Travel Tips

It's always important to take care of your health, but there are additional concerns to keep in mind when you're traveling.

Whether you're taking a quick trip with your family or studying abroad for several months, it's easier to get sick when you're in a new place because your body hasn't had a chance to adjust to the food, water, and air in a new environment. Traveling can bring you in contact with things that your body isn't used to.

Here are some tips on keeping your travel experience as healthy as possible.

Don't Take a Vacation from Health

The stress and excitement of travel can make you more likely to get sick, but if you follow a few simple tips, you're more likely to stay healthy throughout your trip — and your trip will definitely be more enjoyable. The good news is that as a teen, your immune system is as strong as an adult's, but lack of sleep and a poor diet can make it easier for you to become sick.

The first thing you should do if you're heading overseas is to find out what kinds of vaccinations you'll need in advance because different countries have different requirements. In the United States, contact your doctor or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for a list of necessary vaccinations. You'll want to allow plenty of time for this step in case you need to get vaccines that require more than one dose.

Common Travel Troubles

Three of the most common health problems that you may experience when traveling are jet lag, altitude sickness, and diarrhea. When you fly across time zones, the differing amounts of light can change your internal body clock, resulting in a condition known as jet lag. Jet lag may cause some symptoms that are bummers on a fun trip, including upset stomach, insomnia, and tiredness.

There are some things you can do to combat jet lag; for example, if you're traveling from west to east, you should stay out of the sun until the day after your arrival. If you're flying from east to west, go for a brisk walk as soon as possible after you arrive.

Altitude sickness is caused by dry air, a decrease in oxygen, and low barometric pressure when you travel to a higher altitude than you're used to. As a result, you may have problems, such as headaches, dehydration, and shortness of breath. Some people are affected at 5,000 feet (1,524 meters), but others aren't affected until they reach altitudes of 10,000 feet (3,048 meters) or more. Find out what altitude you're traveling to before you go to see if altitude sickness could be a problem.

The best prevention for altitude sickness is to gradually increase your altitude every day to get used to it. If that isn't possible, a drug known as acetazolamide can help relieve and even prevent symptoms of altitude sickness. If you think that you might get altitude sickness, talk with your doctor before you leave home.

The topic of diarrhea may seem gross, but it can be a serious problem. Traveler's diarrhea, known as turista, often occurs when a foreign type of bacteria enters your digestive tract, usually when you eat contaminated food or water. The best way to prevent turista is to be very careful of the food you eat and the water you drink on the road

Jakarta

Jakarta, the capital city of the Republic of Indonesia, is a special territory enjoying the status of a province, consisting of Greater Jakarta, covering an area of 637.44 square km. Located on the northern coast of West Java, it is the center of government, commerce and industry and as such has an extensive communications network with the rest of the country and the outside world. As Indonesia's main gateway, the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport serves a growing number of international airlines and domestic flights. Jakarta is a city of contrasts; the traditional and the modern, the rich and the poor, the sacral and the worldly, often stand side by side in this bustling metropolis. Even its population, gathered from all those diverse ethnic and cultural groups which compose Indonesia, are constantly juxtaposed as an ever- present reminder of the national motto; Unity in Diversity.

Finding its origin in the small early 16th century harbor town of Sunda Kelapa, Jakarta's founding is thought to have taken place on June 22, 1527, when it was re-named Jayakarta, meaning

Glorious Victory by the conquering Prince Fatahillah from neighboring Cirebon. The Dutch East Indies Company which captured the town and destroyed it in 1619, changed its name into Batavia and made it the center for the expansion of their power in the East Indies. Shortly after the outbreak of World War II, Batavia fell into the hands of the invading Japanese forces who changed the name of the city into Jakarta as a gesture aimed at winning the sympathy of the Indonesians.

The name was retained after Indonesia achieved national independence after the war's end.

The ethnic Jakartan called "Orang Betawi" speaks Betawi Malay, spoken as well in the surrounding towns such as Bekasi and Tangerang. This language has two variations: the conventional Betawi Malay and the modern Jakarta Malay. While the first is spoken by the elder people, born and bred in Jakarta, the second is spoken by the younger generation and migrants.

Jakarta's architecture reflects to a large extent the influx of outside influences which came and has remained in this vital seaport city. The Taman Fatahillah Restoration Project, begun in the early 1970s has restored one of the oldest sections of Jakarta also known as Old Batavia to approximately its original state.

The old Portuguese Church and warehouse have been rehabilitated into living museums. The old Supreme Court building is now a museum of fine arts which also houses part of the excellent Chinese porcelain collection of former Vice President Adam Malik. The old Town Hall has become the Jakarta Museum, displaying such rare items as Indonesia's old historical documents and Dutch period furniture.

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Its tower clock was once returned to England to be repaired under its lifetime guarantee, which up to now has already lasted hundreds of years.

One of the most interesting tourist attractions is the "Beautiful Indonesia in Miniature Park" popularly called "Taman Mini". Built to portray the variety of cultures found within the many islands contained in the Republic of Indonesia, this open-air museum comprises the many architectural forms of arts and traditions of all 27 provinces. It is proof of the country's motto of Unity in Diversity as well as Freedom of Religion depicted in the houses of worship built on the grounds.

Jakarta has preserved its past and is developing for the future. Skyscrapers in the center of the city are part of a new look.

Modern luxury hotels today cater to the discriminating visitors. Transport within the city is plentiful. It should be noted that museums are open daily from 8.00 a.m. (except Mondays) till 2.00 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. On Fridays closing hour is 11.00 a.m. and on Saturdays at 1.00 p.m.

Jakarta Travel Guide

Jakarta is the biggest city in Indonesia with a role as the capital of Indonesia as well as the government center of Indonesia. Jakarta is also one of the 33 provinces in Indonesia, and therefore governed by a governor who reports to the President of Indonesia through the Internal Affairs Minister. Due to the multi role as both a province and the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta then given a status of Special Capital Region (Daerah Khusus Ibukota=DKI). DKI Jakarta has five municipalities and administrative regency. The five municipalities are North Jakarta (Jakarta Utara), East Jakarta (Jakarta Timur), West Jakarta (Jakarta Barat), South Jakarta (Jakarta Selatan), Central Jakarta (Jakarta Pusat), and Thousand Islands Regency (Kepulauan Seribu). Each municipality headed by a Mayor who assists to prepare the planning of their region. Thousand Island is headed by a Regent who’s responsible on the financial matters.

History

The history of Jakarta began from a small port at the mouth of Ciliwung River, centuries ago. The port city then emerged to become a busy international trading center. Journals of European journalist in 16th century mentioned that there’s a city, named Kalapa (Kelapa in Sundanese called kalapa, means coconut), seemed as the main port for a Hindu Kingdom named Sunda, with a capital of Pajajaran, located near to the current location of Bogor. Portuguese was the first fleet from Europe that arrived at Kalapa Port.

Proclamation MonumentThe port city was then attacked by its neighbor, Demak Kingdom, under the leadership of Fatahillah. On 22nd June, 1527, Kelapa Port was taken away and the name was then changed to Jayakarta, which meant a city of glory and victory. 22nd June1527 then recognized as birthday of Jakarta. Dutch fleet arrived at the 16th century which soon dominated Jayakarta and changed the name to Batavia. At the era when Japanese dominated Indonesia, from 1942 to 1945, the name of Batavia was changed to Jakarta. On 17th August 1945, Ir. Soekarno proclaimed the freedom of Indonesia in Jakarta, when red and white flag of Indonesia was officially raised for the first time. The sovereignty of Indonesia officially acknowledged in 1949 after Indonesia joined the United Nation. In 1966 Jakarta was officially announced as the capital of Indonesia.

Demographic

Total population of Jakarta is about 10 million people. The population of Jakarta is increased at day time when the workers whose resident are at small towns around Jakarta like Bekasi, Tangerang, Bogor and Depok coming to Jakarta for work. East Jakarta which population is about two million people is the most populated municipality, while Thousand Islands with about 20,000 population is the least populated regency. Indonesian language (Bahasa Indonesia) is the language used in daily conversation. Regional languages still used by those people originated from the same region. However, since Jakarta people originated from various ethnicities so the main language used is Indonesian language. For some of Jakarta people such as students, workers or businessmen, English start to be commonly used. Other foreign languages that were interesting to be studied by some of Jakarta people are Dutch, France, Germany, Mandarin, Arabic and Japanese.

Culture

The ethnic of Betawi is the original people lived in Jakarta. At the beginning of Jakarta city, there were some people from different ethnics like Sundanese, Javanese, Balinese, Malayan, Maluku people, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, Arabian, Indian and some other ethnics living in Jakarta brought various kind of culture to Jakarta. The colloquial language used in daily communication was Malay with some influence of Portuguese, Chinese and English on the dialect. Those people from different ethnics then slowly assimilated one another and finally lost of their original culture. From the assimilation process of those ethnics then a new kind of ethnic was born, that was Betawi. Betawi people have a unique culture that easily recognized from their dialect, cloth, and arts. Situ Babakan, a cultural preserve, was founded to preserve the culture of Betawi people.


Interesting Places in Jakarta

Jakarta is a metropolitan city which has millions enchantments to enjoy. There are many comfortable malls and luxurious plazas for shopping, entertainment places like bars, night club, discotheques and live music, as well as international restaurants serving good taste cuisines. Besides modernity, there’re many simplicity you could see in Jakarta, such as small shops (warung) under the tent, sidewalk shops, bajaj (three wheeled vehicle), and bicycle ojek (ride by bicycle).

Top 5 Most Romantic Beach Getaways in South East Asia

With the Valentine's Day just around the corner, it's never too late to book a ticket and plan your next romantic getaway.  If you and you're honey are up to some dash of adventure, South East Asia is the perfect destination for you. As the region boasts some of the best beaches in the world, it is your gateway to an early summer sand frolic and memories of sweet nothings that are meant to last for a lifetime. 

Boracay, Philippines

The island has been known to be one of the best acclaimed beaches in the world. Located on the northwest corner of Panay Island in the Philippines, the seven kilometer island is home to long beaches, fine white sand and breath taking sunsets. It's also been known to have vast selection of restaurants and resorts, which can set a perfect ambiance to your romantic date. If you're up for some action, various water sports and hiking trails are available for your leisure at a fraction of the cost. Bazaars are also set-up that features local Filipino crafts and delicacies. Nightlife is buzzing with multiple events set-up all year long.

For many tourists who've been to the island, it's a destination they say that would keep you coming back for more.

Bali, Indonesia

Surf's up for the surfing enthusiast. The most well-known and smallest island of Indonesia lies in the east of Java only separated by the Bali Strait. The island is around 112 km long and features mountain ranges with peaks as high as 3,000 meters. More than just a mecca for surfers, it features diverse and exquisite wildlife as well as ancient temples that remind the island of its historic past. Its tourist friendly ambiance is a great first stop if you're travelling in Asia for the first time. Diving, surfing and hiking are only some of the activities you can do in the island. Once there, you'd be surprised of the number of options you can add in your itinerary.

Koh Phi Phi, Thailand

You probably saw Koh Phi Phi in the adventure drama film "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The small archipelago is composed of 6 islands in the province of Krabi, Thailand. The distinct feature of the island is its population diversity aside from lush wildlife. Buddhist, Thai's, Malay Muslims and indigenous groups have settled to the island and have lived in harmony. Going around the island Koh Phi Phi also very convenient as the biggest island, Ko Phi Phi Don is only about 8 km long. World renowned Thai cuisine reflects the plates of every restaurant in the island. If you are up to some gastronomic adventure, not only do you have the option of trying the best dinning places but can even learn how to make it by yourself. Multiple classes are offered in Koh Phi Phi with program schedules that can be customized to your need.    

El Nido, Philippines

The tranquility of the island is contagious to any traveler. The majestic limestone formation of El Nido would impress outdoor lovers around the globe.  A part of the province of Palawan, it has been recently named as the Best Beach and Island destination in the Philippines according to the CNN Go's report.  It hosts 50 white sand beaches, various endangered species, and a vast coral formation. Palawan is also known as "The Last Frontier" with the island's Tubataha Reef Marine National Park named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This hidden jewel is perfect for lovers that want to elude densely populated tourist destinations.

Redang, Malaysia

A great place for honeymoons and weddings, the island of Redang is a perfect backdrop to your beach nuptial photos. The island is known for crystal clear waters, fine white sand and spectacular skyline. It is also a good spot for underwater tourism with historic shipwrecks found in its waters. The richness of flavor found in Malaysian food never escaped the island. With top of the line beach resorts and international hotels, a commodity is worth every dime you spend.

Favehotel Opens in Melawai, Jakarta

Archipelago International has expanded its portfolio of favehotels in Indonesia with the opening of the favehotel Melawai Jakarta.

Set within the most happening area of Melawai, the favehotel Melawai Jakarta is situated just around the corner from the main street, Jl. Melawai 4, which has long been a hit with younger city dwellers.

 The hotel sits in the very heart of Block M inside Block M Square, Jakarta’s famous Japanese enclave known as “Little Tokyo” that teams an excellent range of shopping options and thriving nightlife. Shopaholics can also enjoy the larger and more exclusive shopping outlets at the nearby Pasaraya Grande.

The hotel features 101 rooms complete with complimentary high-speed WiFi throughout the entire hotel.

 The rooms feature LED TVs, security key card systems, air conditioning, in-room safes and top of the line Serta beds with high knot count cotton linens.

There are also 3 meeting rooms and parking space, while the all day café-shop is a quite spot for light bites and casual coffee breaks.

Consumer Reports: Tips to Find the Best Travel Deals

Consumer Reports: Tips to find the best travel deals

Need a vacay, like, right now? ShopSmart, the shopping magazine from the publisher of Consumer Reports, suggests these sites that make last-minute travel cheap and easy to book. Each one of them meets ShopSmart’s requirements for contact info disclosure and customer service.

In addition, check out the last-minute travel sections of the Big Three sites (Expedia, Orbitz and Travelocity). And try GetARoom.com (800-468-3578) for super-low unpublished room deals.

AIRBNB.COM

BEST FOR living like a local. Users can rent private rooms in people’s homes or entire homes. With more than half a million listings (including 600 castles) in 34,000 cities, it can save you from a bland hotel -- and save you money. ShopSmart found an entire three-bedroom house in the Riverdale section of New York City, just minutes north of Manhattan, for $150 per night. Safety tip: Opt for hosts with a Verified ID badge; they provide proof of identity.

BOOKING.COM

BEST FOR finding a hotel room. Get the best of both worlds: Search every hotel in a city and book your favorite (you don’t pay until you show up). The Best Price Guarantee means if you see a cheaper price, the site will match it. But discounts such as AAA’s aren’t covered.

GETGOING.COM.

BEST FOR nice surprises. Feeling adventurous? With GetGoing’s Pick Two, Get One program, you enter your preferred travel dates and the experience you want (say, a beach vacation or an outdoor adventure), and the website finds flights to different cities at up to 40 percent off. The site makes the final decision for you. After you enter your credit card info, you find out where you’re going on vacation.

TRAVEFY.COM.

BEST FOR group travel. These tools take the pain out of coordinating a group trip. You can all vote on a location, book flights and accommodations, agree on your itinerary and even split shared costs. Join the rewards program to earn points for everything you do. Points are redeemable for gift cards and more.

Westhill Consulting Travel &Tours Singapore is proud to announce personalized escorted tours in three major Asian cities

Thinking of the first to do in a foreign city on your first day? You may try being adventurous, come what may and do whatever.  Or why not, let us organize your tour with a local travel guide.  This is a way to revolutionize the way you explore new destinations through Westhill Consulting Travel & Tours. 

Is it a walking tour with a difference that you wanted or an adrenaline-fuelled activity that thrills you the most?  Westhill connects you to the place and will make your stay memorable and enjoyable.  This can be seen in the company’s past success overseas launching tours in many other Asian cities, such as Bangkok Thailand, Kuala Lumpur Malaysia, Jakarta Indonesia.

The recent launch of personalized travel guides has meant that quintessentially Asian pastimes such as picnics, shopping at the night markets and many various activities each country has to offer are now available to buy as a group or individual experiences.  Instead of using big name tour companies, we are utilizing the girl or guy-next door types sharing their insider knowledge of the city.

Jason is an architect and enthusiastic music lover.  Jason will escort 1-4 people around the best insider music venues in Bangkok. Very practical knowledge for the music lovers.

Karol is obsessed with fashion.  When she’s not working at a Jakarta design house she’s offering fashionistas like her an opportunity to see the normally unseen world of clothes shopping in Jakarta.

This is just a glimpse of what’s on offer as the collection of guides goes on with to growing daily.  By means of linking compatible people and serving travelers obtain the most out of a visit, the company is fast-becoming the go-to tool for planning activities and trips during city breaks.

CEO and Co-founder says: “looking for an experience off-the-beaten track is the Holy Grail for travelers, but they’re not that easy to come by.  What we’re doing with Westhill is giving the people the chance to bond and travel around a city in ways that you won’t be able to find elsewhere.  We are here to assure you will have the greatest time of your life”

He also says that our travel escorts are trained in giving out tips on things such as how to avoid scams while travelling to whatever city you choose. Our travel escorts have full Westhill ID, please check to avoid complaints.