Christmas in Spain

Christmas is a deeply religious occasion in Spain. The country's
patron saint is the Virgin Mary and the Christmas season
officially begins on December 8th, the feast of the Immaculate
Conception.

For those of you planning to spend Christmas in Spain, you will
find it is a far less commercialised affair to what you have
become used to in latter years in the UK. Unlike, in the UK
where the build up has already begun, the shops don't actually
start filling up the Christmas stock until December and you
certainly won't find a tree in anybody's house until the second
half of December.

I can understand the urgency to create a festive feeling early
in the UK. Imagine the grimness of winter without the glow of
shop windows, and the exciting countdown to the celebrations.
September to December can be a pretty mundane time of year and
we certainly need those mini festivals such as Halloween and
Bonfire Night to keep us going until Christmas. This year will
be my second Christmas in Spain and I kind of miss doing it the
UK way. However, what I certainly won't miss is that huge
anti-climax feeling that you experience post Christmas as we
endure the drudgery waiting for spring.

The main difference between a Spanish Christmas and the UK
version is the importance of the feast of the Epiphany on the
6th January. This is the day that the Three Kings arrived in
Bethlehem, on horseback. In Spain this is when presents are
given and the three magic kings, not Father Christmas give the
children presents. Parents encourage their children to write to
the Three Kings, in the same way that ours write to Father
Christmas. It is on this day, that people gather in the town's
streets to watch the cavalcades of the Three Kings in all their
glory, throwing sweets for all the children. In recent years
many families have started to give their children their presents
on Christmas Eve because children have to go to school on the
7th January and they don't have time to play with their new toys.

Spanish Christmas is known as Navidad. It is still regarded as a
time to go to church and of course, exchange presents. Christmas
Eve is known as Nochebuena, he Good Night. Families usually
gather around Nativity scenes (a belen) in their own homes. The
meal eaten on Christmas Eve is one of the most important meals
of the year. Seafood is widely eaten and families often hang a
'pata de jamon' in their kitchen and slice off cuts of cold ham
over the Christmas period. You won't be eating mince pies at
Christmas in Spain; here you find cupboards stacked with
Polverones, a cake/biscuit made with almonds, flour, and sugar,
and turron, similar to nougat, made with toasted, sweet almonds.

f you are thinking of spending Christmas in Spain, it is far
less stressful than in the UK as there is hardly any hype, think
UK Christmas in the seventies. However, for children it is
probably not anywhere near as exciting as in the UK. Everything
closes down over Christmas and you don't have the Boxing Day
sales to escape from the house to.

As Spanish television is pretty dire, even for us who can speak
and understand Spanish, my recommendation would be make sure you
have satellite television installed, bring some new DVDs and
some family board games, oh and don't forget the Sainsbury's
mince pies for festive homesickness.

Travel to Unforgetable Paris

My first draft of this article began something like, \here are the top ten things to do and see when you travel to Paris.\ My plan was to show how to plan a cheap travel excursion to Europe in general and France in particular. But three drafts later, I finally realized that the entire City of Paris is a stunning and unforgettable attraction.

Sure, there are a few places you have to see when you go there, or else one of your coworkers will make you feel like a dope because you traveled to Paris and didn\'t see the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower.

But the point is, the entire City of Paris is one of the most beautiful travel destinations on the planet. You can travel to Paris on a budget without sacrificing any of its romance and excitement. Even if you wander off of the well-worn tourist paths, the charm and elegance of the city just seems to seep into your very pores. (Think of it as something like the anti-Detroit.)

Parisians, of course, have a reputation for being just a teensy bit boastful about their city, (\how dare you even speak of [insert your hometown here in the same breath as Paris, you swine! I will spit on your toes.\) But it is hard to argue that their pride is not justified.

But if you insist on knowing my list of top things to do or see in Paris (particularly for travel on a budget), here it is:

--The Louvre was first opened to the public in 1793 after the French Revolution and now houses the most enormous art collection in the world. If you are dead set upon seeing every exhibit, be sure to set aside the most convenient decade of your trip in order to do so.

--The Palace of Versailles, is a fine example of what one man (King Louis XIV) can do with a Home Depot credit and the ability to impose crushing taxes on the French peasants.

--The Eiffel Tower was originally built as an attraction for the 1889 Universal Exhibition. The tower was considered by many Parisians to be an eyesore, but they have since come to terms with it and merely hang sheets over it when visitors come to town. It was the tallest structure in the world until the Empire State Building was completed in 1931. But at least it can claim it has never had a giant ape climb to its top.

--The Seine River. Here is where you can see and do it all without spending a bundle. Spend as much time as you can either walking along its banks or taking boat tours up and down the waterway itself. It is probably the most beguiling river in the world, and you will find almost every building of interest in Paris is on or near the Seine.

--The Parisian cafes. Here again you can take in the sights and experience the essence of romantic Paris without great expense. Particularly visit the cafes in the St. Germain-des-pres district, so you can follow in the steps of Ernest Hemingway, Victor Hugo, Ezra Pound and F. Scott Fitzgerald. You may or may not develop the ability to write as well as these artists, but you be able to brag to your friends when you return home. Assuming of course that your kind of friends know that Hemmingway, Hugo, Pound and Fitgerald were writers and not a law firm.

OK I failed. I have touched only a very few of the highlights of travel to Paris. But when you go, be sure to take your time and stroll through the streets with the eye of a wanderer. Be sure to taste the foods and sample the wines. This is one city that organized walking tours are often worth your time, but you can also take your own walking tour with a guidebook in hand and a heart to behold its beauty.

COPYRIGHT 2005, Charles Brown. All rights reserved.

Think budget travel equals boring travel? Think again! Learn the Guerrilla Traveler\'s insider secrets to budget adventure travel to the world\'s most exciting places and experience the coolest travel adventures without spending a bundle. Charles Brown is a former attorney who now spends his time indulging his passion for travel and shares the unique travel destinations and adventure travel bargains he uncovers on his blog, Guerrilla Traveler - Adventure on a Budget, http://www.guerrillatraveler.blogspot.com

Wyoming: A Great State for Natural Resources

Our nation is mineral rich indeed we have an incredible amount of raw materials right under our feet. We have natural gas, oil, copper, coal, iron and even uranium just to name a few. We are fortunate to have such natural resources and raw materials to support our industrial might. Wyoming along with Alaska lead the nation for having supported our industrial capacity.

If we look at Wyoming with the city of Gillette above ground coal mining, Oil, natural gas, Kitty Litter, metals and the rest once could only say wow; it is mineral rich indeed. It seems obviously with the incredible ancient volcanic activities and upheaval there it has not only incredible landscapes, but lots of minerals have been thrust to the surface, everything from uranium to soda ash.

http://doe.state.wy.us/lmi/0498/0498a2.htm

Wyoming does a great service to our nation in providing the natural resource to our highly industrialized nation;

http://worldthinktank.net/wttbbs/index.php?s=94b969efd93ead1b6b1c70474a0b4868&showtopic=7

The more we get from our own US Soil the less we have to rely on imported raw materials and their costs to transport and lowering these costs mean we can make the products for less money and compete better in the world markets and export meaning we will help our problematic issues with trade deficit out flows. Wyoming understands this and we are all the better for it. We must celebrate our great states, which have brought the United States to where we are today. Without this service every where you look and everything you see would not have been possible and we should consider this as our nation progresses forward looking back at all we are and all we have built. Think on this.

\Lance Winslow\ - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; http://www.WorldThinkTank.net/wttbbs/

A Mystery and a Wonder Called China

Sometimes, they express their worries about their future, saying how difficult it is for them to find jobs. They are still only in grade three and have another year and a half to go before they graduate, but some of their joie de vivre is already buried under furrows of concern. I tell them they belong to the luckiest generation ever to have lived in China and that their future is brighter than their parents, grandparents and, indeed, all other generations before them. They give me an \'unblieving\' look. Some students in Guangdong used to tell me how their grandparents and parents lived through periods of starvation, surviving on less than a bowl of rice a day, and at times, days.

\'Some of my students from a three-year college in Zhanjiang, Guangdong are already employed in jobs that pay them three, four and sometimes, even five thousand a month. And, they don\'t even have degrees. All they have is a diploma. If they can find jobs that pay so well, you all, with university degrees under your belts, are sure to do better,\' I try to reassure them.

\'But, that is in Guangdong!\' some protest.

\'Sure! But, what stops you from finding a job in Guangdong, Zhejiang or even Shanghai,\' I persist.

They fall silent, perhaps, reassured for the moment.

That things have changed, and are continuing to change in China, is no great news. It\'s been happening for some decades now and the effects of the changes are evident everywhere, including some of the less developed regions, like Anhui Province. Anhui is where my university is located and where I, providentially, have been for the last couple of years of my employment as a university teacher.

\'Foreign Expert\' is the title bestowed upon me. I know I am not an expert, nowhere near! In fact, I know very little grammar and sometimes find myself caught on the wrong foot even in class, in the presence of dozens of students. Students in China are usually quiet and disciplined and speak very little in class unless asked to. However, they have an uncanny ability to pick out their teachers\' mistakes and can, sometimes, be extremely forthright about it, especially when it comes to foreign teachers. I doubt, however, they would do that in the presence of their local teachers. \'Face\' is an important concept in Chinese society. There is no greater ignominy in China than to \'lose face\' and therefore, every effort is made to ensure that one doesn\'t lose it oneself or cause another to lose it. Foreign teachers understand little about it and when they do, pay little heed to it, generally. I, shamelessly, admit my failing with regard to grammar and lose face. I, also, don\'t let that come in my way of correcting their mistakes, thus making them lose face and creating some enemies, for sure, albeit silent ones.

I know I am a fool and even four years in China haven\'t made me a lesser fool. \'We live only once,\' I tell myself each time I realize I am a fool, \'better to be a happy fool than an unhappy sage.\'

Many students have the notion that foreign teachers are irresponsible and they are paid unfairly higher wages than their local counterparts. Perhaps, that is one reason why they, sometimes, tend to be scathing in their judgements towards FT\'s. The truth, however, is buried safely away and a myth that was created a long time ago, continues to persist. Many employers and recruiters continue to post job ads, tomtomming how they are offering a salary of 3,000-5,000 to foreign teachers while local teachers are paid in the region of just a thousand. They conveniently ignore the question of hours taught by local teachers vis-a-vis the foreign teachers, how local teachers are paid a salary even while they pursue higher education, earn hefty bonuses, extra money for every class taught in addition to their base salary (this subject is covered in greater detail in another article, \'ESL Teaching in China - Fact and Fiction About Teachers\') and numerous other benefits, including pension.

I have often fought the urge to educate my students on this fact of a foreign teacher\'s life since they \'accuse\' me of being one of the best teachers they have had. I would love to believe them but I know these are compliments reserved for teachers, especially foreign teachers, before grading time. Teachers can alter the destinies of students and most are acutely aware of this. Once a foreign teacher stops teaching a class, most students will forget about him like one would a ball of used, soiled and discarded tissue paper. He can no longer affect their destinies and therefore, doesn\'t even deserve a nod when he passes one by. That hurts!

To be fair, not all students fit this mould, for there are some who continue to keep in touch long after they have ceased being students and are well-settled in jobs that probably earn them better salaries than their erstwhile teachers. However, it still leaves me rather withered when a former student passes by, avoiding eye-contact and pretending not to have noticed me. The first time it happened a few years ago, I remember feeling very offended. Now, I have learnt to pretend I didn\'t notice or recognize the student either. Perhaps, I lose less face thisaway!

Despite all the games played, all the farces enacted and all the pretensions faced, there are things about teaching in China that leave one feeling very warm and welcomed - like the unexpected call from a student from years ago who has gone to great lengths to locate one\'s new telephone number to inform how she has landed a new job that pays \'more than five thousand a month\' and to wish one a \'Happy everyday\'!

China is a mystery that cannot be understood in four years. It is a wonder that cannot be experienced even in ten years. And, if one were to live a lifetime here, one would, perhaps, only realize that it is a mystery and a wonder whose threads cannot be separated even in generations.

In my four years here, the one thing I have learnt about this wonderful country is - that which is, does not show and that which shows, is not!

Rajesh Kanoi (Jack) is a published writer, now living and working in China. Many of his short-stories, poems and articles have been published, including a book of short-stories, \'From China With Love\' (Lipstick Publishing).

http://www.writingup.com/blog/oneinabillion

http://o3.indiatimes.com/kjack/

A Guide to Rocky Mountain Vacations

The legendary Rocky Mountains stretch from New Mexico up through the United States and into Canada. The Rocky Mountains are over 3000 miles long, spanning parts of Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming before continuing into Canada. Stories of early adventurers like Lewis and Clark exploring the Rocky Mountains are legendary.



The majestic Rocky Mountains are a major tourist destination in the western United States. Visitors can participate in a number of activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and many more. The Rockies are home to several campgrounds, ghost towns, gold prospecting sites, and national parks. Some of the biggest tourist attractions in the Rockies are Pike's Peak and Royal Gorge. There are several world famous national parks in the Rockies, including Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain, Grand Teton, and Glacier.



The Rockies are a tourist attraction all year round. The summer months are fairly warm, with the average temperature reaching 82 degrees Fahrenheit. January is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 7 degrees Fahrenheit. The year-round average temperature is a brisk 43 degrees, a perfect temperature for many outdoor activities.



Just about everyone will find something to enjoy on a Rocky Mountain vacation. Aside from all of the great outdoor activities, the Rockies have a number of other attractions as well. The Telluride Film Festival is a prestigious yearly event that attracts some of the biggest stars in Hollywood to a small Colorado town. Many Smoky Mountain resorts offer spa treatments and other relaxing diversions.



There is a plethora of lodging options in the Rocky Mountains. Travelers can camp, visit RV parks, stay in hotels or ski resorts, or lodge in unique cabins and chalets. Vacationers on any type of budget will be able to find an affordable place to stay.



A Rocky Mountain vacation is a perfect getaway from everyday life. Travelers can find a wide range of activities to suit their desires in the Rockies.
Mountain Vacations Info provides detailed information on vacations in the Rocky, Blue Ridge, and Great Smoky Mountains, as well as mountain biking vacations and mountain rental cabins in Colorado, North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and other destinations. Mountain Vacations Info is the sister site of Dude Ranch Web.

Pack for 10 Days in One CarryOn Bag

Successful packing is all about coordinating. Whether you are going on a business trip or for pleasure, stick with a theme. Believe it or not, you should be able to pack for a week to ten days in a carry-on shoulder bag and a 21 expandable suitcase (which could be carried on if you are nervous about checking baggage). Usually when I say this in workshops, I hear groans and snickers about wearing the same outfit everyday. By the end of the workshop everyone is staring at a suitcase packed with a variety of outfits and nothing left behind. So how do you do it?




Here are 5 Keys to Success:

-Follow a monochromatic scheme - black, navy, or neutral. If you are trying to pack all three then you have tripled the amount of accessories and shoes that you need.
-Pack no more than 3 pairs of shoes including the ones you are wearing onto the plane.
-If you have followed our advice in the article Does the label make the clothes? then you already have a base wardrobe with well-coordinated accessories. The same rule applies here - mix and match.
-Wear your heaviest item onto the plane (blazer, sweater, or overcoat). You can always wear it over your shoulders rather than putting it on.
-If you travel often, have a toiletries kit that stays packed with all of the essentials so you can just throw it into the bag. Use containers appropriate to the length of the trip. There is no need to take the 24oz bottle of shampoo.

If you just can't seem to pack in anything less than a 26 suitcase, start out by making a list of everything you think you need, then GET REAL. Make a block table that is divided into categories: Daytime, Nighttime, Accessories, Shoes, Miscellaneous (Non-apparel items) and Departure Day Outfit. If you travel often, I recommend saving a template so you can snap together a suitcase in no time. There are some items that you will need on every trip so why reinvent the wheel each time. When I traveled overseas extensively, I could pack for a trip the hour before I had to leave.

So what do you need for a 10-day business trip? Here are some base lists to get you started.

Daytime:

5 bottom pieces (skirts or pants)
2 blazers
(Substitute 2 suits w/ 3 extra bottom pieces)
6 blouses, tops or shirts (these can be mixed with your weekend wear also)
2 pairs of dress shoes - make sure that at least one can be worn with pants and skirts
Nighttime & Weekend:
2 bottom pieces
3 tops or shirts
1 sweater or jacket if called for by weather
1 pair of casual shoes
1 more elegant outfit if you have a dressier event
Unless the schedule calls for it, I don't recommend packing jeans. They are bulky and may not fit the social setting in which you are entering. Casual pants can be adapted more easily into any setting.

Accessories Remember we said to mix and match. Well you don't want to look like you are wearing the same boring combo every day so change the look of an outfit by re-accessorizing. Accessories don't take up room in your luggage): Men - ties Women - scarves or costume jewelry

Miscellaneous: Make a standard list of everything you need on a trip such as tickets, money, credit cards, cellphone, passport, CD player and headphones, books & magazines, toiletries bag, etc.

Now you are ready for your next trip. If you are flying, have your toiletries kit in your bag under your seat along with items that help you relax (books, CDs etc). Freshen up just before arriving - shave, fix makeup, comb hair, brush teeth etc. Just think how confident you will appear when you arrive off the plane refreshed and not lugging a 50 lb. jumbo suitcase. There will be a bounce in your step as you meet your hosting party. When they ask where your luggage is, you can smile and say ight here. I am ready to go. Then watch their faces as they calculate that you will be wearing the same old clothes every day. During the week observe as each day and night you arrive in a seemingly different ensemble. I promise, you will here tons of comments about how great you look. Bon voyage!






About the author:


Indra A Books, author of this and many other lifestyle articles, is the owner and founder of ON THE GO 4 U, Personal Shoppers & Concierge Service in the Washington DC metropolitan area. The company's creed is to provide its clients with the ultimate life management experience. In addition to its shopping and concierge services, ON THE GO 4 U also publishes a monthly e-zine and conducts workshops on wardrobe, entertaining and decorating. For more information about the author and ON THE GO 4 U, please visit http://www.onthego4u.net

Please click here for more articles about luggage.

Yacht Charters Offer Intimate Voyage Alternative

Sailing the deep, blue waters of an ocean on holiday is a dream come true for many. But, some prefer to do so on a much smaller scale than most cruise ships allow. More rugged and especially private, yacht charter trips are a great alternative for vacationers.

The key to finding a great yacht charter trip, however, is doing some homework. The following are some steps to consider before booking a trip or planning a vacation:

* Destination. This is paramount. If you don\'t know where you want to go, it will be hard to find a charter. Locations where you can find yacht charter trips include Alaska, the Caribbean, Florida, California, Europe. Pretty much anywhere there\'s water, you\'ll find a charter company available.

* Purpose of the trip. Do you simply want to sail away your vacation in a relaxing setting or do some serious sight-seeing and fishing, too? The purpose of the trip will help make it easier for you to find the right charter.

* Overnight stay or not? Are you looking for a two-week charter or a single day out on a fishing boat. This is vital information to have in advance.

* Number of people. A charter boat captain will have a set number of people he or she can allow on board. The number will determine availability of the ship and is vital for booking a trip.

Once you know where you want to go, who you want to bring and what you hope to do, the search for a good charter will become much easier. Look for charter companies in the areas you\'d like to visit and do shop prices and features. It\'s important to know what\'s included in a package and what\'s expected of passengers. Some sailing charters, for example, actually rely on passengers to help with the process of sailing. If working doesn\'t sound fun to you, it\'s a good idea to know the expectations in advance.

Before booking a charter trip, check the following things:

* Prices. Shop them.

* Inclusions. Will you have to pay extra for food? Port of call trips? Fishing gear and lures? Make sure you understand everything that\'s included in the price and what is not.

* What to pack or bring. A charter is not a huge cruise line. The trip may require you to actively get involved in the sailing process. If so, you may want to pack accordingly. Captain\'s attire for a working trip just won\'t do.

* Amenities on the boat. If it\'s a basic boat, stripped down of all life\'s little luxuries, you will want to know this. It may not be the trip for you if a family will be coming along.

* Safety record, years of experience. You want to go on a charter with a captain who knows his or her stuff and the area in which you\'ll be sailing. This is especially so in areas with treacherous waters, but applies anywhere as things can and do happen.

A yacht charter cruise is a great idea for a vacation that\'s a little different than an ordinary cruise. Keep in mind, however, the little extras on a regular cruise are not likely to be present and you may, in fact, find yourself doing a little sailing, too. These are perfect vacations for those who want to get away from it all without doing it with 1,000 other people.

More Resources

Yacht charter trips.

http://www.yachtchartertrip.com

http://www.cruisevacationsinfo.com

Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is an entertainment resort located in Marne la
Valle about 30 kilometers from Paris. This place is one of the
most visited spots of France, not only by children but by adults
as well. Disneyland Paris is a complex resort, which counts with
several different attractions and areas besides the Park itself.

There is a variety of ways to access this area and tourists
always find a convenient one. One of the most efficient ways to
reach Disneyland Paris is by train, due to the fact that there
are several train lines and combinations which go through this
area, coming from several different places of France as well as
from other countries such as Belgium and England. Also, tourists
can opt for going to the Resort by bus or renting a car, both of
them very convenient as well.

Disneyland Paris\' entertainment park started working at
beginnings of 1992 under the name of Euro Disney. During its
opening and its first months of existence, this park did not
have as much success as it was expected to have, but this
started to change at 1994, when its name and some of its
characteristics changed.

Since 1994, the former Euro Disney became Disneyland Paris and
an overall change in the park structure accompanied the new name
as well. Since then, the Park started receiving a much higher
amount of visitors and with them it started becoming more
profitable as well.

Disneyland Paris consists on several areas which turn it into a
very complete and convenient entertainment resort. The main spot
of this resort is its Disneyland Park, which counts on five
different areas based on different themes as well as a central
beautiful castle. Another area within this resort is the Walt
Disney Studios Park, very attractive for adults, as well as the
area of Disney Village which counts with a central shopping
complex. Surrounding these areas, there are several hotels,
known as the Disneyland Resort Hotels, allowing visitors to
choose one which properly suits their needs without having to
travel from another point every day for visiting the Park.

Arizona Vacations are the Perfect Cold Weather Retreat

On a vacation in Arizona, you can enjoy the warmth of this
beautiful desert state.

The 48th state and the last one on the mainland to become part
of the Union, Arizona is a place full of history and culture and
the perfect destination for warm weather sporting pursuits.

The towns and cities here are diverse. From the big-city feel of
Phoenix to the tranquility of Sedona, you\'ll find a variety of
unique places to visit and interesting things to do.

Golfing in Arizona

During the cold, winter months in the Northern and Eastern
United States, thousands of \snowbirds\ flock to Arizona for the
fine golf opportunities here. Just about every town boasts a
course or two, with the largest concentration of courses being
in Scottsdale, Tucson, and Phoenix.

There are so many golf courses in the state that you\'re sure to
find several that fit your level of skill and expertise. Lessons
are offered at most locations and pro shops carry
top-of-the-line clubs and accessories for your use.

If you enjoy watching golf, more than fifty national tournaments
are scheduled somewhere in the state each year, so your Arizona
vacation can certainly include a little spectator time spent
watching the best names in golf.

Sightseeing

One of the most visited attractions in Arizona is, of course,
the Grand Canyon. This majestic site is a must-see for every
American, regardless of age. A visit to the canyon might include
a hike or mule ride into the heart of the canyon, a helicopter
ride over it, a whitewater raft excursion down the Colorado
River, or just some leisure time to enjoy the sights of the
Grand Canyon from the rim.

Throughout the state, you can find amazing American Indian
artifacts and tourist sites. Learn about the history of the
early Apache tribes that settled here, buy some colorful Native
American artifacts, or visit any number of museums that are home
to interpretive and interactive displays about America\'s
earliest residents.

If you\'re into New Age spirituality, you\'ll find a number of
spiritual retreats located in the town of Sedona, as well as
psychics, channelers, and others who delve into the realm of
metaphysics.

Dude Ranches

Want to experience the best of the Wild West? Many Arizona
vacations include a stay at a dude ranch, a real working ranch
where you can join in everyday activities, ride horseback across
the open plains, or join an evening campfire, singing songs and
roasting marshmallows.

Some dude ranches are designed especially for families on
vacation in Arizona while others are meant for grownups only.
Regardless of age, however, you\'ll have a grand time driving
cattle, feeding the horses, or relaxing on your hammock outside
your Wild West-style cabin.

Water Activities

Though Arizona isn\'t on the coast, there are more than enough
lakes to keep you busy on the water. Many choose houseboating on
Lake Powell as their water activity of choice. A fun alternative
to a conventional hotel or condo stay, thousands visit the lake
each year for this unique Arizona vacation opportunity.

Lake Havasu is another favorite destination for those that enjoy
active watersports like jet and water skiing, fishing, and
kayaking.

The wild rivers of Arizona offer many opportunities to
participate in whitewater rafting and kayaking, with Class IV
and V rapids guaranteed to excite even the most experienced
whitewater fanatic.

Where to Go

Arizona boasts many exciting destinations so you may have to
choose one or two to enjoy on your Arizona vacation. Investigate
each town and find the activities and sights that most interest
you. If you have two weeks or more for your vacation in Arizona,
rent a car and explore the entire state!

Have a Home Base with a Vacation Rental or Holiday Home

The number of families taking vacations is on the rise along
with the need for something different. Some families want ski
vacations while others might want to go to the beach or a
popular tourist attraction. Regardless of the destination,
impersonal hotel rooms are being ditched for vacation rentals
and holiday homes.

Vacation
rentals and holiday homes are a great alternative for those
who wish to have more privacy and space to maneuver, something
that hotels don\'t really have. Staying in a hotel involves
tipping porters and valets; there is the added expense of dining
out daily. Plus, if staying at a hotel for several days, it can
be a bit tedious to stare at the same four walls and share a
room with family members without a modicum of privacy. Just like
there are hotels everywhere, there are vacation rentals and
holiday homes all over the world ready to be booked.

The secret to a great vacation is having a \home base\ and
vacation rentals or holiday homes provide that service to
travelers. Among the many other advantages to booking vacation
rentals or holiday homes are:

1. More bang for the buck - Incorporated in a hotel room fee is
the overhead for running the place, allowances for tips and even
marketing costs. When booking vacation rentals or holiday homes,
the price does not factor in for those big ticket luxuries that
hotels have. If there are multiple people sharing a vacation
rental, the cost per person is a lot less than it would be in a
hotel.

2. Privacy and space - When traveling with families or groups,
space and privacy is essential for maintaining the peace. With
vacation rentals and holiday homes, family members could have
separate rooms. There is also little worry about being too loud
for the neighbors down the hallway.

3. Kitchen privileges - Vacations can be expensive and one of
the major culprits is food. Dining out for every meal can not
only be costly, but also boring. With vacation rentals and
holiday homes, there are kitchens with cookware and appliances
... all the comforts of home. Keeping some breakfast items,
snacks and other foods on hand can save big bucks while still
having the option of traveling to local area restaurants.

4. Convenience of coming and going - Vacation rentals and
holiday homes offer travelers the flexibility in schedules as
well as take care of the problems with hotel parking and
security issues if late night excursions are part of the
vacation plan.

5. Variety in vacation venues - A country cabin, a villa by the
lake or a condo overlooking the ocean ... variety in lodging is
readily available. Swimming pools, game rooms, gourmet kitchens,
easy walks to the beach - these amenities are just a few of the
things requested when travelers book vacation rentals or holiday
homes.

Vacation rentals and holiday homes provide vacationers something
different from hotels - a home base in which to travel back and
forth to various tourist destinations. Personality and
comfortable surroundings are also big selling points with
vacation rentals and holiday homes over hotels. The biggest
decision however is this: where is the vacation going to be?

Relax and Travel to Spain it has Much to Offer

Spain is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe with a great mix of beaches, history and a friendly welcome from the locals. Major international airports such as Barcelona, Madrid and Malaga are now very busy with cheap flights available from around the world.

Alternatively you could always drive through the South of France or even jump on a ferry from England to Spain visiting the famous port of Bilbao.

There are many attractions for those wishing to Travel to Spain including the fantastic beaches along the Costa coasts, the rich history of cities such as Barcelona and the charming small villages throughout Spain offering local food.

Spain is only a few hours flight from most European countries and now has adopted the Euro as it\'s currency. Famous for cheap bargains with the old peseta currency it is now the opinion of many that the introduction of the Euro has increased prices throughout Spain.

However you can still pick up fantastic bargains at the local market in such places as Benidorm where the tradition of haggling is still strong ! You can also pick up good deals at the \ duty free \ airport lounges where cigarettes, perfume and alcohol are the most popular buys.

When you travel to Spain don\'t forget the charming islands just off the coast of Spain. These include Majorca where you can visit the famous Palma Cathedral and even mingle with the famous who dock their boats at Palma Bay.

If you fancy a trip to the Canary Islands you will also visit the island of Tenerife where you could climb Mount Tiede or visit the golden dunes in Gran Canaria.

Spain has much to offer and continues to thrive as a tourist destination and indeed many who travel to Spain are now buying property and living the \ Spanish dream \ enjoying a siesta and the midday sun !

Walter Patrick offers a directory of Spanish related websites at Travel to Spain.

http://www.qwspain.com

Mount Chimborazo: Climbing Glaciers Near The Equator

The climb up the glaciers to the summit of Mount Chimborazo
in Ecuador isn't considered highly technical. Technically,
it is mountaineering, but how hard could it be,
considering that I went to 20,600 feet the first time I used
crampons and an ice axe? Okay, I had used them once for
practice, on a sledding hill near my house. I climbed almost
forty feet while people walked by with their sleds, warning
their kids to stay away from me.



Driving Up Mount Chimborazo

It is easier to climb a mountain when the guide drives you
to 15,000 feet. Don't get me wrong. Climbing that last 5,600
feet was one of the most difficult things I've done, but not
for the skill required. The fact that the air was missing
half of its oxygen is what had me quitting twenty or thirty
times on the way up Chimborazo. It just gets difficult to
move up there.



The Graveyard

The little monuments near the first refuge weren't for
climbers without skill. The graveyard is a testament to the
unpredictability of all high places. Chimborazo is very
high, it randomly drops large rocks on you, and has weather
that changes by the minute. Even as we were hiking to the
second refuge, we could hear the rocks and pieces of ice
falling somewhere above.



El Refugio Edward Whymper is a simple, unheated hut at
16,000 feet, named after the English climber who first made
it to the summit of the mountain. Okay, it isn't entirely
unheated. There is a fireplace, and when somebody feels like
carrying wood up to 5000 meters, the fire might raise the
temperature in the hut by 3 degrees.



We had mate de coca a tea made of coca leaves, which are
also known for another product made from them--one that is
taken up the nose. Then we went hiking for a short while.
That was my acclimatization. We ate, and I slept for at
least an hour before starting the ascent at eleven that
night.



A Little About Mount Chimborazo

Chimborazo is in Ecuador, not far from the Equator (100
miles south). The elevation in the center of the country,
and the moderating effect of the Humboldt Current, which
runs along the west side of South America, gives the country
near perfect weather. A bit hot along the coast and
lowlands, but spring--like in Quito (the capital) , with
daily highs in the sixties to low seventies year--round.
Wonderful weather almost everywhere--until you get high
enough.



Chimborazo, at it's peak, is the furthest point from the
center of the Earth. Our planet bulges at the equator,
making Mount Chimborazo even futher out there than Everest.
It has the distinction of being the closest point to the sun
on the planet, and yet still the coldest place in
Ecuador.



Climbing Chimborazo

Paco, my guide, didn't like the lightweight part of this
mountain climbing adventure. He frowned when he saw my
sleeping bag, which packed up smaller than a football, and
weighed a pound. My frameless backpack didn't seem to
impress him either (13 ounces). In any case, although it did
get below freezing in the hut, just as he said it would, I
stayed warm--as I said I would. No problems so far.



Unfortunately, Paco didn't speak a word of English, and I
was just learning Spanish. Since our whole group consisted
of him and me, we did have some communication problems. I
thought, for example, that the $11 fee for the ight (a
few hours) in the hut was included in the $130 guide fee. He
thought that I was a mountain climber.



I think he was saying that he didn't like the papery
rainsuit I was using as a shell, and he frowned at my
homemade 1--ounce ski mask. When he saw me putting on my
insulating vest, a feathery piece of poly batting with a
hole cut in it for my head...well, I just pretended not to
understand what he was saying.



I hadn't intended to go climb up Mount Chimborazo with such
lightweight gear, but I had come to Ecuador on a courier
flight, and could bring only carry-on luggage. Since I had
only 12 pounds in the pack to begin with, by the time I put
on all my clothes that night, the weight on my back was
irrelevant. The weight of my body, however, wasn't
irrelevant. Paco had to coax me up that mountain.



Hiking On Glaciers

The glaciers start a short walk from the hut, and hiking
soon became mountaineering. I put on crampons for the second
time in my life (there was that sledding hill). During one
of my many breaks (Demasiado - too many, which I pretended
not to understand when Paco explained in Spanish), I noticed
that the tiny, cheap thermometer I carried had bottomed out
at 5 degrees fahrenheit. I wasn't cold, but I was exhausted
at times--the times when I moved. When I sat still I felt
like I could run right up that mountain.



We struggled (okay, I struggled) up Mount Chimborazo,
hiking, climbing, jumping over crevasses, until I finally
quit at 20,000 feet. Of course I had quit at 19,000 feet,
and at 18,000 feet. Quitting had become my routine. Lying
had become Paco's, so he told me straight--faced that the
summit was just fifty feet higher. Maybe I wanted to believe
him, or maybe the lack of oxygen had scrambled my brain. In
any case, I started up the ice again.



On Top Of Mount Chimborazo

We stumbled onto the summit at dawn. Well, okay, I stumbled.
Paco, who seemed somewhat frail down at the refuge, was in
his element at 20,600 feet. Dirtbag Joe, the
nineteen-year-old kid from California with ten dollars in
his pocket, borrowed equipment, and my Ramen noodles in his
stomach, was waiting for us with a smile.



The sky was a stunning shade of blue that you actually can
never see at lower elevations. Cotapaxi, a classic
snow-covered volcano to the north, was clearly visible 70 or
80 miles away. Handshakes all around, and it was time to get
off the mountain. I was told you don't want to be on Mount
Chimborazo when she wakes up. She wakes up at nine a.m.



Paco kept looking at his watch and frowning. He told me to
hurry, then he got further and further ahead. I thought he
was going to abandon me on the mountain. When I finally
caught up to him at the hut at nine a.m., I began to hear
the rocks fall out of the ice above as the sun warmed it.
Now I understood his concern with time. We really did need
to get down to the refuge by nine. A thousand feet lower and
my mountain climbing adventure ended with a photograph that
mercifully doesn't show my shaking knees.



NOTES:

If you want to climb Mount Chimborazo, it is cheapest to
wait until you get to Ecuador to make arrangements. Talk to
almost any hotel owner or manager in Riobamba, and he or she
will find a guide for you. It will be cheaper if you are
part of a group, of course.



For more information and stories about Ecuador, you can
visit the pages, Information On Ecuador, and Banos
Ecuador on the website
http://www.EverythingAboutTravel.com

About the Author

Steve Gillman hitchhiked across the U.S. and Mexico at 17.
Now 40, he travels with his wife Ana, who he met in Ecuador.
His stories, tips and information on travel and backpacking,
can be found on his websites,
http://www.EverythingAboutTravel.com, and http://www.TheUltralightBackpackingSite.com

Retirees From The United States Find A New Home At Rosarito Beaches In Mexico

Many Americans just starting or already in their retirement years have come to the conclusion that if they want to spend the golden years of their lives in a positively different, more relaxed environment compared to that of the U.S., and where, at the same time, they can have a good life without breaking the bank, they should seriously consider moving to Mexico.

Recently it has transcended in the news that hundreds of Americans are moving to the famous Rosarito Beaches area in the state of Baja California. It is paradoxical that as thousands of poor Mexicans are trying to get across the border northbound looking for a job; these many Americans cross the border southbound looking for an affordable house or apartment where to spend their retirement years. Of course the most looked after places in Rosarito are those with a good view to the beach, complementing the advantage of being close enough to the hospital and medical services of San Diego, in the U.S.

Baja California\'s Tourism and Conventions Committee chairman has commented; \For them the beach in Rosarito is very attractive because it\'s the same as in California, and the costs for a home here are very attractive. They are also attracted by the fact that they are in a different country but still near their home places and close to medical and other services in their country\.

Rosarito is only 40 minutes from the Tijuana border crossing point and is located in a section of the 112 km of beach that extends from Tijuana to Ensenada. According to the specialists, properties here can cost 10 times less than in the United States. This is so attractive for many Americans that the number of real estate projects has passed from 1 to 120 in the last 5 years according to the Real Estate Association President of Rosarito Beaches. He also indicated that it has been forecasted that during 2006 investments in real estate will reach 2500 million dollars, three times the figure reported in 2005.

It is interesting to know that daily, in average, there are 8 Americans retirees that are looking for a place to live in the Rosarito area, this without considering the Europeans and Chinese that also have began to consider spending their retirement years in the area.

The message is clear, those expecting to retire in the coming years should be considering Rosarito Beaches as one of their main options, everything indicates they will not regret it.

If you are thinking about retiring in Mexico or just want to learn more about all the great things you can find in this beautiful country, you should visit this great resource:

=> http://travel-mexico-review.blogspot.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=O.Casas

Have A Great Adventure With Our Luxury Cruises

What is luxury + adventure? The answer is a cruise. It\'s a
paradise on water. You literally get to see the best of things
on earth at a very nominal cost. Different people have different
ways of enjoying life. Some like to just chill out while others
like to take things on their own and what better way to do it
than hopping on board these cruisers. You name it, you have it
kind of fun available on board.

Food , fun and frolic are a major part of cruise vacations. You
might just get bored of relaxing. There is no dearth in
entertainment. That\'s why millions of people just dream about
these cruises.

As said earlier, your way f enjoyment must be decided by you.
You have a multitude of options available. Just sit back and
enjoy on board. Or try rock climbing, explore the depths of the
pyramids or the good old ocean. Go to Antarctica or the
Galapagos Islands, Egypt or Alaska; there is no limit to the
locations you can journey to. Extreme adventures not advised for
ones with poor health, but that should not deter you from
enjoying the rest. The enchanting locales just give you a breath
of freshness.

If you are a bit too lazy to take a stroll, you can sit back on
board and watch remote places pass by you and they have a range
of options for you. Seeing a brown bear at close range or other
wildlife can all be done from the comfort and safety of the
boat, while you sip a drink and sit by the pool. This is
probably more suited for people adventurous at heart, but that
hold indulgence at a high level also. A lot of people take this
as an opportunity to just chill out.

One thing for sure, you just will not go home empty handed. You
will have loads of memories and unfinished business that you
will just get back sooner or later.

Why You Should Sail Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines

A cruise is considered the ultimate in luxury vacations. For
many people, the idea of sailing on a ship to a wonderful and
exotic destination is their perfect vacation. Cruise lines offer
a variety of cruises for the average consumer. Royal Caribbean
Cruise Lines is one of many cruise lines that offer great
vacations and lots of options. Their reputation is very good and
the amenities onboard the ships are first-rate.

With a name like Royal Caribbean, you might think that this
cruise line sails only to the Caribbean. This could not be
further from the truth. Royal Caribbean cruises to many
different locations. They sail to Alaska, Bermuda, the Bahamas,
the Caribbean, Canada and New England, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico,
the Pacific Northwest, the Panama Canal, and transatlantic
cruises, as well. They also have some great cruise tours that
consist of an escorted land tour that occurs either before or
after your cruise. The escorted land tour is done by deluxe
motor coach or train, and is a great option for those wanting to
see more of the country to which they have traveled.

Cruises are actually very budget-friendly. This is because
nearly everything onboard the ship is included in the price of
the cruise. The accommodations, all meals, snacks activities,
entertainment and even 24-hour room service are all part of the
package. For those that want to save money, they can book an
inside room and choose one of the less expensive meal plans.
This does not mean that their food will be inferior, however.
Cruises price themselves on providing sumptuous gourmet meals to
all their customers. They also give you guidelines for
gratuities so that you know how much to tip the various staff
members that serve you during your cruise.

The things that are not included in the package price are things
like alcoholic beverages, shore excursions, phone calls, and
both onboard and off-board purchases. These are things that a
person needs to plan to have extra money for. Even then, the
shore excursions can be booked in advance to get a better price
and to make sure that the consumer gets the shore excursions
they want, as the good ones fill up quickly.

Booking a cruise is also simple. It can be done online through
one of the many travel sites, or it can be done at the official
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line site. A travel agent can also be
another alternative, and sometimes they are able to get very
good cruise deals for their customers. Even if you decide to go
on a cruise at the last minute, there are often cheap deals and
amazing specials designed to fill up empty spaces on the ship.
So whether a person decides to book early or book late, great
deals on cruises to a variety of locations are always available.

The Merchant Navy and the Internet

A web site dedicated to the writings of the sea, ships and all those that sail on them? It sounds strange as who knows what the Merchant Navy is or what those at sea actually do all day, those who work in the Industry that is. Isn't the Merchant Navy something to do with fishing or fighting? What is interesting about that? Get a real job, some would say and others would ask and so why haven't you got a sun tan. So why would anybody be interested in a web site filled with things that nobody is interested in - beats me.

If one would look through the endless Marine and Nautical webs sites available or if one was to go to a bookshop and look at the available literature on the subject this is what you might find. Ten books on the Titanic, dozens of how to sail around the world in a plastic boat with a sail DIY books and a couple on when I was shipwrecked or and attacked by pirates biographies. This is all good stuff and I must admit to do with the sea and ships, but oh so very long ago! The Merchant Navy of today is not about sails and pirates, it is not about sinking ships and unqualified people sailing the world for adventure, it is not about scurvy and cannibals in foreign lands and it is definitely not about fishing and catching the nearest ferry to France!

Merchant Navy really started to be recognized as early as the Fifteenth Century. This was when hard men in little boats, battled the oceans in the name of exploration. Yes, dear, I will be back in ten years or so, be good, would be heard throughout the land. From these times the Merchant Fleet grew into the heart of the British Empire, bringing back all that Tea from China, the spices from the Orient, the fruits from Morocco and the gold from everywhere. Sailing ships became the heart of the spider web that connected Britain to its colonies and outlying Islands. Heroic men set forth to bring back to the British people news and exotic goods that had become so much in demand.

Last Century sailing ships became steam ships and steam ships became fuel oil burning ships. Britain became in the middle of the last century the largest shipbuilder in the world with well over 70% of the ships being built in places like Newcastle, on the Clyde, in London and other famous Maritime Ports and Harbors of the UK. Britain also had the largest Maritime Fleet in the world and dominated Trade everywhere with its powerful supply of home built ships and rufty tufty seafarers. Yes, not long ago Britain was dependent on a massive fleet of ships importing and exporting goods and keeping the Empire together. During these times families all knew what the Merchant Navy was either through having family members at sea or through working in the support Industries of Shipbuilding, Insurance, Imports/Exports, Dockyards, Stevedores amongst many other occupations in the Maritime World!

Times change though! Thirty or so years ago the British Merchant Fleet size started to drop and the shipbuilding Industry started to wither away. Countries like Japan and Korea started building ships using cheaper labor and the cost of building a ship in the UK became prohibitive. Shipyards closed and workers were laid off in their thousands and these workers drifted into other occupations if they could or joined the long queues at the unemployment center. The fleet size reduced in their hundreds as companies either moved their ships to other flags (different countries for cheaper tax incentives) or sold off their fleets to foreign companies. The remaining British ships and the foreign ships sold laid off seafarers by the thousands and employed in their place cheaper crews from such places as India and China.

The British Merchant Navy dropped in size at such a rapid pace that it went from world dominance to nothing in a matter of a couple of years. The significance of the Merchant Fleet in the eyes of the public disappeared overnight and became an unknown quantity to the outside world.

Today things are improving. Recent Tax incentives by the British Government have caused a turn around and certain shipping companies have started to increase their fleet size under the British Flag and other companies have switched their ships operate in the UK. London as the center of Maritime Affairs managed to retain the title of Marine Capital of the World throughout the troubled times and still to this day stands proud above all that represents the Marine Industry.

London with its hundreds of Marine Insurance Firms, Brokerage Companies, Lawyers, Import/Export Houses and Ship Business and Consultants (amongst many other support arenas) brings in over one billion pounds per annum to the UK economy? That is London alone and does not include all the other companies and offices situated around the Islands. Furthermore, it also makes no recognition for the 60,000 British seafarers that are still out there plying there trade across the many oceans, nor for the Nautical Schools that still operate in Glasgow, Southampton and Newcastle to name only the major ones. It also does not include those fleets that are registered and operated out of British territories, like Gibraltar and it certainly does not take into account those seafarers that work in the Merchant Navy but don't subscribe to a Union.

In basic terms the Merchant Navy could be described as any commercially operated waterborne vessel. So any vessel that makes money is a part of the Merchant Fleet. This would include for example: Research Vessels, Ferries, Fishing Boats, Oil Tankers, Passenger Ships, Chemical Tankers, Training Vessels, Hospital Ships, Diving Support Vessels, Anchor Handlers and Tugs to name but a few! It could though be said that the Merchant Navy is anything on the water that is not used to fight with. Or anything on the water that does not have a gun! But there is a crossover point and it is easier to use the Commercial explanation above and to include any 'pleasure craft' into the statement.

Merchant Vessels go with Imports and Exports. Trade being their primary purpose and 95% of cargoes shipped around the world is by Merchant Vessels. Not, may I say by aircraft which is often a preconception that those ashore seem to have. Cargo planes carry either very small items, or very expensive items that are needed in a hurry. A plane could not carry Oil around the world and it certainly could not carry toxic and dangerous Chemicals. Fruit is carried in ships as are vegetables and grain to name but a few! Ships carry cargo; planes carry valuable items and cost too much for general items to become viable economically. If oranges where brought in by plane they would cost well over five pounds each at a minimum, I leave that subject to rest in peace!

At home in the UK have a look around your house and think about where the items you see come from! That television in the corner, does it have Sony written on it? The Persian Carpet that decorates your sitting room I am sure was not made in the UK. The children's toys with made in Taiwan, certainly do not come from a UK factory and the tea you are drinking most likely comes from India! What about the Japanese car in the garage and the rice in the bucket in the kitchen? If you were then to go a bit further and look at the wood supporting your roof you may find that it was shipped in from Finland. The gas that heats your water is shipped in from North Sea Oil Wells or from Africa and the fancy gravel that adorns your path came from Spain or France. And by no means, were any of these goods or items shipped in to Britain by an airplane! Ships brought all of these goods to your supermarket shelves, for you to enjoy in your home!

As seafarers are not fighting (which seems a common misconception) and we don't play cards all day let us clearly state that the average seafarer suffers from overwork and stress. Stress built up over the time he spends on the ship due to the high volume of work and the responsibility that is placed on his shoulders. I will leave it at that. It would take a whole volume to describe the jobs and routines that seafarers in their respective ranks are responsible for and I suggest that you read alternative literature (if you can find any) or join up! Seafarers in short have too much to do at sea and suffer as a result of it!

The Merchant Navy today is improving in stature and in size in the UK. Slowly and with time it may grow once again to be a recognizable force and understood and respected by the general population. Long gone have the times when a Captain was a respected figure in the community but maybe he will one day be able to lift his head high a not hide under the lie of being a travelling salesman. One day Marine Engineers will be come respected as extremely qualified experts and not classified on the same level as a car mechanic straight out of school. Maybe one day everybody will realize that being at sea does not mean a wife in every port and that often nowadays seafarers no longer manage to leave the ship in their time onboard. Maybe one day seafarers will be able to go ashore and tell people what they do without having a blank response or a daft reply like oh, erm you fish?, or hat's good, you do a good job protecting out shores.

The reason for setting up a web site for the written word of the sea may now be a bit more logical to the landlubber. There is in fact a whole world out there that remains unknown to all. An extremely diverse and interesting world filled with cultural shock and intrigue and through the web site it is hoped that all readers will gain massive insight and knowledge into this world. The Merchant Navy and those that sail on the ship deserve far more recognition and respect than they get to date. So maybe through this web site all will change and soon Officers and Crews of the many Vessels that ply their trades will be able to lift their heads high and shout we are in the Merchant Navy. And all those that hear will understand and respect those persons that are part of what was once the greatest Industry that Britain can lay claim to.

About The Author

Author and Webmaster of Seamania. As a Chief Engineer in the Merchant Navy he has sailed the world for fifteen years. Now living in Taiwan he writes about cultures across the globe and life as he sees it.

The Cruising Life: $afety $tuff $ucks

I feel a rant coming on. This is one of those things that makes me pound my fists and drum my heels, but that I have no choice about. Which makes it even more frustrating.

I was immersed in the subject of cruising gear while writing my third booklet in the Take Her Sailing Cruising Series. I had just finished writing about life rafts, man/crew overboard systems, and EPIRBs, all the while reflecting on how expensive it is to fit out with stuff you hope you\'ll never use. As if telepathic, Skip picked this time to tell me it is time to get the life raft repacked.

Dang! I hate dealing with a life raft repack. It means spending a minimum of $500 for someone to test the raft, plus whatever it will cost to replenish outdated flares and such. AND, if the raft doesn\'t pass minimum requirements, it will be unceremoniously scrapped, we will still owe the money, and we will be faced with having to purchase another raft. Ugh.

Still, it has to be done. We are about to take the boat out onto the Gulf of Mexico, traveling from Tarpon Springs (Florida) to Fort Walton Beach (same state), and though I might be willing to venture out without a repacked raft, Skip is not. This is not a subject to argue about-if he wants to be certain that we have a working raft, I need to respect that. The issue of safety is as much psychological as physical, and if a member of the crew feels strongly about including certain features, I don\'t think it\'s good idea to enter into debate about it.

But the repacking issue always fans my internal fires over safety gear. Every time I have fitted out a cruising boat, I get into a stew about what I tend to think of as a very expensive life insurance policy. Actually, safety gear aboard a cruising boat is more like car safety features than insurance. I mean, passenger air bags and safety belts improve one\'s chances of survival rather than guarantee it. Same with comparable boat safety stuff.

Except boats aren\'t like cars. They don\'t automatically come equipped with safety gear, and the cost of adding appropriate gear ranges from, say, a couple of hundred dollars for life jackets, sufficient flares, and a horseshoe buoy to several thousands of dollars for raft, bluewater crew overboard system, EPIRB, personal flotation vests fitted with strobes, and so on. I know that it\'s money that needs to be spent, but it makes me upset. On the one hand, how much safety gear is enough, and how much will it really stack the deck in favor of survival? On the other hand, every time I think about not including appropriate (and expensive) safety gear on a boat, I think about how terrible it would be to need the stuff and not have it. And therein lies my conflict, which causes the drumming of heels and pounding of fists.

Wouldn\'t it be cool if safety gear actually DID come built in to a boat the way it does in a car? A life raft that automatically deploys the same way an airbag does in a car, a jackline system built in to the boat body, an EPIRB as part of the standard equipment. It still wouldn\'t avoid the periodic expense of update and maintenance, but at least the initial buy/not buy decision would be taken care of. Oh, okay, before you start pelting me with emails about the impracticality of this idea, let me dream about it for a little while!

Actually, that makes me wonder: If cars were the same as boats vis--vis safety gear, would I spend the money to add air bags, extra structural features in the body, and safety belts? Hmmmm......good question!

Well, here\'s hoping the raft passes inspection (cha ching goes the sound of the cash register).

Trish Lambert has been a cruising sailor for over twenty years and a first mate three times, with three different skippers and three very different cruising styles. She knows first hand what makes cruising successful, and what she has to share may surprise you! Whether you are a skipper or first mate, a singlehander or part of a cruising couple, sail boater or power boater, Trish can help make your cruising dream a reality. Check out her site at http://www.takehersailing.com for a wealth of cruising information.

Best Time to go to Disney World

When deciding on the best time for you and your family to visit Disney World, the main issue is usually the crowds. When visiting any major theme park, you are going to experience large crowds; And since Disney World is the most popular theme park in the world, there is hardly a day at the park without large crowds. If you do your research, you can find certain times of the year, January and September for example, that are less busy at Disney World. Even though you may enjoy shorter lines during these times, there are downsides to going at these less busy times of the year. For one, Disney has more festivities planned during certain times of the year like Christmas and New Years. For many people, it is worth fighting the crowds to be at Disney World during these times of major festivities.



Crowds are not the only factor when deciding on the best time to visit Disney World. It is also a good idea to take the weather into account. Many people assume that any time of the year is perfect weather in Florida but that is definitely not the case. The summer time can bring extreme heat and severe thunderstorms to the Orlando area that can ruin your day at Disney World. The brief showers are usually a great time to go inside and take a break. Some of the best weather at Disney World comes in the evening with mild temperatures so make sure to rest up during the day so you're ready to go out at night.



Other tips to keep in mind when planning a trip to Disney World:



- If you are ok with taking your kids out of school for a trip, do it! Any time other kids are at school is a great time to go to Disney World because you can expect smaller crowds and shorter lines



- Keep a close eye on park opening and closing times so you can take advantage of late nights and early starts



- Two weeks after the Thanksgiving holiday is a great time to go to Disney World because the crowds are minimal and the Christmas decorations are already up.



So when is the best time to go to Disney World? When it's called the happiest place on Earth, every day of the year is the best time to go.

Article Source: http://www.articledashboard.com

Ryan Bowman is the webmaster for www.world-of-disney.com, your portal for everything Disney on the internet. Going to Disney World? Find the best time to visit at www.world-of-disney.com/best-time-to-visit-disney-world.htm

White Rock British Columbia

White Rock together with South Surrey, the southern part of the City of Surrey, is located on the Semiahmoo Peninsula overlooking Semiahmoo Bay and surrounds the quaint seaside City on three sides.

White Rock offers a destination for all to enjoy. Just south of Vancouver and only five minutes north of the US - Canada border, it is distinguished for its quaint B&Bs, galleries, boutiques and fine waterfront dining with spectacular sunsets over the Georgia Strait.

The City of Vancouver is a 30 to 60 minute freeway drive north. The Canada - US Border is 5 minutes away to the south, with 2 crossings to choose from Pacific, at BC Hwy 15 and Douglas at BC hwy 99. Both crossings are located in Blaine, WA and are accessible from US I-5. Blaine is approximately 1.5 hours north of the Greater Seattle area. The Vancouver International Airport is only 20 minutes away.

The sun smiles on the Semiahmoo Peninsula more hours than most other Southern Coastal Communities. The average temperature during the summer months is 23 degrees Celsius (76 degrees Fahrenheit) and 6 degrees Celsius (42 F) during the winter months. The fairest month is July with only 40 mm (1.6\) of rain on average.

This makes the White Rock area the perfect place to enjoy swimming, golfing, kayaking, sailing, whale watching, biking, hiking or even just strolling. It\'s also home to tennis courts, lawn bowling, 2 ice arenas, many golf courses and the famous International Women\'s Fast Pitch Tournament.

While in the White Rock area you should experience the many lush nature trails and parks. Serpentine Fen, a bird sanctuary, as well as Crescent Beach are two great areas to see over 200 species of birds on their migration. There is the Historical Stewart Farmhouse, a turn of the century museum, \Blackie Spit\ and \1000 Steps\ are other must see attractions that give you a rustic feel.

Stretching 1,559 feet into the ocean is the White Rock pier. It was first constructed in 1915 and officially re-opened in 1977. For a pleasant stroll along the wooden planked pier and watch the crab fisherman of all ages try their luck. You can also visit the great white boulder for which the city is named. Native legends claim the son of a sea god tossed this 486.63-ton magical rock across the seas to prove his strength and it was later used as a navigational beacon.

The Promenade along White Rock\'s famous sandy beach is always a pleasant place to stroll and visit. Approximately 2.19 Km (1.36 miles) of level, paved walkway, every inch with a spectacular Ocean Vista which can extend as far as the Cascade Mountains in Washington State. A sweeping view of the Canadian Gulf Islands and southern Vancouver Island across the Georgia Strait is a common reason that some folks stroll the entire length each day. Head out one way along the water and meander back along Marine Drive window shopping or stopping for coffee in one of the many shops, restaurants and cafes.

Marine Drive follows The Promenade through White Rock. With the ocean view on one side, the other side of the Drive meanders through a busy section of the downtown with shops, galleries, restaurants and sidewalk cafes, all with oceanfront views. There are numerous B&B\'s in this area that also face the ocean. An ample selection of hotels and motels can be found farther south between White Rock and the US border.

White Rock and the surrounding areas offer some of the finest residential neighborhoods in the Greater Vancouver area, including the growing Morgan Creek area surrounding the Morgan Creek Golf Course (one of fifteen Golf Courses in the area). The Lifestyle is decidedly upmarket and real estate prices tend to be higher than other areas of Surrey and other suburban parts of Greater Vancouver. It is within a reasonable distance to commute to Downtown Vancouver and has become a popular area for corporate executives with offices in Vancouver, Richmond and Burnaby. It is far enough away from the dense urban areas, yet close enough to be central to major corporate centers and still offer all the social and entertainment opportunities of a major North American venue.

So, too, is it an excellent place to retire. The year-round mild climate has made White Rock and the Semiahmoo Peninsula the choice for many senior Canadians. The City of White Rock, with its spectacular ocean views and the City of Surrey with quality new developments offer many condominium home opportunities geared to the older generation who don\'t want to spend their time maintaining a house.

If you are looking to build your dream home, you will find that White Rock offers some of the highest quality builders in the Greater Vancouver district. There are many building lots available, ranging in size from a typical \city\ lot to multi-acre estates or hobby farms. White Rock\'s quiet, safe neighborhoods will surely offer you the home you have been searching for, whether its an ocean view no-hassle condominium, a large treed lot to raise your family, or anything in between.

White Rock has something to offer everyone with shopping, recreational facilities, just ambling along the ocean front Promenade and fine dining. Whether for the day or for much longer, it\'s an excellent destination whether for the busy vacationer or for the weary traveler.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Canada Vacation

Find Many Cruise Deals That Suit Your Personal Style And Needs!

Finding Cruise Deals are half the battle when considering a cruise vacation! In order to maximize the value of your cruise, it\'s a good idea to do some research and find out what type of cruise ship is right for your personal needs, and the Internet is a great place to start!

Some questions you want to write down are: What appeals to you most in your vacation? What are your likes and dislikes? Are you very active, or do you like to sit on the beach all day and soak up the sun, while sipping on a refreshing cocktail? Are you adventurous? Do you love to shop till you drop? Do you prefer the ship experience, or do you prefer to visit a port a day to take in the endless variety of culture? There are so many other factors you can write down to determine what type of cruising experience is right for you, so grab your paper and pencil and start writing away.

Once you establish your requirements for your cruise holiday, the next step is to power-up your computer and do a little research on the types of vessels out there. See what types of itineraries they offer, and what types of Island ports they visit. Sometimes if you\'re not sure what you want, consider going against the norm, and if you usually choose a Caribbean vacation, think about doing a Mexican Cruise, or a Panama Canal cruise. Sometimes you will be pleasantly surprised with the outcome. There is a world out there to explore, and you should see it all if possible.

Depending if your traveling alone, with your partner, friends, or family will also be a determing factor on what type of cruise ship, and itinerary you choose. With the growth of the Cruise Line industry, the options are available to you in abundance, and sometimes overwhelming. So take the steps to find good Cruise Supplier\'s that can be found online, and view all the great cruising options for your vacation needs.

Below I have put together a list of the most popular cruise ship\'s that cater to a variety of needs and normally offer specials on many of their cruise products. Keep in mind that all the ships listed here provide great deals, but your decision will be based on your overall budget, and what you want for your overall vacation experience.

When searching each of the ships amenities, make sure you factor in what they include in their cruise packages so you can make a sound vacation decision. Sometimes you may want to cruise on a luxury vessel that costs more money than the others, so possibly consider if they have a shorter cruise duration with a pre or post add on. In most cases you can experience a high-end sailing, but will come easily come into your budget!

There\'s A Cruise Ship Out There With Your Name On It!

Carnival Cruise Lines

Carnival Cruise Lines has earned its position as the \Most Popular Cruise Line in the World\ by offering more of what consumers desire in a vacation - a wide variety of on-board choices; a fun, relaxed atmosphere; outstanding value; and beautiful and exciting destinations.

Every one of Carnival\'s \Fun Ships\ is a unique floating resort designed with your fun in mind. Venture out of your spacious stateroom and experience the outdoor areas, wonderful restaurants, and friendly casino, relaxing lounges, invigorating spa, exciting nightclubs and duty-free shopping. Go aboard and see for yourself!

Disney Cruise Line

From its inception, Disney Cruise Line was destined to be different. As the first owned and operated cruise line by the dream makers at Disney, Disney Cruise Line specifically designed its ships with areas and activities that appeal to the unique vacation needs of every member of the family.

As a result, Disney Cruise Line vacations offer guests an unbelievable cruise experience not found anywhere else. Disney Cruise Line offers guests an exciting new way to vacation with Disney. The Disney Magic cruise ship alternates weekly between an eastern and western Caribbean itinerary with new seven- and ten-night holiday itineraries.

The Disney Wonder offers one-of-a-kind land and sea vacations that combine the fun and excitement of the Walt Disney World Resort with a three- or four-night Disney Cruise Line voyage to The Bahamas. Cast off on an adventure that will capture the imagination of your entire family. Choose the ideal vacation that fits your needs and dreams.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises is a distinctively different cruise line. Two modern luxury ships carry just 684 guests. Nearly 70% of all staterooms feature private verandas and an extremely attentive European staff provides you exceptional service. At Oceania Cruises, the priority is an extraordinary cruise experience that will fit varied interests and will exceed all your expectations.

This includes the finest cuisine at sea, carefully crafted by world-renowned Master Chef Jacques Pepin. Each ship, Regatta and Insignia offers the flexibility of open-seating dining in four unique restaurants. Experience a country club atmosphere where the expectation is to dress comfortably and where suits, tuxedos and gowns are never required. Outstanding personal service is provided by a staff-to-guest ratio that is among the best in the industry!

There are two mid-size ships that afford incomparable luxury, including cuisine that is simply the finest at sea. With only 684 guests to pamper, our 400 staff members cater to your every whim, with highly personalized service. There\'s a sense of warmth and intimacy throughout, so the ambiance resembles that of a private country club - casual, yet elegant.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises, one of the best-known names in North American cruising, is a global cruise and tour company. It\'s operating a fleet of 14 ships and growing with two more by 2007! They offer over 150 different itineraries calling at nearly 260 ports around the globe. Princess is known for its Personal Choice Cruising program, a fleet-wide dedication to providing passengers with a wide variety of options with which to customize their vacations.

The line\'s ships are designed to offer an array of choices in dining, entertainment and amenities, to enable passengers to create their own personalized cruise experience. Princess itineraries span the globe, with cruises ranging from seven to 72 days in length. Destinations include the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Panama Canal, Mexico, South Pacific, South America, Hawaii/Tahiti, Asia, India, Africa, Holy Land, Canada/New England, Antarctica and World voyages.

Princess is one of the leaders in Alaska CruiseTour vacations, and owns five riverside wilderness lodges, plus a fleet of UltraDome railcars and luxury motorcoaches, which take passengers through the heart of the 49th state. Princess additionally operates cruise tours in China, Australia, Africa, India, Europe, the Canadian Rockies and the eastern United States.

If any of the cruise ships above are not what you desire in a cruise vacation, I recommend visiting our site to view a more extensive line of ships and itineraries that should satisfy everyone\'s needs. Cruising is the best way to experience a vacation with value in mind, and it provides you a variety activities, exotic ports, and food to die for that will create ever lasting memories!

About the author: William Lezubski (Accredited Cruise Counsellor (ACC), and Certified Travel Counsellor(CTC) - William is a professional in the Travel Industry and is the owner and author of \Discount Caribbean Vacations Web Site\ available at http://www.discount-caribbean-vacations.com A great source for Discounted Caribbean Cruises online! Find quality discount cruises, daily cruise deals, and last minute cruises available in one convenient location.

Disneyland Fastpass Secrets & Tips

In 1999 the Disney parks introduced the world to FastPass. A free service that uses computerized ticket machines to allow visitors the opportunity to avoid standing in line for the most popular attractions throughout the Disneyland Resort. Waiting in long lines has now become a thing of the past for those who know the ins & out of how to use FastPass.

How the FastPass reservation machines work:

The FastPass attraction machines are extremely easy to use. Just look for the FastPass machines at a participating show or attraction and insert your park admission ticket. The FastPass machine will print you a ticket with a one hour time slot in which you can return and experience the attraction without having to wait in the full length of the queue. Once you have your reservation you can use the time to visit other attractions, pose for a picture with Mickey Mouse, or get an autograph from you favorite Disney Princess. When it is time for your FastPass reservation make your way back to the attraction, hand your pass to the cast member at the entrance and enjoy the ride without any lengthy line.

There are a few restrictions involved with Disney FastPass though. Each guest may hold only one FastPass for one attraction every two hours or after the one-hour window expires; whichever comes first.

Tips & Secrets:

• Not all of the machines within the parks are connected to the same reservation system. Roger Rabbit\'s Cartoon Spin (Disneyland) and Grizzly River Run (California Adventure) are each on a totally separate computer reservation system. The machines at these attractions are not able to detect if you currently have a reservation at another attraction, which makes it possible to hold a second FastPass reservation at these attractions while still having another reservation elsewhere.
• The bottom of your Disney FastPass reservation ticket will tell you what time you can acquire another FastPass. This is usually the same time as the beginning of your one hour return slot, which means that you can make another FastPass reservation before you\'ve even used your first FastPass. The best strategy to maximize the number of attractions you visit in a day is to always get another FastPass ticket A.S.A.P.
• One little known and very unofficial FastPass secret is that the passes don\'t really expire after the ending time listed on them - hang onto them and use them a few hours later. This way you aren\'t forced to rush back and forth across the park to ride at certain times. Cast Members have been instructed to honor the late arrivals since they don\'t really know the circumstances which have made that guest late.
• AAA offers vacation packages that include an \Enhanced FastPass\. This version of FastPass doesn\'t have restrictions and users can collect one FastPass after another without time or quantity restrictions. The AAA packages including this \Enhanced FastPass\ are not cheap, but if you are willing to pay you\'ll find the benefits are well worth it.

Richie Anderson writes for NCE Party Supplies, an online party store featuring everything you need for a great Mickey Mouse Birthday Party or an enchanting Disney Princess Birthday Party

Hotel Safety Tips You Should Have in Mind on a Holiday

If you travel a lot or even if you travel only during vacation
time, you should always pay attention to your valuable assets
inside the hotel and outside it. Getting something stolen like
your purse, your wallet or your expensive watch will surely ruin
your vacation. Burglars aren\'t your only worry; dangerous
strangers should be avoided too. Hotels may give you an
impression of safety, but they have so many different guests
that the hotel\'s staff can\'t keep an eye on everyone. Therefore,
you are the only one who is best taking care of yourself. Here
are some safety tips to avoid getting unpleasant memories during
your travels.

The thing you should do all the time is to keep your room\'s door
locked. Lock it even if you are inside the room and also put the
security chain. Make sure you have locked the door whenever you
are leaving the room. You can do this by trying the door to see
if it is perfectly closed and locked. It may look a bit
paranoid, but the lock might be broken and your room would be
vulnerable to any nosy intruder who would try the door knob.

If there is someone knocking on the door, look through the view
port first to check on that person. If you don\'t know that
person, don\'t open the door. Don\'t trust people claiming they
are part of the hotel staff if you don\'t expect any visits from
the hotel\'s personnel. Check with the reception to make sure
that person is an employee of the hotel. If you still don\'t
trust that person, you could keep the security chain on while
carrying on the conversation.

The windows are also important. Make sure they are closed and
locked whenever you leave the room.

Always use the hotel\'s main entrance no matter if it\'s day or
night. It is safer to use facilities that are crowded with
guests and hotel\'s staff. Stay away from dark, remote hallways
or rooms.

Jewellery represents the item that is most stolen from hotel
rooms. Put all your valuables into the safe which most hotel
rooms are equipped with. If your room doesn\'t have a safe, you
can use the hotel\'s safe or locked storage facilities. And don\'t
live your valuable things scattered around your room in anyone\'s
sight.

All these tips may sound a bit paranoid, but keep in mind that
being vigilant will save you from a lot of trouble. So whenever
you are travelling, always pay attention to these tips and your
vacation will not be ruined from an unfortunate burglary
incident.

Kuala Lumpur 10 Things You Must See

Kuala Lumpur is a wonderful city with much to see and do. If you are not a native of Kuala Lumpur, it can be hard to decide what to see and do. This is a short synopsis of the 10 things I think you must see in Kuala Lumpur. This is meant as a guide to those of us who are not familiar with this great city.

1.Petronas Twin Towers

The Petronas Twin Towers dominate the sky scape in Kuala Lumpur. They are magnificent pieces of architecture which tower over the rest of Kuala Lumpur and are currently the second tallest buildings in the world, and the tallest twin towers in the world. They were built in 1998 and have 88 floors and reach 452 meters into the sky. The towers were planned in the form of an 8 sided star which in Islam symbolises fullness and regeneration.

There is a viewing deck on the twin towers, the sky bridge which joins the 21st floors of both towers, 150 meters above ground. If you are planning to do this, be sure to get your tickets early to avoid long waits of disappointment.

2.China Town

China Town in Kuala Lumpur is a special place with a fantastic atmosphere and market. The market is held on a street, but is now cleverly covered to prevent rain from disturbing the market.

In China Town you can get everything from quality hand crafted produce to fake clothes. Every major fashion house is represented in China Town by fake produce. If you are planning to buy something here on your visit, and you will, be prepared to haggle if your life depended on it. The people here are good natured, but they will try to sell you anything they can as if their life depended on it.

3.Suria Shopping Center

The Suria Shopping Center at the foot of the Petronas twin towers is a shopping center aimed at the more affluent among us. Here you can buy designer fashion goods from all of the top designers. The Suria Shopping Center is not cheap and is mainly aimed at Arabs who visit Kuala Lumpur during August to escape the heat of their own countries.

The Shopping Center is linked by the LRT (Light Rail Transport) which can take you directly to Sentral Station. Even if you don\'t plan on buying anything here, don\'t miss this spectacle.

4.Merdeka Square

Merdeka Square, known as Independence Square was formerly the Selangor Club field on which cricket was played by expatriates, usually from Britain. The Club is now open to anybody who can afford membership. The square is called Independence Square because on 31 August 1957 the Malaysian flag was raised here for the first time. Today, the Malaysian flag flies from the tallest flag pole in the world, 100 meters.

Merdeka Square is a place of beauty, with the immaculately kept Square alongside the Selangor Club which is built in true British Tudor style and the beautiful Abdul Samad Building which dates to 1897 and now serves as a Government Building

5.Bukit Bintang

Bukit Bintang is the main street of Kuala Lumpur. This is a street that never sleeps and always enjoys a fast pace of life. This is a great place to find a caf to relax your shopping weary body, before you head back in for more shopping.

Bukit Bintang is home to many shopping centers, hotels and restaurants. Amzingly Bukit Bintang is home to 30,000 shops, many of which are in the shopping centers that have entrances from the Bukit Bintang.

6.Lake Gardens (Taman Tasik Perdana)

The Lake Gardens in Kuala Lumpur is a green belt that covers over 90 hectares of land. Originally built around an artificial lake, the gardens are now a major center piece in Kuala Lumpur and offer many types of gardens including an Orchid Garden, a Hibiscus Garden, The Butterfly Park, a Bird Park and much more.

7.Batu Caves

The Batu Caves are located on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur as you head east towards Kuantan or the Genting Highlands. You can see the entrance to the caves from the road which is in the form of an impressive set of steps leading upwards to the mouth of the cave.

The caves are a sacred place for the Hindu population in Malaysia and consist of three main caves and a number of smaller caves. The caves are an impressive sight at 400 meters long and 100 meters high. Be prepared to meet plenty of monkeys here as they vie for your attention in the hope of getting some nuts.

8.Telecommunications Tower

The Telecommunications Tower in Kuala Lumpur is very reminiscent of the famous Toronto and Seattle radio towers. The tower is the 4th tallest radio tower in the world after the CN Tower (Toronto), Ostankino Tower (Moscow) and Oriental Pearl Tower (Shanghai).

Standing 421 meters high and if you are in good physical condition over 2,000 steps await. For the rest of us there is always the lift. There is an observation platform at the top of the tower which many say is better than that on the Twin Towers for a number of reasons, you can see the Twin Towers in your view and you get panoramic views over the city. There is also a revolving restaurant here.

9.Central Market

Central Market in Kuala Lumpur, built in 1928, is set in a stunning building. The market is easily accessed by public transport. Here you will find all sorts of arts and crafts alongside souvenir shops selling models of the Twin Towers and Kuala Lumpur T-shirts.

Central Market is not just about arts and crafts, but more about a central location for a wider cultural offering. Here you can see cultural performances and sample some of the fantastic cuisine.

10.Mega mall

The Mega Mall is a massive shopping complex and if you are looking for a reasonable place to shop in comfort, this is it. There are hundreds of shops and restaurants here and it is an easy place to get lost in for a day. The shopping center is a short taxi ride from KLCC or a train ride from Sentral Station.

Ronan Menton is the webmaster for a number of travel related websites and has been for some time in Ireland, associated with search engine optimisation in the Irish travel industry. He spends two months a year in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and now sees it as his second home.Among the many sites he is currently working on are the following: hotels in Singapore and hotels in Kuala Lumpur

The Grec Festival emphasizes on creativity and international

The 2005 Grec Festival arrives to Barcelona again for its 29 edition with a wide offer of theatre, dance and music. This succession of shows, that will be celebrated from the 27th of Juny until the 8th of August, has turned into a cultural point of reference of the city, which seeks to promote the creation, the concreteness and its internationalization, according to sources of the organization.

In theatre, the event has made agreements of exchange and co-production of shows with some of the most important institutions and companies of the world. An example of this is the work of The Karamzov Brothers directed by Krystian Magnifier, fruit of the joint work with the Vienna Festival. Likewise, the collaboration with the Volkshne of Berlin expresses itself in The Ten Commandments, directed by Christoph Marthaler. The Catalonian Xicu Mas directs the comedy of William Shakespeare To your pleasure.

In dance the emphasize is upon the contemporary Trisha Brown and the new proposal by Mal Pelo Atlas, where the last one is full of reflective and intimate poetry.

Music and cultures

In the world of music, continuing the keynote of the extensive range of offers that exist in Barcelona throughout the year, many of the artists will delight the public with a greatly varied performance. With this they intent to attract musicians that have not yet performed in Barcelona and experiment with magical matches where musicians of different styles coincided on the stage.

Here you'll have a taste of what is waiting for you in this festival, the Italian singer and songwriter Paolo Conte will visit the count city for the first time, the fragile Marianne Faithfull will contribute strength and emotion, the young Jaime Cullum show us the world of jazz, the up-to-date Silvio Rodriguez will reflect on the war of Iraq, the sensual Craig David will introduce you to his second record Slicker than your average, the spiritual Cheikh L will present to us the Muslim and African culture, while the English Joss Stone stands out with one of the most appreciated voices of the soul. Orishas will give a Latin touch to the festival with an explosive mixture of hip hop with son cubano.

Of Spanish representatives, the incombustible Joan Manuel Serrat will give four recitals, Martirio and Miguel Poveda will honour to the couplet and Bebe and El Bicho from Madrid will offer the coolness of their music. The Majorcan pianist Agust Fernndez, the drums player from Alicante Ramn Lpez and the English bass player Barry Guy will fuse the improvisation with the tradition of the modernity.

Social awakening

25 years ago, the members of the Catalonian theatre, gathered in the Assembly of Actors and Directors, decided to impel an aimed initiative to give a voice to their demands, so much in the professional as the social plan. Besides intending to obtain improvements in the sector, they sought to bring the theatre closer to the people, to make the culture a necessity, not a luxury.

The 1st of July 1976 the Grec is opened in the old theatre of Montjuc with The 7 hours of rock. The Assembly decided to give priority to the music to emphasize the popular character of the event, in that period the effervescence of the phenomenon was given to the singer-songwriters, the symbol of the social and political demands of the post Franco's regime.

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