Visitors to Nepal usually make their way to the ancient city of Kathmandu. Just the name can conjure up images of exotic places of worship. Many visitors to this city will be amazed at the modern sprawl that is home to monkeys as well as beggars. Diesel fumes permeate the city as history tries to keep up with the modernization of a fabled world.

It must be addressed that there are many dangers in visiting Nepal at this time because of the protests that are going on about the Chinese government towards the Tibetan people. Though Nepal is removed from this, it should be cautioned that if you travel to this region you may encounter some problems that don’t belong on a vacation itinerary.

When you visit this city, it is best to drink water from a bottle as there are many water-borne diseases that can make your stay quite uncomfortable. Travel experts advise that bringing along a water pump  to purify your personal water supply is in your best interest.

Experts recommend visiting Nepal in the months of October and November. This is the beginning of the dry season where you can enjoy balmy breezes and clean air. The countryside boasts a lushness following the monsoon, but the roads you need to travel may not be in the best of shape.

For the history buff in your party, Kathmandu will afford you with many opportunities to delve into Nepal’s past. There is a plethora of rose brick temples that have been carved by the ancients and right alongside it are the towers of the modern age.

Trekkers are Nepal’s most frequent visitors and there are national parks that will cater to their needs. In Kathmandu you will enjoy shopping and a variety of dining options including authentic Mexican cuisine. Do beware of Durbar Square and Thamel as the people that frequent these areas are often up to no good.

Nepal has many traits that the world traveler will not want to forsake. Get out your map and plan your trip to a world that is on the cusp of modern innovation and ancient history.

Sri Lanka is a magical place. It is an island that can be found off the coastal southeastern region of India. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, it is a sovereign and independent nation that enjoys its freedom.

There are three major languages spoken in Sri Lanka; English, Tamil and Sinhala. The main religion of this island nation is Buddhism with at least 70% of the population practicing it. Hinduism, Christianity and Islam are also practiced here.

The lowlands boast a tropical climate and the central hills are cooler. The monsoon season lasts from the months of May to July in the southwest, and in the northeastern region, the monsoon season takes place in the months of December and January. The climate of Sri Lanka makes it a vacation destination that can be visited any time of year.

Tip #1- The climate is that of the tropics, so be sure to pack plenty of cotton clothing. If you will be traveling to the lowlands, it is recommended you wear cool, comfortable attire. If you are traveling to the hill country, light clothing made of wool will be appreciated. Bring a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun.

Tip #2- When entering places of worship in Sri Lanka, you are advised to wear the proper clothing. In the Buddhist temples, your body should be fully covered. Bare shoulders and backs as well as shorts or skirts are not the normal mode of dress for worshipers or visitors. When you enter the shrines of the Hindus and Buddhists, you will be asked to remove all head coverings and footwear.

Tip #3- When you arrive at the Sri Lanka airport, be sure you visit the Travel Counter. It is open 24 hrs. a day and the staff is more than happy to assist those that are visiting their island home. You can also find travel information from centers at #80, Colombo 3 that can be found across from the Hotel Lanka Oberoi, Galle Road and at Kandy.