Friday, 23 December 2016

Contiki FAQ - Birmingham

Q: How long does it take to get from Manchester to Birmingham by train?
A: The trip is about 1hr, no more then 90 minutes.

Q: In Birmingham, what is the bull ring area.
A: This is a shopping centre and outdoor mall area. Lots of shops, restaurants and cafes. Also has a statue of a big bull.

Q: Is Birmingham a good city for museums?
A: It is not known for its museums, however it does have the think tank museum, the pen room and the jewellery museum. These are ok to visit.

Thursday, 22 December 2016

Contiki FAQ - Manchester

Q: In Manchester, where are the bars and restaurants.
A: A lot are located on the main road coming from the station. There are a few good ones on the road heading to the shopping centre.

Q: In Manchester, what are some good museums to visit.
A: The museum of science and industry, football museum as well as the police museum. They are all worthwhile to visit and explore.

Q: In Manchester, is it easy to see a football game?
A: If you know when you will be in the city, you can find out when games are on and try to get tickets. That is fairly easy.

Tuesday, 20 December 2016

Contiki FAQ - Liverpool

Q: In Liverpool, is the Beatles story museum worth it?
A: For those that love or like or don't know anything about the Beatles, this is the place to go. There is lots of information about the group as well as pictures and things to look at. It is worth spending an hour or so.

Q: In Liverpool is the Beatles tour worth it?
A: Yes, the Beatles tour is worth it. You get the history and the places that were important in the groups rise. It is also a fun tour with plenty of time to take pictures. It is a must do.

Q: In Liverpool is the cavern quarter worth visiting?
A: The cavern quarter is the bar area of the city. There are some good bars around there including the cavern club. However not every night the place will be rocking. Some of the places also have dress codes. So go there explore and have fun.

Q: What are some other good museums of Liverpool that are a must see?
A: You must visit the world museum, the maritime museum and slavery museum. Plus a few football games are a must or a tour of the stadiums.

Q: How do you get to Liverpool.
A: Either fly from London, Dublin, Edinburgh or other bigger city. Train from anywhere in the Uk or catch the bus, or dive and car ferry from Dublin.

Saturday, 10 December 2016

Contiki FAQ - Savannah

Q: Is the contiki Savannah walking tour any good?
A: Depends on the guide, if the guide is good then the walking tour will be good. The walking tour covers the historical area of the city. You do get to see lots of the city and learn its history.

Q: In Savannah, where are some good places to eat and drink?
A: The hotel that contiki uses is in an area that has lots of good places to eat and drink. There are also some good places on the riverfront.

Tuesday, 25 October 2016

Contiki FAQ - Vancouver

Q: Is Vancouver easy to get around?
A: Yes, it is a fairly flat city and mostly everything is within walking range. There are plenty of buses and you can hire bikes to go visit the various parks.

Q: Is going from Vancouver to the USA border easy?
A: There is a bus that you can catch, it takes a few hours to get there and will wait for you as you cross the border. This crossing is very quick compared to airports.

Q: What are Vancouver bars and restaurants like?
A: Vancouver has lots of tourists and lots of long term travelers, so there are plenty of good bars and restaurants in the main downtown. Good food, but the alcohol is not that cheap. Overall, there are plenty of places to eat and have a good time.

Q: Does it rain a lot in Vancouver?
A: They call it Raincouver for a reason. Yes it does, bring an umbrella.


Q: In Vancouver are there any walking tours available?
A: Generally there are, usually walking tours of the parks, or china town or the cbd area. You might see them in a hostel or just online.

Q: In Vancouver are there lots of aussies around?
A: Generally there are, usually working in bars and pubs or restaurants or about to head to the snow fields. It is a popular place for aussies, kiwis and south africans, especially those on a working hoilday.

Q: In Vancouver, can US dollars be used?
A: Depends on where you are, but generally no. Canadian dollars are the official currency.

Sunday, 4 September 2016

Contiki FAQ - tyrol region of Austria

Q: In the Tyrol region of Austria, what is the trout farm?
A: The trout farm is a place where you can go catch your own fish. They give you rods and let you fish in their pond. Afterwards they cook the fish and you can eat it there. It is a good way to spend a few hours.

Q: In the tyrol region of austria how far from town and the contiki accommodation is the trout farm?
A: The town off to the trout farm is about half way to the town from the contiki lodge. From the turn off it is another 20 minutes or so walk, so all up about a 30 minute walk or a short taxi ride.

Q: In the tyrol region of Austria, what is in the town at contiki stays in?
A: There is not much here, there is a supermarket, a few touristy shops. The trout farm and acafe or two, but it is not a big town.

Q: What happens in the tyrol region if it rains with contiki?
A; There is usually a bike ride on the free day, but if it rains, then you can watch movies in the lodge or walk into town with umbrellas provided.

Wednesday, 31 August 2016

Contiki FAQ - Vienna

Q: In Vienna what is the coffee culture like?
A: The city has a great coffee culture, lots of coffee places, many varieties and lots of sweet things to try with your coffee. You can order at the counter, or find a seat and wait for a waiter to come to you. You can then sit and relax with your coffee.


Q: How long does it take to get from prague to Vienna?
A: Depending on stops, it can be a 4 - 5 hr drive to the city. Arrival mid afternoon.

Q: In Vienna, what does Prater park cost?
A: The entrance to this park is free. The rides all cost different amounts from a few euros upward, depending on the ride. There are also shops and restaurants inside and plenty of free things to do as well.

Q: What is the best way to get around Vienna?
A: The best way is to walk, however the city also has a great metro system and bus network.

Q: In Vienna how longs does it take from the contiki pick up point to the hotel?
A: It is about a 20 minute bus ride, depending on traffic.

Q: What is Vienna nightlife like?
A: Just like any big European city, there are bars, clubs that sort of thing, There are also concerts to go to. Vienna has high culture with lots of music and entertainment.

Q: What is there to do in Vienna?
A: There is lots to do in vienna – the royal palace, churches, many types of museums, shopping, coffee in cafes. Walking in the park. Going to prater park. Walking the streets or talking to people.

Q: In Vienna, where does the contiki walking tour take you?
A: This depends of the tour and tour manager but Generally starts in front of the natural history museum, then walks over to the palace grounds, walks through part of the palace, past the spanish riding school, royal churches and then onto the main shopping road. The walk will take you past some of the monuments in the area as well as some old roman ruins. Eventually you will get to the pedestrian walking area of the city and the main church/ cathedral and this may be where the walking tour ends, covering the historic core of the city.

Thursday, 18 August 2016

Contiki FAQ - post travel.

Q: Do post contiki catch ups happen?
A: Depending on the tour and the type of people, you could be catching up with everyone, every so often. Use facebook to help organise a catch up. You may meet randomly on other travels. But yes they do happen, sometimes quite a lot.

Monday, 15 August 2016

Contiki FAQ - City passes and cards

Q: Is the Seattle pass worth it?
A: If you have a number of days and can get around the city easily enough, then yes. Also if you are interested in going to all the places on offer. A few of the attractions are located at the seattle space needle area. To skip the lines in some places is always worth it.

Q: Is the Dublin pass worth it?
A: Like most city passes, it contains alot of places that are worth visiting. It also has skip the lines to the Guinness experience, that alone makes it worth it. So you get to have a good time and see some culture. It also has transport from the airport included, so it makes it worth while.

Q: Is the London pass worth it?
A: Just for the fact that you can skip the lines at the tower of London and Westminster abbey, makes it one of the best things that you can buy to make your trip in London run smooth. There are other places that usually cost to get in, that are free with the pass and you can get a pass that covers transport. It will make your time in London worth it as you experience all the history and excitement of the capital.

Q: Is the Berlin pass worth it?
A: This pass also has transport added to it. It has skip the lines at various places and gives good discounts on other things. If you know what you want to see, then this pass is a must to buy as it will save you money and time.

Q: Is the Helsinki pass worth it?
A: Like the Berlin pass, this also has transport included. If you buy the pass you get discounts on some tours, entry for free in some museums and restaurants and shop discounts. You can skip the lines like most other passes. However you need to spend more then 1 day to get value out of the pass.

Saturday, 30 July 2016

Contiki FAQ - Mt rushmore and badlands.

Q: How long does it take to get from your hotel to mount Rushmore?
A: From the hotel to the bus drop off point it is about 20 minutes, but you are seeing mt Rushmore at various points along the way.

Q: Going from Mt Rushmore to Deadwood, how long does it take?
A: From Mt Rushmore, you make a stop at crazy horse, it takes about 30 minutes to get there and you are there about 1hr, maybe slightly longer. It then takes about 45 minutes ti reach deadwood.

Q: On a contiki tour in the badlands area, how long do you stay at the town of Wall?
A: The town of Wall is famous for Wall drug. It is a huge area, lots to see and buy. However you only have about 45mins – 1hr to be here. So explore fast.

Q: In the badlands in the USA, what happens?
A: You are on the coach and you are driven through the badlands themselves. You make a stop for lunch at a visitor centre, you also make several stops along the way for picture stops and short walks. Mostly you can take pictures out the coach window. Just before leaving the park, you make a stop at a view point.

Sunday, 1 May 2016

Contiki FAQ - orlando

Q: Can i go to Disney world in Orlando instead of universal?
A: Yes you can. But rater then getting your tickets through your contiki manager, you will have to get your tickets through the hotel or pick them up at the park. Contiki does make a drop at one of the parks on its way to universal, so that is fine.


Q: On arrival in Orlando with Contiki, what happens?
A: You arrive at the hotel and have a few hours free to do what you like. There is a pool here and the wifi is good. Dinner is included and is at a restaurant a short walk away. After that, most groups head back to the hotel and drink in the bar or call an early night as there is theme parks in the morning.

Q: In Orlando, what are other things to do besides disney or universal?
A: There are outlet shops, exploring the actual town or orlando or staying at the hotel.

Q: In Orlando, with contiki, what happens after a visit to a theme park?
A: You head back to the hotel and relax, usually by the pool or bar, dinner would be local or snack from the bar or hotel restaurant. You don't want to do much as you are exhausted anyway.

Q: Is orlando easy to get around on foot?
A: No, it is spread out, you need to catch a bus or two to get anywhere. Don't try it.

Friday, 22 April 2016

Contiki FAQ - Krakow

Q: In Krakow, how long does it take to get to the salt mines?
A: From the castle area of Krakow to the salt mines itself, it is about a 1hr drive depending on traffic.

Q: In Krakow with contiki, what is the arrival dinner like?
A: The dinner is the jewish quarter and is traditional jewish polish food. The food is good and there is some local entertainment. It is a good night.

Q: In Krakow, what is the best way to get around?
A: Everything is fairly close together, so walking is one of the best ways. You many need a bus to get to things further out.

Friday, 8 April 2016

Contiki FAQ - USA national parks

Q: What is the general plan when exploring Bryce canyon with contiki?
A: The coach will drive into the park. You will get off at the parking lot and then with your tour manager, have the option to do a walk. They will tell you how long you have and you can go about the walk or walk along the edge admiring the views, it is up to you. Later after everyone is back from the walk, you will leave the park.

Q: When visiting Yellowstone, does contiki take you to Old faithful?
A: Yes contiki makes a stop to see old faithful. You will see the eruption and have a bit of time to see around the general area.


Q: In the national parks of the USA, if you choose not to do a walk, what else is there to do?
A: There are plenty of other things to do besides walks. Go see the visitors centre, restaurants, shops or you could hang on the bus.


Q: What are the Sioux falls actually like?
A: The falls are small when compared to Niagara, but the area is beautiful. Being around the falls is also relaxing.


Q: In Cody, usa, what is there to do?
A: There is not much in this town. It is located on the edge of the national parks, but there are bars to go to at night or you can stay in the hotel.

Q: In Yellowstone national park, where can i eat?
A:You can bring your own food or you cat eat at some of the lodges or service centres/ gift shops scatted in the park. The food here is cafe type food and is ok but a bit expensive.

Q: In Yellowstone national park will i see wildlife with contiki?
A: Yes you will see many animals and birds, either on the road side or on walks or in passing. Keep your eyes open.


Q: At Jackson hole, where is a good place to have lunch?
A: The main street has good options for food. You get into town after 1pm and you might only get an hour to eat and explore, so be aware of time.


Q: In Kanab, what is there to do at night?
A: There is not much to do here, except hang in the hotel room. Try to have room parties here. There is a beer place just down the road. 

Q: How long is spent in zion national park with contiki and do i have time to get food?
A: You are in zion for about 3hrs or so. You do have time to get food, but do it at the end, spend all you time walking the tracks and exploring.
 

Wednesday, 6 April 2016

Contiki FAQ - Cody usa

Q: In the town of Cody, usa on the grand Northern, where do you have breakfast?
A: You have breakfast at a place called grandma's place. This is a few blocks from the hotel. You have a choice in food for what is included with contiki. Service is good here.

Sunday, 3 April 2016

Contiki FAQ - Quebec

Q: On a walking tour of Quebec city with contiki, do you see much?
A: The old town of Quebec city is small that some of it can done as a walking tour. The walking tour that contiki takes you on is enough to cover the important parts of the upper and lower town. You see some good views, some murals and some places of historical importance.

Q: In Quebec, what is poutine?
A: This is hot chips with cheese curd and gravy. It is very good and something generally found in quebec province.

Sunday, 27 March 2016

Contiki FAQ - Miami

Q: On arrival in Miami with contiki, what happens?
A: You arrive in the city, first up is lunch at the bayside market place. From here you do the speed boat optional if you have booked this. After the optional you get back on the coach and head to the hotel. Here you have a few hours free and then head out for dinner. This is included. After dinner you are on free time and can head back to the hotel or head out on the town.

Q: On your free day in Miami with contiki, what is the plan?
A: You get up, have breakfast and then you meet up with the rest of the group at the hotel. You are transported into town. Here you can do an included bike ride, see the sights, take some pictures. After this you have a number of hours free. Later you meet up, head back to the hotel, relax, eat dinner on your own time and then catch the coach to the booze cruise and later head to a club.

Q: In Miami, where doe the included bike ride take you?
A: The bike ride takes you along some of the beach areas, through a park, along some of the local streets and past several landmarks. It doesn't take long to do but it is fun.

Q: In Miami, are alcoholic drinks expensive?
A: It depends on where you go, but touristy areas and the main clubs have expensive drinks. As expensive as Australia, but at least they do free pour. There are cheap places to drink but they are hard to find.

Thursday, 24 March 2016

Contiki FAQ - Salt lake city.

Q: On a grand northern tour usa with contiki going to Salt lake city, how much of the city and the temple do you see?
A: Contiki drives through the city of Salt lake city to get to the hotel. Once here your tour manager may walk you to the Temple location and into the visitors centre, but it is optional if you want to do this. From here you time is your own. You don't get to see much of the city and only the outside of the temple anyway.

Q: Where is the contiki hotel in Salt lake city?
A: This question does not matter any more as contiki does not stop here, but it was in the centre, within walking distance of the temple and some nightlife.

Q: In Salt lake city, what is the Mormon temple like?
A: The temple is very large, but unless you are a Mormon you will not be able to get in. Everyone else can go inside the visitors center, see the model of the temple and see exhibitions on how it was made.

Wednesday, 16 March 2016

Contiki FAQ - General contiki Thailand

Q: On a contiki tour in Thailand, when do you do the contiki final survey?
A: The final survey is done on the last night of tour. Everyone meets in one of the hotels conference rooms, a final chat is done and then you do your survey and go out for one last meal if you are up for it.

Q: In Thailand, how is your contiki roommate assigned?
A: Much in the same way as usa or a hotel tour in Europe, it is done by the tour manager or the contiki office. You can change roommates by asking your tour manager.


Q: In Thailand, what are breakfasts like on tour?
A: At the hotels that contiki stays at, a buffet breakfast is provided. That is cereal, toast, standard hot breakfast foods such as eggs. Plus a variety of general Asian food. It is a big range, and all very tasty.


Q: Do i need to tip my tour manager in Thailand, how much?
A: Yes you should, they work hard for you. Allow about 3 – 4 AUD or so per day, up to 100 bht at most.

Q: Can you use the mini bar in your Thailand hotel room on contiki?
A: Yes you can, but be sure to square up the bill before you leave.

Monday, 14 March 2016

Contiki FAQ - Krabi

Q: How does contiki get from Phi phi to the hotel in Krabi?
A: First is a walk to the ferry, a 2hr or so ferry ride, then a 1hr – 90 min min van ride, and you arrive at the hotel in Krabi.

Q: On krabi beach, where do i find the monkeys?
A: There are monkeys on krabi beach. Just head to the beach, turn left on the sand and keep walking to the end of the beach. Here there are lots of monkeys, but they like to steal.

Q: What are the bars like in Krabi?
A: The bars are small, but usually have some sort of singing going on. They try to get you into the bar by offering a free shot. The alcohol is also cheap.

Q:When i am in Krabi, can i ride elephants?
A: Contiki no longer offers this as an optional. However you can gook at tour that does this from the hotel. The tour will pick you up and drop you back again, there is a chance to ride the elephants and maybe feed them. There is time to take pictures as well.

Q: How does contiki go from Krabi back to Phuket?
A: Contiki gets a number of mini vans and drives the group back to the start hotel in phuket. The drive takes a number of hours and stops are made for rests.

Q: In Krabi, thailand, what is the buffet like at the contiki hotel?
A: The buffet is in front of the hotel, they have various foods such as salads, curries, rice, meats, sushi, desserts and breads. The food is fresh and gets replaced all the time. If you need drinks, the bar is just inside the door of the hotel.

Sunday, 13 March 2016

Contiki FAQ - Phi phi island

Q: In Phi phi, how do you get to the hotel and how does your bags arrive?
A: On phi phi island, once you get your bags off the ferry, you give them to the hotel staff and they take them by boat to the hotel, then transfer them to your room. You on the other had, have to walk through town, past the shops, past the other hotels to the hotel you will be staying at, which is a bit of a walk across the beach.

Q: On phi phi island, where are there fire dancing shows?
A: These shows are cool, they last about 30 – 45 minutes. They can be found at the hotel that contiki stays at, or if you want to see more – at various bars along the water or at the beach.

Q: What are the bars like on phi phi island?
A: There are lots of small bars around. They also have cheap beers and cheap buckets. The bars are good for a bar crawl as they are cheap and not that crowded. Most have tvs that show sports, mainly Australian sports.

Q: What is the included dinner like at Phi phi island?
A: The included dinner is at the hotel. It is a buffet of Thai food. The food is really good and very fresh. You can also order drinks from the bar – pay for separately. After dinner is the fire show.

Q: On Phi phi island, is going to the view point worth it?
A: The view point is up a lot of steep stairs, you need to pay to get there, but when you get there, the views are amazing. Do it early in the morning or in the late afternoon, in the cool part of the day. The start of the stairs are easy to find – just follow the yellow brick road.

Q: What is the phi phi town actually like?
A: It is a small place, there are lots of places to stay, restaurants, bars and lots of shops selling the usual touristic stuff. There are also lots of places for massages. There is also a number of day trip places, currency converters and tour agencies. It is also a small area and lots of people.

Q: When going from Phi phi island to the ferry to Krabi, what happens to my luggage?
A: The morning of departure, you leave your luggage outside your room. The hotel staff pick it up and transport it to a boat in front of the hotel, meanwhile you meet you group in front of the hotel, walk to the ferry terminal/wharf and wait for your luggage to arrive from the hotel. You then transfer it to the ferry yourself.

Q: On Phi phi island, what is the best way to get around?
A: This island is small enough that you can walk around quite easliy. You can also take a boat around other parts of the island as well.

Q: In Phi phi, how easy is it to get to the beach?
A: From the contiki hotel, there is a beach in front of the hotel, but it is not that nice, there is one a short walk to the left of the hotel around the corner and another if you go into the town and head to the main beach. The beaches have sand a water and some have food options and chairs.

Saturday, 12 March 2016

Contiki FAQ - general Thailand.

Q: What are Thailand ferries like?
A:These ferries are old, crowded and very rarely run on time. There may be a snack bar, but there may not be one. They are also slow, but they do get to the destination in the end.

Q: What is Thai boxing like?
A: Thai boxing seams to be like ordinary boxing. However in places around Thailand – phuket and phi phi included, tourists can go in the ring and box each other. If you want to do this, you will get equipment and a medal at the end. You will also get a free bucket. It is also good just to watch and cheer on someone.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Thailand.
A: You shouldn't. Bottled water is cheap. Tap water can give you health issues. Most of the ice in the country is made from bottled water or it should be. Just be safe and drink bottled.

Q: What are the toilets like in Thailand?
A: The public toilets are hard to find, go into a maccas or starbucks and you may be able to get one. Other ones cost a few bht to get in. They are usually clean and tydy inside. You can't throw toilet paper in the toilet, it needs to go into the bin – just like Greece.

Q: Before going to Thailand, should i learn some Thai?
A: It is always good to know the basics, but nearly everyone speaks some sort of English, so you will have no problem.


Q: In Thailand am i able to hire cars and scooters?
A: Just because you can, does not mean you should. There is lots of traffic on the roads and not many road rules, it is safer to get taxis, but if you want more independence, then go for it.


Q: Do i need to tip in Thailand?
A: In general it is not really expected, except for massages and really good service. Also your tour manager will need to be tipped.

Q: What are the Thailand buffet breakfast like?
A: These breakfasts have a mixture of Asian and western breakfast foods. There is cereal and toast, eggs, bacon, pancakes as well as fruits, muffins, rice, pork and chicken dishes and omelet stations.

Q: In Thailand is prebooking things to do worth it?
A: If you have limited time in an area it is worth it, however there are all these short tours everywhere for cheap that you can book the night before or even a few hours before, especially on the islands, so you can prebook things or you can wing it and see what happens, it is up to you.


Q: Are there atms in Thailand?
A: Yes there are plenty around, however they have a massive fee to take out money - $6 – 8 per transaction. So be sure to take out a lot.

Q: In Thailand, is the voltage any different to what is used in Australia in terms of power adapters?
A: Thailand the voltage is similar to Australia. The plugs are different. They have two straight plus, they may be round, so one like a European one, the other a slightly different one. So you do need an adapter.

Friday, 11 March 2016

Contiki FAQ phuket

Q: In Phuket, what is the airport like?
A: The airport is small, there is lots of security and not many shops. It is also easy to get around. The airport is also far away from the main tourist places.

Q: In Phuket, where does contiki Meet.
A: Contiki meets in the Patong beach region of the island. This is about 45 – 60 mins from the airport. The contiki hotel is in the general area of the tourist region.

Q: In Phuket, how do you get to Patong from the airport?
A: You can prebook a transfer to your hotel or there are plenty of taxis and mini buses that you can book once you are at the airport. The journey will take up to an hour depending on traffic and may cost 800bht plus.

Q: In Phuket what is the contiki start meeting like?
A: The contiki start meeting is like all other contiki pretour meetings, everyone is in a big room, you meet the tour manager, fill out or check paperwork, the tour manager goes over information about the tour and the country and then you pick your optionals. There is a chance to meet most people and a chance to ask questions.

Q: In Phuket, what happens after the contiki meeting?
A: After the meeting is over, it is a free night, but there is a self pay group dinner at a restaurant with a good view. The tour manager provides transport there and the food is great. Afterwards you head to a few cheap bars on Bangala road and have fun there.

Q: In Phuket, what is Bangala road like?
A: This is the party area, it is where everyone ends up. There are bars clubs, restaurants and all sorts. There is lots of lights and touts wandering around. It is a fun area, full of tourists and some locals. You can get good drink deals here.

Q: In Phuket, how expensive is it to drink at the bars?
A: It is cheap to drink in Phuket, however it is more expensive then other places in Thailand. You can get a bucket for about 150 – 200 bht, beer for cheaper. Other cocktails for a similar price. The bars are usually busy, but there are always people there to serve you.

Q: In Phuket are the mini vans and tuk tuks easy to hire.
A: They are easy to hire and good for short journeys. They are also cheap and everyone uses them.

Q: How does contiki get from Phuket to Phi phi?
A: Contiki hires mini vans to transport the group and your luggage from the hotel in Phuket to the ferry terminal. This is about 45 – 60 min drive. Once there you get on the ferry and it is about a 2 – 3 hr ride to phi phi island.

Q: On a return to Phuket after travelling the islands with contiki, what happens?
A: After getting out of the mini vans and collecting your luggage, it is time to say goodbye. Here at the hotel you can leave your luggage and go explore, head to the airport or check into the hotel.

Q: How do you go from the Phuket hotel to the airport?
A: This depends on how many people there are. You can get a taxi or a mini van. The mini vans are good if there are more then 4 people. You can order both from the phuket hotel reception. A taxi is 800 bht.

Q: Is it possible to get street food in Phuket easily?
A: In Phuket, there is street food but not as much as in Bangkok. You just need to find it. It is fresh and tasty as in Bangkok.

Q: In Phuket, how far is the contiki hotel from bangala road?
A: It is about a 15 minute walk along the main roads to get to one end of bangala road.

Thursday, 10 March 2016

General FAQ - Bangkok

Q: In Bangkok, how do i get from the Airport to the city?
A: At the airport is a rail line catch this for about 20 minutes and you will reach the metro connection. From here you can get the metro out to a number of locations. There is also bus and taxi services available

Q: What is the temperature like in Bangkok?
A: It is hot and muggy in Bangkok. Sometimes there will be rain and storms, the rest of the time just hot. Upward of about 30 degrees, plus lots of humidity.

Q: What are some things that i can do in Bangkok?
A: There is lots to do in this city. Visiting temples, museums, boat ride on the canals, markets, walking tours, tuk tuk rides and just walking around and soaking up the culture. There is also the huge grand palace that has lots to see.

Q: What is there to do in Bangkok at night?
A: There is lots to do in this city at night. Night markets, pub crawls, street foods, shows or hitting the red light districts.

Q: In Bangkok what are the red light districts like?
A: The area is red, including the light, there are lots of bars and places to eat. There are also ping pong shows, massage places and lots of girls and lady boys trying to get your attention. It is also safe. Walk through, observe.

Q: Is Bangkok the best place to get a massage?
A: Bangkok has many massage places, selling many types of massage. There are various prices. Look up what sort of massage you want and the rough price and you will be able to go in a have a relaxing time. They are also easy to find.

Q: In Bangkok are tuk tuks worth while hiring?
A: The best way to get a tuk tuk is to wait until they come to you. This way you might be able to get a better price. Organize the price before hand, try to have change when needed and you will be in for a wild ride around the city. They can get into small spaces and move faster then taxis. They are good for getting from A to B.

Q: Can you get street food in Bangkok easily?
There are plenty of places to get street food. You just need to find a place, walk up, order and within a few minutes you will have great food. However things are changing recently, there are less places but the ones that exist are still very good.

Thursday, 3 March 2016

Contiki FAQ - Madison usa

Q: What is the Miller brewery tour like with Contiki?
A: This is part of the included tour in the USA. Coming from Chicago, you stop here on the way to Madison. You do a tour of a number of the buildings and then head to the tasting area for a tasting session. It is a good tour and you learn about the history of the company and about the beer itself. There is a change to buy souvenirs.

Q: What is there to do in Madison at night?
A: On a contiki tour, you are only in Madison for 1 night. On that 1 night you can hit the bars in town or explore the area around the hotel. You can also have room parties at the hotel.

Q: In Madison, how long does it take to get from the contiki hotel to the place where the buffet dinner is?
A: It is about a 10 minute drive down the road.

Wednesday, 2 March 2016

Contiki FAQ - contiki V topdeck

Q: Are the Contiki and top deck coaches the same?
A: Apart from outside decorations, they are the same. They use identical coaches anyway.

Q: What is the Topdeck paris picnic like?
A: The pairs picnic as provided by top deck is near the Eiffel tower. It is just off to the side of the gardens at the base of the tower. There is lots of salads and meats. It is set out like a buffet dinner and you grab what you want and eat there. You can also try frog legs there as well. At the end of the meal, everything is packed up and put onto the coach.

Q: What is the Top deck road stop picnic like?
A: The food is very good and fresh, there is lots of salads and some bread. There is no meat. There is also cheese and biscuits. There is fruit but this goes fast. Overall it beats road side stop food.


Q: In Switzerland is there any difference between the contiki and topdeck campsites.
A: There is not much of a difference here except for the layout. Also topdeck has a dining tent, contiki has it in a room. Contiki also has a lodge where you can stay, topdeck does not. Topdeck also has a better stocked shop. Both are essentially the same.


Q: With topdeck, do you have to tip your tour manager?
A: Unlike most companies, it is not required, but if you have a very good tour manager, why not give them a tip.

Q: What is the difference between contiki and top deck in Monaco?
A: Both companies get you to Monaco and walk you up to the casino, but some contikis have a dinner there, top deck takes you on a walking tour of part of the city, but you have to find your own food for dinner. Overall there is not much difference.

Q: In Rome, how long does the topdeck walking tour of the city go for?
A: The top deck tour is much longer then a contiki tour of the city. The tour goes for up to 5 hrs. This is because they also walk past the forum area, which contiki does as part of an optional. The tour also allows time for dinner and a gelato stop. It also shows more of the city of Rome then the contiki tour does.

Q: With Topdeck in Nice, france, how far is the beach from the hostel?
A: It is about a 15 minute walk down the main street.

Q: In Florence, where is the Topdeck hostel?
A: It is located in the city, it is a short walk from the cathedral. Florence is a small city, so it is easy to walk around.

Q: In Florence, is there an difference between contiki and topdeck walking tours?
A: They both generally go to the same places, see the same things and end up at the same leather works. But the way the tour walks around the city might be different. They are both about the same length.

Monday, 29 February 2016

Contiki FAQ - cleveland

Q: In Cleveland, how long do you spend in the rock and roll hall of fame?
A: You get about 90 minutes to spend in the rock and roll hall of fame. There is lots to see here if you are interested and a cafe for those that are not interested. The time is enough if you have an interest in it, but not enough if you are a fan.


Q: What happens in Cleveland at night with contiki?
A: This is a relative quiet night. There is bowling near the hotel. There is also food at the bowling alley and a bar. Most people go here. There are some good food places near the hotel as well. After bowling, a lot of people head back to the hotel and relax or have room parties.

Q: What happens with contiki in Cleveland?
A: You arrive in Cleveland and first visit the rock and roll hall of fame for a few hours. After this you get take to the hotel. That night you may go to the bowling alley down the street a few blocks for food, drink and bowling or you may eat at places around the hotel. Next morning you get back on the coach and leave the city.

Q: Do you get much time to explore the city of Cleveland?
A: There is not much time to go explore. You get into the city fairly late and leave early the next morning.

Friday, 26 February 2016

Contiki FAQ Warsaw

Q: In Poland, heading for Warsaw, do you stop to see the Black madonna?
A: With contiki, heading from Krakow to warsaw you make a few stops. One of these is at Częstochowa, where there is the Black madonna. You get time to go up and see it. The coach parks nearby, you walk up to the church following the crowds and can see in inside. You stay about 45 mins to 1hr here. There are a few shops nearby and the grounds of the church are nice to walk in.


Q: What happens on the night that contiki arrives in Warsaw?
A: This is a long driving day with lots being seen on the drive to the city. You get into the hotel after 7pm. Your tour manager might take you down to the trams and get you into the main square to find dinner. However there are other places to eat around the hotel area. It will also be a quiet night.

Q: In warsaw, what is included on the contiki driving tour?
A: Some of the Jewish quarter things, some parks, the main square and some of the historic areas of the city. You get to drive past some of the interesting buildings as well.

Q: In warsaw, on the night in the city on contiki, what happens?
A: You spend your day doing the usual sightseeing, then come back to the hotel, relax. You then all meet up and go to the last dinner – this is included, there is alcohol included here, from dinner you will head out on the town having drinks and saying goodbye.

Thursday, 25 February 2016

Contiki FAQ - Prague

Q: In Prague, does contiki offer pub crawls?
A: Contiki does not offer pub crawls in Prague as either included or an optional. You can however go on one of the many that are going throughout the city. They are all cheap and come with free drinks or shots. The bars are also fun to explore.


Q: In Prague, what is the best way to get around?
A: Walking is the best way, you get to experience the ciy. Plus it is easy get around. You can also take the tram or the subway. Both of these are cheap.

Q: What is Prague castle like?
A: Prague castle is huge, it is also at the top of a hill, so it has great views. It is also free to enter, however if you want to see the various aspects of the castle such as the museums and churches, then you need to pay or get a combo ticket. The castle has lots of history and is worth visiting just to walk around and explore.

Q: In Prague, what is the included contiki bike ride like?
A: This is a cool ride through the city. You see the main sights of the city, pass through the parks, ride through the old town area and the area across the Charles bridge. You see the Lennon wall and stop for pictures. There is rest breaks and time to explore. You also ride through the Jewish quarter. It is only a few hours and it is worth it.


Q: In Prague, what is Charles bridge?
A: This is a bridge across the river, it is close to old town and leads to the castle area. There are lots of statues on this bridge of famous prague and general area people. This is also a very touristy bridge

Q: How long does a contiki tour take to get from Prague to Vienna?
A: You leave Prague early in the morning, make a stop at the bone church outside Prague and then continue on. You make a stop in a small town for lunch and then after lunch you arrive in Vienna and head to the hotel. So maybe 5 hrs at most plus a few stops.


Q: Are there many ATM's in Prague?
A: Yes, there are the usual amount for any city, plenty in the old town areas. They do give out czeck crowns and may have a fee.

Q: Is beer in Prague very cheap?
A: Beer in Prague costs between 2 – 3 Euro. But the beer is very good. However you need to go out of the touristy areas to get this kind of price.

Q: In Prague, where do i get a Jewish quarter combo ticket?
A: You can get one at any of the Jewish quarter museums or synagogs. Just buy a combo ticket and avoid the ticket lines for the other museums. You also get a map so you know where everything is.

Thursday, 18 February 2016

Contiki FAQ - Boston

Q: Is it hard to get to the hotel in Boston from the city centre?
A: It is easy to get there. However it is not close and you would need to take a taxi or go in via the contiki coach. You can get on the train, but you need to change trains to get into the city centre.

Q: How long does contiki take to get from New York to Boston?
A: You leave New year by 8am and arrive in Boston about 4pm. However you make at least two stops along the way for rest. But it is a good day spent in the bus.

Q: In Boston, what can you do on a free night?
A: Go out and hit a pub. There may be live music, dancing and good beers. It is a fun way to enjoy Boston.

Tuesday, 16 February 2016

Contiki FAQ - Albuquerque and Durango

Q: On a contiki tour stopping in Albuquerque, do you get to see much of the city?
A: You don't get to see much of the city. The coach arrives in town, drives through the town to head to the hotel, then next morning, although it is a late start, you drive through again to leave the city. If you are doing the ballooning optional then you will see the city from the air.


Q: In Durango, do you get to see much of the town?
A: You arrive too late in the day to see much and then it is dinner and night activities time. You also leave the next day early. You will not see much of this town.

Q: In Durango, what is the hotel like, that contiki uses?
A: The hotel is more like a motel, rooms on two levels surrounded by the parking lot, with breakfast over at reception. You are not here long enough to do more then sleep anyway. However there is wifi and a washing machine.

Q: What nightlife is there in durango?
A: Contiki usually visits a bar and stays there. This is because it is cheap drinks, there are pool tables and plenty of room. It could be a good night.