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Posted

Can someone give me some advice on good kitesurfing destinations abroad. I am new to kitesurfing so it cant be too advanced. It also needs to be somewhere with a nice beach in the sun.

Cheers Lakers

Posted
im going on holiday to sharm el shake soon

 

well i hope your not taking any kites with you, waste of luggage space, there is NOWHERE!! to kite in sharm el sheikh, only diveing and small sunbathing beaches,

 

what a bummer, nearest kitesurfing location to sharm is moon beach, 4 hrs from sharm, of course there are beaches that are nearer, bit risky!! only nomads on camels with guns at or near them. some of them don't like tourists, :(

Posted

Off topic i know BUT

How is it that when a kite importer and retailer posted, pimping there kites the board maffia pulled the plug on the post

Yet here we have what appears to be a company pimping for the umteenth time a villa or apartment to let. where is the maffia now. Maybee its just because flexi dont do holidays ?

El Mick

Posted

chill out guys nothing wrong with some free advertizing. you chaps might have seen his advert before but many will not have done and may be interested,not everyone wants a package holiday :)

 

 

 

90misfit

115stubbie

128tt pro

mtx

6 boxer

8 x4

10 x3

12 x10

12 x3

14 v4

Posted

Oooo, so many choices, IMO better to know about the accomodation available, vested interests or not. keep the kite friendly resort info coming, or take the chill pills!

 

Well we're looking @ Moonbeach maybe July or Sept?

http://www.moonbeachretreat.com/start.html

(No vested interests other than getting the best deal possible:) )

 

But still ain't heard from anyone that's been there. Any feedback? Good info on travel times, but what's the resort really like????

 

Is it worth flying from Cairo?

Posted

It depends on which time of year you plan on going. If you are looking for a good summer destination Cypruss is excellent - probably the most consistent wind I have kited in, with relatively flat water.

 

Hurghada in Egypt can be ok, however the wind can be a bit gusty there. The downside with any Egypt Location is the Egyptians, trying to rip you off, anyway that they can.

 

I found Fuerte fun, but you have to be able to kite upwind. I will probably head back there in April for a week.

Posted
It depends on which time of year you plan on going. If you are looking for a good summer destination Cypruss is excellent - probably the most consistent wind I have kited in, with relatively flat water.

 

Mmmmm, just found a site from BKSA on Cyprus looks so gud, g/f is keen to go as well. http://www.cyprus-wind.com/html.htm:cool:

 

Mark, - never had problems in Egypt. We just love to haggle though. It is however Much cheaper/easier to get to Cyprus from Newcastle.

 

Anybody got details of deals on accom/vehicle hire in Cyprus?

Posted

yeh i'm on for the same thing i should have about a grand to speand on every thing (once i'v sold some kit), and am free to go any time, i'm looking for somewhere that is cheap to stay as i'm hoping to go for a cupple of months. i was thinking of south africa as they have good condtions this time of year. dose any body know the avarage kite size used there this time of year? any other places spain in the winter? do they have any wind? looking to leave in the next cupple of weeks? also looked at moon beach staing and maby teaching in exchange for a room but i heard the wind is little and far between in the winter?

 

any help of sugestions would be great.

 

thanks, pong

Posted
Off topic i know BUT

How is it that when a kite importer and retailer posted, pimping there kites the board maffia pulled the plug on the post

Yet here we have what appears to be a company pimping for the umteenth time a villa or apartment to let. where is the maffia now. Maybee its just because flexi dont do holidays ?

El Mick

 

This thread was started with a request for kitesurfing locations abroad.

 

The apartment in question is not owned by a company but by a fellow enthusiast looking to rent it out to others when he's not in residence.

Posted

Consider yourself Lucky. My matey is in Boracay Philipenes on instructor course.

Not asmuch wind as he would like.

7 Folks shot dead at local festival.

Missile attack on bar he was in.

Pestered by ladyboys.

Half the Island he is on has burnt to the ground.

 

Sounds fun!!!

Posted

Sounds HAIRY dude......

 

My mate works for the Foreign Office and said its one of the dodgiest countries to go to !

 

Bombs... Kidnapping.... Random Shootings.... SH*****T

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Still Current at: 26 January 2005

Updated: 4 January 2005

 

http://www.fco.gov.uk/Files/kimage/philippi.gif

Philippines

 

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Summary and Terrorism section. The overall level of the advice has not changed.

 

 

 

SUMMARY

 

  • We advise against all travel to central, southern and Western Mindanao, to Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and the Sulu archipelago, where military and police operations against terrorist and rebel groups are continuing and where kidnappings and bombings have taken place.
     

  • There is a high threat from terrorism and kidnapping throughout the Philippines. There continue to be threats against Western interests and there is a danger of collateral damage from terrorist attacks targeted at others.
     

  • The provinces of Quezon, Rizal, Aurora and Nueva Ecija in northern Luzon and Camarines Sur in southern Puzon have suffered widespread damage due to severe flooding following heavy rain in late November 2004. Up to 1000 people are reported to have been killed. Transport and business services in parts of these areas are affected and some roads may be closed while repairs are carried out.
     

  • You should also be alert to the risk of street crime.
     

  • Penalties for illegal drug importation and use are severe and can include the death penalty.
     

  • We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling.

 

 

SAFETY AND SECURITY

 

Terrorism

 

You should be aware of the high threat from domestic and international terrorism (including kidnapping) throughout the Philippines. Extremist groups such as Abu Sayyaf Group and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front operate in the Philippines, and communist insurgents remain active. There continue to be threats against Western interests and there is a danger of being caught up in a terrorist attack.

 

We advise against all travel to central, southern and Western Mindanao, to Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and the Sulu archipelago, where military and police operations against terrorist and rebel groups are continuing and where kidnappings and bombings have taken place. You should take particular care in the rest of Mindanao, Manila, Palawan and at coastal resorts and tourist centres throughout the Philippines (see also Local Travel section). On 12 December, an explosive device went off in General Santos City Market, in Mindanao. Sixteen people were killed and over fifty injured, some critically.

 

There have been regular bombings and kidnappings in the Philippines (81 kidnap cases were reported in 2003, and some happened at sea) primarily in Mindanao, Basilan, the Sulu archipelago and Tawi-Tawi. Manila has also been targeted. A bomb exploded at a sports hall in Parang, in Lanao del Sur province, Central Mindanao, on 4 January 2004, killing 22 people. In April, June and November 2004, grenades were thrown at buildings in Manila's Makati central business district, including offices of a major part-British company, and police defused three explosive devices found in public areas of the capital over the period of 18-21 June 2004.

 

Terrorist groups have threatened to attack passenger ferries and other vessels, particularly those operating from Mindanao. On 27 February 2004, over 100 passengers were killed following a fire on board a Super ferry travelling between Manila and the Central Philippines. The Government confirmed on 11 October 2004, that this was caused by a bomb. A known terrorist group has claimed responsibility

 

In March and April 2003, explosions at Davao City Airport and Davao International Seaport in Mindanao caused between 37-38 deaths. Four suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group arrested in Manila in March 2004 were reported to be in possession of 80lbs of explosives.

 

The Philippine government is working to neutralise the terrorist threat. It has tightened security in Metro Manila and other areas considered at high risk, including airports and seaports.

 

Westerners were deliberately targeted in terrorist attacks in Bali (October 2002) and Jakarta (August 2003 and September 2004).

 

You should be aware of the risk to all forms of public transport: road, rail, sea and air. You should also be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets in public places, including those frequented by foreigners. Please read: Security and General Tips and Risk of Terrorism when Travelling Overseas. We also advise that you check the Embassy website: http://www.fco.gov.uk/Xcelerate/graphics/images/fcomain/home/services/elk.gif Philippines: British Embassy Manila

 

Crime

 

There is a high incidence of street crime and robberies. Sensible precautions might include: arranging to be met at the airport or using hotel transfer services; using a driver or taxis from a reputable source and avoiding displays of cash or jewellery. Even well lit and busy city areas cannot be assumed to be safe. You should beware of strangers offering drinks or confectionery: criminals intent on robbery may lace these to render the victim unconscious.

 

On 9 November 2004, an Italian national was kidnapped in Lanao del Norte, Mindanao. The hostage was freed unharmed on 10 November 2004. A motive has yet to be established.

 

Local Travel

 

We advise against all travel to central, southern and Western Mindanao, to Basilan, Tawi-Tawi and the Sulu archipelago, where military and police operations against terrorist and rebel groups are continuing and where kidnappings and bombings have taken place. Take particular care and maintain high levels of vigilance when travelling to the rest of Mindanao.

 

Include safety measures in all your travel plans. Seek advice from local contacts, avoid travel off the beaten track and always leave travel plans with friends, colleagues or relatives. Safety standards on buses and boats can be low.

 

Sea Safety

 

In addition to the threat from terrorism (see above) there is a high incidence of piracy and armed robbery against ships in and around Philippine waters. Inter-island travel by small boats can also be dangerous as storms appear quickly.

 

You should be aware that maritime rescue services in the Philippines may not be as comprehensive as they might be in the United Kingdom.

 

 

 

LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

 

You should not get involved with drugs of any kind. Possession of even very small quantities can lead to imprisonment or even a death sentence.

 

Philippine law on paedophile activity is severe, and strictly enforced. The death penalty is often passed in child abuse or rape cases. A child is defined in Philippine law as a person under the age of 18. Entrapment may also occur where strangers with children have befriended single male tourists; allegations of abuse are then made in an attempt to extort money.

 

 

 

 

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

 

British nationals may enter the Philippines without a visa for an initial period of 21 days, while a tourist visa from the nearest Philippine Embassy (Filipino representation in the UK) will allow an initial 59 day stay. These periods may be extended, before they expire and for a fee, at the Bureau of Immigration in Manila.

 

Entry to the Philippines may be refused to anyone carrying a passport of less than six months validity or without and onward or return air ticket. Overstaying without the proper authority is a serious matter and can lead to detention pending payment of outstanding fees and fines and voluntary deportation at your own expense.

 

Parents of children travelling unaccompanied to the Philippines must file an "affidavit of support" with the nearest Philippines Embassy or Bureau of Immigration.

 

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some case, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact: Filipino representation in the UK

 

 

 

HEALTH

 

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. Medical treatment in the Philippines can be very expensive.

 

The extent of medical care varies across the Philippines, and may not meet the standards of care in the UK. Although sufficient in major cities, medical care is limited in more remote areas.

 

Malaria, including malarial encephalitis, exists in parts of the Philippines and visitors should seek medical advice before travelling. The dengue fever mosquito is found throughout the Philippines including Manila. Rabies is endemic and can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated quickly.

 

The World Health Organisation (WHO) and UK Department of Health are no longer advising against travel to any destination because of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) concerns. But global surveillance for the disease continues.

 

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)

 

27 People died, 16 in Vietnam and 11 in Thailand, following outbreaks of avian influenza (AI) in parts of Asia earlier this year. There have been recent, renewed outbreaks of avian influenza (bird flu) amongst poultry in Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, China and Cambodia. The Ministry of Public Health in Thailand have confirmed four deaths since September 2004 due to avian influenza in humans. Though the risk of transmission of AI from infected poultry to humans is low, travellers to infected areas are advised to avoid contact with poultry, live animal markets, and poultry farms and places where you may come into contact with live poultry. For further information and up to date figures on the number of cases please check the World Health Organisation (WHO) website at http://www.who.int/csr/don/en/. Information is also available at the Department of Health’s website at DoH: Health Advice To Travellers.

 

You may also wish to consult this website for up-to-date information about vaccinations/prophylaxis needed, alternatively please contact your GP.

 

NATURAL DISASTERS

 

Typhoons strike the Philippines during the rainy season usually between July and November and flooding and landslides may occur. The Philippines is in an earthquake zone. Active volcanoes include Mount Mayon on south east Luzon.

 

 

 

GENERAL

 

English is widely spoken in the Philippines, and most signs are in English.

 

Foreigners are required to show some identity if requested by the police. You are allowed to carry photocopies of the relevant pages of passports. You should store the originals in a safe place to avoid loss or theft. You should leave details of travel plans, passport, credit cards with friends and family in the UK and enter next of kin details into your passport.

 

You should have insurance cover for unexpected losses such as cancelled flights, stolen cash, cards, passport or luggage.

 

If leaving the country through Manila’s international airport you must pay a departure tax in cash of 550 Pesos, approximately £6, which must be paid in local currency.

 

Residents and longer-term visitors should register with the British Embassy and renew this annually to help keep information up-to-date.

 

ATMs are available in Manila and other major cities. Some machines accept major international credit or debit cards. Retail outlets in urban areas usually accept payment by international credit card, though often add a service charge. Banks do not always accept travellers' cheques, but it will help if you can show your receipt of purchase for the cheques. Cash, in Pounds sterling or US dollars, can be exchanged for Philippine pesos in banks, hotels and some retail outlets. Scottish and Northern Ireland bank notes are not generally accepted. Buying foreign currency in the Philippines can be difficult.

 

You should re-confirm domestic flights not less than 72 hours before departure. Check your international airline's policy on re-confirmation when you make your booking.

 

 

 

OTHER

 

Philippines Country Profile

 

 

 

 

CONTACT DETAILS

 

Address:

British Embassy

Floors 15-17, LV Locsin Building

6752 Ayala Avenue, Corner of Makati Avenue

1226 Makati

(PO Box 2927 MCPO)

Manila

 

Telephone:

(63) (2) 816 7116

(63) (2) 816 7271/2 Consular/Visa

(63) (2) 816 7348/9 Consular/Visa

 

Facsimile:

(63) (2) 819 7206 Management

(63) (2) 810 2745 Visa

(63) (2) 815 6233 Commercial

(63) (2) 815 4809 Information

(63) (2) 840 1361 Consular

(63)(2) 813 7755 Chancery

 

Email:

uk@info.com.ph Information Section uktrade@info.com.ph Commercial Section

Office Hours:

Mon-Thur:

0800 - 1630 (local time)

0000 - 0830 (GMT)

 

Fri:

0800 - 1400 (local time)

0000 - 0600 (GMT)

 

Website:

http://www.britishembassy.gov.uk/philippines

 

See Also:

UK Overseas Mission: Philippines

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