Every week on this very blog, our super knowledgeable Travel Experts step up to answer a travel question sent in by one of our perplexed blog readers. If you’d like us to put your question to the Experts drop us an email now with the details, and it will be answered right here on the blog very soon!

This week’s question comes from Jennifer, who’s looking to take her travel adventures beyond Europe.

Hi, I’m a lone traveller, not particularly young, but have travelled all my life, mostly through Europe. Do you have any suggestions of other places outside of Europe that I could go? Nothing too simple/basic though please as I like to travel comfortably. Jennifer.

Say no more Jennifer, Amy is on the case. Let’s see what she’s got up her sleeve for you…

Yosemite National Park.

Amy Pearson from STA Travel Leeds Vicar Lane says…

A really good option for you would be to explore America, you can spend two weeks or your solid 90 day visa. A fantastic way of doing this would be travel coast to coast, so from New York City and finishing in Los Angeles. You can do this quite simply by using internal flights within the states or maybe even purchasing an Amtrak pass and enjoying the scenery as you travel. Hotels and hostels are also very cheap and they’re are some fantastic budget chains if you are wanting to economise, so your options are endless. Alternatively we have some great adventure tours if you want to relieve the stress of trying to do it on your own.

I would highly recommend spending some time in New Orleans, experience some authentic jazz and local cuisine in the French quarter. Memphis and Nashville would also be personal favourites of mine, as the home of country music you really can’t fail to have a brilliant night out. Austin in Texas is also a really interesting destination, as the home of ‘BBQ’ and the phrase ‘everything is bigger in Texas’ you may need to prepare for a few extra pounds in weight gain.

New Orleans.

Also, definitely worth doing would be to stay in a lodge in a National Park. Yosemite is a popular choice and we have some beautiful, affordable lodges situated in the Park itself. If you want to experience nature a bit more hands on, it may even be worth doing one of our tours and spending a couple of nights camping in some of the specially constructed camp sites, Yellowstone and the grand canyon all offer this option.

America has some different experiences to offer and you will see the landscape change dramatically as you travel between states, so I can guarantee you will never be bored, and as there isn’t a language barrier you should find this a relatively easy trip.

Kind of ruins the moment do you think? That’s why we’ve come up with a list of our favourite European cities that haven’t been ‘stagged’ yet. There will be no naked men tied to lamp posts or burping competitions here!

Porto.

Where to go to avoid the stag parties in Europe

Porto, Portugal

Porto is Portugal’s second largest city and is teeming with history, so much so, that UNESCO has declared it a world heritage site to protect the huge array of medieval, terraced, buildings, churches and the cobbled streets.

But it’s not all old buildings and churches. Porto is fast becoming a trendy hub for Portugal’s young and trendy crowd. Well known DJ’s play sets in the cities rising number of nightclubs and bars, and street parties are becoming more and more popular too. So come now, while Porto is still a city that hasn’t been stagged… Yet.

Verona, Italy

Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo? Sound familiar? Yep, Verona is the setting for one of Shakespeare’s most famous works, and as you’d probably expect from the setting of the most famous love story of all time, it’s oozing with beautiful architecture, and historic importance.

It’s everything an Italian city should be – and more. Take a walk along the Adige River, visit the Roman amphitheatre and take in an opera performance for the ultimate Italian experience.

Heidelberg, Germany

A beautiful city in South West Germany, Heidelberg is popular with tourists thanks to its pretty architecture, including the centuries old castle and the quaint old town area.

Christmas is a great time to visit for impressive decorations and the large Christmas market, selling a whole host of festive treats and traditional German food – it’s bratwurst heaven!

Heidelberg.

Tel Aviv, Israel

Yes, Israel is in Europe! Well, it’s in the Eurovision Song Contest so that’s good enough for me.

Tel Aviv has long been on many travellers ‘must do’ list thanks to its rich array of historic and cultural sites and its cosmopolitan feel. Over the past few years the city has grown at quite a rate and has emerged as a modern and exciting gateway to the Middle East.

Wander the flea market in Old Jaffa, take in an amazing view of the city at Azriely Lookout and hit the clubs in Tel Aviv Port.

Palermo, Sicily

Palermo is yours to discover, if you have the patience to explore. It’s a city of extremes; chaotic city streets and chilled side street cafes and crumbling, centuries old, churches beside modern tower blocks.

The great thing about that city is that you can really become a part of it. Mingle with the locals and absorb its character; with no major tourist sites to tick off the list, it’s all about getting a feel for the Sicilian lifestyle.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is a city that will surprise you. You’ll often hear people who have been talk about how it was better than they ever could have imagined it could be. Banish thoughts of dirty streets and aggressive street sellers from your mind. Istanbul is classy and, in large parts, surprisingly modern.

Explore the Grand Bazaar and sample the freshly caught sea food, cooked right in front of you for less than £2, visit the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque), take in the incredible sights and smells of the large spice market and sip a drink and smoke shisha in one of the many impressive roof top bars, including the 7 Hills Hotel; complete with a spectacular 360 degree view of the city.

Istanbul.

Murcia, Spain

One of Spain’s largest cities, Murcia is famous for delicious cuisine and fresh ingredients, expect thriving local markets and sprawling vineyards in the shadow the surrounding mountains and hills.

As one of Spain’s least travel to destinations, you can almost guarantee a peaceful trip as you visit Murcia Cathedral, walk along the dramatic coastline outside the city and sink some Spanish beers in street cafes.

Gothenburg, Sweden

It may sound like somewhere Batman would live but Gothenburg is actually much cooler than that (yeah, it’s totally possible to be cooler than Batman FYI)

A huge student city, you’ll never be short of a party to go to. Spend your nights living it up and your days exploring the historic sites, such as Gothenburg Cathedral, Crown House and the City and Art Museums.

If you’re dreaming of travelling, it’s likely that this kind of scene regularly features in your plans, and there are some pretty amazing places out there. So many in fact, that we’ve been inspired to create a list of our own favourites.

Our Pick of the World’s Best Beach Bars

Café Mambo, San Antonio, Ibiza

When it comes to the best beach bars in the world, there’s no way we could leave out Café Mambo in San Antonio, Ibiza. This place is legendary for 2 main reasons; 1) Superstar DJ’s use it as their warm for gigs at many of the big Ibiza club nights and 2) It’s the perfect spot to soak up what it probably one of the best, most atmospheric, sunsets in the world.

Expect it to be teeming with San Antonio’s cool crowd, so get there early if you want a comfy spot for the epic sunset.

The Ibiza legend that is Cafe Manbo. Image courtesy of ST33VO on Flickr.

Badeschiff, Berlin, Germany

A beach bar? In Berlin? Yep, you read that right, and a pretty awesome beach bar it is too. Badeschiff is a man made bar set right on the edge of the Spree River.

Locals and tourists gather to relax on sunbeds, sip beers and soak up some summer sun in the centre of the city, between dips in the impressive swimming pool that spans out onto the river. It’s a little taste of the beach life right in the middle of Berlin, a slightly surreal, but massively fun experience.

Slinky Beach Bar, Koh Phi Phi Island, Thailand

As anyone who’s been to Koh Phi Phi Island will tell you, this place is not short of spots for a cheeky cocktail on the beach, in fact, its beach bar paradise. You’re spoilt for choice on Koh Phi Phi when it comes to amazing beach parties, but if you’re going to push me for one, it has to be Slinky.

Expect buckets of booze, fire dancers, thumping music, fireworks and lots of excitable travellers dancing the night away right next to the waters edge.

Slinky Bar, Koh Phi Phi, is one of Thailands biggest party spots. Image Courtesy of kartikmahajan on Flickr.

Republica, St Kilda Beach, Australia

Curl up in one of the hanging egg chairs, drink in hand, and people watch ‘till your heart’s content at this sociable beach bar, on the edge of St Kilda Beach.

Republica is always packed and it’s famous for its great food, cold beer and buzzing atmosphere. On a weekend there’s live music and with the bar positioned right on the beach this is the perfect place to spend a summers evening in Victoria.

Shipwreck Hut, Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are a little drop of heaven right here on earth, and the Shipwreck Bar, part of Aro’a Beachside Inn, is one of the best places to soak up the surroundings.

Jump in a hammock, grab a cocktail (their Opu Ra Magic cocktails are pretty legendary – and lethal) and be prepared to dance the night away. Don’t worry the only dress code in this particular bar are flip flops and shades!

If you get there at the right time, you’ll be able to see whales in the ocean, right next to the shore too – beats a night down the local that’s for sure!

Curlies, Anjuna, Goa, India

Anjuna somehow manages to mix a Goan hippy vibe with ravers heaven. By day the infamous Curlies bar, situated at the end of Anjuna beach, is a chilled out haven for hung-over revellers and by night it transformed into one of the biggest party hotspots in the west coast of India.

It’s a huge place, and is a favourite with travellers and hard partying locals so if you’re keen to meet a wide mix of new people while in India, head here.

Curlies Bar, right on Anjuna Beach Goa.

Hula Hula Beach Bar, Hvar, Croatia

Hvar is the top hang out for Croatia’s hipster set, and Hula Hula Beach Bar sits right on the edge of the divine Adriatic Sea making it the perfect candidate to be one of our top eight.

If you’re into a holiday which is more cocktails and sun loungers than buckets and damp towels, with a good dose of celeb spotting potential thrown in for good measure, this is the place for you.

Sand Bar, Naples, Florida, USA

This bar may be part of the rather lavish Ritz-Charlton Resort, but don’t let that discourage you from visiting, this place is much more laid back and accessible and its spot, perfectly situated on the idyllic shores of the Gulf of Mexico, delivers a not to be missed beach bar experience.

Pull up a chair and watch the world go by as you sip a fruity cocktail on the edge of the sand, and the best thing about this bar? Keep you’re eyes peeled for passing dolphins in the waters directly in front of you.

Adventures don’t come much more electrifying than this; feel your heart beat through your chest as you come up close to some of the biggest and most powerful animals on the planet, including the notorious ‘Big 5’, lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo.

This week we’ve been inspired to select a ‘Big 5′ of our very own, here’s our five favourite African safaris…

Search for the 'Big 5' on the great plains of Africa.

Our Pick of the Most Amazing Safari Experiences

Cape Town to Nairobi

The mother of all safari experiences, this mammoth 40 day trans-Africa trip starting in Cape Town, South Africa, will take you on an epic journey across the heart of this amazing continent.

Taking in the best game viewing in South Africa’s Western Cape, including Namibia’s Etosha National Park, the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park in Botswana and the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation area in Tanzania, this is not just any safari experience; it’s the adventure of a lifetime.

See more details on this trip.

Crise along the Okovango Delta in a canoe.

Dunes, Deltas and Falls

As the name suggests, this is a trip packed with a wide range of African experiences, including a visit to the famous Victoria Falls and the Okovango Delta, an area rich in some of Africa’s most sought after game viewing opportunities.

Cruise lazy rivers a dug-out canoe, meet the San Bushmen and marvel at Fish River Canyon as you absorb the highlights of Africa’s wilderness and wildlife.

See more details on this trip.

Spend time gazing at the incredible Victoria Falls.

Tanzania Camping Safari

Sleep beneath the stars in the great African outdoors, where the only alarm clock you’ll need is the sound of elephants rustling around for food on near by river banks.

This is a unique opportunity to mingle with the wildlife of Africa in its natural habitat. Explore the Great Rift Valley and meet local Masaai tribes before settling down for another night around a camp fire in the wilderness.

See more details on this trip.

Not a bad view to wake up to in the morning.

Kenya Safari Experience

If you’re desperate for that authentic safari experience but aren’t overly keen on the idea of actually sleeping in the wild, then this trip with its extra level of comfort has got your name written all over it.

Head to Kenya, one of Africa’s safari hotspots, where you’ll get to see flamingos stopping for a drink in Lake Nakuru, while exploring the wild plains of the Masaai Mara National Reserve, all in the shadow of the mighty Mt Kilimanjaro. The amazing part? All this comes with the added comfort of sleeping tucked up in a proper bed – every night.

See more details on this trip.

Visit the Masaai People.

Southern Africa Encompassed

The perfect trip for anyone who wants to pack a lot, into a relatively short space of time. This 15 day trip through Southern Africa will see you trying to spot the elusive Big 5 in the legendary Kruger National Park, as well as tracking rhinos, in Matobo national park and cruising through the winding waters of the Okovango Delta before scooting over the border to explore the less travelled terrain of Zimbabwe.

See more details on this trip.

So, I’ve made it my mission to seek out 8 of Europe’s best, most secluded, beaches, so that you have the opportunity to experience some deserted, tranquility for yourself.

But shhhhh! These beaches are heavenly, hidden secrets – let’s keep them that way.

Myrtos, Kefalonia.

8 of Europes Best Hidden Beaches

Praia da Ingrina, Algarve, Portugal

If you like a dose of culture with your seclusion, then Praia de Ingrina is the prefect option for some European beach time.

At the very south of Portugal’s Algarve sits this beautiful beach and nature reserve. Spend some time spotting the sea eagles and falcons floating effortlessly in the blue skies above and watching local fisher men at work, while you enjoy some serious chill time on the sand or in one of the few quiet beach bars.

Aguas Blancas, Ibiza

A beautiful sandy beach that meets the clear, warm Mediterranean water and is a firm favourite with the residents of Ibiza. Although it’s not completely deserted, it is very quiet, and, ok, it is technically a nudist beach – but I’m including it in this countdown because you don’t have to get naked. Some people do, some people don’t, there’s no pressure – you just need to make sure you’re not fazed by those that decided they want an all over tan.

This is where the island’s ex clubbers go to chill after their hardcore party. Expect a slightly hippy vibe but with all the ‘coolness’ you’d expect from a trip to Ibiza.

Aguas Blancas, Ibiza.

Espalmador, Formentera

It’s located a ferry ride from Ibiza (there’s no airport so you’ll need to fly into Ibiza and get a ferry across) and although Formentera itself isn’t exactly much of a secret, what is lesser known is exactly how amazing its beaches really are. Less European and more Carribbean, a stay here is definitely more expensive than most other places on the continent, but it’s worth the cash you’ll have to splash, this is pristine island living without the hefty transatlantic price tag – so if you think about it, technically you’re saving money… kind of.

Sitting off the Northwest tip of the island is Espalmador, a deserted sandy heaven that is about as secluded and pristine as you’re likely to find anywhere in Europe. It maybe a little more effort than most places to get to, but it’s absolutely worth the trouble.

Cabo de Gata, Spain

Cabo de Gata is a small, but perfectly formed beach in the South East of Spain, it’s only really visited by locals and offers a completely untouched and natural feel. Spend time wandering through the local fishing villages, or just enjoying the simplicity of the areas clean and quiet beach and local wildlife.

Punta Molentis, Sardinia

While many of the holiday makers in Sardinia flock to the north coast, a little further south there’s a more laid back, less glitzy, atmosphere to be found.

The coast of Punta Molentis is a beautiful sandy beach, entombed between cliff faces near the village of Villasimius. There’s not a huge tourist trade here, which is why the area often secluded, giving you the chance to enjoy some peace and get to know the real essence of Sardinia.

Punta Molentis, Sardinia.

Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia, Greece

Myrtos beach is a snug, little hidden cove of a beach, nestled between rocks in Kefalonia, Greece. It’s not quite as quiet as the others on the list – spots as beautiful as this will only stay a secret for so long – but you’ll struggle to find somewhere more impressive, it’s one of Greece’s most photographed beaches (and they have a lot to choose from!)

Smuggler’s Cove, Zakynthos, Greece

It’s back to Greece for our next choice and probably the most secluded beach of them all. Smuggler’s Cove can only be reached by boat and offers a lot more than just turquoise waters and golden sands. You’ll be able to explore the 25 year old ship wreck that is half buried under the sand and may even – if you’re lucky – get to swim among sea turtles in the warm surrounding waters.

Smuggler's Cove, Zakynthos.

Plage de Saleccia, Corsica, France

There’s a bit of effort required to get to this kilometre line of soft sandy beach, but if you think about it, all the best places do require effort; otherwise they aren’t going to be secluded and hidden from the crowd. You’ll need to take a boat and walk the rest of the way but it’s always quiet and absolutely worth it.

Rolling green hills cascade down to meet a small stretch of sandy beach and some of the most beautiful water you’ll find anywhere in France.

St Peters Pool, Delimara Peninsula, Malta

Rent a car and head down to the Delimara Peninsula, Malta for a spectacular blue lagoon type deserted beach hidden from the rest of the world at the foot of a rocky cliff face.

Take the small path down to the small but perfectly formed beach – it’s the ideal spot for some quiet snorkelling and sunbathing.

Daniel’s here to tell us a little bit about his working holiday experience in Australia and explain why he believes following in his footsteps maybe one of the best decisions you could ever make…

Here's Daniel enjoying a day off from work on Bondi Beach.

Daniel Tells us about life as a surf school photographer and blog guru in Sydney.

I first heard about the Live Like an Aussie competition when I was checking my emails. I get regular updates from STA Travel on deals and competitions and I had wanted to go to Australia for a long time, so I thought I would enter just in case I did win as I thought it would be an amazing opportunity.

I felt a bit anxious travelling to Australia knowing how much large it is, but it was a good kind of anxious – mixed in with a lot of excitement. When I left, the anxiousness started to go away and the adrenalin kicked in!

At first I felt a bit lost as Australia is such a big place, but those feelings soon faded when I made friends in my hostel, and when I started work at Let’s Go Surfing. I had a great first day at the surf school on Bondi Beach in Sydney, learning how to get the best use out of the camera and take some really cool pictures.

I was also walked through the process of how the business works and told how to use the computers etc, which was particularly useful and made me feel a lot more comfortable and very welcome. I really enjoyed my time at Let’s Go Surfing, it was always extremely busy and kept me on my toes, but it was so much fun and I found that whenever I needed help I could ask for it, my colleauges Marty and David were particularly helpful.

I worked at Let’s Go Surfing for about a month before I headed off travelling. I had been put on the rota for the next week, so I’m assuming I could have stayed longer if I wanted to, and I would have liked to, but I was itching to start travelling around New South Wales and the rest of the East coast.

I made a lot of great friends while over in Australia, including Erin & Kristina my Canadian friends, who I spent a lot of time with at several points in my journey, and Ashley who I spent two weeks travelling with after we shared a hostel room in Bondi; in fact there are too many awesome people to name!

Bondi Beach, not a bad place to come to work everyday.

I loved my time in Australia and would highly recommend the trip, it was an amazing experience. I would advise anyone that’s going to really make the most of the time they have there and to have a vague idea of you want to get out of your time while travelling.

Thanks Daniel, sounds like you had an amazing time! A working holiday in Australia is, without a doubt, an incredible opportunity, and one you sould grab with both hands while you can. New South Wales is home to a huge number of working holiday opportunities that will make sure you have not only the time of your life, but also you can try your hand at some pretty amazing working experiences so different from anything you’re likely to find here in the UK.

If you’re even contemplating a working holiday then you must watch the video below. Here’s someone who’s swapped the dreary streets of England for the glamour of koala poo and seal feeding – and hasn’t looked back…

With some of the most grand and well preserved history in the world, beautiful landscapes able to rival any other you’ll find on the European continent and cosmopolitan cities, full of examples of the very cultural phenomenon’s that help our tiny island lead the way in terms of inspirational arts, music, dance, food, theatre, and architecture.

During this weeks High Five I’m taking a while to stop, reflect, and consider all the amazing places to visit and the fantastic experiences we have right here under our very noses – places that you can often get to during a free weekend.

The Roman Baths, Bath.

Five Experiences you must Embrace in Good Old Great Britain

Wander Through Town…

Britain is full of towns and cities that exude the very best of ‘Britishness’ including the winding country roads, cobbled streets and ye olde fashioned buildings we are famous for all over the world.

Bath, Somerset is one of the best examples of this – a city made up of the most beautiful, sandy coloured, Georgian architecture, it’s also home to sprawling parks and the Roman Baths – the pools of natural spring water we’re officially opened in 1870, it’s hard to imagine a more beautiful place to spend a sunny day.

Just 20 miles down the road is Bristol which is without a doubt the most hip city in Great Britain (yes, yes I am Bristolian but it’s true!) Home to drum and bass, cloudy cider and Banksy, this is a city with a seriously cool legacy.

Then there’s Edinburgh. With its famous castle gracefully casting its protectful eye over the Scottish capital from the top of Castle Rock, Edinburgh is one of Great Britain’s most trendy, culture filled, and vibrant cities. Try and visit during the comedy festival for an extra buzz.

Visit Great Britain's capital of cool - Bristol.

…And Country

Great Britain is home to some of the most gorgeous countryside to be found anywhere in the world, it’s what we’re famous for so make sure you get out of the city and explore.

Head to the Cotswolds for an authentic taste of quaint, English county life. Stay in a cottage with a roaring fire and ivy crawling up the side of the brick walls, the perfect romantic weekend away – just don’t forget you’re wellies!

Then there’s the secluded beauty of the Lake District National Park in the North West of England. Sprawling lakes and huge mountains make it the perfect place to be as active or as inactive as you like – if hiking is your thing you’ll find Scafell Pike the highest mountain in England and if it’s not – well, then just enjoy the view – it’d be hard to find better anywhere in Britain.

The Cotswolds represent the very best of British countryside.

Absorb some Culture and History

For a small isle, we definitely pack a cultural punch. It’s what makes this our great nation tick – millions of people passionate about the essence of both old and modern Britain. Head to London and visit the Tate Modern, Buckingham Palace and take in a show at the Royal Albert Hall to be a proper tourist. Then head east to Brick Lane and Shoreditch for a cooler experience with some super hip locals.

Then there’s what is probably Britain’s most famous historical landmark – Stonehenge. This amazingly ancient, prehistoric monument dates back to 2600BC and is thought to be an ancient burial ground, so it’s no surprise that it’s a famous pilgrimage site for spirituals from all over the world. Go for sunrise for the ultimate peaceful atmosphere.

Visit Stonehenge one of the oldest creations in the world - right here on our doorstep.

Indulge in Some Serious Food Glorious Food

We may not be the original home of the Onion Baji, Pad Thai or Sagg Aloo but we have some pretty yummy food for the taking here too. And a lot of the time, we don’t just eat it for the taste – it’s the entire experience.

A few of the best include eating fish and chips as you walk along the promenade of Brighton beach, or taking afternoon tea at the Ritz (go on spoil yourself!) or sampling a famous pie and mash concoction at an east end café in London.
Maybe even scoffing a kebab from the Turkish place in the city centre after a night out. Ok, maybe not.

Cream Tea - Yum!

Visit the Coast

The coastline of Britain is hugely diverse; you can expect a dramatically different experience wherever you go. For example, the famous white cliffs of Dover, stand tall and proud along the country’s South East coast while just a mere 200 or so miles along the road you come to Weymouth, with it’s beautiful sandy beach and traditional ice cream stands and sticks of rock.

My own personal favourite place for some serious beach time has to be Newquay, Cornwall. A huge stretch of sandy meets some of the best ocean to be found anywhere in Great Britain. It’s a big surfers town and you’ll find no better place to spend time surfing and body boarding.

There’s no way I could mention the incredible coast lines of Britain and leave out Scotland. Constantly chosen as the many a tourist’s favourite country in the UK Scotland’s coastline is famous not only for its beauty, but also for what you can find in its chilly waters too – head to the Orkney, Shetland Islands and the Isle of Skye to see colonies of seals with their pups and Minke Whales. A trip such as Island Explorer is the perfect way to sit back, and enjoy the ride.

Michelle has 11 years experience in the industry, and now works closely with our teams in our STA Travel Clinics, in Liverpool and Manchester.

This week, she’s chosen to focus on one of the world’s most misunderstood diseases, yellow fever. These are the facts, as seen through the eyes and experience of Michelle, a professional nurse.

10 Facts About Yellow Fever, to get you started

1. Yellow fever is a viral illness, which is spread via the bite of infected mosquitoes, which are most active during the daytime.

2. The infection occurs in 3 cycles: Jungle, Urban and Intermediate. Monkeys are the usual hosts in the jungle cycle but humans can become infected when they enter these areas.

3. Yellow fever is a serious illness. Around 50% of those who develop the more serious symptoms will die.

4. Some people will just have flu-like symptoms, but many will have a more severe disease including jaundice, bleeding and organ failure.

5. There is no specific cure for yellow fever; treatment focuses on keeping the patient comfortable, and relieving symptoms.

6. The disease affects 45 countries, and the World Health Organisation estimates there are 200,000 cases causing around 30,000 deaths a year, although the majority of cases go unreported.

7. Yellow fever occurs in parts of Central and South America, and Africa. It doesn’t occur in Asia, despite the correct climatic conditions and mosquitoes being present.

8. The slave trade is thought to be responsible for the spread of the disease outside Africa.

9. The risk is thought to be significantly higher in Africa, than South America.

10. Outbreaks also occurred in Europe and USA in the 18th and 19th centuries.

This is an aedes mosquito, one of the varieties that carries the yellow fever disease.

8 Facts About the Prevention of Yellow Fever

1. The main means of protection is by vaccination, alongside mosquito bite prevention methods (repellents, clothing, nets etc.).

2. International Health Regulations exist to prevent the spread of the disease to unaffected countries. An official certificate is issued whenever a yellow fever vaccine is given: keep it safe, you may be asked to show it at airports, land borders or ports.

3. The vaccination can only be administered at special Yellow Fever Centres, like our Travel Clinics in Liverpool and Manchester.

4. The yellow fever vaccine is a ‘live vaccine’ and is not suitable for everyone, such as those with compromised immune systems, or those with an egg allergy.

5. Rare serious side effects following vaccination have been reported, especially in very young babies and those over 60. Discuss the relative risks with your travel health adviser. It may be appropriate that an exemption certificate is issued.

6. The vaccine is extremely effective (around 95% of those vaccinated will respond).

7. It should be given 10 days or more before travelling to yellow fever risk areas to be fully effective and for the certificate to be valid. If you are travelling at shorter notice discuss with a travel health adviser.

8. The certificate is valid for 10 years although the protection of the vaccine is thought to last much longer in the majority of cases.

That’s 18 facts, which are intended to give you some level-headed advice about this deadly disease. We choose to give you the facts, instead of shying away from the reality of these ailments, because we believe it’s so important for travellers, young and old (and in the middle) to arm themselves with the best prevention.

Always check your vaccination recommendations/requirements before travelling. Although yellow fever is a rare disease in travellers, it is extremely dangerous.

We’ve heard horror stories of travellers being vaccinated and/or kept in quarantine, because they couldn’t show a valid vaccination certificate when asked at border controls. Vaccinations for yellow fever start at just £58, so now you know the facts, get yourself into one of our Travel Clinics.

Each fortnight, we pit one of our Travel Experts against one of you wonderful travel lovers, asking each a set of five questions designed to test their travel knowledge, stories, and general bragging rights.

Fancy taking part and sharing your travel love with the world? Just drop us an email, and we’ll get right back to you with five questions of your very own.

So, without further ado, let’s meet this week’s brave contenders, who are prepared to shout about their travel love loud and proud…

Who’s Stepping up to The Gauntlet This Week?

In the Red Corner it’s…

Travel lover Stewart Plumridge! Stewart used to work in the travel industry, so has lots of stories and memories of a few freebie trips tucked under his belt. Here he is enjoying the view in Javea, Spain.

Stewart living la vida loca in Spain

In the Blue Corner It’s…

Our very own Cathal O’Connor, Travel Expert at STA Travel in Liverpool. A fountain of travel knowledge, Cathal has more than a few surreal travel experiences up his sleeve. Here he is…

Let the Travel battle commence!

Where in the world have you found the tastiest food?

Stewart

When I was in Costa Rica, I was really keen to try some different cuisine and Latin America in general didn’t disappoint. A mix of Pacific and Caribbean flavours meant there was certainly no lack of choice. I went to a coffee plantation near San Jose and was served Tilapia. It’s is a fish that was very yummy with some plantain!

Cathal

South America! Argentinean steaks are the shiznick! As soon as I arrived I went to an all you can eat steakhouse and ate 8 steaks in a day. The dining experience at La Cabrera in Buenos Aires was exceptional. My steak came with about 6 different sauces and it was divine! It was the thickness of the length of a business card and the same size as your computer screen.

 

What’s your weirdest travel experience?

Stewart

In Sri Lanka, I was treated to a world-famous Siddhalepa Ayurveda massage. Because of religion, I had a masseur which I was okay with. Naturally, I was a little dubious and out of my comfort zone, but decided to roll with it to get the most out of the experience. 45 minutes of rough massage was followed by being bathed and scrubbed by leaves – is that weird enough?!

Cathal

I have many surreal experiences, but the one that tops it was probably when I came out from a nightclub in Spain, and my cousin and I got invited to head on the bin round with the local bin men. We stood on the platforms at the back of the truck hanging on for dear life when being swished round the corners. They eventually dropped up back off at our accommodation.

 

Urban hunter, or rural explorer?

Stewart

Oh, a tough one. My favourite cities are cosmopolitan and steeped in history – a great mix of old and new. But, I would say that I am a rural explorer. Climbing mountains, trekking through forest and fauna and discovering the undiscovered is what I enjoy. This way, you come across challenges, great sights and amazing wildlife.

Cathal

Urban hunter, as I love the vibe of cities and always have. The city is where all the weirdos and the parties are at (the two things I look for in life, obviously!).

 

Guidebook, app’d up, or travelling blind?

Stewart

I think it all depends on where you are, but I have always been someone who reads a guidebook from cover to cover on the outbound flight and go with instinct once I have the license to explore.

Cathal

Guide booked up! You need to make the most of your time whilst you’re away. If you get an idea of the area then you feel more comfortable and get more from your trip, in my opinion. Saying that, some of the best places I’ve been to have just been from me going on a little wander. Guidebooks are the way forward and if you discover anything else then it is a bonus.

 

Before I’d gone travelling, I wish someone had told me…

Stewart

To take more photos. I am notoriously bad at remembering to take photos and would have had an amazing collection and story to tell by now. Cameras in mobile phones make life easier now though – so no more excuses.

Cathal

To make a travel picture diary from the beginning of your travels. I’ve made a book and have drawn all the funny stories that I have come across. I have entries from Australia, Croatia, Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil at the moment. I wish I had this idea from the start of my travelling experiences. “Do you want to see my book?” is a wonderful conversation starter.

 

That’s it for this week’s installment of the Travel Gauntlet, If you’d like to pit your own travel experiences and knowledge against that of one of our STA Travel Experts send us an email, and you can share your story right here on the STA Travel Blog!

]]> http://www.statravel.co.uk/travel-blog/2013/05/the-travel-gauntlet-stewart-vs-cathal/feed/ 0 http://www.statravel.co.uk/travel-blog/2013/05/how-much-money-will-i-need-to-travel-in-australasia-for-three-months/ http://www.statravel.co.uk/travel-blog/2013/05/how-much-money-will-i-need-to-travel-in-australasia-for-three-months/#comments Thu, 02 May 2013 11:45:32 +0000 Francoise Daines http://www.statravel.co.uk/travel-blog/?p=16949 Your auntie’s next door neighbour’s son spent £2000; your best mate’s older sister spent £5000; and the guy in the coffee shop said you’d only need £3000. So how much money do you need to travel Australia and New Zealand, for three months?

There’s never going to be a firm answer. Some people will eat more, drink less, give hitch-hiking a go, refuse to share a dorm, hire a campervan. Everyone will have their own — and very different — expectations of what they want from a trip to Australia and New Zealand, but we believe it’s possible to calculate a rough budget guide.

I’ve broken down the three months into eight weeks in Australia, including two weeks in a campervan, and four weeks in New Zealand. Remember, this is just a rough guide, and prices can (and do) fluctuate. If you have some information on the cost of travel in this region, add to the conversation via the comment thread below this post.

How much does accommodation cost in Australia

Compared to other traveller hot-spots, such as Southeast Asia, accommodation Down Under doesn’t come cheap. Dorm prices range from around £16-27 per night, depending on how many people you share with. The more popular cities, such as Sydney and Melbourne, and others along the east coast, will sit at the higher end of the scale.

Private rooms in hostels will cost at least £10 more than dorms, and hotels start from £60 per person. Our advice ― stick to the dorms!

So if you’re spending six weeks in shared hostel accommodation, which is on average about £20 per night, then you’re looking at a bill for around £672.

How much does food and drink cost in Australia

The cost of food and drink is quite similar to the UK. And let’s be honest, this isn’t that friendly on the pocket. Most of us would struggle to buy three meals a day and hit the clubs every night, so it’s advisable to have a few nights off from the booze, and enjoy a hearty hostel-cooked meal every now and again.

There are two main supermarkets in Australia ― Coles and Woolworths ― and they’re perfect for picking up the basics. Stocking up on a week’s worth of food shopping would cost around £40, which works out to £5 a day.

Price breakdown of  food and drink in Australia

Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: £6
Sit down meal for 2: £50
McDonalds meal: £5.30
Bottle of 500ml water: £1.33 (Australian tap water is safe to drink)
Can of coke: £1.99
Beer: £4.50 – £7.50
Goon bag (2 litres of cheap, hangover inducing wine): £7

So if we’re looking at £5 per day from your weekly shop, at least one beer a day, one goon bag a week, about 7 ‘meals on the go’, and a can of coke or a bottle of water a day, your daily food and drink spend comes to around £20, which equates to £1120 over the 8 weeks.

Cost of getting around Australia

Australia’s a big old country, so this have an effect on the cost of your trip, and is likely to devour your budget like a ravenous Tassie Devil. One of the most cost effective ways of getting around would be a campervan (more on that later) but you can also get some very reasonable domestic flights.

A one-way flight from Sydney to Melbourne, for example, will cost around £35, or if you’re looking at heading from the East Coast to West Coast, Melbourne to Perth one-way starts from around £69.

Rail travel is also a great shout, and there are loads of cross country passes available that are valid for three months.

The Rail Explorer Pass would set you back £325 and gives you the opportunity to explore both coastal and outback Australia including Darwin, Alice Springs, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth.

Riding the Greyhound bus is another popular choice, with Kilometre Travel Passes ranging from £64 for 500km to £1514 for 25,000km.

If you get the Rail Explorer Pass, a 500km Greyhound pass, and book at least one flight for £35, you’ll part with £424. You’re likely base yourself in some of Australia’s cities on more than one occasion, so be sure to set aside some cash for the public transport. A train fare in Melbourne starts from £2.30 and taxis in Sydney will set you back £7 for 3km.

Taking all the above into account, a budget of about £15-£20 per day should cover you for state to state, and inner-city transport over 6 weeks.

What Will It Cost to Enjoy Two Weeks in a Campervan

Travelling by campervan is a hugely popular, accessible, and fun option to see the great land of Oz. Doubling up as your transport and accommodation in one, it can be a very economical way of getting around.

Remember, you can’t just ‘camp’ anywhere in your van ― you’ll usually need to pay to pitch up in an official spot for the night. Park anywhere, and you’ll risk an early and unwelcome wake-up call from the police and a hefty fine.

Estimated cost per person of a two week trip from Brisbane to Cairns (1065 miles) in a 3-berth camper:

Campervan fr £177 each (based on a 3-berth camper fr £38 per day)
Petrol cost fr £47 each
Camping ground hire fr £98 (roughly £20 per night per campervan)

Total cost to hire a campervan for two weeks equals £322

Cost of Travelling Around in New Zealand

Your eight weeks in Australia is over, and  you’ve landed in the adventure capital of the world, New Zealand. Although tiny in comparison to the beast that is Australia, this place is still packing in the land mass stakes.

Domestic flights are cheap as chips here ― a one-way flight from Auckland in the North Island, to Christchurch in the South Island will cost you around £35.

But it’s the hop-on hop-off bus passes that are the most favoured way of hitting all the must-see hot spots. If you’re spending a month here, grab yourself a Kiwi Experience pass ― most passes will take you around both islands, and although you could probably save some money arranging your own transport, you’ll miss out on some awesome experiences, and some awesome people.

The Kitchen Sink Pass costs £559 and requires at least 22 days to complete. Perfect if you’re spending a month in New Zealand.

How much does accommodation cost in New Zealand

Kiwi Experience passes don’t include accommodation, and you’re free to book up wherever you want in each stop. Dorm rooms are a little cheaper than Australia and average around £16 per night. For a private room you’re looking at £23.

28 nights at £16 per night totals £448.

Cost of food and drink in New Zealand

If you’ve ever met anyone that’s been to New Zealand, chances are they’ve mentioned Fergburger and Hells Pizza. Fast food here is #FirstClass, so be prepared to part with a little more cash than in Australia.

Kiwi Experience is known for its party nights, so take a dose of willpower and try not to blow your budget entirely on alcohol!

Price breakdown of food and drink in New Zealand:

Meal at inexpensive restaurant: £8.50
Sit down meal for 2: £44
McDonalds meal: £5.50
Bottle of 500ml water: £1.41 (New Zealand tap water is safe to drink)
Can of coke: £1.55
Beer: £4.50 – £7.00

Roughly £19 per day is a realistic amount, and would keep you covered for grabbing food on the go, and stocking up on essentials. Keep the costs down by testing your sandwich making skills to the test in hostel kitchens.

Total food and drink costs for four weeks totals £532.

Cost of Adrenaline Sports in Australia and New Zealand

You can’t always put a price on fun, and although there’s lots of free fun to be had in Australasia, there’s also a lot that’ll burn a very deep hole in your pocket.

The type of activities you chose depend on the person you are, so it’s impossible to estimate how much you’ll spend. What I will do, is list six of our top selling activities in Australia and New Zealand, so you can get a rough idea of how much the good times could set you back.

1. Learn to dive on the Great Barrier Reef fr £526
2. Byron Bay surf lesson fr £47
3. Official neighbours tour fr £34
4. Skydive in Taupo, New Zealand fr £148
5. Bungy jump and bungy swing, Queenstown fr £81
6. Hike the Fox Glacier fr £62

This all adds up to £898, but I’d recommend rounding this up to £1000 for activities.

So there you have it, three months in Australasia. Which totals around £5,493.

This is just for accommodation, transport, food, drink and activities, and doesn’t include money for miscellaneous items. Remember, this isn’t a stab at getting by on a minimum budget, it’s a realistic and general estimate.

Sound like a lot? Has it made your bank balance shed a little tear? Why not check out our working holiday options in Australia and New Zealand, and earn some cash while you travel. If you spent more, or less money, or have any tips or thoughts about spending money Down Under let us know in the little comment box below.

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