air travel info blog

Where to Stay in Steamboat Springs

2009-06-24T23:52:00.001-07:00

There are enough hotels and condominiums available for rent in
Steamboat Springs, Colorado, that one week in each and you\'d be
there for the better part of two years. From the downtown area
to the base of the mountains you\'ll find a dazzling array of
hotels in Steamboat Springs -- from modestly priced motel rooms
to the most luxurious ski lodges you could possibly imagine. And
as is the case these days in any desirable resort area, there
are condos available everywhere. For such a small town it\'s hard
to believe that there are over 5,000 rooms available for rent.

The price range is impressive as well. Probably the cheapest
room you could get during the winter skiing season in Steamboat
Springs will cost you about $150 per night. And should you hit
the lottery and end up in one of the luxurious Steamboat Springs
hotels to celebrate, you might end up paying as much as $700 per
night for the privilege.

There are motels with coffee shops where you can get some donuts
and coffee before hitting the slopes all the way up to the
luxury hotels some of which offer a sumptuous buffet with
everything imaginable waiting for you to help start your day. It
all depends on your pocket book and what it is that you wish to
experience while you are visiting Steamboat Springs.

There aren\'t a lot of choices when it comes to Steamboat Springs
bed & breakfast style lodging. There are eight establishments
around town that fall into this category and they range in price
from about $100 to $300 per night. The most famous one is called
Moving Mountains, a lodge that recreates the look and feel of a
traditional European mountain chalet. Located on Steamboat
Mountain about a mile and a half from the base and close to the
Thunderbird high-speed quad lifts, you will see remarkable views
of the surrounding environment from both inside your room and
from the outdoor hot tub. Eat there and you\'ll be served by a
four star gourmet chef who will create dishes usually reserved
for four star European restaurants. Hire one of their limousines
to drive you around the area and you\'ll feel like a king
surveying his mountain kingdom. Unbeatable luxury for a fraction
of the price it would cost you anywhere outside of Steamboat
Springs.

Fun Things to Do on Your Vacation!

2009-06-24T00:46:00.000-07:00

That\'s the intent of this article, to wake up some ideas in your head, and plan for things to do in Florida and any of your travels.

When we venture down to Florida or anywhere for that fact of the matter, we first figure out what activities we definitely don\'t want to miss. Here is our list of favorite things to do on vacation

1. Sit on the beach and play in the ocean. This is a no brainer. We love to walk the beach, bathe in the sun, play in the waves, and watch the beautiful people.

What types of things do you do on your vacation? What activities do you have planned? Do you relax, go active, or a little of both?

2. Play golf. Golf is a great game. There are excellent golf courses all over the world to choose from and you can even plan an entire golf vacation.

3. Go fishing. Deep sea fishing or fishing from a pier is a blast. If you have never done this try it once, you\'ll love it.

4. Other sporting activities like scuba, snorkeling, water skiing, parasailing, renting jet skis, or whatever. There are a ton of water activities to choose from.

5. Day trips and tours are awesome choices. Rent a boat for the day. Take a barefoot cruise. Venture over to Orlando and go to Disney World or any theme park. Dinner cruises, exploring, hiking, tours at local sites, and anything else that you can think of.

6. Go shopping! Yes, the ladies will love this one and probably already have it planned. I hate to shop, but it is actually fun when I am on vacation. It wears me out though. Take some extra money and visit the local shops, find souvenirs, and spend some of that hard-earned money.

7. Drive around. We have rented convertibles or motorcycles for a couple of days and just explored the area. One time, we went from Miami to Key West and spent the day there. Another time, we traveled up the A1A highway along the Atlantic Coast of Florida, enjoying the luxurious homes, yachts, and views. You can even do this as a weekend getaway. Find a cool spot that\'s only 6 hours or less away and take off. We always have fun doing this.

8. Take in local entertainment, events, restaurants, and such. Go dancing, find the best watering holes, do something romantic, party likes its 1999. Remember, you are on vacation and it\'s time to have some fun and do stuff you don\'t usually get to do at home.

The list is as endless as your imagination. These are just a few general ideas that we always plan on doing. Be creative and try new things.

Enjoy your trip, have a good time, and tell us your stories!!!

Discount Florida Vacations is a total Florida vacation guide offering fun, sun, tips, ideas, checklists, help, recommendations, resources, and experiences for anyone traveling to Florida. You can find excellent information or plan your trip with us at http://www.discount-florida-vacations.com

Great European Ski Resorts for Singles

2009-06-23T01:48:00.000-07:00

If you yell single in the lift line, there are several European resorts catering to your desires for fun and companionship.

France's Val d'Isre is known for its lively nightlife and its group lessons, a winning combination for single snow sport enthusiasts. In November at the Ski School, choose either a full week or a long weekend of intensive courses designed to set you up for the season. Participants ski on the Grand Motte Glacier in Tignes. Many skiers and snowboarders come on their own to these early season clinics to enjoy the group atmosphere.

Once those ski skills are honed, head to Switzerland's legendary Verbier. Verbier, situated at an altitude of 1,500 meters (4,875 feet) is part of the skiing area in the Four Valles, which offers over 410 kilometers (256 miles) of runs for all levels and 92 ski-lift installations, which can all be used with a single ski pass. The highest point of this area at high altitude is the summit of the Mont Fort glacier, at 3,330 meters (10,825 feet), and it offers ideal skiing conditions from the beginning to the end of the season. After a day on its challenging slopes you can head to the village center, a hub of activity where all the hotspots are found. Visit the Farinet, Fer Cheval and Garbo, where bars and cafs can be found aplenty around the town square and alleys.

Also providing both world-renowned skiing and nightlife is Austria's St. Anton. St. Anton am Arlberg was the host for the 2001 World Alpine Championships and is arguably one of the best ski resorts in the world. St. Anton is the resort for a challenge, with awesome off-trail, moguls and powder. Snowboarders have only recently been welcomed at this resort, but now have a great variety to choose from. In addition to variety on the hill, St Anton offers a wide range of aprs-ski, with bars and clubs galore.

In Italy, singles will find what they're looking for at Sauze d'Ouix. Famous for its aprs-ski, Sauze d'Oulx manages to surprise many visitors. The ski area is extensive and varied, linked to Sansicario, Sestriere, and also Montgenevre just across the border in France. There are pretty, quaint little cobbled streets in the old part of the village, and it is a popular weekend retreat for Italians from Turin or Milan. Winter activities include ice skating, torchlight descents, and cinema; as well as a good range of lively bars and restaurants and a weekly market.

Every skier should go to Klosters at least once in their lifetime. The area is giant and so popular that it always feels like a big party. As it is always the case with busy resorts, the on-slope dining and bars are lively and top quality. The Youth Hostel has some cozy single rooms and is filled with singles from around the world looking for a good time on the slope and off.

Andorra is geared to the single, adult skier who is looking for something different. It is populated in the winter by mainly Spanish, French, and English skiers who don't seem to mind the college-like atmosphere which includes cramming several people into a room, eating late in the evening, and going to loud crowded bars.

These are just of few of the European resorts designed with the single in mind.

Ready to plan?
http://www.ski-europe.com/rfp/ser.html

For more articles like this you can subscribe to www.skieuropereport.com or email: travel@ski-europe.com

This article is reprinted with permission of www.ski-europe.com

About the Author

Chryss Cada has been a freelance ski writer for more than a dozen years.

Her travel writing appears on-line, in print and on the airwaves. As a freelance journalist she covers breaking news and regional trends for the Boston Globe. She has a nationally syndicated lifestyle column that appears in papers across the country, including The Washington Post and she's working on her first novel.

Injuries While Traveling A Paremedics Point of View

2009-06-22T02:42:00.001-07:00

Adventure Travels in general are much more prone to injury while on vacation than someone who is doing a city-tour or a cruise. That\'s just the nature of sports. Even the most careful person can get injured.

In addition to the normal health-care issues which can occur at any given time, such as the flu, a cold, or even a heart attack, the adventure traveler is at risk for sport related injuries. A skier can take a tumble and fracture a leg, a hiker can sprain an ankle, and a mountain biker could fall and get a concussion. When you are at home, or in the United States, you are aware of how to handle such injuries. You know which emergency number to call, you know how the hospital works, the people involved speak English, and your insurance will cover it. But when you are on an adventure travel vacation abroad, you may not be familiar with the health care system.

Health care in European countries, such as Germany, Austria, and France, is excellent, and hospitals are equally capable of treating injuries as hospitals in the states. These countries also have Emergency Medical Services which are similar to those in the United States. However, the adventure traveler still faces a number of difficulties in getting help. First, as a traveler, it is unlikely that you have a cell phone, which functions in Europe, which you can use to call for help. Second, you may not speak the native language, and may not be able to adequately explain where you are, and not everyone speaks adequate English. Third, you may face payment issues if your insurance does not cover international accidents. However, theses problems can all be avoided with a little bit of advance planning.

When doing an extreme sport, regardless of where you are, you should never do it alone, as the risk that when you are injured, you unable to call for help, is too great. Similarly, when traveling internationally, you should never venture off alone to mountain bike through the woods, or ski off piste; and if you do, you should always tell someone roughly where you will be. If you do travel with someone who has a cell phone which functions internationally, be sure to store the local emergency numbers in the phone, and bring it with you.

The language barrier is unfortunately a problem with no easy solution. Although many Europeans speak excellent English, there is no guarantee that those whom you come into contact with will, especially in the EMS. In hospitals communication is normally not a problem; if the doctor does not speak English, there are normally English speaking members of the staff available to translate. The best way to avoid translation issues is to carry a tourism book or dictionary with you where phrases are listed in English with the native equivalent. This is especially important if you have allergies or existing health problems!

The easiest way to avoid these problems is to travel in a tour group. I know, you are probably thinking \A tour group, how boring,\ but it doesn\'t have to be boring! There are a number of companies which offer guided adventure travel tours, which offer [breal Adventure Travel[/b not \adventure travel for retirees.\ By traveling in a group, you have the extra security that the guide is familiar with the local health care system, native language, and also most likely has a cell phone near by at all times. This alone can mean the difference between life and death when the injuries are serious.

Finally, be sure to inform yourself, before departing for your vacation, weather or not your insurance covers international health care, and if so what types. For instance, I had an insurance policy once which covered inpatient treatment over 24 hours. Any medical care which was under 24 hours, I had to pay for myself.

Despite the additional risks that come from being an adventure traveler, if you plan a little bit in advance, you can travel with a feeling of security.

Corey Hannum is the president of European Adventure Travel, a provider of guided luxury adventure travel tours in Europe, and authors the Adventure Travel News blog. He is also a certified paramedic, and has bachelors\' degree in German. In addition, he is a dedicated skier and sports enthusiast.

Sailing on the Costa del Sol

2009-06-21T03:42:00.001-07:00

Spain is part of the European Union and all EU and American nationals can visit the country for a period of no longer than 90 days solely with a passport. EU national can apply for a residency permit if they wish to extend their stay. Non EU nationals can apply for a further 90 day extension. These regulations do not appear to be enforced as far as the yachtsman living aboard is concerned. It is advisable to clear customs if entering Spain for the first time. The vessel\'s registration papers and the passports of crew members will be required. A certificate of competence, evidence of the boat\'s VAT status, a crew list with passport details, the radio license and a certificate of insurance may also be required. A VAT (Value Added Tax) paid or exempt yacht can apply for a \permiso aduanero\ . This allows for an indefinite stay in the country and can be helpful when importing yacht spares from other EU countries. Boats registered outside the EU on which VAT has not been paid may be imported into the EU for a period not exceeding six months in any twelve, after that VAT becomes due. This period can often be extended by prior arrangement with the local custom authorities. There is a legal requirement for foreign vessels to fly their own national maritime flag together with the courtesy flag of Spain.

It is worth considering the following equipment when cruising this area. An SSB radio is useful for obtaining weather forecasts. It is very hot in the summer and ventilation is important. It may be worth fitting extra hatches and a wind scoop over the fore hatch will help a lot. An awning or biminy, covering the cockpit, to provide shelter from the sun is a must. A cockpit table is useful as eating outside during the summer months is one of the pleasures of cruising. Mosquitoes can be a problem and many boats screen all openings while others rely on mosquito coils, insecticides and repellents. Sunburn is the other hazard cruisers should be aware of, the sun can be deceptively strong while the boat is underway, plenty of cream and a hat will go along way to avoid the misery of sunstroke.

There is a constant east going current of between 1 and 2 knots flowing through the straight of Gibraltar and between the Costa del Sol and the north African coast. There is some tide to be considered at the western end of the region, Gibraltar sees 1 metre at most. This diminishes the further east traveled. The weather is affected by several systems and is consequently difficult to predict. There is an old saying that in the summer months nine days of light winds will be followed by a full blown gale that is inaccurate. A wind from the northwest is known as the \tramotana\. It can be dangerous because it can arrive and reach gale force in as little as 15 minutes. It often lasts for 3 days and can blow in excess of a week. The wind from the east, the \levante\ can also blow for several days at gale force. Annual rainfall at Gibraltar is 760mm. The Costa del Sol will experience about 4 days a month of fog. Summer temperatures can exceed 35 degrees C and the winter months see around 15 degrees.

The remainder of this article looks principally at the harbours of the Costa del Sol. There are also numerous anchorages bbut only a few of the notable ones are mentioned here.

Marina Bay is largest of Gibraltar\'s three marinas with 350 berths. Most berthing is stern/bow to. Larger yachts can lie alongside. Water and electricity on the pontoons. Within the complex you will find a chandlers, launderette and a good selection of restaurants and bars. There is an indoor market less than 5 minutes walk from the marina. Queensway Marina is much quieter than Gibraltar\'s other two marinas. Security is excellent with all the pontoons being gated. Within the complex you will find several restaurants and bars. Gibraltar itself was ceded from the Spanish to the British in the early 18th century and for most of it\'s history since that time Spain has been trying to get it back. There is evidence of this wherever you go on the rock. The rock itself is honeycombed with tunnels constructed at one time or another for the purposes of adding to the defences of Gibraltar. Many of the older tunnels are open to the public and feature exhibitions of how life was for the soldiers of the day. Many of the tunnels are most definitely not open to the public and there is considerable speculation as to what might be seen in these. You can see Rosia Bay where Admiral Lord Nelson\'s body was bought ashore from HMS Victory following his famous victory over a combined French and Spanish fleet at the Battle of Trafalgar. Nelson\'s body was returned to Britain for a hero\'s funeral but many of the seamen who died alongside him in the battle are buried on the rock at the Trafalgar cemetery. Take a cable car ride to the top of the rock, stunning views of Spain and across the straights to Morocco. Up here you will also find the famous colony of Barbary apes. Rumor has it that only when the apes are no more will the British leave the Rock. A rumor taken seriously by Winston Churchill, the Prime Minister of Britain during the Second World War, who on learning of their dwindling population ordered more to be bought to the Rock from Africa.

Puerto de Sotogrande is an attractive marina complex surrounded by apartments, shops, bars and restaurants. The overall design has been inspired by Portofino. There are sandy beaches to either side of the marina and golf, riding, tennis and squash courts nearby. One of the most expensive marinas on this part of the coast.

One of my favorites is Puerto de la Duquessa. Not too big and not to noisy. The marina is surrounded by apartments, shops, restaurants and bars. The marina offers free medical care to it\'s users. There are sandy beaches either side of the marina. The village of Sabinillas is 5 minutes walk to the north. Another bus will take you to the village of Casares which clings to the side of a mountain. Marbella, popular with the rich and famous is another bus journey away. Don\'t expect to see the famous on the bus though, they are the ones in the Ferraris. Hire a car and drive up to the picturesque town of Ronda.

Puerto de Estapona is a medium sized marina with the usual development of restaurants and bars.

Puerto de Jose Banus, the marina of the rich and famous and the prices reflect this. Whitewashed, Andalucian style building surround the marina, hosting boutiques, bars, restaurants and night clubs. There are several Yacht Charter and Yacht Brokerage operations within the marina complex. Marbella is 15 minutes away by car or bus. Good beach to the west of the marina which belongs to the hotel and allows berth holders access. This can be arranged at the control tower. Many golf courses in the area.

The small marina at Puerto de Marbella is surrounded by tourist developments. The marina can be noisy at night during the summer months. Wind from the east, south and southwest can produce a heavy swell within the harbour. Be prepared to double up on lines. Beaches on either side of the marina but these get very crowded during the summer months. The town itself is well worth exploring. Don\'t miss the famous Orange Square which can be found at the heart of the city centre.

Puerto de Cabopino is a pleasant, small harbour surrounded by Andalucian style houses which makes a nice change from the normal high rise developments. Good shelter within the harbour. Limited space for transient yachts and it is recommended that you call ahead to confirm there is a berth available. Marina charges are on the high side. Cabopino beach, with it\'s fine sand is reckoned to be one of the best on the Costa del Sol

Good shelter can be found at Puerto de Fuengirola. The nearby town is both noisy and very busy during the summer months. All provisions can be obtained in the town. There are good beaches on either side of the marina but these get very crowded during the summer months.

Puerto de Benalmadena is a huge marina with over 150,000 square metres of water. There is good shelter with the only swell being experienced in a W gale. Whilst the surrounding area is the usual overpowering high rise blacks the marina itself is quite attractive. It was named best marina in the world in both 1995 and 1998. There are over 200 commercial premises including boutiques, night clubs and the usual numerous restaurants and bars. There is also a sea life centre. There are good beaches on either side of the marina. Malaga airport is just 8 km away.

Puerto de Malaga is the major commercial and fishing port of the Costa del Sol. The only facilities for yachts are at the Real Club Mediterraneo de Malaga and there is little room for visitors. Malaga, known as the \City of Flowers\ is both interesting and charming. It can be reached on foot from the port.

The small harbour of Puerto del Candado is found 3.5 miles E of Malaga. Suitable for vessels drawing 2m or less. With strong winds from the W - SW considerable swell builds up and the harbour becomes uncomfortable. Harbour charges are low

Puerto de Puerto Caleta de Velez is a quiet fishing harbour 22 miles to east of Malaga. There are beaches on either side of the marina.

The anchorages of Fondeadero de Neja and Cala de Miel are both worth a visit. Cala de Miel has a fresh water spring.

Marina del Este is a purpose built marina set amongst a huge housing development in a beautiful area. Wind from NE - E produces a limited amount of swell within the marina. Harbour charges are high in the summer months. There is a small beach close to the harbour and a pool at the yacht club. There are prehistoric caves to be seen at Nerja. The city of Granada and the famous Alhambra can be seen in a days trip. As can the Alpahurras valley, with it\'s charming villages, towered over by the magnificent Sierra Nevada.

Once a small fishing port, Puerto de Motril has developed into a commercial port serving the inland city of Granada. Beaches on either side of the harbour.

The harbour of Puerto de Adra was founded by the Phoenicians and has been in use ever since. Today it is both a commercial and fishing port. The continual movement of the fishing boats makes for much disturbance. Facilities are limited. Harbour charges are high. Beaches on either side of the harbour. Adra town is small and has little in the way of development for tourism.

Puerto de Almerimar, a very large marina with the capacity for over 1,000 boats. Excellent shelter from everything but strong SW winds when some swell can build up towards the entrance of the harbour. Prices are low. Astonishingly so compared to some other marinas on the Costa del Sol. Sandy beaches on either side of the marina. This part of the coast is covered with plastic greenhouses, it has to be seen to be appreciated both for the vast number of acres under cover and it\'s ugliness.

Puerto de Roquetas del Mar is a small fishing harbour. Strong winds from the SE - NE make the harbour uncomfortable.

Good shelter can be found at Puerto de del Aguadulce except with wind from the ESE which can cause some swell making conditions uncomfortable. The marina can cater for some 150 boats. The complex includes a swimming pool and squash court. Sandy beaches to the S with waters clean enough to merit a blue CE flag. Two 18 hole golf courses.

The Puerto de Almeria is a commercial & fishing port. Yachts use the Club de Mar del Almeria. There are several large rusty industrial structures close by a dominating the view and giving the place a rather grim feel. Overall the shelter is good but strong winds from the E produce swell that makes it uncomfortable within the marina. The Alcazaba inAlmeria, a Moorish castle, is well worth a visit.

Ken Jones runs a Sailing Site. More information about Cruising can be found here To find other Marine Services on the Costa del Sol visit the Marine Directory.

Hotels Hotels Hotels...which one do I choose!

2009-06-20T04:41:00.000-07:00

Hotels in Las Vegas furnish a guest with the excitement, amenities and appeal of this wonderful destination. Everyone has heard of Circus Circus. Its appealing restaurants, theme parks, shops, gaming and the world's greatest circus acts guarantees good fun for everyone. Best of all, it continues to be the value leader on the Las Vegas Strip. The possibilities are unlimited in where to stay, when you play in Las Vegas! Some things to consider when selecting a hotel are its amenities, restaurants, attractions and more. Check out the casinos for games, dining and entertainment.

Hotels like Hilton have the hottest entertainment acts performing nightly. From the nightclub center stage to the world famous theater, only the top acts in show business perform on stage at the Las Vegas Hilton. It has spacious accommodations, which provides you a homey atmosphere and makes you feel like a pampered guest. Heck, you can even enjoy yourself in cheap hotels or discount hotels.

Hotel Marriot ----What I really liked about the room was the huge Jacuzzi tub that you could lay down in. That is ultimate pleasure! There are several restaurants presently at the JW Marriott. The pool is one of the best features at the JW Marriott. It offers a serene environment to host board meetings or romantic weddings, receptions and social affairs. Wedding parties have the opportunity to select a venue sited for rehearsal dinners, bridesmaid's brunches or evening parties when staying at the Marriott.

Mike Yeager

Publisher

http://www.a1-vacations-4u.com/

mjy610@hotmail.com

Your Vacation First Aid Kit

2009-06-19T05:47:00.001-07:00

Your vacation supplies must include a first-aid kit.

Have it available while traveling and take it with you whenever you go walking, hiking, or any activity that takes you away from civilization.

You can use just about any type of container for your first-aid kit. It's best if the container is lightweight, like plastic, and has a good lid. A handle can be useful also. A small toolbox, lunchbox, fishing tackle box or even kitchen Tupperware would work.

Here is a list of things to consider including in your vacation first-aid kit. This is not a comprehensive list and you may have other items to add.

You should have some sterile gauze with adhesive tape and scissors to cut them. Make sure the scissors are sharp. Also multiple sizes of band-aids. Tip: Sanitary napkins are sterile and make good compresses to stop bleeding.

To clean cuts and wounds include antibiotic cream, hydrogen peroxide and antiseptic wipes.

Consider including aspirin and acetaminophen, instant cold packs, calamine lotion and hydrocortisone cream.

Also, antacid, insect repellent, motion sickness medication, anti-diarrhea medication, sunscreen, cold and flu tablets

If anyone is taking prescription medicine be sure to bring enough for the whole trip.

The first-aid kit is a good place to store a list of emergency numbers along with your medical insurance information.

It's always a good idea to have a first-aid manual on hand and review it before you leave. This way you will be much more prepared should a situation arise where you need it. This is a great opportunity for children to learn a little about first-aid so review the manual with them too.

Other miscellaneous items that could be helpful are thermometer, latex gloves, tweezers and flashlight with spare batteries.

Keep your vacation first-aid kit easily accessible at all times but away from small children.

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

The author, of this article, Peter Shannon, is the owner of the website www.1001-vacation-ideas.com. Here you will find a large collection of vacation and getaway ideas for travelers searchable by theme and location.

Highway Madness: Holiday Travel In New Jersey

2009-06-18T06:42:00.001-07:00

My family decided to brave the state\'s highway system one recent Thanksgiving by traveling the New Jersey Turnpike south to my sister\'s house off of Exit 7A. We started on Exit 18, knowing full well that we would hit some traffic before we arrived at her home some 70 miles later. Little did we know that our trip would be a bit of an adventure: not the type we would have liked to participated in either.

It was shortly after the noon hour when our car passed through the EZPass booth. We soon found ourselves traveling past Newark Liberty Airport and the \bucolic beauty\ of industrial Linden, NJ. Choosing the car-only lanes seemed most sensible; with enough big rigs and buses on the road we didn\'t want to subject our midsize car to the wake of a tandem trailer whooshing on by. Soon after making that decision we noticed brake lights more than one mile down the road and a helicopter hovering overhead. Uh oh, this did not look good.

As we arrived near the stopped traffic, police cars and emergency vehicles screamed by along the shoulder. Within ten minutes we were upon the scene: a green minivan had gone off the road and flipped on its side. We didn\'t want to stare too closely but it did look like as if a small tree was sticking out of the windshield. We all said a prayer for the inhabitants and were thanking God that the rescue workers were already there doing what they do best. Moments later the traffic broke and we found ourselves once again heading south on the turnpike with not a little bit of thanks to God on our part that we were safe.

Holiday travel in New Jersey is fun. Okay, barely tolerable is more like it. If you have family more than 25 miles away, more than likely you will be on one of the major roadways at some point in your trip. It seemed, at times, that the entire New Jersey populace was going where we were going. I only hoped that my sister had a large enough turkey for everyone.

By Exit 8A, traffic had slowed again so we decided to exit the turnpike and follow Route 130 south. Not a great choice as Route 130 is a four lane roadway desperately needing more lanes and less traffic lights. Still, we felt that it beat the turnpike parking lot syndrome.

Near Cranbury we began to experience deja vu all over again as the saying goes. Stopped traffic. Sirens. Emergency vehicles spotted in front of us. The entire highway closed and traffic rerouted. Unlike the previous accident, we weren\'t going to witness the rescue attempt. So, we said some more prayers for the victims, exited Route 130, and found ourselves following other cars through the town of Cranbury.

At this point, we were in unfamiliar territory, but I didn\'t mind it. Cranbury is a lovely historic town that seems set in the mid-19th century. Nothing is new, everything is preserved. If you must be detoured somewhere in New Jersey, this town is the place to visit. Tastefully decked out in Christmas splendor, Cranbury looks nicer than Walgreen\'s town of Perfect. It isn\'t perfect, but it is real!

Somehow by following signs -- there are places in New Jersey where signs will get you where you are going -- we arrived at my sister\'s home. We shared our stories of accident scenes witnessed, a detour taken, and a town admired. The highway madness of earlier that day soon faded away as we enjoyed the company of family and our Thanksgiving feast.

In the early evening we decided to take our tired children and head home. Traffic was much lighter and it moved quickly. Heading north on the New Jersey Turnpike, we decided to exit the road and travel north on the Garden State Parkway, which would bring us closer to our home. What had been a two hour trip down was looking like a 75 minute sprint home. Everything was clear and seemed uneventful. How soon that would change.

We noticed in the vicinity of the Union tolls that traffic was slowing down. At first, we chalked it up to the usual bobbing and weaving one must do in order to find the correct toll lane. However, as we made the approach to the tolls we looked over to the southbound lane and saw the all too familiar scenery of emergency vehicles. Not again.

This time the scene seemed even more horrific. Pulled off the road just south of the toll booths was a public transit bus. A police officer stood outside shining a light through the broken passenger windows. We could see all the windows were blown out by a fire that appeared to have consumed the bus. None of us wanted to imagine what happened; we simply grimaced and said yet another prayer to Almighty God for mercy.

The remainder of the trip home found our car engulfed in silence.Looking back, I certainly can give thanks for not being involved in any one of the three accidents. We don\'t know if any produced fatalities, but we do know that lives were changed that day. Whether people were speeding, cut off, falling asleep behind the wheel, or for whatever other reason the accident happened, we will never know. Quite frankly, it no longer mattered.

What we do know is this: even under the best conditions and in the best weather, road trips cannot be taken for granted. New Jersey roads are crowded, but serious accidents occur all over the country. That is why our family prays for traveling mercies before we take an extended trip and why we are quick to hold victims up in prayer when we come upon an accident scene.Life is too precious to do anything less.

This article originally appeared on Townstead.com, a defunct site managed by Matt Keegan. It was part of his \Life in New Jersey\ series of articles.

Matthew Keegan is the owner of a successful article writing, web design, and marketing business based in North Carolina, USA. He manages several sites including the Corporate Flight Attendant Community and the Aviation Employment Board. Please visit The Article Writer to review selections from his portfolio.

Thinking about a vacation in New York? Visit Hotelconxions.com

2009-06-17T07:41:00.001-07:00

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They don\'t come any bigger than the Big Apple - king of the
hill, top of the heap, New York. It has world-class museums, big
statues, even bigger buildings, outrageous excess, and a whole
lot of whooo-wheee! New York is a densely packed mass of
humanity and all this living on top of one another makes the New
Yorker a special kind of person.

Major Attractions include the American Museum of Natural
History, Central Park, Empire State Building, Metropolitan
Museum of Art, Museum of Modern Art, SoHo, Statue of Liberty,
the Empire State Building, Times Square, Tribeca, Greenwich
Village and many more.

There are some 50 officially recognized parades each year, along
with more than 400 street fairs. Times Square\'s New Year\'s Eve
festivities are probably the most famous in the world; less
popular is the 5 mile (8km) midnight run in Central Park. On 5
January, thousands of children wander up 5th Ave, in a cavalcade
of sheep, camels and donkeys, for the Three Kings Parade. The St
Patrick\'s Day Parade down 5th Ave on 17 March has been held
every year for 200 years. In mid-May the International Food
Festival clogs 9th Ave, while in June Tibetan Monks discuss
transcendental matters in Central Park as part of Change Your
Mind Day. The JVC Jazz Festival is also held in June, as is the
free Shakespeare in the Park, where some of the screen\'s biggest
stars do the bard in Central Park. On 4 July, Macy\'s sponsors an
Independence Day fireworks spectacle on the East River. The
city\'s premier black neighborhood celebrates Harlem Week in
August, and on Labor Day over one million people take part in
the West Indian American Day Carnival Parade in Brooklyn, the
biggest single event for the year. The New York Film Festival
also takes place in September. Macy\'s Thanksgiving Parade in
November is always popular, and for more festive cheer don\'t
miss the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting on the
following Tuesday

The website hotelconxions.com allows leisure and business
travelers searching the Internet a place to search for
information on places to go and a hotel to stay in New York and
other US cities. User have the choice to book on line or call a
toll free number 1 800 522 9991 to reserve a hotel room in New
York. Its user-friendly format allows visitors to research
prices and what to see and do in New York and other cities with
the click of a button. Destination deal information and rich
imagery of the region are profiled on the site. Secure
reservations with instant email receipt available. Confirmation
is a guarantee for all customers. Whether traveling for business
or pleasure, Hotelconxions knows the area and can recommend
lodging and activities that will make every stay memorable.

All information pertaining to www.hotelconxions.com has been
extensively Presented in the pages of the site and offers a
unique user experience blending creativity and functionality.
This comprehensive portal enables Hotelconxions to showcase of
all its Hotels, Hotels and Resorts in USA in a detailed fashion,
including dedicated sections on the site for each Hotel and
Resort.

Our inventory of hotels of New York include prime properties
such as Edison Hotel: Theater District, three star, full service
tourist class hotel New York Hemlsley: Modern four star hotel
located on Manhattan\'s luxurious east side with deluxe guest
room amenities Kimberly Suite Hotel: Midtown Luxury Suite & Spa
Hotel Hotel St. James: located in the heart of Times Square
Mellinnium Broadway Hotel: A beautiful four star Art Deco hotel
located in New York City\'s renowned Theater District

And many more...

For further information please visit our site:
www.hotelconxions.com

The Best Carnival Cruise Deals

2009-06-16T08:42:00.001-07:00

What is the best way to relax on a vacation - a cruise? Right?
However there is no free lunch, everything comes at a price. But
to get the best, price is never a concern, but the value is.
Taking a longer vacation on a high end cruise liner can set you
back by a huge amount. Good for you that you don't have to spend
a fortune on a wonderful vacation, to an exotic location like
Caribbean.

Just visit the Carnival's website and feel the difference.
Usually when the departure time is nearing, the company offers
deals that are unbeatable and unthinkable of. The lesser the
bookings the better the savings for you. The company loses money
if it runs empty houses, so they start offering significant
discounts to fill in vacancies. The direct relationship is with
the passengers; they would want to go in on a filled cruise and
makes them believe that they are headed for the right
destination.

On the same lines, you get a good bargain at few websites. There
are quite a few websites that offer you amazing discounts on
major cruises. These are very handy when you have a budget
constraint. The flip side is that you may not get to choose. So,
you may not be able to customize as many options as you would if
buying from another source, but you can still get a great deal
on a luxury cruise.

There are also special promotions that may be offered from
Carnival for various reasons. The reasons are many - company
anniversary, milestones or other related factors... You should
simply check the company's website periodically to see what they
have available. When it comes to deals, the more research you
do, the less you will probably have to pay.

So a well planned and a cozy vacation is just a click away and
the best way to ensure is to do your homework. Research well and
everything else falls in place

Sensational Scuba Diving Trips

2009-06-14T10:42:00.001-07:00

In a world that's covered with water, the selection of
destinations for scuba diving trips is endless.

Many recreational activities are limited as to where they
can be found, but scuba diving is one of those sports that
can be enjoyed the world over. Thousands of travelers
schedule scuba diving trips each year as part of their
yearly vacations.

Divers who prefer not to travel too far can find a location
within close flying distance. Others who prefer something a
little more exotic can certainly locate incredible diving in
a far-off country.

Wherever your desire to travel may take you, the diving is
sure to be exciting and varied. Each scuba diving trip
offers something different from the one before, thanks to
the diverse marine life living in the oceans of the world.

Consider some of these worldwide scuba diving destinations
for your next diving trip.

St. Lucia

Located in the southeastern Caribbean, St. Lucia is not only
a divine destination to visit on land, but also the ideal
place to enjoy an incredible scuba diving vacation. Wrecks
are plentiful and there are lots of shallow reefs.

Divers should be sure to visit The Pinnacles, considered one
of the best diving sites in the Caribbean. You'll also want
to visit the wreck of the Lesleen M., home to humongous crab
and lobster.

Dominica

Guests come to Dominica specifically to bask in the true
natural beauty of the island. One of the Lesser Antilles and
located between Guadalupe and Martinique, the island
attracts hundreds of eco-tourists each year.

Coral reefs are plentiful, there are a few wrecks, and
guests can even dive in two of the island's hot springs.
Subterranean volcanic activity makes the waters around
Dominica fascinating.

Don't miss Scott's Head, at the south end of the island,
where night diving is quite popular and pretty amazing.

The Florida Keys

For U.S. residents who prefer domestic travel, the Florida
Keys offer a number of fine diving opportunities. From end
to end, the waters around the keys are full of reefs that
give divers a close looks at dozens of varieties of fish.

The wreck of the British freighter Benwood, run aground
towards the end of World War II, is a terrific place to see
huge grunts and snappers as well as beautiful Atlantic
spadefish.

Italy

Italy's island of Sardinia, the 2nd largest in the
Mediterranean, is considered one of the premiere diving
locations in the world. Thanks to its temperate
Mediterranean climate, Sardinia is truly a year-round diving
mecca.

The sea boasts lots of caves and coral reefs and you'll see
fish here that you won't find on domestic or Caribbean
dives. As the Mediterranean was the site of many World War
II naval battles, wrecks are plentiful and varied.

Australia and New Zealand

A scuba diving trip to the Great Barrier Reef of Australia
is, of course, the dream of every avid diver. In fact, all
the waters around Australia and New Zealand are perfect for
diving.

The waters around the continent are both tropical and
temperate so marine life is quite varied. Dive shops are
plentiful so it's never hard to find a dive trip to fit your
needs.

Additional Destinations

Possible diving destinations are too numerous to mention.
Choose a part of the world you wish to visit and check out
local diving locations in that area.

Most of the islands of the Caribbean offer great diving
opportunities. More exotic destinations may include the
South Pacific, the Red Sea, Spain's Canary Islands, or the
coastal areas of Africa.

Certification

So you won't be disappointed, be sure that your diving
certification is up-to-date before you depart on a scuba
diving trip. Check the requirements for each destination to
be certain that you comply.
About the Author

Pat is one of the authors of Leisure Time Places, a weblog about vacations and travel destinations. Click here for more exciting vacation ideas.

Mother Earth Hosts Our Travels

2009-06-11T13:42:00.000-07:00

As conscious traveling Paupers we must always be concerned about our dear Mother Earth. If you think about it, you travel across her face, and She is the host to your journey; without Her we could not find the unfolding adventures that attract and feed our souls.

I have found some valuable resources for us to use and publisize, all of which are dedicated to responsible travel and care of our environment.

International Ecotourism Society

202-347-9203 www.ecotourism.org

A well-established nonprofit group which conducts research, publishes articles, provides consumer information, and has a directory of members around the world. With Rainforest Alliance, it recently started an ecotourism certification standards program.

Sustainable Travel International

720-273-2975 www.sustainabletravelinternational.org

Formed three years ago to bridge the gapbetween research and ocnsumer information and to promote sustainable development and eco-friendly travel. Offers a carbon offset program and last month started an eco-certification program that will follow standards laid out by the International Ecotourism Society.

Responsible Travel Handbook

www.travelearning.com

Created this year for the Educational Travel Conference meeting, this lengthy guide has a wealth of contributors and information. (Click on responsible tourism to download).

Lonely Planet Code Green: Trips of a Lifetime That Won\'t Cost The Earth

by Kelly Lorimer- Lonely pLanet Publications

The first \green travel\ book to be published by Lonely Planet includes dozens of \responsible travel experiences\ and provides traveler information on responsible and eco-travel. Lonely Planet also runs a discussion board on responsible travel at http://thorntree.lonelyplanet.com

Better World Club

866-238-1137 www.betterworldclub.com

The environmentally conscious alternative to the American Automobile Association, offering auto and bicycle road assistance, has resources on hybrid car rentals, green lodging, and carbon offsets.

Let us join and use these groups when planning our trips. By raising our level of consciousness and employing \'green\' tactics and travel itineraries we will, each in our own small way, be contributing to a healthier world where we act as stewards to the environment while discovering the rich and breathtaking rewards of travel.

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

Victor K. Pryles is the author of \Travel Cheap-Travel Well!- Confessions Of A Traveling Pauper avaialble at: www.paupertravel.com His daily blog is at: pauper-travel.blogspot.com/ He also offers a Free E-Course: \The Top 100 Travel Planning Websites\ at his website.

Information on Germany

2009-06-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

To start I would like to say that most people are right, Germany is a GREAT place to visit. I heard on the radio the other day that over 4 million Americans visited Germany in 2005 and to be honest it did not surprise me at all. With so many beautiful things to see and experience who wouldn\'t be interested?

Lets start off with the obvious attractions: Castles, German Beer and German Food.

Castles: Arguably the number one attraction of Germany. Castles are one of Germanys most historic prized possessions. With at least one Castle in every single decent sized town in Germany, you will always have a place to visit no matter where your travels in Germany take you. Most of these Castles have nice restaurants inside where you are given information on the historic value of the establishment, not to mention great food in my experience.

German Beer: Many say that German beer is the best in the world, because of this many German breweries are hesitant to give up their \'tricks of the trade\' many saying \'its in the water\'. Whether this is true or not Germany definitely has a reputation for providing delicious preservative free beer. The German government actually mandates that only a few main ingredients are to be added to the beer and no preservatives can be added, BY LAW.

German Food: I am sure that you all have either heard about or tried some of the typical German dishes, i.e. Schnitzel, Wursts (German sausage) and Spatzle, but what you may not have tried are some of the \'not so traditional\' but common dishes in Germany. If you are planning a trip to Germany I recommend going to any German restaurant and ordering the house special. Most restaurants, just like in the U.S., have a house special that is different from restaurant to restaurant and will usually be very delicious.

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

For more Information on Germany and German recipes please visit www.thegermantruth.com

The Hottest Tickets of 2006 Now Available With Superbreak

2009-06-09T15:40:00.000-07:00

Short Breaks are now on sale to a huge variety of summer Rock,
pop and sporting events. These include Westlife, Shirley Bassey
and James Blunt as well as The British Grand Prix, Ladies Day at
Royal Ascot and The Open Golf Championship. Superbreak
http://www.superbreak.com makes it both easy and affordable with
packages that include overnight hotel accommodation and tickets
to your chosen event.

Here are just a few of the leading concert and events packages -
many more are available. But hurry, they sell out fast!

WESTLIFE - from 119pp - There are still packages available to
see Westlife on their eagerly anticipated \'Face to Face 06\' tour
promoting their no 1 album. Westlife will perform some of their
classic favourites alongside songs from their new \'Face to Face\'
album. Dates available are 21 or 22 April in Manchester, 28
April in Sheffield, 5 or 6 May in Glasgow, 12 or 13 May in
Brighton, 14 May in Cardiff and 18 or 19 May at Wembly. A
package for the Glasgow gig costs 119 per person including one
night\'s b/b accommodation at the four star Glasgow Marriott
Hotel and a top priced ticket to see the gig at the SECC
Glasgow. Two share.

BRITISH GRAND PRIX, SILVERSTONE - 299pp - This year it takes
place on 9 and 10 June at Silverstone. The British Grand Prix is
a highlight of the F1 calendar and offers the chance to see the
world\'s greatest F1 drivers battle on one of the fastest tracks
in Europe. A package costs 299 per person including two night\'s
accommodation on a b/b basis at the three star Novotel Coventry,
two all day visits to the Grand Prix and return coach transfers.
Two share.

LADIES DAY AT ROYAL ASCOT - 109pp - Britain\'s most popular flat
race meeting returns home in 2006 with ladies day taking place
on 22 June. See the highest quality racing combined with high
fashion and the daily Royal procession. A package cost 109 per
person staying one night b/b at the four star Sheraton Heathrow
an all day admission ticket to Royal Ascot on Ladies Day and
return coach transfers. Two share.

JAMES BLUNT - from 149pp - See James Blunt live at 3 fantastic
locations across the UK in 2006. Two million copies of his
platinum debut album \'Back To Bedlam\' have already been sold,
don\'t miss out on this great live experience. He will play
Harewood House near Leeds on 30 June, Blenheim Palace in
Oxfordshire on 1 July and Leeds Castle in Kent on 2 July. A
package for the Blenheim Palace concert costs 149 per person
including one night\'s b/b at the three-star Heythrop Park Hotel
and including a seated ticket to the concert and coach
transfers. Two share.

Who are Superbreak.com?

Superbreak.com, incorporating Theatrebreak.com, is the internet
division of Superbreak Mini Holidays Limited, the market leader
for short breaks throughout the UK. Superbreak is part of
Holidaybreak plc, a publicly quoted leisure company whose share
price can be found in most major UK newspapers, or at
http://www.holidaybreak.com.

Based in York, England, Superbreak specialises in booking 2-5
star hotel accommodation throughout Britain for the leisure
traveller. Superbreak hold allocations of rooms at all hotels
and we can book up to and including the day of departure.

Travel Italy Italy's must see Art and Architecture

2009-06-08T19:01:00.000-07:00

#TITLE#Travel Chicago - Tour The Must See Sites Even Local Chicagoans
Visit!#/TITLE#

The allure of Chicago is completely understandable. Located in
the middle of the country amongst corn fields and pressed up
against Lake Michigan, this fast paced action packed city is
full of excitement. The winters are cold, but the summers are
hot and fun-filled. There is more to do in Chicago, than someone
could possibly complete in a lifetime.

But, for those travelers interested in seeing some of Chicago\'s
favorite sites through its residents\' eyes, please read on.

Signature Room at Hancock Tower - The top of the Hancock
Tower provides one of the most amazing views of Chicago around.
The Sears Tower may be taller, but the Hancock is closer to the
lake and offers views of the Sears Tower itself. Skip the
observation deck and instead make a trip to the Signature Room.
You might run into local Chicagoans during brunch when prices
are quite reasonable. Drinks are similarly priced to other
lounges, so a nightcap is always a fun option, but dinner will
set you back quite a bit. The restaurant is actually one floor
above the viewing deck so you can enjoy an amazing view while
eating and drinking. Location: Michigan Ave

Chicago Blues and Jazz - Chicago has long been well known
as home to some of the world\'s best Blues and Jazz musicians.
This fact became evident even to non-music lovers in the 70s and
80s with classic movies such as the Blues Brothers and Adventure
in Babysitting. For music fans, a trip to Chicago is not
complete without experiencing some good blues or jazz. There are
a wide variety of blues clubs located on the South Side and Jazz
clubs such as the Green Mill in uptown, which has said to be
frequented by Al Capone and other Chicago notables. But, if you
are in town, check out the Chicago Blues Fest held in early
June. Other summer music festivals include the Chicago Jazz
Festival, Chicago Gospel Music Festival, and more. Location: The
Green Mill is located at 4802 N. Broadway Ave.

Tru Restaurant - Charlie Trotter\'s restaurant has made a
name for itself throughout the United States and the world as
the best place for a multi-course tasting menu. But locals know
that the knew up and coming restaurant to beat is Tru\'s
restaurant. A four party visit will involve up to 12 courses,
with each member of the party receiving different selections.
Wow! One imagines how the cooks can possibly keep up, but
throughout your 3 hour meal, you will never be disappointed by
the wait staff or the chef. Location: 696 N. St. Clair St.

Chicago Museum Tour - Chicago has some of the best
museums in the country. The Art Institute has one of the most
amazing and large collections in the world. Take a walk through
the museum on a Tuesday, when admission is free (although
donations are always recommended) and if you are a movie fan
remember the walk by Ferris Bueller. But, the Art Institute
isn\'t the only great museum in Chicago. The Museum of Science
and Industry is a great museum where you can actually walk
through a sub, and of course the FieldMuseum home to the Sue the
largest T-Rex skeleton in the world.

Chicago Architecture Tour - Chicago\'s name in
architecture, began in the 1800s and continues today. If you
want to take a walk and see the great architecture of Chicago,
there is more than a day\'s worth of sites. You can begin with
famous buildings by Frank Lloyd Wright (check out the Unity
Temple at 875 Lake St) and Louis Sullivan (Visit his famous
Carson Pirie Scott flagship on State St). The Monadnock, and
Mies van der Rohe\'s Post office are also well worth a visit. For
some modern masterpieces, visit the Illinois Institute of
Technology\'s campus to see Mies\' Crown Hall, Rem Koolhaas\'
Campus Center, and Helmut Jahn\'s new Dorms. A visit to
Millennium Park is also worth a trip, where you can see one of
Gehry\'s latest and soon Renzo Piano\'s addition to the Art
Institute.

Chicago is home to some of the most city proud residents. And
there is no wonder why- there is so much to see and do in
Chicago! Check out the favorite tourist sites, but if you are
interested in seeing some of the local\'s favorite Chicago sites,
check out the list above and see some of what truly makes
Chicago special.

For more information and photos of Chicago, check out Chicago
Info and Chic
ago Sculptures

For more exciting destinations check out our Trip of
the Week Site

Following Links to Hawaii

2009-06-07T17:46:00.000-07:00

I've often used the Net for planning my personal and business trips. Trips to Australia, Hawaii, Seattle and Las Vegas, to name a few, are a cinch to plan on the Net... If you know how to go about it. The main problem with the Internet these days is that people often are overwhelmed by information overload.

Many destinations have many sites covering details on vacationing there and Hawaii is no exception. In fact, Hawaii, as a travel destination, is covered by numerous websites covering everything from activities to mountain biking, and snorkeling to luaus. So many sites and so little time.

Thought there are many activities, hotels and ways to get to Hawaii, they are limited and after a while you'll discover that many sites on the various topics cover the same ground. This is both good and bad: Good, in that you have numerous choices to choose from for look and feel and price. Let's face it, some sites are easier to navigate than others, while some also have better privacy statements and ease of contact. Also, competition generally keeps prices lower. The bad: Well, there's just so many choices and one can easily become overwhelmed.

My suggestion here is not to try and visit every Hawaii travel website on the planet, but to check out a few and stick with those you feel at ease with regarding navigation, product, pricing and privacy. There are many excellent Hawaii travel sites out there, so the first thing to do is to target how you want to get there, where you want to stay and what you actually plan to do once you are there. If you're like most visitors to the Islands these days, you'll arrive by air.

If you have frequent flyer accounts, you'll likely choose one of those airlines, otherwise, leave this open until you have completed some rudimentary pricing. The quickest, but not always the cheapest, is to book a non-stop flight. Cruises from the Mainland are available, but are quite expensive and are generally round trip, round-island cruises, with little time actually on the Islands.

As for your planned activities, once your list is made, I would highly recommend checking out activity agents and when satisfied, book your day tours, dinner cruises and submarine tours, etc. in advance. Why? Well, depending on the season--high or low--some of the more popular activities can book out quickly, leaving you high and dry looking for alternatives. This leads me to: Do you really want to be spending your valuable vacation time calling around to book activities to fill your days with fun, culture and adventure. Also, reserving your activities allows for better insight on itinerary and what your trip to paradise is going to cost. Valuable, if you're on a tight timetable or budget.

Where to stay... Well many areas have many styles of accommodation, from hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, to condos to luxury resorts. Oahu's noted for its tourist hotels and condos in Waikiki to luxury spa resorts. Maui, Kauai and Hawaii have their fair share of luxury resorts and bed and breakfasts.

Once you have your rough general itinerary, it's now time to search using appropriate terms, such as hawaii vacation, fun things to do in hawaii and hawaii airfare, etc. Line up 3 to 5 good sites for each topic--some sites will cover them all--and then start clicking. Explore each site to sort out the better from the good and keep your eyes open for any travel, accommodation or activity options you may have missed when composing your itinerary. Add these items to your list and keep clicking.

After spending quality time with your long list, it's now time to decide which one(s) you feel most at ease with. These are the ones you should use for planning and booking your vacation necessities. If unsure about a few, send off a question by email or phone. You can tell a lot about a company on how they respond, if they respond. Obviously, if some don't respond or respond inappropriately, drop them from your list... You don't need the aggravation.

Now, get serious about planning and booking your itinerary. If you have a problem offering your credit card via the Net, many agents can accept same via telephone. Personally, given the pre-planning above, I, have never had a problem and I've ordered thousands of dollars of stuff via the Internet with no problems whatsoever. Given my life in general, I doubt that this has anything to do with luck. Once done, you'll have a great sense of accomplishment and very likely, a fantastic vacation in paradise. So, get clicking and planning and before you know it, you will have followed all your favorite links to Hawaii... Aloha!

About the Author

Dave Davis is a long-time freelance writer and editor who loves to travel and learn about new destinations. His favorite: Hawaii. Go to http://www.TraveltoHawaiiReviewed.com to check out more resources and information of vacationing in Hawaii. Copyright 2005 - D3 Communications, Inc. All rights reserved.

Scenic Train Rides Around The World

2009-06-06T18:40:00.000-07:00

I\'m not sure why on scenic train rides you can have a beer, but you can\'t on a bus. In any case, this is one of the reasons to take a train ride. Another reason is that they go where the roads don\'t, so you\'ll see scenery you miss when driving. Trains don\'t have to stop at traffic lights, and you can get up and walk around. Finally, trains are relaxing for all the reasons above AND the rythym of the rails.

Amtrak has scenic sections, and there are also numerous dinner trains operating around the United States now. However, the most scenic train rides are the classics. Below are a few to whet your appetite.

The Silverton-Durango Narrow Gage

I first caught this train far from any road. I was in the Weminuche Wilderness Area, next to a footbridge over the Animas river, where they stop if backpackers there flag them down. More recently, my wife and I took the train from Silverton to Durango. Wherever you catch this train, it will be an experience you won\'t forget.

It is a classic steam locomotive that goes through Colorado\'s San Juan Mountains, along the Animas river. At times you\'ll look out the window, over the edge, to the water hundreds of feet below. In Silverton you can eat good food, buy souvenirs, and see an old-west mining town that hasn\'t much with time.

La Nariz Del Diablo

Train rides on this line, which goes from Riobamba to Alausi, Ecuador, are scenic and adventurous. On our recent trip, my wife stayed inside, but I rode on the roof for the first half of the ride. Despite the occasional rain, there were twenty other travelers up there. I highly recommend you pay the dollar to rent a pillow to sit on. Your final destination is a valley with a view of a rock formation high above, called \La Nariz Del Diablo,\ or \The Devil\'s Nose.\

Be careful of tree branches if you\'re on the roof, and be prepared for a five-hour ride. It starts in downtown Riobamba, in the highlands of the central Andes Mountains. You\'ll travel through \cloud forests\ and finally down to a much warmer climate. Interestingly, the train descends some streches of track caboose-first. There\'s a lunch stop in one of the small mountain towns. When we took the train (May 2004), it was limited to 40 passengers, and tickets sold out quickly.

Agawa Canyon Railroad

One of the more scenic train rides in the north, starts and ends in Sault Saint Marie, Ontario, Canada, just over the border from Sault Saint Marie, Michigan. It\'s an all-day trip that goes through a rocky and heavily-wooded wilderness, along the Agawa River, to Agawa Canyon. At the canyon, you can have a picnic in a beautiful meadow, or just relax and enjoy the scenery, before reboarding for the return trip.

Autumn, when the maples have all changed color, is the most beautiful time to take the train. It\'s also the most difficult time to get tickets, so plan far ahead. The route is also run as the scenic \Snow Train,\ in winter.

The Thunder Mountain Line

Thunder Mountain Line has scenic train rides that take several routes in Idaho, starting from Horseshoe Bend and Cascade. Depending on the route you choose, you\'ll travel through dramatic narrow canyons, sagebrush-covered hills, mountain meadows, or pristine evergreen forests. The tracks follow the mountain trails settlers used a hundred years before. You may see deer, fox, elk, blue herons, osprey, and bald eagles. Rides vary from three to five hours, depending on the route.

Amtrak\'s Scenic Train Rides

The California Zephyr, Amtrak\'s train from Chicago to San Francisco, passes through the Rocky Mountains and the more beautiful (in my opinion) Sierra Nevadas. The Coast Starlight goes from Seattle to Los Angeles, with views of snow-covered mountains, thick forests, and long stretches of Pacific Ocean shoreline. Amtrak\'s Auto Train is a unique scenic train ride that allows you to take your car with you from Lorton, Viginia, to Florida.

Steve Gillman hit the road at sixteen, and traveled the U.S. and Mexico alone at 17. Now 40, he travels with his wife Ana, whom he met in Ecuador. To read their stories, tips and travel information, visit: http://www.EverythingAboutTravel.com

Journeys through Asturias greenest Spain

2009-06-05T19:40:00.000-07:00

The Road Goes Ever On and OnDown to the Door Where It Began. So wrote J.R.R. Tolkien, creator of The Lord Of the Rings. My family lives in Middle-Earth; around here it's called Asturias. Surrounded by green mountains and rolling hills, the landscape bears strong resemblance to the descriptions found in Tolkien's works. Located on the north coast of Spain, Asturias is known for being fresh, temperate and green. Very green. Spaniards call it Paraiso Natural, a 'Natural Paradise'. Wandering around the countryside here, I half expect to see elves, trolls, and halflings- and I must say some folk around here do indeed resemble hobbits, or characters out of a children's story. Very quaint and picturesque.

As I go walking around this land, the thought of roads and ways 'going ever on' becomes reality. Every village is connected to the surrounding fields and woods by a network of linking cowpaths, which ultimately reach the next set of paths, and so on. Tolkien was right, all roads are one, like a river with many branches. That's what I love most about the walking (or running or biking or horseback or however you choose); every time is different, because after 4 years of exploring here I still find new ways, paths I have yet to tread, or new connections with the old ones. This is real magic.

The environment here is similar to that of lower Britain, to Atlantic France. But much softer in climate, warmer and sunnier (at times). The coastal north of Spain is separated from the rest of the peninsula by a chain of mountains, the Cantabric mountain range. This blocks out the southern heat, and forms a southern border to the great Maritime Arc of North-West Europe. This is about as far south one can go and still be in Northern Europe, geographically. Culturally is another story, because many different people have come through this land at one time or another. The Celtic influence is strong; bagpipes and wooden shoes are commonplace. So are castanyets (Arabic finger cymbals), Gypsy sounds from Andalucia (South Spain), and olive oil from the Mediterranean. Asturias is certainly part of Spain, only it lies up north, beyond a barrier of high mountains
(the tallest peak is the third-highest in Europe) that have historically blocked out much of the rest of the country. The mountains are hard to get over, but these days tunnels drilled through work well, what with the freeway and alla high speed train line is due at some point in the future, so for now we must content ourselves with standard Eurorail. There is an international airport as well. By car it's 4 hours to Madrid, and about 3 hours to the border with France. Asturias is an average 50 miles (90 km) wide, and a debatable 150 miles long (depending how you mark it).

Given the climate, this is too far north for much wine-making, but apple trees grow in abundance, so alcoholic cider is the local drink. And it is renowned throughout Spain, now gaining popularity abroad as well. The cider is thin and vinegary, best for clearing the digestion, although there is also a sweet version, without alcohol. I like it after a nice run through the hills, which brings us back to the paths. When one goes out 'trekking' it will soon be noticed that there are many many trees, including the apple. Chestnut, oak, sycamore, ash, beech, walnut, hazel, firs, and eucalyptuswhich is an import that took root in the last century. There are also some palms, especially closer to the coast (another import of course). In orchards or standing alone there are cherry, pear, apple, plum, fig, peach, besides a multitude of berry bushes- blackberry, currant, raspberry, european blueberry. A favorite pastime when out and about is stopping to enjoy some of nature's gifts, a welcome refreshment on a long hike.

It bears repeating that although this is a Northern clime, Asturias is far enough south to support a variety of flora; in addition to the trees named above there are oranges and lemons that do quite well, as long as they are in a good spot, and kiwis (must have come with the eucalyptus). As with real estate, everything is 'location, location'. A protected hill-side facing south is perfect for flora that need the heat. Which is also a good spot for tomatoes, peppers, or melons. There many gardens here, both floral and vegetable. Sometimes they pop up in surprising places, far from any house, along side some path with stone walls and thick hedges. Rows of corn, with beans climbing the stalks; potatoes and varied greens; different vegetables and herbs; produce and plenty in season. A careful eye will spot wild herbs when moving about the land: mint, thyme, marjoram, rosemarysome of these have been planted, and grown wild, others happen on their own. Watch out for stinging nettles, but at least there is no poison ivy!

I have learned something about grazing animals from all this. Even regular milk cows have a natural environment (outside of feed-lots and stalls). Sometimes during a walk a clearing in the woods will appear, and behold! Cows grazing among the trees and in the meadows. They actually like wandering about, feeding off the land, winding in and out among the trees, clambering up hill-sides, getting a cool drink from the creek, relaxing in the shadejust like humans! Deer are also found, and it is quite common to encounter these. There is a smaller kind and a larger more standard variety (bushy white tails) and these will graze where they find pasture, or move around the woods. Wild boar are plentiful, and hunting for these and the deer are common. Some areas have been designated 'hunting zones', as well as the 'fishing zones'. This is a trout and salmon
area; the coast is of course known for the variety and abundance of marine life. In the higher mountains there are bear and wolves, but so far I have stuck more to the
'in- between' places, away from the coast and yet below the heights. We are here surrounded by lower mountains, yet impressive. These provide a plethora of ways to go, from hilly countryside to higher climbs, where the trees thin out and goats pasture. The autochthonous breed of cow (usually for meat) is the 'Asturian of the Mountains' which half resembles a goat in it's lanky toughness, narrow head with goatish horns, and the ability to scramble over rocky mountain-sides with the best of them. These days, with a declining human population, and a vanishing tradition of cowherding, people are putting a variety of grazing animals out to pasture, if only to keep the grass down and maintain the fields. Sheep, goats, horses, donkeys, whatever will eat the prairie- we know a family that keeps ostriches!

One of the best routes to take in this particular area is called Fuensanta, which takes its name from the famous springwater found there. This water is bottled and sold throughout Europe, and the natural beauty and freshness of the place tells why. Here is a gorge which rises steeply into the mountains, reaching a series of waterfalls which are the source for all this wetness. Fill your bottles up at the beginning of the path (there is a public fountain) and walk the 6 mile (10 km) loop, following the rise of the land to the falls and then descending again. Make sure you brought some empty bottles in the car so you can fill them up for drinking at home.

Yes, we live in Middle-Earth. I know this to be true when on an early morning the mist hangs over the valleys and dales between hills, when the rolling fields rise to meet the looming mountains at sunset, when the stars shine clear and bright in the night-sky. The view from a highpoint shows the landscape dotted with houses, fields, grazing animals, gardens, fruit trees, and the wooded slopes of the mountains surround valleys of hills. There is land to plow and woods to walk and waters to swim. The sea is less than an hour away from the ski-slopes on high mountains, whose peaks are snowy most of the year and tower in the distance. This land is indeed a Natural Paradise.

J Michael
www.waytospain.com

About the Author

Email: greenspain@ziplip.com
Website: http://www.waytospain.com
Occupations/Activities: Travel (nature/outdoor), Accommodation (rural
Location: Asturias, Spain
WAYTOSPAIN offers eco-tours and Spanish language classes in Asturias for small private groups. WAYTOSPAIN follows the principles of responsible travel and sustainable tourism.

Lake Como Italy's Finest Lake

2009-06-04T20:41:00.000-07:00

At the base of the Alps to the west and not far from the Dolomites to the east, the Italian lake district has numerous lakes, but only two of any size that are frequented by tourists to any degree. These are Maggiore, with Locarno at its northwestern tip and Como the larger of the two and by almost any tourist standard, the more scenic of the two.

Lake Como (Lago di Como) stretches from the north to its southern limit at the city of Como on its longest branch - just under a hundred miles and about sixty miles on the shorter eastern arm. Como is the lake to visit if you have a limited number of days in Italy and want to see all you can fit in. Europeans and southern Italians who can afford it have long summered in the Lakes region. The shores are populated with pink villas of all shapes and sizes, hotels grand and small, quaint little villages, from the city of Como north to Menaggio.

If you\'re driving and approaching Lake Como from the north, perhaps from St. Moritz or Innsbruck, an excellent place to stop is Varenna. It\'s on the east side of the widest part of the lake where it splits into two branches and forms a near perfect triangle with Bellagio at the centre of the fork and Menaggio on the west side of the lake.

So park your car, check into your hotel or B and B for two or three days and soak up some Italian small town atmosphere. Varenna is actually on the quieter side of the lake, with a small harbour, a romantic promenade, narrow lanes and its own villa. There\'s benches along the promenade, so bring along something to munch on, watch the lovers walking up and down the \passerella\ (lakeside walk) at dusk and watch the ferries and ubiquitous motorboats (and regrettably speed boats too) churning up and down the lake.

Next day, take a ferry south to Bellagio. Go anywhere you want around Lake Como, but go by ferry. There\'s lots of them, they\'re not that expensive and it really adds to your holiday here. Driving along the shores of Como is just not worth it. It\'s one small town after another, so most of the time you crawl along at 10-20 mph. And you can see very little of the lake, what you do see is a lot of fences, high walls, etc. and signs in many languages that all translate into one phrase: \Keep Out!\ It was that way the first time I came here in 1960-61 and it has only gotten worse. Word from the wise whether you come by car, or by train from Milano, travel by ferry after you get here.

Bellagio, the \Pearl of the Lake\ is a combination of class, Old World elegance and affluence. Lots of shops and stalls, selling high priced items for the most part. If you must buy something, shop up the hill where the locals shop. Some lovely lakeside cafes. As I was once told \A nice place to see, an expensive place to be\.

When you have tired of Bellagio, then take the ferry to Menaggio. This puts you across the lake and just a short ferry ride back to your base in Varenna. It\'s also only eight miles as the crow flies from Lugano on the Swiss border. Menaggio is a lower priced smaller edition of Bellagio and my favorite of the two. Lake Como is too dirty to swim in but if you are in the mood to take a dip, Menaggio has a nice public pool. Take advantage of it, good public pools are few and far between in most parts of Italy.

If you can spend another day in this area, then next day take the ferry again to Bellagio, but stay on it (or change to another - it depends on the schedule) and get off across the lake at Tremezzo. If you are interested in Grand Hotels, this is the spot. The rich and famous have been staying here for two centuries, even Best Western is here, but where we want to go is the Villa Carlotta.

Built by a Marquis in the eighteenth century, later modified by a Count, with gardens designed by several Dukes. you get the picture; here you walk among the ghosts of royalty. There\'s a Botanical Garden well worth the visit by itself, but in addition there is a museum with marble statuary, famous paintings and a large collection of seventeenth, eighteenth and nineteenth century furniture. Some parts of the Villa itself have been open in the past to guided tours, mostly at the whim of whoever is the current owners and how badly they need the money for upkeep. It\'s hard to do this place justice with only word pictures. The Villa itself is an imposing building fronted by a series of ivy-draped marble colonnades facing onto the lake.

So there you have it, a fine three day restful holiday on one small section of Lake Como. Enjoy!

Oh and by the way, if you see George Clooney relaxing at his villa south of Bellagio on the west side of the lake, give him a wave for me.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Tourism

Galiano Getaway

2009-06-03T21:41:00.001-07:00

With much anticipation, we headed out for our adventure to one of our favourite islands. We were downing our breakfast at the terminal when the call to board the ferry came. We headed out to our car where the line was already starting to move. Perfect timing or blind luck? We were on our way.

The weather was perfect and the water was calm for our trip through the Southern Gulf Islands to Galiano Island. The Queen of Cumberland, a small inter-island ferry, navigated the narrow passage past Peers Island, an island community just opposite the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal. From the ferry we could see the viewpoints on the island jewels that make up the Southern Gulf Islands. Wharburton-Pike on Saturna, Bold Bluff on Pender, the spectacular Cliff of Mount Maxwell on Salt Spring, and the Bluffs on Galiano make up the view points where you can see most of the Southern Gulf Islands and the San Juan Islands in the United States.

Often on ferry crossings Killer Whales (Orcas) pass nearby or you can see porpoise feeding in Haro Strait. The Ferry passed by Ruckles Provincial Park on Salt Spring Island. The green grassy slopes are a great place to camp. As the ferry pulled into Sturdies Bay, we had to wait momentarily as the ferry from Vancouver backed out into Active Pass. Active Pass - between Mayne and Galiano - is truly one of the most beautiful passages I have ever travelled. On one trip through the pass, we witnessed a transient Killer Whale devouring a sea lion within inches of the Ferry. It was a glimpse of raw nature that few get to see.

From the ferry terminal it was a short drive to the Woodstone Country Inn, our host for day one on Galiano. The Inn sits in a pastoral setting surrounded by lush green farmland. As you walk into the Inn you constantly realize you are in a special place. The architecture is elegant and the rooms are spacious. Gail Nielsen-Pich, the proprietor, greeted us warmly. She made us feel right at home and invited us to tea and the goodies she makes available in the lounge later in the afternoon.

Our room was spacious with a huge bed and sitting area with a fireplace. The West wall was all windows and looks over the pastures to the mountains in the distance. We had a private deck with a beautiful view of the valley.

We spent the afternoon exploring the south end of Galiano and visited a number of beaches, took in the spectacular views from the Bluffs and then drove to Retreat Cove where we explored a fascinating sandstone cave etched into the sandstone shoreline. Gail recommended the Market Caf for lunch and it was excellent. If you visit the caf, be sure to check out the one-of-a-kind washroom. Then, it was back to Woodstone for tea and goodies. Back in our room we enjoyed a glass of Australian Charaz and relaxed soaking up the view of the valley.

Dinner was exquisite. Potato soup with truffle oil, cucumber salad, and beef tenderloin that was to-die-for. The meal was not complete until we tasted Gail\'s incredible bread pudding, undoubtedly the best bread pudding in the world. See you at breakfast!

Ron Kirstein is the owner of a Canadian Travel & Tourism Web site (since 1995). Ron has traveled the length and breadth of Vancouver Island BC Canada in search of adventures; see http://tourismmall.victoria.bc.ca/travelmagazine

Record Numbers Set To Travel This Holiday

2009-06-02T22:41:00.001-07:00

Linknet Travel News Digest - December 21, 2005 - Travel may be
expensive this time of year, but the AAA is still predicting
this will be a record year for travel in the U.S.

The organization estimates that 63.5 million Americans will
journey 50 miles or more from home for either Christmas or New
Year's. This is up 1.7 percent from last year. Approximately 81
percent will travel by automobile.

Travel plans are aided this year by the calendar. With both
Christmas and New Year's Day falling on Sunday, that makes for
two long weekends, and for many people, an entire week of
holiday revelling.

==>Travel Websites Still Offering Deals

If you've waited till the last minute to make your winter or
holiday travel arrangements, there may still be deals to have --
in spite of the fact that most travel sites are usually pretty
pricey this time of year.

Rather than fly planes with empty seats, the major airlines will
usually turn these seats over to online ticket sellers. Because
you are dealing with relatively small numbers of empty seats,
the deals can disappear quickly. A deal you find in the morning
may not be around in the afternoon.

Some sites where you can find deals: http://Priceline.com, http://Cheaptickets.com, and http://Hotwire.com

Be prepared to act quickly, and take what you get. The real
cheap tickets often have a one or two day stay overs, and are
non-refundable.

==>Tips for Travelling with Children

Why not use some of that idle travel time to pack in some
learning activities for the kids. Here are some tips for parents
who want to engage their children in learning, creating, and
exploring.

1. Take a sketch pad along. Create a family memory book with
your children. Share family holiday memories and illustrate them
in the book..

2. Bring along some blank note paper or note cards, and help
your child create some original greeting cards. Illustrate them
with original drawings, and add short original verses.

3. Encourage reading during travel. Bring some of your
children's favorite books and encourage your children to read.
Discuss the topics before you leave and let the kids help choose
the topics.

4. Instead of videos or DVDs, why not buy a talking book
(recorded version of a classic) and play that while you travel.

==>Passports Required for Caribbean Destinations in New Year

The North Port Sun Herald reports that if you are travelling to
the Caribbean, Bermuda, Central or South America, you will need
a passport as of January 1, 2006.

The passport is not required by the destination countries. It is
required to get back into the U.S. These new measures have been
instituted in what is called the Western Hemisphere Travel
Initiative, in order to strengthen border security. Plans also
call for passports required for travel to and from Mexico and
Canada by January 2007, although this policy is currently under
review.

Advice for the Theme Park Weary

2009-06-01T23:46:00.000-07:00

When you just can\'t take another day at the theme parks on your
Orlando vacation consider these suggestions:

Book a Spa Treatment - What better way to soothe fragile nerves
and sore feet than a session at one of Orlando\'s resort spas. On
Disney property there\'s the Grand Floridian as well as the
Saratoga Springs Spa where one of their luxurious treatments are
a perfect addition to your vacation. Off property you can\'t do
any better than the ultra luxurious Ritz-Carlton Spa or the
Gaylord Palms Canyon Ranch Spa. Those staying at a Universal
Resort should consider an exotic Javanese treatment at the
Mandara Spa at Portofino Bay Hotel.

Relax At Your Resort\'s Pool - Orlando\'s resort pools are
justifiably renowned for their spectacular theming. Disney
offers some of the best, particularly Stormalong Bay at the
Yacht and Beach Club, a 3-acre mini waterpark, or the boulder
lined beauty at the Wilderness Lodge featuring waterfalls and
its very own geyser. Off property, the Hyatt Regency Grand
Cypress\' fantasyland pool is cooled by twelve waterfalls and at
the JW Marriott\'s \Lazy River\ you can float to your heart\'s
content. And at Universal Orlando\'s Hard Rock Hotel is the
coolest (and I don\'t just mean the water temperature) pool
around with an underwater sound system, sand beach, and poolside
cabanas.

Spend Time On Disney\'s Waterways - Disney has miles of lakes and
lagoons to explore. You\'ll find that most Disney resorts have a
marina where many types of watercraft are available for hire.
Sailboats, pontoon and canopy boats, Sea Raycers, even a 48-foot
yacht. Take your pick. Perhaps the biggest bang for your buck is
to be had at the Contemporary Resort where in addition to the
above you\'ll also find parasailing, waterskiing, tubing, and
wakeboarding on beautiful Bay Lake.

Cool Off at a Disney Waterpark - Disney has two wonderful
waterparks: Blizzard Beach, a perfect place for daredevils, and
Typhoon Lagoon where you\'ll find a whopper of a surf pool along
with tamer attractions. Spend your day hopping from one crazy
waterslide to another or just kick back and relax on a lounge
chair for the afternoon.

Shop Till You Drop in The Mall at Millenia - For one of
Orlando\'s best shopping experiences head to this fabulous new
mall just minutes from Universal Orlando. Here you\'ll find only
the best with stores such as Neiman Marcus, Gucci, Jimmy Choo,
Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany. But fair warning: this trip could
end up costing a pretty penny. Those with great taste but
thriftier intentions will love the Orlando Premium Outlets Mall
located just across I-4 from Downtown Disney where designer
outlet stores such as Hugo Boss, Armani, Escada, Ermenegildo
Zegna, and Burberry won\'t break the bank.

Head to Downtown Disney - For a change of pace there\'s Downtown
Disney. Here you\'ll find over 70 shops, restaurants, and
nightclubs plus a 24-screen theater, Disney Quest with five
floors of virtual games and adventures, even a Cirque du Soleil.
Adults will want to pick a great restaurant for dinner like
Wolfgang Puck or Portofino Yacht Club and then head to Pleasure
Island to party down until the wee hours of the morning.

Swim With a Dolphin - Perhaps the most unusual experience in
Orlando is Discovery Cove. Spend up close and personal time with
your very own dolphin friend, snorkel with tropical fish and
rays, even feed birds right out of your hand. Then relax on a
sandy beach with little or no crowds. Definitely a day to be
remembered.

Make the Rounds Resort Hopping - Spend a few hours ogling at
Disney\'s wonderfully themed resorts. And best of all, it doesn\'t
cost a thing. Board the monorail at the Ticket and
Transportation Center and hop off at each of the three Magic
Kingdom resorts. First the Polynesian, a tropical wonderland,
then the Grand Floridian, Disney\'s flagship resort, and lastly
the Contemporary where you\'ll enjoy the Grand Concourse with the
monorail silently gliding overhead. Out back you can catch a
boat to the Wilderness Lodge, Disney\'s most beautiful resort
modeled after an early 1900s national park lodge. Then catch a
boat to the Magic Kingdom and a ferry to the TTC where you
started. It\'s a grand circle that can\'t be beat.

Online Hotel Booking for London

2009-06-01T00:41:00.001-07:00

London is one of the best tourist destinations in the world.
It's often remarked by visitors to the West End that there seems
to be a lack of churches in London: this is because they are
crammed into the City, far too many to serve today's atheistic
populace (Mammon is better served with banks - at the latest
survey fewer than one million believers attend church on a
regular basis in the whole of England) and some are relegated to
monuments or the private chapels of the guilds. A number of
excellent parks are there to visit for the travelers visiting
London in United Kingdom.

In virtually all areas, walking on the grass, picnicking and
ball games are permitted. However, some Royal Parks close at
night and are patrolled by Parks Police. Skating and bicycling
are prohibited in most areas of most parks, Regent's Park,
Holland Park, Coram's Fields, Battersea Park, Hampstead Heath,
Blackheath and Greenwich Park, It rolls southward onto
Blackheath, a table of green, sadly crossed by the main road to
Dover (it was once a favourite of highwaymen). Tube: Cutty Sark
(Docklands) Train to Greenwich or Blackheath from Charing Cross,
Waterloo or London Bridge)

It is said that the accommodation is always best in London UK.
Compare the price with other hotels in London. Offers 80%
discounted rates for London hotels. Book online & save money.
For any hotel booking in London My-London-hotels.com is the
right choice because this facilitates you to book hotel online
as per your choice and requirement & budget. Visit the site and
check out the hotels available with discounted prices.

Egypt resorts and attractions

2009-05-31T01:41:00.001-07:00

If you make a decision to spend your vacation in Egypt, usually you have a choice of two sea resorts - Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh. They both are very popular, but Hurghada is situated in African continent while Sharm El Sheikh lies on Sinai peninsula.

About 30 years ago Hurghada was just a simple fishing village. But now, with it's a resort with crystal clear water, untouched reefs. It has become one of the best Egyptian tourist destinations. A significant part of its fame Hurghada gained as one of the best diving centres of the world. Like all oriental cities Hurghada make living out of trade, so if when you walk along the city, be ready to beat off the pressing offers of the sellers, deserving to make you buy their souvenirs. There are some more entertainments except shopping and diving in Hurghada. You can make a jeep trip to a desert, visit Bedouin's village there; you can see corals and some natural preserves. Hurghada is also has aqua-park. Fishing is one of the popular tourist's activities in Hurghada too. Today, Hurghada is known as a party town, particularly among Europeans. Locals and others will tell you that life begins at night in Hurghada, with the many, many clubs.

The best time to visit Hurghada is October-November. In winter there are strong winds and it becomes dark very early.

When you are in Hurghada don't miss the chance to see one of the most outstanding monuments of Egypt history - Luxor and the Valley of the King. Pharaoh's tombs and ancient temples are worth visiting.

Sharm el-Sheikh is one of the most accessible and developed tourist resort communities on the Sinai peninsula. All around are Bedouins, colorful tents, mountains and sea. Na'ama Beach is one of the center of the tourist activities. Located just north of Sharm, this area is developing into a resort town of its own. For those who like shopping, the Sharm El-Sheikh mall provides shops with both foreign and local products, including jewelry, leather goods, clothing, pottery and books. Nobody leaves Sharm el-Sheikh without several useless but very pleasant souvenirs. Like Hurghada, Sharm el-Sheikh is famous for diving too, but it has more diversity in corals.

Those, who choose Sharm el-Sheikh also has opportunity to watch the attraction of Sinai peninsula - The Monastery of St Catherine, Mount Sinai (or Mountain of Moses), Pharaoh's Island and Salah El Din Citadel, Nabq National Park, Ras Abu Galum National Park and so-called 'Coloured Canyon'.

The last but not the least of the Egypt must-sees is Cairo with its pyramids. From either Hurghada or Sharm El-Sheikh it will be a long trip, but you will never regret it!

When you going to Egypt, be aware that 3-star hotels in Egypt have nothing to do with 3-star hotels in Europe. So, it's better to choose 4 or 5 star hotel. Probably it saves you from many inconveniences. Often, the large hotels have zoos, playgrounds, discos, bars, a number of pools and even small theaters. So, may be you will to want to leave your hotel.

Anyway, a trip to Egypt promises to be exotic and interesting expierence.

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

For booking a hotel in any part of the world, please, go to www.hotelsrates.net

Big Savings on Gas While you Travel!

2009-05-30T02:42:00.000-07:00

Gas prices are soaring! This has resulted in elevated travel expenses. If you travel by car, YOU have some control over the costs.

Here are some ways to save money on gas:

* Switch to synthetic motor oil. It reduces engine friction and may make your car a little less ravenous at the gas station. (There are brands available claiming 5%-20% increases in fuel economy.)

* Use the manufacturer\'s recommended grade of oil. Manufacturer specs are based on what is best for your specific vehicle.

* Buy gas with the recommended octane rating. Premium can actually be detrimental to many engines.

* Fill up during the coolest times of day. You get more gas in each gallon, because liquids expand in the heat. The pumps are measuring gallons, not weight.

* Make sure that the gas cap is tight after you fill up. Gas evaporates easily - you can lose an appreciable amount through an improperly seated cap.

* Check your tires before your holiday and inflate them to the manufacturer\'s recommendations. Underinflated tires create drag and increase gas consumption. Always carry a tire gauge in your glove compartment.

* Never drive on bald tires! Besides being unsafe, they also increase fuel consumption.

* Don\'t leave your engine idling for long periods of time. This includes pre-warming - one minute is all you need. Start off slowly, then use normal speeds after a couple of minutes.

* Don\'t continually start and stop your engine. Each start burns about the same amount of gas as one minute of idle time.

* Drive the speed limit on highways - speeding devours gas. Activate your cruise control whenever possible, and when cruise is not engaged remember the \'egg\' trick: drive like you have a raw egg between the floorboards and the gas pedal.

* Stop lights in cities are usually set to synchronize with the posted speed limit. Drive the speed limit and you are more likely to hit a long series of green lights. Stopping at red lights increases idle time and gas consumption.

* Drive in a way that entails minimal use of the brakes.

* Don\'t pack more than you need. The more weight you carry, the more gas you use.

* Decrease wind resistance. A car caked with mud, snow, or ice will cause drag and burn more gas than a sleek, clean vehicle.

* Don\'t use the air conditioner unless necessary. Vehicle air conditioners increase fuel consumption.

* Pamper your vehicle by ensuring that it goes in for regular tune-ups and maintenance. Slight adjustments can mean dramatic fuel savings. Ask the maintenance people to add fuel injector cleaner whenever the oil is changed.

* Some communities have websites that post fuel prices at local gas stations. Do your research before you leave to find out where the cheapest stations are. Use common sense: driving too far out of your way will gobble up more gas than you save. Try gasbuddy.com (USA and Canada) and your favorite search engines.

* If you own a gas guzzler, try trading with a relative or neighbor for a smaller vehicle while you vacation. (Make sure that insurance policies on both vehicles are in order first.)

* Use your feet! Once you get to your destination, walk whenever possible. Walking is how you really get to know an area.

Save money, save the environment - and have more cash to spend on your vacation!

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

Kathy Steinemann is a webmaster who writes for:

* 111 Travel Directory

* 1000+ Travel Tips

* Adult Escapes

Six good reasons to take a family vacation.

2009-05-29T03:41:00.001-07:00

When I was young, family vacations with my parents consisted of driving for a week from place to place in a hot stifling car. My parents had the knack of picking the hottest week of the summer to do so. In spite of that, we still had fun, managed to find interesting sites to explore and those are the memories that I still have.

I discovered the joy of travel to far reaching destinations on my own by the time I turned 18. Jumping on a plane and heading off to Brazil, Europe or cruising the Caribbean, has turned into a life long passion my whole family now enjoys with me.

Family vacations have evolved over the years. There have never been more choices, more variety and more options available for family vacations as there is today. Especially since 9/11, the focus on family and community and played a strong role in our society. The travel industry has noticed and has geared up for families. From all-inclusive vacation packages and cruises, which are equipped with kids clubs and special activities: to resorts that supply a nanny for your stay, it's never been a better time for families to travel.

Still not sure? Here are just a few of the benefits of taking a family vacation:

1. The family that plays together, stays together.....

It is a time to get away from it all. Away from work, the phone calls, the kid's activities, the daily to do list. This is a great opportunity to spend time as a family and get to know each other. Go for a hike, build a sandcastle, explore a museum. There is more time to talk and spend time together without the daily distractions.

2. Teach your children well....

Travel is an excellent learning tool for kids. They can have the opportunity to learn about things first hand they may have learned in school, read about or saw on TV. Any destination can offer this learning experience whether it is a few hours drive away from you home or in Europe. Family vacations will teach children about different cultures, food, history, geography, climate, environment and so much more. The best part is that it's way more fun for them then learning it through homework!

3. New experiences they will never forget.....

Family vacations provide a whole new venue for experiences that your kids never would have had otherwise. We took a family cruise last winter, and it was my 9-year-old son's first cruise. We told him all about the ship and showed him pictures but I don't think he could quite grasp what it was really going to be like. We landed in Fort Lauderdale and as we were driving to the port, we could see our ship in the distance. He was excited but still very nonchalant. Once we got to the port and pulled up alongside the ship, he looked up and up and up at the enormous ship, his mouth dropped open and he gasped in amazement. That reaction was worth the price of the whole trip and is something I know our family will always remember.

4. Life is an adventure, especially on vacation....

Even if you are not particularly brave there are still many ways to experience the adventures that lie in every corner of our planet. It may be as simple as going to the zoo at your destination and seeing the animals that are local to that habitat or taking a jungle tour though the Amazon. There is so much to see and do, pick the adventures that appeal to your family and do them together.

5. You kids won't be kids forever....

Doesn't seem like yesterday that the teenager that just borrowed your car, was in diapers and day-care? Most parents agree that time seems to fly by quickly and those babies are grown before you know it. There will come a time that your children will have lives of their own and sad as it may seem, spending time with Mom and Dad will not be anywhere near the top of their list. Take the time for a family vacation while they still want your company.

6. Time to kick back and relax......

Now this part is important. One of the main reasons to take a vacation is to get some rest and recharge. It is important for everyone so don't over do it. Try and schedule an active day followed by a more relaxing day. It's hard to do in some destinations where there is so much to see and do like Disney World, but trust me. The kids will be less tired and cranky and it will give you a reason to come back to the destination again!

I know this all sounds so good, it makes you want to book that trip you've been putting off doesn't it? Well, I will add in a dose of reality here and include a few negatives. There are some natural stresses to travelling. Planes get delayed, kids get cranky, families can have too much of a good thing and get on each other's nerves. The list can go on, but don't let that discourage you, the advantages are too numerous to ignore.

So whether you choose to pack the kids in the car or fly to more exotic destinations, the benefits are the same. As far as memories go, we tend to remember the good things; the time spent together as a family, the new things that were discovered, the new friends we made, the places we saw. This is what your children will remember and, the fact that you were there with them to enjoy it.

About the Author

Jolana Klobouk is a former travel agent who has traveled extensively for work and vacations with her family. For more travel information, visit her travel websites: http://www.best-family-beach-vacations.com and http://www.FlyFromCanada.com

Travel Insurance Guide Have Fun While Traveling!!

2009-05-28T04:41:00.001-07:00

Travelers purchase travel insurance to cover unexpected health or medical problems. Travel insurance provides coverage if you\'re sick or getting injured while traveling. Everyone requires travel insurance policy because life is unforeseen. It also provides coverage if you lost your luggage at the airport.

Travel insurance covers stolen or lost possessions but there may be limits on cash or individual items. If you\'re traveling to abroad it pays out for your hospital and medical treatment. It can protect you from all substantial losses that includes canceled trips, lost luggage, medical emergencies or other unexpected situations.

You\'ll get extra coverage with specialist travel insurance like winter sports coverage or diving insurance. You should get your travel insurance policy before planning for your travel. Travelers should take some time investigate different insurance companies and types of policies before purchasing. They must check which type of insurance policy provides more coverage.

Having a travel Insurance policy is the best idea to reduce your risks and increase your enjoyment while traveling. Travelers must consider certain factors such as health, weather, season and the way of transportation before purchasing an insurance policy.

Cost of travel insurance policy depends on the type of policy as well as insurance company. If you\'re investing more in your trip, you need more protection. Travel insurance offers complete protection for you, your family as well as for your baggage. Several insurance companies offer insurance policies at discounted rates. Sometimes travel agents also offer insurance policy. Some insurance companies/agents provides online help for purchasing travel insurance policy.

About Author: The Author presents a website on Travel Insurance. Website provides advice on how to buy travel insurance at cheap rates and offers information about travel insurance companies, travel insurance online, international travel insurance and many more. You can get more information about Online Travel Insurance

Booze Babes and Medieval Charm A Stag Weekend in Talinn has it all!

2009-05-27T05:47:00.001-07:00

Imagine a stag weekend packed to the brim with everything that constitutes ultimate enjoyment in your mind - a blend of cheap booze and beautiful babes all in a medieval setting. On top of that, you can engage the services of a full-bonded tour operator that will show the best that a Talinn stag weekend has to offer.

So, what exactly does Talinn has that is so uniquely exciting? Well, if you are looking for a gruesome and bold adventure, there is the Mass Kidnap & Banged Up in a Russian Clink session. Perfect for a group stag weekend in Talinn, everyone in your group will be \kidnapped\ by a group of Russian soldiers, placed under arrest and taken to the Patarei Prison. There you\'ll be subjected to prison procedure typical of prisoners and taken to a cell by warders. Amidst the occasional prison screams and cries, you are taken to a darkroom with practically no hint of daylight. This is as close as you can get in experiencing a day in prison!

Another exciting Talinn stag weekend activity includes a beer tasting session, a banquet and a tour of a brewery. Being in the oldest brewery in Estonia, you get to learn about the history of the brewery, taste exotic beer and eat your heart out at a mini brewery restaurant. Don\'t forget to get some souvenirs to let others know about this remarkable place!

Want to end your stag weekend with a night out at the hottest VIP club in town? Drop by at one of the most exclusive clubs in town, where hot girls are aplenty, plus an overflow of unbelievably low priced booze. A pint of local beer only costs between 1 and 1.50 here.

If you are looking a stag weekend with everything planned and taken cared of, just check out Chillisauce\'s services at http://www.chillisauce.co.uk for more details on your stag weekend in Talinn. As one of our managers, Shane Williss will be able to provide you with all the details you need to make this stag weekend one that you won\'t ever forget!

Are You Interested In Cruises And Crusing?

2009-05-26T06:42:00.001-07:00

Norm Goldman, Editor of Bookpleasures.com, Sketchandtravel.com interviews cruise expert Douglas Ward, author of Ocean Cruising & Cruise Ships 2005, now into its twentieth year of publication, published by Berlitz Publishing.

Thank you Douglas for accepting our invitation to be interviewed.

Norm:

Douglas could you tell us something about yourself and why did you want to write a book about cruising and cruise ships?

Douglas:

I had worked aboard passenger ships for 17 years before forming an association of cruise passengers, who were looking for more comparative information about cruise ships and cruising. So was born the idea for the book, which started with 120 ships and 256 pages. Today, after 20 years, the book has grown to include 256 ocean-going ships, 656 pages, and half a million words.

Norm:

I noticed your first book on cruises and cruise ships was published twenty years ago, and you have been updating your book every year. How do you go about gathering material every year for these updates and how long does it take you to update your annual book?

Douglas:

First, it takes me a minimum of three hours a day, every single day of the year, just to keep the book refreshed, up-to-date, and accurate. I also travel extensively, as much as 250 days each year. So, of course, I write while I am traveling, visiting, and sailing aboard the world's cruise ships.

Norm:

What makes cruises so appealing to honeymooners?

Douglas:

Cruises take the hassle out of planning a honeymoon, particularly with regard to language, cuisine/meals, entertainment, and so many other things that go towards making a honeymoon a fine, affordable vacation, and a complete escape from the pressures of life ashore. Actually, it's also a good way to find out how a newlywed couple cope with living in a small space.

Norm:

Are you seeing more weddings performed on cruise ships lately? What should cruisers know about cruise ship weddings?

Douglas:

By nature of their (out of the ordinary) appeal, more weddings are being performed aboard cruise ships today, simply because there is so much help at hand. The larger cruise lines have personnel dedicated to handling weddings and honeymoons, and the instant support of other personnel in cruise line head offices to draw from. Weddings can, in other words, be tailored completely to the individuals concerned (and without the interference of well-meaning parents and other family members who can create stress and pressure on couples about to undergo, what is for many, the most important ceremony of their lives).

Norm:

With so many cruise possibilities, how does one go about choosing a cruise and what should people take into consideration before deciding on any one cruise?

Douglas:

Choosing a cruise successfully depends on one's personal requirements and expectations from a vacation. First-time cruise goers would be well advised to talk to an established cruise booking specialist, who will be able to help you to choose the right ship and cruise, for the right reasons, taking into account your personal tastes and socio-economic considerations. There are so many choices today that there should be a ship and cruise to suit even the most demanding and finicky of people. Perhaps the first decision, however, should be to establish how many days you can take for your vacation (including travel days to get to/from the ship), and then think about the area you would like to cruise in. The most popular regions include the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Norwegian fjords and Baltic ports, and southeast Asia/Australasia. Those with more time who want more involvement with nature should consider visiting Antarctica or the Arctic regions (you would ideally need about three weeks). Then there is perhaps the ultimate in long distance cruising - an around the world cruise, which typically would take three to four months (most ships offering complete around the world cruises - there are about 15 in 2005 - sail between January and April - away from winter).

Norm:

Have you had any bad experiences on a cruise, and if so, please describe them.

Douglas:

I have had many bad experiences, but most of them cannot be written about, and most have been aboard ships and cruise lines that no longer exist, or have changed their names. However, there have been a few nasty transatlantic crossings (I have done 152 of them), when the weather can throw some unexpected wrenches into what otherwise is perhaps a wonderful, serene way of traveling between the Old and New Worlds.

Norm:

After deciding on a particular cruise, how do you plan for the cruise and what important elements should you keep in mind?

Douglas:

Make sure you choose the right size ship for your needs. Do you want to be with 100, 500, 1000, or 3000 other passengers? Do you want to experience cruising under sail; cruising with specialist lecturers; be aboard a ship with spa facilities, large-scale production shows (a la Las Vegas), lots of gaming, or shopping opportunities? Whichever cruise you choose, try to make the travel arrangements as simple as possible. Sometimes, the mere act of getting to and from your chosen cruise ship (or embarkation point) can prove frustrating. If you are a first-time cruise goer, try not to do everything on your first cruise -it could end up being more like an endurance test.

Norm:

Can you tell our readers something about the different cabins that are available on cruises and what to look out for?

Douglas:

First-timers would be best advised to book an outside cabin (a cabin with an outside view) rather than an interior (no view) cabin. So, when you wake up, you won't be disoriented, and you'll be able to see what the weather is like, which helps you decide what to wear each day. Typically, the more space you want, the higher the cost. Large suites with private balconies cost the most (some can measure up to 3000 square feet), while interior cabins that measure as little as 70 square feet will, of course, feel incredibly small. Typically, you get what you pay for. The average cabin size aboard today's larger cruise ships (they are really floating resorts) would be approximately 180-200 square feet.

Norm:

What type of clothing should I bring aboard?

Douglas:

Take clothing suited to the area you will be cruising in. Remember that ships are air-conditioned, so clothing that is layered works well. If you choose to cruise in cold weather regions, take suitable outer clothing, particularly for excursions ashore (Alaska is an example). If you take a Caribbean cruise, you really could pack light (cottons and natural fibers being the best, as many Caribbean islands have a high humidity factor for much of the year). Most of the (large) resort ships have a very casual dress code, while others (particularly ships that offer cruises longer than seven days - the industry standard) feature more formal dress codes. Tuxes are only really needed aboard Queen Mary 2 when doing a transatlantic crossing; otherwise, you can dress down and comfortable.

Norm:

Is there always a doctor and clinic aboard the cruise ships?

Douglas:

Almost all cruise ships carrying more than 50 passengers have a fully qualified medical doctor and nursing assistants, which also take care of the crew. Some of the larger ships have several doctors, surgical specialists, small operating rooms, full x-ray facilities, as well as extensive pharmacies. In other words, today's cruise ships would be able to cope with most medical emergencies. However, if you take medication, remember to take an adequate supply (and if you have to fly to get to/from your cruise ship, take medication in your carry-on luggage - just in case your checked-in luggage doesn't quite make it on the same day, or to the same port you're flying to).

Norm:

Can I make telephone calls from the cruise ship?

Douglas

Almost all cruise ships are equipped with direct-dial satellite-linked telephone systems (and Internet connectivity). A few ships even have special aerials that let you use your mobile phone, although most ships lose mobile connectivity when more than a mile offshore. The cost of a direct-dial satellite call varies between about $4 and $10 per minute, so don't use the telephone unless you have to - the charges can add up quickly.

Norm:

What is the usual check-in schedule before the cruise takes off?

Douglas:

Most cruise ships start embarkation about four hours prior to sailing. You would normally complete all paperwork and go through passport and security checks in a passenger terminal before being allowed to board your cruise ship. Today's check-in procedure is relatively painless, although it can take some time if you are cruising aboard one of the larger ships, when there will be 3000 other passengers to check in (in other words, there will be lines - just like at the post office).

Norm:

What happens if someone has special dietary requests?

Douglas:

Most cruise ships can handle special dietary requests, but do give advanced notice so that chefs can order and prepare any food items not normally carried. It's too late once the ship has sailed, so make your needs and requirements known at the time you book (this is when it's better to book through an accredited cruise travel specialist rather than picking something off the Internet - which doesn't answer questions well).

Norm:

How do you make payments on board?

Douglas:

An onboard credit account will typically be established when you check in prior to embarkation. When you purchase things aboard ship (drinks or wine, for example), these items are added to your account, and charged to your credit card at the end of the cruise.

Norm:

Should you tip while on aboard the ship?

Douglas:

Some ships include tips, while others automatically add a tip to your daily onboard account (particularly the major cruise lines such as Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International). However, on average you should plan on about $10 per day per person. Aboard the ships of some of the more upscale cruise lines, such as Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, SeaDream Yacht Club, Seabourn Cruise Lines, and Silversea Cruises, tips are included in the fare.

Norm:

How safe are cruise ships and how can I find out more about a particular company's record pertaining to its safety and cleanliness?

Douglas:

Today's cruise ships are extremely safe (nobody wants to work aboard an unsafe ship), and most are clean. However, of late, I have noticed that standards of cleanliness in cabins and public areas aboard some of the very large ships leave much to be desired (this is the effect of discounting, when lines cut personnel to keep prices artificially low). In general, if the same standards of food storage, handling, and hygiene that are practiced aboard today's ships were to be applied to hotels and restaurants in the United States, most would fail consistently! In other words, ships are clean - very clean.

Norm:

If you had any important advice to offer our readers that has not been covered, what would it be?

Douglas:

Do read the book - Berlitz Publishing's Ocean Cruising & Cruise Ships 2005, and you'll be more educated than most travel agents. Bon Voyage, I wish you all a wonderful cruise vacation.

Thanks Douglas for your time.

About the Author: Norm Goldman is editor of sketchandtravel.com and bookpleasures.com. Norm and his artist wife Lily meld art and words in order to create an unusual travel story, which generates interest, particularly because of the fact that each painting appears to have been 'custom-made' for the story-original story and original art. Combining the watercolors with travel writing provides a softer, more romantic look at the places we visit.
Their main focus is on romantic and wedding destinations.
As they specialize in web-based content, their articles are featured on their own site, SKETCHANDTRAVEL.COM, where you can find out more about them. They are also regular contributors to some of the most popular Internet Travel Sites: LOVETRIPPER.COM: THETIMESHAREBEAT.COM:TRAVELLADY.COM:BOOTSNALL.COM: Visit Florida Online: Tropical Island Weddings
Norm and Lily are always open to suggestions as to romantic and wedding destinations to visit, write and paint about.

Source: www.isnare.com

Port Douglas History

2009-05-23T09:41:00.001-07:00

Strolling around Port Douglas today it is hard to imagine that
it was once a wild frontier town filled with itinerant seamen
and gold prospectors. The sleepy little village which still
remembers its roaring days is now filled with cosmopolitan
cafes, boutiques and well-heeled shoppers who insist on paying a
visit to as many of Port's famous restaurants and fashionable
stores as possible.

There is a definite unreality and aloofness about Port Douglas
these days, but is that not the ideal escape for the tourists'
otherwise dreary life in the big smoke.

Situated only 60 odd kms north of Cairns, Port Douglas was first
established in 1877 when Christie Palmerston cut a road through
the rainforest and down the mountain range.Born as Cristofero
Palmerston Carandini in Victoria, Palmerston was one of those
iconic characters who occupy the fascinating early history of
the then undiscovered Far North Queensland, Australia.

Allegedly Palmerston headed for Far North Queensland in 1873 to
join the Palmer River gold rush. However his fame came to him
with the Hodgkinson River goldrush, when the track he cut from
those goldfields to Port Douglas was his first.

Palmerston's track was known affectionately as 'The Bump'.

In the early days the settlement at Port Douglas was known as
Island Point, Terrigal, Port Owen and Salisbury.

With the latter title derived from Lord Salisbury, the British
Prime Minister at the time, this name went by the way after a
visit by government officials who changed the town's name in
honour of the then Queensland Premier - John Douglas.

An amazing collection of historic photographs can be viewed at
both The Newport on Macrossan and with cocktail in hand at the
restored Court House Hotel on the corner of Macrossan Street and
Wharf Street. See a taste of the history of Port Douglas.

Dive north this October for a little reflection in Port Douglas
before the big wet season which is due to arrive anytime between
December 2005 through to March 2006.

Within weeks of its establishment the town was booming. There
were an estimated 50 tent pubs, a bakery, a general store and
rough accommodation. People poured in on their way to the
diggings. By mid-1878 there were 21 permanent hotels and a local
newspaper, the town had been surveyed, lots of land were for
sale, and the mail was being delivered from Port Douglas to
Thornborough on the goldfields. Early the following decade the
town had a population of 8000 and had overtaken Cairns as the
most important port on the north Queensland coast. Just like its
rise Port's decline was rapid. The gold started to run around
1886 and the miners moved on to Papua and New Guinea.

Port Douglas, however, remained the port for the sugar mill at
Mossman until 1958.

Today the sugar cane comprises a shrinking part of the district.

The majority of the land has been or is in the process of being
subdivided to make way for the demand in lifestyle blocks and
residential housing. Recently released to the market is the land
at Cooya Beach aptly named Cane. With prices starting at
$115,750 these property allotments could be referred to as -
never to be seen again prices!!!

Show Her You Love Her With The Gift Of A Luxury Cruise

2009-05-22T10:41:00.001-07:00

Many might consider any vacation on a cruise ship to be a luxury. It is certainly true that virtually all cruise ships offer great service and amenities onboard. But for the truly discerning traveler, there is the luxury cruise. Luxury cruises are geared toward providing passengers with a high level of quality and refinement from the moment they set foot on the ship.

There are some key differences that set a luxury cruise apart from more typical cruise vacations. Topmost among these differences is the quality of personalized service offered to each passenger. One way this care is provided is by keeping a very low staff-to-passenger ratio, usually 2 to 1. This means that for every 2 passengers, there is one staff member there to assist in their needs. Often, it means that you will be assigned a butler or valet to your suite, to further assist in fulfilling your requirements.

Another key difference found aboard is the general atmosphere of sophistication and refinement, and attention paid to the smallest of details. This might mean a bottle of chilled champagne awaiting you in your suite as you depart, a bed dressed in fine Egyptian linens, or gourmet foods to choose from at every meal. Luxury cruise ships often are decorated with fine paintings and sculptures with fresh flowers at your every turn.

Finally, many luxury cruises are all-inclusive. Everything is paid for up front: the airfare, the fine wines and liquors, the extra tours on land, the gratuities. This allows a traveler to know the full cost of all expenditures ahead of time, leaving more time for relaxing and escaping everyday cares.

Rooms are quite spacious on luxury cruises, often; ships feature all-suite accommodations, sometimes with a private balcony. Rooms may also come equipped with entertainment systems, refrigerators and wet bars, marble bathrooms, and as mentioned above, a personal butler. As for the ships themselves, they come in a range of sizes, from smaller, yacht-like vessels, to mid-to-large sized ships. One thing they all have in common, though, is a sense of privacy and a lack of crowds. Another feature that distinguishes luxury cruises is the unique range of ports of call the ships visit. Rather than traveling to the usual popular cruise spots, these ships head for out-of-the-way exotic locales.

Finally, it\'s important to note that a luxury cruise does not necessarily mean the traveler is expected to dress up and pack a large, formal wardrobe. Many luxury cruises cater to those who prefer resort-casual wear - even at dinner. Whatever level of service and sophistication you seek; there is a luxury cruise that caters to your desires.

The World's Coolest 'FranchIce'

2009-05-21T11:48:00.001-07:00

Samuel Johnson said it almost 300 years ago, and I still believe it today ...

\If you\'re tired of London, you\'re tired of life.\

I enjoy many locations around the world, but none so much as London. It\'s the center of civilization, as far as I\'m concerned. If something is \'happening\' there, then it\'s worth taking note.

That\'s why I was quite impressed to see the IceBar had set up shop on Heddon Street.

You don\'t need to have a taste for vodka in all its forms, but it helps. That\'s not only because Absolut is the financial power behind this motif, but because there is a historically-established reason why cultures from cold climates got this creative with a potato. Not only does it \'warm\' a soul from the inside, but in the realm of Absolut, it comes in more guises than you\'ve got time to try in a 30-minute session. That happens to be a customer\'s time limit in the IceBar, which also limits the number of icebarfights on record.

This is a spinoff of the famous IceHotel in the Swedish arctic zone. If you like to travel, then this is a required destination. It\'s only a 90-minute flight from Stockholm to Kiruna, where you\'ve got a choice of snowmobile or dogsled (hint: take the sled) to complete your journey to the icy climes of Jukkasjaervi in Sweden\'s portion of Lappland. It\'s situated along the banks of the Torne River, widely acclaimed as being the source of the purest water in Europe, if not the world.

I think this is one of the most spectacular scenes in existence. Everything is constructed of pure ice, from the chambers to the furniture to the decor (world-class sculptures from global artists are commissioned to create them each season) to the glassware. The all-ice wedding chapel is booked far in advance and the theater stages world-class productions.

The beds do make the concession of thermal sleeping bags, which are amazingly comfortable, but even if you do get a bit chilled here, I guarantee you\'ll be convinced it was worth it. I cannot think of a more majestic locale to view the Northern Lights flashing across the cold, crisp sky, bathing the ice in a blue-green glow that melds Nature\'s wonder with that of man\'s. The IceHotel is breathtaking in every sense of the word. It\'s an experience which will be etched into your memory forever.

Thus, it wasn\'t a surprise to me when, during a trip to Stockholm a couple of years ago, I checked into the Nordic Sea hotel and noticed a scaled-down replica of the IceBar adjacent to the lobby. I loathe queues, so fortunately, I was there on a quiet night and there was no 30-minute limit in effect. I donned the thermal cloak and gloves they provide, ordered an Absolut citron and proceeded to mingle in search of someone to share a toast of \'Skol!\'. Trust me, it wasn\'t hard to do!

Its presence was such a \'natural\' in Stockholm that I\'ve thought more than once since then that the IceBar meets the critera for being a fixture in that center of chic that is London. And now it\'s happened.

The 12 cover is reasonable, the drinks are Absolut, the sculptures and decor are changed periodically --- the cumulative body heat does cause melting over time, so re-building is a necessity --- and the atmosphere is the only thing that is always warm. After all, who\'s going to pay for a 30-minute stay, garbed in silver thermals, and not be in a festive mood? It\'s a perfect addition to any festive itinerary.

In chatting with the lovely blonde svensk flicka tending bar that evening, I discovered that Absolut is so pleased with the IceBar concept that they\'re deploying them elsewhere. Besides Stockholm, they opened a franchice (I couldn\'t resist the pun) in Milan before venturing into London. That makes sense. Stockholm\'s ambience is quite-stylish and Milan\'s is lively-stylish. If the IceBar succeeds in those cities, then it\'s ready to move up to a London setting.

It succeeds spectacularly. After one visit, and 30 minutes of Absolut, you may just reach for the cellphone and book reservations for the IceHotel, then and there.

If so, you\'ll join a growing list of those who have found that drinks in your ice can be more fun than ice in your drinks.

J Square Humboldt is the featured columnist at the Longer Life website, which is dedicated to providing information, strategies, analysis and commentary devoted to improving the quality of living. His page can be found at http://longerlifegroup.com/cyberiter.html and his observations are published three times per week.

Calypso! Carnival! Regattas! On St. Maarten

2009-05-20T12:42:00.001-07:00

Calypso! Carnival! Regattas! On St. Maarten
Read Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com
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The planes get smaller, the Antilles get lesser, the Carib beat gets more distinct, the further you fly into the Caribbean's Windward Islands.

I love the Caribbean, especially during Carnival, and my new party central discovery is Dutch Sint. Maarten, the crossroads of the Greater and Lesser Antilles. St. Martin holds 29,000 French souls on 20 square miles of volcanic rock, while 37,000 people share 17 square miles on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten. As a demarcation of meridians, ths island counts 82 nationalities as citizens, including Haitian, American, German, African, European, Canadian, Guyana, and all other Carib island people. With this diverse mix, no wonder the island's music is a conglomerate of polyglot sounds. Everyone seems to turn out for Carnival, and many turn in late, or not at all.

Even though I spent only one week at Carnival out of the 17 days of non-stop beat, from April to early May in 2002, I grooved into the spirit like music notes on a score sheet.

Compared to Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Sint Maarten is a laid back vibe with an ease of moving around, except when gargantuan, two-story towers of speakers, called tractor trailer trucks snake down Front Street.

Our jetted-in contingent of revelers gazed with awe at the Grand Carnival Parade from the balcony of the famous Bearden Art Gallery on Front Street. We had a box seat and could reach out and touch the visible vibration posing as steel band floats gliding down the narrow 17th Century avenue like one huge noteLOUDwith every steel drum on the island participating. Each float was followed by a choreographed bevy of island beauties, brightly costumed young female Carnival celebrants, with massive feathered headdresses, flags fluttering, shimmering bright mono colors, gilt and sparkle, rotating so spectators could pop a photo.

We followed the parade (actually the entire island that could walk, crawl, or stroll, followed the towers of power) to the Carnival Village, in reality, a huge empty parking lot behind Back Street, where the carnival stage presented the first band of the evening, and where vendors' food stalls dispensed $1 Carib beers and spiced chicken BBQ to 10,000 carnivalers.

The carnival theme was: We Potpourri of Splendor and Fun.

The carnival season celebrates Netherland's Queen Beatrix' birthday, culminating on April 30. It takes a couple of more days to wind down from the month long party, so they toss in a holiday for rest, and the carnival spills into May, with the Last Lap Jump Up and presentation of prizes and burning of the straw King Momo on the final day. Carnival is a historical festival Jump Up, a sea of unification with no borders or generation gaps, banging through the island for over 30 years. The Queen wasn't present, and I doubt anyone really cared if she was having a birthdayit was just an excuse to ParTee. Everyone was here for the music!

When the bands played, I knew why they called it a Jump Up.

The Rolling Tones

The headline marquee one evening was the Caribbean group that was restarted in 1994 by well-known businessman Adolphus Richardson, an original member of the band's first generation, formed in 1964, with him as trumpeter and singer. The senior group dispersed in 1992 and reformed in 1994. Their 1999 Barbados produced album, A Six for ah Nine, is their best yet. The band blends a mix of soca, reggae and calypso, as a united group of professional musicians. The band's musical journey landed it two USA-based 1997 Sunshine Award nominations for Soca Man,for the promotion of calypso and steel band music. The Rolling Tones CDs are very difficult to find, and are quite collector items, so it is probably best to rip your own in an MP3 file.

To read this entire feature FREE with photos cut and paste this link:
http://jetsettersmagazine.com/archive/jetezine/globe02/Carib02/maarten/Carnival/Calypso.html

Kriss Hammond, Jetsetters Magazine Correspondent - Read Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com To book travel visit Jetstreams.com at www.jetstreams.com and for Beach Resorts visit Beach Booker at www.beachbooker.com

About the Author

Kriss Hammond, Jetsetters Magazine Correspondent. Join the Travel Writers Network in the logo at www.jetsettersmagazine.com Leave Your email next to the logo for FREE e travel newsletter.

Crossing Paths With a Legend

2009-05-17T15:41:00.001-07:00

When 13-year-old Bill Lefakinis first visited the famed yacht Christina O in 1959 on the Hudson River in New York City, little did he realize that a 45 year old bond was about to start with the legendary vessel.

Lefakinis, chairman of Valef Yachts, had an opportunity to visit the now-famous Aristotle Onassis yacht due to a family invitation extended to Spyros Skouras, by the owner. Skouras, chairman of 20th Century Fox, was invited to the yacht, with Winston Churchill and Maria Callas in attendance. This was heady stuff for a young lad, but it also instilled in Lefakinis a love of yachts in general and yachting in particular.

As a result, the Lefakinis love of yachting has led to his stewardship of a yacht chartering business, Valef Yachts.

He fondly relates how Valef Yachts and the Christina O share a joint tradition and history that is remarkable. The \M/Y Christina O\ story actually originated in 1943 in Canada. Back then, the ship was known as the frigate Stormont, a convoy escort. Aristotle Onassis bought it in 1954, turning the frigate into the history\'s most famous yacht. The Onassis concept for \Christina O\ was to convert the vessel into a powerful symbol of his business empire with unique and total elegance.

Onassis\' guests on board \Christina O\ were truly the world\'s most famous, powerful and influential people of the time, including Sir Winston Churchill, The Aga Khan, King Farouk, Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Eva Peron, Greta Garbo and countless other famous personalities. \Christina O\ was also the scene of the world\'s most celebrated love affair when Onassis courted Jackie Kennedy. Three years after Onassis\' death, his daughter Christina, the yacht\'s namesake, donated the yacht to the Greek Government for the President to entertain visiting Heads of State. Unfortunately, the Christina O was used less often and eventually went through a long period of neglect.

Then in 1998, she was purchased by a family friend of Onassis who spent over 60 million dollars to bring it back to the original Onassis\' condition. Ironically, Bill Lefakinis and has now come full circle with the Christina O.

What\'s next for Bill Lefakinis? The tireless and dynamic yacht chartering entrepreneur was very active with the 2004 Olympics in Greece and enjoyed the opportunity to showcase the Greek Islands as one of the world\'s truly unique yacht charter destinations.

Geoff Caplan operates http://geoff-caplan.com and is a professional online marketing consultant and copywriter with eleven years of continuous experience. His diversified background includes search engine marketing, e-commerce strategy and online public relations. He has lectured extensively on subjects related to online marketing and has worked for some of the Web\'s highest traffic brands, including eDiets and myTravelUSA.

Romantic Paris

2009-05-16T16:41:00.001-07:00

Norm Goldman, Editor of www.Sketchandtravel.com and www.Bookpleasures.com is excited to have as a guest, world- wide Paris expert, Thirza Vallois. Thirza is the author of the three volumes of Around and About Paris, and another excellent book, Romantic Paris.

Thirza has lived in Paris for the past 40 years and holds several post-graduate degrees from La Sorbonne. She contributes to television and radio and has appeared on PBS, BBC, The Travel Channel, Discovery, CNN, The French Cultural Channel, among others. She also writes for The Financial Times, United Airlines' Hemispheres, Cond Nast Traveller, among others.

She is the author of Three Perfect Days in Paris, aired as a film on all United Airlines international flights and on television throughout the world. The article has won her the first award of NATJA (the North American Travel Journalists' Association).

Thirza has also contributed the Paris entry of the latest edition of The Encarta Encyclopaedia.

Thirza is also an expert on the Aveyron area in southern France. During the past several years has devoted much of her time to exploring and studying this region of France. She is now completing a new book on this last hidden region of France, to be published in 2006.

Thirza has also informed me that she has been travelling extensively in the USA, especially to California, about which she has written a couple of articles, with more to follow

Today, Thirza will be discussing with us why Paris is so romantic?

Good day Thirza and thank you for accepting to be interviewed by sketchandtravel.com and bookpleasures.com.

Norm:

Thirza, could you tell us something about yourself, how you started as a travel author and writer, how many travel books have your written, and why have you chosen to write about Paris?

Thirza:

A long time ago, when I was still a child, and travelling was still the privilege of the happy enlightened few, I happened to be blessed with an exceptional mother who believed that the best school was life itself and that the best way to embrace life was by travelling.

My exposure therefore started at a very young age, as did my love for writing, through which I expressed myself the way one does through painting, singing, playing an instrument, dancing.... I never intended to become a writer, it was just part of me. And I never chose to write about Paris. It just happened, and for two specific reasons looking back with hindsight.

Being a savvy traveller, it upset me to see how most visitors to Paris (and any other place), do it the wrong way, using directory-like guidebooks that make them go through all the endless lists of touristy musts, rather than point them to the eal place, which is the city itself. It is only through an in-depth exploration and the understanding of a place that one can make the most of one's visit, and that's what my books Around and About Paris are all about

Like all forms of self-expression, there is always an element of therapy behind the motivation, and I certainly needed to do my own therapy regarding Paris when the idea of writing about Paris began to gestate in my mind, back in the 1980s. Paris has changed dramatically since, but in those days it was an exasperating place, inhabited by very difficult people, to say the least, and my feelings for it were far from the phony I love Paris in the spring time picture postcard cultivated by Hollywood. It was really a love and hate passion, and I needed to understand my own heart, which could only happen through understanding the city.

It is the combination of the above that gave birth to my 3-volume series, Around and About Paris. As for Romantic Paris, it was their natural extension in a way. Once I provided my reader with all the meaty stuff, it was time to relax, enjoy and feast, and who does it better than lovers? It was a book written for lovers, past, present, and future, for whom Paris, more than any other city I can think of, has been designed by the gods. This also answers your other question. I have so far written four books on Paris. I have actually written a fifth book on Paris, targeting children, but have never pursued its publication (to my regret), having embarked on my new project, my book on the Aveyron which is now more than two thirds done.

Norm:

Can you explain to our audience why Paris is among the top romantic

venues in the world?

Thirza:

Everyone asks me this same question, on every interview. The answer I give is always the same, and best resumed in the introduction to Romantic Paris. Rather than paraphrase, let me quote directly from my book:

For decades I tried to figure out why Paris is shrouded in such mystique. Granted, walks at night along the Seine are enchanting, but that alone cannot explain why the very mention of Paris had always conjured up tales of romance, well before it was blessed with gas or electricity, well before its exquisitely lit street-corners were replicated the world over in black-and-white print. After all, medieval Paris was a dark den of filth, reeking with nauseous stench, and the two sinister prison fortresses that jutted out of its skyline could hardly have been conducive to romance. Not to mention the 32 rotting corpses dangling in the offing when the royal gallows was used to full capacity. Yet the myth has been perpetuated for a good thousand years.

I racked my brains, I dug into the past, I travelled into my own psyche looking for an answer, but I came back empty-handed. There simply is no answer. There lies the beauty of the enigma. Paris is poetry, Paris is mystery, Paris is beauty-an exasperating decoy that never quite delivers, all the more compelling for its imperfection, the archetypal reservoir of all our passions....

Norm:

If you had to choose six unique romantic venues in Paris, where would they be and why?

Thirza:

Very tough question, and it sometimes depends on the season or time of day or night, because omantic implies seclusion.

*Definitely the two western tips of the two central islands, Ile de la Cit and Ile Saint-Louis, but down the steps, at water level, and in the case of Ile Saint-Louis, preferably after dark.

*The tiny place de Frstemberg, near the church of Saint-Germain-des-Prs: it is a rare jewel after dark, but is also quite heavenly in the morning, when one can meanwhile take in the delightful little Delacroix Museum.

*Place Dauphine, on the western side of Ile de la Cit, also preferably after dark.

*Buttes Chaumont, which has all the ingredients of a Brahms symphony that would have appealed to the likes of Lord Byron: a grotto, a dramatic waterfall, a lake with weeping willows, sheer cliffs topped by a Temple de l'Amour-what better place for a lovers' kiss with eastern Paris spread like a carpet at your feet!

* Palais Royal (the home of writer Colette and Jean Cocteau), in early morning, before the arrival of the crowds, or at night time, after they have departed.

* Montmartre, especially on the little frequented side streets, again in the early hours of the morning, or after dark.

Norm:

Could you describe to our audience six unique wedding venues in Paris to celebrate a marriage, and explain why you would consider these venues to be most unique?

Thirza:

Once more the choice is tough, so I am trying to be as eclectic as I can, to match people's different tastes.

*Without any shadow of doubt, my first choice would go to a cruise boat on the river Seine. These come in different categories and different price ranges, my favourite fleet being Les Yachts de Paris. Nothing equals in terms of urban beauty and glamour the city's river views, even more so when seen from the water. Try to prolong your festivities into the night so as to enjoy the splendour of the floodlighting.

Les Yachts de Paris

10, quai Henri IV, 75004

Tel: 01 44 54 14 70

*At a price, every monument of Paris is for hire, even the Chteau of Versailles. If I were to hire one of them (or just part of one) for my wedding, I would probably go for the Jacquemart-Andr Museum, because as the one-time home of the famous art collectors Edouard Andr and Nlie Jacquemart, it has a private feel,to a certain extent, despite its palatial glamour, which makes it an ideal venue for a wedding occasion. The couple's fabulous art collection is on permanent display on the magnificent premises of the museum.

Muse Jacquemart-Andr

158, Boulevard Haussmann, 75008

*Countrified weddings are always appealing, and the Bois de Boulogne is as countrified as you can get within the boundaries of Paris. Le Pr Catelan offers luxury and refinement amidst beautiful green surroundings, combined with the the renowned Le Ntre's top-quality catering.

Le Pr Catelan

Bois de Boulogne

Route de Suresnes, 75016

Tel 01 44 14 41 14

*If you wish to have it countrified while staying in central Paris, you can opt for the discreet magnificence of the peach-coloured Laurent, in the lower gardens of the Champs-Elyses, and still enjoy the leafy surroundings of one of the city's most prestigious neighbourhoods (the presidential residence is across the street). Make sure to hire a dining room that comes with a terrace.

Le Laurent

41, avenue Gabriel, 75008

Tel: 01 42 25 00 39

*There was once an excellent film by Chabrol, Le charme discret de la bourgeoisie. That kind of charm, which was first and foremost that of the old aristocracy, was beautifully captured by Marcel Proust. It still lingers on Faubourg Saint Germain in the 7th arrondissement, notably in the 18th century townhouse, now the home of the celebrated Ecole Polytechnique alumni, where many of the nation's creme de la creme elite were trained.

La Maison des Polytechniciens

12, rue de Poitiers

75007 Paris

Tl: 01 49 54 74 74

*The avenue d'Ina, in the plush neighbourhood of the 16th arrondissement, is home to a magnificent town mansion from the late 19th century, decorated in traditional, period French style and overlooking a beautiful garden. Ideal for a wedding in grand style.

La Maison des Arts et Mtiers

9bis avenue d'Ina

75116 Paris

Tel: 01 40 69 27 00

Norm:

If you are planning to have a destination wedding in Paris, how far in advance should you prepare for the wedding, and where would you go to find out about the legal requirements?

Thirza:

There is a strict separation between state and church in France (see the recent headlines about the Islamic veil.....). This is important to understand because only civil marriage is recognised by French law. It is celebrated by the Mayor of the arrondissement where one of the spouses resides, and the ceremony takes place in the Salle de Marriage of the Mairie of that same arrondissement. There is a legal procedure to go by and you will need to seek legal advice for that. If you are considering a civil marriage in France, a lawyer is the person to consult, obviously (although I do know how it works, this is not the right forum to expand on administrative issues). You may also require the service of a notaire, should you be dealing with property issues. Your lawyer can refer you to a notaire. On the other hand, you don't need to be a French resident for the celebration of your religious or non-religious ceremony, nor do you need any legal advice for that. However, you should definitely prepare for it as early as possible because, as they say, he early bird catches the prey. Certainly months ahead, if not a year, should you plan your wedding to take place in spring or early summer.

Norm:

If you had to choose three of the most romantic restaurants in Paris, which ones would you choose and why?

Thirza:

* If by romantic we imply secluded cosiness which is what lovers usually seek, and since I haven't yet focused on winter, the Coupe Chou comes first to my mind, located in an ancient medieval house in the Latin Quarter, a few steps away from the Sorbonne. It's all dark nooks and crannies, which are graced with glowing log fires. If only it could snow more often in Paris than it does these days! It would then be altogether fit for a fairy tale. As an extra bonus, this is a medium-range restaurant pricewise.

Le Coupe-Chou

9, rue de Lanneau, 75005

Tel: 01 46 33 68 69

* Le Beauvilliers in Montmartre, on the other hand, is a pricy place, but as good as it comes and cheaper than others that fall into that category. Here you step into the romantic splendour of the Second Empire in the heart of real Montmartre, just a few minutes'walk from the differently (yet equally) romantic and cottagy Lapin Agile cabaret, where I would head after dinner, for a night filled with old French songs, sketches and hearty laughter.

Le Beauvilliers

52, rue Lamarck, 75018

Tel: 01 42 54 54 42

* Laprouse, a pricy place too, cannot be overlooked either, its scintillating setting having been the rendezvous of Venus's protegs. There is even a private boudoir-lounge where the two of you can dine alone undisturbed. It comes with elaborate, dainty decorations and is named La Belle Otero after the famous, fiery courtesan. If you are worried for your good reputation, note that France's most honoured members of literati also dined here regularly, Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, George Sand among them. Remember that the French have a sophisticated, unpuritanical approach to love.

Laprouse,

51, quai des Grands-Augustins, 75006

Tel: 01 43 26 68 04

Norm:

If a couple were planning to honeymoon in Paris, and were not sure which area to stay in, which three areas of the city would you choose and why?

Thirza:

Saint-Germain-des-Prs/Luxembourg area, Paris at its most sophisticated, colourful and arty, lined with extraordinary boutiques that will be hard to resist. It boasts a greater number of htels de charme than any other part of the city, which speaks for itself, and that's exactly the kind of hotel a honeymooning couple would choose to stay at, short of choosing one of the city's luxury hotels.

The Marais is similar in spirit but is less spacious, and doesn't have a park. It also has several htels de charme, though not quite so many as Saint-Germain.

Ile Saint-Louis because it is a self-contained miniature of romance, lined with boutiques and eating places of all sorts, and conveniently located for every part of Paris. It has four htels de charme to choose among and is within a few minutes' walk from both the Marais, on the Right Bank, and the Latin Quarter on the Left Bank.

Norm:

Is Paris a safe city to visit?

Thirza:

No city and no place on earth is full proof. As I am writing this interview South East Asia is subjected to a deluvian tragedy, all the way to the eastern shores of Africa. Paris is as safe as a big city can be, but one should always use one's common sense and avoid carrying cash and other valuables when going out. Pickpocketing is rife, and I have been victim to it many a time myself- A brief moment of distraction and your wallet is gone. Leave all your valuables in your safe, and carry a photocopy of your passport rather than the original document. Watch out even at the airport and hold on to your handbag in all public places (including your taxi: some delinquents may open the door and snatch your bag at a traffic light or in a traffic jam. They often operate on motorcycles and that has happened to me too). Be sensible but not paranoid.

Norm:

When is the best time to visit Paris from the point of view of climate, crowds, travel deals, etc?

Obviously spring time is unique. Good weather is never guaranteed though, no matter what time of year, but should the gods be with you, then spring, by definition, is the season of romance, and an early feel of spring can even be detected as early as on Valentine's.

I personally have a distaste for July and August, especially from the middle of July on. Most Parisians are replaced by tourists, often in organised crowds, and it just isn't it. This can also happen at weekends during spring because Europeans nowadays are very fond of weekend city breaks. Fall is a beautiful time of year, often accompanied by a lingering Indian summer, which the golden beauty of the trees contribute to enhance.

Strange as it may seem, I find Paris particularly romantic in winter, when the leafless trees allow you to enjoy the architecture of its buildings. After dark the city is altogether magical,as its street lamps don it with an amber light. It can be cold, but all you have to do is dress accordingly and make the most of the fact that you are likely to be alone out there and the entire city will belong to you and your sweetheart, as you stroll through the streets or by the river into the late hours of the night. At Christmas time you will also enjoy the festive decorations, which, it being Paris, tend to be exquisitely elegant and tasteful.

As for travel deals, they are the same all over the world. Prices shoot up in the summer and plummet in the low season.

Norm:

How easy or difficult is it to get around Paris?

Thirza:

It is extremely easy to get around Paris. Public transportation (buses, mtro and RER express trains) is very efficient and many lines run beyond midnight. Taxis are easily available except on weekend nights. They also get grabbed into thin air as soon as it starts raining. However, Paris is regularly disrupted by protest and other demonstrations (the French thrive on them), which can paralyse the city, usually from 2:00 pm on, often with no forewarning. It is therefore good to stay in central Paris so that you can make your way back to your hotel on foot, should you experience one of those typically French happenings.

Norm:

Is there anything else that you wish to add about Romantic Paris that we have not discussed?

Thirza:

Most of the recommendations in this interview are on the pricy side, because we are speaking here of a special event and moment in your life. My book Romantic Paris has pages and pages of tips and recommendations of things to be done and enjoyed on all budgets, including low budgets. Paris can truly be enjoyed romantically on a shoestring. The best of Paris is strolling through its streets, and that costs little or nothing. I have designed several romantic walks for you in Romantic Paris. That's over and above the scores of walks woven into Around and About Paris. Put on your most comfortable footgear and venture into the city, including in the heart of winter. Soak it all up. And try, just once, to stay up all night, so that you can enjoy a sunrise either from the river, or from the foot of the Sacr Coeur.

Thanks once again and best of luck on all of your future endeavours including your future book on Aveyron.

You can check out Thirza's books at the following URLS

http://www.thirzavallois.com/thirza.html
http://www.thirzavallois.com/romanticparis.html
http://www.thirzavallois.com/

http://www.thirzavallois.com/

About the Author: Norm Goldman is editor of the travel site, www.sketchandtravel.com and the book reviewing site, www.bookpleasures.com.
Norm and his artist wife Lily are a unique husband and wife team who meld words with art.
Their site, www.sketchandtravel.com focuses on romantic and wedding destinations.
Norm and Lily are open to invitations to visit romantic destinations in the New England states and Florida.

Source: www.isnare.com

Atlanta Attractions

2009-05-15T17:46:00.000-07:00

Travelers with flights to Atlanta will find the city full of culture and fun, with so many attractions that visitors will never find themselves bored. Start with the Georgia Aquarium, where you are sure to find interesting displays and hundred of species of fish and other creatures to enjoy. Be sure to make a trip to the World of Coca-Cola, a popular Atlanta attraction that displays a huge collection of memorabilia, hands on exhibits, and video presentations detailing the history of the popular soft drink. As a bonus, you\'ll be able to taste unlimited samples in many flavors.

For a more history experience, other Atlanta attractions include the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, including the home of his birth and the church where he preached. The High Museum of Art boasts over 11,000 pieces in a four-story building, including American, European, and African art, as well as photography and other art forms.

The Fox Theatre is a favorite Atlanta attraction, recently restored to ins original 1920\'s design and featuring a classic Moller organ with over 3,600 pipes, nicknamed \Mighty Mo\. The CNN Center, home to the first and largest 24-hour news network in the world, offers a Studio Tour, going behind the scenes of a live newsroom.

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a serene collection of floral displays that rival any artwork inside a museum. The Zoo Atlanta is one of the oldest zoos in the United States and, having undergone a multi-million dollar renovation in the 1980\'s, is one of the biggest Atlanta attractions. Centennial Olympic Park, built for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games, boasts weekly free concerts and entertains children with a dancing water fountain. Also visit the memorial quilt sewn in remembrance of the victims of the Olympic bombing.

With so many things to see and do, it\'s no wonder that Atlanta\'s attractions draw tourists from all over the country. These are just a few of the fun and exciting things you can do while in the area - Atlanta is a tourist draw, and for good reason.

Anyone can reprint all or part of this info about Atlanta, if the follwing is kept: Atlanta Aquarium

African Safari Preparation

2009-05-14T18:42:00.001-07:00

If you are planning on going on an African safari, the last
thing you would want to do is spoil the trip right out of the
chute by forgetting some essential things. Make yourself a list
of things to do and check everything off as you go along. There
are some important things to consider before you head to Africa.

You will want to wear comfortable, but protective clothing on
your safari. Long sleeved shirts help protect your arms from the
sun, and long pants will help protect you from mosquitoes.
Wearing neutral colored clothing will help you blend in with the
surroundings while you are admiring the wildlife, and will help
to reflect the sun, keeping you cooler.

Remember, your transportation may not allow you to carry a lot
of luggage, so be conservative. You may have to travel by a
small plane or boat and not be able to carry more than a few
pounds worth (maybe 20 or 25). Be sure your gear and clothing is
packed in something waterproofed like a duffel bag. Most safari
guide services recommend only 2 or 3 days worth of clothing be
taken as there will be facilities to do laundry in most camps
and lodges. If you are planning on being in any of the larger
African cities with restaurants, they may require more \'dressy\'
attire, so take something appropriate.

Here are a few items you might want to take along on your
African safari:

Clothing - sweater and jacket, raincoat, jeans, dress pants or
skirts (if you plan on going into the city; you might even want
to take a tie and some dress shoes), t-shirts, underwear, sports
bra, sun protecting hats, socks, hiking shoes

Miscellaneous - large handkerchief or headband, oral hygiene
supplies, hair care supplies, shaving gear, sun glasses, wash
rag, plastic storage bags, sunscreen and insect repellent,
medications for allergies, colds and headaches, flashlight,
pocket knife, camera and film (this is important - don\'t count
on getting it there), batteries, small first aid kit, eye drops,
lip balm

You should plan on visiting your doctor several weeks before
your trip to make sure you have the vaccinations and medications
you may need. There are some things you may be susceptible to in
Africa that you want to guard against.

A Yellow Fever Vaccination Card is required for entry into
Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Malaria prophylactics are advisable
before entering into a malaria area (particularly Kruger).
Malaria is spread by mosquitoes, so take other precautions, too.
Avoid Bilharzia (caused by tiny parasites) by not swimming in
stagnant rivers or streams.

If you are a non-resident of Africa, you will need a passport
that does not expire for at least six months after your return
home. Visas which are acquired before you travel are required in
Egypt, Madagascar, Mozambique, and Tanzania. Visas can be
obtained upon arrival in Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Also,
plan on getting at least the minimum amount of travel insurance.

Many places outside of the African cities accept American
currency as well as local currency. Also, take travellers
cheques in small denominations for incidental expenses. Many
establishments in the cities also accept international credit
cards. Some banks have ATM machines where you can use an
international credit card to obtain local currency. You will
need to ensure you have some American cash for visas, airport
departures, taxes, tipping, etc. Carry small denominations like
$10 - $20 USD and plenty of $1 USD for tipping.

So, getting ready for your African Safari is a job in itself,
but if you arrive prepared you will certainly have a much more
enjoyable and hassle free trip.

Come Spend a Week or Two in My Dream Retirement Piece of Paradise!

2009-05-13T19:38:00.001-07:00

An early morning walk on the beach just as the sun rises and the morning breeze is gently blowing that warm morning air. I love my stays in Dorado Puerto Rico where I can finally relax and leave the frigid cold of winter back at home in Delaware. I love the sunsets in Dorado also but there is something about that first morning walk on the beach or my early morning coffee on the balcony, I sit back and read the morning paper or one of my favorite magazines. I enjoy the morning breezes while sipping a nice cup of java. On or about ten a.m. I can walk down to the beach where the anglers are coming in from that early morning trip out to sea with their catch of the day.

It is always a surprise to see what they have caught today. There is always something I like or something new to cook up and sample a new type of seafood. I can take it up to the rental unit clean it up and save it for that evening meal. I usually purchase something and save it for the grill. I look forward to starting up the grill in the evenings have a few drinks while my fresh catch of the day grills on the barbecue. This is my piece of paradise as I sit and enjoy my meal with a drink conversing with my family and friends taking in the beautiful sunsets on the rooftop terrace at Villas de Costa Mar Dorado Puerto Rico.

My big dream is not to come back next year and enjoy two to three weeks doing this day in and day out while exploring all that Puerto Rico has to offer but to come back in a few years and make this my retirement in paradise.

A week or two at Costa Mar is what every single person that sits in an office or works a nine to five, five days a week in a seasonal climate deserves. This is paradise if not but for a few days or weeks. We all crave that two weeks vacation on a tropical island just enjoying the weather and relaxing with our loved ones. You owe it to yourself and to your families to get away with them and experience what wonders a paradise island like Puerto Rico has to offer. Dorado Puerto Rico is the perfect location just thirty minutes from SJU airport, twenty minutes from old San Juan right on the north coast of the island. You are still on American soil here and enjoy all the safety comforts of being home. You are governed and protected by the same laws and it is just two to three hours from the main land.

There is so much to do on this island paradise that even if you woke each morning and took a short car ride each day to a different destination to do something new it would take you several weeks to cover all that there is to do on this island paradise. For a complete list of all the amenities available to you on the island of Puerto Rico and Dorado visit the amenities page at http://www.villasdecostamar.com/ there you will find links to some of the most informative sites covering every aspect of this island paradise.

Come spend a week or two with us and enjoy our little piece of paradise you and your family deserve it. You have an open invitation to come enjoy my little piece of paradise and who knows maybe by the time you finally do decide to come, I may already be there enjoying my dream retirement! Life is too short to let it pass you by

Alberto Rios has worked in the financial arena for over thirty-five years. His interests in real estate investing lead him to his two most recent purchases in Dorado Puerto Rico. I enjoy my vacation home at least three weeks out of the year. We are always looking for new vacation rental places to visit.

A World Cup Guide to Berlin

2009-05-12T20:39:00.001-07:00

Out of the twelve German cities to play hosts to the FIFA 2006 World Cup Finals it is Berlin - Germany\'s capital - that has arguably the most important role to play. It is in this city on Sunday 9th July that two teams will contest the final game of the tournament, and one of those teams will claim the ultimate prize in international footballthe World Cup.

The stadium in which the Final will take place is Berlin\'s Olympic Stadium - the very same venue that was used for the 1936 Olympic Games where Jessie Owen claimed four gold medals. In preparation for the FIFA 2006 World Cup finals the Olympic Stadium has undergone a complete renovation. Some 242 million euros were invested to bring the stadium into the 21st century. Work was completed in July 2004, and in September of that year Brazil met Germany for the inaugural international game.

Aside from the World Cup Final on 9th July, Berlin\'s Olympic Stadium hosts a number of other World Cup matches. Brazil play Croatia here on 13th June, Sweden take on Paraguay in Group B on the 15th June, and Ecuador will attempt to defeat the hosts Germany at Berlin on the 20th. Ukraine face-off against Tunisia on the final day of group competition in the tournament too, while Berlin will be home to the first 2006 World Cup quarter-final on 30th June.

Berlin Sights

Berlin has so much to offer visitors this summer. There are world famous monuments, parks, restaurants, shops, museums and a zoo to take in. Two \'must see\' attractions that should top everyone\'s list are Brandenburg Gate and the TV Tower.

Brandenburg Gate

Arguably Berlin\'s most famous monument, the Brandenburg Gate towers 20 metres high into the Berlin sky. It was built in 1791 and survived the conquest of Napoleon, but was badly damaged in the Second World War. For years it stood as a partition between East and West Germany as part of the Berlin Wall. Today, it is a symbol of a reunited Germany.

The TV Tower

Affectionately known as the \'toothpick\' the TV Tower near Alexander Square is the second highest in Europe. It can be seen from almost anywhere in the city and offers spectacular views from the viewing tower and restaurant. On a clear day you can see up to 25 miles out into the German countryside. It\'s well worth a visit!

Seb Jay is a freelance writer specializing in the origination of web content for http://www.your-carhire.com.

Cigars: The Tobacco Plant

2009-05-11T21:39:00.001-07:00

Nicotiana

The tobacco plant belongs to the family of Solanacea (same as potatoes and tomatoes), and to the genus of Nicotiana. Tobaccos grown for smoking products are classified in the subgenus Nicotiana Tabacum, species Nicotiana Tabacum L. But after decades of gene tampering and uncontrolled hybridations, it is impossible to know exactly what is what! After much research conducted during the 20th century, it seems that all grown tobaccos are coming from 4 original subspecies : Havanensis, Brasiliensis, Virginica and Purpurea.

Tobacco Seeds

Tobacco seeds are tiny, very tiny. One flower gives about 3000 seeds. Depending on the variety, you can count between 10,000 and 20,000 seeds per gram, around half a million per ounce. Tobacco cannot be planted directly in the field. The grower has to set seedbeds first, to take care of them and to select the resulting small plants for transplanting. Nowadays, the grower can buy trays with alveoli prepared with soil and one single seed, coated with nutrients.

Leaves Per Plant

A tobacco plant produces between 20 and 30 leaves, and even more if buds are not removed. They are not all usable. According to the process in the field, mainly depending on whether the tobacco plants are topped or not, the grower is going to pick between 10 and 16 leaves.

How High Do They Grow?

If not topped, the most common grown tobacco plants can grow up to 8 or 9 feet tall. When shade grown and irrigated, the development is fast and the stalk is weak. Each plant has to be propped up to keep it straight up. On the contrary, some oriental types, with very small leaves, do not grow over 3 feet.

Stalk Position

When going up from the foot to the tip of a tobacco plant, leaves become darker, thicker and fuller. Therefore, knowing the origin of the tobacco is not enough to guess how the cigar is going to smoke. The stalk positions of the leaves are the determinants for the taste...

Tobacco Uses

Smoking, chewing and snuffing are the main ways to consume tobacco. Some types of tobaccos are used as decorative plants (Petunias). Nicotine extracts are used in pharmacology and perfumery. Nicotine was also used to fatten pigs but I am not sure it is still permitted. The tobacco plant is good material for genetic and botanical fundamental research because it is a fast growing plant allowing several generations per year.

John Payne is the Publisher of Web Marketing Ezine, and the Founder of Enviro-Friendly Products.

Patrice Hirschfeld has spent a lifetime in Tobacco, and is the Proprietor of the Online Cigar Store- Voila Cigars. John provides Marketing Consultancy to Voila Cigars.

Hello from New York City (4) Staten Island and a Random Act of Violence

2009-05-10T22:39:00.000-07:00

The Staten Island Ferry is a fabulous institution. It is a huge ferry that departs from a very modern, glass enclosed terminal, holds several thousand people and in just about 20 minutes whisks you over to Staten Island, very close to the Statue of Liberty, and all this for free! One thing we really noticed about New York City is that we definitely love the public transportation system. With our week long pass we have been hopping on an off subways as we please and we have found the transit system to be very efficient, pretty clean and quite safe (for the most part).

The Staten Island Ferry is a great insiders way of sneaking a peak at the Statue of Liberty since it passes pretty close by Ellis Island. Not close enough to take really great pictures with a simple digital camera like mine, but I gave it a shot anyway.

As we got off the ferry terminal on Staten Island I had a bit of a hare-brained idea: I suggested that we board one of the buses that was waiting there, just to hop on and ride around and see the island. Of course I didn\'t have a bus map with me, didn\'t have any literature about Staten Island, so didn\'t know where we were going or what the major destinations were on the island. So we got on the #46 bus without any idea where we were going or how long it was going to take. (I guess I figured how big can the island be? Well, it\'s bigger than I thought...).

But we saw a good chunk of Staten Island\'s neighbourhoods and there are some pretty nice residential neighbourhoods, although I had expected a more upscale, more landscaped environment. The ethnic mix in the area seemed to be very much characterized by Blacks and Latinos, at least those were pretty much the only people getting on the bus. School had just ended so a bunch of highschool kids had gotten on with us.

Well, we rode the darn bus until the end, which ended up being a non-descript shopping mall called \West Shore Plaza\, where we ended up having a sandwich and strolling around in a sports store which had amazingly good prices on most merchandise. Then finally another bus showed up and we had to run to catch it.

It was a pretty non-eventful bus ride, people of all ages got on and off, then two young black teenage boys got on, but didn\'t pay. The bus driver didn\'t question them and we just continued the ride. All of a sudden, I heard a big noise, like someone fists hitting another person and all the people in the bus turned around, and the two young men were beating up a young short Latino teenager. It all took just a few seconds, right before a bus stop. The whole event was too quick for anyone else to react, although I have to say, the crowd showed compassion and shock at what had happened. The minute the bus came to a stop, the two guys jumped out and ran away.

Everybody was shocked. The Latino kid was sitting there, rumpled, stunned, not seriously hurt, but had a very pained expression on his face. After he had calmed down he explained that about 8 kids were trying to extract money form him at the bus stop, he said he didn\'t have any and gave them an expired transit pass and 2 of the guys followed him onto the bus.

I have never personally witnessed public violence, so this was very shocking to me and I was glad that the kid wasn\'t really hurt. But I did feel very sorry for the victim and the whole event left a bad taste in my mouth, particularly since we had had the impression that New York City had felt so clean and safe. As a matter of fact we had commented on that a number of times, of how little litter there was in the street, how few street people or hustlers there were, how there was no graffiti in the subways, and how safe it felt to be taking transit at all hours of the day. We heard that former mayor Rudy Giuliani as well as current mayor Michael Bloomberg have really been cleaning up the city, and it shows. I guess it still doesn\'t prevent all violence from happening.

After our return to Manhattan we subwayed it all the way up to 103rd Street and essentially walked all the way down through Central Park, admiring all the recreational facilities and the beauty of this giant green space. Further south we strolled over to 5th Avenue and then down into the Broadway Area just north of Times Square, where we had some quick Italian food at Ray\'s Pizza. The evening was pretty chilly, probably only about 12 degrees or so and past 11 we headed back home on the Q train, processing the memories of another packed day and studying the behaviour of our fellow transit riders all the way back.

Susanne Pacher is the publisher of a website called Travel and Transitions(http://www.travelandtransitions.com). Travel and Transitions deals with unconventional travel and is chock full of advice, tips, real life travel experiences, interviews with travellers and travel experts, insights and reflections, cross-cultural issues, contests and many other features. You will also find stories about life and the transitions that we face as we go through our own personal life-long journeys.

Submit your own travel stories in our first travel story contest(http://www.travelandtransitions.com/contests.htm) and have a chance to win an amazing adventure cruise on the Amazon River.

\Life is a Journey Explore New Horizons\.

The interview with photos is published at Travel and Transitions - Interviews

Mossel Bay a Small Harbour Town with a Lot of Muscle!

2009-05-09T23:41:00.001-07:00

Named Mossel Bay by the famous Dutch navigator Paulus van Caerdon, whose crew consumed huge amounts of tasty molluscs after landing here in 1601. Today, this coastal town's famous muscles are prized by connoisseurs around the world, but Mossel Bay has other tasty treats just waiting to be discovered...

Between the East Coast and the Eden District

This area, known for good reason as the Eden District, is located on the East Coast of South Africa. Found at the start of a scenic strip aptly named the Garden Route. Mossel Bay is only 4 hours drive from Cape Town on an equally picturesque stretch of road well worth travelling for its own sake.

This is the place where the Indian Ocean laps pristine beaches and prehistoric fynbos dashes over hills... The climate has been compared to Hawaii, though it has its own unmistakable character. The Mozambique current, whose warm waters make for excellent swimming and sailing, have created a surfers Mecca similar to Plettenberg or Jeffrey's Bay.

Mossel Bay rests on a tooth-like cape, or point, named Cape St Blaize. From here several beaches lie waiting to be devoured, sandy stretches like Dias Beach, Victoria Bay and Santos Reef are famed for good all year conditions, miles of walking space and dazzling-pink painted sunsets.

The land of the Gouriqua and Khoisan peoples

During the past two thousand years, the Mossel Bay region was inhabited by the Gouriqua, an indigenous Khoi khoi tribe, and earlier by the San people who were mainly hunter-gatherers. Cultural tours escort travellers to their existing settlements and enlighten them to the ways of these friendly inhabitants, the forefathers of our present indigenous people. A rich history is unravelled through cultural stories and the art of their ancestral cave paintings.

Things you'll discover in and around Mossel Bay...

Many hidden details are waiting to be discovered in Mossel Bay. Among the fascinating museums dedicated to the explorer Bartholomeu Dias, you'll find a curious old Tree. This old giant, named the Post Office Tree, is a Milkwood that is more than 500 years old. This tree oddly acquired the name Post Office Tree after mariners posted letters in an old boot strung around one of its wild and willing branches. A freshwater spring, which for the past 500 years has not run dry, flows beneath its aging roots. This tree is only one of Mossel Bay's many historical sites. Adventures in and around the town will uncover many more.

Repeatedly called The Bay of Attractions you can guess that there are no shortages of things to do in Mossel Bay. The only problem is where to start...

See the Great Karoo, Little Karoo (Semi-Arid deserts) and return to Mossel Bay via the garden route, all in one day:

Take the Klein-Karoo Day trip to Oudtshoorn and ride on the back of an Ostrich. See the Crocs and enjoy the Ostrich Show at an Ostrich Farm.

Stop by the Cango Wildlife & Cheetah Ranch to see the wildlife and even hug a cheetah! Visit the Cango Caves and lose yourself in the magnitude and beauty of this subterranean underworld.

Experience the wonders of the indigenous forest with a Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour. Suspended 30 metres over the forest canopy, you can traverse from one platform to another along a steel cable.

Close to Mossel Bay is the experience and thrill of coming eye to eye with one of nature's oldest predators - The Great White Shark. With no diving qualifications or experience required you can face your fears surrounded by professional shark tour operators and a steel cage.

For a tamer experience, Mossel Bay provides the ideal viewing location for nature's friendlier sea fairing animals. Southern Right Whales, Humpback Whales, Brydes Whales, Bottlenose Dolphins and Jackass Penguins can all be seen by boat on the open seas.

Mossel Bay is more than just a muscle bound oasis at the end of the road...

Not that the journey to the garden route is something to complain about; it's only a semi-arid desert crossing after all. Apart from the superb scenery, rich historical excursions and a reputation as the Bay of Attractions, Mossel Bay is also a holiday destination with value for money, excellent dining experiences that suite everyone's tastes and a fair-weathered, and an all year-round destination where the local advice of sitting back and just allowing life to happen makes a lot of sense once you get there.

If you ever find yourself adventuring in South Africa, discover Mossel Bay for yourself. The oasis at the end of the Garden Route...

About The Author

Gregory Hudson

Visit Mossel Bay Tourism (http://www.visitmosselbay.co.za) for all your tourism information, accommodation enquiries and details of Mossel Bay's many attractions.

The Universal Language

2009-05-09T00:39:00.000-07:00

There are those who go to art school chiefly to drink red wine and air their pretensions at parties. Certainly I did both as much possible, but I also applied myself strenuously and with dedication to the work - I was going to make the most of my time there.

We did little purely academic work - mostly we rolled up our sleeves and made art - but once a week we had an art history lesson and for that I think in the course of a year we had to write two essays. One I wrote about the Fauves, the Nabis, \'Le Talisman\' painted on a cigar box and all that. The other I wrote about Alphons Mucha - the great Czech artist, the man who more-or-less invented art nouveau.

Writing that essay introduced me to an artist who impressed me hugely and who was to influence my own art to a large degree in future years.

Eight years after writing that essay I found myself standing on a pavement in Prague, my finger hovering over a doorbell above which in neat script was written the, to me, improbable name - \'Mucha\'.

When I plucked up courage to push that bell, an elderly woman put her head out an upstairs window and we shouted at each other for a while before she disappeared. Fortunately she reappeared at the door and even more fortunately she spoke impeccable English which meant she more-or-less understood when I explained that my brother was married to a woman whose grandmother was her cousin. This was a fact that I had only recently learned.

Admittedly it wasn\'t a great link, but, since she herself was Alphons Mucha\'s daughter-in-law, it did mean that Alphons Mucha\'s son\'s wife\'s mother\'s sister\'s great-grand-daughter\'s husband\'s brother was. . . me - could I come in and take a look around?

It wasn\'t actually the studio Mucha had worked in - that had been commandeered by the communists for an embassy - but it did contain many of his possessions - his easels, his brushes, his furniture, his stuffed owls - and a great deal of his art. For me to be guided by this genteel old woman around the house was an impossibly special event.

Hanging on the wall amongst the other art were several paintings of a small boy - his round, angelic little face framed with golden curls. My guide gave him a fond, octogenarian smile and said, \'. . . and this is my husband.\'

Art not only speaks across space, across cultures and languages, it speaks across time. It is a time machine by which the past may communicate with the present. By means of these daubings on canvas, Alphons Mucha could communicate to me a hundred years in the future his ideas, his feelings, his dreams, his aspirations; could move and provoke and influence me and my view of the world. Here in this room he could present to this woman the man that she had loved, borne a son with and buried - and introduce him to her as he had been long before she even met him.

A few days later I was on a bus wending its way deep into the Moravian countryside.

That road to Moravsky Krumlov was a road to another world - narrow, winding, lined with trees and little allotments and small orchards and green meadows and wayside shrines to Christ and His mum and Saint John Nepomuk. We passed through villages with unpaved roads and a drain down the middle of the main road.

The village of Moravsky Krumlov was a little more substantial. It was here that Alphon Mucha\'s much-ignored magnum opus, his series of twelve enormous paintings of Slavic history - \'the Epic of the Slav People\' - was housed in a large and dishevelled chateau on the outskirts of the village. As it said on my 40Kc ticket to get into the chateau - \'From 1963 the cycle, thanks to the town of Moravsky Krumlov, has been installing on local castle. Extraordinary interpretation of paintings and their eventful destiny attract notice of the present visitors.\

In Moravsky Krumlov nobody spoke English. I mimed my way into getting a room at the Hotel Jednota and some food at the shop.

When I arrived at the chateau, there was a guide showing a bus-load of school children around. I was touched to see them sit on the floor before a vast painting as an old lady talked so gently to them of the epic past of their own nation.

Those of us who suffered under the disability of being foreigners had to make do with a few photocopied sheets of paper as our guide. They were in French, German or English and explained some things . . . but made others more mysterious with their peculiar style:

The painting of the early days of the Slavs was described - \'They were peasants than hunters. Thus gaining some property they were attractive for nomadic tribes from the east and the regardless Goths from the west\'; St Cyril was described notably as protecting the Slavs from the \'violet Christianisation carried out by the Germans\'; the Painting of Tsar Simeon of Bulgaria was noted for the technique used - \'the whole picture is painted in Byzantine many coloured and made-up way\'; there were even some moral exhortations - \'Peter Chelcicky advances him repressed his anger and blames him for not to repay evil for evil, because if he resists the evil, the evil is multiplied in the world only.\' Sound advice . . . perhaps.

Language divided us but art spoke across the divide.

In the end one needed no written explanation. The power of the art spoke direct to the eyes and heart of the viewer, sweeping one up in the artist\'s broad vision of life.

Neville Chamberlain - British prime minister - said of Czechoslovakia before the Second World War that it was a far away country full of people of whom we know nothing. Wandering, a mute alien, around the streets and fields of Moravsky Krumlov, or deciphering the halting attempt at communication across a language barrier in that art catalogue, I often felt he was actually right. But the art - it spoke with the eloquence and passion of a native speaker. Words were finally superfluous. The language of art was doing its job.

Barney McBryde is a member of the Sri Chinmoy Centre in Auckland - New Zealand. He writes on various topics including contributions to a site of biographies

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=BarneyMcBryde

Top 5 Places to Stay in Los Angeles

2009-05-08T01:38:00.001-07:00

Los Angeles is a city that\'s difficult to navigate, especially if you\'re a tourist. Most people live and play in the cities around Los Angeles, not in downtown L.A. itself. Some of the more famous locales surrounding Los Angeles are Beverly Hills and West Hollywood and there are small beach communities located up and down the coast, like Santa Monica and Manhattan Beach. And, of course, don\'t forget Anaheim, where Disneyland is located. If you\'re visiting Los Angeles for your next vacation, it\'s best if you stay in one of the cities to get more fun out of your trip.

Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills is known for celebrities and remarkable mansions where the rich and famous reside. Beverly Hills also offers amazing shopping and beautiful hotels which cater to stars. The year-round sunshine and incredible homes make this part of Los Angeles a wonderful place to stay.

West Hollywood

Home of the world-famous Sunset Strip, West Hollywood is a unique cultural center that\'s close to the other parts of L.A., too. The Sunset Strip offers dining, shopping and nightlife that are legendary. West Hollywood has also a thriving art and design community, featuring over 30 art galleries, 200-plus design showrooms and the Pacific Design Center.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is probably one of the most beautiful areas around Los Angeles, boasting an astounding beachside location, great night life and plenty of celebrities frequenting the area\'s restaurants and bars. At night, visit the many bars or clubs - remember, however, that parking can be difficult. To avoid problems with finding parking, take a taxi or a limousine.

You should never be afraid of taking limousines for transportation because, contrary towhat you might think, thay\'re not expensive in Los Angeles. Limousine companies in L.A. usually charge per hour. If you want to get the best prices, check with a couple of limousine companies for their rates. And if you book your limousine a couple of days in advance you may be able to get a good rate.

Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach is 3 miles from Los Angeles International Airport, on the south end of Santa Monica Bay. The beautiful 928-foot pier at the end of Manhattan Beach Boulevard offers year-round fishing. The pier also has an aquarium and marine studies lab, free to the public.

Anaheim

If you\'re traveling with your family, visit Anaheim, about an hour south of Los Angeles. Here you will find Disneyland, the jewel in Disney\'s Southern California crown. This is a great place to bring your family to spend the day with the Disney characters and riding classic rides like Space Mountain. And don\'t forget to watch the parade and fireworks display at night.

Jeff Linaker has an interest in Travel & Holidays related topics. To access more information on flight to los angeles or on restaurant los angeles, please click on the links.

Enjoy Your Next Cruise Without Gaining 10 Pounds

2009-05-07T02:38:00.001-07:00

Lets face it, one of the joys of a cruise is the sumptuous world class food that is available everywhere and in great quantities. Needless to say, nearly anyone who has embarked on a cruise has come back a bit heavier, but that doesn't have to be the case. There are many other amenities aboard every cruise ship that you can enjoy and still fit into your bathing suit at the end of the trip.

One key to not overeating is to simply only eat when you are hungry. Avoid the temptation to eat at every chance you get and ask yourself Am I really that hungry. If you are then go ahead and fill up, but if you are not, pass on the food or eat just a little bit or a piece of fruit.

Another thing to remember is that you do not have to sample everything on the buffet every night! If there are many things you would like to try, then pace yourself throughout the week. How about taking just a bite or two of that tempting dessert instead of eating two pieces? Those 2 bites will taste just as good as eating the whole thing and leave you feeling much lighter.

When eating at a buffet, try to fill your plate up with fruits and vegetables. This will be much healthier for you and leave you full of energy and ready to dance the night away!

If you do overeat, there's plenty of opportunity to burn off those extra calories. Take full advantage of the exercise equipment on the ship and plan to get in a full workout each day. Walking the deck can be fun and also a great way to get in some exercise. When you are in the pool, swim a few laps instead of just floating. Take the stairs instead of elevator whenever possible.

About the Author

Lee Dobbins is contributing writer at http://www.choose-your-cruise.com where you can find out everything you wanted to know about cruises.

Relax and Get Away from It All With a Dude Ranch Vacation

2009-05-06T03:38:00.001-07:00

If you've ever heard someone say that he needs a vacation from his vacation, that person did not spend his time at a dude ranch. Vacation is meant to be a time of relaxation, a break from the stress and chaos that too often comprises daily routine. Why allow that precious time to be lost to antsy children, long lines, and overtaxed schedules?

The best route to real rest and relaxation can be found in an exciting adventure. At a dude ranch, couples can enjoy a romantic getaway, singles can meet new people, and families can bond with nature, and each other.

Planning a trip to satisfy the whole family can be a daunting challenge. Young children, teenagers, and adults often disagree on how they want to spend their vacation time. On a dude ranch family vacation, even the most difficult to please will invariably find a number of activities they enjoy.

Dude ranches are as varied as the people seeking out the vacation. Accommodations can range from rustic to luxurious, depending on the experience you're looking for. At a dude ranch, you can enjoy home cooked meals, cookouts, wagon rides, fishing, and square dances. Many ranches provide amenities such as swimming pools, hot tubs, and game rooms.

The common factor in all dude ranches is, naturally, the horses. Horseback riding is the mainstay of dude ranch vacations, and a relaxing and beautiful way to spend a day. The experience far surpasses a pony ride at a county fair, and children will delight in the adventure.

If you're looking to truly get away from it all, and make memories to last a lifetime, look no further than a Dude Ranch vacation.
Dude Ranch Info provides informatino on dude ranches in Colorado, Texas, Montana, Wyoming, Arizona, and California, and information on dude ranch jobs. Dude Ranch Info is the sister site of Mountain Vacations Web.

The Natural Luxury of an Arizona Dude Ranch Vacation

2009-05-05T04:38:00.001-07:00

Beautiful weather and sunny days are a year-round natural luxury in Arizona. One can easily argue that the weather and the scenic beauty of the state are best enjoyed in the saddle of a horse. Arizona dude ranches offer the opportunity to do precisely that, and much more.

Horseback riding is the main event at dude ranches, but it definitely isn't all a visitor will find. Swimming pools and tennis courts can be found at many ranches, and some even offer health spas and massages. Activities often include cattle roundups, hayrides, and cookouts. There is always something to do, or not do, depending on the pace the guest prefers.

Some Arizona dude ranches are operating working dude ranches. Guests may enjoy working alongside the ranch hands, roping and feeding cattle. Of course, no one is ever required to work, but the opportunity is there for those desiring to take an active role, and those willing to get dirty.

Other ranches in Arizona are known as guest ranches. They're not currently operating cattle ranches, and instead the primary focus is on the comfort and enjoyment of their guests. Guest ranches offer the usual dude ranch activities, and provide a wide range of modern amenities. The type of dude ranch to visit depends entirely on the experience the traveler is looking for.

Fittingly, the Spanish influence is clearly seen in many Arizona dude ranches. The American cowboy has roots that directly trace back to the Mexican vaqueros, and Arizona itself has very strong Spanish ties. The western hospitality you will find at Arizona's dude ranches can be easily summed up: mi casa es su casa.
Dude Ranch Info provides informatino on dude ranches in Colorado, Texas, Montana, Wyoming, Arizona, and California, and information on dude ranch jobs. Dude Ranch Info is the sister site of Mountain Vacations Web.

One Year In An Amazing Continent

2009-05-04T05:41:00.000-07:00

On Sunday December 15th 2002, I set off on a journey. It would become my first real journey in my life. I was leaving my home, my town, my country, my continent, crossing a sea and embarking on another continent: Africa.

A bit less than six months before I had finished my secondary school. While closing the school gate behind me I had a great plan in mind: I would go to Africa, and no one or nothing would stop me. Differently from most students, I wasn't planning to join any high school or university. I first wanted to do something else. I wanted to live out the restlessness I had felt during those often boring years at school.

Yes, Africa was definitely my plan!

I needed some money to realize my plan. So the months before my departure I spent working in factories. Initially I worked in a factory processing animal fodder. I remember one very funny moment during my time there.

At a given moment I had told my colleagues that I was planning to travel to Ethiopia, to which one of them replied in his coarse Flemish dialect ''you poor lad, you will be the fattest over there!'' It was a spontaneous and humorous reaction that brought about a lot of great merriment. During my long stay in Africa I often remembered that quote.

Later I worked in a pork factory, a very unpleasant job, but I was only interested in the money. The evening I quit, a colleague was teasing me about me missing the factory soon and weeping because of homesickness. It made me laugh heartily. I couldn't imagine that I would miss a factory or that I would miss Belgium.

The days and weeks and months went by. Finally there was that Sunday the 15th of December, the day of departure, an emotional goodbye for my parents and myself at the airport. That day I took a plane. My destination was Nairobi. It was the very beginning of my one-year journey in Africa.

Now, more then one year later I have returned to my home, my town, my country and to my continent. I don't know yet how much this journey will have changed my life. I don't know yet how much it has changed me.

But I do know I will never ever regret it. Not even a fraction of a second. I will always cherish my memories and they will be always a part of me.

Deep in my heart I wish I were still there. I hope it won't run away, Africa. If all is well...one day I will go back.

About the Author

Maarten De Boeck documents his breathtaking one year adventure with vivid stories and excellent pictures in his websites- http://www.OneYearAfrica.com and the latest journey- http://www.TravelDocumentAfrica.com He now knows a lot about African people and culture. He can be contacted at- maarten@OneYearAfrica.com if you want stories or excellent pictures about Africa.

Hammered Copper Sinks Artisan Treasures From Mexico

2009-05-03T06:39:00.000-07:00

Traveling the world will take you to many places and in some of them you may even find treasures. But treasures are not always made of gold or diamonds. Treasures are also made of copper. And in Santa Clara del Cobre in the Mexican state of Michoacn you will understand why treasures are also made of this modest and noble metal.

Copper, the 29th element, is believed to have been mined for about 5000 years now accompanying humanity and civilization through most of his great technological accomplishments. In modern times copper is an ever present element in the electrical and electronic industry. But that\'s not the only area of our modern lives where copper is present. Since ancient times Mexican artisans have used copper as a valuable material to fabricate beautiful and intrincate artisan works, among them there is one branch of artisans that combine practicality and art in their work. They are those dedicated to fabricate beautiful raw copper sinks in Santa Clara del Cobre.

These sinks are fabricated entirely by hand using the same ancient techniques of their indigenous ancestors. Even gas is forbidden to heat and soften the metal, they use only charcoal in small fires in the shops and helped by their inseparable hammer artisans give life and form to the copper plates placed into the fire. But this is not all, after getting the desired shape, the sinks surface has to be treated so that they will last and look like new for many years. For this they use a process called \patination\ which is done under heat and that gives the surface of the copper sinks its characteristic color and durability.

Many people may think that copper sinks are soft or fragile but that\'s not so. They are sturdy enough to substitute a regular, series made, stainless steel sink. It is sturdy enough that even bathtubs are fabricated entirely on copper. And due to the \patination\ process they won\'t acquire a greenish color or get rusty as those old pennies that didn\'t have the luck of being \patinated\.

The charming town of Santa Clara is full of shops that work day after day to bring to life this wonderful pieces that are considered a national art. They are so proud of their skills that every corner is adorned with copper, even street lamps have their share of this noble metal. If you ever have the chance to visit Mexico, make plans and include Santa Clara del Cobre in your schedule. Who knows and you may even end cooking in a copper pan and relaxing in your own copper tub while your dinner is being cooked under a copper kitchen hood.

Omar Ferro is a freelance writer and webprenur who lives part-time in Mexico and the United States.

http://www.copper-sinks-mexico.com

Getting ready for a budget vacation

2009-05-02T07:38:00.001-07:00

Most of us work very hard all year just to be able to afford
those one or two weeks away. Therefore, it just makes sense to
get the very best deal you can on that one or two week getaway.
There are a number of ways to make your vacation as pleasant as
it can be, yet still affordable enough for you to do it all over
again without waiting another entire year.

There are a number of important expenses to going on vacation,
and it is important to minimize each one in order to squeeze the
largest possible value out of those limited vacation dollars. It
is also important to determine where your priorities lie, and to
plan your vacation appropriately. For instance, if you
absolutely must have a hotel with an indoor pool, you might want
to skimp a bit on meals by eating at budget eateries or even
cooking in your room, in order to allow yourself the freedom to
spend more on a hotel where you can lounge by the pool to your
heart's delight.

On the other hand, if fancy meals out are a big part of your
vacation dream, why not try saving a few bucks by seeking out a
budget hotel? This will provide you with a clean, safe place to
stay, while giving you some extra dollars to splurge on great
appetizers or a scrumptious dessert.

Just like many other aspects of life, planning a great vacation
on a limited budget is a matter of tradeoffs. It is important to
determine your own vacation priorities and to plan accordingly.
Of course, if the family is traveling together, it is important
to take everyone's own priorities and wishes into account.
Failing to do so can mean you will end up with a car full of
surly children or an irritated spouse.

It is important to plan everything as far ahead as possible, as
the best airfare deals, car rental rates and hotel prices are
likely to be snapped up pretty quickly. It is a good idea to
start shopping for airfares and hotels in your chosen
destination at least a couple of months prior to your desired
date of departure. If the prices on airfare or hotel seem high,
be sure to shop around to see if you can find lower prices on
the internet or at your local travel agent.

Also be sure to sign up for special low fare alerts or
newsletters which detail hot travel deals. Being the first to
know about great deals is a great way to get the best deal on
your long awaited vacation.

Luggage For Kids

2009-05-01T08:38:00.001-07:00

Traveling with children is never easy and sometimes it\'s not
even fun. There is help on the way to alleviate this problem.
Luggage makers have created kid-sized luggage in bright colors
and unique designs.

Like adult luggage kid luggage has wheels. Some brands of kids
luggage have wheels that are gender based. Your children will
feel grown-up pulling their own bags. Besides watching kids pull
their luggage is cute.

Included in kids luggage are backpacks with animals that \'hug\'
your child. Backpacks and other luggage for kids are bright
colors, cartoon characters, sports themes, flowers, dance,
music, and space. Luggage can be personalized with their names.
There are bags for boys in the shapes of cars.

Styles of luggage for kids include duffel bags, sport bags,
backpacks with pockets for a radio or CD player. There are tote
bags that will hold your child\'s toys and/or books. Other themes
are flowers, animals, and camouflage design.

Kids luggage are sized for kids and designed for their needs.
The kids luggage is also a way to ease your burden as they have
their own carry on bag. Having kids use their own luggage can
help them to care for their things and allows them to have fun
as well.

Many backpacks and other luggage for both adults and kids have
holders for bottles and have waterproof snack pouches. There is
also an element of convenience with kids luggage. Be creative
and have fun traveling with your child or children.

Live in a Luxury Hotel Not in a House The Dream Of The Decade

2009-04-30T09:44:00.001-07:00

More than forty years after the building of a skyscraper hotel in one of the world\'s capitals comes a novel about hotel living: \The Dream of the Decade - The London Novels\ by Afshin Rattansi, former BBC Today Programme Producer.

The location of novel is the London Hilton skyscraper in Park Lane, finished in 1963 and designed by William B. Tabler Architects. The protagonist, a 1980s working-class-man made-good is a millionaire - but what about others who have chosen to live in hotels instead of buying property?

In New York: The Carlyle - \Though hotel residents come in varied shapes, sizes and ages, the population tends to skew older and toward a high tax bracket, said Marcie Lieberman, hotel manager at The Carlyle. \It\'s usually an upper-echelon person. People who have gotten used to a certain convenience and who like living in an environment where those things are available,\ she said.

Combine that with the right amount of pampering, and you\'ve got the answer to a hotel dweller\'s prayers - all ending in amenity. The Ritz-Carlton on Central Park South, for example, offers inclusive and a la carte services for any situation from wanting a massage to needing diamonds at a moment\'s notice.\ (Daniel Bubbeo, Newsday)

In London: \John Petch, sales director of boutique hotel group, GLA Hotels (owners of the Lancaster in Paris and the Cadogan Hotel in London) began his career with the Savoy group in the early 1980s. Back then, the fifth floor at Claridges was reserved for long-term guests. But by the early 1990s, he says, hotel residency was dying out. Even the wealthy regarded long stays as uneconomical and turned their attention to affordable second-home investment opportunities.

But the tide is turning; both the Lancaster and Cadogan have three long-stay residents who use the hotels as their city bases. \People are moving back into hotels because of the security and service,\ says Petch. Boutique hotels also excel at providing a home- from-home atmosphere backed up with personalised service. \If you have a flat, you might have one person to look after you,\ he says. \Here you have all of our staff on call.\\ (Tracy Hoffman, Financial Times)

Hotel-living Names:
Geri Halliwell - The Lanesborough, London
Bobby Hashemi, founder of Coffee Republic - Claridge\'s, London
Ruud Gullit - Malmaison, London
Chris Evans - Langham Hilton, London
Richard Harris - Savoy, London
Rupert Murdoch\'s courtship with Wendi Deng - The Mercer Hotel, New York
Ken Hom - The Dorchester, London
Peter Sellers and Britt Ekland; Richard Burton and Liz Taylor - The
Dorchester, London.
Coco Chanel - Ritz, Paris
Marlene Dietrich - Hotel Lancaster, Paris
Greta Garbo, - Fairmont Miramar, Los Angeles
Howard Hughes - Desert Inn, Las Vegas
Salvador Dali - Hotel Meurice, Paris
Peter Bogdanovich - Stanhope Hotel, New York
Claude Monet - Savoy, London
Cate Blanchett - Covent Garden Hotel, London
Christina Ricci - Covent Garden Hotel, London
Diane Von Furstenberg - Carlyle, New York
Frank Sinatra - The Waldorf Towers, New York
Cole Porter - The Waldorf Towers, New York
Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald - Lowell Hotel, New York
Madonna - Carlyle, New York
Madonna - Home House, London
William Burroughs - Beat Hotel, Paris
William Burroughs - Chelsea Hotel, New York
Sid Vicious - Chelsea Hotel, New York
Dylan Thomas - Chelsea Hotel, New York
Arthur C Clarke - Chelsea Hotel, New York
Bob Dylan - Chelsea Hotel, New York
Tim Burton - Portobello Hotel, London
Francis Ford Coppola - Portobello Hotel, London
John Lennon - Hilton, Amsterdam

The title novel in the quartet, The Dream of the Decade, may end in disquieting circumstances but one only has to look at the tragedies of the famous who have died in hotels to know it isn\'t uncommon. ends

Edward Victor is a London-based agent. http://www.zen13743.zen.co.uk/novels.html PUBLISHED IN THE UK IN MARCH 2006 AVAILABLE VIA AMAZON.COM IN JANUARY 2006

Mlaga Spain Birthplace of Pablo Picasso

2009-04-29T10:38:00.001-07:00

Another lively Andalucian city and capital of the popular
Costa del Sol Mlaga has, in its time, been inhabited by
Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and Moors.

Wide avenues and green spaces abound and, as with other
major Spanish cities, it is truly steeped in history and
culture.

The Citadel or La Alcazaba (8th-11th centuries) as well
as being the symbol of Mlaga, is one of the largest
fortresses in Andalucia with and Archaelogoical Museum now
located there.

Close by is the wonderful Castle of Gibralfaro (14th century),
joined to the Citadel by a stretch of wall that gives
superb views of Mlaga and its port.

At the foot of Gibralfaro can be found the Roman Theater,
La Malagueta, and the old quarter of the city.

In the center of the historic district stands the Cathedral
of Mlaga (16th-18th centuries), also known as La Manquita
because of its unfinished tower.

Other prominent churches in the old town of Mlaga include
Santiago (15th-18th centuries), los Mrtires, Sagroado
Corazn, and Santo Cristo de la Salud.

Mlaga is also the birthplace of celebrated Spanish painter
Pablo Picasso and there are several galleries showing his
wonderful work.

In 1983, his birthplace was declared an historic-artistic
monument and, in 1991, it became the headquarters of the
Picasso Foundation.

A charming and interesting city in its own right, you also
have all the fantastic beaches of the ever-popular Costa
del Sol close at hand.

Mlaga certainly offers a fine mix so come and make the
most of it!

About the Author

Linda Plummer is webmistress of http://www.top-tour-of-spain.com
Top Tour of Spain
providing information on Spain for travel, food, language and
living.

Interesting 5 Tips that FirstTimer Cruisers Need to Know

2009-04-28T11:41:00.001-07:00

First-time cruisers sometimes confuse about choosing the destination
for neither cruising nor they aware about the hidden costs in the
cruise. So this cruising tip should help them to prepare about what
they need to know before they go for cruising:

1. Book early or late
You will get better deal by booking well in advance of your sailing
date or at the last minute. Booking early in advance can save you
between 15 to 50 percent and also lock in the cabin category of your
choice. If you rather wait to book at the last minute, you will even
get a better discount on a ship's unsold cabin. But of course you
will not be able to choose the cabin that you like, whatever is left is
available.

2. Drive rather than fly
You could save a lot if you just drive to the nearest port in the city
rather than you fly. Nowadays there are more cruises than ever before
departing from close-to home ports such as Boston, New York, Bayonne(New Jersey), Philadelphia, Baltimore, Charleston, Jacksonville,Tampa, New Orleans, Mobile, Galveston, Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Francisco and Seattle.

3. Take a short cruise first
If you are a first-timer cruiser, it is better for you to take
short-cruise 3 to 4 days on the weekend. In this case, you will be
able to est the water before you jump-in to the real cruise. There is a good selection of ships sailing on short cruises to various destinations in the Caribbean, as well as along the Mexican Rivieraand to New England/Canada.

4. Beware of added charges
You have to be prepared for added charges when you are on a cruise.
Expenses such as playing in the casinos, alcoholic beverages to photos
snapped by the ship's ubiquitous are not included in your cruise
fare.
So, travel-smart by preparing your budget in advance when you are
going on a cruise. If you must buy something, wait until the final day
of the cruise--most of the stores will throw a sale then.

5. From ship to shore- savings on excursions
Perhaps the largest additional cost are escorted shore excursions
offered in every port of call ranging in price from $25 per person for
a tour by motor coach to as much as $300 for helicopter flight-seeing.
For two couples, it is less expensive to hire a cab or rent a car for
a day than for each person to join an organized excursion. Also there
is no requirement to leave the ship when in port. Some passengers
prefer to relax on board and lounge by the pool as the ship is much
less crowded after most people have gone ashore. Shore excursions make
the most sense when few attractions are within walking distance and
local means of transportation are scarce.

Hope that this tip will be helpful for those first-timer cruiser. Bon
Voyage!!

About the Author

Yochention and his wife love to travel and they love to share their knowledge of travelling to couples. Visit their site at http://www.Romantic-Escape.com to get ideas for your next romantic getaways.

New Zealand's South Island

2009-04-27T12:40:00.001-07:00

Natural, untouched beauty! That's what New Zealand's South Island is all about. The South Island is home to the Southern Alps and some great skiing and snow boarding opportunities.

Christchurch is the busiest city in the South Island and also offers an international airport, with flights connecting directly to a lot of overseas destinations. The Sumner Beach, Gondola, Avon river and Cashmere hills are the main attractions in Chistchurch. The city centre is always busy with trams running frequently making it a great place to hang out!

Dunedin with it's Cadbury's factory and Queenstown with it's adventure attractions are the other two cities that can't be missed in the South Island. Queenstown also has bungee jumping opportunities, jet boats and ski dive opportunities. Milford sound tours also leave from Queenstown, and are highly recommended. Stewart island can also be visited by ferries leaving Invercargill.

Most cities in the South Island are well connected by Trans Rail and that's perhaps the most convenient way to travel. Alternately, rental cars can also be booked and a drive along the West Coast is highly recommended. Getting to the South Island from the North Island is possible by either catching the Interislander ferry from Wellington or a Sounds Air flight from Wellington airport. Domestic flights run by Air New Zealand and other airlines also connect most other cities in the South Island to Wellington.

About The Author

Ramnish Gupta is based in New Zealand and has a keen interest in travel and photography. His website http://www.newzealandphotography.co.nz has travel information and photographs from all over New Zealand.

ram@newzealandphotography.co.nz

Boracay Philippines Incredible Holiday Value

2009-04-26T13:38:00.001-07:00

Few can argue that the tiny island in central Philippines known as \Boracay\ is nothing less than spectacular. With a 3 kilometer long sugar white beach, some of the lowest prices in the world and perhaps best of all plenty of good ole\' Filipino charm and hospitality, Boracay is truly a wonder to behold.

Anyone who has been there will tell you that Boracay, or \Bora\ as the locals call it, is a wonderful place to spend a vacation. During the off season (from June to mid-October) this small resort town slows way down, making it a favorite for anyone looking to spend some quiet time on the beach. Backpackers love to visit Boracay beach during the off season where they can stay in lower class hostels and villas just behind the beachfront resorts, from rates as low as $15 a night!

Families love Boracay because it is a safe, affordable and offers plenty entertainment options for those on the go. Mom will love the vendors selling jewelry on the boardwalk, and growing number of fashionable gift shops, selling everything from low cost bathing suits to Filipino pasalubong. (or \gifts from your trip\) Dad will surely enjoy a $5 massage on the beach, plenty of cold drinks and over 100 great restaurants all within a short walk of the beach.

The kids and those more active will enjoy plenty of water sports in Boracay. Just a few years ago, all powered water sports were prohibited, but now there is a flourishing water spots industry that includes jet skis, water skis, wake boarding, knee boarding and parasailing. You can even rent your own speed boat to cruise around the island in style, or a more traditional \banca\ boat, for a day of island hopping.

During peak season (from Mid-October to May) Boracay beach is absolutely bustling with activity. If you plan to visit during peak season, be sure to plan your trip at least 4-5 months in advance, as all of the best rooms and resorts fill up very quickly. During peak season, Boracay has a very festive atmosphere and is crawling with people, events and activities virtually every day.

For scuba divers, Boracay has a number of high quality dive resorts located right on the famous white beach. From there you can dive any one of 40+ dive spots located in the waters surrounding Boracay. Since the water is warm in the Philippines year round, wet suits are an option for many who enjoy taking it off, for an easy dive around Bora.

My personal favorite is to rent a motorcycle for about $25 a day and \explore\ the island, completely on my own. There is so much to see and explore behind the beachfront resorts, including a completely different culture just steps away from the famous boardwalk. A short drive to the back of the island for example, and you can explore the famous bat caves, enjoy some local cuisine at any number of beach front cafes (for the cost of beach front resorts) or just enjoy a care free day of fresh air riding in the hills of Boracay.

What ever your Philippine travel plans, don\'t miss this world famous travel destination!

The author is a professional travel consultant. He travels extensively throughout Asia, exploring new destinations as a researcher, writer and consultant for HAS Travel, Corp., one of the Philippines leading travel agencies. He is also a licensed scuba diver and helicopter pilot, who enjoys exploring new destinations from a new perspective.http://hastravel.com/

Yellow Alert: Know About and Protect Yourself from This Deadly Disease

2009-04-25T14:39:00.001-07:00

Scarlet, canary yellow and shimmering blue feathered birds flecked with iridescent green, chirp songs to greet the sunrise as you awake. But you do not notice. Thor\'s hammer pounds your head in fury. Your eyes close from the pain. The smell of your breakfast sends waves of queasiness through your rumbling mid-section. The nausea increases as you rise. Your back is a slab of concrete. Again you try getting up and your muscles scream so loudly you move in the slow motion of a special effects film. Your palm burns from the 102 plus degrees F radiating from your forehead as you brush your hair back trying to stimulate yourself to alertness. A trip hammer thunders inside you at 100 to 110 beats per minute where your heart should be. Good morning. You have Yellow Fever.

A few days after the sudden onset of symptoms, as you worsen, you\'ll become jaundiced and watch as your skin yellows to the point you more resemble a Halloween caricature than a dying person. The destruction of your liver cells results in the accumulation of yellow bile pigments in your skin, giving the disease its name. Your heart will slow to around 50 beats per minute. The rumbling in your stomach is your gastrointestinal tract bleeding. You vomit the characteristic black blood of Yellow Fever. It will become much worse. You don\'t have long to suffer though. Death usually occurs between the fourth and eighth day after the onset of the disease.

As little as three days, but more than likely around two weeks ago you were bitten by a species of an Ades aegypti mosquito that was itself infected by sucking the blood of an infected monkey or other infected primate or a sick person. If you are one of the rare cases who recovers, the disease will never recur, one attack providing immunity for life. Yellow Fever is an untreatable, mosquito-borne disease which is endemic in Central America, some parts of South America and much of sub-Sahara Africa. Along both the Gulf of Mexico and Pacific coasts from Mexico to Panama, Colombia and Ecuador an alert caused by outbreaks of Yellow Fever is currently raging. From November of 2003 until mid-January of this year nearly a score of deaths from Yellow Fever have been recorded. Immunization is of extreme importance. There is a good vaccine available which protects you for up to ten years. Many countries require an international vaccination certificate if you are traveling to or from an infected or endemic area because \many parts of the world are inhabited by mosquitoes capable of carrying this devastating disease and no one wants to see it spread beyond its present range\, according to Dr. Jane Wilson Howarth in \Bugs, Bites & Bowels\.

There is no specific medical treatment for Yellow Fever once it is contracted. Care consists of treating the symptoms of the disease by preventing dehydration and reducing fever. Bed rest is also important states Dirk G. Schroeder, ScD., MPH, in \Staying Healthy in Asia, Africa and Latin America\. In 1939 the South African physician Max Theiler developed a vaccine that confers immunity to the disease. The vaccine is not recommended for people with a severe allergy to eggs, children under 9 months of age, during pregnancy or in people who are immuno-supressed (e.g. cancer and AIDS sufferers, or people on high dose steroids). Before traveling, you should discuss your options with a doctor or immunization center. If you are considering travel to Mexico (or other countries in Central and South America), get vaccinated and carry the yellow health/vaccination records card you will be issued to avoid future problems. Take care. Don\'t be a victim.

NOTE: You cannot enter a Yellow Fever area (i.e. Panama, Colombia, Brazil, etc.) without being vaccinated and you MUST show proof of vaccination within the past ten years.

Larry M. Lynch is a bi-lingual copywriter and photographer specializing in business, travel, food and education-related writing in South America. His work has appeared in Transitions Abroad, South American Explorer, Escape From America, Mexico News and Brazil magazines. As an expert author he can ghost-write original articles for your articles marketing campaign and content for your website, newsletter, blog or e-zine. Please e-mail him now with your requirements or details at: pentagonelsb@hotmail.com.

Step Back to the Old West at Durango's Strater

2009-04-24T15:39:00.000-07:00

Step Back To The Old West At The Strater Hotel in Durango, Colorado
Read the full feature in Jetsetters Magazine www.jetsettersmagazine.com or at this link:
http://www.jetsettersmagazine.com/archive/jetezine/hotels/colorado/strater/strater.html

There is only one place to stay in Durango, the town's grandest living icon the Stater.

Just keep in mind that you may never be satisfied with any other hotel after staying here. The Strater has been hailed down the ages as Durango's home away from home. I am willing to give up my home and live here . . .!

I arrived tired and travel weary. I strode into the Strater with mixed expectations; this hotel is renowned by the locals as not only a historical landmark, but as part of the life of this Old West town.

The Strater, in fact, has bridged the past into the present, bringing the grand quality of 100 years ago forward and merging it with modern technology and conveniences, all accomplished without any compromise in quality. The result is a perfect blending of the best of both worlds that has made the Strater not only a legend in its own time, but a true masterpiece of time.

Only one-step into the lobby, and I stepped back a century in time. It is incredulous.

The Strater is drenched and framed in warm woods, carved, notched, and formed everywhere you look. The lobby just opens up before you, and yet there is a comforting feel to it that just invites you in. Every bit of space is thoughtfully laid out to maintain the solid elegance of this great hotel.

I walk across the lobby and try to take it all in, and I am amazed by the style and grace. I simply could not have imagined the quality of craftsmanship and the attention to the smallest detail, all defying words.

After a moment of adjustment, leaving the weariness of travel and the bustle of the streets behind me, I find myself snapped up by my surroundings and proceed to the front desk. The staff match up to the environment with grace and style in action . . . professional, friendly and personal, I was clearly a welcomed guest..

I was attended to in detail, then offered a drink (they had me at hello . . . but now they really had me), and tending to my needs. Soon I had not one, but several staff all offering to make my night easy by helping to park my car, and getting me into the fully booked Mahogany Grille for dinner. There was not a table available, as the entire night was completely reserved, but somehow they got me in. To be honest, I had no doubts.

You won't get the typical hotel experience at the Strater; the staff is genuine and devoted to the guests and patrons. They have it down professionalism tempered with the personal touch, and its done with class and style. They clearly understand the importance of your experience from the moment you arrive.

That alone would bring me back to stay here.

My Room

I was escorted to my room by a young gent on staff, and where do I start? My room was chock full of gorgeous walnut antiques and marble topped tables; the room and doors were all trimmed and sculpted in wood that just amazed the eye. My bed was a massive structure with a solid headboard that had to be over five feet tall. And in the middle of the beautifully laid out bed was a large fresh fully opened red rose surrounded by ferns. It was a welcome clearly felt.

A small bottle of liquor was placed on the marble topped table, a well heard, make yourself at home, and take a moment to have a drink on us. Actually, I can't remember my home making me this comfortable in a long time.

The coffered ceilings were wallpapered, and while I have never been a fan of wallpaper, this room cured me of that. The design of the wallpaper was made to fit the room, dramatic and involved and yet fitting all the angles of the ceilings and walls; I couldn't figure out how it could be done. I later was told by the owner that the wallpaper is actually hand stenciled to fit the individual angles and idiosyncrasies of each room and it had to be custom ordered and paid for in advance, much like a commissioned painting. (I actually overheard a guest saying he woke up early to look at the wallpaper. Keep in mind this was a guy.)

Every room has a diary, inviting you to author your own review; how many hotels would dare to do that?

Background History

Read the entire feature for free with photos at:
http://www.jetsettersmagazine.com/archive/jetezine/hotels/colorado/strater/strater.html

By Mari Clifton, Colorado Correspondent. Photos by Mari Clifton and courtesy of Strater Hotel. Read Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com

About the Author

By Mari Clifton, Colorado Correspondent. Read Jetsetters Magazine at www.jetsettersmagazine.com Join the Travel Writers Network in the logo.

Tips to Help Make Your Disney Vacation Perfect

2009-04-23T16:38:00.001-07:00

When to Visit

The first of our Walt Disney World Tips is to carefully choose
the time of year when you will vacation. Take into consideration
if it is tourist season as you will avoid a lot of the crowds if
you visit off-season. You also might want to avoid the summer
months as the Florida weather can get very uncomfortable.
Lastly, research the park\'s schedules for different times of the
year because parks in the Walt Disney World Resort tend to stay
open later during various months.

Rise and Shine

Set your alarm and get to the park early. Arriving at the water
parks before noon is a great way to avoid the crowds. Also,
Animal Kingdom closes early so arriving in the morning will give
you plenty of time to relax and look around. If you want to have
breakfast in the Magic Kingdom then get there early and head for
either the Crystal Palace or Cinderella\'s Royal Table. Both are
located on Main Street USA, which opens earlier than the rest of
The Magic Kingdom. When the rest of the park opens you will have
quite a headstart on the other visitors who will still have to
buy tickets to get in the park.

Riding Without the Wait

Fastpass is your friend. Some people are under the mistaken
impression that you have to pay to use Fastpass, but that isn\'t
the case. This handy-dandy little freebie allows you to avoid
the lines and get right on a ride.

Getting Something to Eat at the Park

If you are planning to skip the food stands in favor of the
restaurants, then Priority Seating is a must. It is, in most
cases, free and involves no commitment. Priority Seating does
not mean that you have reserved a table. It is basically just
the restaurant version of Fastpass i.e. you get to avoid the
lines.

Buying Souvenirs

Purchase the majority of your Disney goodies at the World of
Disney Store in the Downtown Disney Marketplace. That way you
will be able to use your annual pass or Amex to get a discount.

Buying Tickets

It is highly recommended that you purchase your tickets in
advance. That way when you get to the park won\'t have to wait in
line. If you wait to buy your tickets at the park then you are
in for a very long wait. Buying tickets in advance allows you to
head straight into the park upon arrival. Another bonus is the
fact that you can easily find tickets discounted below gate
prices.

Cruisers Rave About Princess Cruise Line's Outdoor Movies

2009-04-22T17:40:00.001-07:00

Cruise lines are constantly geared toward providing a steady flow of shipboard entertainment for cruisers to enjoy. They want your time at sea to be just as exciting as the ports of call you'll visit during your itinerary. While the standards (such as onboard casinos, Broadway-style shows and nightclubs) continue to have appeal, cruise lines are getting more and more innovative with their ideas. It was this type of what-would-the-passenger-want thinking that drove Princess Cruise Line to add Movies Under the Stars.

Unlike anything found aboard other cruise vessels, Movies Under the Stars is an impressive outdoor movie theater that Princess officials describe as a Times Square-style, LED (light emitting diode) screen. This is no ordinary TV, however.

With a monstrous 300-square-foot screen, featuring a 69,000-watt sound system, the Movies Under the Stars system is well equipped with enough lighting power to be seen clearly day or night.

Princess Cruise Line didn't stop there. Strategically placed, this million-dollar entertainment system is located above the pool area for optimal viewing comparable to traditional movie theaters. Have you ever watched your favorite movie while floating in a pool or sunbathing? Now you can!

To make the experience fit the Princess Cruise Line style, ship officials decided to go overboard (so to speak). Passengers can make complimentary chaise lounge reservations for available features. At evening viewings, comfortable cushions and blankets are placed on the lounge chairs. Additionally, cocktail specials are available as well as free popcorn and other movie munchies. Would you rather do dinner theater? Poolside casual dining is also available.

With up to seven features playing throughout the day and evening, every member of your party will find something s/he enjoys. What's in the lineup? Many family films including Spider Man 2 and Shrek 2. Concerts, sporting events - including NFL Monday Night Football - awards shows and other broadcast entertainment as well. One of the most popular events is Oscar Under the Stars with the broadcast of the Academy Awards and a party.

Movies Under the Stars has been such a hit that Princess Cruise Line has retrofitted all its Grand Class ships with the giant screens.

Movies Under the Stars follows in the tradition of such other Princess Cruise Line innovations as Personal Choice Dining , the Cruise Personalizer and the More Balconies concept to make your shipboard experience all it can be.

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

Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center based in Yonkers, New York. Visit them online today for the best deals on Princess Cruise Line cruises to the most exciting destinations worldwide. You'll find their service exceptional and their attention to detail second to none.

MiniGuide to Boston Massachusetts

2009-04-21T18:38:00.001-07:00

Affectionately called the Hub of the Universe, Boston is home to both the World Champion New England Patriots and the 2004 World Champion Boston Red Sox. Brimming with the history of how America was forged, Boston invites you to walk the Freedom Trail, where you can witness firsthand the actual areas where America's freedom was established and its liberty ensured.

Well known for fostering a culture of educational rigor and controversy, from Oliver Wendell Holmes to John F. Kennedy, the auspicious streets of Boston are lined with some hallmarks of national education, including Tufts University, Harvard, Northeastern, and, if you cross the bridge over to Cambridge, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The city offers a wide array of nationally-renowned museums to pique your curiosity in a multitude of artistic and cultural perspectives.

For those looking for a quieter moment, one can find time to delight in the Public Gardens or walk along the Charles River, and for the more adventurous, the city's famous Duck Tours lie only minutes away. From diners to gourmet restaurants, Boston presents an eclectic selection of food and drink, but no stay would be complete without stopping by Fanueil Hall for some homemade Boston Baked Beans.

Across the street from America's Most Beloved Ballpark Fenway Park, the Boston Beer Works presents a collection of homebrewed beers guaranteed to tantalize even the most discriminating beer lover's palate, but no trip would be complete without taking a tour of the brewery that produces Boston's most famous and best-loved beer, Samuel Adams!

About the Author

Presented by eTravelogue.com, the free road trip planning site. Swing by eTravelogue.com to find great attractions along your route. You can enter the start and end points of your road trip and eTravelogue.com will find attractions along the way that match your interests.

England Warwick Castle

2009-04-20T19:38:00.001-07:00

Warwick Castle was taken over by the Tussaud Group in 1978 when it was bought from the 37th Earl of Warwick and the Group began a restoration program that is still in progress nearly thirty years later. In the process, the venerable old castle has become something of a theme park, touted by its owners in their literature as \Britain\'s Greatest Medieval Experience\. This is not to denigrate their efforts however, because Castle restoration is an expensive undertaking and the \Medieval Experience\ has helped pay the way.

Special events, medieval banquets and a suite of rooms enlivened with wax figures of the Earl and Countess of Warwick preparing for a royal party create an almost circus-like atmosphere. Yet, underneath the glitter and fanfare lies the real attraction - the great medieval castle itself. Displaying the stately splendor that showcased the status and ambitions of the Earls of Warwick for 800 years, Warwick Castle represents the best of castle-building in England.

Peacocks preen and crow their welcome as visitors make their way out of the car park towards the castle\'s main entrance. The effect is almost surreal and it pulls your attention away from the present in anticipation of a journey back to the Middle Ages. The powerful curtain wall points ahead to the twin towers of the barbican and gatehouse. After passing through the gatehouse, you enter into the magnificent inner courtyard, which only enhances the effect of being transported back in time. Surrounded on three sides by a dry ditch and the River Avon on the fourth, this powerful structure is a classic stone-enclosure castle.

The earliest records reveal that Ethelfleda, the daughter of Alfred the Great, first fortified the settlement at Warwick in about the year 914 AD. Begun as an earth-and-timber (motte and bailey) fortress shortly after the Norman conquest, Warwick Castle displays relics from every castle-building era. Today the well preserved motte and the ruined shell of its keep sit discreetly at the western end of the stone fortress. Commanded at strategic points by lofty polygonal towers that are linked together by a wall-walk, this formidable stronghold would have capably withstood even the most intense of attacks or sieges, had it had the opportunity. Only weakly attacked on two occasions, these massive defences never faced an onslaught. As its lord of the time supported Parliament against Charles 1 in the English Civil War, Warwick even managed to avoid the slighting that ruined so many other castles in the 17th century.

Two towers rise on either side of the gatehouse, the quatrefoil Caesar\'s Tower and the 12-sided Guy\'s Tower. Standing over 120 feet high, these 14th century towers offer unobstructed views over the Warwickshire countryside, they contain a maze of rooms and fine staircases and give access to the intact wall-walk. Still accesible via a steep staircase, the dreary dungeon sits at the base of the Caesar\'s Tower. Besides the medieval torture devices, the chamber\'s most haunting feature is the oubliette, a tiny windowless chamber in which prisoners were kept in total darkness, with barely enough room to lie down. Food and water were delivered via a trapdoor in the ceiling.

Across the courtyard stands the 14th century Watergate Tower. This is also known as the Ghost Tower, as the spectre of the murdered Elizabethan and Jacobean politician and poet Sir Fulke Greville (1554-1628), who owned the castle from 1604, is said to haunt it. The squat tower provided access to the River Avon, which flows at its base and functioned as a natural moat. Across the river, half-timbered and brick houses line the closest lanes. Historically associated with the castle as quarters for servants and other workers, these well-maintained medieval homes offer a fascinating glimpse into the less glamorous and more mundane aspects of castle life. To reach the castle, employees originally crossed a stone bridge, the ruins of which still spans the Avon. Visitors to the castle are welcome to explore the exterior of these houses, but must respect the privacy of the owners.

Back inside Warwick Castle, the State Apartments express the grandeur of an earl\'s life, much as it was during the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore the Great Hall, the State Dining Room and the Red, Green and Cedar drawing rooms. Also on view is the Queen Anne Bedroom, the Blue Boudoir and the Chapel. Decorated with gilded plasterwork ceilings, shining armour, skilfully carved woodwork and the very best of furniture from a number of styles and eras, these graceful rooms contrast colorfully with the castle\'s intimidating gray walls.

Warwick Castle contains a treasure trove of fascinating memorabilia. The building is open to visitors throughout the year for an entrance fee. Information on special events, medieval banquets and other attractions can be found on their website at warwick-castle.co.uk

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Tourism

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=MichaelRussell

Weekend Trips Are a Popular Choice For RoomSaver.com Travelers

2009-04-19T20:38:00.001-07:00

August 09, 2005- In a recent survey conducted this month of two
hundred RoomSaver.com Travel Club members, the most popular days
to travel were compiled. Results show that the majority of
respondents (23.2%) prefer to begin their trips on a Friday, not
surprisingly as it marks the beginning of the weekend.

However, the second most popular traveling day is Sunday, which
means that during the summer months, people are taking trips at
the very beginning of the week. The next most popular day is
Thursday, followed by Saturday, and then Monday. Tuesday and
Wednesday appear to be the least favorite days to begin a trip.

Since 1999, RoomSaver.com has specialized in showcasing hotels
online and directing online travelers to the hotel\'s website,
where they will find the best rates. RoomSaver.com provides a
comprehensive hotel database for travelers while serving as a
convenient and effective advertising forum for hoteliers and
affiliate travel businesses.

Headquartered in Norfolk, VA, RoomSaver.com is part of Trader
Electronic Media\'s family of over 15 high-traffic websites,
which receive millions of visitors each week. The sites cover
virtually every used vehicle and general merchandise category,
including apartments, homes, employment and hotel lodging.
Trader Electronic Media is a division of Trader Publishing
Company, the nation\'s largest distributor of photo-classified ad
publications. For more information about RoomSaver.com, call
toll-free 866-305-3840 or visit www.RoomSaver.com.

Valencia Spain Land of Orange Groves

2009-04-18T21:38:00.001-07:00

Capital of the Comunidad Valenciana this vibrant city is famous
for being the place where El Cid (Spains national hero) fought
against the Moors.

Situated close to the Mediterranean Sea, it possesses two urban
beaches still within the township plus several beaches just a
bus ride away such as Cullera, Ganda and Oliva.

Valencia also has a good, modern shopping center, a pulsating
nightlife and plenty to interest the children ... Gulliver Park
Playground, Botanical Gardens, Zoo and lOceanogrfic that
wonderful aquarium and the biggest in Europe.

The most important fiesta of this city is that of the Fallas
which lasts from 15th-19th March. Easter Week is also very much
celebrated, with some splendid processions.

And, of course, Valencia offers plenty of culture and history!

At the heart of old Valencia is the Plaza de la Virgen, once the
location of the Roman Forum. Around this beautiful square is the
Cathedral dating from 1262, and its octagonal bell tower called
Micalet or Miguelete which is landmark to Valencia.

In the Cathedrals Museum are works by several wonderful artists
such as Goya, Jacomart, Cellini and Paggibonsi.

Next to the Cathedral is the Basilica de la Virgen de los
Desamparados a temple dedicated to the patroness of Valencia,
built between 1652 and 1667.

Close by are such buildings as Almudn, the Iglesia de San
Esteban, Palacio de Almirantes de Aragn, Church San Juan del
Hospital and the Convento de Santo Domingo.

The River Turia was actually diverted around the city after a
catastrophical flood in 1957 and the Instituto Valenciano de
Arte Moderno is to-day located in the old river bed.

Well worth seeing also are its three old bridges named Puente
del Real, Puente de la Trinidad and Puente de Serranos.

At the Plaza del Mercado you will find La Lonja, one of the best
civil Gothic buildings in Europe.

At its side is the Baroque church Iglesia de los Santos Juanes
and the bell tower Campanil de la Iglesia de Santa Catalina.

Other buildings of note include the Palacio de la Generalidad,
the Town Gate or Torres de Quart and the Rococo-style Palacio
del Marquis de Dos Aguas.

The Barrio del Carmen is an area representative of traditional
Valencian life, while El Ensanche is more representative of
to-days Valencia.

Valencia is also known as the land of flowers, and its parks and
gardens reflect this with the Jardines de la Alameda, the
Jardines de Montforte, the \Real\ Gardens, the Zoological Garden
and the Botanical Gardens.

This Mediterranean city and land of orange groves you will
surely enjoy!

Holland The Keukenhof Gardens

2009-04-17T22:38:00.001-07:00

Holland is the land of tulips. When it comes to seeing tulips, no place in the world outdoes the Keukenhof Gardens.

Keukenhof Gardens

The Keukenhof Gardens are located to the southwest of Amsterdam. I know this because I was visiting Amsterdam with an old friend and his wife. He and I had talked about taking the tour at the Heineken Brewery for days. Unfortunately, we only had two days in Amsterdam and had missed the tour on the first day. This was due to his wife having wet hair because of a blow drier, which meant we had to sit around until nature ran its course. This was not a woman willing to rough it.

I arose on the second morning with visions of beer mugs in my mind. I knew that I was in trouble as soon as he walked through the door. He had that look. You know. The one that says I have bad news, but am going to try to make it sound like good news. The powers that be wanted to go to the word famous Keukenhof Gardens.

This was disappointing for two reasons. First, I had never heard of the famous Kuekenhof Gardens, thus bringing into doubt the claim in my mind. Second, the weighing of the scales of justice were producing results decidedly in favor of a location that encompassed the word eer versus one that highlighted gardens. For the love of God, we were in Amsterdam!

An argument ensued and, of course, I lost. Off we went for a day in the gardens. Oh, fun.

As happens more often than not, I was wrong in my assumptions. In a one in a million occurrence, gardens definitely outweighed the eer option. The Keukenhof Gardens definitely deserve the fame moniker, even if you've never heard of them.

Keukenhof is perhaps the biggest collection of flowers I have ever seen. Located on 70 acres outside of the town of Lisse, the gardens are surreal. There are over 7 MILLION flowers on the grounds with Tulips in full display. The location was previously the home of a castle and accompanying lands, which gives you an idea of the layout. Essentially, you pay $20 to enter and just start strolling. It is like standing in the middle of a landscape painting. The place is so big, you can rent bikes to put around the grounds. To this end, the best time to go is in April when everything is in bloom.

Against all my inherent male attributes, I have to admit visiting the gardens outdid anything the Heineken Brewery could offer. I also felt a heck of a lot better the next morning!

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

Rick Chapo is with www.nomadjournals.com - makers of writing journals. Travel journals are great travel accessories and travel gifts for student travel, family vacations and adventure travel. Visit www.nomadjournaltrips.com for more travel articles, travelogues and travel stories.

Five Must See Places Of South America

2009-04-16T23:40:00.001-07:00

The Wonderful Creatures of The Galapagos Islands

A wonder of creation, the Galapagos Islands have captured the imagination of poets and biologists alike. Separated from the mainland in the waters of Ecuador, evolution created stunning endemic creatures such as the giant tortoise and the sea iguana, animals found only on the Galapagos. The most groundbreaking work ever to be published concerning evolution, The Origin of Species, was based on observations made on the Galapagos Islands by Charles Darwin.

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca evokes a spiritual tranquility and is the most beautiful lake I've ever seen. It touches the clouds at an altitude of 12.532 ft. (3.820 m.) with amazing dark blue waters never seen before. Titicaca, the biggest freshwater lake of South America, lies on the borders of Bolivia and Peru and hosts some wonderful islands such as The Floating Islands and The Island of the Sun.

Machu Picchu - The Lost City of The Incas

Machu Picchu, the Lost city of the Incas, is a mystical, sacred place. The ruins are one of the most enigmatic and beautiful ancient ruins in the world. Rediscovered on July 24, 1911 by Yale archaeologist Hiram Bingham, Machu Picchu (meaning 'Old Peak' in Quechua, the language spoken by the Incas) was thought to be a sanctuary for the preparation of priestesses and brides for the Inca nobility. The dramatic setting in a remote area of the Peruvian Andes enhances the shroud of mystery even more. I invite you to visit Machu Picchu - The Lost City of The Incas at www.travel-amazing-southamerica.com/machu-picchu.html.

Patagonia

Patagonia is without doubt one of the most mesmerizing places of the world. It encompasses the South of both Argentina and Chile. The name Patagonia stands for 'Land of the Big Feet'. Legends say that discoverer Ferdinand Magellan and his crew saw a tribe of nine foot tall giants with big feet. He named the tribe the Patagons or big feet. It's paradise for the adventurous traveler with landscapes impossible to imagine. Highlights are whale watching in Puerto Madryn, visiting Ushuaia (the southernmost city of the world) and hiking in Torres del Paine national park.

Salar de Uyuni

The big secret of South America is without doubt the Salar de Uyuni, the worlds largest salt flat, in Bolivia. It's the largest in the world, a staggering 4.025 square miles (10.500 square km.). The beautiful Fish Island (Isla Pescada) gives an wonderful contrast with the salt lake. The salar continues in the atacama desert, near the border of Chile, with geysers, the red and green lake, hot baths and a never ceasing tranquility.

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

Mark Van Overmeire is a passionate musician, photographer and traveler. He has traveled extensively in South America and Southeast Asia and is the founder of Travel Amazing South America, a travel site at www.travel-amazing-southamerica.com

Coming Up: An Interview with Mony Dojeiji Who Walked 5000 Km from Rome to Jerusalem For Peace

2009-04-16T00:38:00.001-07:00

Since I started this website I have had an opportunity to connect with many fascinating people and Mony Dojeij is certainly one of them. My good friend Sue Kenney connected me with Mony, and when I first talked to her by telephone in her new home in the beautiful Atlantic seaside town of Cadiz in Spain I knew I had connected with another kindred spirit.

Mony has an interesting background. Born of Lebanese parents she came to Canada at the age of 10 and grew up in Ottawa and Toronto. Mony also experienced some early mid-life questions and realized that her career and stressful lifestyle as a Microsoft sales executive were no longer satisfying for her.

Mony quit and decided to walk the Camino de Santiago, another pilgrim on this ancient, often life-transforming journey. While walking the Camino, Mony realized that she wanted to do something for peace and the idea germinated that she would go on a long journey from Rome to Jerusalem to promote peace.

She is going to tell us about her story on this 5000 km long walk that took her 13 months through 13 countries. Along the way, the universe protected her and many amazing coincidences that in effect weren\'t coincidences at all, came together to lead her life in a completely new direction. This long walk taught her many lessons about people, about herself, and about life in general.

Soon you\'ll read about these extended journeys that completely transformed one woman\'s life and about Mony\'s big plans for the future.

Submit your own travel stories in our first travel story contest(http://www.travelandtransitions.com/contests.htm) and have a chance to win an amazing adventure cruise on the Amazon River.

\Life is a Journey Explore New Horizons\.

The article with photos is published at Travel and Transitions - Interviews

Scotland History and Tourism Edinburgh Travel

2009-04-15T01:38:00.001-07:00

Scotland\'s geography has been integral to its political, social, economic and cultural development, discover more about the physical make-up of the country, together with some facts and figures about its people.

What makes Scotland so distinctive? There are some things that are uniquely Scottish but in truth, there\'s no single element that defines the country. Rather, it\'s a subtle blend of many different ingredients that have been added to the mix down through the centuries. Here, you can find a flavour of these - Scotland\'s often turbulent past, her extraordinary people, the rich diversity of her arts and culture, and the many other features found around the country which have produced a nation that treasures its past and keenly anticipates its future.

So whether you opt for a dedicated city-break or use them as a base to explore the surrounding countryside, Scotland\'s cities offer a truly memorable experience.

A nation\'s artistic and cultural life says much about its people and the vibrancy and creativity we display across a wide range of artforms quickly dispels the myth of the dour, downbeat Scot. In successive generations, Scotland has produced writers, painters, sculptors, musicians, composers and dancers whose talents have received both national and international acclaim.

Some of these artforms - such as our traditional dance and music - are uniquely Scottish both in style and inspiration and are appreciated chiefly at home. Others - such as theatre, opera and painting - draw on and incorporate influences from elsewhere in the world and consequently receive wider recognition. All, however, have the power to enthrall, challenge, provoke and inspire.

Scotland\'s position on the edge of the European continent with sea on three sides means that the weather is very varied. Records show that May and June are usually drier than July and August.

Generally speaking, the east coast tends to be cool and dry, the west coast milder and wetter. July and August are normally the warmest months, average temperature of 15-19oC/60-68oF.

Historically, Scotland has always been a popular destination for those seeking a truly romantic setting in which to make their wedding vows and several recent high profile weddings have served to highlight the reputation of Scotland as a great place to tie the knot. As a country, Scotland is famous for its beautiful and unspoilt scenery, its distinctive culture and its dramatic history. In addition it is renowned for the high standard of its cuisine and the quality of its accommodation which ranges from bed and breakfasts to magnificent castles. Perhaps most importantly though, Scotland is famed for its hospitality and the genuine warmth of its people.

So, whether you are planning to \'run away\' to Gretna Green for a small intimate wedding or to do something on a much larger scale, be it in a hotel or castle or even on a canal boat, Scotland offers endless possibilities to make that special day truly memorable.

Edinburgh has a network of local bus services allowing frequent travel throughout Edinburgh and the Lothians making this a great - and cost effective - way of getting around the city. Local bus companies offer daily bus tickets, which allow you unlimited travel in and around Edinburgh. You buy these tickets, and single journey tickets, on board the bus from the driver - remember that no change is given, so you\'ll need the exact fare.

If you\'re heading further afield, you can buy your coach tickets for UK and Scottish travel from the bus station in St Andrew Square in advance. And if you\'re heading to the airport a regular express service runs from Waverley Bridge to Edinburgh Airport, with pick up points along the way.

You can also take in the sights of the city on one of the many Edinburgh bus tours - City Bus Tour tickets can be bought in person at the Edinburgh and Scotland Information Centre, 3 Princes Street or on Waverley Bridge, which is where the tours start.

The following companies can provide more information;

For travel in and around Edinburgh including Edinburgh Airport, city bus tours and night buses - Lothian Buses contact number - 0131 555 6363

For Travel in and around Edinburgh, Central and The Borders First Buses contact number - 08708 72 72 71

Air travel-Scottish airlines or air operators servicing Scotland and/or Edinburgh include; BMI, Loch Lomond Seaplanes Scotland\'s first commercial seaplane service, British Airways, Eastern Airways, EasyJet, Highland Airways and Loganair.

For more on Scotland please visit scotland travel or Fife information

Mexico: CRIME

2009-04-14T02:38:00.001-07:00

When I told my best friend, an Assistant U.S. Attorney, my wife and I were moving to Mexico, his reply was as follows: \I guess you won\'t have access to a telephone or the Internet.\

I was dumbfounded almost to the point of not being able to make a coherent reply! Here was a well-educated man, well traveled throughout Europe, who was under the impression that Mexico was still in the Dark Ages without access to modern technology. He, I found, was not alone in his ignorance about Mexico.

While preparing for our move to Mexico, we received, whether we wanted it or not, all manner of \advice\ from family and friends which amounted to warnings of how we would be in immediate peril if we went through with our insane decision to expatriate to Mexico. Some of the \advice\ was ridiculous; some came from bigoted ignorance. Here are some of my favorites:

\If you dare drink the water you will get bloody dysentery and die.\

\Are you crazy? The bandits will kill you down there!\

\Roving gangs of American-haters will drag you right out of restaurants and kill you on the sidewalk in broad daylight.\

\You will have to wash you clothes in the river.\

\Mexicans will lie to you every chance they get.\

I mean, where in the world do they get this stuff? These are college-educated people. How is it that college-educated Americans can be so sociologically and factually ignorant of Mexico?

Have you ever been at a social gathering and someone mentions that so-and-so is vacationing in Mexico? Have you noticed the immediate, harsh, and frightened reaction of everyone?

\Oh my. I hope they don\'t drink the water!\

\I heard that it is so dangerous \'down there\' that you get snatched right off the street by the police just because you are an American!\

\Oh, they\'d better be careful. I heard the cab drivers will take you out into the desert, strip you naked, and leave you for the coyotes!\

Here is where I think they get these fables:

\My sister\'s neighbor told her that his cousin knew a friend whose mother talked with the baker whose brother-in-law went to Mexico on business and talked with the waiter in the hotel who told him of this story\ And on it goes!

I am talking about strong emotions when it comes to the subject of Mexico! Most often, the stories you will hear from your American family and friends are rumor, innuendo, or sheer nonsense. What is the deal here?

I am not sure that I know the answer to that question. It appears the news media has a lot to do with it because they report only the most vile and scary news that happens in Mexico. Mexico is not a perfect place in which to live because it contains fallible human beings who make some of the same mistakes and commit some of the same crimes as in the United States.

However, having conceded that point, an American must take a long, hard look at the so-called dangers in Mexico. For example, Mexico is not one of the most dangerous countries in the world. According to online almanac website, www.aneki.com, the United States of America is in the top 16 most dangerous countries in which to live. Mexico is not even on the list.

Therefore, to those fellow Americans who get all bent out of shape over the perceived dangers Mexico has to offer, I say, \Get some perspective people!\

Expatriates Doug and Cindi Bower have successfully expatriated to Mexico, learning through trial and error how to do it from the conception of the initial idea to driving up to their new home in another country. Now the potential expatriate can benefit from their more than three years of pre-expat research to their more than two years of actually living in Mexico. The Plain Truth about Living in Mexico answers the potential expatriate\'s questions by leading them through the process from the beginning to the end. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn not only how-to expatriate but will learn what to expect, in daily life, before coming to Mexico.BUY BOOK HERE: http://www.universal-publishers.com/book.php?method=ISBN&book=1581124570

Shopping Centres in Dublin

2009-04-13T03:38:00.001-07:00

With the rapid economic growth of Dublin came both increases in the population of Dublin an increases in the amount of money Irish people had in their pockets. As the Celtic Tiger roared on, much of the areas around Dublin were developed into residential areas. With large amounts of people living in the suburbs of Dublin, it made sense to build shopping centres in these same suburbs. 15 years ago people shopped in the centre of Dublin, but today this new generation of shopping centres draw visitors not just from the suburbs in which they are located, but from all over the city and the Counties around. In this article I am going to have a quick look at the shopping centres located in the suburbs around Dublin.

The Square Shopping Centre

Located in Tallaght, (pronounced Tallah) The Square was the first of new generation of shopping centres to spring up around Dublin City. The Square or \'Square\' as it is known is so named because it is built in the shape of a Square. The \'Square\' is 3 floors high and is home to Roches Stores, Argus, Dunnes Stores, Champion Sports and Lifestyle Sports. There is also a multi-screen cinema.

Blanchardstown Shopping Centre

The Blanchardstown Shopping Centre was the biggest shopping centre in the country. Known locally as the \'Blanch Centre,\' the centre has four wings and massive car parking areas which struggle to cope with the traffic at weekends and holiday periods. Among the major multiples in the centre are Argus, Penney\'s, Dunnes Stores and Marks & Spencer. If you only have time to visit one shopping centre during your visit to Dublin, this should be the one.

Liffey Valley Shopping Centre

The Liffey Valley Shopping Centre was a controversial development and the rezoning of the land is now a matter being investigated due to suspicion that the politicians who rezoned the land were bribed. The shopping centre is bright and airy and is meant to resemble South Beach in Miami. There is the usual collection of multiples here, but what really stands out is the location, just off the M50.

Dundrum Town Centre

Dundrum Town Centre is the newest shopping centre in Dublin. The Centre only opened in March 2005 and is now the largest shopping centre in not just Ireland but all of Europe. The anchor tenants in Dundrum are Tesco, Marks and Spencer and House of Fraser. The centre is also home to the first Starbucks to open in Ireland. The Dundrum Town Centre has one major advantage as it is situated next to the Luas Green Line which makes access from Dublin City Centre very easy.

The Pavilion Swords

Situated in Swords in North County Dublin, the Pavilion is another of the new breed of shopping centres. The shopping centre is spacious, bright and spread over two floors. There are currently new extensions being added to the Pavilion which include a cinema and more shops. Parking in the Pavilion is free for the first 3 hours.

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 Bath and hotels in Boston.

Want to retire at 18? Panama might be the place for you

2009-04-12T04:38:00.001-07:00

Panama\'s program for retirees is said to be the best in the
world. There is no age limit to qualify for the Tourist
Pensionado Visa Program. You need only to be able to prove a
monthly pension or retirement income of US$500 from a government
or corporation, plus US$100 for each dependent. Legally, you
could be as young as 18 to retire in Panama. You will need
documentation proving your pension income, certified and stamped
by the Panamanian embassy in your country of origin, plus a
valid passport and a clear police record for the past five
years. If you don\'t have a pension, you can still qualify by
depositing sufficient funds in the National Bank of Panama to
generate $750 a month. This amount covers any number of
dependents. Alternatively, you could start a qualified
tourism-related business, or invest in a forestry project. You
must use a Panamanian immigration lawyer, pass a medical on
arrival in Panama and be tested free of HIV. Your legal
representative will shepherd you through the immigration office,
once to register various documents and a second time to have
your photograph taken and be presented with your identity card
(carnet). Carry this card with you at all times. You can be
fined for not doing so. Prior to receiving your carnet, carry
your passport or a photocopy of it. Legal expenses and fees can
vary depending on size of family and complexity, but should be
around $1,500 for one person, or $2,000 for a couple. The
immigration process must be started before you leave your home
country. Once you arrive in Panama as a tourist, you will be
able to stay for up to 90 days. This can be extended for a
further 90 days if needed. Qualifying for permanent residence
takes from 30 to 60 days, depending on the time of year and the
availability of certain key immigration officials. Given all the
public holidays, November and December are good months to avoid.
Although not required, it will be helpful for you to obtain
letters of good standing from your bank or banks and any other
financial institutions. Do not close your bank accounts. You
will need at least one, and preferably two, open bank accounts
somewhere in the world before you will be able to open an
account here. Also, keep at least some credit cards. Getting
credit cards in a new country ranges from difficult to
impossible. One bank here, HSBC, offered the writer a card with
a $5,000 credit limit provided $10,000 was placed on deposit.
Finally, go to your local automobile association and get an
international driver\'s license. Your own license is good here
for 90 days, but there is no limit on an international license.
(Expect lots of puzzled looks from local traffic police as they
thumb through the multi-page document written in several
languages.)

Bimini In The Bahamas

2009-04-11T05:40:00.001-07:00

Bimini, one of the several islands of the Bahamas, is a wonderful place to vacation. Many sights of natural beauty await the tourist, as well as a few interesting landmarks, beautiful beaches, and exhilarating outdoors activities. And all of that is made that much more pleasant by a welcoming climate and a laid-back atmosphere conducive to real rest and relaxation after the day's adventures are done.

An unexpected pleasure, Compleat Angler Hotel in Alice Town Bimini, houses a variety of artifacts that belonged to none other than the famous American writer, Ernest Hemingway, who spent two years there, from 1935 to 1937. These items include manuscripts, letters and photos.

The Bimini Museum, on Kings Highway, is housed in a two-floor house that was built in the 1920's. The exhibits are primarily composed of a hodge-podge of souvenirs left behind by famous people that have spent time on the island. Items that once belonged to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Ernest Hemingway are among those on display. Other exhibits are made up of various historical items from the island. The museum is open Monday through Saturday and charges an admittance fee of $2 for adults. Children are admitted free of charge.

Marine life and activities are a big part of the Bimini experience. Among the most popular are the dolphin interaction experiences. There are a variety of tour packages available to tourists, allowing for different water skill levels and creature interaction comfort zones.

Scuba divers and snorkelers will have plenty to explore in Bimini. There are numerous underwater geological formations and coral reefs, ripe with a broad variety of marine life. Among the favorite sites are Bimini Wall, Bimini Road, Tuna Alley and the Stones of Atlantis.

Fishing boats can be chartered at the Bimini Blue Water Marina. Another fine place for those interested in fishing and boating trips is the Bimini Big Game Resort and Marina. Keefe's Bimini Under the Sea offers many diving and snorkeling packages, as well as a wild dolphin adventure package. They've also recently started a bed and breakfast program.

A fine meal can be had at the Red Lion Pub on Kings Highway in Alice Town. The cuisine is primarily Bahaman, and well prepared seafood a main feature of the menu. House desserts include a delicious key lime pie and banana cream pie. The dining room has a nice view of the marina, and the atmosphere is comfortably casual. Dinner is served Tuesday through Sunday, from 6pm to 10pm.

Interesting handcrafts can be purchased at the Bimini Straw Market. Usually around 20 vendors present, and the goods range from handmade jewelry to fresh baked bread. Pritchard's Grocery is another favorite for quality local breads, as well as a variety of other needs. At the Gateway Gallery, in Alice Town, a variety of locally created crafts, fine arts, sculptures and music are available.

Bimini is a peaceful hideaway from the world, which is perhaps why it has attracted so many public figures to its shores. It's slow pace and focus on natural pleasures make it an ideal place to engage in true rest and recreation.
About the Author

This article provided courtesy of http://www.bahamas-resort-guide.com

Cool Places ... In Hot Malaysia

2009-04-10T06:38:00.001-07:00

The pet monkey named Joyng bit through her leash and romped
through the fronds of the palm trees, celebrating her freedom.
She paused occasionally to heave a coconut down at the
sweat-soaked baseball cap of her frantic owner, who was chasing
wildly after her and, in the Terengganu dialect which Joyng
knew, beseeching her to come down. Such is life in tropic
Malaya's resorts--better known to Europeans (especially Germans)
than Americans. Guests enjoy the sun, sandy beaches, swimming
pools, eco-tourism, river cruising, ocean diving, jungle
trekking, remainder-to-remnant massages and spacious villas in
the architectural styles of the Malayan Archipelago.

They will also find crab-feeding monkeys, noisy hornbills and
monitor lizards sunning them selves on the green lawns as their
neighbors. Our press grouping's have was limited to impertinent
local culinary art, sleeping in comfortable villas, snorkeling
in warm seas and partaking in 3 health club treatments, which
together created a perfect high gear-enjoyment refuge memory. We
had first base flown into Kuala Lumpur, 's modern capital city,
which everyone calls KL. The cosmopolitan city and business
center gained new public awareness when the Petronas Twin Towers
topped out in 1996 and occupancy began in early 1997. Tower One
is occupied by Petronas, the state-owned petroleum corporation.
Tower Two houses Petronas' associate companies and
multinationals. The towers are joined by the 192-foot-long sky
bridge on levels 41 and 42.

Our final examination dinner was at the Fisherman's Cove
Restaurant, which offered an Asian-fusion of Western grill,
Taiwanese dishes, Italian specialties and impudent seafood. The
open kitchen, views and state-of-the-art design made it the
ultimate dining know at Pangkor Laut. Our drive back to KLIA for
our flight home was notable because it was on Ching Ming, the
day that people from the Formosan communities traditionally
sojourn cemeteries to honor and show respect to their ancestors.
The many final exam resting places that we passed, all senior
high school on hillsides, were thick with devotees and there
were no places left to park on the highway.

is a great place to inflict, but be prepared for heat,
overwhelming humidity and thunder-showers every afternoon,
depending on the time of year. Monsoon temper starts around the
beginning of October and continues to January-February. A haunt
arrest, with its breezes, is fresher than a check in KL, and
dress is more casual. Airlines flies five times a week 'tween
Los Angeles (LAX) and KL via Taipei and III times a week betwixt
New York (JFK) and KL via Stockholm. Airlines' crown jewel, the
Golden Lounge, is the world's largest business--and first
gear-class airport passenger lounge, with good food plus corners
in which to relax and check your e-mail. Pangkor Laut Recourse
was included on the Circus tent Ten Overseas Hotel Spas-Asia and
100 Big top Spas Worldwide 2004 lists by Conde Nast Traveller.

Opened on March 1, 1979, the repair has been extensively
refurbished under new management. It features 126 luxury villas
and 22 resort hotel villas plus a watering place building and
two swimming pools. It is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of
the World mathematical group. Tanjong Jara Refuge won the Aga
Khan Award for Architecture for its updated interpretation of a
17th-century sultan's palace.

It was given the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences'
5-Star Diamond Award and the top award in the Malaysian National
Landscaping Competition.

ViennaA Quick Guide To Vienna Austria

2009-04-09T07:38:00.001-07:00

If you\'re looking for a city with beautiful architecture, a pleasant climate and a highly significant cultural heritage, Vienna is hard to beat.

The capital city of Austria, Vienna has a population of approximately 1.6 million and the currency in use is the Euro. The climate in Vienna is mild, usually reaching the mid-twenties celsius during the Summer and rarely falling below zero in wintertime.

Vienna was originally a Celtic city, formed around the year 500BC. By the Middle Ages, it was home to the Babenberg and Habsburg dynasties. During the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the rampaging Ottoman Turks were stopped on two occasions at Vienna, and in 1815 the city was the site of the Congress of Vienna following the defeat of Napolean at Waterloo. During World War II, a quarter of this historic city\'s buildings were either damaged or completely destroyed, and the population fell dramatically. The rebuilding of the infrastructure of the city began after the war and since the nineteen eighties, the population of Vienna has begun to increase again.

The city is steeped in art and culture, and there are many opera houses, theatres and museums for the visitor to enjoy, with a proud emphasis on the city\'s musical heritage; after all this is the birthplace of Schubert and Strauss as well as being the educational centre for many of the great composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn and Brahms. The cultural centre of the city is the Museumsquartier (MQ) a 60000 square metre area in the 7th district of Vienna where many of the cultural houses are to be found.

Getting around Vienna is simple due to the excellent tram network. There is never more than a few minutes between trams, and the city also offers a good bus service. Public transportation does not operate through the night but there is a special bus service, the Nightline, which operates on the main routes every thirty minutes after the regular services cease.

The best nightlife is to be found in the 18th district of the city known as Grinzing where a variety of taverns and beer houses stay open into the early hours. As you would expect from a city with the population of Vienna, there is no shortage of fine restaurants to choose from but visitors should also try the traditional eateries known as Beisl where the world-famous Wiener schnitzel can be sampled.

Vienna has a timeless quality to it. As you stroll along the streets admiring the beautiful architecture, strains of the same music that played a century ago can still be heard wafting from the same rebuilt concert halls. Its fun just sitting in one of the many coffeehouses watching the local people in their immaculate dress stopping to greet their friends with the traditional kiss and handshake. There is something very stately and elegant about Vienna which has to be experienced to be understood. It is undeniably one of the must-see destinations of the world.

Dara Ward operates over 150 travel websites dealing with all major world locations. Some of his sites include Hotels in Barcelona and Hotels in Manchester

Exotic Spain's Most Unforgettable Place

2009-04-08T08:38:00.001-07:00

Deep in southern Spain\'s exotic Andalucia region, used by Ridley Scott for various scenes in his crusader movie The Kingdom of Heaven is what most would agree is a wonder of the world and one of Europe\'s top attractions, a dramatical hilltop fortress and palaces of the Alhambra of Granada, listed as World Heritage Sites by the United Nations organization UNESCO. Before we get into details about the Alhambra and her labyrinth of stucco, aromatic gardens, fountains and jasmin, however, it is worth remembering the lessons of the past.

Muslim Spain, Al-Andalus, for over 700 years was a land of enlightenment during the Dark Ages of Europe, and Granada was its last jewel. While the rest of Europe lived under a medieval pall of ignorance and tribal warfare, Islamic Granada, Cordoba, Toledo and Seville were home to vast libraries of sophisticated scholarship, to philosophers and astronomers, and to an advanced society that prided itself on religious tolerance.

The Muslim Spanish or Moors had brought the theories of advanced mathematics like Algebra with them. They had explored the movements of the stars and planets in the heavens. They taught the Crusaders Chess. They traded in rare spices and silks, some the likes of which Europe had not seen before.They introduced new arts, dance, metalworkings, story telling, all which became incorporated into the culture of the Crusaders, as apparent in clothing, jewelry and literature.

The Christian armies of conquest that would finally claim Granada in 1492 for Catholic Spain had waitied eight centuries to take the city. Even after such a long wait, they paused at the gates of the Alhambra, for they understood that the keys to the secrets of the Alhambra lay in the city that surrounds it. In modern Granada, it can seem as if Boabdil, the last Muslim king in any part of Spain, and his people have never left, as if the peoples of the world - students, pilgrims, travellers - have again brought alive the exotic past.

A Spanish legend has it that when Boabdil was forced to flee Granada in 1492, he turned from his retreat into exile for one last look and wept. His mother, upon seeing her son\'s tears, admonished him with the words, \Do not weep like a woman for what you could not defend like a man.\ His mother\'s harsh words notwithstanding, it is not difficult to understand why Boabdil wept. His former home was the extraordinary Alhambra, which remains to this day the most enduring symbol of Al-Andalus with its pleasure palaces, exquisite gardens and turreted walls.

The name is of Arabic derivation like many Spanish words, means red maybe derived from the colour of the sun-dried tapia, or bricks made of fine gravel and clay, of which the outer walls are built. Some authorities, however, hold that it commemorates the red flare of the torches by whose light the work of construction was carried on nightly for many years; others associate it with the name of the founder, Mahomet Ibn Al Ahmar (Mohammed II); and others derive it from the Arabic Dar al Amra, House of the Master.

Granada is the richness of the Orient grafted onto Spanish soil and the narrow lanes are alive with lanterns and smoke and street markets. Along Calderia Vieja and Calderia Nueva, twisting laneways of antiquity that climb the hill into the heart of the old Muslim town, the Albaicin, Arab shops proffer handicrafts from Morocco, sweets from Jerusalem and the spices of Arabia.

Along each thoroughfare, high white walls conceal expansive villas surrounded by gardens. Church spires, once the minarets of the city\'s mosques and from which the faithful were called to prayer, rise from amid the labyrinth that is Old Granada. Remnants of the 11th-century city walls prop up old Muslim bathhouses, some of which have reopened to offer the sensory pleasures of steam baths and massages under pleasing domes.Softly lit tea houses promise mint tea and water pipes, evoking the hospitality of ancient Persia.The aromas wafting through the laneways could be Damascus. The sounds and street cries could be the medieval bazaars of Egypt.Across from th Alhambra on the next hill is the old Moorish area where lanes lead up the hill to the Mirador San Nicolas. This popular spot in Granada often host street musicians, gypsy fortune-tellers and street markets, Across the valley, the Alhambra still guards the city under the backdrop of the mountains of the Sierra Nevada.

The majority of the Alhambra palace buildings are quadrangular, with all the rooms opening on to a central court; and the whole reached its present size simply by the gradual addition of new quadrangles, designed on the same principle, though varying in dimensions, and connected with each other by smaller rooms and passages. In spite of the neglect, vandalism and sometimes ill-judged restoration which the Alhambra has endured, it remains the most perfect example of Moorish art in its final European development, freed from the direct Byzantine influences which can be traced in the Mesquita cathedral of Cordoba, and more elaborate and fantastic than the 300 foot Minaret tower of Seville.

The Interior of the Alhambra

The Moorish part of the Alhambra resembles many medieval Christian strongholds in its threefold arrangement as a castle, a palace and a residential area.

The Alcazaba or citadel, its oldest part, is built on the isolated and precipitous foreland which terminates the plateau on the north-west. Only its massive outer walls, towers and ramparts are left.

On its watch-tower, the Torre de la Vela, 85 ft. high, the flag of Ferdinand and Isabella was first raised, in token of the Spanish conquest of Granada, on January 2, 1492. Access from the city to the Alhambra Park is afforded by the Puerta de las Granadas (Gate of Pomegranates), a massive triumphal arch dating from the 15th century. A steep ascent leads past the Pillar of Charles V, a fountain erected in 1554, to the main entrance of the Alhambra. This is the Puerta Judiciaria (Gate of Judgment), a massive horseshoe archway, surmounted by a square tower, and used by the Moors as an informal court of justice.

A passage leads inward to the Plaza de los Aljibes (Place of the Cisterns), a broad open space which divides the Alcazaba from the Moorish palace. To the left of the passage rises the Torre del Vino (Wine Tower), built in 1345, and used in the 16th century as a cellar. On the right is the palace of Charles V, a cold-looking but majestic Renaissance building, out of harmony with its surroundings, which it tends somewhat to dwarf by its superior size. The intricate designs of the Moors\' Alhambra stand in stark contrast to Charles\' palace, which consists primarily of white walls with no particularly striking features. Many architectural scholars are thus disgusted by Charles V\'s preference for simplistic Renaissance styling, which they believe detracts from the Alhambra\'s architectural magnificance. Construction of Charles\' palace, begun in 1526, was abandoned about 1650.

The celebrated Patio de los Leones (Court of the Lions) is an oblong court, with a pavilion that projects into the court at each extremity. The square is paved with coloured tiles, and the colonnade with white marble; while the walls are covered 5 ft (1.5 m) with a border above and below enamelled blue and gold. The columns supporting the roof and gallery are irregularly placed, with a view to artistic effect; and the general form of the piers, arches and pillars is most graceful. Some believe the sculpted lions in the patio were most likely sculpted by members of the Caliphate\'s Christian or Jewish community, as making such representational sculpture was not considered allowed by the followers of Islam.

The Sala de los Embajadores (Hall of the Ambassadors) is the largest in the Alhambra, and occupies all the Torre de Comares. It is a square room, the sides being 37 ft. in length, while the centre of the dome is 75 ft (23 m) high. This was the grand reception room, and the throne of the sultan was placed opposite the entrance. There are nine windows, three on each facade, and the ceiling is admirably diversified with inlaid-work of white, blue and gold, in the shape of circles, crowns and stars.

The Sala de los Abencerrajes (Hall of the Abencerrages) derives its name from a legend according to which Boabdil, the last king of Granada, having invited the chiefs of that illustrious line to a banquet, massacred them here. This room is a perfect square, with a lofty dome and trellised windows at its base. The roof is exquisitely decorated in blue, brown, red and gold, and the columns supporting it spring out into the arch form in a remarkably beautiful manner.

The Villa de los Martires (Martyrs\' Villa), on the summit of Monte Mauror, commemorates by its name the Christian slaves who were employed to build the Alhambra, and confined here in subterranean cells. The Torres Bermejas (Vermilion Towers), also on Monte Mauror, are a well-preserved Moorish fortification, with underground cisterns, stables, and accommodation for a garrison of 200 men.

Several Roman tombs were discovered in 1829 and 1857 at the base of Monte Mauror.Of the outlying buildings in connection with the Alhambra, the foremost in interest is the Palacio de Generalife (the Moorish Jennat al Arif, \Garden of Arif,\ or \Garden of the Architect\). This villa probably dates from the end of the 13th century, but has been several times restored. Its gardens, however, with their clipped hedges, grottos, fountains, and cypress avenues, are said to retain their original Moorish character.

In the construction of the Alhambra, the Moors had no depictions of people at all excluding the human hand. Of course, there were plenty of depictions of people on the Renaissance building.

It is all too much, too exquisitely conceived for just one visit. It could easily require days of close examination. For some, a lifetime is not enough.Amid all the wonder at large in this enchanted place, it is not at all difficult to understand why poor old Boabdil wept as he departed. For him and for so many other visitors who cannot bear to leave, he was leaving paradise itself

The Alhambra, Generalife and Albayzin of Granada are listed as World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO.

For more info on tours of Spain and the Alhambra visit www.magicalspain.com or contact them via email info@magicalspain.com.

October 22 - 30, 2005 and will include the Alhambra Palace and much more!

For info see => http://www.magicalspain.com

Author bio:

Richard Harris is the Executuve Director of MagicalSpain.com travel & events and has been traveling in Spain regulary for over 25 years. After spending time in Spain after a \special tour package\ with Uncle Sam in SE Asia, Richard fell in love with the Mediterranean spirit, hospitality and beauty of Spain and his first wife. He is lawyer and entrepreneur who taken \early retirement\ from his US legal career and now works only 45 hours and 45 weeks a year as a consultant. Richard, who swears by his olive oil, seafood, jamon iberico de bellota & wine lovers diet and long walks, may pop up on any of our tours or destination weddings. He has 4 bilingual children and recently met his future next wife who is a Spanish lawyer.

Richard with the help of his team at MagicalSpain.com have created interactive deluxe cultural walking tours with organized meetings with interesting Spaniards. The next one will be

October 22 - 30, 2005 and will include the Alhambra Palace and much more! For info see => http://www.magicalspain.com/

The Affordable but Comfortable Rome Honeymoon Tips List

2009-04-07T09:38:00.001-07:00

- Schedule your departure day two days after the wedding to give you ample time for rest after the activities and the celebrations. If you must travel immediately, remember to leave in the middle of the day and not the early morning so you\'ll get a good night\'s sleep.

- Ask your travel Agent for Rome Honeymoon Packages, these usually offer the best destinations for honeymooners, not to mention discounts and freebies.

- Never, ever overbook day trips, you\'re not just traveling, you\'re with your new Spouse, better save up some energy for the night\'s fireworks.

- Don\'t be afraid to ask questions, ask about certain perks, events.

- In addition to the above, don\'t be afraid to request extra stuff, like a big bathtub, a double bed, or a romantic Roman view.

- Don\'t forget to bring your marriage Certificate along with you, especially if the name of the bride is already under her husband\'s name.

- Pack your camera and lots of film; you won\'t want to miss anything. You might also want to pack extra batteries, these are absurdly pricey in tourist spots, and you wouldn\'t want to overspend.

- Mention to anyone, especially in the caf or restaurant, that you\'re on your honeymoon, yes this may sound a bit embarrassing, but some restaurants give extras like free drinks or gifts for honeymooners. This also works for birthday celebrants.

- If you want an active Rome honeymoon, research and book some guided walking tours, always remember to consult hubby before you try one though.

- Stock up on sun protection. The higher the SPF the better, as you\'ll probably be spending whole days out in the sun; you wouldn\'t want to be ill after just a few days of marriage.

- Some travel agencies include extra tours and trips, these are great ways to explore, and enjoy. This is especially good because you\'ll get a change in scenery, and won\'t easily get bored, especially if you have an extended honeymoon.

- Even if your valuables are inside your hotel room, keep them under lock, and if you decide to bring them with you, always watch out for stray pickpockets.

- Bring with you a stock of candles and massage oils that you can place inside your hotel room for that romantic evening after touring the City.

That\'s all about Rome honeymoon travel tips for now. In my next article, I\'ll explain more of my travel tips for your time in Rome.

Best wishes for a great vacation,

Les Sheppard

Les Sheppard\'s website gives full information about planning your trip to Rome, including flight deals, Rome accommodation tips, Apartment and Villa rentals,tour planning and tips on all the top Rome attractions: Lets-Travel-Rome.com

You can also grab our free hotel guide and newsletter from the homepage, and keep up to date at our Travel Rome Blog: Lets-Travel-Rome.Blogspot

Mexico's Riviera Maya: The New Caribbean Vacation Hot Spot

2009-04-06T10:38:00.001-07:00

Travelers who are looking for a fantastic all-inclusive resort destination that is priced far below most tropical destinations in and around the Caribbean should look into Mexico\'s Riviera Maya. This area has fast become a very popular tropical vacation getaway for travelers from around the world. The Riviera Maya is located on the Caribbean side of Mexico and encompasses the stretch of coastline ranging from about 5 miles to 60 miles south of Cancun.

Don\'t be misled into thinking that because you fly into Cancun to get to the Riviera Maya that it is anything like Cancun and its spring break, party-like atmosphereit is far from it. The Riviera Maya has been set aside by the Mexican government as a semi-protected area, and as such it cannot become the touristy, high-rise resort type of destination you find in the Cancun hotel zone. Resorts can only be built 3-stories or less in height and they have to be constructed to embrace the surrounding vegetation, wildlife, and topography. It is a much more family-friendly and romantic vacation destination.

Resorts in the Riviera Maya are primarily all-inclusive properties. Because of the remote locations of many of the properties there are very few offsite dining areas. All-inclusive resorts give the traveler the benefit of having everything paid for prior to their arrival. All meals, drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), non-motorized watersports, and other amenities are included in package prices. The more upscale all-inclusive resorts of 4-star and higher quality typically have many different restaurant options ranging from buffet to world-class a la carte cuisine.all-included! Some of the more popular resort chains in the Riviera Maya include Iberostar Resorts, Palace Resorts, and Secrets Resorts & Spas. Resorts run anywhere from more family-related types of properties or resorts for the budget-minded to very upscale adults-only spa resorts.

One of the best reasons to choose the Mexico Riviera Maya for your next vacation is not just for the superb quality resorts and great value, but also for the fantastic tours and excursions that are available in around the Yucatan Peninsula region. This area is teeming with Mayan ruins and ancient architecture that are very popular with tourists. The most majestic of the local Mayan ruins are the pyramids of Chichen Itza. These incredibly preserved pyramids date back to 400AD and this awe-inspiring tour will leave with you many wonderful memories. There are many other Mayan ruins tours you can take as well. In addition to ruins you can also experience many eco-based tours that take you to game and marine preserves where you will find amazing wildlife and snorkeling that is nothing short of amazing. Another popular day-trip for those staying in the Riviera Maya region is the island of Cozumel. You can reach this quaint island by ferry from the town of Playa del Carmen located in the heart of the Riviera Maya. It is a short 45 minute ferry ride and once there you will find duty-free shopping, great dining, and some of the world\'s best SCUBA diving and snorkeling.

If you have taken tropical vacations in the Caribbean or Hawaii and are looking for a new destination to go to the Riviera Maya is an excellent choice that will definitely impress and have you ready to come back to again and again.

About The Author

Barry deCocq is a co-owner and managing director of Tropical Sands Vacations (http://www.tropicalSands.com), a discount Mexico and Caribbean travel brokerage specializing in all-inclusive resorts. Contact at info@tropicalsands.com.

Re-print rights:

Need content? You may use this article on your website, or in your newsletter. Include the following sentence: \Article by Barry deCocq of www.tropicalsands.com\, with an active link to our web site at http://www.tropicalsands.com

An Overview of Liberia for Travelers

2009-04-05T11:40:00.001-07:00

The Republic of Liberia was on of the more stable African countries until a massive civil war. For extreme travelers, the war is over and Liberia is back on the map. Here\'s a look at where the country has been and where it is going.

Liberia means the land of the free. It is a fitting name considering the country was established by freed slaves from the United States in 1820. Referred to as Americo-Liberians, the freed slaves established Monrovia which is named after U.S. President James Madison.

Although there were minor disputes throughout Liberia\'s history, it was generally saved the problems faced by much of colonized Africa. Indeed, Liberia was known for its hospitality, strong education system, booming rubber industry and strong liberal arts. Unfortunately, political unrest led to a brutal civil war from 1989 till 1996 during which the country fell apart and over 200,000 Liberians were killed.

Prior to 1980, the country was ruled by the True Whig Party, which consisted ostensibly of descendents from the freed slaves. On April 12, 1980, Samuel Doe led a military coup, executed the elected President and put the People\'s Redemption Council in power. The new leaders increasingly pursued ethnic policies favoring the indigenous Krahn peoples. This led to massive resistance from non-Krahn peoples.

In 1989, full blown civil war broke out between various factions. The country was ripped apart and Doe was ultimately defeated and killed on September 9, 1990. One of the rebel leaders, Charles Taylor, was put in charge of an interim government. Instead of uniting the country, he more or less declared himself dictator and continued the factional fighting.

A cease fire was worked out in 1997 and rebel groups agreed to disarm. Taylor won elections in 1997 under questionable circumstances. Once again, he failed to do anything to heal the country, instead funding a guerilla attack on neighboring Sierra Leone. Under massive international pressure of the \don\'t make us come there\ type, he resigned and fled into exile on June 4, 2003.

On October 11, 2005, free elections were finally held. After a runoff, Liberia elected Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf the first female president of Liberia. She took office in January of 2006. Her election is viewed as a very positive step by Liberia to get back on track.

As to basic information, Liberia covers roughly 43,000 square miles. The capital is Monrovia and the total population is 3.24 million. Liberia has 40% of West Africa\'s rain forest. Liberia is the second-largest maritime licenser in the world with more than 1,800 vessels registered under its flag, including 35% of the world\'s tanker fleet.

The people of Liberia are known as Liberians. The ethnic breakdown is Kpelle 20 percent, Bassa 16 percent, Gio 8 percent, Kru 7 percent and 49 percent spread over 12 other ethnic groups. Religious break down is Christian 30 percent, Muslim 10 percent, and animist 60 percent. English is the official language, but there are also 16 indigenous languages. Life expectancy is 47 years and the literacy rate is 56 percent.

Liberia has gone from a stable, beautiful country to civil war and back. Although the war is over, it isn\'t entirely stable at this time. Travelers seeking an extreme experience may find it to be a good destination, but it is still a very dangerous country.

Richard Monk is with FactsMonk.com - a site with facts about everything. Visit us to read more about country facts and Liberia Facts.

Hello from Chicago The Field Museum and Pompeii Stories from an Eruption

2009-04-04T12:38:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I got up early again and typed up my travel reports on the free computer at the Arlington House. Then my friend Linda and I made our way to one of our favourite Chicago hangouts for breakfast: the \Bourgeois Pig Cafe\ is located close to the intersection of Fullerton and Halsted/Lincoln and is a 2 story cozy cafe with a small sitting area and patio downstairs, and a beautiful converted living room and balcony upstairs. I had one of my favourite breakfast indulgences: a deluxe Belgian waffle with strawberries, whipped cream, pecans and brown sugar, just a sinful treat on a hungry stomach. Linda had a huge and delicious looking foccaccia sandwich with ham and melted cheese and raved about it as well.

Appropriately strengthened we started our explorations. We wanted to check out a Polish area called Wickertown and took the Fullerton bus west to Damen and south to North Street. We walked around a pleasant neighbourhood with lots of small stores, funky boutiques and chic little restaurants. The weather was really clammy and cold though, so we decided to continue our explorations indoors and head to a museum. On we hopped onto the el-train and headed downtown to the Chicago Cultural Center, the main informational contact point for tourists. One of the local volunteers recommended that we go to the Field Museum and see the Pompeii exhibit.

The Field Museum was originally incorporated in 1893 and was renamed the Field Museum of Natural History, to honour the Museum\'s first benefactor, Marshall Field. In 1921 the Museum moved from its original location in Jackson Park to its present site on Chicago Park District property near downtown where it is part of a lakefront Museum Campus that includes the John G. Shedd Aquarium and the Adler Planetarium. These three institutions are regarded as among the finest of their kind in the world and together attract more visits annually than any comparable site in Chicago.

The Field Museum is currently hosting a special exhibition: \Pompeii - Stories from an Eruption\ and we decided to visit this special exhibition. The Pompeii exhibit features jewellery, earthenware, small tools, everyday objects, even a bathtub that were excavated from Herculaneum and Pompeii. Room-size frescoes and mosaics bring to life the artistic talent of these ancient Roman towns. A little eerie were the plaster casts of victims that had been buried in volcanic ash and when the bodies disintegrated, they left behind a cavity in the ash that was filled with plaster, providing a perfect cast of the victim. We saw plaster casts of a young girl, a young man, two women huddled against each other, even a little dog with its feet up in the air. The plaster casts really gave you an idea of the instantaneous nature of this catastrophe.

Informational videos and a 3-D animated feature provided a visual representation of some of the Roman villas and public areas, giving us a good example of what Pompeii and Herculaneum must have looked like before the volcanic eruption. The exhibition really showed what a catastrophic event this volcanic eruption must have been and how people were caught completely off-guard, unable to flee. In essence, most of the victims choked almost instantly on the burning clouds of pyroclastic ash that rained down on them as they were trying to escape or hiding away in the cascades by the sea.

The show also demonstrated that today the area around Vesuvius is extremely densely populated and a timeline indicated that the amount of volcanic activity has noticeably increased over the last 300 years. Today the area around Naples is one of the most closely monitored areas on the planet where the African Plate is subducting under the Eurasian Plate. More seismic and volcanic activity is definitely in store for this geologically unstable region.

After our visit to the Field Museum we walked across Grant Park to Michigan Avenue since we needed to have one more tasty lunch before we had to grab our luggage and start our respective journeys home. We took the bus up Michigan Avenue, and as we unfolded our CTA transit map to figure out what combination of buses we had to take, the couple behind us and a young lady in front of us volunteered their help in navigating us around their city. With their input we chose the most appropriate route and we both noted that we were surprised at this unsolicited but most welcome gesture of assistance.

Once back in the Lincoln Park Area, we headed back to our favourite place, the \Austrian Bakery\ on Clark north of Fullerton, which offers delicious samples of the type of food that both Linda and I grew up with, dishes that are usually hard to come by in North America. We both enjoyed a typical Austrian dish: \Fritattensuppe\, a clear beef broth with pancake strips, and I had a Wiener Schnitzel with home-fried potatoes. It doesn\'t get much more Austrian than that and we both purchased a few baked goods before we headed off. Linda took the train back to her town in Indiana, while I made my way through the rain to O\'Hare Airport where I was randomly selected for a thorough frisking, and just a couple of hours later I touched down safely on home turf in Toronto.

As always, Chicago has been a beautiful getaway and we both had a phenomenal time. Even the cool and clammy weather wasn\'t able to stop us....

Submit your own travel stories in our first travel story contest(http://www.travelandtransitions.com/contests.htm) and have a chance to win an amazing adventure cruise on the Amazon River.

\Life is a Journey Explore New Horizons\.

The article with photos is published at Travel and Transitions - Travel Stories

Tips On How Frequent Travelers Can Stay Healthy

2009-04-03T13:38:00.001-07:00

Travel for business or pleasure can bring to the fore several health concerns. The most common ailments people experience while on a trip are hypertension, colds, and diarrhea. In order to build up resistance to fight diseases you must adopt a healthy lifestyle. Get adequate rest, adopt a good exercise program, eat balanced meals, avoid fast foods, and food full of saturated fats, and take vitamins and any other medication prescribed by the doctor. One of the simplest rules to stay healthy while traveling is never eat uncooked foods and do not drink water that is suspect.

To protect yourself pack a small medicine kit as well as your medical records and insurance card. To maintain your health be sure to follow an exercise regime while traveling. You must walk, jog, swim, or use the hotel gym. Or you could play an exercise tape on your lap top and do your exercises in the hotel room. The secret to staying healthy is to stick to a routine and eat balanced meals at regular times.

Here are a few tips:

For every time zone you cross, take a day\'s rest to allow your body clock to reset itself.

Avoid alcohol but drink plenty of fluids. The crucial thing is to avoid dehydration.

While on the plane try and rest as much as possible and exercise by getting up and moving down the aisles.

Eat low fat meals on the plane, eat lightly, avoid salty, rich, and fatty foods.

The CDC recommends that you drink only bottled water and that too the carbonated kind. The water bottles must be sealed and opened by you only. Do not use ice cubes under any circumstances and drink out of a straw.

Use bottled water for brushing your teeth and for gargling. Wash you toothbrush in bottled water. Try and avoid using tap water.

Eat and drink anything that is at boiling point or deep fried. Eat freshly cooked food. Avoid meat and seafood if you are traveling in interior areas where the meat is unlikely to be fresh and freezers and refrigerators are not dependable.

While in flight you should do a few stretching exercises to avoid cramped muscles. Yawn frequently or chew gum to de-pressurize your ears. Avoid drinking coffee before and during a flight. Wear comfortable shoes and loose clothing. Include plenty of greens and carbohydrates in your pre-flight meals. Relax as much as possible and take a few deep breaths before boarding a flight.

If you suffer from hypertension, motion sickness, an overactive bladder, weak digestion, or allergies consult your doctor before undertaking an extended trip.

Be sure to pack in your carry on bag a bottle of water, a few snacks especially if you are diabetic, as well as your first aid kit. Pack a light jacket or sweater to wear in case there are great variations in temperature.

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

Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for www.1866Travel.com , the premier website to find help on Travel including topics on online travel directory, online travel planning, air tickets reservation, cruise travel, travel insurance issues, world travel, travel guide, vacation packages, travel agents, travel agencies and make hotel reservation, car rentals and more. He also freelances for the premier Music site www.1888Music.com

World Status Recognition For the Lake District!

2009-04-02T14:38:00.001-07:00

It has been reported in the widely read and admired weekly edition of The Westmorland Gazette that the Lake District is considering seeking a World Status Ranking, thus putting it on a par with the Egyptian Pyramids and the Australian Barrier Reef.

This is an idea which I strongly support and firmly believe that this beautiful part of England is more than worthy of such an award. However, could we not set the ball rolling and invite World attention by declaring our own unique brand of a mini-series Olympic Games with emphasis on local tradition and pastimes?

In this day and age of doubt and suspicion, we would of course elect a committee of impeccable credentials to oversee total fairness in competition with rigorous controls implemented to detect any intake of performance enhancing substances. This category would include all produce of the Jennings Brewery, especially the very potent \Sneck Lifter\, plus Kendal Mint Cake, Sticky Toffee Pudding and the redoubtable Cumberland Sausage. The object of the urine samples is not a case of \taking the p*ss\ out of the lads as suggested by members of the local \pigeon fanciers and whippet racing league\, but only a means of ensuring fair play in true Lake District and Cumbria tradition.

We would remove any ultra competitive terms such as \sprint\, and instead substitute \legging it down Kendal\'s Highgate\. It is envisaged that the marathon would be held over several stages at a non-life threatening pace with spectator participation over the whole or part of the course strongly encouraged. Commencing in Carlisle and following a meandering route through the District\'s well-known beauty spots with pauses at several refreshment establishments including The Drunken Duck, The Brown Cow and The Stagger Inn at Dalton. The event (not race) would terminate at Newby Bridge where tea and sandwiches will be distributed by ladies of The Rum Butter Adventure Club.

Royal assent would be sought to display the Monarchs racing colours on a selection of competing animals and birds drawn from The Torver Ferret Racers Team, The Penrith Whippet Owners and Dog Walkers Association and the Millom Pigeon Fanciers Brotherhood.

Many suggestions have been offered, some of which do not really qualify for exhibition on the World stage. The Kendal and Windermere Golf Clubs have expressed an interest in forming an underwater team which would perform before an audience of sub-aqua Clubs beneath the surface of all the Region\'s lakes and Waters. This would seem to be a minority sport not really worthy of inclusion on the list of events. \Tossing the Herdwick Sheep\ has been muted by an aggrieved fell-walker (a visitor to the area and not familiar with our customs). Here again, not really suitable nor politically correct.

The reader will understand that we are only in the very early planning stages in what could result in a quite formidable challenge for position. (Excuse the competitive tone).

A National Anthem, to be performed at the Opening Ceremony, is an essential ingredient. The tune and words need to match the mood and capture the mixture of melancholy and robustness as so well demonstrated in \Blaydon Races\, \Danny Boy\ and \Will ye nae\' come back again\. A rousing rendition would set the tone for the whole affair, and musicians throughout the Region will be devoting time and energy to developing a composition putting the Lake District and Cumbria firmly on the musical map and the World Stage.

Peter Scott was born and bred in the Lake District of Cumbria, England. Peter is a keen photographer and writer, and now runs a website dedicated to the promotion of the Lake District and Cumbria with his son, David. For more Cumbria and Lake District information, visit: http://www.wordsworthcountry.com

Understanding Adventure Travel

2009-04-01T15:39:00.001-07:00

What, exactly, is Adventure Travel ?

In many ways, coming up with an adequate answer to that question
is like trying to explain the concept of infinity. But I have
reached several conclusions that should lead you down the right
track even though you may find the answer rather elementary.

If we follow the dictionary, the two keywords involved -
adventure and travel - are easily defined. The term travel is a
concept that needs no introduction to anyone, but adventure,
alas, is not as straight forward and hence involves some
cognitive elements of perception.

In other words, the term adventure can mean different things to
different people depending on their very own perceptions and
taste. A trek in the country side might be a form of adventure
travel to some, but to a mountain climber, it is nothing more
than a walk in the country side!

As poet Ralph Waldo Emerson put it, It is not length of life,
but depth of life (that counts).... So life is as you make it
and see it really. You can choose to keep is simple, or become
repetitive, boring and common, or you can make life and see it
as a grand adventure in itself.

Applying this same concept to travel, we can keep it simple,
repetitive and common, by following the masses and going to the
usual big cities such as London, Paris or New York - or we can
make something which for us is extra ordinary, and have an
Adventure Travel. The choice, as always, is ours to make.

Are we getting anywhere?

For some, Adventure Travel
equates to grabbing the whitewater kayak and heading down
to the river, or securing a bungee cord to your ankle and
jumping off the bridge. To others, mixing with the local culture
up the amazon river in the tiny villages there.

If you ask a punter at the Rio Carnival why they are there,
chances are they will tell you, for the Adventure of it. Ask a
diver why they choose to dive and you will get a similar answer.
Ask someone following the Inca Trail and again they will most
likely tell you for the Adventure or it. If you asked me when I
was about 10 why I climbed the hill and climbed over the fields,
knowing I shouldn't have, while my mum sunbathed unknowingly at
the beach, I would have told you for the adventure

Floating in the clouds in a hot air balloon is an adventure. So
is a cruise to the exotic Galapagos. But even whisking the
family away to a nearby theme park can be an Adventure to some.
To some, a truly grand adventure involves viewing wildlife or
spending time camping under the stars. To others, an escape to
gambling world Las Vegas makes their adrenaline flow, and brings
the Adventure demon inside them to life.

Adventures come in all shapes and sizes. Big and small. Soft or
hard. There is no limit, no rule.

Hopefully by now you are getting it. An adventure, whether
passive or active, is the difference between common and
uncommon; between normal and beyond normal. Try camping out in a
spooky cemetery at night and tell me afterwards that, that was
not an adventure! Or go visit the Pyramids of Giza, and tell me
you havn't been fantasizing about our ancient past.

Simply put, an Adventure
Travel is really discovering what turns you on the most far
within your soal. Adventure Travel is only limited to your very
own imagination and physical constraints. It doesn't matter if
your sense of adventure is walking through an unexplored path
between the fields behind your house, or if you climb Mount
Everest. Adventure travel is what you make it - nothing more and
nothing less.

WishToTravel.com - Experience the Adventure!
http://www.wishtotravel.com

What you need to know about hawaii islands

2009-03-31T16:38:00.001-07:00

Tired visiting the conventional holiday destinations? Want some
escapades? Want to electrify yourself? Then budge to holiday at
Hawaii and unravel the inscrutable anonymity of nature.

A Short March in the Past Hawaii Islands were born thousands of
years ago from the underwater volcanic action. The oceanic water
nurtured the islands, which developed huge ecosystems. The
islands are whispered to be older than America and first
colonized by Polynesian migrants who had rolled up from
Marquesas Islands and were a bunch of superstitious and God
fearing people. However, Hawaii was christened as the 50th state
of USA on 21st August 1959. An Expedition to Hawaii

A glance at the mesmerizing red-hot lava making its passage to
the oceans lays bare the fact that the Hawaiian Islands are
still intensifying. There is a concealed volcano beneath the
Hawaii Island in the offing to be a part of the Hawaiian family.
However, at present the Hawaii Islands are network of world\'s
six great and exotic islands namely-

1.Hawaii Island or the Big Island that is the largest amongst
the constituent islands. 2.Maui Island or Valley Isle that was
baptized after a legendary demigod Maui. The area of the island
is next to the Hawaii Island. 3.Lanai or the Pineapple Island
known for its delectable pineapples, is the smallest of all
islands. 4.Molokai or the Friendly Isle that cocoons some of the
breath taking and marvelous beaches of the world. 5.Oahu or the
Gathering Place that grounds the capital city of Honolulu is a
thickly populated island. 6.Kaui or the Garden Isle has out of
the ordinary flora and the bewitching Waimea Canyon.

The Hawaiian Islands are a perfect destination for both the
nature lovers as well the beach aficionados. The former can take
delight in hiking, sightseeing, horse riding etc. in the
enigmatic evergreen forests at Hawaii, while there are
inexhaustible and exclusive beach activities like underwater
tours, submarine drives and scuba diving and so forth for the
beach enthusiasts to have a ball. The wonderful Garden Island of
Kauai crams you with the feel that nature has preeminently
unveiled itself in the form of these gardens. The Molokai Island
magnetizes with its fishing and underwater activities and a
feather is added to the enticement of this place by the
incredible golf proceedings and events all round the year.
Hawaii has nestled some of the glorious golf courses like Mauna
Kea Golf Course, Challenge at Manele, Ko Olina and the like. On
the whole there are more than 80 golf clubs to bathe in the
splendor of golf. Not to overlook are some of the eminent
museums, the nerve wrecking night life and matchless cultural
events like Hula dance, Hawaiian chants etc. on the land of
Islands. You also have the opportunity to gain knowledge of some
of these activities by participating in the respective events.

What the Weather Conspires Hawaii is a place of all seasons. The
weather is stable all round the year with temperature
fluctuating from 80 to 60 Fahrenheit. The months of June to
November are a host to the hurricanes and the ones from November
to March are cherished and acknowledged for the gigantic waves
that whack the north shores of the all the islands. During
winters the breakers can be surfed at the Oahu\'s north shore as
well as the Hoopika beach at the Maui\'s north shore. The north
shore is hushed during the summers or the months of June to
October when the south shores particularly the Waikki and Poipu
beach are enlivened and perked up by the waves that are tossed
from the tropical storms in South Pacific.

Since the place is teeming with tourists all the year round, its
better to get your reservations done. Hawaii has legroom for the
luxury as well as the budget travelers. The complete information
can be accumulated either from your travel agency or the
Internet that has a catalog of all the hotels along with their
rents and amenities.

So hanging on for what gear up to bask in the grandeur of
Hawaii!

The Province Of Alberta

2009-03-30T17:40:00.001-07:00

The Province of Alberta is approximately 255,200 square miles in size and boasts incredible scenery and abundant natural resources. It is situated between the provinces of Saskatchewan to the East and British Columbia to the west, with Northwest Territories to the North and the state of Montana, USA bordering the south.

Alberta is in the Mountain Time Zone which is Greenwich Meantime -7 hours. Between the months of April and October Daylight Saving is in effect and the difference is GMT -6 hours.

There are two main cities, Edmonton (The Provincial Capital) in the north and Calgary in the south. Edmonton is located approximately 300 kilometers north of Calgary, with a healthy rivalry between the sports teams and the populations in general. There are several other Towns and Cities that have a lot to offer including Lethbridge, Red Deer, Brooks, Medicine Hat and Fort McMurray to the far north.

The Provinces landscape is extremely varied and provides a multitude of Recreational Possibilities. From flat open prairies, raging rivers, turquoise lakes and majestic glaciers to the awesome beauty of the magnificent Canadian Rockies.

Not surprisingly, the most prized assets of the province are the Banff and Jasper National Parks, coupled with the pristine Kananaskis Country. Banff is by far the more commercial with the Mount Norquay, Sunshine and Lake Louise ski hills close by. The town is a beautiful place but becomes fairly crowded during the summer and winter with tourist/skiers flocking to the town. Bears are a fairly common sight all around the area and there are often deer roaming around.

The world famous Ice field Parkway offers one of the most breathtaking drives in the world as it winds through mountain passes and past enormous Glaciers and emerald blue lakes. Be warned, photographs and video's do not do justice to the scenery as to appreciate the enormity of the area you have to stand there and take it all in. Once you complete the drive, you will have passed the Columbia ice field where snow coaches will take you for tours on the Glacier. The Town site of Jasper awaits at the end of the parkway and offers a less commercialised mountain town experience. The stunning Maligne Lake and Maligne Canyon are a must see and there are sight seeing tours up the Jasper Tramway to the Whistlers summit (2470m high). Please note that you will need a valid park pass to stop in any national park or to drive on the Ice Field Parkway.

Alberta has the lowest overall taxes in Canada (Provincial tax rate is 10%) and is the only province that doesn't have a provincial sales tax. It boasts one of the worlds most vibrant and competitive economies that thrives on the back of massive oil and gas resources with the massive Oil sands projects in the far north promising more Oil than Saudi Arabia! The recent mad cow crisis has damaged the famous Beef industry though this will hopefully be resolved soon. The Provincial Government actively encourages Business Development and investment; this in turn fosters the economic growth and performance that is leading Canada's economic recovery. Alberta is now debt free as a Province after paying off over $20 Billion mainly due to the massive oil and gas revenues.

As with all the Provinces, Alberta regulates its own Education System. Currently, the education budget is receiving a great deal of attention from Albertans who are pushing hard for more investment. Also, the money previously used for debt servicing will now be made available for infrastructure investment - billions of dollars have been allocated to this.

The Provincial agency for assessment of foreign qualifications is The Edmonton based International Qualification Assessment Service (IQAS). This service is critical to enable Canadian employers assess your education and was also a requirement for the visa application when we applied.

Also on the self regulation list are Driver Licensing, Workers Compensation Board, Social Welfare Program and a Provincial Nominee Immigration Program. Professional regulation is also governed at a Provincial level - all the information can be found through our Job search pages.

The major political concern for the Alberta Government (headed by long serving Premier Ralph Klein and his conservative party) is the Provincial Healthcare system. All Canadians want extra funding to forestall what is perceived as a deteriorating service. I must admit that it is definitely better funded per capita than the UK for instance. The Federal Government is paying out several billion dollars to help out over the next few years and the Provincial Government is making it a priority as well.

Alberta has a rich history from the prehistoric days of the dinosaurs, the time of the first nations ruling the land, through western settlement and the journey towards independence. There are several world heritage sites in Alberta with the main two being the very impressive Royal Tyrell Paleontology museum near Drumheller and the Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump site near Lethbridge.

The Tyrell museum is a world leader on Dinosaurs with some fantastic displays that are a treat for any family. The Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump is an amazing interpretive centre that demonstrates how the native Indians joined together at certain times of the year for the big buffalo jump where they skillfully drove herds of buffalo over a cliff. When successful enough food was gathered for the participants to get them through the winter and all parts of the buffalo were used. Unfortunately, the arrival of the western settlers destroyed this way of life with the buffalo hunted to near extinction.

Alberta is a fantastic place to live or visit and the sheer number of Canadian s moving to the Province is testimony to the lifestyles on offer. With the future promising increasing revenue's from the Oil and Gas industry and massive investment Alberta is the place to be. The majestic rockie mountains provide fantastic recreational possibilities that are virtually unsurpassed anywhere else in the world.

More information on living and visiting Alberta can be found at http://www.onestopimmigration-canada.com/alberta.html

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

The author immigrated to Canada in 2003 and has constructed a free information website www.onestopimmigration-canada.com about Canadian Immigration and life in Canada based on his family's experiences.

A Guide to Platform Bed Plans

2009-03-29T18:38:00.001-07:00

Do you want to try your hand at building a platform bed? For
those of you who don\'t yet know what a platform bed is, it\'s an
exciting, old way of sleeping that incorporates a simple,
elegant frame and a single mattress. Its lines have been used in
Europe, Scandinavia, and Japan for hundreds, if not thousands of
years. Platform beds can be made of wood or metal. If you\'re
looking to build a platform bed, you\'re probably thinking about
wood.

Platform beds can be extremely simple. The extremely simple
platform beds have no headboard or footboard, and certainly no
canopy. They incorporate slats, which, in effect, replace the
need for a box spring, since, because they are sturdy yet
somehow slightly flexible, support the single mattress on top.
The result is that you get a good night\'s sleep, are very
comfortable, and yet don\'t end up with back pains or numb
muscles in the morning.

It\'s ever better for your back than sleeping on the floor. And
now, with the rapid proliferation of memory foam, your platform
bed can be even more comfortable and healthy. Memory foam is a
gel-like polymer that accepts your shapes and bones, but
supports it fully. (It was first used in hospitals, and is now a
popular mattress and pillow material.)

Platform bed plans can be more complex too; you can add
headboards, footboards, canopies, even extra flourishes and
storage units. You can build the storage units as one with the
bed frame, or you can create rolling drawers supported by
castors, so that the drawers are modifiable and easily
maneuverable throughout your bedroom.

It\'s not the most difficult job in the world for a handyperson.
If you want to build a platform bed, you can order platform bed
plans from any of a number of plans retailers. Woodworking
clubs, furniture enthusiast groups, and other organizations can
give or sell you plans. You can also buy plans online.

Kerala Tourism

2009-03-28T19:38:00.001-07:00

Kerala is decorated by its eye-soothing green jungles, rolling hills, mind-blowing beaches, tea gardens and of course its magical backwaters. The amazing backwaters of Kerala have become an integral part of its people. It has given the visitors the opportunity to see the rural and real life in the heart of Kerala. The backwaters of kerala stretch over 1900 kms, providing, drinking water and irrigating paddy fields. The most interesting area in the backwaters of kerala is the Kuttanad region, called the rice bowl of Kerala. The area is probably the only place in the continent where farming is done below sea level, using a system of dykes and bunds.

The ancient history of Kerala is shrouded in the mists of tradition. The most popular legend would have it that the land crust that forms the state was raised from the depths of the ocean by Parasurama, the Brahmin avatar (incarnation) of Lord Vishnu and hence the sobriquet - \God\'s own Country\. Thus during your tour to Kerala you get an opportunity to be a part of this culturally rich country.

Today, Kerala is one of the best-known tour destinations in the world tourism map. From mind-blowing landscapes to infinite intriguing customs, high-intensity cultural life to the educated public, holidays and tour in Kerala is a unique experience in itself.

To know more about kerala backwaters and beaches visit this site http://www.kerala-backwaters-tours.com

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

Kerala Tourism

Love the outdoors? Consider Gatlinburg cabin rental.

2009-03-27T20:38:00.001-07:00

Love the outdoors, looking for adventure, a romantic getaway, or
a family vacation? Gatlinburg, Tennessee, located in the heart
of the Great Smoky Mountains, is the perfect vacation spot for
families looking for outdoor adventure and entertainment.
Gatlinburg and neighboring cities, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville,
offer a wealth of outdoor activites, shopping, dining, and
entertainment. Enjoy a Gatlinburg cabin rental and experience it
all.

There are literally thousands of cabin rentals and chalet
rentals available to choose from. A Gatlinburg cabin rental
gives a family the opportunity to experience the beauty and
peacefulness of the Great Smokey Mountains. You can enjoy
majestic mountain views from your cabin or chalet rental, and
still remain within walking distance, or a short drive, to
shopping, dining and entertainment.

Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge - Sevierville - has a lot to offer for
all ages, hiking, whitewater rafting, skiing, snowboarding,
skiing, fishing, kayaking, and horseback riding. When you\'re
done playing outdoors, take in some shopping at a huge number of
outlet malls. Or, spend a day at an amusement park. Dollywood,
located in Pigeon Forge, offers a ton of fun - rides,
country/western shows, and more.

Gatlinburg\'s Municipal Golf Course has been completely rebuilt
and acclaimed as one of the most picturesque courses in America
with its\' spectacular mountain setting. Whether you\'re on
vacation and just want to relax and play a round of golf, on a
business trip or corporate outing, Gatlinburg Municipal Golf
Course offers the pro golfer as well as the beginner a challenge
on every hole and a great golf vacation destination.

Hostelling

2009-03-26T21:38:00.001-07:00

Hostelling International is a phrase many people do not
understand its meaning. Hostelling is simply a way of travel
through hostels and on a shoe string ie cheap travel have you
ever thought of it? Having worked in this proffesion for the
last 15 years,i have come to understand the real need for a
break out of school,college,university or work to get out and
see the world to adventure beat the stress and enjoy life. Many
people ignore the fact that travel is but a school out of
school,it helps one to expand knowledge on understanding the
basis for which time off from every daily activity is the
catalyst to good health. One as well gets to understand where
the world is going even at this time of advanced technology,its
people and their cultural,religious and more so political
belives which i do belive contributes to the growth and
development of countries and people,the destiny for a better
globe lies within everyone of us. I happened to travel through
Eastern Europe through hostelling and i can assure you that
hostelling is such a beautiful thing that any one who cares
about tommorow and the future of the planet for the un born
should travel the hostelling way an experience that will leave
long after we will be gone. Why do i say so,i was in a train in
paris heading down to a small town called Chearbough,seated next
to an english man heading to the same direction,we got to know
one another and somehow discovered that we had some
commonalities in our travel interests and kind of were going to
stay in the same place. I was a total stranger in this country
and new no one,only this strange young man who seemed to be a
friend but i was alittle suspecious whether he was real but had
to take the benefit of doubt as he seemed honest,it was my first
time so does him. As we headed down just about our destiny he
asked me if we could go for some refreshments after we got in to
our hostel an ideal i welcomed as i am an outgoing person,the
journey was good and arrived sometime at eight thirty in the
evening,we took a cub to the hostel from the train station. We
were well recived by the hostel staff who were friendly and very
informative, after checking in we went strait to our rooms and
got organised for the evening outing. In the process we meet
with several other young people who had as well checked in
earlier in the day and were interested in joining us so out we
went to a local pub where we had dinner actually we had snacks
and several drinks.across the road was a club where they were
playing music and we all decided to go dancing the team became
sizeable and a fun one. Every one was a stanger to the other but
in a short while we behaved like people who knew each other
years ago but was for a moment ,this is owed to the Chearbough
youth hostel for providing a hostel where people from all
corners of the globe could meet socialise and make friends staff
did play a very important role in advising us where to go and
for what which seemed valuable to us. It happend as miracle that
we managed to organise ourselves in so short a time and of
course with some help of the locals who give hints on a plan a
to visit the famous lee st Mount mitchell a very wonderful place
we had sea food for lunch as is the speciality. I do support the
work of Hostelling International globally ,its the only great
way that can make one feel at home far away from home and more
so make friendship,learn of different cultures,values,food,way
of life more so a way to develop and promote peace and
international understanding. Do plan to visit kenya and see the
beauty of it lots to see and do. KARIBU------------ WELCOME
Hostelling in kenya visit www.kyha.or.ke For Travel
www.africahomeadventure.com

Your Florida Vacation: Tips for a Great Time

2009-03-25T22:38:00.001-07:00

You\'ve saved for your Florida vacation, and you are excited! You
are counting the days until you can travel to the Sunshine
State. Or perhaps you are planning a trip to Florida in the near
future.

The purpose of your Florida vacation is to relax and have fun. I
am a Florida native, and I also like traveling around this great
state. Here are a few tips to make sure you have a great time.

First, know the weather in Florida. I have seen statistics
posted that our average temperature is in the mid 80\'s in the
summer, and the mid 70\'s in the winter. As a Florida native, I
can tell you that the averages don\'t reflect reality. In the
summer, expect temperatures in the 90\'s with very high humidity.
In the winters, daytime temperatures in the 50\'s are not
uncommon. I don\'t want to dissuade you from visiting Florida. I
just don\'t want you to be unpleasantly surprised.

Florida is a long state, and it takes time to travel to the
different areas. If you want to visit both the Florida Panhandle
and also Key West, be aware that you will spend a lot of time on
the road. If you have at least two weeks for your vacation, it
may be feasible; if you only have one week, you will miss much
of Florida\'s charm. Instead, you\'ll be in the car, fighting the
traffic.

If you plan to bring a notebook computer with you, be aware that
not all hotels offer high-speed internet access. And the ones
that do offer this service tend to have only wireless access. If
surfing the internet on your Florida vacation is important to
you, call ahead to the hotel and verify the connection you can
expect.

Speaking of hotels, you tend to get what you pay for. Many
hotels offer prices of $29 or lower per night. You will get a
bed and linens, but don\'t expect anything more - including extra
towels. It is usually worth spending a little more money for
another hotel; you\'d be surprised at what a nice room $45 a
night can buy.

If you don\'t like crowds, plan your Florida vacation for the
shoulder seasons. You tend to get a bit better service and often
a break on hotel prices. February and October are the two best
months, and as a bonus tend to have some really nice weather.

In your vacation planning, take into account not only major
holidays, but local events as well. These events can
substantially increase both hotel prices and crowds. Some
examples of local events are the lobster mini-season in the
Florida Keys, the seafood festival in Cedar Key and the
Firecracker 400 NASCAR race in Daytona Beach. I have seen hotel
prices literally double for some events.

If you\'d like some more information and fun facts for planning
your perfect Florida vacation, I\'d love to have you visit me at

http://www.great-florida-vacations.com