before you zip them closed.  You'll have an easier time fitting more clothes into the suitcase.

2. Clean out your wallet before your cruise.  Take only the cards and ID you will need for the cruise and on shore excursion.

3. To prevent liquid travel products from leaking place a square of plastic wrap over the open top of the bottle, then screw the cap on.  You can then add tape over the top. Put several bottles in Ziploc bags.

4. Soap, shampoo and conditioner.  Most cruise lines now feature wall-mounted generic liquid soap dispensers in the shower.  If you are particular what you use we suggest you pack your own.

5.Many cruise ship cabins don't come with alarm clocks, so bring your own. If you're using your cell phone for this job, put it in airplane mode so you don't incur roaming charges in foreign waters.

6. Since space is short in the bathrooms some passengers bring a hook-over-the-door shoe-bag that can hold things like your hairdryer, brushes and other toiletries conveniently.

7.In order to keep track of the daily schedules and papers, bring a magnetic clip that you can hook to the door and never misplace those items.

8. Some staterooms do not have adequate light for reading so a small clip-on book light is very handy.  It also can be used for finding your way to the bathroom at night without waking your roommate. 

9. Bring extra Ziploc bags as they come in handy.  Also plastic grocery bags work well to wrap your shoes in to protect your clothing,

Belize Travel Information, Tips and More

Country Information
Belize has a Caribbean laid back feel and the official language is English. Belize was once home to at least one million Mayans, and their stunning architecture with hidden tombs and offerings remain today. Altun Ha, Caracol, Lamanai, and Xunantunich are the most popular

Passport and Visa

No visas are required for citizens of the United States or Canada for tourist visits of up to 30 days, but they must have proof of their intent to depart Belize (such as onward or return air tickets) and proof of sufficient funds to maintain themselves in Belize. However, is it essential that all travellers arrive with a passport that is valid for at least six months from the time you enter Belize.

Currency

The Belize dollar is the official currency in Belize (currency code BZD). It is normally abbreviated with the dollar sign $, or alternatively BZ$ to distinguish it from other dollar-denominated currencies. It is divided into 100 cents. The official value is pegged at 2 BZ$ = 1 US$ - U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere
While many restaurants, tour companies, and shops accept credit cards, there's often a hefty tax to do so. ATMs are in every major city and island, so it's not difficult to find one to withdraw Belize money. Also be sure to clarify if the price quoted is in Belize or U.S. dollars.

Water
Do not drink the water or brush your teeth with tap water - bottled water only!  Tap water isn't generally considered safe to drink, even in most cities and popular tourist towns. The water in Belize City and San Ignacio is relatively safe to drink, but travelers often get a touch of diarrhea whenever they hit a foreign country, so always play it safe.

Time

Belize in CST (Central Standard Time) and does not do daylight savings time.

Electric Plugs

Belize uses 110 volt, 60 cycle electricity, same as the US. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat type so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. Outlets rarely have 3 holes so if your device has a third prong, bring an adapter. 

Immunizations Recommended or Required?
No immunizations are currently required for visiting Belize except a yellow fever certificate if you are arriving in Belize after visiting an infected area, such as the Amazon. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended. Medications to prevent malaria are also recommended, though some travelers opt not to take them. For the most current information, please consult your doctor and/or check out the Center for Disease Control.

Weather

The best time to visit Belize is from late November to mid-April, during the country's dry season. Although this peak season draws thousands of tourists, dealing with crowds is an easy sacrifice to make for warm temperatures, clear skies and easy access to the country's top attractions. The rainy season runs from June to November when annual Belize rainfall is highest.

What to Pack for Your Belize Vacation

Go for comfort and style. This is a chilled out country where dress is relaxed and you dress to keep cool. It's hot and humid so casual clothes in lightweight natural fabrics (cotton, silk and linen) will work best.

However the nights tend to be a little cooler on the coast or in the jungle so a sweater or wrap is worth packing
For the beaches, daytime essentials include t-shirts or camisoles, sarong and shorts and of course your bathing suit.

Packing Checklist

5 to 7 shirts (short sleeve, sleeveless, cool & easy to dry)

Thin long-sleeve shirts (protection from sun & insects)

Shorts

Long pants (jeans or khakis, nylon)

Skirts or dress (not too dressy but cool)

Bathing suits

Underwear

Sandals (waterproof is good, but not necessary)

Closed toed shoes (tennis or hiking)

Socks

Sleepwear

Rain gear

Lightweight sweater or jacket

Bring Plastic Bags - for wet clothes

Remember your sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect/mosquito repellent.

Wipes & hand sanitizer: There isn’t always soap available!  Toilet paper (Tissues) is sometimes hard to find!

Island Time

The "Go Slow" motto of Caye Caulker is a good indicator of the laid-back vibe and Caribbean-like spirit that pervades Belize. Many restaurants are seat yourself and followed by flagging someone down for a menu. Plus, turnaround time from when you order to when the food arrives is undoubtedly going to be longer than your neighborhood eatery. Have a snorkeling tour planned? Don't be surprised if your group departs 20 minutes after the scheduled time. Just remember that you're on vacation and there to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere

Mobile Phones

Nowadays it’s relatively easy to use your own mobile phone in Belize, however, the costs of both making and receiving phone calls can be high. Please check with your carrier for availability and rates.

Internet Service
Belize has several Internet service providers offering different types of connection. There are satellite providers that primarily provide service to the rural areas. There is also DSL, cable, and just recently, fiber optics.

It should be understood that Belize is by no means on par or even close to the internet speed in developed countries. Also it should be understood that to achieve “fast” speeds costs A LOT to even be considered half the standard speeds in the US.

Shopping in Belize
Many travelers believe that the lack of malls and department stores in Belize makes the country not good for shopping, but vacationers will be pleasantly surprised.

Be on the lookout for..
Belizean spices, rubs, sauces, and beverages; cookbooks, housewares made from local products, and linens hand sewn by native seamstresses; hand beaded jewelry, wood carvings, clay figurines and more. Marie Sharp's Hot Sauce, Creole inspired shell necklaces, cashew wine, Mayan slate paintings, and Garifuna dolls are also great gifts.

Basket weaving is an old tradition of Mayan women and each basket is unique and the intricate designs take days to make.
One barrel rum is sweet and spicy. It is considered the best rum in Belize and Belikin beer - Belize's national brew in either lager or stout

Local Foods

Rice, beans, tortillas, tropical fruit, and fresh vegetables are some of the standard foods that travelers can expect in Belize. Much of the cuisine is borrowed from Mexico, the US, the UK, and the Caribbean.

What to Pack For Your Kenya Safari and Trip Tips
Migration Time

The Big Five
The "Big Five" is the leopard, lion, elephant, rhino and buffalo and a must see for most safari-goers.

Visa

Visas are required for all visitors to Kenya, EXCEPT for Nationals of the following countries who do NOT need a Kenya visa:

Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Botswana, Brunei-Darussalam, Cyprus, Dominica, Ethiopia, Fiji Islands, Gambia, Ghana, Grenada, Jamaica, Kiribati, Lesotho, Malawi, Maldives, Mauritius, Namibia, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, San Marino, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Solomon Islands, St Lucia, St Vincent & The Grenadines, Swaziland, Tanzania, Tonga, Turkey, Tuvalu, Uganda.

Visas can be obtained at the airport upon arrival in Kenya, or from the Kenyan Embassies prior to departure. Currently the visa fee is $50. If you obtain the visa on arrival at the airport, payment must be made in US dollars, the immigration officers do not accept credit cards or travelers' cheques, so you will need to have the exact amount in cash. The visa is valid for three months, allowing return into Kenya from Tanzania or Uganda at no extra fee.

Money
Kenyan Shilling (KES; symbol KSh) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of KSh1,000, 500, 200, 100 and 50. Coins are in denominations of KSh 20, 10 and 5. Currency can be exchanged at the major banks, bureaux de change or authorised hotels. The banks at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Moi International Airport have 24-hour exchange services. MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted.

Time
Kenya is on EAT (East Africa Time)
7 hours ahead of EST / 10 hours ahead of PST

Electric Plugs
Electrical outlets in Kenya are the "Type G " British BS-1363 type, three-prong plugs and usually supply electricity at 220 AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input then an adapter is all you need. 
North American’s will need an electrical converter that not only changes the currency but also has the correct Kenya plugs.

Weather

During Migration Season, the temperature will vary from the low 50’s to the low 80’s with little to no rain at all.

What to Pack for Your African Safari
This is a very casual trip – comfortable clothes are recommended. Pack as lightly as possible, but be prepared for climates that change from region to region. Temperatures will also change between midday heat to evening cool, so plan to dress in layers.

The worst possible colors to pack on safari are white and black. Neutrally toned colors are the order of the day. The aim of any safari is to blend in as much as possible, so that you do not disturb the wildlife you are viewing. This ensures that you are able to watch animals behaving naturally, and not running away from you (or towards you, which is certainly not ideal!). White is the most conspicuous color on safari, and you will be seen from a mile away. This is most true while walking! White clothing should be avoided as it stands out against the muted browns and green tones of Africa. Please also do not pack safari clothing that is blue or black in color, they attract flies. The ideal colors for safari travel include Olive, Stone, Khaki and Mushroom. For the majority of African countries please do not pack camouflage safari clothing as camouflage clothing is illegal attire for civilians, and this law is strictly enforced. 

Some travellers have asked why color is such an issue, when African tribesmen (for example the Masaai) wear bright colors in the bush. The answer is simple - they are not looking to view and photograph wildlife. Their main concern is protecting their cattle from attack by predators, and so they want to stand out as much as possible when in the bush (this assists them in chasing wild animals away from their precious livestock). 

All suitcases need to go on the top of jeep when traveling between game parks, so only one small to medium suitcase and an overnight bag are allowed.

* Comfortable shoes, tennis shoes with plenty of tread, sandals

* Pants/Shorts/Skirts/ long and short sleeved shirts – good for layering – hot days – cooler nights
* Tank Tops, Underwear, socks
* Bathing suit and cover up

* Light jacket or sweaters – great for cooler evenings.

* Travel-size shampoo and conditioner, toothbrush and paste. Moisturizer – remember to pack in your suitcase – only 3 ounces or less allowed in carry-ons

* Contact lenses and/or extra pair of sunglasses

* Sunblock of at least 15 SPF – don’t forget the lips

* Hat for the sun

* Camera and charger – batteries – extra memory cards (be prepared to take hundreds of photos)
* Binoculars
* Flashlight

* Cell Phone - computer chargers/adaptors

* Hair Dryers – flat irons – don’t count on all hotels having them available when you want to use them

* Chargers and Adaptors for all your electronics

* Personal medications / Anti-itch cream for insects bites

* Pepto-Bismol for diarrhea, Throat lozenges, Aspirin/Ibuprofen, Antacid tablets

* Ear plugs, Eye Mask (for light sleepers)

* Plastic bags (zip lock bags and a larger trash bag) to store wet things.

* Travel alarm clock or can use cell phone

* Books, movies on you Ipad...  the River Lodge has wifi but no tv’s in your room

Depending on the time of year you go on safari depends on whether you will need mosquito repellent as well as anti-histamine and lotion for insect bites. If you are taking anti-malaria's, don't forget to bring them too!

Please note: Domestic airlines do impose restrictions on checked baggage at approx 45lbs maximum, so travel lightly where possible. 

Phones
Nowadays it’s relatively easy to use your own mobile phone in Africa, however, the costs of both making and receiving phone calls can be high. Texting is a more economical way to contact others. Please check with your carrier for availability and rates.

While in Kenya, if you would like to use your phone for the internet, only when there is free internet, turn your phone to airplane mode. 

Roaming agreements exist with international mobile phone companies. The main network providers are Airtel (www.africa.airtel.com), and Safaricom (www.safaricom.co.ke). Local SIM cards and top-up cards are available to buy everywhere. Wide areas around Nairobi, Kisumu and Mombasa, as well as the whole coast region, the popular safari parks and the road between Nairobi and Mombasa, have good network coverage. Outside of these areas coverage is limited.

Shopping
The city and town centers usually have markets that sell curios such as African drums, old brass and copper, batiks, soapstone knick-knacks, carved chess sets, and large wooden carvings of animals or salad bowls carved from a single piece of teak, mninga or ebony.

Masai items such as beaded jewellery, decorated gourds and the distinctive red-checked blankets worn by all Masai men make good souvenirs. Khanga, kitenge and kikoi cloths are ideal to use as sarongs (common in East Africa for both men and women), and Kenyan baskets made from sisal and leather are also popular. Most of the tourist areas have abundant stalls and markets selling these items; you will be expected to haggle good-natured over prices.

Local Foods
Meat in Kenya is outstandingly good, as are tropical fruit and vegetables. Inland, a local freshwater fish, tilapia is popular and tasty. On the coast Swahili cuisine features fragrant rice, grilled fish and seafood curries with coconut milk. Indian and Middle Eastern food is available in most areas, and there is a wide range of international restaurants in Nairobi and Mombasa. Tourist hotels provide buffet meals. Hotels in smaller towns offer a dish of the day, such as chicken and chips or stew and rice.

Very Important

* Do not carry a lot of cash, you will not need it and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere

* Money – Debit/Credit cards - be sure to have your PIN numbers.
* Call your banks and credit companies and let them know you are traveling

* We do not advise to take Travelers Checks, they are hard to exchange

* A copy of your passport is always a good idea to leave with your emergency contacts
* Best Single Travel suggests that you visit your Doctor before your trip.

Don’t Leave Home without your Passport!

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About Best Single Travel

Best Single Travel was incorporated in Arizona in 2007 by Sheryl Weinberger and is now physically located in Daytona Beach, Florida.

10 Reasons to Vacation with Best Single Travel
1.  You will vacation with a group of friendly singles while traveling to the most amazing International destinations
2.  Check off another vacation from your bucket list as Best Single Travel has the largest selection of singles vacations and cruises
3.  Our vacations are divided into different age groups
4.  Our local guides are very knowledgeable and will share their love of their country with you
5.  90% of our travelers come alone on their first vacation and then travel again with us
6.  You will never be charged a single supplement, we offer free roommate matching
7.  Cruise Thailand, visit a chateau in France, safari in Kenya, relax at an all inclusive Cancun resort - the type of vacation is up to you
8.  Take a Best Single Travel vacation and never eat alone, sightsee alone or shop by yourself unless of course you want to
9.  Explore amazing cultures and discover the history of countries both far and near
10. Make Friends and Memories for Life on Best Single Travel Vacations

Sheryl Weinberger, the owner of Best Single Travel (BST) has been traveling on singles vacations since 2003 and had been on over 10 singles trips and cruises before starting BST. Sheryl has now traveled to more then 40 countries world-wide. In 2007 Sheryl found herself alone in Singapore and decided at that moment no one should ever have to vacation alone unless they wanted to. Best Single Travel was started that summer with just one Meetup group and has been growing ever since.

Our Mailing Address

7746 Thornlee Dr
Lake Worth, FL 33467
 

Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST37980