Finding a wiki host.

Wikis will be used to compile research on given project subjects.

Here is a list of free online wikis to choose from and link to:

www.intodit.com
www.rubbersquid.com
www.swiki.net
www.wikispot.org
www.wikia.com
www.wikidot.com
www.wikyblog.com
www.yourwiki.net

Homework: Look into what each wiki host has to offer. Choose one that best suits the GMYN for easy, efficient use and collaboration.

Is it possible to pull the wikis content INTO the blog?
Is it possible for users to interlink content easily?

Rick Steves' Through the Back Door

Useful excerpts for saving time, money and sanity.

p.2) Getting to and from the airport: ride the shuttle instead of taking a taxi.

p.3) Research each city online or in recent/updated publications for coupons, deals, renting/accommodation opportunities (craigslist, couchsurfing, classifieds, etc.).

If you're roughing it, look into: YMCA/YWCA, convents, renovated jails, hostels, dorm rooms.

Compare hostels to hotels (especially in the off-season): Some countries will have similar prices with different values.

Food & Drink: Picnics and BBQs (food from markets/grocery stores). Buy booze from grocery stores instead of at an establishment.

p.4) Divide the complete cost of your trip by waking hours and you'll see that time really is money. Don't wait in lines - consider making reservations or getting museum passes.

p.6) Touring vs. traveling alone: If money is saved with a tour guide's accommodation it's at the cost of real experience.

p.7) Foresee things: Re-confirm reservations, ask about local entertainment, read local entertainment listings, talk to locals.

p.8) When you travel with someone its easy to focus on your partner and forget about meeting Europeans. Solo travel is intensely personal = self-discovery.

p.10) Important to invest in an up-to-date guidebook for each city visited.

Before buying a book, study it (library). Photocopy relevant information and compile to make your own book. Stick to books covering the cities/regions you want to see (don't lug around weight you won't use).

Visual guides = less info. 'Knopf' = Best in terms of visual guides with information.

Mapbooks: Better to get free from Tourist Information (TI) booths.

p.11) Let's Go = Hostel bible. Lonely Planet = Solid guidebook. Rough Guides = More depth, from European perspective. Pauline Frommer Guides = Budgeting in big cities.

p.16) Blueguides = Ideal for history, art and architecture.Rick Steves' = Budget and planning oriented.

p.24) Cyclists and walkers need more detailed maps. (1:50,000 scale). Train travelers = less detailed maps (they come free with rail pass). City map = best option (make sure city centre is detailed).

p.25) Consider ease of use (folding, durability).

p.35) Many European countries requite that your passport be valid for 3 to 6 months after your ticketed date of return. Some countries require proof of medical insurance coverage. A passport works well for collateral when you're in a bind and you don't have cash on you. Always keep photocopies of your passport and ID.

International Youth Travel Card (IYTC) - Good for one year from date of issue.

p.38) Hostel membership card = valuable if staying at least 6 nights in a hostel.

p.39) Big name insurance companies are usually best bets: Comprehensive package i usually the most reliable. Includes: Cancellation, medical, and baggage. Most travel agents will sell insurance with the ticket.

p.40) Trip cancellation: Can be used by people in an organized tour or cruise.

Smart to buy insurance within a week of the date you make first payment on your trip.

p.63) Off-season Europe: Airfare is cheaper, fewer crowds, sleep cheaper.

Itinerary Skills

p.65) Most hotels charge less in the winter. To save money arrive late, notice how many rooms they have (keys on rack), let them know you're a hosteler with a particular price limit and bargain from there.

p.66) Research weather conditions, travel from North to South or South to North accordingly.

Alternate big cities with little villages. Figure in festivals according to date and location.

Leave some slack in your schedule.