Where to Find Some of the Best Beaches in the World

We think that Cape Town has some of the best beaches in the world.
You can choose beaches which are on the Indian Ocean, with warm water, or those on the colder Atlantic Ocean. Neither coast is very distant from the other, so travelling between the two is easy by road or rail.

Most of the beaches, which stretch around the coastline are long with white sand. On some of the beaches like Muizenberg you'll find lifeguards, so they are safe to surf from.

Other beaches, like Boulders Beach, you'll find plenty of animals. On Boulders beach it's the African Penguins that live there. Beware, they can be rather smelly and they do bite if you get too close to them, but don't let that stop you diving into the water to swim with them. The penguins appear very tolerant of their fellow human sunbathers and are quite happy to live harmoniously with us! Let's face it, where else can you get an experience like this?

Seals and fish life abound, which in turn brings the bird life. Whilst sitting on the back verandah of the house we constantly see the more common birds such as Turns, Black-Backed Seagulls, Cormorants, but great excitement happens when the African Pelicans come to visit. Huge jumbo jets of birds, serenely floating along like the QE2 in full sail!

The African Pelicans seem to like to come to visit during the evening time at dusk, staying all night on the sand bank just across the water. It's almost as if they come for an overnight or weekend stay. Obviously like the Hilton to them.

Other visitors that we love to see on our lagoon are the Egrets, Herons and Oyster Catchers. Wonderful wading birds, all with their own characteristics, which you could sit and watch all day long, just wading up and down, dancing their flirty dances to attract the fish, or at least confuse the fish sufficiently for the bird to suddenly dip its head and peck the fish straight out of the water and into it's gullet.

Beaches with facilities, life and people, beaches without anything except for the birdlife. The choice is yours. Often you can find beaches not far away from the hubbub and find not one soul upon it, real desert island stuff.

Spectacular scenery is also the norm for Cape Town beaches. Just think of the bay of Cape Town with it's flat-topped mountain in the background. The whole of the bay is infact, one long sandy beach, stetching for miles around Table Bay.

Next time you're thinking about taking a beach holiday, take a look at Cape Town - you'll not be disappointed.

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by: Helen Palmer

helen@magical-cape-town-vacations.com

Helen Palmer is the author of the website www.magical-cape-town-vacations.com, whose family's love of Cape Town was spawned some 30 years ago, when her aunt moved there to live. Regular visits and a genuine love of travel persuaded Helen to share her passion.

Seattle Airport Parking

Located in the spectacular Pacific Northwest and in the shadow of majestic 14,000 foot Mt. Rainier, SeaTac International Airport is the region’s largest and most sophisticated air passenger and air cargo transportation hub, providing connections as well as non stop services to major US destinations as well as to Canada and the Pacific Rim. At ground level, a key to SeaTac’s operating success is the quality and extensive services provided by SeaTac airport parking facilities.

http://www.parkingaccess.com

Located directly southwest of Seattle, SeaTac International Airport can be reached via Interstate 5 to exit 154, after which you’ll continue west on Route 518 until reaching the airport entry road way which is clearly posted. As a travel planning suggestion consider an online check of weather, traffic conditions, construction delays, and overall airport parking space availability by connecting to Washington State Dept of Transportation.

Due to user demand levels as you approach the SeaTac Airport parking garage, you may encounter slight delays along the main airport drive due to an influx of parked cars dropping off and picking up passengers from the adjacent terminals. Unattended cars pose a safety hazard and potential security risk to surrounding flow traffic, accordingly curbside airport parking is not allowed on the airport drive concourse.

Long term on airport parking at SeaTac is located at levels 4-8 in the parking garage. The 24-hour rate for long term airport parking at SeaTac is $20.00 per vehicle. Travelers who will be leaving a vehicle for more the 30 days will need to make special arrangements with the SeaTac airport parking administration in order to ensure that your vehicle is not mistaken for an abandoned or stolen vehicle. In order to streamline your SeaTac Airport parking, you can take advantage of SeaTac’s automated airport parking payment system which allows you to buy in advance a SeaTac airport parking coupon.

Short term SeaTac airport parking is also located in the centrally located garage, where directional signs will lead you to the short term levels. Short term airport parking rates are premium-priced to reflect the ease of access and convenience at $4.00 per hour with an upper limit of $20.00 per day. All SeaTac airport parking facilities provide reserved handicap parking, and all shuttles buses and pedestrian walk ways are handicap-enabled.

Another short term airport parking option is SeaTac’s Hourly Lot, also sign-posted near the central garage, which absorbs overflow parking needs from the garage. SeaTac’s Hourly Lot costs $3.00 per hour and has a daily rate ceiling of $30.00 per auto.

Travelers seeking expedited airport parking can also call ahead for valet parking services, where service attendants will park your car and handle paperwork, permitting you to immediately go to the terminal and gate. In addition to the on airport parking facilities, travelers can take advantage of the many off airport parking services – some shown on this web site in the listed service ads which you can click through to in order to get pricing and availability information.

SeaTac Airport parking can be paid in advance with the pre-Pay coupon machines, paid for on the day with cash or major credit card or by presenting a valid 3rd party sponsored airport parking voucher entitling the bearer to discount airport parking at SeaTac.

by: Greg Bessoni Greg Bessoni is the President of http://www.parkingaccess.com founded in 2002. Email: greg@parkingaccess.com

Cruise The Nile of Cleopatra

For centuries, the Nile River has been at the center of life in Egypt. The ancient Egyptian civilization relied on the flooding of the Nile to create fertile land for farming in an otherwise desert landscape. Excavations along the Nile have unearthed vast quantities of archeological remnants from ancient times and a leisurely cruise along the Nile takes you through this ancient populated area that is so steeped in history. And remember, you are following a royal route; the pharaohs and Queen Cleopatra cruised the Nile.

A cruise along Nile is an excellent way of visiting scattered archeological sights in a country with less than spectacular roads and airline service. In fact, some quality travel agents recommend cruising as the preferred method of transportation in Egypt. The best time of year to enjoy a Nile cruise is winter, from December to February, due to the hot desert climate.

Think of the romance of a leisurely cruise through such an ancient and historic land. The banks of the Nile are lined with ancient monuments and unusual sites, like banana plantations. Excursions to other famous locations, such as the Karnak Temple and the tomb of Nefertiti in the town of Luxor, are available on most cruises. Other towns that can be touring stops are Aswan, Esna, Kom Ombo and Edfu. Knowledgeable local guides are available and are recommended to explain the finer points of each site.

A Nile cruise can be quite economical. For a three-star ship the cost can be as little as $70 per person per night while a deluxe cruise can cost a mere $130 per person per night, double occupancy. The length of the cruise can vary from 3, 4 or 7 nights. Rooms are well-appointed and meals are included. Of course, deluxe and luxury cruise boats also provide a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, bar and recreation facilities, and gift shops. Air-conditioning is a must for the American tourist who is unaccustomed to the possible one hundred degree heat. And remember, since you are cruising on a river than the ocean, the river cruise ship will be much smaller, with anywhere from 100 to 500 passengers.

Generally, meals on a Nile cruise are served at a specific time, with all passengers being served at a single seating. Expect a full range of cuisine from local to international. Some meals, such as lunch and dinner, may be served buffet style. And, of course, luxury cruise companies employ world-class chefs to pamper the palette.

A cruise is an excellent way for the American tourist to visit a unique and different culture since all services are provided. For example, there is no worry about where and what to eat. Also the cruise company arranges all the tours to the major ancient attractions and provides reputable guides who know Egyptian customs. Thus, you do not need local currency for admissions as these have been paid in advance. By taking a cruise, you are buying a measure of safety in a foreign land, provided that you select a reputable cruise company with a good reputation.

Egypt is an ancient land with fascinating monuments and temples that are adorned with mysterious hieroglyphics. What better way to immerse yourself into this unique culture than to experience it by cruising the Nile like the royal pharaohs.

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by: Colin Hartness

http://www.whatcruises.com/

The Story of the 12 Animal Zodiac in China

One day, Tian Di (The God Above) wanted to manage all animals on earth. He took out 12 chairs and told the cat to tell 11 other animals to go to the sky palace.

When the cat told the ox about it, the rat overheard the news. The rat was very angry and he ran as fast as he could to the palace. As a result he got there before the ox. Tian Di then let him sit on the first chair. The ox took the second seat. Then the tiger, the rabbit all came and settled on the chairs. From then onwards, the rat comes the first in the zodiac cycle. The cat was not in the cycle because he went to tell other animals. Ever since, the cat is not in the zodiac cycle.

The truth is that cats are not originated from China but just imported from overseas. That is another reason why cats are not included in the animals zodiac.

In fact, different countries consist of different animals. India has lions whilst Egypt has cats.

In the Chinese animal zodiac, different animals have different characteristics.

• Rat - Though it has nature of stealing. It is smart and has good
• Ox - It is hard-working and ask for little.
• Tiger - It is brave, strong, and is the king of all animals.
• Rabbit - It is cute and loved by children. It runs very fast.
• Dragon - The only imaginary animal. Only kings can be referred to as dragon. After all these years, people have come up with this description of a dragon: deer horn, fish scales, snake body, chicken feet and phoenix tail. And all Chinese people are the offspring of dragon.
• Snake - Also known as little dragon. Snakes are known to be devilish because of its poisonous nature. However, snakes are very useful, particularly its gall bladder, which is a very healthy medicine in China.
• Horse - The fastest running animal. Before people invented vehicles, horses were the only transportation tool.
• Ram - An animal symbolizes submissiveness and good luck.
  Monkey - Clever, like humans. It is often used to describe smart and clever children.
• Cock - Hens are very protective to their chicks.
• Dog - Although dogs are highly respected in the west and loyal to their masters, in China, they are rude and not respectful. Chinese consider them not a cute animal.
• Pig - The last one in the cycle. It is slow and lazy though they are clever.

It is believed that people born in different animal years would carry their characteristics and this would affect the person's life. That is why the year of the dragon is highly favoured since people want their children to be as respectful as a dragon.

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by: Wong Yee Lee

sales@asiadragon.co.uk

Shanghai Experience

Recently I had a chance to spend four days in Shanghai. It was a wonderful experience and I was not at all surprised to see that Shanghai is really a city which is developing itself prosperously and positively.

I was staying in a three-star hotel in which you can see as many foreign visitors as you can in a HK hotel. When I had the chances to go shopping in one of the busiest shopping streets, I found that things sold in HK can also almost all be found there, except that if you were expecting things to be there cheaper, then you would be absolutely disappointed.

All the meals I had were served in Shanghainese style - 8 cold appetizers followed my 8 hot dishes. All were very delicious. One would notice that Shanghai people are not the meat-eaters in HK. They tend to serve quite a few vegetarian dishes, except that they are able to think of many different styles of frying them in different sauces like cabbage in black bean sauce, stir fry green beans, various mushrooms fried in oyster sauce, etc. Do ask for more chopsticks and spoons if you want to be more hygienic since it seems that they do not have the practice as in HK of using a pair of shared chopsticks for everyone.

They seem to like serving dessert in the middle of each meal and a soup would come at the end. Tea is not served in the same way as in HK. Tea would be served but if you want a refill, you will have to ask for it and so this only can make the waitress busy enough.

We were a bit surprised to see that we were not served any meat buns in baskets which is one of the most famous food in Shanghai. Interesting enough we were told that these meat buns are not classy enough to be served to guests. At the end, we decided to go to the most famous place which serves these buns on our own in Yu Garden - Nan Cheong Man Tou Dian. Remember one thing, do not just go to the second floor because it only serves the typical meat buns at a price of 15RMB for 16 buns. Go to the third floor then you can experience the real crab meat buns which serves 6 buns at a price of 40RMB. A huge difference!

At the end of our trip, we took a chance to take the Transrapid Syatem which took us to the airport from the city in just 8 minutes. It is the fastest rail system in commercial operation in the world. At its top speed of 430km/h, it really gave us a thrilling experience and made the 50RMB worth the cost!

However, one strong disappointment hit us when we got to the airport. Knowing that we still had more than an hour before the departure gate closed, we hoped to enjoy a cup of coffee. Inside the restricted area, we failed to find any proper cafes and the only place we found offered proper coffee at a price of 48RMB and instant coffee at a price of 28RMB.

Considering that the area was not particularly well-kept, coffee at such a price was obviously not worthwhile.

All in all, the experience was a very good one. I am sure that Shanghai will continue to set as a good model for many other cities to follow in China and we are proud of home country.

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by: Wong Yee Lee
sales@asiadragon.co.uk

Gifts in Chinese Culture

Chinese people have their own culture when it comes to giving friends or relatives presents.

When it is a new-born baby, usually jade or silver bracelet or necklace would be good, particularly ones which can make the clinging sound so it will make some noise when the baby moves. Alternatively, some children's clothes, shoes or gloves would be good too. When it is an older child, some toys or stationary would be good.

When it comes to some old people, something practical should be considered. A walking-stick, some valuable food such as bird's nests or Chinese mushrooms would be highly welcome.

For those who go to visit their prospective parents-in-law, something more valuable would be an option, such as some good wine or something meaningful.

If it is a family, a vase, some dining sets or pictures would be ideal.
It is not easy to think of something special for every occasion. So very often if it is not of any special visits, some fruits such as apples or oranges would be good enough.

It is important to know that giving someone gifts should not be a one-way business. Courtesy requires reciprocity. The person who receives the gift should find a chance in the future to return the same favour by returning a gift of similar value the next time you meet. You can do so simply by either paying a visit with a similar value gift or by inviting the friend out for a meal with you paying the meal. Don't do it right on the next day because it may appear awkward.

There are also some taboos to avoid in Chinese culture. Though modern Chinese don't seem to mind them so much, it is still necessary to know what would be suitable in an occasion.

Books would not be welcome in places like Hong Kong or Macau because the pronunciation of 'book' in Cantonese resembles the sound of 'loss'. Especially for those people who are frequent players in race course or Mark six, they would definitely not welcome this idea.

Umbrellas would not be welcome in most places in China because the pronunciation of 'umbrella' resembles separation. Of course nobody would like the idea of separation, particularly concerning your loved ones.

Clocks would not be welcome, particularly on someone's birthday because the pronunciation of 'clock' resembles termination, which means death. No wonder people don't like receiving clocks as birthday gifts.

If you want to give your friends some fruits, remember to buy an even number of them because odd numbers would bring bad luck. So buy 10 apples instead of 9.

Foreigners may find it awkward when your friend says 'You don't need to buy anything when you come here.', or 'Keep it to yourself. I have a lot of these'. He may not mean it. What you need to do is to insist on him receiving the gift since Chinese people do not tend to receive the gift immediately.

Don't mind it if he doesn't open your present immediately too. Chinese people would think opening the present in front of you would be impolite and so they would tend to put it aside and only open it after you have left.
These ideas can only be served as guidelines. Knowing that you come from a foreign culture and being more broad-minded to foreign ideas, Chinese people are nowadays more tolerant to things which are not in line with their culture. So, don't worry too much when you visit a Chinese friend or family. Maybe your exotic idea would bring them a lot of surprises!!

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by: Wong Yee Lee

sales@asiadragon.co.uk

Breakfast In Hong Kong

All people in the world know the importance of eating breakfast and every country has their traditional breakfast for its people. English people have their fried eggs, beans, bacon and mushrooms. Pakistan people have their chapattis. Chinese people have their noodles or congee.

If someone happens to travel to Hong Kong, one can have any types of breakfast one desires.

Because of Hong Kong's inborn nature, one can find typical congee shops everywhere in Hong Kong. Congee comes with different ingredients. You can have congee with minced pork, with pig's stomach and intestines, with thousand year old egg and salted pork meat, with octopus and minced beef and pig's skin (people call it boat's congee because it was used to be available only on boats), and many others. It is one's choice to have a bowl of congee with a pair of deep fried breads stuck together, or deep fried bread wrapped with rice noodles. If you don't like to have anything deep fried for breakfast, you can have congee with fried noodles only. This style of breakfast may seem common among us but may be difficult to be accepted by someone who comes from the west.

My husband is one of those who finds it difficult to understand why people can have something so hot for breakfast in a place with the temperature over 30 degree centigrade.

Of course if you don't fancy anything so traditionallly Chinese, one can also find bread and butter in Hong Kong for breakfast.

To me, the best option is to have breakfast in one of those fast food style Chinese tea restaurants. These places don't only offer tea. In fact, people can enjoy all types of meals from early in the morning till late in the night. Usually in these places, people can have many combinations of breakfasts as you want. My most favourite would be the combination of bread and butter, ham in omelette, a bowl of soup noodles topped with Chinese salted vegetables and pork cubes, and finally completed with a cup of either tea or coffee. This set of breakfast would cost about HK$20. Then one can go to work feeling full with food of both the western and Chinese styles.

As you might have known, efficiency and convenience are what Hong Kong people value. Very often we don't have the time to enjoy a full meal like that. In this case, we would forage inside the refrigerator and see what we can find there in the morning. Fried rice left over from the night before dinner may be one good choice for breakfast. Or anything you think which may be too heavy to start the morning with can be acceptable to us Hong Kong people. I still remember that one morning last month after the Mid-autumn festival when every family was flooded with boxes of mooncakes, a colleague of mine told me that she had eaten a whole big mooncake for breakfast just because she had too many of them at home. I am sure for those who know how fattening and sugary a mooncake is can imagine what tolerance one must have if he can swallow a mooncake in one go.

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by: Wong Yee Lee

sales@asiadragon.co.uk

Wong Yee Lee This article was produced by Asia Dragon. Visit us at http://www.asiadragon.co.uk/ where you will find authentic oriental fashion & accessories, stylish home furnishings & furniture, beautiful ornaments, Chinese calligraphy plus much, much more!

German castles -- 4 of the most incredible ones -- Part II

Welcome to the second part of my special report of 4 awesome German castles! As I already have told, we have a long history here in Germany and very medieval castles. You can find them all over the country, but those four I have focused on South Germany, so that you do not have to travel hundreds of kilometres/miles and lose valuable time.

I am sure you are hot to get to know them now, so I go straight forward to them:

3. Stuttgart

Stuttgart area has, believe it or not, seven (yes 7!) castles and palaces. I only explain one of them, the new castle, because it is soooo huge, awesome and one of the most beautiful German castles.

The New Stuttgart castle was built in 1746 as a representative baroque residential palace for "Duke Carl Eugen von Wuerttemberg" (long silly name, isn't it). After over sixty years of construction with repeated interruptions, the interior and exterior were completed in 1807. So much to the history.

When you are finished with the visit of this castle, downtown is not far away and you can explore this too. You will find many interesting restaurants, pubs and cafés.

4. Rastatt

This town is located close to the city Karlsruhe, 70km in the south of Heidelberg (I mention Heidelberg, because it's one of the most known German city).

The Rastatt castle is huge too and you have lots of things to explore there. It is the oldest baroque residence on the Upper Rhine River and has been completely preserved since being built from 1700 to 1707 (yeah, in the year 2000 it had its 300th Anniversary!).

The area is very beautiful and the town spends lots of money in this incredible castle. After your walk through this residence you have a really short way to downtown and to its nice pubs and restaurants.

I hope you enjoyed this special report of 4 of the most beautiful and incredible German castles. If you want to get to know some more insider tips of Germany or more of the rest of our TOP 40 German castles, go to my website and sign up for my monthly special report at http://www.smart-travel-germany.com/smart-travelogy-germ.html. It’s free but with high valuable content.

You’ll also find some photos of those castles on my site: http://www.smart-travel-germany.com/german-castles.html.

I also really look forward to your experiences and discoveries you have made here in Germany. Send me a message and when they are valuable I will post them on my website, so that the world can participate on them too.

I appreciate you and wish you a great day!

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by: Marcus Hochstadt

ABCs of Adventure Travel

A – Address peel and stick labels for all your family and friends before you go. Then stick to postcards along the way and you'll come home looking good.

B – Bottled water is a must – don't drink anything else.

C – Cookbooks from your travels are always a great souvenir. Cook a dish from one when you have friends over to see your video and pictures

D – Digital cameras save the day; their small and you never run out of film

E – Expect excitement; go with anticipation, not trepidation

F – Food is fun, try something you've never eaten before like zebra pate or Australian wine

G – Give generous tips, especially in poor countries, you'll be so glad you did

H – Hang out with the locals. Get to know a new person on your trip and get a photo with them

I – Inform someone at home of your itinerary

J – Journal every day. Can you remember now what you did last week?

K – Kids love it when you have packed little surprises to open along the way

L – Learn something: Take a pasta making course in Italy, Scuba diving in Argentina or Belly dancing in Bagdad (just kidding)!

N – Note the local artisans and buy something authentic

O – One substantial souvenir is better than a lot of small things. Then ship it home to lighten your luggage

P – Postcards will rescue you when your photography fails. You can never have too many

Q – Questions help you get the most out of all you see and experience.

R – Read before you leave. Read lots of books about your destination. Find out who the local best sellers are, and read one of their books.

S – Scrapbook within the first week of getting home

T – Travel as light as humanly possible. Dragging luggage is no fun.

U – Unpack as soon as you get home.

V – Vaccinations and certain medications are necessary in some countries – be sure to check with the World Health Organization about what you need.

W – Whining never fixes anything – buck up and deal with the differences

X – exchange your currency at the airport or a bank and be sure you understand the value of your money

Y – You are the one who will make or break your adventure. Plan to be positive

Z – Zero in on one or two experiences and squeeze the most out of them. Adventure overload will leave you confused.

For information on travel adventures of the heart, visit www.negstusa.com

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News Canada provides a wide selection of current, ready-to-use copyright free news stories and ideas for Television, Print, Radio, and the Web.

News Canada is a niche service in public relations, offering access to print, radio, television, and now the Internet media, with ready-to-use, editorial "fill" items. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. The service supplies access to the national media for marketers in the private, the public, and the not-for-profit sectors. Your corporate and product news, consumer tips and information are packaged in a variety of ready-to-use formats and are made available to every Canadian media organization including weekly and daily newspapers, cable and commercial television stations, radio stations, as well as the Web sites Canadians visit most often. Visit News Canada and learn more about the NC services.

Eight Great Tips For The Adventure Traveler

1. Embrace the place. Be sure to explore around the corners, go into the one of kind shops and meet the locals. Find out where the towns folk go for coffee and the newspaper in the morning and join them. DON'T have breakfast at the hotel.

2. Plan a trip with a theme and find an expert in that field to give you advise. For example an archeology trip, a wildlife safari, or a trip to discover local pottery and fabrics.

3. Read books written by authors from your destination. Go to a lecture on the country

4. Learn some language. Just knowing a greeting or two will endear you to the hearts of the people.

5. Pack lightly. Too much luggage will make or break your trip— and your back. Remember when you could get everything in a backpack? Check www.llbean for their travel clothes. Pack things that don't need ironing and can be hand washed.

6. Take a small digital camera. It's worth the investment. No film to buy or worry about and when you get home you can sort it all out on computer and make a great presentation for family and friends. Adobe and Fuji can help you get started.

7. www.hobotraveler.com has some fun ideas for the traveler who always wanders away from the tour group.

8. Before you go, find a group or club with a similar dream – and get some like-minded travelers to go with you. How about a group of white-water rafters who have always wanted to raft the Nile? A shared experience multiplies the joy.

For information on travel adventures of the heart, visit www.negstusa.com

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By: News Canada

German Castles -- 4 of the most incredible ones – Part I

We have a long history here in Germany and very medieval castles also. Tens of thousands of tourists come to Germany day in and day out just to see and feel the "charisma" of our German castles.

I will explain you 4 of my favourites and a little bit of their history. If you plan to travel to Germany, you might like to know them and to feel its charisma too. ;-) These 4 castles are located in South Germany, so you do not have to travel hundreds of kilometres/miles to see each of them. By the way, most of our German castles are located in South Germany.

1. Heidelberg

The first one I describe to you is the Heidelberg castle. It is really big and has a secret stairway to walk up to it. Very few people know that way, most of the people go up by the "hill train". I mean, you can do that too, but imagine how incredible it is, when you walk up the more than 300 stairs (each stair has its number on it!) and see all the old houses around you, WOW!

Heidelberg itself has a strong history too and you see that on all the houses and the extremely expensive residential areas. Very famous people live in Heidelberg, such as Steffi Graf and famous Scientists. You should also walk through the, and now I'll give you a insider secret, "Philosophenweg" (Way of Philosophs). You may ask the people out there where exactly this way is, but however when you walk up that way, you have an really awesome, and I mean really awesome view to the Heidelberg castle and Heidelberg itself and its river (Neckar).

2. Schwetzingen

Not far away from Heidelberg (approx. 10km) is a small town called Schwetzingen (yes, I live in this town and I love it!). The special thing here is, that this town has just 22,500 residents, but also a huge castle! When you visit German castles you will realize, that some of them not so big, but beautiful too. The castle of Schwetzingen is not just beautiful, it's awesome and huge! The city itself spends all of the entrance fees (only 2,50 EUR per day) into this incredible castle, and you see that at each corner stone, plant and bloom.

The Schwetzingen castle is almost as big as the city itself! :-)

Its history goes back to Baroque, Rococo and Classicism. It's still apparent today that the irregular complex of the Schwetzingen castle in essence dates back to a medieval castle altered in the Renaissance period.

At the end of your castle visit you absolutely must go to one of the irresistible cafés and restaurants in front of the castle - at the "Schlossplatz" (castle place). There are seven (and much deeper in and around the city) of them and you will find people of all ages there, and you easily come in contact with them. They are really communicative. Most of the young people are able to speak English. More about this amazing town you'll find on my site: http://www.smart-travel-germany.com/schwetzingen.html.

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My site isn't perfect yet, but it grows day after day and I work really hard on it to give you the highest valuable free insider tips for your travel to Germany.

I hope you enjoyed the first part of my special report of 2 awesome German castles. Watch out for the second part with the other 2. I will post it shortly.

Also for further insider tips go to my website. I finished the creation of my monthly free special report. In this report I will describe the rest of our TOP 40 German castles and its histories. You can subscribe to it at http://www.smart-travel-germany.com/smart-travelogy-germ.html.
I appreciate you!

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by: Marcus Hochstadt

Marcus Hochstadt travels extensively to countries, continents and Germany itself as a sales manager and entrepreneur since more than 14 years. He knows in almost each German city the points of REAL interest and gives you insider tips on his daily growing website.

Ten "Travel" Commandments

I. Thou shalt pack HALF the clothes you want.

II. Thou shalt take TWICE the money you will need.

III. Thou shalt pack an abundance of Patience.

IV. Thou shalt NOT count calories, especially on cruises.

V. Your extra large luggage shalt have wheels.

VI. Thou shalt NOT feel guilty if you don’t write and mail postcards until after you return home.
VII. Thou shalt pack a little Caution.

VIII. Thou shalt practice using your new camera BEFORE
you depart on your vacation.

IX. Thou shalt NOT pack uncomfortable shoes, no matter how attractive they might be.

X. Thou shalt have wonderful experiences that will flow into wonderful memories!

Copyright (C) 2003 by Marlene M. Davis All rights reserved.

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Now we can travel like pros ~

The Ten “Travel” Commandments ™ are from our guidebook, LET’S TRAVEL LIKE PROS. For details, please check “What’s New” at our web site.

ISBN 0-9728031-1-4 Trade Paper 48 pp. Only $7.95 USD plus S&H. 8.25% sales tax in Texas. Easy to order online, by phone or by mail. All sales final. Discounts for bulk orders.

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by: Marli Davis

Marli Davis, M.A.S.S., has always felt that she was “born to travel.” In keeping with this insatiable interest, she has traveled domestically and internationally, casually (i.e., camping) and traditionally. Best of all, she can be packed and ready to go anywhere in the world in less than an hour! Here are her secrets. Ms. Davis also brings to this effort many years of professional experience. In the world of academia, she was a university Adjunct Professor of English and, in the corporate world, a Senior Editor and Writer, QA Engineer, Team Leader of Training, Manager of Configuration Management, and Director of Quality.

Marli Davis of MCJ Global Resources, Inc.

Self-help Guides, Individualized Coaching & Workshops PMB 131A; 3941 Legacy #204; Plano, TX 75023; USA Series: NEW LIFE Guides ~ Helping people change (TM)

Web: http://www.mcjglobal.com

Email: info@mcjglobal.com

Tel: 972-491-5441; Fax: 972-491-2428

Hanging around in Thailand

Our trip to Thailand had been long awaited, originally planned for the winter of 94/95. My wife Karin had bought the maps and books and even packed; we were off. The balloon was ready at Thunder and Colt with a heavy duty basket tailor made for hard use overseas. And then they went bust. The delay meant that we missed the relatively short window available for flying in Thailand. So it was rainy old England for most of the winter and a rethink of the plan for us. I had been asked to go out there by Jon Nunns having previously worked for him in South Africa flying passenger ride balloons.

Jon's interest in Thailand comes from several commercial tours he's probably had the most experience of flying in Thailand. Sky balloons agent in Thailand managed to sell one of the first balloons to roll off the production line to a pair of business men who wanted to learn to fly and fly advertising banners in I come again, this time to train and point them the right way.

So after a fantastic summer passenger flying in England, it was off on a Quantas Jumbo from a snowy December Heathrow. We caught a connecting flight from Bangkok to Chaing Mai, a city in the North which was hosting the South East Asia Games, ( SEA games ) our first port of call. Jon, returning from SAGA, was there for three days to ease us into things.
Our hosts had managed to find sponsor's a cell phone company and we had a busy schedule ahead. The city was humming with activity related to the games and it was great fun to be there. We generally flew across the city in the mornings and over the main stadium in the evenings.

The stadium itself was about 10km from the centre of the city and lay under an east facing slope which of course moved into shade in the evening allowing us to fly over the stadium and away into open countryside, the mornings had the ability to take us up the slope and away to the west which was not a good idea as there was about 50km of forest and national park before the next road.

It was always fairly calm and finding places to land was not a problem. We were not alone in the air a Carlsburg balloon had been shipped in from Europe and a Cameron Gas airship from America. Strangely neither thought to visit or call the international airport 8km south of the stadium. This caused some amount of trouble as Thai's love complicated permissions to fly and neither had any. As we did have permission we were contactable and received some amount of flack from their CAA. We smoothed the path quite well for them, prison was mentioned on more than one occasion!

The airship did a fantastic job seemingly never out of the air and carrying a TV camera beaming live pictures from the stadium. During the evening we tethered next to the stadium and the airship still plodded around dropping leaflets.

Thai's are football fanatics and the Asian cup was also held during the games in the evening. Our tethers coincided with all the home team games. As Thailand progressed through the ranks tickets sold out and it started to get ugly at the gates. For the semi final the fans burnt down the ticket tents in protest and several thousand extra tried to get in causing an outbreak of police brutality.

We tethered high allowing us to see the matches and carried PR people, they tended to want to stay up a while as we had the best view in the house!

On the first and last day of the games we flew into the stadium itself, the first flight by Jon, with me on board and the last by myself. What a fantastic feeling when you drop over the edge of the stadium roof and come to a dead stop amid all that noise and then pile out again, really good fun, it comes highly recommended!

The flights over the city were also commendable. The airport required us to stay below 1000' and if we required to fly higher then we had to call them on VHF. It worked well and of course flying across temples at low level was fascinating. Chaing Mai old city lies within a square canel and contains some 300 temples in total. It was here that we aimed to overfly every day. The River Ping winds it's way to the east of the old city and was very handy for big direction changes. As a rule most wind directions could be found and staying over the city centre for an hour or so and then climbing and departing was fairly easy.

I have to say that Northern Thai's seemed more fun loving than their Southern countrymen. To this end they enjoy letting off fireworks and tissue balloons carrying balls of burning rag to keep them aloft. Not uncommon to see 10 or so cross the night sky glowing red when drinking a beer. They climb quite high as well I flew with some at 3000'. On a couple of occasions, on landing villagers let off tissue balloons in our honour. They also flew bigger ones with strings of fireworks blasting away underneath. All good stuff for balloonists to watch. The last night of the games saw the launch of in excess of 1000 of these balloons in about 10 minutes from all around the stadium, and as it was a calm night it was the prettiest balloon thing I've ever seen.

So once that was all over it was off to Bangkok eight hours South by road. Unbeknown to myself we had come to the notice of the Prime Ministers office and were sought out for a job!

The deputy Prime Minister, Thakasin Shinawat, had said on coming into office early in 1995, that by the middle of January 1996 (or 2539 as it is over there) he would sort out Bangkoks traffic problems. He has been pouring millions of Baht of his own money into what is basically an impossible task. He has also been doing all sorts of stunts to show the people that he is trying to remedy the situation.

We were asked to fly him over Bangkok to observe the traffic from the air, this being in their words, a low cost solution. Permissions obviously had to be sought. We were summoned for our first meeting with the CAA on Christmas Day, at 10 O'clock, everybody apparently finding it amusing that I was missing my Christmas day. On arriving it transpired that they didn't really want us to fly as it is a military state and they didn't want me to see anything I shouldn't. The Kings Palace is a no no to fly over as you should never have your head higher than his! However the civilian run Prime ministers office had put big pressure on and they felt they had to relent and by the way, what could we tell them about the other balloon and airship in Chaing Mai ( are you getting the picture that this is a warning). It transpired that we held the winning hand but they really had to tell us they did not like it first. There one and only request was that I didn't fly higher than 500'. Now what! a pleasure. Royal helicopters fly at 800' so that was that. I walked away on Christmas days with a piece of paper that ordered me to fly not above 500 AGL wherever I liked! A trip then to the tower at Bangkok International to let them know what was happening and pick up an air chart. They already knew all about us and wouldn't give me an air chart: military secrets and all that. If I'd known I could have brought them in England before we left!

Thus it came to pass that I was doing balloon traffic reports over the city of Bangkok with the deputy Prime Minister on board and a film crew and five TV crews following through the traffic. We flew two days doing four flights. The flights themselves were pretty exciting to the point that I wouldn't rush to do them again. The tallest building is getting on for 1000' and we flew right between a bunch of them of course stopping all the traffic as we went. For those that know we launched from just above Siam Square and flew across generally towards the Queen Siriket Convention centre and then over the river. The 500' level became a real pain in the afternoons as the OAT was some 37C and thermals were popping off all over the place I may or may not actually flown quite a bit higher at the beginning of these flights and came down when it cooled down, but perhaps I'd set the altimeter incorrectly!

So after all the fun and games it was off to train three people in total: our agent and the two business men. To start with we went off to Rayong a Province to the SE of Bangkok renowned for it's beach resort Pattaya. The guys for some reason where keen to train there. Unfortunately it proved too coastal and the sea breeze knocked out the evening flights and the land breeze in the mornings. Our permission was only for a 25 km square so we couldn't go any further inland.

Not a problem as one of the guys had relatives with a farm near Kanchanaburi, home of the bridge over the river Kwai in the west of the country. It was here that most of the training was done. It was an ideal area for ballooning, being generally flat with occasional 5-600 foot hills popping up like islands. The fields are mainly of Sugar Cane roughly three quarters and the rest are rice paddies. Everything went fine and after three return trips to Bangkok on business the guys where ready. They will be travelling to England to take their PPL's shortly.

One more surprise lay in store. Seeing as the flying into the stadium in Chaing Mai had gone so well I was asked to fly into another with a football to start The Thai football league. Not such a big deal but the stadium as 500 metres from the sea with houses all the way to it. Luck was on our side once more and after two days of strong monsoon winds on the day in question it was calm. We inflated behind a five story building which was right next to the stadium and bang on for the wind direction. The signal for us to launch was a series of fireworks the ninth being our go. At the practices which we couldn't fly into because of the wind we made sure that the marching bands had left and we had a clear stage. You know whats coming next.1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9 Go, we rose from behind the building to see that everybody was still stood there,down between them all I came our official hopped out with the football and handed it to the President of Yamaha and we quickly deflated the balloon,! no way was I going to fly out of that one!

So thats briefly it, I haven't touched on the really infuriating stuff, the stuff thats supposed to add character afterwards. I'll let you find out all those bits for yourselves.

If you are interested in going out there then the man to contact In fact the head man of the brand new Balloon Club Of Thailand is:-

YUTAKIT WANICHANOND
125/135 CHANGWATANA ROAD
PAKRET NONTABURI 11120
THAILAND
FAX 584 0042

To update the story in June 04, the deputy Prime Minister became the Prime Minister and is poised to buy a share of Liverpool Football club in the UK. I have since flown in Australia, Kenya and am now back in South Africa with my own ride business. http://www.airborneadventuresafrica.com

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By: Gary Mortimer
balloonsafaris@hotmail.com

Where I Draw the Line -- The Zugspitze

The Zugspitze is a dramatic mountain above the town of Garmisch- Partenkirchen in Southern Bavaria, Germany. I enjoyed walking mountain trails were I lived three hours away, and inquired about the trails to the top of the Zugspitze. In Germany hiking isn't much of an extreme sport. The trails are well developed and Gasthauses (restaurants) dot the sides of the mountains, so one can practically count on a bier and a schnitzel at or near each peak.

I found that the Zugspitze hike takes two days, and that I could hook up with a guide. I was considering it, when my husband and I had an opportunity to visit a friend in Garmisch. I wouldn't have time to do the hike, but our friend suggested taking the cable car to the top of the mountain. Of course I couldn't pass up the chance to inspect the mountain and to enjoy the view.

The ride up in the 10 passenger cable car was breathtaking. We passed through clouds and between mountain peaks during the 20 minute ride. Once on top, we donned our coats and headed out for a look. We saw several mountain peaks rising above the clouds below, and we had fun taking and posing for pictures out on the rocks.

I could see the trail below, winding its way up the mountain side, dotted with people on their way up. Through the binoculars, I followed the trail to a sheer cliff, and looked closer, not quite believing what I saw. Along the cliff face, a row of iron rods stuck out from the vertical rock face, creating a horizontal path. People were walking on those rods, hundreds of feet from the ground below! I could see that they were wearing belts which clipped onto hooks on the side of the cliff. I watched as one person walked along the rods, then stopped to change her safety clip to the next hook. I was flabbergasted that the Germans, who normally tamed the trails so well, would build such a thing.

After walking around a bit and exploring, I went inside the gasthaus to have a cup of hot chocolate and once again considered hiking the trail. I realized that the reason I hike is: for the fun, the beauty and the peacefulness of the mountains. I really am not interested in the dangerous thrill of an exciting sport.

I never climbed the Zugspitze because I drew a line that I didn't want to cross. There are other things I simply won't do, like lend money to relatives, walk the dog when it’s below zero and host Pampered Chef parties. I love my relatives, the dog and Pampered Chef, but there has to be a line. The line protects my integrity and distinguishes my identity. Thoreau said “The true cost of a thing is the amount of what I call ‘life’ which is required to be exchanged for it immediately or in the long run.”

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by: Theresa Gabriel

Paths began to beckon Theresa when she was 12, visiting the Bridger Wilderness in Wyoming. Walking, dancing, and movement are a part of her, nourished by John Denver's musical challenge for her to 'fly.' Join her 'walking with women' Life Discovery Tours.
Learn more about Theresa Gabriel: Women Summit LLC http://www.womensummit.com/ Life Discovery Tours - Women's Retreats

Take Beautiful Landscape and Nature Photos

We’ve all been there. Spent a lot of money to go to someplace we’ve never been before. We’ve taken the photos and brought them home expecting family and friends to ooh and aah over the shots we’ve taken. You open the envelope and take out the prints and somehow the landscapes and nature shots that looked so beautiful there look flat, dull, and you don’t remember seeing that couple in the corner of your shot when you snapped the shutter.

First thing that you must know is that to get really great landscape and nature shots you really need an SLR with appropriate film for the job, but these tips will help you even if you are using a point and shoot.

1. Appropriate film. I use 100, 200, and 400 speed maximum. Film brand is a matter of personal taste. I use the 100 and 200 when I know that it’s going to be bright out and I use 400 if I think that I’m going to capture wildlife or if I’m deep in the forest.

2. Natural light. I try to avoid using flash. If I do use flash I only use my fill flash. Whenever you use flash you rob the scene of most of it’s natural charm. Think of it how many times did you take a shot because the light was just to pretty.

3. The right lens. A slight wide angle lens in very valuable for landscapes and a slightly telephoto comes in handy for tight shots of beautiful flowers. I personally have a favorite lens 30mm-70mm that is a staple for me and I use it ninety percent of the time.

Now that the technical stuff is out of the way.

4. Decide what it is EXACTLY that you are trying to capture on film and crop accordingly. Not cropping enough is one of the biggest mistakes amateur photographers make. Great thing about landscapes is that they don’t move. So to learn take a few shots cropping closer each time.

5. Occasionally turn the camera vertically. So many people don’t seem to realize that they can turn their camera on to the vertical. Imagine that you trying to get this tall evergreen perched on a rock above a vista. If the camera is horizontal you’ll crop out the tree, if you turn the camera vertical you’ll get the tree and a lot of the vista too. Try this when you taking photos. Take one shot horizontal and then turn the camera vertical. You’ll be surprised.

6. If you’re taking a photo of a large horizon it will probably look flat on film. You need a sense of scale. So frame your image. Sometimes this can be a family member on one side of the shot, perhaps looking out into the beautiful horizon. A tree, rock, or plant can work in landscape shots just make sure that the framing item is not the focus of your shot.

This will get you started. Nature and landscape photography is a specialized area of the art but with practice you can improve your snap shots to capture some of the great places you’ve seen.

If you have some specific questions please visit my Photography and Design Forum at:

http://kellypaalphotography.com/v-web/bulletin/bb/index.php and post your question there.

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by: Kelly Paal

Copyright 2005 Kelly Paal Photography

Kelly Paal is a Freelance Nature and Landscape Photographer, exhibiting nationally and internationally. She owns her own business Kelly Paal Photography (www.kellypaalphotography.com). She has an educational background in photography, business, and commercial art. She enjoys applying graphic design and photography principles to her web design.
kellypaa@kellypaalphotography.com

Carnival in Salvador

Deemed by some as the wildest street party on the face of the planet, Carnival in Salvador, Bahia is the place to be during those five crazy days in February or March. Different from the more spectator-oriented Carnival in Rio, Carnival in Salvador puts you in the middle of the music, the dancing, and the rhythms of the some of the most energetic bands in the world.

Once the center of sugar cane production and accompanying slave trade, Salvador, Bahia is Brazil’s capital of African culture and Religion. Carnival is the time of year when this Afro-Brazilian culture truly shines, with every music group in the city, from traditional afro-percussion groups to more contemporary axe bands (axe is a modern mix of afoxe and other contemporary rhythms), performing day and night. Bands perform on enormous trucks (loaded with thousands of watts of sound) which crawl through one of three principal Carnival Routes. The trucks are called “trios” because the first was a ´29 Ford which carried a driver and two musicians, Dodó and Osmar (today the original car is in the museum at the Lagoa da Abaeté in Itapoan). In the years following the first trio’s appearance in 1950, the bands stuck to the trio format, but have since evolved into a much more grandiose spectacle, complete with enormous bands, costumes, and dancing. All around the trucks is a roped off area called a “bloco”, a type of VIP area with security and refreshments. Outside the cord, usually deemed quite a bit more dangerous on account of the petty thieves and pickpockets, is where the “pipoca”, or popcorn (named for the synchronizing jumping of the crowd) dances and carries on. Another option is buying a ticket for one of the many “camarotes”, which are VIP lounges in hotels and restaurants along the carnival routes.

The Music

Carnival in Salvador offers so many options for different types and music, it can be a bit daunting. If axe music is what you are interested in, check out Margareth Menezes, Ivete Sangalo, Daniela Mercury, Timbalada, or Chiclete com Banana. For more traditional afro-percussion groups, Olodum, Ara Ketu, Muzenza, and Ilê Aiyê are great options. For a look at some traditional samba, check out Terra Samba, and for a not-so-surprise visit by Brazil’s Minister of Culture Gilberto Gil (also one of the most famous MPB artists and a leader in the Tropicalia movement), follow trio Expresso 2222.

Packages

DiscoverBrazil is proud to offer four different packages, each with different camarote and length of stay options. Please keep in mind that any of these packages can be customized to concord with your time and budget needs.

• 8 day/7 night or 6 day/ 5 night stay at the Tropical Hotel da Bahia - This hotel is located in Campo Grande, the Carnaval’s epicenter, and near Salvador’s best attractions - the Historic Center, the Pelourinho, churches, shopping mall, theaters, the Mercado Modelo, and Porto da Barra. 5 nights pass for the exclusive Hotel Camarote (Feb 3-8) included in both packages.
• 7 day/6 night stay at the Bahia Othon Palace Hotel. This hotel is located in Ondina, considered the best place to see the Bahian Carnaval parade. The Othon offers all the amenities of a five star hotel and an amazing ocean view. The only difference in these two packages is a choice of 4 or 6 nights in the Hotel Camarote.

An “abada”, a specific shirt needed to enter into one of the many blocos, is also available for a separate price. Please inquire. Price quoted is based on double occupancy. Flights are not included, but if you are interested in quotes for international or domestic flights, please contact one of our travel agents.

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by: Jason Blynn

Carnival in Rio

Considered one of the most awe-inspiring and grandiose spectacles in all the world, Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, the marvelous city, is a feast for the eyes as well as the ears. For five days, the 14 samba schools (escolas de samba) parade through the famous sambadrome in quest to be the best samba school for that year. Besides being a spectacular display of costume, color, and dance, the percussion coming from the thousands of people playing in each school’s battery literally lifts spectators out of the seats. It is during Carnival that the powerful and beautifully seductive rhythm of Brazil truly manifests itself. Samba is the soul of Brazil.

Carnival in Rio dates back to about 1723, which is the earliest record to be found. Immigrants from the Azores and Cabo Verde introduced the first festivities, which were mainly intended to get people wet. People reveled in the streets, tossing buckets of water and limes at anyone they saw, even emperors. This activity was called an entrudo, intended to purify the body. As time went on people began to dress up, parade, dance, and play music for all to hear. At the beginning of the 19th century, the parades began to take on a more central role in the festivities, and with the sponsorship of a brewery called Hanseática, each parade group (called “ranchos” then) began to organize competitions from year to year. After a brief hiatus during World War II, the parades kept getting larger and more grandiose as the years went by. In the eighties, the sambodromo was built to fit 70,000 spectators and provide for a more organized procession of the schools.

Nowadays, a typical samba school will spend two-thirds of the calendar year preparing for Carnival, for which each school performs one song. Besides having thousands of dancers, percussionists, musicians, and singers, each school also has a team of songwriters who work and compete with each other to compose the best song possible: the one that will bring the school victory. The competition is fierce within the team of composers. Whoever wins is sure to receive much acclaim and fame that year, as his song will be released on the year’s Sambas de Enredo CD, a recording with all the 14 schools’ songs that is released shortly before the arrival of Carnival and is always immensely popular. A typical school will easily spend 1 million dollars a year on Carnival.

DiscoverBrazil offers three separate Carnival packages, each one with a different hotel option. Each package includes all transfers, tours, and breakfasts listed. A city tour is also included, with stops at Corcovado, Tijuca Forest, Sugar Loaf, and other Rio hot spots.

• 5 nights at the Caesar Park Hotel (from February 03th to 08th, 2005). This world class hotel is wonderfully located right on the famous Ipanema beach, and is walking distance from restaurants, bars, boutiques, shopping centers, nightclubs, and cinemas.

• 5 nights at the Miramar Palace Hotel (from February 04th to 09th, 2005). Situated right on Copacabana beach, Rio de Janeiro is literary at your feet when you stay at this traditional and elegant hotel.

• 5 nights at the glamorous Copacabana Palace Hotel (from February 04th to 09th, 2005). The Copacabana Palace is among the greatest hotels in the world. Perfectly located right on the famous Copacabana beach, this Brazil landmark will make your stay in “The Marvelous City” a memorable one.
  Tickets to the Sambodromo are optional. Flights are not included, but if you are interested in quotes for international or domestic flights, please contact one of our travel agents. Price quoted is based on double occupancy.

For more information and price quotes, contact one of our expert travel consultants: From North America, call toll free: 1-800-495-8211 From all other locations: (55) (71) 3113-4206 Or, send us an email at customersupport@discoverbrazil.com www.discoverbrazil.com

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by: Jason Blynn

Jason is a recent graduate of Amherst College, where he received a degree in Music and Political Science. He is currently living in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, working for Discover Brazil and enjoying the wonderful music and culture Bahia and the rest of Brazil have to offer.
patricia@discoverbrazil.com.br

Planning Your Dream Vacation

Planning a vacation is a very important part of any vacation. It ensures that a vacation can be successful and enjoyable, and hopefully goes a long way to avoiding snags and hang ups. Vacation organization is something that once you do it once, you can do it fore vacations to come. To begin I will point out some tips that will hopefully help you in your quest to organize your vacation and/or trip.

Being prepared will ideally save you time and save you money. Keeping a duplicate of your packing list on the computer should help reduce the time it takes you to rework one every time you go on a vacation. Buying things you might need on the trip ahead of time will save you big bucks that might otherwise be spent on the trip. In such situations, it almost always costs more. There should be no need to feel stressed in the airport if everything you need is arranged and prepared.

Setting up is a major issue in vacation organizing. Create a general of things you plan to do before setting out. Write out times, hotel check-in and check-out dates and times, and perhaps a list of actions for each day you travel. Ideally, this will help make sure that you have plenty of time to visit everywhere you desire. What’s a vacation if you have no time to relax?

Also, plan out routes. Check out your local ‘AAA’ store for maps and go online to a map site if it might help. The last thing you want is to be lost in a place you don’t know well or at all on your vacation.

When packing suitcases, set things you require first on the top. Items should be things such as shoes and cosmetics. When you are fatigued from a lengthy trip, you are likely not going to desire to have to go rooting through bags to locate your pajamas. Also when getting packed, try thinking of the activities you will be performing while on the trip. Planning on hiking? Probably bring some hiking shoes and matching apparel.

After packing, take an inventory and match it with the checklist you started with. After ensuring that you have everything and that it is all ready to go, give yourself an opportunity to relax. So travel safely and have a trip that you will remember for the rest of your life. Happy organizing!

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by: Lindsey Storia
Visit her site at http://www.fieldtravel.com.
lindsey@fieldtravel.com

Jerusalem - City of Gold

"It took just 6 days for God to create His wonderful world - so big - so great On the 7th day - He had a rest - He'd worked so hard - He'd done his best He settled back and looked to see, "I need a city.. One that's just for Me" And as He watched in His new setting sun His eyes looked down on Jerusalem.."

Nikki Katz (9)

Jerusalem!

The news will depict the old city as a place of war. Conflict. Bloodshed.
A place where cultures clash, and old and new don't tolerate one another.
A place of political turmoil. Of suicide bombers. Of death..

But there is another Jerusalem.

A city old and rich in culture, steeped in the golden light of God's eye as He watches with a fierce love, and I know that His city will for all times be a very special place.

From Hillel Street and it's quaint coffee bars to the Holy sites where Jew, Christian and Moslem seek and find their roots, to the Mount of Olives where one can stand and look out over the peach coloured Jerusalem stone buildings, the city is incomparable.

A trip to the Old City, and a delightful barter with Arab stall sellers, and the joy of walking back to ones residence carrying a basket of fragrant smelling fruit and succulent vegetables from the suk.. ahh.

What can compare?

I bump shoulders with Haredi Jews, bearded Greek Orthodox Priests and bare bellied tattooed American teenage girls. There are old and young, firm and infirm - all on their own private mission.

The presence of soldiers is but a comfort to me.

I contemplate their absense.

I know in time they will be, but for now I see them as warriors of Biblical times, fierce in their desire to protect Go's chosen city.

It's all good..

God chose well.

Jerusalem - City of Gold..

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by: Gill Katz

Gill Katz

Journalist

Johannesburg, S Africa

gillkatz@telkomsa.net

Frankfurt Germany -- 12 Insider Tips

In the city with its international airport 650,000 humans live. It is a very modern large city and became the ' turntable of Europe '. In Frankfurt important industrial enterprises and wholesale dealer are resident like also many banks. Not only the German Federal Bank, but also the European Central Bank (ECB) resides here.

Famous ‘Kaiserdom’ (emperor cathedral), which documents loved 'Roemerberg’ (Roman mountain) and the historical 'Paulskirche', in which the first freely selected German parliament met, besides the political meaning of this fascinating city.

Yes, Frankfurt is a metropolis and full surprises as well as contrasts. Skyscrapers are directly apart from half timbered houses; culture and commerce form here a unit. In addition, Frankfurt is a fair city, a literature city and above all a culture city: here the cradle of the German jazz scene with many small music taverns, in which you cannot only ease, is appropriate but also into the night much fun to have canned. The moreover one you find many museums.

Frankfurt, because of its skyline also ' Mainhattan ' mentioned, is a large city in the country, between the mountain courses by ‘Taunus’ and ‘Spessart’ and surrounded by a wreath/ring of world-well-known health resorts, popular holidays areas and trip goals.

In the following I will give you 12 insider tips. Before I do it however you do the following: print out this side, so that you have it immediately available, if you come to Frankfurt. It is nearly impossible, everything that I wrote here to keep in the head and it would be unfortunate, if you are in Frankfurt and get to face only the 'normal' points of interest.

Besides that after your arrival you should go immediately to the tourist information. It is in downtown, near the 'Roemer'. The road calls itself 'Auf dem Roemerberg' (on the Rome mountain) and the telephone number is: +49-69-21238800. Ask them for a city map. Without a city map you will lose yourself in this big city, and with the city map you will find everything I mention here.

Bars and restaurants

1. One of the best cocktail bars in Frankfurt is the ‘Strandperle’ (beach bead). Particularly the Caipirinha is unique! In the summer the bar surface expands to a terrace café high over to the river 'Main'.

2. The smallest jazz restaurant of Germany is the 'Mampf'. Since more than 30 years there are free concerts to German meals. Apart from jazz also Blues, Swing, Latin and Flamenco are played. Simply enjoy the good mood and fun inheres.

3. One of the few popular apple wine restaurants with yard garden is the 'Lorsbacher Tal'. It is in the quarter 'Alt-Sachsenhausen’ (old axle living) and has a very cosy ambience and solid German meals.

4. The restaurant 'Pilar' is at the same time a bar. Fine noodles, salads and original Mediterranean creations will be served. On the side panels of the restaurant hang sumptuous baroque paintings, which offer an interesting contrast to the simple Design of bar, leather seat and wood table.

5. In the elevated ‘Villa Merton' (Mansion Merton) you find meals of the all-finest. If it permits your travel budget, go here. The employees speak English and recommend to you gladly the specialities of the house.
Sightseeing and culture

6. In the Goethe house and Goethe museum Goethe was born in the year 1749. He lived here until 1775. The house was outstanding reconstructed and contains paintings, handwriting and diagrams of the large German poet.

7. On the 'Roemerberg’ (Roman mountain) regularly highlights and meetings take place. It is a long stretched, five-angular place and is gladly visited by humans. At this place is the 'Frankfurter Roemer’ (Frankfurt Romans), the famous city hall of the city. It was reconstructed after the war. In the festival room of the Roemer pictures of German emperors are to be admired.

8. In the 'Pauluskirche' (Paulus church), which was established between 1787 and 1833, the first German national assembly met in 1848. It is a place of historical building method and historiography.

9. The 'Senckenberg Museum’ is the largest scientific museum in Germany. You find here a descriptive collection of approximately 500,000 exhibits, which arrange for you an overview of the development of our animated nature over millions of years. It is simply impressing.

10. The 'Palmengarten’ (palm garden) shows a domestic, tropical and subtropical Flora. The emphases of the 20 hectares large park are over 300 orchids, ‘Bromelien’ and about 1,600 different cactus species. Concerts also often take place here.

11. In the 'Frankfurt Zoo' approximately 6,000 animals (650 kinds) live together in extensive outdoor installations and houses. If animals interest you, you must go here. Plan however at least five hours for your attendance.

12. When it becomes evening, you absolutely MUST go to the 'Berger Strasse’ (Berger road)! On 2 km (1.3 miles) you find taverns, Bars, Cafés and restaurants for each taste! Here you surely will NOT become boring. If I am in Frankfurt, this road is a must for me, again and again.
Enjoy your trip!

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by: Marcus Hochstadt

Marcus Hochstadt has travelled extensively to countries and continents like the USA, Brazil, Thailand, Africa and, of course, Europe. In Germany itself he knows in almost each city the points of REAL interest and gives you insider shortcuts on his daily growing website http://www.smart-travel-germany.com. Watch out for his free valuable "Help-By-Step" System and its 6 uncovered secrets.

Egypt : Land Before Time

In recent years, the number of people touring Egypt has slowly dwindled. This is most likely due to the violence in the Middle Eastern region and the few bombings and kidnappings that have occured in recent years. However, these cases are pretty much isolated, and the thousands of people who visit Egypt every year thoroughly enjoy their experience there.

Egypt is famous for a lot of things, from their exotic perfumes, fine cotton, and the mysteries of mummification and their ancient religion. However, I would like to focus on the architectural and engineering wonders of the Egyptian civilization. When the tribes in Europe and Africa were still building huts and shelters, the Egyptians have already constructed monstrous monuments hundreds of feet in height and width. It is this superiority that has elevated the ancient Egyptian civilization as one of the greatest civilizations in the world.

The Great Pyramids of Giza

By far the most famous of Egypt's architectural wonders are the 3 Great Pyramids located at Giza, near Cairo. These monuments are hundreds of feet in height, and have survived the test of time for the last 4500 years. There are over a hundred pyramids of various sizes in Egypt, and more in neighboring Sudan. These monuments serve as tombs for the great pharaohs of ancient Egypt, and stand as testimony to the power and influence of these pharaohs.

When you stand at the bottom of the Great Pyramids, looking up at their magnificence, the feeling is indescribable. You begin to wonder just how the ancient people managed to construct this huge structure with only the help of the simple tools available at that time. And this feeling of awe intensifies when you take the opportunity to descend into the pyramids via the original entrances that were used thousands of years ago. When you touch the walls of the now-empty tombs beneath the pyramids, you will feel as if you were there thousands of years ago when the tombs were freshly carved. (One warning: You might not want to enter the pyramids if you are claustrophobic!)

The Sphinx

Next to the Great Pyramids at Giza is the enigmatic Sphinx. A gigantic statue with the head of a man and the body of a lion, the great Sphinx stares silently at the east, perhaps watching the sunrise, or perhaps protecting the great pyramids from whatever evils that may threaten to destroy them. The Sphinx is just as old as the pyramids, aging over 4500 years (or more, depending on which group of archaeologists you believe).

Almost everyone has heard of the Sphinx with its missing nose, and some might wonder how he actually lost his nose. (Do not believe what you saw in the Disney cartoon Aladdin) Almost everyone has seen many pictures, or perhaps the Discovery channel, showing the Sphinx in various angles. But you have to visit it, to stand there right next to it, to realize why both the Sphinx and the Pyramids are the most famous man-made structures in the world. Just the front paw of the Sphinx is larger than a human being!

The Wonders of the Nile

The architectural wonders of ancient Egypt are not limited to those at Giza. As you travel along the Nile River (incidentally the longest river in the world), you will come across other monuments. Chief of these is the Valley of Kings near Luxor. It is here that many kings from many of the ancient Egyptian dynasties were entombed. Each tomb is unqiue and is a wonder in its own right. Unfortunately, most of the treasure that was entombed with the pharaohs have long been stolen by tomb raiders. Only the well-hidden tomb of Tutankhamun managed to survive more or less intact to this day.

Further south, near the town of Aswan, are the famous temples of Abu Simbel. Constructed during the reign of Ramses II, better known as Ramses the Great, these two temples feature much-larger-than-life statues guarding the entrances. And beautiful hieroglyphs still adorn the walls of the temples.

The few monuments I've mentioned are just a small fraction of the many wonders that can be found in Egypt. If you have any interest in ancient civilizations, or want to know more about the wonders of ancient Egypt, you owe it to yourself to visit this ancient land before its wonders are eventually swept away by the sands of time.

If you would like to know more about the wonders of Egypt, do check out the following sites:

• Pyramids of Giza http://www.nekhebet.com/w_pyramids.html
• Sphinx http://www.nekhebet.com/w_sphinx.html
• Nile River http://www.nekhebet.com/w_nile.html

And if you want to learn more about the other aspects of Egypt, do visit http://www.nekhebet.com

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By: Steven N. Ng

webmaster@nekhebet.com

Steven maintains the informational website Wonders of Ancient Egypt at http://www.nekhebet.com/. Do visit if you want to find out more about the wonders of Egypt such as the Pyramids and the Lighthouse; or mysteries such as mummifcation and conspiracy theories; or its religion and history.

Elegant Holland America Cruise

The Holland America Cruise has since the eighteenth century been the most trusted and loyal liner of America. The liner, which is most sincere to its slogan –“it’s good to be on a well run ship” is no doubt the Holland America Cruise. The homely service of the friendly crew is a sure reason for the passengers to prefer sailing in this cruise. In addition to this, the superbly done interiors no doubt make it a luxury liner. This liner is undoubtedly the Undisputable Queen of the Seven Seas since the last two centuries.

Holland America Cruise started out as a shipping and passenger line and in due course of time has ferried almost 10 million passengers in it’s over 130 years of existence. Every traveler is sure to find a tour option to his specification to any part of the globe through this liner. Holland America Cruise has a fleet of 12 luxury ships sailing to all the continents across more than 280 ports. The ships encompass huge staterooms, private verandahs with fresh flowers and unique art collections. A stroll along the broad deck with the refreshing ocean air and wide expanse of exotic views is most tempting aboard this cruise.

Holland America Cruise’s ‘Half Moon Cay’ won the Editor-in-Chief award for “Best Private Island” in the year 2003 from Porthole Cruise Magazine. In the year 2002 it was rated as the highest-rated premium cruise line in the “World’s Best” award from Travel & Leisure Magazine Reader’s Choice Awards.

Holland America Cruise offers sailings to various destinations like Alaska Cruise, Caribbean Cruises, Europe & Mediterranean, Hawaii Cruises, Mexico Cruises, New England Cruises and Panama Canal Cruises across South America. This cruise offers the best value for your money with dinner and nights at five-star resorts. Here's a few reasons to choose Holland America :-

1. Holland America Cruise has been voted as the “best overall cruise value” by the World Ocean and Cruise Liner Society for the seventh year in row.

2. The ships are nothing less than floating resorts in themselves with amazing entertainment facilities, exquisite dining and innumerable other activities. Spacious ships with royal ambience are the trademark of Holland America Cruise.

3. “Tipping not required” policy personifies the exemplary service and attention of the crew on board and the passengers are relaxed.

4. World famous master chefs dish out exciting cuisines to satiate everybody’s palette.

5. It is always possible to either take part in varied activities aboard the Holland America Cruise or spend solitary moments in nature’s bounty.

6. World over scenic cruising spanning Alaska, Canada, South America, Panama Canal, and Hawaii as other European locales is the fine point of Holland America Cruise.

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by Colin Hartness - http://www.whatcruises.com

Looking for information about cruises? Go to: http://www.whatcruises.com

Fabulous Beach Vacations Appeal to the Whole Family

It’s time to plan the family vacation and you’re running into trouble again. Just once you’d like to find something that everyone will love, but you don’t think you can find it; after all, you have the twins who are six years old, a terminally bored teenager, and a preteen daughter whose idea of the perfect vacation is a trip to the mall. Your husband loves to golf, and your idea of a vacation, frankly, is anywhere you can just relax and take it easy for a change!

You could try asking the whole family where they’d like to go for a vacation, but you could get answers like this:

• Somewhere I can go shopping for some really cool stuff!
• The beach, so I can get some surfing in.
• A golf resort would be nice – I’d like to improve my handicap.
• Can we go someplace where there are rides? And lots of games?
• I think the kids should learn something on this trip; let’s go someplace cultural.

There’s no place that meets those standards anywhere in the world better than Mexico! If you want to everyone to enjoy themselves and spend a week or two without ever hearing, “There’s nothing to do,” then Mexican beach vacations are the perfect choice!

Sun, sand and surf

Family beach vacations have always appealed to every generation, and for good reason. There’s something universal about the pull of the ocean. Warm, white sands that are soft under your feet and lapis blue waters that are crystal clear invoke relaxation and a sense of peace and renewal that can’t be found anywhere else. Mexico has thousands of miles of soft white beaches that are family-friendly with miles of gorgeous surf.

While you relax with a Pina Colada and a good book and enjoy the sea breeze, the twins can be dashing in and out of the tide, collecting sea shells and admiring hermit crabs as they dart into their holes. Your daughter can work on her tan or stroll over to one of the booths where locals wait to cornrow her hair.

And don’t forget the terminal case of boredom – he’s trying out a surfboard that he rented from the cabana at the hotel. Tomorrow he plans to try his hand at windsurfing or parasailing. Your husband is catching everything on film for later.

And when evening rolls around…

When night falls there’s still plenty to do on a beach vacation. Most resorts offer a choice or restaurants from family-friendly pizza parlors to fine dining with a great wine cellar. Or you can explore the local town for a sampling of local cuisine that’s sure to surprise and delight you and your children. If you enjoy seafood, there’s nothing that beats finding a local seafood joint with seating on the beach for atmosphere and fun.

After the sun goes down, take a stroll on the beach at night and look for sea turtles if the season is right. These magnificent creatures are an unforgettable experience for young and old alike.

If you head to the boardwalks that abound along most beaches, you’re sure to find games and rides for the whole family. Your six year olds will be delighted with a Ferris wheel ride with a spectacular view of the ocean while your daughter gets her caricature done by a local artist.

When you step away from the beach, there’s still plenty to do

Beach vacations in Mexico don’t stop at the edge of the water. All of those fabulous beach resorts are located near wonderful little resort towns that have colorful bazaars and market districts, so the shopping is fantastic! Remember to do some holiday shopping, and look for a few colorful pieces of clothing to show off when you get back home!

Mexico is full of cultural and historical bounty, so don’t forget to visit some of the rich historical treasures of the area while you’re visiting. Your family will be amazed by the impressive size and grandeur of Mayan ruins just miles from the beaches. These ancient ruins are a reminder of the area’s rich heritage and shouldn’t be missed.

When visiting the ruins take the time to admire the villages and towns you pass through; Mexico is a rich mix of heritages. Descendants of the Maya, Inca and Spanish settlers all make up the rich heritage of today’s Mexico.
Meanwhile, back on the beach…

After a few days of sightseeing, shopping, and golfing even the most energetic family members will want to relax, and that’s why beach vacations are the best thing going – total relaxation!

Close your eyes and think about the beach and you can almost feel yourself relax, can’t you? Imagine your children building elaborate sand castles in toasted white sands and decorating them with delicate sea shells they’ve collected along the shore. Picture your teenagers lazily swimming on the rolling waves, ducking under the crystal-clear blue of tropical waters to watch fish flicking about around their legs.

Beach vacations can also give you the opportunity to learn something new and exciting together. Try parasailing – there’s nothing as exhilarating as sailing through the sea breezes as you look down on the coast from the air like a seagull! If you’ve always wanted to try sailing, a beach vacation will give your whole family the opportunity to go out on a sailboat for the day.
There are so many tremendous opportunities to do things when your family takes a beach vacation to Mexico. Whether you want to enjoy the sand and sun, try a little bit of adventure, sample great local foods and wines or make the kids squeal with laughter, you’ll find more than enough to fill every day on our fabulous Mexico beach vacation packages!

Finally, keep in mind that, since family vacations usually mean traveling in the summer months, a Mexico beach vacation can be a great bargain. Since these months are considered “off season” in this area of the country, you’ll be surprised by just how affordable a really fabulous stay on a stretch of white sand beach in Mexico can be while your kids are on summer break.

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by: Lori Wilkerson

cbmacgregor@shaw.ca

Lori Wilkerson is a full-time freelance writer who loves her job because it gives her the opportunity to learn more about the world every day. Right now, she knows a little bit about almost everything, and a lot about beach vacations, family vacations, and mexico vacations. Lori once led a Conga line to the tune, “Hot, Hot, Hot,” throughout an entire cruise ship sailing to Nassau.
www.beach-vacations-4u.com

The Dominican Republic The Real Truth

A carribean paradise or a haven for corruption.

White sandy shore lines and beautiful reasonably priced all-inclusive beach resorts.The Dominican Republic can offer you the best vacation of your life.

If you plan to get outside of your hotel room a good tour guide can be worth the money.

For a retirement destination it can be risky because the economy is very unstable and the dollars yo yo has left American products at about 10 times the their prices in the United States.When the dollar started going up from about 19 to 1 to 57 to 1 you could see the merchants in the stores and supermarkets raising there prices every five minutes. But when the dollar dropped from 57 back to 27 to 1 the stores owners didn’t notice and just sat in there offices and forgot to lower the prices. The Dominican people are close to starving to death because of the prices of food in the stores. Which also equates to extremely high prices for a person vacationing in dollars or living in dollars in the Dominican Republic. The tourist can get around the gastly prices by simply staying in an all-inclusive resourt. I had a stomach ache after eating my favorite peanut butter and fried banana sandwhich and went to buy a bottle of Pepto Bismol that cost $1.98 back home and I had to pay $15 dollars. That gives you an idea of how prices are set.

For a bachelor looking for a girlfriend or wife, there is no place better. The Dominican Republic has many available beautiful women. And I don’t say beautiful lightly. The Dominican Republic holds the crown for Miss Universe. Amelia Vega was crowned Miss Universe in 2003. To avoid the wrong girl again the bachelor looking for that special girl needs that special tour guide who is also a professional matchmaker. These beautiful girls are readily available but you have to know how and where to look for them. Again you have to have the right professional guide for the job. See the resource box listed below.

Getting around . You will need the military version of the Humvee. I couldn’t imagine any worse roads in the world. You can go into the most exquisite areas in the Dominican Republic where their wealthy live and you will find mud roads with deep holes in the roads. The wealthy have no respect for their communities. Trash , Dominicans aren’t happy if they don’t have some trash in the street. Even in the most exclusive areas.

The people. The nicest people in the world. They are kind, friendly and beautiful people. They seem to love Americans.They have an American raised and educated President. He was born in the Dominican Republic but raised and educated in New York.

Safety, In my opinion one of the safest countries on earth. Less violence against their own people and tourists than most places you might want to vacation or retire.

Theft issues. They will steal your shirt off your back if your not looking. However, very little armed robbery. Again it’s a very safe country if you use common sense as to where you go.

Bank safety. The government seems to be more honorable than most countries. When A local banker stole 2.5 billion dollars from a local bank the government stood behind the bank and paid back the money, but in pesos. You wouldn’t get your money back if a U.S or Western Country banker stole that much money.

Corruption. The banker stole 2.5 billion and walked away as free as a bird. He is flying around in his helicopters and cruising in one of his private yahts in the French Riviera right now. While the poor people can’t even buy a green banana to eat. Why? That’s the Dominican system. If your going to steal… steal big. You can walk away as free as a bird. Steal a Papaya and you could be gunned down in the street. Both events actually happened in the Dominican Republic. Moral of the story. Steal 2.5 billion dallars and you walk. Steal a papaya and you can be shot dead. You can buy your way out of anything in the Dominican Republic with 2.5 billion dollars. But if you don’t have 100 pesos for the papaya you could be in trouble.

Not to worry, the International Monitary Fund is repacing all of the money, no questions asked. They swept the whole scandel under the rug and have committed to return all the stolen money. You decide if the IMF is promoting corruption. The American Embassy screamed about the scandel. But the IMF is standing behind there decision to replace the stolen money and they are not demanding that the banker be held accountable for the crime.

But lets look at the over all picture. Would I recommend the Dominican Republic for retirement or a vacation . You bet your life I would. I love it. I am a 56 year old bachelor and the young women think I am Elvis Presley come back to life. Admittedly I have a stong resemblence and my name is Elvis and I was born in Mississippi and I later lived in Menphis. However, if you bachelors don’t know how and where to look for the nice girls you can and will go home empty handed without your Miss Universe. I couldn’t possibly pick one wife out of all these beautiful women so I decicided to keep just keep them all for myself. But one day my vacation will come to an end and I will take my Miss Universe bride home to live in Graceland. I’m coming home. The King. Elvis King. Since I can’t write songs any more I decided to write articles. Elvis.

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by: Elvis King

loverboybachelor@yahoo.com

Elvis King was born in Mississippi and grew up in Menphis, Tennesse. He is a retired actor and singer. Not to be confused with the other Elvis. Elvis Presley.

Elvis King specializes in finding that special dream girl or girls for the lonely, older man. His one on one Bachelor Dream Tours are becoming so popular that soon only the wealthiest will be able to go on the Bachelor Dream Tour do to the waiting list and popular demand. Email him at loverboybachelor@yahoo.com or join the group at http://www.msnusers.com/BachelorDreamTours.

Airfare Not Always Fair

Need a vacation but don't want to stay around town? Want to go somewhere exotic, somewhere different? Want to fly but worried about the airfare? Sourcing the cheapest airfare available has been made easier with competition growing between travel agencies as people realize that a vacation need not be all that expensive. Airfare can be a hindrance to the best of vacation plans but it need not be. With so many travel companies vying for your business - securing cheaper airfare is a given.

The airline companies set airfare prices, with travel agencies just higher than wholesale price. The advertised price of an airfare does not contain any government taxes or duties so extra charges such as these will need to be added into your airfare budget.

Aside from the airline companies and travel agencies setting the price, there are many things, which can affect airfare price. The most important factor that can influence price is the final destination. Another factor can also influence the ticket price but not limited to:

The kind of airline class you opt for - do you want comfort or want to go economically. The location of your seat - window or inside seat. The time and day on which you want want to travel. How near you book to your departure date - booking nearer to your departure date may boost your airfare when you secure a last minute deal. Whether your airfare is part of an all inclusive holiday package. More often than not for these all-inclusive package,s the airfare has been given with a massive discount as a contract between the resort or hotel, the airline and travel agent.

Therefore, if you want to save your money, you should consider the above points before you commence with exploring your airfares that fit within your budget. Shopping for airfare is a difficult job, especially when you are looking for cheapest rate. You can make use of the Internet, as last minute deal websites are being developed and there are some great bargains to be had, particularly in regards to airfare rates. Checking frequently and subscribing to these last minute deal websites will make sure that your vacation is long lasting, and memorable without the extra burden of supplementary expenses for airfare! So check around for last minute deals.

______________________

by: Elizabeth Wares

Elizabeth Wares is an avid traveler and has enjoyed many miles of inexpensive flying.
She has created the Airfare Resource Information site Airfare X airfarex.com elizabeth@airfarex.com

Luxury Hotel Rooms At Lowest Prices For Top Holiday Destinations

Whether you like to spend your holidays in the snow, sand or seaside, you can find the best hotel deals in the most popular destinations of the world. Below are some of the most popular holiday destinations with links to book luxury hotel rooms at lowest prices.

Amsterdam
A confident mix of old and new, Amsterdam, capital city of The Netherlands, features beautiful 17th- and 18th-century buildings and boasts some world-class museums, most notably the Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum, home to some of the world’s finest artworks, including those by famous Dutch artist Rembrandt. Nightlife in Amsterdam is as mixed as the city itself, with something for everyone’s tastes available. A trip to Amsterdam would not be complete without renting a bicycle (Holland has more bicycles than residents), or cruising down the canals by boat.

http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Amsterdam.htm

Barcelona
Barcelona is the Mediterranean metropolis of excellence and yet at the same time open to all cultural influences flowing in from beyond the Pyrenees. Its well-ordered and proportioned town grid has given it quarters of unrivalled beauty, such as the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas and the modernist Paseo de Gracia.

http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Barcelona.htm

Brussels
The capital of Belgium, Brussels, is a cosmopolitan city, with liveliness and an appeal that are intimately related to its role as a crossroads for all of Europe. The many aspects of Brussels are expressed in the four quarters of the city. The Lower Town, which extends from Manneken Pis via the Grand Place to the Botanique. The Royal District in the Upper Town occupies the area between the Warande and the Palace of Justice. In the North of the city lies the Heizel with the Atomium and Bruparck. Just outside the city centre visitors will find the Cinquantenaire park and the European District facet.

http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Brussels.htm

Edinburgh
Scotland's capital Edinburgh, is perhaps the country's most alluring city, it is a fascinating place with many historical and artistic treasures, a fantastic pub scene and scenery as beautiful as the Scottish highlands. Edinburgh Castle is a good place to start your exploration of the Scottish capital. The castle is beautiful, mysterious, romantic and a reminder of the city's bloody past. Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is one of the world’s most captivating streets.
http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Edinburgh.htm

London
London, the capital city of England, is energetic, cosmopolitan, hectic, diverse and thrilling. It is the largest city in Europe, and is a mixture of wealth and poverty, of glitz and grime, of imposing buildings and elegant shops, of world-class theatre and incredible nightclubs. Sights not to be missed include the National Gallery, the Tate Gallery, the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, and Covent Garden.

http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/London.htm

Melbourne
Multicultural Melbourne is the second largest city in Australia behind Sydney. Located on the Yarra River at the mouth of Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne is a city of style, of Victorian architecture, of trams, of fashion, food, theatres, art galleries, and leafy gardens. It is a sport-mad city, which hosts events such as the Australian Tennis Open, the Australian Formula One Grand Prix, and the premier horse race, the race that ‘stops a nation,’ the Melbourne Cup. The “Great Ocean Road” is a popular drive for tourists and locals alike, acknowledged as one of the world's most spectacular coastal drives, visitors can view the spectacular site of the Twelve Apostles.
http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Melbourne.htm

Paris
Paris is the economic, artistic, historic, and cultural capital of France. It is also deeply traditional, almost village-like and in parts, a dilapidated metropolis, which houses around 2 million people. The river Seine bisects the city, the Right Bank is home to the grand boulevards and most monumental buildings, many dating from Haussmann's nineteenth-century redevelopment. The Left Bank has a noticeably different feel, it has an atmosphere of Bohemian, dissident, intellectual connotations, and it shows in Paris' best range of bars and restaurants. The Eiffel Tower is Paris’ most famous and instantly recognizable landmark. The Champs-Elysees is the city’s most well-known boulevard. Elegant and broad, it links Place de la Concorde with the Arc de Triomphe.

http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Paris.htm

Prague
The capital Prague, largest city of the Czech Republic, and former capital of Czechoslovakia, is located on both banks of the Vltava River. Visitors are drawn to the 'fairy tale' characteristics of Prague, but this is only part of its lively blend of styles. Prague is unquestionably a city best explored on foot, the entire central area has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city centre is like an enormous open-air museum with an interesting mix of architectural innovation including Renaissance, Baroque, Gothic, Romanesque, Cubist and Art Nouveau styles.

http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Prague.htm

Rome
Rome combines a sense of living history with a bustling, lively capital city. It is endlessly fascinating, utterly compelling and a feast for the eye with fountains, churches, palaces and ancient monuments at every turn. From the awesome splendour of the Colosseum, the Sistine Chapel, the Pantheon, the Trevi fountain, the Spanish Steps, the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica oozes romance and excitement.

http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Rome.htm

Stockholm
Visitors can experience the magic of age-old traditions, historical sites and breathtaking settings in practically every part of this unique country. The most popular tourist destination is the Swedish capital, Stockholm. The grand old city by the water is known for its unique wonders such as the Vasa Ship; its elegance and grandeur, typified by the Royal Palace and surrounds, and its wonderfully preserved Old Town, "Gamla Stan", with 13th-century roots, subterranean vaults, church spires and narrow, cobbled laneways.

http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Stockholm.htm

Sydney
Many visitors would be surprised to find that Sydney, it’s largest city, is not the capital of Australia. Built on the shores of the stunning Port Jackson, Sydney is one of the world's landmark cities, and is also Australia's oldest city. Sydney, the nation's premier metropolis, mixes a flare for groundbreaking architecture, a love of the arts and high-powered commerce. The must-do’s on every visitors list include the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Centrepoint Tower, The Rocks, Bondi Beach, Olympic Park Homebush better known as the site of the 2000 Olympic Games, and Darling Harbour.

http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Sydney.htm

Vienna
Located on a plain bordered by the Wienerwald and the Carpathian foothills, the Austrian capital, Vienna, is a cultural, industrial, commercial, and transportation centre. Vienna owes its spectacular architectural heritage to the Habsburg dynasty that controlled much of Europe for 600 years. Of special interest are the Hofburg, or Imperial Palace, with it's 14th century Augustinian church, Imperial Apartments and Royal Chapel where the Vienna Boy's Choir sing. Many of the world's most important composers including Beethoven, Mozart, Schubert, Strauss and Mahler have lived and performed behind Vienna's Baroque facades.

http://www.hotelclub.net/hotel.reservations/Vienna.htm

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by: Chloe Lim

Chloe Lim is a photographer and avid traveler. She travels extensively for work and family vacations. She is always on the lookout for bargain travel deals and discount luxury vacations.
This article is courtesy of http://www.hotelclub.net, you may freely reprint this article on your website or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice and the author name and URL remain intact.
chloelim1@yahoo.com.au

Avoid Information Overload When Searching For Airline Tickets

No more information overload on travel.

The importance of avoiding information overload when searching for the cheapest airline tickets online cannot be stressed enough theses days. This article will explain how you should take your time and do your research to be able to cherry pick your way through.

What we Internet surfers don't seem to understand is that there are millions of travel sites out there claiming they have access to the lowest airfares. When its time to book your travel plans the first thing we think about is our budget (for those of us who have a budget). Most travelers don't want to pay more than they have to because they still need money when they get to where ever the destination is and the more the better..right!

We all want the cheap flights that are enjoyable, not too many stops, with food and entertainment, frequent flyer miles, plenty of leg and elbow room...all for the lowest and cheapest price you can afford....now that would be perfect dude! Well dream on, unless youre rich.
To avoid information overload and your bottom sticking to the chair, you start with online sites that not only give their prices but also let you compare with others. Narrow these sites down to sites that don't waste your time by having access to just a few special airfares only when the airlines say they have deals. Everybody has a search engine for available published airfares, but the best sites consistently offer specially worked out deals available only to their customers....now thats what I am talking about maan.....

You have to find a small group of sites that can be searched on a regular basis...be persistent and start checking for deals at least a month in advance to be able to take advantage of 7-21 day advanced purchase requirements. How about sites that have done the research for you and also provide all the information you need for traveling....I call these sites "travel portals" and boy do they save you time, not to mention stress.
Some travel portals list too many sites and its like your starting all over again. They list any site that would pay commissions instead of researching and listing those that actually have low airfares consistently, so try and avoid these kinds of cluttered travel portals at all costs...they are still wasting your time.

Searching for cheap airfares does not have to be an adventure. Finding and using travel portals should get you what you need without the sales pitch. Most of us have a budget and don't want to feel like we could have paid much less...if an airfare is out there, travel portals will help you find it......Happy Traveling.

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by: Auckland Alvin Semper Jr

Auckland Semper is a syndicated travel expert and former travel agent. Visit his travel portal at http://www.thelowestpricelist.com/cheap-airfares.html --Free travel tips, advise and information on cheap airline tickets and vacations