Top Ten European Tours

Posted on May 10, 2012 by admin

With so much to see in Europe, it can be a bit tough to choose what the right tour is for you. Unless you have a large spending allowance to travel, and all the time in the world, you probably won’t be able to see it all; however here is a list of the top 10 tours you can go on to ensure you are getting your money’s worth and seeing as much of Europe as possible according to your budget.

No. 1 ) The Grand European Tour is a 28-day tour brought to you by Topdeck Travel. With this tour, travelers will visit 13 different countries that include; France, Croatia, Spain, Germany, Monaco, Switzerland, Slovenia Austria, Belgium, Italy, Vatican City, and Netherlands. A combination of stays in hotels, hostels, and bungalows will be included in the package available at $3570+ per person.

No.2 ) The Eastern European Experience Tour from Tuscan Travel comes in as the number two tour to take in Europe. Available starting at $1730 per person, this tour will take you through the countries of; Bulgaria, Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Bosnia, and Herzegovina. Also, travelers will be passing through the lesser known parts of the Balkan Peninsula.

No. 3 ) The Hop-on-Hop-off West Loop Tour from Busabout offers travelers a trip that will take them through the best parts of Spain, France, and Switzerland. Although this tour does not include accommodations, prices start at $695 per person and depend on the length of your stay abroad. Passengers are free to hope on and off the bus throughout their tour.

No.4 ) The Baltic Experience Tour is brought to you by Intrepid Travel. Coming in at number four, this tour will offer a journey through Germany, Latvia, Poland, Estonia, Lithuania, and Finland. This tour is available to travelers at a starting rate of $2600 per person.

No. 5 ) The Highland Fling Tour by Haggis Adventures takes you through the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye. Travelers will experience the history here as well as amazing scenery. Not including accommodation this tour starts at $330.

No.6 ) The Sail Croatia Tour comes in at number 6. This tour is a part of Travel Talk Tours. It is an eight-day sail through the perfect scenery, beaches and sunsets of Croatia at a price of around $386 per person.

No. 7 ) Shamrock Adventures brings you the All Ireland Rocker Tour. This is a seven-day tour that explores both North and South Ireland and neighboring islands that are hidden to most travelers off the West coast. You will find this tour at a price of $553 and up.

No. 8 ) Live like a local with the Tuscany Local Living Tour. This seven day tour through Tuscany will teach you the fundamentals of Tuscan shopping and cooking. The G Adventures tour will set you back around $1260.

No. 9 ) The European Wonder Tour lasts 14 days brought to you by Topdeck Tours. Tourists will travel through; France, Switzerland, Italy, Vatican City, Austria, Germany, Netherlands and Belgium all for around $1860 per person.

No. 10 ) The last trip on our list is Intrepid Travels ‘Europe Wonderland Tour’. This is a 15-day tour where travelers will visit Austria, Germany, Netherlands, and Belgium. The tour will be focused on the art, architecture, traditional cuisine, and travelers will have the opportunity to mingle with the local people in these countries. The price of this trip will start at around $2915 per person.

The thought of missing out on amazing European vacations such as these makes owning a timeshare sound pretty horrible according to speculation. The maintenance fees and special assessments seem to rise and rise without warning; making it practically impossible for many families to afford their vacation ownerships. If you’re looking for a way out of your contract, Transfer on the Spot can help you out.

Top Five Cruise Ideas For Adventure Travelers

Posted on April 6, 2012 by admin

With an “Adventure Cruise” you will be placed on a smaller ship, there will be fewer amenities, but you will have access to more sites that larger ships cannot go to such as: small islands, bays, inlets, and shorelines.

Below you will find a compiled list of the top five best adventure cruises.

The Nile: Being the longest river in the world, you will sail down a 124 mile stretch. You will be in awe as you pass through the vast deserts, tiny villages, ancient landmarks, and the ancient Egyptian cities of Aswan and Luxor. Many of these sites would be difficult to reach by land, so travelers should consider it a privilege to view them. Depending on the cruise operator, your stops may vary, but you will more than likely view the two most popular temples Kom Ombo and Edfu.

Iceland: Iceland is known for its extreme environment. With its dramatic volcanic eruptions, lush countryside, and pristine glaciers; travelers will have amazing views no matter what area your cruise ventures into.

Antarctica: The wildlife alone should entice you to take this cruise. You will experience orca whales, penguins, leopard seals, sea lions, and an array of seabird species. You would not be able to experience these locations by land travel, so this cruise gives you plenty of opportunity to see sites that others would not be so fortunate to see. This cruise is one of if not the top adventure cruise to take.

Canals of Southern France: Passing through French wine country, you will have picturesque views of the villages, historic castles, rolling countryside, and beautiful vineyards. You will be able to explore these amazing landmarks as your ship makes it’s stops throughout the south of France.

Galapagos Islands: The only way you will be able to see all of the islands of Galapagos worth seeing is by way of small ship. There are only a few of the islands that are actually inhabited. There is only one airport for all the islands inhabitants, so being on the cruise is considered a floating hotel for its passengers. You will go from island to island exploring with expert guided tours on shore.

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Top Five Travel Scams Across The Globe, Summer Travelers Beware

Posted on March 15, 2012 by admin

It is easy to get distracted while traveling to a foreign or unfamiliar place. The culprits committing these scams are anyone from the locals, cab drivers, and even some businesses who feel they can take advantage of visitors. Here are the scams to watch out for this summer, and ways to avoid them on your next trip.

Travel Scam #1- Currency Exchange

Exchanging foreign currency can be very confusing for many travelers who are not knowledgeable in the difference of money in each country. Local con artists are very aware of this confusion and use it to their advantage to scam you out of your money. When you arrive to your destination abroad, first thing you’ll want to do is convert your currency. You will more than likely see people in the street who offer to change your currency for much lower rates than your hotel or local bureau. Don’t trust these “better deals”. It is highly probable that you will be left with fake money or newspaper between only two pieces of real money. Needless to say, make sure to only exchange your money through an authorized business. When paying with cash, try only using small bills and exact change. Always pay attention to any money you hand to cashier or cab drivers.

Travel Scam #2- Hundred Dollar Tea For Two? No Thanks!

There are many forms of this scam around the world. The most notable is the Chinese tea house version in Tiananmen Square, Beijing. The way it works is you will be approached by usually two seemingly sweet young women. They will claim to be working on their English speaking skills, and they ask you if you would mind chatting for a bit to practice. They casually suggest going to a local tea house, and once it comes time to pay don’t be surprised when the young ladies are nowhere to be found, and you are left with an extremely high bill costing anywhere between $75-200. The tea house and girls are in cahoots on this surprise, surprise. The best way to handle this situation is simply scoff, laugh, and let the staff know you plan to get the police involved into the equation. Stand firm on this, being polite will only make matters worse.

Travel Scam #3- Las Vegas Cab Drivers In A Rush

When you get to sin city, you might be more focused one what casino you will hit first. You might distracted by all the gambling opportunities you will have once you arrive to your hotel. Well, try not to get too distracted especially around your cabbie. There is a common scam amongst cab drivers in Vegas. They claim to be in a rush and insist on unloading your luggage for you. Pay close attention; because it’s more than likely that this “friendly and helpful” cab driver is going to attempt to take off with your luggage. As the driver quickly unloads your bags, slams the truck, and drives away; you might notice a bag or two missing. In order to prevent this, either unload your luggage yourself regardless of how much of a rush the cabbie claims to be in, or pay extremely close attention as he/she unloads your bags. If the unfortunate does happen and you find your luggage stolen, make sure to make a note of the drivers name, cab number, and Cab Company.

Travel Scam #4- Train Ticket Dispenser and ATMS

When you’re in another country in which English is not the primary language. It can be difficult to understand how to operate certain machines. For instance: an ATM or a ticket dispenser at the train station. Scammers will notice your frustration and that will be the green light for them to approach you offering their assistance as a Good Samaritan. However, they only have one thing on their agenda and it’s not to assist you, it’s to steal your pin code in order to wipe out your account. In other cases, they like to see where you end up placing your ATM cash so they may pickpocket you later. Be sure to keep your transaction hidden from strangers. If you are having too much trouble with the ATM or ticket just go inside the bank, and do your business at the window if you can.

Travel scam #5- Hollow Bag Grab (The Trojan Horse Trick)

As crazy as it may seem, there are people who will actually create a hollow suitcase in which they place over your unattended bag and roll away with it. You will find many signs at train stations and airports advising travelers to keep close watch of their luggage. It would be smart to place your luggage between your legs whenever you find yourself in a crowded place.

In the travel industry you will find many scams like these. In the timeshare industry it is no different. You a scammed into signing a timeshare contract and you are scammed by resale companies claiming they can sell your property after you pay up front fees for the supposed closing costs. It will leave you feeling like you cannot trust anyone with a way out of your timeshare. However, there is hope. Transfer on the Spot is not a resale company; they have the worry-free solution out of your time share contract. Contact a representative today!

2011: “The Year Of The Fee”

Posted on January 1, 2012 by admin

This year has surely been the year for a trend of utterly annoying fees. Many major businesses have attempted to spring upon consumers; ridiculous and unwelcome fees this year. After much negative feedback from their customers, some businesses decided to scrap proposed fees soon after introducing them.

Cellphone carriers, airlines, banks and hotels; such as Verizon Wireless $2.00 one-time online payment fee or debit card usage charges brought on by banks are just a couple examples of these fees. The fee placed by Verizon has since been withdrawn due to customers’ dismay.

The fees imposed upon travelers by airlines have been a big vexation. However, legislation has been set forth by the U.S. Senate to put a limit on baggage fees airlines charge. Hopefully that will do some good for travelers, seeing that the prices of flights fluctuate so often due to fuel costs.

Let’s not forget the hotels and their sneaky hidden fees! Just this year hotels everywhere began charging fees of up to $20 for Wi-Fi, among other charges.

We can all hope with 2012 approaching, there will be major positive changes for consumers everywhere. Here’s to a prosperous New Year, and to an improved economy. Timeshares are an uphill battle when it comes to the fees you are required to pay monthly or annually. If you would like a fresh start, and a clean slate; Transfer on the Spot will get you out of your timeshare contract. Happy New Year!

Donate Unused Food To The Needy After Your Vacation

Posted on December 25, 2011 by admin

On your next visit to places like, West Maui; there are ways you can reach out to the local needy people in your vacation city.

Ridge Realty/Rentals in West Maui are encouraging tourists to donate any unused food products during the holiday season especially.

Ridge Realty announced its campaign called “You Don’t Have to Throw Food Away After Your Stay”.

Maui Food Bank campaign “Hunger Never Takes a Holiday” will be held in conjunction with the unused food donations. Both campaigns will being running through to January 31^st, 2012.

You too can find resources as to how you may donate your unused foods to the needy in your town or during your future vacations. Many people in this world are without food, especially during the holidays.

Transfer on the Spot brings you the latest vacation, travel, and timeshare news. If you are trapped in a timeshare contract we can help you out of it.

Camping Is Good For The Soul

Posted on December 24, 2011 by admin

Study shows family camping trips are the happiest of vacations for all ages

According to recent studies on family happiness, family camping vacations are revealed to be the best vacations for people of all ages. You will find the best stress relief, as well as an over-all improvement of your well-being. Holiday bookings for camp grounds, RV park resorts, and caravan sales are all continuing to rise for this holiday season.

There’s just something about camping that seems to bring people closer together. There cuddling up by a warm fire, roasting marshmallows, sharing campfire stories. It’s said that people who camp are much healthier than those who choose to stay in hotels/resorts. The fresh air must have something to do with that. Also, people are said to be more socially connected to friends and family while on a camping trip.

The great outdoors may sound a bit unsavory to some at first, but camping and exploring can be extremely beneficial not only to your health and happiness, but also to your wallet! Rather than staying in a hotel, or worse a timeshare, you can enjoy splendid money saving camping trips with your family. If you’re stuck with paying timeshare maintenance fees and special assessments, Transfer on the Spot has the solution to your problem.

Travel Safety Tips For The Busy Holiday Season

Posted on December 21, 2011 by admin

Traveling During The Holidays Can Be Hectic, Here Are Some Safety Tips For Your Journey Brought To You By Transfer on The Spot

It would always be wise to carry a jack in your car at all times, along with jump cables. Also, the correct tire pressure in your spare is a must.
No matter what the distance you plan to travel may be, you will always want to prepare your vehicle for long distance travel. Be sure to check the status of your vehicle equipment, fluid levels, lights, and make sure the tire pressure is adequate.
Even if your car is extremely dependable, no car is invincible. You should always make sure to have the proper equipment in case your car becomes disabled. Flashlight, windshield scraper, road flares, warm clothing, blankets, and gloves to keep you warm in the unfortunate should happen.
If you’re traveling in colder winter conditions, it can take a toll on your car battery. Remember, car batteries depending on the model, will last you about 3-5 years. Replace it before your trip if you are concerned with the life of your battery.
Your cell phone is your potential savior. I would suggest bringing a spare battery that is always charged, and of course a car charger. Police, and all other emergency services can always be reached by dialing 9-1-1.
A full tank of gas is always a good idea. Try to stay above a quarter tank. Fill up once you see you are just about to that point. Never take the chance to run out of gas, and be stranded on the way to Grandmas!
Leaving early will make for a much smoother trip. Heading to your destination in a rush will not only stress you out, but it will put you in danger if you speed. Not to mention the heavier than usual traffic will put a damper on your mood. Delays should be expected of course, but by giving yourself extra time, you’ll be in a much better state of mind while dealing with them.
With all the lovely gifts and luggage you have to pack in your car, you want to be careful not to block your view from the rear windows. This is a potential hazard not only for you, but for other vehicles you might not see behind or beside you. You want to have a clear view of the road at every angle possible.
Never drive while feeling sleepy or drowsy. If you are lucky enough to have more than one licensed driver be sure to give yourself a break, and let someone else get behind the wheel. If you are traveling alone, make frequent stops to maintain your alertness.
And remember to always follow traffic laws. Buckle Up!

Traveling during the holidays can be difficult, but all the more rewarding when you arrive to your destinations, and see your loved ones. Transfer on the Spot would like to wish you a very Happy Holiday Season! If you are ever in need of getting out of your timeshare contract Transfer on the Spot can help.

January: The Best Month For Travel Deals

Posted on December 19, 2011 by admin

The New Year Brings You A Clean Slate As Well As Better Travel Bargains

Just a week or so after we ring in the New Year; you’ll start to see a slump in travel prices. All forms of travel will start to decline in price once we get passed the holidays. That will be the best time to get a great deal on travel expenses. Everything from domestic/international flights, cruises, and travel packages in general (flight + hotel combos) to the tropics will be at very reasonable costs. If you are a wise traveler you will know that scheduling the week after the holidays as your winter vacation away from work will be the best opportunity for travel. If you’re looking to head somewhere tropical, you will be able to find great deals on Caribbean packages for the month of January. You can find these packages at Vacmart, Bookit, and CheapCaribbean.

Below you will find many other suggestions for travel deals in January.

If you’ve ever considered visiting Costa Rica, you will have the best deal on an independent trip for around $1,169. Although it does not include airfare, you will find that traveling by “adventure bus” as your transportation from landmark to landmark is the best way to enjoy the country. To find out more information on the Adventure Bus experience, you may find it in the G Adventures “Costa Rica Pass- Route 1 Adventure Bus.”

If you prefer to travel in a group, you have the option of traveling around Costa Rica on the Caravan Tours. Caravan Tours is a long-established company in Costa Rica that will take you and your party on a 10-night tour of every major sight in the nation. You will find the lower prices will be found in the first weeks of January, and the higher prices will be found as the month progresses. You may find more information on Caravan Tours website, or call 800-CARAVAN.

How about a Mediterranean cruise? The month of January brings you some fantastic deals. If you are looking for a great bargain on cruise travel, the winter Mediterranean cruises will be your best deal. You will be able to finds these deals on a couple different websites. Costa Cruises and MSC Cruises.

If a trip to China is more to your liking, tours to China are at the cheapest of the year in January. ChinaFocusTravel and ChinaSpree. You’ll be quite amazed by the tours each of the sites offer of this huge nation!

The last thing you probably will want to think about as a timeshare owner after the New Year approaches is another year of paying maintenance fees and special assessments. Transfer on the Spot can fulfill your New Year’s Resolution of getting out of your timeshare contract for good. We wish you the Happiest of Holidays, and a very Happy New Year!

Holiday Vacations Out Of ‘The Norm’: Go Down The Road Less Traveled

Posted on December 17, 2011 by admin

Here Are 10 Unusual Spots To Spend Your Holiday Vacation

When you usually think of going on vacation during the holidays, you probably think: sun, warm tropical air, sandy beach. Escaping the chilly winter weather during the holidays is the most likely thing travelers would do. What if you didn’t want to miss the the snow, the holiday lights and decorations? It would surely be a shame to miss no matter what holiday you celebrate. The holidays only come around once a year and the sandy beaches will be there all year round.

London, United Kingdom – This winter will be the perfect time to visit London. With the Summer Olympics coming in 2012, you’ll surely want to beat the crowds.

New York City, NY- If you’ve seen the same movies I have, you’ll notice that New York during the holidays is never a disappointment. It is called ‘the city that never sleeps’ after all. You can catch the Rockettes dancing and kicking around at Radio City Music Hall, or have a nice ice skating session in Rockefeller Center with the glorious world famous Christmas tree in sight.

Dublin, Ireland- I don’t know about you, but a nice pint of Guinness always seems to warm me up during the chilly weather. Why drink it in Dublin? you can stop by the local pub and enjoy the people of Ireland. Last minute shopping is also another fun option at the holiday shops around the city.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands- If you find yourself in Amsterdam around Dec. 5^th, you’ll catch a glimpse of the Dutch Santa Claus “Sinterklaas”. You won’t want to miss the children’s joy and excitement as it is a holiday tradition to see Sinterklaas cruise through the canals of the city.

Park City, Utah- What more is there to say besides the word SNOW? Enjoy the slopes with your loved ones, cuddle up by a nice fireplace, and sip hot chocolate. A combination fit for some fantastic memories.

Cologne, Germany- Yet another great city with awesome holiday markets to shop through. The city’s world famous dome is definitely a sight not to be missed.

Aspen, Colo. – You’ll never forget your holiday vacation in Aspen. The snow covered mountain peaks, the winter scenery, and the slopes to be skiing upon. This holiday will be a great one for you and yours.

Rome, Italy- The history alone make this city one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It will be sure to awaken the faith, happiness, and joy inside of anyone regardless of religion.

Chicago, Ill. – In the ‘Heart of the Midwest’, there are endless opportunities for you and your family to enjoy Chicago during the holiday season. This city becomes a winter wonderland during this special time of year.

Paris, France- The beauty of this city will captivate you in a way that not many other places in the world can. Make sure to take a ride up to the top of the Eiffel Tower. That is something you just can’t forget to do while in Paris! You can only imagine how much this romantic city lights up during the holidays.

Whether you find yourself in one of these beautiful cities for the holidays, or you find yourself at home, or even if you decide on a tropical destination to celebrate. Spend it with the ones you love most, and hold dearest to you. You will make memories no matter what city you find yourself in!

If you’re down and out this holiday season due to your timeshares high maintenance fees and special assessments, Transfer on the Spot would like to help release you from your timeshare contract.

How to remain sane during your holiday travels

Posted on December 15, 2011 by admin

Flight Cancellations, Flight Delays, and Overbooked Flights

Around 250 government officials recently convened to discuss the issues of holiday travel, and what could be done to prevent the increase in flight delays. In October, at least three flights were delayed in Connecticut for almost a total of eight hours. These delays were weather related, leaving the planes stranded on the tarmac. There were quite a few ideas that were recommended during the conference. The recommendations span from writing airport contingency scenarios that incorporate plans from airlines, to creating a central website with airport information regarding diversions. Below you will find things you should know should any of these issues present themselves to you.

If you are on an overbooked flight:

Overbooking is not considered to be illegal, but airlines are required to adjust the matter for those passengers who are booked on flights that are already at maximum capacity. There are a few things airlines will request you to do. They will more than likely ask you to give up your seat and accept a voucher for another flight to your destination. Some airlines will offer to compensate you depending on how long your delay will be from your original flight plan.

Flight Cancellations:

No one would want to show up to the airport, attempt to check in, and then find out their flight had been cancelled. What would be worse is for those passengers to realize that there is no current policy or standard that requires airlines to accommodate or compensate stranded passengers. The only time in which compensation would be required by law is when you are booked on an overbooked flight. Weather-related cancellations are actually air traffic controls issues, so airlines have no obligation so compensate for the unfortunate occurrence. A positive and friendly attitude will be in your favor when dealing with airline employees who have your best interest at heart, and are probably missing time with their families as much as you are.

Unexpected Flight Diversions:

If you ever experience a flight delay, you must also be prepared for flights being diverted on account of the weather. It is required by DOT (Department of Transportation) that every airline posts a contingency plan for tarmac delays on their websites. It’s best to research your airlines flight delays prior to your flight.

Sitting On The Tarmac:

In the unfortunate situation of being stuck on the tarmac, some passengers have gotten desperate enough to call 911. This is not advised, unless someone is in dire need of medical attention. When it comes to law enforcement, they do not have much say when it comes to the airline industry.

Your Best Defense:

The best ways to prevent, or to at least prepare yourself for these unfortunate situations, is to have access to the alerts your airline offers. These alerts can be sent to you through text, email, etc. It’s a great way to be made aware of the delays, or cancellations. These alerts are always accurately up to date. The FAA maintains the alerts very well, and posts up to the minute flight information.

Traveling, during the holidays especially, can be a big hassle. So many things can go wrong while you’re just trying to get home to see your loved ones. You spend a good amount of money on plane fare only to find out that your flight has been overbooked, delayed, or worse cancelled. The annoyance is about the equivalence of owning a timeshare. You spend a substantial amount of money to enjoy a great vacation with your family each year, but then the disappointment hits. You find that the maintenance fees are unreasonable, booking your timeshare when you need it can be extremely difficult, and don’t forget the special assessments they throw at you. There are ways to stop this from happening. Transfer on the Spot can help you out of your timeshare contract.