Travelling alone has never been easier - or so much fun. Here's how to do it the right way (and avoid those annoying singles supplements)

 

Why do we still cringe at the idea of a 'singles holiday'? After all, figures say that one in three Brits is single. Perhaps it's because going solo smacks of desperation ('Oh dear, couldn't you find anybody to tag along?') Yet there are millions of us, including many in relationships, who choose to holiday on our own. Some of us have interests we don't share with partners. Others value the freedom of travelling alone, or the thrill of meeting new people. Whatever the reason, here's how to plan the perfect solo voyage.

Datamatics, a group of computer cen­tres dispensing information technolo­gy knowledge, agrees with the decision of the authorities to "keep our secrets a

secret".

 

 

UNWTO Consulting Unit on Biodiversity and Tourism for Tsunami Affected Countries

 

In South-East Asia, ecosystems suffered considerable damages from 2004 tsunami. There were also areas which are playing an important role in international tourism that were severely affected. Thus, these countries have temporarily lost a significant source of income. At the same time it is observed that tourism activities had damaged ecosystems by deforestation of mangroves, over-exploitation of coral reefs, unregulated and inappropriate building activities in costal zones etc., reducing the environmental functions. The reconstruction and rehabilitation of tourism infrastructure offer a unique opportunity to maximise ecologically, economically and socially sustainable design and construction, benchmark key performance areas such as improving energy and water conservation, minimising pollutions, ensuring adequate land use planning and management, enhancing ecosystem conservation, and reducing harmful environmental, social and cultural impacts from tourism.

The rules to obtain a driving licence are being strength­ened for aspiring drivers. Even those who already hold valid licences will have to be extra care­ful when they get behind the wheels of their vehicles. Repeated defaulters may find their licence cancelled and will be required to undergo a test of road traffic code before they are allowed to go for another test.

 

Aspiring drivers will be com­pelled to present a medical cer­tificate certifying that they do not suffer from any non transmissible disease like cardio-vascular, epilepsy, Parkinson or any acute physical handicap. Those above 60 will also have to undergo certain detailed medical examinations every five years.

First time licences will be issued to those aged 18 and above after they successfully pass the oral and practical examinations. The licence, valid for only two years, will be made permanent only if the holder does not commit any seri­ous road traffic offence.