Hostels in Germany – The Amazing Discovery of Irresistibility

Would you like to spend nights at the most beautiful, most exciting and most unforgettable places?

Would you like to constantly receive TOP Insider Tips from natives, whose are really well versed - and this totally free of charge?

Would you like to save 50 to 80% of your usual overnight expenses?

If you answered one or all above questions with "YES", read on ; -)
Did you know that the youth hostels were "invented" in the year 1909 by Richard Schirrmann, Germany?

Did you further know that ever more adult and "smart” people firmly build hostels into their travel planning to get hold of the benefit from advantages which they would not receive with usual hotels?

Hostels in Germany offer far more to you than a low-priced accommodation.

Getting to know each other and intercultural meetings are motivating again and again not only grades, groups of children and young people, but also families, seminar organizers and many interested single travellers to consciously experience their spare time in a youth hostel.

Tolerance towards the other one, the helpfulness, open dialogue, and a strong environmental awareness make the hostels in Germany for its guests an unusual and experience-rich destination.

Beside small cosy old buildings or the experience in castles and residences you also find many houses in scenic delightful environments as well as in large cities.

At first sight it has even the appearance at some, that it would be a 5-star luxury hotel. But after all if you ask for the conditions you experience that you have been landed in a fantastically beautiful youth hostel and will feel at ease in the time of your stay.

Whatever you are looking for - whether conference atmosphere, sport possibilities, school experiences without classroom, or a particularly for families co-ordinated equipment - with the hostels in Germany you’ll find the fitting for you.

By the way, between youth hostels and schools exists a long active tradition. You find more about this on my page about the actual developed history of youth hostels at http://www.smart-travel-germany.com/youth-hostels.html.

Anyhow, it is important for them that they do not only offer touristic attractions. The youth hostels above all attach also importance to obtain conscious travel. The social, economic and ecological consequences of a blind mass tourism are very conscious to them. Therefore, you will still get expert consultation and insider knowledge, and all this free of charge. Fits somehow to my website concept ;-)

Good. Most hostels in Germany are located at places, from which you can discover a lot of beautiful things. Whether it is on a mountain from which you have a fantastic view, or in the country, where you can get to know the very German life, or in the middle of a city, where you can admire the attractive and historical points of interest.

There are even youth hostels with extensive wellness supply! By some I am inclined to call them Secret Resorts. (More about Secret Resorts and how to find them in my specific 4-part article or on my website)

If you however attach great importance to comfort, you should better book your accommodation in a hotel. In the youth hostels often no or little service is offered. Service you usually get in hotels.

Moreover, in Bavaria are lodgings which offer overnight stays only for humans up to 26 years. That is, they proverbially concentrate on the youth. You will find however sufficient others in which is also offered a cosy bed to adults.

Today we have youth hostels in the whole world (I even had the time of my life in the hostel of New York City!). You will however see, feel, and smell that the origin of hostels was developed in Germany.

Now still a few numbers of Germany Hostels: world-wide there are more than 4,000 youth hostels in 65 countries, whereby more than 600 alone in Germany. You need a membership card in order to be able to stay overnight there, which costs only 20 EUR per year and is world-wide valid! More than half of the 1.7 million members in Germany are adults. The average cost per night is somehow between 10 and 25 EUR. So you save a lot of money, don’t you?

You find more details on the official website of the German Youth Hostel Association at http://www.smart-travel-germany.com/hostel.
However, I wish you a lot of fun on your journeys!

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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. In his free monthly Special Report at http://www.smart-travel-germany.com reveales more valuable insider tips and travel secrets.

Bolivia: A Geographic Portrait

South America's primary mountain range, the Andes, attains one of its widest points in Bolivia. Here the Andes are divided into two subranges, Cordillera Oriental and Cordillera Occidental. Peaks in these areas are in excess of 20,000 feet. Between these subranges lies the Altiplano which contains the highest navigable lake on earth. Lake Titicaca, which also lies in Peru, is 12,507 feet above sea level.

Also in the Altiplano is one of Bolivia's capitals, La Paz. At 11,700 feet it is one of the highest cities in the world. This region is home to one of the centers of Inca civilization and pre--Inca cultures.

Lake Titicaca is what helps make the Altiplano livable. This body of water is large enough to temper the coldness in its vicinity. Grains have been raised for centuries on the surrounding arable land up to the amazing elevation of 12,800 feet. The area supports a major group of subsistence farmers to this day.

Bolivia has had a troubled history. Aside from numerous internal struggles, the country first lost its access to the Pacific Ocean in a conflict with Chile. It then lost its northern territory of Acre to Brazil in a dispute involving the rubber industry in the Amazon Basin. On top of all that, Bolivia was forced to give up 55,000 square miles of southeastern Gran Chaco territory to Paraguay. Bolivia has reactivated its claim to restore the Atacama corridor, ceded to Chile in 1884, to secure sovereign maritime access for Bolivian natural gas.

Modern Bolivia is the product of European domination, however that influence has not affected some of the Amerindian population clusters. But these indigenous Bolivians still lost their land as did their Peruvian and Ecuadorian counterparts. However, what made the richer Europeans in Bolivia wealthy was not land but minerals.

The city of Potosi in the Cordillera Oriental became well--known for the huge silver deposits in its surroundings. Zinc, copper, and other ores were found there. Bolivia's tin deposits provided a large portion of the country's export income throughout most of the twentieth century. But in the 1980's, tin reserves declined and that along with weak world prices reached the point where Bolivia's antiquated mining methods forced the industry to all but shut down.

Oil and gas are now accounting for an increasing portion of foreign revenues. Bolivia exports much of it gas to Argentina and Brazil. In return, Brazil is commtted to assisting the development of the corridor between Santa Cruz and Corumba, Brazil, in the southeastern lowlands. It is here that commercial agriculture--especially soybeans--is on the rise.

Comparatively democratic civilian rule was established in 1982, but leaders have faced difficult problems of deep-seated poverty, social unrest, and drug production. Current goals include attracting foreign investment, strengthening the educational system, resolving disputes with coca growers over Bolivia's counterdrug efforts, and waging an anticorruption campaign. The country does have its problems, but it also has its optimism.

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By: James Chartwell

James Chartwell has developed Maps-GPS-Info.com which provides practical information on GPS and maps that everyone can use. The website includes product reviews and a maps/GPS glossary. Visit http://www.maps-gps-info.com/gp.html
info@maps-gps-info.com

Find Your Perfect Cottage In Ireland

Take a holiday in one of the world's best destinations – the delightful coasts and countryside of Ireland.

In Ireland, your self-catering holiday options encompass stays in cottages, castles and farmhouses on the coast, in the countryside or in villages throughout the south and west including Cork, Kerry and Clare. You can choose anything from a short break to a longer two-centre vacation. And of course checking for last minute and late availability holidays is so easy. You can search here: http://tinyurl.com/5fxzh

When you holiday in Ireland, you’ll be sure of a warm welcome whether you’re staying in a rural retreat such as a whitewashed cottage, a traditional farmstead or an apartment in a castle overlooking the limpid waters of a fishing lake.

From the depths of the countryside in Kilkenny or Mayo to the Georgian elegance of Dublin or Waterford, you’ll find pubs and restaurants serving an unmatched choice of food and drink throughout Ireland.

Between the rugged cliffs that characterise the coastline of Ireland you’ll find coves along the shoreline where the clear waters lap gently at the clean silver sands of wide, open beaches. You’ll rediscover the joys of simply walking or perhaps cycling along the quiet coastal roads. You’ll experience a timeless tranquillity rarely found in other parts of Europe.
It’s an unusual part of Ireland where you can’t find a friendly bar and a first-class golf course close to your holiday cottage. And you’ll find it hard to miss one of Ireland’s most loveable traditions – that of making music. Wherever you go, in a large town or small village, you’ll be entertained by instrumentalists and singers in lively bars throughout Eire.

Ireland’s miles of coastline, myriad lakes and rivers offer unparalleled opportunities for watersports and fishing. Horses have always played an important part in Irish life, so you will find riding stables, jaunting cars and trekking centres throughout the year.

The cultural event calendar in Ireland is a full one. Internationally famous arts festivals take their place side by side with local galas. These regularly feature new work by local people as part of Ireland’s state promotion of Gaelic Culture. http://tinyurl.com/5fxzh

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By: Jae Taylor

Ireland is a place of profound contradiction and complexity. For one thing, it is at the same time both ancient and adolescent. It's as young as it is old. http://tinyurl.com/5fxzh

Wild Parrots of Irena Street

Dawn. I stood waiting, watching on my roof deck for the moring sun to break over the horizon. I waited for them to wake up. Then, shortly after sunrise, stillness gave way to chatter in a gently swaying palm tree. Soon, about 50 parrots emerged from their roost, squawking as they circled above me in the early morning sky. Thirty minutes later, they disappeared from sight.

The green parrots are Mitred Conures or Mitred Parakeets (Aratinga mitrada), which comprise one of ten species of parrots that reside in Southern California. They have never flown at elevations between 1000-2700 meters in their native neotropical habitat of Peru, Bolivia or Argentina. Instead, these naturalized parrots forage, roost, and breed in Redondo Beach, California, one of the beach cities in Los Angeles County.

Southern California has thousands of wild parrots, including three species of conures: the Blue-crowned Parakeet (Aratinga acuticaudata), Mitred Parakeet, and Red-masked Parakeet (Aratinga erythogenys). Wild parrots have been observed in cities, such as Pasadena and Temple City. Temple City has had as many as 1200 parrots. Early morning commuters have seen parrots flying low over the Malibu freeway. Mitred Conures have been seen foraging on the campus of California State University Long Beach. Parrots have been spotted in San Fernando Valley, Ventura County, San Gabriel Valley, Manhattan Beach, and Palos Verdes.

Records show that the parrots were imported to Southern California between 1968 and 1985 for the pet trade. And between 1981 and 1985, 41,549 Mitred Conures were imported. But pet owners either let them go, or the parrots escaped, making their home in non-indigenous surroundings. Yet, they have thrived because they have grown accustomed to the temperate climate and have found an abundance of tropical plants, including evergreen trees in the winter and deciduous trees in the summer. Conures and other parrots can eat a variety of fruits and seeds, such as figs, apricots, and sunflower seeds and flowers and nectar from Eucalyptus and Coral Trees.

I first saw the conures in a Eucalyptus tree a half a block from my home. I heard the birds squawking nearby but couldn’t identify their calls. Then, one day in late February 2001, my step-daughter and I saw green birds flying overhead. She said someone at her school told her the birds were California parrots. I didn’t believe her. I called and asked Jess Morton, the president of Palos Verdes/ Southbay Audobon Society if there were parrots in Redondo Beach. He replied, "Yes." I gave him a description of the birds-green with red spots on their wings, small patches of red on their head, and yellow spots on their breasts. He said, “Sounds like Mitred Conures.”

From then on, I listened throughout the day for the parrots that separated into groups of from two to six and foraged within a 2-mile radius of their roosting site on Irena Street. Most afternoons between 4:30 and 6:00, they returned to a regular pre-roosting site--four flowering Eucalyptus trees on Vincent Street. All that separated the trees from Redondo Beach High School was a cyclone fence. Of course, the parrots flew over the school grounds and sometimes landed in the trees overlooking the school yard. In the Eucalyptus trees, they ate the juice of the pink flowers, sprinkling the discarded petals on the sidewalk, the petals often falling on my face as I stood beneath the tree looking up at them.

After their meal, they wiped their bills on their perch, all the while chattering, some in pairs, some fighting, some preening (caring for their feathers), some allopreening (mutual preening).

I always knew when the parrots were about to return to their roost because one conure would sound off like a drill sergeant. In response, the rest of the flock vocalized loudly in unison. Sometimes I followed them to their roost and other times I walked home to watch and listen from my roof deck on Juanita Street. They flew in and out of the tall palm tree and vocalized heavily until the sun disappeared. Gradually their calls dwindled to one or two last calls. Then, they were silent until the next morning when the sun woke them again.

Sources:

Athan, Mattie Sue. 1999. Guide to Companion Parrot Behavior. Barron's Educational Series, Inc. New York.

Collins, Charles T., Kares, Lisa M. 1997. "Seasjonal Flock Sizes of Naturalized Mitred Parakeets (Aratinga Mitrata) in Long Beach, California." Western Birds. 28: 218-222.

Garrett, Kimball L. 1997. "Food Items of Naturalized Parrots in Soutehrn California." Western Birds. 28: 196-201.

Mabb, K.T. 2001. The California Parrot Project—Researching parrots in the wilds of California’s suburban jungles. WatchBird Magazine Jan/Feb 2001: 30-31.

Mabb, Karen T. 1997. "Nesting Behavior of Amazona Parrots and Rose-ringed Parakeets in the San Gabriel Valley, California. Western Birds. 28: 209-217.

Mabb, Karen T. 1997 "Population Status and Distribution of Naturalized Parrots in Southern California." Western Birds. 28: 181-195.

Mabb, Karen T. 1997. "Roosting Behavior of Naturialized Parrots in the San Gabriel Valley," California. Western Birds. 28: 202-208.

Nature Alley. "Parrot (and other naturalized inhabitant) Identification." 10 January 2005.The California Parrot Project. 25 March 2005.

Rach, Julie. 1998. The Conures. Howell Book House, Inc. New York Freud, Arthur. 1982. All About Parrots. Howell Book House, Inc. New York.

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By: Diana Clarke

Diana Clarke is a California credentialed teacher. Her work has appeared in publications, such as the San Jose Mercury News, Cupertino Courier, and Saratoga News. Visit her website at www.yourskinandsun.com to read more great articles

Picking Your Golf Equipment

Looking for quality golf equipment but not sure you want to spend a ton on it? Are you new and starting out and need some new golf equipment but don't know where to begin? Finding the right golf equipment may seem like a challenge, but it really does not have to be. In fact, if you know what you need, your task could be quite easy. Looking for quality golf equipment but not sure you want to spend a ton on it? Are you new and starting out and need some new golf equipment but don't know where to begin? Finding the right golf equipment may seem like a challenge, but it really does not have to be. In fact, if you know what you need, your task could be quite easy.

The first step in purchasing golf equipment is to determine your budget. Once you get to that golf store and get the best club in your hand, you may just overspend. Knowing how much you can and should spend on golf equipment will keep your wallet as happy as you will be with your golf equipment. After determining this, you will need to begin looking. The basic equipment that all good golfers have is a set of clubs, tees, gloves, and golf balls. There is much speculation about which types of clubs you need and what material they should be made out of. The best bet to determining the right equipment for you is to try it out and get a feel for it. A basic set of golf clubs will include woods, irons, putters, and wedges. The types of these clubs that you end up purchasing will depend on how they feel in your hand and through your swing. Other golf equipment to consider includes shoes, balls, gloves, clothing and more.

Golf equipment is widely available. You can go into any sporting goods store and find quality merchandise. You can also go to some of the department stores and find golf equipment there. There are even golf equipment stores that can provide you with many choices. Still want a better selection? Are you looking for the best value for your money? Use the internet to search from site to site to find the right golf equipment at the right prices. The basic golf equipment should be the first order of business for you. Once you have these items you can move into getting the other golf equipment you may find.

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By: David Kunstek

Webmaster and author of http://www.golf-web-tech.com. This article may be reproduced as long as a Live link back to http://www.golf-web-tech.com is present. admin@golf-web-tech.com

Cruising: Fun & Affordable

Many people pass up going on a cruise for their vacation because of the myth that it is expensive. However, cruising has become a fun and economical way to vacation for young and old alike. It could be considered a downright bargain compared to staying at a resort, hotel, or private villa.
Cruising is not bound to any particular age group either. There are fun activities for all ages aboard a ship, catering to small children, their parents, singles, middle-aged groups to elderly grandparents. However, a cruise that is longer than a week or that has destination ports further north will typically have an older crowd.

The first thing people think of when cruising is mentioned is of course food. A person on a cruise is typically assigned a dining room, dinner time and specific table companions to sit with for the duration of the cruise. There they are treated to extraordinary culinary delights and fine wines. If it is a week long cruise there will be probably be one or two formal nights where people dress in suits and cocktail dresses.

There are more choices on where to dine than the dining room. Many ships have smaller bistro-like restaurants, buffets many times during the day, snack bars, in-cabin service and many now have 24- hour pizzerias on board. Included in the price of the cruise are usually fruit juices, coffee, hot chocolate, water and teas. A slight downfall for cruising is soft-drinks and alcoholic beverages are at extra cost.

After eating all of the food that a cruise has to offer there are numerous activities, physical and social to do. Most cruises have fully equipped gyms and exercise classes. Many even have rock walls, rollerblade tracks, and jogging runs. There are always people playing games of volleyball, basketball and on a warmer cruise they can work off the calories by taking a swim.

There is more fun to be had aboard a cruise than just eating and exercising. As previously mentioned there are usually many pools. Some pools even have water slides. Days and nights can be spent gambling in casinos, drinking at the numerous bars and lounges, attending one of the Las Vegas-like shows, shopping, or sitting in the video and book libraries or reading rooms.

Pampering oneself can also be a part of the cruising experience. Most shipboard spas rival spas on land. There are many options for obtaining facials, manicure, pedicures, hair salon treatments and massages. Appointments go fast so they must be booked early. Usually free are the steam rooms, saunas and hot tubs.

Unless it is a cruise to nowhere, the ship will be stopping at exciting ports of call. If the ship is docked cruisers can just walk off the gangway. ff the ship is too large, motorized launches, called tenders, are used as ferries to get cruisers ashore. Each ship has organized excursions at each port of call that are available for sign up for before landing at the destination. They range in price from cheap to expensive depending on the type of activity desired. They can be a day at the beach to horseback riding, jeep excursions, shopping trips to nighttime clubbing. If a cruiser is not interested in hanging out with a group from the ship they can always opt to explore the port of call on their own.

As shown in this article, cruising is a great way to enjoy a vacation. Along with its affordability, it is extremely exciting with many fun activities available to enjoy.

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By: Thomas Schoonover

Thomas Schoonover is a leading travel industry analyst and trip planner. He is well known in the industry for his worldwide hotel reviews. You may go to http://www.tripfox.com to see his hotel reviews as well as additional travel articles. Also, call 1-888-TripFox for guaranteed lowest hotel rates!

(NOTE TO WEBMASTERS: You may reprint this article in your newsletter or website as long as the URL to TripFox.com is active and the 888# is included).

Unforgettable White Mountains Vacations – The Most Scenic 100 Miles in New England

This amazing drive through the White Mountains of New Hampshire has a gorgeous vista at every turn, oodles and oodles of family vacation fun, and a visit to the home of the world wind speed record. Just keep reading to discover a remarkable trip on your White Mountains vacation.

The White Mountain National Forest is about a 4-hour drive north of Boston, Massachusetts. Deep in New Hampshire, the mountains are part of the Appalachian Mountain system that covers the Eastern United States. Within the forest park is the White Mountains Trail, and it’s a drive that’s arguably the most scenic 100 miles in New England. And so you’re in for a real treat. Let’s get started…

White Mountain National Forest Visitor Center…

Most people begin the drive from the White Mountains Visitor Center in North Woodstock on route 112 and head out on route 3N to the Franconia Notch area.

If you’re traveling with kids then you’ll want to pencil dates back in this area at the Clark’s Trading Post, and The Whale’s Tale attractions -- both in Lincoln on route 3N. At Clark’s you can see Bears, ride a steam train, climb towers, and generally keep the young ones happy. The Whale’s Tale is a water park with a wave pool, picnic areas, changing areas, and live entertainment.

Back on the road head north towards Franconia Notch. This is a good stretch of road to have your camera at the ready. I can’t list all the stops you can make, but I’ll mention just two of my favorites in this area of the White Mountains.

The Flume Gorge was formed over 200 million years ago when the White Mountains were molten rock. It just so happens in this area when it cooled quickly, softer material was forced into the fractures that formed. These fractures wore down with natural erosion much quicker that the surrounding granite rock -- leaving the gorge. And so now you get to enjoy a geological wonder at the base of beautiful Mount Liberty.

The Gorge has a visitor center where your tour starts and ends. And don’t forget to check out the covered bridge which crosses the Pemigewasset River -- it’s one of the oldest on the White Mountains Trail.

The famous attraction you can’t see anymore…

You’re probably thinking why would I mention something you can’t see anymore? Well, the truth is... you can see some of it… but you’ll have to imagine the rest.

The Old Man of the Mountain was a jagged rock profile formed over 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age.

On May 3, 2003, admirers of the White Mountains region around the world were devastated, when this world famous monument to nature crumbled and crashed to the bottom of Cannon Mountain. How could this be everybody asked? Aren’t rocks and mountains... forever? Well, this incident proves they aren’t. Despite years of gargantuan efforts by many people to preserve it, centuries of the harsh winter climate found in the White Mountains, finally took its toll. It’s worth a stop as you journey on the White Mountains Trail to look and wonder at what once was. To me it’s a reminder that nature doesn’t play favorites.

Continue to head north on Route 3 until it joins Route 302 and follow 302 towards Bretton Woods. Here the mountains get taller and taller until eventually you see the grand daddy of them all -- Mount Washington at 6,288 feet.

The Roof of the White Mountain National Forest…

Depending on time available, you’ve got four options for experiencing this gift in the White Mountain National Forest. Just stare -- hey, there’s nothing wrong with that. Take the Cog Railway train ride to the top. Drive the auto road to the summit -- the quickest way. And of course you can hike if you’re well prepared. But just promise me you won't hike to the top unless you are in great condition and with somebody. This mountain claims lives every year as conditions in this area can deteriorate dramatically within minutes.

Is it worth getting to the summit?

All I’ll say here is… the view is stunning. Visit the museum at the top and learn about the day in 1934 when the highest wind speed ever recorded on earth was taken -- 231 MPH. You’ll learn why its unique geographic position provides the mountain with the worst weather on earth.
Now get back onto Route 302 and head south to the town of North Conway.

The North Conway Scenic Area…

Schedule enough time to take the scenic train, which you board in North Conway. The station is an authentic Victorian style -- it's hard to miss and smack in the town center.

The train rides are ambles and chugs along the scenic valleys and notches in the surrounding area. And as you wind through the rolling Mount Washington valley and squeeze through the notches under the gentle clatter of steel against steel, consider this was once the main form of transportation to the area, from Boston. Most of the trains they run are diesel locomotives now, but on special weekends and during fall they use their popular steam locomotive.

The valley train is a 55-minute roundtrip, and the Notch train is 5 hours. Both have a first-class car if you want to have a different experience. The notch train has a dome car as well, where you get magnificent views of the steep ravines and sheer bluffs. I’m not sure my kids have the patience for a 5-hour train ride so we’ve always taken the shorter excursion. But as I love trains -- especially steam trains -- one day…

The trains usually run from mid-June until mid-October. These scenic trains are very popular throughout the season and they accept advanced reservations for the Notch train and dinning cars on both trains.
This area of the White Mountains is full of shopping outlets, and also has plenty for the kids to do. Story Land and Heritage-New Hampshire, are right next to each other on route 16 in Glen. You and the kids will enjoy themed rides, live shows, play areas, and meeting storyboard characters.
The Kancamagus Highway…

Let’s finish up our White Mountains Trail tour by joining back up with route 112 at Conway and driving back to the White Mountain National Forest Visitor Center.

This part of the trail is known as the Kancamagus highway. There are just numerous photo shoot opportunities along this highway. In fact, your challenge is having enough daylight left in this trip so you can take pictures.

But you can always come back tomorrow, right? No prizes for doing and seeing everything in one day. You are booking your White Mountains vacation for at least a week... aren’t you?

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By: Cliff Calderwood

Cliff Calderwood is the owner and contributing writer of www.New-England-Vacations-Guide.com.

Unforgettable Cape Cod Vacations: The National Seashore Gift

Take a captivating trip through the Cape Cod National Seashore with miles of white sandy beaches, trails and hikes to take your breath away, and majestic dunes. Just keep reading and you can visit all those places right now.

The Cape Cod National Seashore is a 4,308-acre park set aside by an act of congress in 1961 to preserve and protect a unique geological area and wild life habitat of New England.

Cape Cod is about 60 miles south of Boston, Massachusetts. It was formed when the last glaciers to visit the region melted about 12,000-years ago leaving a large lake. Because of special features and material surrounding the glacial lake, the water drained out exposing the sediment and deposits left by the glaciers from earlier times.

With the rising sea level and the protection from the battering ocean provided by Georges Bank gone, nature started to reshape the whole of Cape Cod -- especially the Atlantic facing National Seashore area.

The relentless shaping of the Cape continues even today. But this is the place to come to escape. This is the place to come to experience nature.
So let’s take a brief Cape Cod vacations trip together. Are you ready?
Nauset Beach…

The first stop on your trip is Nauset Beach in the town of Orleans.
The entrance to Nauset beach is located in East Orleans at the end of Beach Road, where there’s a large parking lot. The lot is about 2 miles from Routes 6/6A. During the summer months you’ll pay to use the lot.

Protection is the name of the game at Nauset not just for the dunes, but the birds nesting in the spring. Always pay close attention to beach erosion and bird nesting protection signs anywhere during your Cape Cod vacations. Heeding the signs means the area could still be here next time you visit.

At the entrance to the beach you can turn left and walk North, or take the South walk by turning right. Both walks offer spectacular views and hidden areas of the Cape even many residents haven’t discovered. Time your walks to be at low tide so you’ll be walking on exposed sand bars on the North walk, or have a dry crossing to Pochet Island on the South walk.
In the summer Nauset beach is very popular with vacationers, but there always seems to be room even at the busiest times. Swimming is good -- but stay close to the shore. It’s the Atlantic Ocean so it’ll be a little cooler than on the Cape Cod Bay side or the Nantucket Sound beaches.
National Seashore Eastham Visitors Center…

The Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham is your next Cape Cod vacations stop. It'll orientate you to the park, and provides short films, a museum, and free maps for hiking and biking trails.

Note: The Salt Pond Visitor Center building has been closed for renovations since 2003. It’s due to reopen in 2005 – in fact right about now!
Starting from the visitor center is the short and easy 1-mile loop Nauset Marsh Trail that follows a path around the salt pond and Nauset Marsh before returning to the visitor center. It’s a varied terrain of salt marsh grasses, juniper and bayberry bushes, and a great place for bird watching due to the proximity of the marsh.

The salt pond itself is a glacial kettle pond that was once freshwater but the ocean has seeped through.

The Lighthouse Beaches…

Two wonderful beaches to visit in the Eastham area are Coast Guard Beach and Nauset Light Beach.

Coast Guard Beach can be reached by bike from the bike trail from the Salt Pond Visitor Center, or by car from Nauset Road off Route 6 directly after the Visitor Center -- just follow the signs to the lot on Doane Road. This beach is a favorite walk of mine at low tide, and was the area where Henry Beston wrote The Outermost House. Sadly the blizzard of 1978 washed the cottage where he lived while writing the book -- out to sea.

Yet another example of the awesome forces continually sculpturing the Cape Cod National Seashore.

But here's another gem of a beach for you...

Nauset Light Beach can be reached from Brackett Road also off Route 6, and then Cable Road and Ocean View Drive. The parking lot is small and fills up quickly in the summer.

Close by the beach is Nauset Lighthouse. Originally built in Chatham in the late 19th century, it was moved here shortly after, and moved again in 1996 when erosion of the cliff threatened to collapse the lighthouse.
The beach is popular for the imposing and towering cliffs and clean white-sand, and walks that create memorable Cape Cod vacations.

Great Island Hike in Wellfleet...

The Great Island hike in Wellfleet is a 6-mile hike, so allow yourself at least half-a-day to explore this wonderful area.

Located on the Cape Cod Bay side of the Cape in Wellfleet, drive to the trailhead off Chequesset Neck Road, and prepare yourself -- and camera -- for an exhilarating hike. The area is pretty open and so take sunscreen and a hat.

What will you see?

Marvelous views of Wellfleet Harbor and Cape Cod Bay await you once on the island (hint: it’s not really an island anymore).

Another hint: this is a real nature hike. There’s no sandwich bar or coke machine waiting for you at the end, so take your own snacks and drinks. Of all the trails in the Cape Cod National Seashore Park, this is perhaps the most remote -- and I like that!

Out on the Island itself there used to be a secluded Tavern used by Whalers and the like. Nothing remains of it today except for a sign to mark the spot where it was.

National Seashore Province Lands Visitors Center…

The visitor center in Province Lands is off Route 6 and on Race Point Road. This is the northern tip of the park, and marks our final stop together on this Cape Cod vacations trip.

The Visitor Center itself has an observation deck where you can view the majestic surroundings of ocean, forest, and the omnipresent towering dunes. The area includes two swimming beaches -- Race Point and Herring Cove -- a bike trail, and a walking trail. There’s also a beautiful lighthouse at Race Point.

The bike trail is a challenging 5.25-mile loop that you can start from the visitor center. I’d describe it as undulating bordering on hilly.

There’s also a fair amount of hairpin turns, and so helmets and a safe speed are a must. Believe me the downhill stretches are so exhilarating, but you can easily forget and misjudge bike traffic coming the other way. I’ve seen many a tangled mess -- Ouch!

And that’s the end of this brief trip.

Wow! You did a lot in a few minutes – from your chair. But now it’s time to do the real thing. Are you ready?

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By: Cliff Calderwood

Cliff Calderwood is the owner and contributing writer of http://www.new-england-vacations-guide.com/. He lived on Cape Cod for two years.

Fish Creek House - Making Montana Memories and a Dream Come True

WHITEHALL — Cindy Buscarow fulfilled a childhood dream when she moved to Montana last May. Another dream was reached two weeks ago when she and her husband, Dan, opened Fish Creek House, a bed and breakfast just outside of Whitehall.

"When I was young I always told my parents I wanted to live in Montana," said Cindy, known as Cid. Living in New York and later California, Cid didn't know how that would quite happen.

Dan, a partner in a computer business and gunsmith, and Cid, a bi-athlete, came to Bohart Ranch near Bozeman to compete in the running and shooting competition and fell in love with the area. The search was on for property in Montana. For Dan, he was returning to his roots. He lived in Malta until he was five.

The couple found a beautiful log home located on forty acres with gorgeous views of the mountains and a stone's throw from Fish Creek.
The house was purchased and a large renovation started.

"We'd drive up from California every month to see how the progress was going," said Cid.

During one of their trips, they took a hike down to the creek and when Cid looked up at the log home nestled in the hills, the name Fish Creek House came to her.

With the renovation complete and the licenses involved with a bed and breakfast approved, Fish Creek House is officially open for business.
The couple looks forward to sharing their home with guests, and those with horses as well. A new barn and round pen have been built for the couple's horses and although they are not offering trail rides, guests are welcome to bring their own horses and board them in the new facilities.
"We want accommodate people who arenature loving. We'll make you feel like part of the family while you're here," said Cid.

One of Dan and Cid's specialties is shooting and plan to host shooting clinics for enthusiasts.

Another specialty of Fish Creek House will be the food. They offer a gourmet breakfast for their guests and with their own personal greenhouse, the vegetables will be organically grown on site.

The inn offers two guests suites, each with a private bath, a large living room with a stone fireplace, a library and a sitting room, complete with a microwave and a fridge. Fish Creek House is also a place where the active businessperson can stay in touch. They offer wireless internet in each of the rooms and are considered a "wifi hotspot." The Buscarow's have quickly introduced themselves to the local Chamber of Commerce. They have offered their services to build a website for the Chamber and are in the process of doing so. They are also community minded business people and have used custom made Montana pieces in their guest rooms.

"The beds were made by the Amish," said Dan. The couple also uses local artwork to adorn the rooms.

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By: Dan and Cid Busarow

Dan and Cid are anxious to help their guests plan their ultimate vacation and can be found on the web at http://www.fishcreekhouse.com/. They can be e-mailed at info@fishcreekhouse.com

Cid has varied experiences from careers in custom software programming, marketing, farming and horticulture.

Cid has also worked in business development and with her twin sister formerly owned a catering company, Sibling Revelry. An avid hunter and fisherman,husband Dan is a certified NRA instructor developing shooting programs for 4-H clubs and is a gunsmith.

Conspiracies: The Pyramid and the Sphinx

Egypt has long been the source of countless conspiracies, ranging from ancient lost civilizations to extraterrestrial markers. The reason for this focus is likely because Egypt is the most romanticized ancient civilization, and also because it is home to the mystical Great Pyramid of Giza, the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World. This article will describe some of the conspiracies surrounding the Sphinx and the Pyramid.

The Riddle of the Sphinx

Most of the conspiracy theories revolving around the Sphinx usually involve its age. The Sphinx is generally accepted to have been built along with the Pyramids of Giza around 2500 BC. It is even accepted that the face of the Sphinx bears the likeness of Khafre (Chephren), the Pharaoh during that time.

However, there was no written record from that era regarding the Sphinx or its construction. In addition, the human head of the Sphinx is small in relation to the rest of the body, indicating that the head bearing Pharaoh Khafre's likeness could have been carved out of a larger lion's head. These points led some researchers to believe that the Sphinx could have been built much earlier by a more ancient civilization, thus starting a whole host of conspiracy theories.

Geologist Dr. Robert Schoch and author John Anthony West made a case that the erosion marks on the Sphinx appears not to be made by wind or sand, but by water, such as falling rain. They used evidence of other structures in the Giza area to prove their point. If this were true, the construction of the Sphinx could then be dated back to at least 5000 BC, when the area still received substantial rainfall, in contrast to desert conditions later on.

In his official website, Director of the Giza Monuments Dr. Zahi Hawass provides various points suggesting that the evidence used in proving Dr. Schoch's theory is flawed.

Adding to the conspiracies surrounding the age of the Sphinx, writers Graham Hancock and Robert Buvaul provide evidence in their book Message of the Sphinx that the creation of the Sphinx and Pyramids can be pushed back as far as 10,500 BC using astronomical data.

Secret of the Pyramids

The Pyramids of Giza have been the objects of many conspiracies over the years. Many people believe that the Pyramids are a link to an ancient lost civilization, and may still contain evidence to prove it. Many conspiracy theories regarding secret chambers and passageways within the pyramids exist to this day.

These conspiracy theories became even more widespread in 1993, when Dr. Zahi Hawass announced that the Great Pyramid of Khufu was to be closed to the public for a year. The reason given for the closure was to facilitate cleaning, conservation and restoration of the interior chambers in the Great Pyramid.

However, conspiracy theorists believe that the Egyptian authorities had uncovered evidence of a lost civilization in the Pyramid, and were secretly excavating it to reveal more information.

During the conservation process in 1993, robots were used to explore the small ventilation shafts leading from the "King's Chamber" and the lower "Queen's Chamber" in the Great Pyramid. An intriguing discovery was made: partway through the shafts of the "Queen's Chamber" were "doors" with handles.

In order to prove the transparency of their work and debunk any conspiracies, Dr. Zahi Hawass decided to partner with National Geographic to explore beyond the "doors", and provide a live telecast of the exploration to the rest of the world.

After much publicity, the expedition commenced, with footage telecast live around the world. During the last minute of the show, a camera was sent in a hole made in the "door" of the shaft, revealing another "door" behind it. And that was when the show finished. Conspiracy theories started sprouting, asking the following questions: "What's behind the 2nd door? Why did the show end so abruptly? What are they hiding from us?"
If you want to know more conspiracy theories surrounding Egypt, you can visit: http://www.nekhebet.com/m_conspiracies.html

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By: Steven N. NG

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.
webmaster@nekhebet.com

Universal Meaning of Celtic Knotwork

In the spring of 2003, I spent three weeks in the city of Chennai, formerly known as Madras, located in Southern India. Each morning, walking before the heat of the day, I was amazed to see intricate knot work patterns drawn out free hand with flour in front of the driveways and gates of homes. These artistic scrolls, I was told by an Indian friend, were offerings to local gods, and were part of a tradition that stretched back into the ancient past.

I have seen knot patterns in my travels throughout many parts of the world. In Islamic countries where iconography is prohibited, the mosques are heavily decorated with knot-like patterns. Stone-carved knot work motifs can be found on ruins from the Americas to the Hindu iconography of Bali, Indonesia. In Tibet, the “eternal knot” is a common symbol representing the endless cycles of existence.

The knot work most familiar in the West is from Celtic iconography. Though the Celts, before the Roman Empire, were spread throughout much of Western Europe, we’re most familiar with their designs remaining today in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. On the moors, surrounded by winding rock walls and ancient neolithic bridges, this knot work carved in stone transcends time. We know from the writings of the Romans that the Celts believed strongly in the sacredness of place. Similar to the beliefs of many in South India today, the land anchored a particular god or goddess that was meant to be honored, though we do not know whether the knot work designs were made as offerings.

The broad spectrum of knot work designs found in many cultures suggests that the motif is both universal and rooted in ancient mystery. From the most general perspective, knot work iconography can be viewed as a metaphor for our own unique tapestry of experience. On a macrocosmic level, the knots express metaphorically that life on earth is deeply interconnected, as illustrated in the Spider Women’s web or the Great Hoop of Life in Native American stories. As one Native woman told me, if you move a pebble on top of a mountain, you can change the course of a mighty river. This is also expressed slightly differently in the Biblical aphorism, “We reap what we sow,” which is similar to the Eastern understanding of karma. Even physics today speaks of a “unified field.”

Yet it is also true that individual elements of knots hold specific meaning from the perspective of sacred geometry. Look around you at different geometric forms. Why is the earth, our eyes, the trunks of trees circular instead of square? How does the circle function in the world verses the triangle and what does that mean in terms of knot work that uses circular patterns? Here are a few hints to help you with these blueprints.

We speak of a circle of friends and live in circular cycles, such as the day and the season. Native cultures throughout the world hold ceremonies in protective circles. A knot work pattern with circles or variations of circles certainly has some important keys to relationships and community.

A square knot motif concerns structure and stability, which is why buildings use the shape of a square foundation. Numerology has always played a part in ancient cultures and there are many books on the subject. The number five, for example, represents the four directions and the center point, or the five senses.

We also often see knot work shaped like an oval, which is the shape of an egg. The oval has something to do with generative creativity and birth. Planets circle the sun in an oval. And if you squeeze an oval together you get the lemniscates, the symbol for infinity which is very prevalent in knot work motifs.

Many knot work motifs also deal with vectors that travel in a certain direction. If you look at the shape of an arrow, it’s easy to understand why a triangle might connote movement.

Another common motif is the knot work depicting a trinity. In the Celtic tradition, many deities had three forms. The Mother Goddess was understood to the maiden, mother and crone. The universe was viewed as heaven, earth and otherworld. We are born, we live and we die. Certainly the trinity knot also illustrates the One being dividing off into the masculine and feminine, or the mother and son-- a mystical truth contemplated in many sacred traditions.

The cross is also a symbol rich in meaning. From a simple point of view, two lines crossing symbolizing a connection or meeting which can be a point of creativity. Some mystics speak of the horizontal axis representing the earthly plain, while the vertical axis points toward the heavens.

While the above guide for understanding knot work is not necessarily based on any scholarly or anthropological text on the meaning of knots, it does provide a starting point that is based on a universal perspective. Most knot work designs are going to have some variation of these shapes. Spending time contemplating the motif may yield some insight.

Lastly, there’s an essential reason why the knot work is so prevalent, and that is beauty. I will never forget Jaisalmer, an ancient town in the desert of Rajasthan. This ancient city, where caravans used to stop and trade, is made from sandstone. Many of the buildings are carved with intricate knot work patterns. Strangers walked up to me and said, “How do you like our beautiful city?” I could see clearly how art is life-giving and the need for beauty is something fundamental. In the middle of the desert, the beautiful knot work in golden stone brings joy to the heart.

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By: Marc Choyt

Marc Choyt graduated from Brown University in 1984 with a degree in English. In 1995, he received an MA degree in Humanities from St. John's College. In 1996, he and his wife, Helen Chantler, founded Reflective Images, a designer jewelry company specializing in contemporary Celtic jewelry.
http://www.celticjewelry.com

Please send email requests to marek@celticjewelry.com.

How To Tell If It's A Swell Motel

Lately, I’ve been doing a lot of traveling in connection with my writing. The past three weekends alone I’ve driven to Sylva, North Carolina, Louisville, Kentucky, and Destin, Florida. Overall, I’m holding up reasonably well, except for the fact that my rear end is starting to closely resemble the upholstery pattern of my car seats. I’ve also learned that you don’t want to drink a twenty-four ounce Diet Mountain Dew in a plastic bottle just before you drive up to Atlanta. Doing that can give the term, “the Foggy Mountain Two Step,” a whole new meaning.

When you travel a lot it gives you the opportunity to stay in motels. Lots of motels. And I’m learning very quickly which ones are the good ones and which ones are the ones you need to avoid like a polecat. Believe me, even in this day in time there are as many fleabag motels as there are fire ants, and if you’re not careful you can easily find yourself in one. Like the one I found myself in recently where the showerhead was level with my chest. I honestly had to bend over so far to wash my hair that I felt like a human parentheses. Or the one that I stayed in a couple of months back that had a TV with maybe four viewable channels, and the remote had no batteries in it. Oddly enough, right there on the nightstand was a little sign telling you that they had batteries for sale in the lobby for only three dollars apiece. Isn’t that classy?

Because of experiences like that, I’m going to do a little public service column for y’all this week, and point out just what to do look for so that everyone can avoid all the fleabag and clip joint motels that are out there in travel land. Just consider the following:

1. If it costs less than thirty dollars a night for a room, avoid it like a beet casserole. Think about it - going to a movie nowadays costs maybe fifteen or twenty dollars for two people. Snacks like popcorn and cokes can easily double that cost. Altogether, a couple could very easily spend thirty dollars or so for a movie. Common sense tells me that any place that will let you stay overnight for less than it costs for two people to attend a movie has got to have something wrong with it. Maybe something major wrong with it, like a door that won’t lock, or towels that smell like a bass. Just a hunch, mind you, but less than thirty, it‘s gotta be dirty. Find another one.

2. If a motel deliberately misspells its name, avoid it like a cash strapped relative. Y’all know the types I’m talkin’ about - motels that have names like, “Thriftee Inn, “Sleepee Inn” or something else disgustingly similar. The folks running those joints want you to think they’re one thing, but, when you lay down and find that Mr. Cockroach and his family are in bed with you, it‘s too late. Hard to sleep when you’re perched up on top of a nightstand for the rest of the evening.

3. A “pay per the hour” option is offered. No need to say a whole lot more about this, but if you still go ahead and book one of these joints you’ll find that the bed in the room is in real bad shape, but the furniture is in near perfect condition. Go figure.

4. If the place offers adult movies on their TVs, and you decide to watch one and it seems like the action is occurring in a room that looks a whole lot like yours, consider writing off the rest of the evening, packing up, and quickly riding on down the road. If you don’t, not only might you become an accidental adult film star, but you might also discover that some of these “reality based” adult films feature haints that not only shouldn’t be filmed, but probably shouldn’t even be allowed outdoors in the daylight. Just my opinion, though.

And there you have it. Practical guidelines for keeping a fleabag joint out of your moteling future. I’d write more, but I’m doing this on a laptop computer out on the road, and this motel I’m staying in is charging me a dollar a minute for electricity, and don‘t even ask me about the eight dollar rolls of toilet paper.....

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By: Ed Williams

Ed’s latest book, “Rough As A Cob,“ can be ordered by calling River City Publishing toll-free at: 877-408-7078. He’s also a popular after dinner speaker, and his column runs in a number of Southeastern publications. You can contact him via email at: ed3@ed-williams.com, or through his web site address at: www.ed-williams.com.

Six Good Reasons To Take A Family Vacation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I know this all sounds so good, it makes you want to book that trip you’ve been putting off doesn’t it? Well, I will add in a dose of reality here and include a few negatives. There are some natural stresses to travelling.

Planes get delayed, kids get cranky, families can have too much of a good thing and get on each other’s nerves. The list can go on, but don’t let that discourage you, the advantages are too numerous to ignore.

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

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Jolana Klobouk

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

Choosing the Right Travel Nursing Placement Agency

Travel nursing is becoming one of our nation’s fastest growing professions, and it’s no surprise. If you love seeing new places and enjoy exciting new experiences that evoke the feeling of taking an extended vacation, then the career of a traveling nurse might be just what the doctor ordered! Travel nursing enables many people to stay on vacation for two to six months in free luxury accommodations while earning high hourly wages at the same time.

Yet despite all these advantages, many nurses describe to me that they’ve shied away from the traveling profession. Why? Because bad experiences with placement agencies have left them with nothing but a negative impression. They’ve been underpaid or lacked benefits, and I can’t tell you how many nurses have complained to me about inadequate housing or recruiters who were unkind, uncaring, and just plain unavailable. The sad result is that nurses end up jumping from one agency to the next, always in search of the perfect package that’s never there.

In this light, choosing the right staffing agency requires a nurse to consider everything that is offered. Some nurses emphasize pay as their top priority. Others require an excellent benefits package. Many travel RNs are location-specific and want to experience the lifestyle in the country’s hot spots. Career flexibility is often a pivotal factor, along with customer service. The bottom line is, your agency choice depends largely upon one of the four following criteria.

SALARY

No question about it, there are some agencies that offer more money than others. So the first thing to remember is that agencies may base salaries upon things like location availability, need-to-fill assignments, and cost of living.

Some agencies must offer noticeably higher rates if they expect to fill certain assignments where nurse-to-patient ratios are very low, or where a facility has extreme patient needs. If you’re a nurse who is attracted by very high dollars, be alert for a potentially desperate situation you might be entering, and the workload it could bring. You may make more money, but you’ll earn every dollar and more.

Location also factors into salary. The California bay area and many larger east coast cities definitely offer more lucrative pay rates. It’s also much more expensive to live in those places, so recognize the relationship that exists between salary dollars and cost of living. I’ve seen nurses return from Hawaii saying they had a great vacation and made a lot of friends—but their purses were lighter, not heavier from the experience. You might get less money in an exotic location and come back with more money from a not-so-exotic location. My point is, your criteria will determine your priorities.

BENEFITS

What some companies may lack in salary, they make up for with benefits. Many agencies offer benefits programs that revolve around monetary bonuses or discounted luxury housing; and I have even observed a trend with several newer companies that offer entirely free housing to all their nurses. Take note, however, that those agencies may not ante up the really high salaries. It’s a trade-off, so they compensate you with benefits to save you daily, monthly, and annual expenses. Every nurse should be aware of what benefits they need the most, and then ask their recruiters to assist in developing a package that is tailored to their individual needs.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

To many traveling nurses, customer service and aid are the most important attributes a placement agency possesses. If you called ten agencies and only talked with one live recruiter, it’s probably best to narrow it down to the agency where individual placement specialists were easily available. After all, if you’re ready to proceed with a new assignment you’ll want an agency that can make it happen fast and has recruiters available who already understand your criteria. In fact, your criteria may change from one assignment to another, so customer service is paramount. Determine what you want and then find out which agencies can make it happen.

FEATURED LOCATIONS AND HOT SPOTS

While for some nurses, salary, benefits, and career flexibility might be the number-one interest, many others just want the obvious—to travel and see the world. If you’re an adventurer who cares more about the travel experience than the money, then you’ll need an agency that can offer you the locations you want.

Not every agency can send you just anywhere. Figure out where you want to go, and then call around to discover who can send you there.

A travel nursing career is absolutely one of the best, most rewarding choices any nurse can make, but it’s important to select a company who will partner with you every step of the way. Before you jump in, do your homework and research all the best placement agencies. Finding the agency that fits your unique wants and needs will drastically increase your chances of success and happiness in your career.

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By: Janet Fikany

Janet Fikany is a "Placement Diva" for HealthCare Staffing Network. For travel nursing advice, please visit HSN online at http://www.hcstaffingnetwork.com, or call Janet toll free at 1-877-385-3097.
nat@hcstaffingnetwork.com

Return to Ouvea, New Caledonia

"Ouvea is everything you'd expect in a South Pacific island. Twenty kilometers of unbroken white sands border the lagoon on the west side of the island and extend far out from shore to give the water a turquoise hue. The wide western lagoon, protected by a string of coral islands and a barrier reef, is the only of its kind in the Loyalties. On the ocean side are rocky cliffs, pounded by surf, but fine beaches may be found even here. At one point on this narrow atoll only 450 meters separates the two coasts. Traditional circular houses with pointed thatched roofs are still common in the villages."

Those words appeared in the 1985 edition of my South Pacific Handbook after a visit in 1983. Just over 20 years later I returned to Ouvea to discover that little had changed in this French colony east of Australia.

Most Ouveans still live in traditional thatched case (houses) and the beach is as dazzling as ever. On my first evening there, as I watched the red fireball set slowly across the lagoon, I felt a strong affinity with my previous visit.

Yet something terrible had happened in my absence. On May 5, 1988, 300 French elite troops stormed a cave near Gossanah in northern Ouvea to rescue 16 gendarmes captured two weeks earlier by Melanesian freedom fighters.

Nineteen Kanaks (the collective name used by the indigenous peoples of New Caledonia) died in the assault, including several who suffered extrajudicial execution at the hands of the French police after being wounded and taken prisoner.

None of the hostages had been harmed. Thus began one of the final chapters of what is now known as the evenements (events) of the 1980s. Three years earlier independence leader Eloi Machoro had been murdered in cold blood by police snipers as he stood outside a rural farmhouse near La Foa, on New Caledonia's main island, Grand Terre.

By 1987 France had 14,000 troops stationed in its mineral-rich Melanesian colony, one for every five Kanaks. The independence movement was to be crushed one way or another.

When I tried to visit the cave at Gossanah on my recent trip, I was told that the area was taboo to allow the spirits time to rest.

Instead I was permitted to visit the grave of Djoubelly Wea in Gossanah and allowed to take pictures of his home. My host on Ouvea told me the story. Evidently, the hostages had been taken by young Kanak activists from other parts of the island, and the captive gendarmes were brought to Gossanah only because the cave was considered remote.

Residents of the area weren't involved. Yet when the French police arrived in search of their comrades, they rounded up the people of Gossanah and assembled them on a football field in front of the village church.

There they were tortured for information, and Wea's father was among those who died of shock. Later 33 Ouveans were sent to prison in France, Djoubelly Wea among them.

These events chastened Kanaks and French alike, and the heads of the main political parties, the Kanak leader Jean-Marie Tjibaou and the representative of the French settlers Jacques Lafleur, were called to Paris by Prime Minister Michel Rocard to negotiate and eventually sign a peace treaty known as the Matignon Accords.

A referendum on independence was promised in 1998, and massive economic aid was to be channeled into the Kanak regions. An amnesty was granted to all those arrested during the troubles, and no investigation into the Ouvea massacre or the murders of several dozen other Kanaks by French settlers or troops would be required.

Fast forward to May 1989, as the top Kanak leaders Jean-Marie Tjibaou and Yeiwene Yeiwene arrive on Ouvea for a commemorative ceremony exactly one year after the massacre.

As the leaders are being received at the chefferie (chiefly house) of Wadrilla near the center of the island, Djoubelly Wea steps forward and shoots the pair dead at point blank range. Wea was reflecting a feeling still palpable in New Caledonia that Tjibaou had sold out to the French and derailed the struggle of independence.

Tjibaou's bodyguard killed Wea, the final shot of the evenements. Today the chefferie of Wadrilla is much the same as it was in 1989, a large thatched case surrounded by a palisade of driftwood logs.

Across the coastal highway, a large monument has been erected to the 19 Kanak martyrs of 1988. Designed with two curving white walls to resemble a cave, the monument bears the photo, name, and date of birth of each victim.

Their traditional war clubs have been placed on the back side of the monument and their remains are interred below.

No memorial to Jean-Marie Tjibaou exists on Ouvea but the French have constructed a massive cultural center to his memory in their stronghold Noumea.

In fairness, it must be said that Tjibaou only considered the Matignon Accords a temporary stop on the road to independence. His assassination froze the agreement into a sort of permanent solution which the French have used to justify continuing colonial rule ever since.

The promised 1998 referendum was never held. Instead an updated treaty called the Noumea Accord was signed. This postponed the referendum for another 15 or 20 years and promised many things the French government has yet to deliver.

For example, a key provision creating a special New Caledonian citizenship status intended to control immigration from France was declared unconstitutional by a French court in 1999.

Metros (metropolitan French) continue to flood into the territory (in violation of United nations resolutions on the norms of conduct for colonial powers in non-self-governing areas) and Europeans may soon from a clear majority of the population.

Toward the end of my stay I visited the Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Center in the Tina Peninsula, 12 kilometers northeast of New Caledonia's capital Noumea. Designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, it was built by French contractors between 1994 and 1998 at a cost of over US$50 million. The center opened on May 4, 1998, 10th anniversary of the assassination of Jean-Marie Tjibaou.

No visitor can help but be impressed by the spectacular botanical garden interwoven with references to Kanak legends which encircles the center's three villages.

A contemporary art gallery, temporary and permanent exhibitions of Kanak and other Pacific art, a library, an audiovisual room, indoor and outdoor theaters, and a large ceremonial area are only some of the center's outstanding features.

Yet the Tjibaou Cultural Center presents Kanak culture as a regional folklore rather than a national tradition.

Events such as the Ouvea Massacre and the other murders of the 1980s are barely mentioned. A room in Village Three provides photos and texts on the life of Jean-Marie Tjibaou, but there's no explanation as to why he was assassinated or the background of his assassin.

The 19th century land seizures and the muscle flexing and maneuvering that have prevented independence are carefully avoided. The highlight for me was an amazing three-meter-high bronze statue of Tjibaou himself, clad in a Roman toga, on a hill overlooking the center.

Tjibaou was the last real Kanak leader, and in a land where the spirits of the dead have an important role in the lives of the living, his soul must be suffering.

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By: David Stanley

David Stanley is the author of Moon Handbooks South Pacific http://www.southpacific.org/pacific.html which has a chapter on New Caledonia. His online guide to New Caledonia may be perused at http://www.southpacific.org/text/new_caledonia.html
You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, so long as the byline and resource box are included. Please do not use this article without the byline and resource box. Many thanks!

Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island was the first ecologically-planned destination in The United States. Light pollution ordinances are in effect across the island to protect the habits of the loggerhead turtles which sometimes confuse the lights of dwellings and street lights with that of the ocean. Protections are in place to protect the beautiful live oaks and palmetto trees which cover the island. Salt marshes, beaches and lagoons remain in pristine condition across the island. While modern conveniences such as shopping malls and five star hotels are widely available; care has been taken to blend these structures into the native ecology as much as possible.

The 2.5 million travelers who arrive annually to Hilton Head Island find an infinite variety of activities and reasons for visiting. Whether they are searching for a world class golf vacation, relaxing on the miles of sandy beaches or enjoying the gentle sway of palm trees in unspoiled nature, a stay on Hilton Head Island is sure to pleasethe most discerning of vacationers.

Hilton Head Island is home to the Heritage Classic golf championship and the Celebrity golf tournament. With an average yearly temperature of 70 degrees, visitors to the island are sure to enjoy year round golf on any of the 24 golf courses located on Hilton Head. There are also another 40 golf courses to be found in thesurrounding area, just a short distance from the island.

Tennis enthusiasts can enjoy the many professional courts available on Hilton Head. With over 300 courts to chose from there is no shortage of playing opportunities. Professional tennis instructors are also available to those wishing to improve their games.

With over twelve miles of sandy beaches overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, water lovers will find that Hilton Head Island is a coastal paradise.

Whether you just want to relax in the sun or try your hand at scuba diving, waterskiing or dolphin watching there's is something for everyone on the island. Fishing charters, kayak tours, wind-surfing, island cruises and all manner of water activities are available.

If you really want to see the island consider renting a bicycle from one of the numerous bike rental outfits.With miles of bike paths available, many of which take you through nature preserves, this is truly an enjoyable way to experience the natural splendor of the island. At low tide, the beaches of Hilton Head make an excellent bike riding surface.

Over 250 restaurants of every price range and cuisine dot the island. Fresh seafood abounds. From five star formal restaurants to fast food and everything in between, every taste and budget is catered to here.

There are a variety of accommodations available in several price ranges. From hotels to villas, condos to timeshares, you are sure to find lodging which fits your taste and budget.

If you a considering a vacation which includes gorgeous weather, miles of beaches, world class golf, entertainment and dining then explore the many offerings available on Hilton Head Island. For a complete directory of information about the island including accommodations, golf and dining visit http://www.hiltonheadislander.com.

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By: Jeff Palmer

Jeff Palmer is a web designer and search engine optimization specialist living in South Carolina.
http://www.Hiltonheadislander.com

Price Is Not Everything

Booking a cheap holiday might be a short term gain, but what about the long term?

So I got a cheap holiday, but how did it work out? Was all my needs met? Was the hotel as I would have liked it to be? Is the resort right for me?
I am writing this article to give you an idea of the perils of booking your holiday in the competitive industry of Travel. I hope to raise your awareness to the perils of searching for, and booking your dream holiday. With the competitive nature of the travel industry gaining pace, the loss of sincere and considerate travel agents becomes more likely as the increase in hard core sales consultants takes hold.

As a previous employee for one of the largest travel agencies in the UK, I can inform you first hand of the pressures now placed on the travel agent that you are trusting to find a holiday for you and your family.

As the travel industry continues to grow and develop at breakneck pace, you the consumer find a vast array of companies on the internet, on television and in your high street all offering the same products.(The package holiday, flights and hotels) The hotels are all the same, and the flights are all the same. So what can make the difference in you choosing from say Company A or Company B? Well like so many people it all comes down to the overall price of the holiday, flight or hotel. Very little consideration is taken at the time of buying to the after sales commitment offered.

Every year, consumers spend an average of £1500 per household on a holiday abroad, yet many do not stop to consider the cost of service, customer care, and holiday suitability - in other words, did the holiday that I was sold fit the needs that I had?

Surprisingly, if you think back to what you originally asked for, you probably didn’t get it. Think back to the phone call or visit to the travel agent. Did they really listen to you, did they take the time to look for all the options available. Could you get through to them when you had a question to ask them after the booking was made? Will they remember you next year? Do they remember you when you call back? Probably not.

This is the scenario that is going on behind the scenes.

1. The travel agent is only allowed to give you 2 quotes regardless of the request.

2. The travel agent will have a certain amount of time allowed to spend with you. If that time is surpassed the travel agent will lose commission at the end of the month.

3. The agent cannot call you back because it costs the company money. Although if you are spending a lot of money you might be allowed.

4. The agent will pressure you into buying a holiday by repeatedly asking to book the holiday for them or that there is only one room left regardless of whether there is 1 or 9 rooms available.

5. You call back to ask a simple question, and they can’t remember you, or you have to wait ages on an premium line waiting for the agent to be found . You wait for ages only to be put through to customer services and have to go over the same information again. The agent is there but because of the large call centre think they can hide in the system.

6. The agent has to answer a set amount of calls per hour, and has to reach a monthly target. If you only want a flight or a short city break, you find you are mysteriously cut off. (You are not worth enough to the agent) This tends to happen nearer the last days of the month because the agent is nearing their target)

I am not saying that everyone in the business is like this, because there are some highly professional travel agents about, and not all are in it for the fast buck or commission. I have worked with many of these agents and they really do care. However, I have also witnessed many of them leave the industry because of the change in company philosophy. Less service - more money.

I could go on with more potential problems that might occur, but do not want to get away from my main point. Take care when choosing a travel company to spend hundreds or thousands of pounds with. Make sure that you are getting the best all round service. Price is not everything!

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By: Dean Owen

Dean Owen dean@otravel-holidays.com

http://www.otravel-holidays.com/

Dominican Republic Extremely High Prices

Don’t let your travel agent give you the false information that the Dominican Republic is cheap. It is NOT TRUE! The prices are triple US prices for the basic necessities. Add insult to injury 85% of their people are poor!

The problem began when the last president drove the dollar to 56 to 1. Prices skyrocketed.

The elections rolled around and the voters sent President Mejia packing his bags. The new American raised president, Leonel Fernandez took on huge loans with the International Monetary Fund and he raised taxes American style to unbearable levels for their impoverished people.

This immediately plummeted the dollar back down to 28 to 1. After about 6 months the merchants lowered the prices on some items by approximately 10% and raised the prices on most items to a comparable price as if the dollar were at around 60 to 1. Everyone refuses to lower prices even though the peso revalued 50%! Prices continue to climb on everything. From a Coca Cola to a new car.

What that means to tourism is certain failure. Their Zona Franca that depends on a lower labor forces is crumbling with the devaluation of the dollar verses their worthless over valued peso.

The actual exchange rate is about 60 to 1, but the exchange rate is being falsely held down with Presidential hype, huge taxes and borrowed dollars. So in other words when a tourist exchanges dollars at 28 to 1 he is loosing 50% right from the get go. There are many poor people who have money sent from relatives who work for dollars in the US. When theses poor people receive their dollars from abroad they are forced to trade them at a 50% loss. When they go to the grocery store to buy foods the prices are based at 60 to 1.

Gasoline costs 103 pesos per gallon. Divide that by 28 and that gives you a price of $3.64 per gallon. Food and pharmaceuticals are so expensive that only the rich eat and have medicine available. The President lowered the dollar exchange rate but raised the prices. People are striking occasionally. Most people in the country are poor. They have a wealthy class. I don’t see how any rich person would want to live there with the mud roads and huge holes in the streets. And every where you look you see trash and poverty.

Simply put their poor just don’t eat.

The only solution is to let the peso free fall to its actual price of 60 to 1. But that looks like it is not going to happen because of the 50 million dollars a month their American raised President borrows every month from the IMF and the overbearing taxes the government forces their poor to pay as opposed to eating. There are plenty of IMF dollars in the street. Who knows where they are going other than in political pockets.

Long live poverty in the Dominican Republic.

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By: Bob Kelly

Bob Kelly
I am a retired insurance agent. I am divorced because my wife caught me playing around. One day I came home and found myself locked out of my own house with all my clothes sitting in boxes on the front steps. Bob Kelly
mrbkkelly@yahoo.com

Tropical New England

For New Englanders a tropical island seems about as remote as the Pyramids. A summer getaway to the beach usually means a trip to the Cape or to Maine where while the rocky shores may look beautiful, the water is somewhat less than welcoming. Few could imagine that just off the shores of Rhode Island near Narragansett Bay lies Block Island the closest thing to a Caribbean escape that one could dream of finding in the North East.

More than ten thousand years ago the glaciers left behind a piece of land that today stands as a refuge from busy city life, or the harsh New England weather. As you arrive via a ferry from Point Judith, New London, or Montauk you are immediately immersed in a world quite separate from the one you left on the mainland. The beats and rhythms from Ballard’s Inn and club greet all arrivals, and the site of fellow travelers sipping drinks as they lie in the sand makes it difficult for anyone to continue on to their original destination. A boat half way up the beach which has been converted to a bar sits just next to the stage where live beach music forces one to question just how far that ferry took you.

The center of town is right off the ferry landing and provides numerous restaurants, shops, boutiques, clubs, pubs, and more. Many of the hotels and inns are within walking distance, but taxis await to take you any farther, and moped rentals offer a fun alternative. You won’t find a Marriott, Hilton, or any other corporate style accommodations on the island. What you will find is everything from small cozy inns to large manor like hotels, all providing some sort of island getaway mystique. Most places serve wine and cheese around 5:00, which acts as a great way to meet your fellow travelers, or to just enjoy a nice drink in a rocking chair overlooking the ocean.

If you came to relax by the water you certainly won’t have a hard time finding an open spot. With 17 miles of beaches there’s more than enough room for everyone. Thanks to the island’s natural springs there are also 365 freshwater ponds, and the 32 miles of trails will let you visit almost all of them. If you would prefer a faster paced tour a quick bike or moped ride will take you past beautiful rolling hills and beaches to both of the islands historic lighthouses. For those with more of a hunger for adventure you can get a great glimpse of it all in just one sitting while parasailing high above the waters.

After a nice day in the sun a nice night out is easy to find. There are many delicious restaurants, and just as many fun clubs and pubs. From the rocking live bands at McGovern's Yellow Kittens Tavern, to martini night at the Spring House there’s something for every night life seeker. Don’t worry too much about staying out late, as the biggest decision of the next morning is often which beach to enjoy.

Perhaps so few people know about Block Island because it’s hard to believe that such a place exists in the north. Perhaps it’s because those who visit are reluctant to share their tales, worrisome that too many visitors may change the atmosphere of their private paradise. Whatever it is, there’s something special, and something not to be missed about this unique island where New England meets the Caribbean.

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By: Nate Soule

Nate Soule is a travel enthusiast and helps maintain the travel website AcrossDistance.com (http://www.acrossdistance.com).

True Blue Georgia Towns...

My boss was talking to me the other day, and in the course of our conversation he mentioned that he had just talked to an old friend who lived in Cackle Corner, Georgia. Naturally, I figured I was getting my leg pulled all the way to Texas and back, so I told him so. He responded by saying that he was telling me the truth, and that I should go and do some research so that I’d see he was right. Well, I took his advice and did a web search for Georgia cities and towns, and happened to find a site where they had all of them listed. Sure enough, I found a listing for a little community here in Georgia called Cackle Corner. I dutifully reported back to my boss that I’d done the research and found that he was right. He nodded, accepted my remarks graciously, and then added that I‘d better be thankful that I hadn‘t been raised up in Destitute Acres, Georgia.

Destitute Acres, Georgia. A quick look back at the web site showed me that this, too, is a real Georgia community. From that, I figured that it might be interesting to go through the entire list and see what other unusual community names might be out there. It took me maybe about an hour to do it, and y’all won’t believe the names of some of our less publicized Georgia communities. So now, as a public service, I’m going to list some of them for you, and even add in a few thought provoking opinions by each...
Gass - Probably the place where chili dogs originated in Georgia, or maybe baked beans.

Fife - The little known birthplace of the most famous deputy sheriff in America.

Sprite - A resort community for rich Coca Cola company executives.
Trickum Hills - I’m not gonna offer any opinions as to how this name came to be, but my best advice for anyone reading this would be to not buy any used cars there.

Tail’s Creek - This is actually one of two adjoining communities, Tail’s Creek is the southern most one, and the northern most one is named Head’s Creek.

Flea Hill - Not the place where you want to board the family pet when you’re headed out on a vacation.

Po Biddy Crossroads - The last place in Georgia where a widower wants to look for a new bride.

Crane Eater - Needless to say, I wouldn’t patronize any of the restaurants there.

Jay Bird Springs - Few people know this, but this was probably the first nudist colony in the state of Georgia, its name being shortened from the original, “Naked As A Jay Bird” Springs.

Vega - A community for ex-Chevrolet executives.

Frogtown - What happens when you locate a community too close to a large pond.

Shoulderbone - An attempt at the first planned community in Georgia. Had this been successful, future communities named Kneecap, Appendix, and Elbow were planned.

Nameless - The community where scientists first came up with the concept of generic branded products.

There are also some other names that y’all might get a kick out of, but, in order to keep my editors happy, I won’t offer any opinions or commentaries regarding them. They’re as follows: Dick’s Hill, Hix, Tee Pee, Abide Awhile, Cabbage Town, Hothouse, Peter Point Oaks, Skullhead, Dewy Rose, and Water Pipe.

If y‘all would like to take a look for yourselves at the names of these and other towns in our state, you may do so by pointing your browser at the following web address (URL):
http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/ga/gatowns1.htm

...and you can see for yourselves all the varied and colorful community names that we enjoy. In fact, I could write ten more columns about this, but I’m pressed for time right now. Retirement isn’t all that many years down the road for me, and I’m gonna do some research on what the property values are like over in Willacoochee, Georgia. For some reason, this seems like the kind of place I could really enjoy my remaining days in....

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By: Ed Williams

Ed’s latest book, “Rough As A Cob,“ can be ordered by calling River City Publishing toll-free at: 877-408-7078. He’s also a popular after dinner speaker, and his column runs in a number of Southeastern publications. You can contact him via email at: ed3@ed-williams.com, or through his web site address at: www.ed-williams.com.

Guide to the Best Vancouver Vacation Attractions

Vancouver is a great place for vacations, romantic getaways, or as a base for exploring southwestern B.C. Let me tell you some more about our hometown!

One of the most unique aspects about Vancouver is its location. The wilderness is only a ½ hour drive away from downtown!

Getting close to nature is very easy here. The hiking, sailing, skiing and golfing opportunities are just awesome and available most of the year. You can travel to Whistler quite easily (1.5 hr drive from the city), and the ferry to Victoria on Vancouver Island is a short 30 km trip to the south.

When is the best time to plan your Vancouver vacation? Anytime between April to the end of September will give you a decent chance for some nice weather. We get the most rain and low clouds between November and February.

Here's a brief look at some of the top Vancouver attractions:
Stanley Park: One of the jewels of Vancouver. An incredible 405 hectare park right beside the city center! Trails through the forest, excellent views of the city and north shore mountains, historic totem poles, and the Vancouver Aquarium are just a few reasons why this should be one of the first stops on your Vancouver vacation.

Robson Street: The main shopping artery in the city. Shops, restaurants, and hotels line each side of the street, which gets pretty busy from June to October. If you like Starbucks and love to people watch, there are 2 of them across from each other on the corner of Robson and Thurlow streets!
Canada Place: Originally built for Expo 86, Canada Place, which includes the convention center and Pan Pacific Hotel, is a signature building on the Vancouver waterfront, vaguely familiar to the Opera House in Sydney. A walk around the perimeter shows off the North Shore Mountains, harbor and any cruise ships that are docked during the summer season. If you’re in the mood for a film of some type, the IMAX Theater at the north end has interesting films on a giant five story high screen with surround sound!

Granville Island: Just a great place to spend an afternoon or early evening wandering through the shops, checking out the Public Market, sipping an espresso and watching the buskers, or stopping by the Granville Island Brewery and sampling the latest pale ale! You can also catch the “sea taxi”, a small little craft that shuttles you around False Creek to different places like Science World and across the water to the downtown side.

Capilano Suspension Bridge: It’s a long way down! (Over 200 ft). A rope-and-plank swinging bridge over the rushing waters of the Capilano River – scary, but totally safe! Numbers of visitors wise, this is the biggest draw in the city, and the admission price has gotten a little steeper too. Try mornings or early evening for the fewest crowds.

Copyright © 2004 Excellent Romantic Vacations

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By: Greg Mattson

Greg Mattson is the editor of Excellent Romantic Vacations – A guide to great romantic vacations & getaways in Canada, the USA and around the world.

Find out more about Vancouver and Vancouver hotels in our Pacific Northwest Vacation section.
excellent-romantic-vacations.com
info@excellent-romantic-vacations.com

Finding The Best Oahu Activities Discounts

Are you a "coupon-cutter"? Well, if you're looking to find some Oahu activities discounts on your Hawaii vacation, you'll do well in Waikiki!
There are lots of discounts and coupons on Oahu attractions to be found, Waikiki coupons are good for discounts on Polynesian shows, sunset cruises, Hawaiian luaus, dolphin shows, zoo and aquarium, and submarine rides, just to name a few.

Usually what we do is just take an hour or two at the start of our Waikiki holiday and stroll down some of the main Waikiki avenues (Kuhio Ave, Kalakaua Ave and Lewers St. are 3 of our favorites). In vending boxes and dispensers, you'll find all kinds of Oahu attractions booklets and guides.
Then, it's help yourself time! It's easy to load up on meal discounts, 2-for-1 Mai Tai offers, guided tour deals, and so on.

Another good place to find Oahu attraction discount coupons and offers is in the Honolulu newpapers, like the Star Bulletin (especially on weekends).

Here's a look at some of the popular publications that are full of discounts and coupons on Oahu attractions, shows, tours and restaurants:

This Week Oahu - free guide to Oahu activities. Maps, news, and coupons for discounts on shopping, dining, attractions and more. They are everywhere! Hotel lobbies, street display stands, tourist attractions, ABC stores, and more. This is my personal favorite, and the maps and other tour info make this booklet a must-have.

The Best of Oahu - another free guide, this one is smaller (palm sized). Available in most of the same places This Week Oahu is found. 15+ pages of coupons at the back for discounts on Hawaiian souvenirs, restaurants and Oahu attractions.

101 Things To Do on Oahu - a bit harder to find, check the larger brochure and pamphlet stands thoroughly. Magazine-sized guide to an extensive list of things to do on Oahu, with 2-for-1 and 50% off coupons on sights and shows.

Copyright © 2005 Excellent Romantic Vacations

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By: Greg Mattson

Greg Mattson is the editor of Excellent Romantic Vacations – A guide to great romantic vacations & getaways in Canada, the USA and around the world. You can find out more about Hawaii in our Hawaii Vacation section.
excellent-romantic-vacations.com
info@excellent-romantic-vacations.com

Timesharing Without Owning A Timeshare

If you’re dreaming of a unique vacation experience, but don’t have a budget to cover outrageous hotel expenses, or to even purchase a timeshare yourself, there are ways to take advantage of the great deals offered by timeshare owners without actually becoming one yourself.

With timeshare locations found all over the globe from the snow-capped Rocky Mountains to the tropical beaches of the Bahamas, the only thing limiting a destination is a person’s own imagination. But, how does one afford these great vacation destinations without taking out a second mortgage? It’s simple, shop around for timeshare opportunities online where you can look at what various resorts that handle timeshare condos have to offer and even get hooked up directly with a timeshare owner. A timeshare owner just might have a slot open in a location you want, but not have the time to take advantage of it him or herself.

Timeshare locations around the world basically work by having multiple owners for a single condo or unit within a resort destination. Each owner is given a set number of days or weeks to use that location for their own personal vacations. These owners can sometimes “trade” their time with an owner in another location, effectively increasing their ability to vacation around the world, but sometimes owners simply are looking for a return on their investment.

When a timeshare owner is either unable to take advantage of their time slot, or simply prefers to “rent” out or “auction” off their time at their resort, non-timeshare owners can get involved in the action for a fraction of ownership costs. This provides an advantage to the timeshare owner in that his or her slot can now earn them money on their timeshare investment as a rental or auction can cover their money invested, or even exceed it in some cases. For those looking to enjoy the amenities of a timeshare without actually becoming an owner, these situations are boons. Owners will often set a flat-rate fee for a rental or put up their time slot and destination as an auction on an Internet site or other location.

When looking to deal with a timeshare company directly, you can sometimes get fantastic incentive deals by agreeing to visit a resort location and listen to the company’s sales pitch. Some destinations offer timeshare condos for as low as $50 a night and sometimes even free for those who will come and listen with an open mind.

The best places to start looking for timeshare opportunities without actually buying into one are on the Internet, auction sites and through newspapers and travel magazines. Anyone in the market for a vacation will quickly find these offers are available in almost every major vacation destination city around the globe. Orlando, Florida, for example, has literally dozens and dozens of timeshare resorts. Many even offer other discounts for those who come and listen, rent or buy. These discounts can include dining coupons and theme park and other attraction tickets.

If vacationing is on your mind, but spending a lot of money isn’t, timesharing without owning a timeshare might be a great way to see a new part of the world without breaking your bank. To learn more about timeshare rentals and the unique vacation opportunities they provide, just log on to the Internet and visit locations such as http://www.atimesharesz.com/timesharecondorentals to do a thorough search and decide what is the best location for you and your family to enjoy.

© Copyright 2005 by Dana Sanders. All rights reserved.

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By: Dana Sanders

Looking for information about timeshares?

Go to http://www.atimesharesz.com.

A Timeshares Z is a timeshares and vacation, resort and condo rentals and resales directory.
webmaster@atimesharesz.com

Florida Vacation Villas

Ah! Dreaming of staying in Florida vacation villas, while the snow is flying and the wind is kicking up outside your window?

Who wouldn’t like to make a quick escape to balmy, sunny Florida? No waking up to dark days with freezing temperatures. No bundling up to scrape the car and keep it running to thaw it out. Sound enticing? Winter vacations spent in sunny Florida vacation villas will be sure to warm your spirits as well as your body. Along with the comfort offered in sunny Florida vacation villas, loads of attractions, grandiose and smaller scale also await you. The Central Florida area remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world due to the unparalleled allure of the Walt Disney World kingdom. Other major attractions near Orlando, Florida include Sea World and Universal Orlando Resort. Staying in Florida vacation villas in this area places you close to these major theme parks with loads of other attraction destinations near by. The City Beautiful is home to 95 plus attractions and 150 plus golf courses. Hungry? It may be a difficult decision choosing from some of the 4,500 restaurants. Staying in Florida vacation villas close to Orlando, Florida also places you near some unexpected and delightful destinations offering up a collection of cultural and ecotourism offerings.

Florida Vacation Villas Near Kissimmee Florida

Looking for Florida vacation villas accommodations closest to Disneyworld?

Kissimmee, Florida will place you closest to the Disney World of family fun. Lodging in Kissimmee ranges from cheap, discount and low cost to luxury accommodations. Beachtree Villas in Kissimmee, Florida offers spacious and well-appointed 2 and 3 bedroom villas with fully equipped kitchens starting from $46 per night. Condolodge in Kissimmee offers a similar accommodation starting at $46 per night also. Midrange family Florida vacation villas in the Kissimmee area include Emerald Island Resort featuring a range of single family vacation homes and town homes. This resort offers you the privacy and security of a gated community. Prices begin at $91 per night. In this category you may be surprised to learn that Disney World offers the All-Star Sports, Music and Movies resorts all starting at $80 per night. These economy level Disney World resorts are themed after five sports, five music and five movie themes. Rooms contain two double beds, an armoire and a desk. The greatest attraction of these resorts is number one, the price, and secondly the proximity to Disneyworld resorts.

Florida Vacation Villas – Higher End Disney Resorts

For a once-in-a-lifetime family holiday trip that will be sure to thrill the kids and grown-ups alike, it would definitely be worth it to splurge on Florida vacation villas Disney World resorts. There are many from which to choose all offering luxury and impeccable service and accommodations. What else would you expect from Disneyworld? One of the best known Florida vacation villas is the Contemporary Resort, Magic Kingdom. This 15 story pyramid offers a grand view of the Magic Kingdom, providing a panorama of the sparkling skies during the evening fireworks show. Booking reservations here for your vacation villa will give you convenient access to the Magic Kingdom with the monorail running directly through the pyramid. Other amenities include pools, health club, hair salon, hot tubs, boating, water-skiing, children’s programs and on and on it goes. Prices here start at over $220 per night. For the exotic animal lover in the bunch and a sure kids-pleaser, Animal Kingdom Lodge will wow you as giraffes, zebras and other African wildlife nonchalantly roam the three 11 acre savannahs separated by the lodge’s wings. For more information on Disney resorts see www.disneyworld.com.

Cheap Villas – Kissimmee, Florida Area

Not able or ready to spend a fortune on lodging? Deals are available on cheap villas in the Kissimmee area around Disney. Finding the best price or lowest price may mean having the flexibility to book your reservations for cheap villas at the last minute. Cheap villas specials are often found on a villa that would remain vacant if it wasn’t snatched up at the last minute. If you have this kind of flexibility in booking your reservations, keep searching the internet for those last minute specials and be sure you look in that great rate as soon as you see if offered. Cheap villas will more likely be available during the off-season. Peak times are spring break, summer and major holidays. One of the best times to find cheap villas is right after the kids return to school through October. Best Value Inn and Suites in Kissimmee is a 180 room hotel which is close to Disney and offers a resort setting and outdoor pool with major restaurants within walking distance. Prices begin at around $45 per night, a discount price for sure. The Days Inn 192 Orlando-Kissimmee is just 10 minutes to Disneyworld with free shuttle service, heated pool and free continental breakfast all starting at just $45 per night. This is just a sampling. Other great deals for cheap villas can be found by visiting www.orlandoinfo.com.

Cheap Villas – Orlando Area

Renting cheap villas in the Orlando area will place you within easy driving distance to the Disney resorts plus give you quick access to Universal resort and Sea World. Universal Studios is the number one film and television-based theme park in the world. Universal’s Islands of Adventure will thrill you as you journey through its five distinct islands offering adventure and thrills for kids and adults alike. Renting cheap villas in the Orlando area will also place you close to Sea World. A close encounter of the sea life kind awaits you here. This is a place of laughter and joy as the family-oriented animal shows will delight all. Comfort Suites Maingate maintains a 3 diamond AAA rating. Free scheduled transportation is provided to the major theme parks. There is excellent on-site dining with other culinary delights awaiting you close by. Rates here start at just $47.99. Talk about cheap villas! Holiday Inn Maingate West is a 3 star starting at $41.95 per night. Be sure to check out time share rentals also. An option for cheap villas not often thought of, discount rental rates on these unused units can start at $57 per night. A good source is www.redweek.com.

Cheap Villas – Davenport, Florida Area

A little known location that offers quiet respite from the bustling tourist areas of Kissimmee and Orlando is Davenport, Florida. This quaint town located in Polk County and only a short drive from Disney will be just the place to put your feet up and relax after a busy day at the attractions. Davenport is only 2 square miles in size but less than 30 minutes from Walt Disney World, Sea World, Universal Studios, Florida and other attractions. Kennedy Space Center is just one and ¼ hours away and Cocoa Beach and Tampa are accessible within an hour. Cheap Villas accommodations here include Ramada Inn Southgate with its plush tropical landscaping, starting at only $49 per night and Best Western Central Florida, with rates starting at $64 per night. Be sure to ask for specials, discounts and the lowest price when calling for room availability. You may be offered great discount deals when calling that would not be officially publicized. Island Hideawayis a great choice in cheap villas lodging. Rates there start at just $34 for the economy Tiki room in off-season and range up to $150 per night for the five bedroom three bath villa, also during the off-season. Check out the monthly specials as many different discounts are offered. Amenities here include a large pool and kiddie pool, tennis, basketball and volleyball courts, on-site massage and fitness room and other great amenities. For more information see www.islandhideaway.net. There’s just no excuse for not enjoying the beauty and bounty of Central Florida. Start packing!

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By: Art McCarty

Copyright 2005 http://www.islandhideaway.net
amccarty@islandhideaway.net

5 Tips on Enjoying Your Day Spa Visit

There's just something about walking into a day spa, isn't there? It's a haven from your hectic every day life, an oasis that lets you do something just for you. That massage or body treatment feels like a guilty indulgence, even though it's probably necessary for your sanity!

Whether you're visiting a day spa for the first time or the fiftieth, these tips will help you get the most out of your massage, body wrap, aromatherapy, etc.

1. Remember when Mom told you not to swim for an hour after eating? Well, the same holds true for spa visits. Don't eat for at least an hour before a massage or body treatment.

2. Arrive 30 minutes early. If you're worried about being late, tapping your foot waiting for the elevator and rushing to the receptionist desk, you won't get nearly as much out of your visit.

3. RELAX! I know, that's how you're supposed to feel after you're done. If you can take a few deep breaths before your treatment (in the waiting room, since you're early, right?), your experience will be that much more rewarding.

4. Drink LOTS of water before and after. Water enhances the detoxifying and rehydrating benefits.

5. Talk to your therapists - they don't bite! If anything feels off, let them know: too hot/cold, too much pressure/too little pressure, music's too loud - anything. They want you to have the best experience possible so you'll come back for more.

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By: Theresa Carter

Theresa Carter is the creator and publisher of TheLocalTourist.com, a free online guide to downtown Chicago. Find restaurants, bars, spas, salons, events, attractions, shopping, media, transportation – anything Chicago. Theresa also provides a weekly events newsletter. http://www.thelocaltourist.com.
articles@thelocaltourist.com

Top Ten Secrets to Saving Big Money in the Airline Flights

Do you know that some people travel around the country and abroad, for both business and pleasure, and save bundles of money in the process?
They do that by using little known ways of really taking advantage of the most popular form of transportation - airline flights.

They don't rely on the ever-famous “airfare price-wars”. They don't rely on their travel agents to save money while flying.

Certainly, you should not dismiss these two methods. The price-wars can work to your advantage. But depending on them too much is a big mistake.

1. Call the airlines.
Call the airlines between midnight and 1 a.m. Monday through Friday to get cheaper tickets.
Most people never realize that at midnight, airline agents revise and load new fares into their computers. The best fares are just after they have done the updating!

2. Check into other airports other than the main one you use.
Many major cities have two airports. Check into surrounding towns and cities so you can compare airfares. You may save hundreds of dollars on your flights.

3. The early bird catches the plane.
The earlier you book your flight the more you save. Most special fares have restrictions of 7 to 30 day advance purchase. Usually non-refundable but they can offer deep discounts.

On the other hand, there are “last minute” deals too. Visit www.smartliving.com to get emails for last minute deals.

4. Get out of town on Wednesday.
Mid-week travel is usually less expensive. If you leave on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday and stay over a Saturday night, you can garner terrific savings compared to Friday through Monday when most people fly.

Start taking your vacations Wednesday-to-Wednesday or Tuesday-to-Tuesday. You’ll save a lot by choosing your departure and arrival dates this way!

5. Buying a one way or split ticket.
Let’s say you travel from Boston to Dallas. It may be cheaper to get two separate tickets. You could buy one ticket from Boston to Nashville and one from Nashville to Dallas.

It all depends on the connecting cities and your airlines hubs. Just tell your agent you are willing to travel out of other airports and connect using regional airports to save money.

6. Open wide.
You should look into what is called an “Open-Jaw” ticket. These are used when a traveler is arriving and departing from different cities.

One ticket is purchased to cover both cities. Check with your travel agent or airline representative to see if this trick is available instead of two one-way tickets. Compare the price of each.

7. An excellent online service www.sidestep.com
You enter destinations and dates and SideStep quickly searches a couple of dozen affiliated regional and international airlines to find the best rates.

8. “Code share”.
Ask your agent if this flight is a “code-share” flight. That means the same flight is offered by two different airlines. Just copy down the name of the other airline and check into what they are charging.

Only one of the airlines is actually operating the flight. The actual operator always offers this flight for less, so book with them.

9. Sign up for the airline newsletters.
From weekend getaways to international flight packages the newsletter saves you money on travel and doesn’t require that you constantly visit the airline website for the latest offering.

10. The airlines often slash their fares during sluggish travel times.
Scan your travel sections in the newspapers and talk to your agent about these low fares.

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By: Alex Fir

Is Your Travel Experience Limited by Your Credit Card? Alex Fir is providing 250+ pages of insider tips and tricks that teach you how to travel cheap and sometimes free.

Click Here => http://www.webpillar.com/cheaptravel
mailto:info@webpillar.com

Oman Here We Come

Having practically circumnavigated the world and since retired and become an assisant CEO of Florida vacation villa rental website of http://www.fabvillas.com/ I thought I would start to write about the trials and tribulations of same, the travel not the website that is.

Do you use a travel agent or go it alone? Having done both I think the latter is my preference. Nothing difficult in booking a flight to your chosen destination and if your truly adventurous wait till you arrive and get a taxi to take you to a hotel.

My first experience of this was on a trip my wife and I were taking to final destination Oman in the Gulf.

We started to book the flights as stated above and having questioned the price, it was so cheap, it was like the old adage, if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is! The reason for the low price was a) Its not direct b) Its with Egyptian Air and b) the pilot might ask you the way.

That now prompted the wife to say well if it’s going to Cairo we can go and see the pyramids. Like we were visiting long lost friends on the way. Maybe she was, friends from a former life, maybe?

We opted for British Airways in the end (at least the pilot would know the way) and to make it special we opted for Business class as well.

Off we set-to London Airport and from there to Cairo

Arriving in Cairo in the evening. I had taken the time to ask the party that we were eventually meeting in Oman, if he could recommend a suitable hotel in the area. Bad move. The man in question was a minister in the government and as such was accustomed to 1st class everything. Me?

A London cabbie and wife on an adventure.

The hotel verbally recommended was The Oberoi Mena House. So armed with this information my wife and I leave the terminal building into the heady and balmy night air of Cairo. Walk across to the taxi rank and ask the first taxi driver to take us to The Mena House please. You would have thought I had just asked him to sell his daughter into slavery

Remember I have been in this position at Heathrow, where I used to conduct business. I said to my wife, “Oh it must only be local”. This was purely on the cab drivers actions and the look on his face. That pleading look in his eyes, that I must have shown many times. The look that says or (you hope it does) “Oh please guv not me I’ve waited here for over an hour and you only want to go round the corner” Ever had it happen to you?

I was ready to capitulate when all of a sudden a scruffily dressed policeman approached two bewildered tourists and this cab driver who was acting like he had just been diagnosed with some terminal illness and won the lottery at the same time.

“You have a problem” said the policeman. “No, I don’t think so” I said. “Where do you want to go?” he enquired. “Well we wanted to go to the Mena House, but if its only local we’ll take a bus or maybe they have a courtesy service?” says I defending the cabbie in his efforts to “broom the job”

In a most authoritative voice the officer turned to the driver and said “Mena House” accompanied by a cursory wave of the hand.

Still naively trying to defend this hard done by cab driver, I interject “Hey! Look if it’s local I’ll take a bus. How much will it cost to get there?” The policeman repeated the enquiry to the driver. The reply “Eleven Pounds” That in someway told me that it was in fact a short ride. Wrong!!!!!

So the cases were placed into the boot of this beat up vehicle. Nothing like the regulation vehicle I was used to pushing around the streets of the capital back in the UK.

Of paramount importance is the horn must be in full working order. The other attribute is a heavy right foot. So at breakneck speed we departed the airport area and entered what the driver must have. thought The Indianapolis 500.

After 30 minutes or so of swerving, hooting an gasping the white knuckle ride was coming to and end and we were treated to the sight of the pyramids. My wife and I in unison exclaimed Wow!

We had arrived at this opulent and historic hotel “Oberoi Mena House Hotel was originally a royal lodge built for Egypt's Vice King Khedive Ismail and used when he and friends were hunting in the desert or visiting the pyramids.”

The cabbie sprung out of this deathtrap he had the gall to describe as a taxi, I asked “How much” he smiled a toothy grin and replied,” Eleven Pounds effendi” Feeling entrepreneurial I handed him Fifteen pounds. Well you’d have thought I had just given him the key to unlocking King Tuts personal fortune. He bowed and scraped as he took the suitcases into the reception area brushing aside the liveried staff.

That was the start of the adventure

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By: Herman Nuncrush

Herman Nuncrush - 58 years of age ex London cabbie. Retired through ill health but have never felt better since I began travelling the world. Now a CEO of http://www.fabvillas.com/ a website designed for homeowners of rental villas in the Disney area to advertise their homes. Married with 3 children and 7 grandchildren.Enjoy relating my experiences and people have often said you should write them down. So here goes.
herman@mailstamp.co.uk

Florida Bound

Florida bound the wife and our seven children are getting excited about travelling to Kissimmee just by Walt Disney World USA.

We were in the USA in late January and the begining of February.

It was our first time, but we cannot wait to ge back to the sunshine having endured the snow and thoroughly inclement weather here in the UK.

It is our intention to purchase a vacation rental home in the area, hopefully in the Emerald Island Resort or Formosa Gardens, we did have a sneak preview of these two subdivisions whilst there before. Strategically placed just 5 minutes from the Disney theme parks and approx 20 mins from the other major attractions of Sea World and Universal Studios and Islands od Adventure. We used the villa site of Fabvillas who can be found on http://www.fabvillas.com/ the staff there knew we hadnt travelled to the USA before and made every effort to make sure our trip went without a hitch.

I am not sure what the procedure is when buying a house in the USA but I expect I will be guided by an estate agent or whatever they may be called in America.

Once we buy the house we will need to get some furniture but that will give us an excuse to stay longer. May in Florida is supposed to be very pleasant, so will try to hang it out for the full 90 days allowed on the visa.

I hope that we will be able to rent out the house when we are not using it. Everybody else seems to be doing it.

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By: Herman Nuncrush

Herman Nuncrush is 58 years old and a retired shellfish owner/salesman. Having been involved in the fish game for 30 years. Winkles and whelks being tha main stay of the business. He decided to retire and travel the world. Married to Minnie for 20 years and have 7 wonderful children.

Maui Is Like Your First Kiss, You Never Forget It

Just saying the word "Hawaii" conjures up images of brown bodies, warm sunshine, and a romantic walk on the beach in the moonlight. All of this is available and there is much more than meets the eye. The only thing that could hold you back from seeing and doing all that there is to do, is your sense of adventure.

Hawaii is actually made up of six separate islands. Maui is small compared to the "Big Island". But that doesn't mean anything, because what Maui lacks in size, it makes it up in it's atmosphere and personality. Maui serves up plenty of historic and cultural attractions that will captivate your imagination, while exposing the timeless traditions of this magical island. For example, the town of Lahaina is a National Historic District. This was once a thriving whaling port. History buffs will enjoy Lahaina-Kaanapali and the Pacific Railroads provide history lovers with an unforgettable journey into the area’s plantation past.

"Paradise" is a word that that has been used to describe Maui. Any way you slice it, vacationing on Maui is an experience that will bring families closer together. The good news is that there is also a focus on fun and education. You have your pick of outdoor activities, and the Native Hawaiian culture adds to the world-class atractions. The Hawaiian culture focuses on the importance of children and family, and many hotels and resorts have kid and student discount programs available.

Maui's climate (or better yet climates), is a very unique subject in itself. You can go from a desert to a rainforest, all in a matter of hours. And because Maui is small, you can plan a daytrip easily and know that you are going to catch all the sights. It's commonplace to visit the top of Haleaka at 10,000 ft, and still have time to go snorkeling in the calm blue ocean, all within the same day.

Maui's marine environment is spotlighted at the Maui Ocean Center in Ma'alaea. With a wide variety of hands-on exhibits, aquarium displays and a "touch pool", visitors can get close and personal to various ocean creatures like sea urchins and starfish. Some of the other features include live jellyfish, colorful reef fish, shrimp, eels, skipjack tuna, octopus, lobsters, all sorts of different types of rays and even sharks

The Maui Tropical Plantation is another attraction which spotlights the Island's agricultural history. Visitors can take tram tours and see how plantations have played an important part of Maui's growth. You will see acres of sugar cane, papaya, guava, mango, banana, pineapple, kona coffee and macadamia nuts. It's very interesting, and guaranteed to have you sitting on the edge of your seat.

Be sure to make time to visit the Hawaii Nature Center. Here you will discover more more than thirty hands-on exhibits that will enable you to learn about Maui's environment. Would you like to be able to experience the ability to see a hundred directions at once? "Life As A Dragonnfly" is just one of these exhibits that kids and adults will find fascinating. The Naturalists offer a guided tour called the "Rainforest Wilderness Walk" which gives you a detailed background of the history of the area called the "Tao Valley." You will walk away with a greater appreciation for the gifts that nature gives us.

Of course the beaches are another great way to spend your time getting to know the area. Kaanapali Beach (which has also been referred to as "Dig Me" beach), is one of Maui's best beaches. Kaanapali Beach is four miles long, and runs alongside the sea channel for almost it's whole length. The sand is a golden color and has a paved beach walk path. The swimming is awesome and there are many beach activity vendors, offering any type of water activity or equipment that you could imagine.

Whether you stay in the upscale resort hotels or Maui's beach parks and camping facilities, you are guaranteed to have great memories. Don't be surprised if you find yourself back in this beautiful island again. There's just something about the magnetic attraction of Maui.

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By: Elizabeth Ann Wares
http://www.airfarex.com.
elizabeth@airfarex.com

Family Vacation Money Saving Tips

Being a Orlando travel insider, we are revealing our secrets, and rounded up the best ways to cut costs on your next family vacation to Orlando. It all adds up....

1. Put a lid on gas prices. Your best Orlando, FL travel friend on the road should be www.gasbuddy.com, a website that surveys prices at gas stations across the country. You can find a gas station closest to you--wherever you are-- with the cheapest rates. Dont go more than a few blocks out of your way to get the lower price or you will burn in gas what you saved in cash.

2. Get an eticket. When you book your flights, ask for an email confirmation, even if it needs to be send to a neighbors computer. Some airlines charge $25 if you request a paper ticket.

3. Dont change your mind. Since the travel downturn after September 11, most airlines have added a penalty fee of about $100 per ticket for flight changers on nonrefundable tickets, so have a firm plan before you book your reservation to Orlando, FL.

4. Check the discount airlines. Big online travel agencies (such as Orbitz, Travelocity, and Expedia) are great for finding low fares, but some of the discount airlines--including Southwest Airlines (www.southwest.com) and Jetblue (www.jetblue.com)--aren't included in their price comparisons. Go to the airlines' sites to find out whether they offer better deals. Others to try: Spirit Airlines (www.spiritair.com), Song (www.flysong.com), Airtran Airways (www.airtran.com) and Frontier Airlines (www.frontierairlines.com)

5. Brown Bag it. Many discount airlines are able to offer lower rates because they dont serve snacks or meals on board. Avoid the inflated prices of airport food by packing your own.

6. Get a free breakfast. You dont have to stay at a bread-and-breakfast to get a free morning meal for your family. All-suites hotels, such as Holiday Inn offer FREE breakfast that can save you about $10 per person. No breakfast? Ask the hotel for a refrigerator in your room, and buy the things you need for one or more meals per day so you dont have to eat in the pricey hotel restaurant or go ahead an rent a spacious Orlando Villa.

7. Don't get hosed for making phone calls. If your staying at the Wyndam Hotel for example sign up for special program or ensure the villas in Orlando offer free local calls. Otherwise, use your cell phone for all calls or buy a prepaid calling card in advance.

8. Save on rental car insurance. Many credit cards offer automatic insurance on rental cars, so you probably won't need the package the rental company offers if you pay with your card. Just check with your credit card company before the trip. Also check with your auto insurance carrier to see if your plan includes rental cars.

9. Sign up for e-Rewards. Get $1 toward Hertz car rentals, American Airline tickets, and Hilton Hotel rooms for every e-mail you read when you sign up at www.e-rewards.com.
Be sure you do your comparison of villas, hotels, inns, resorts to ensure you find the best fit before making your trip into Orlando FL.

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By: Art McCarty

Copyright IslandHideaway.net All Rights Reserved.
amccarty@islandhideaway.net

Rehoboth Beach For A Vacation Of Fun In The Sun

With summer just around the corner, how are you doing with your vacation plans? Have you ever considered visiting the Delaware Beaches? Beside being known as the "First State", the Rehoboth Beach area in Delaware has also been referred to as "The Nation's Summer Capital".

This pouplar and fun beach resort is located on the Atlantic Coast. Because it's only only two hours from Washington, D.C., Baltimore, MD, Philadelphia, PA, and the South Jersey area, you will enjoy a vacation destination that offers a calmness and welcoming feeling, in a relaxing, slower paced family atmosphere.

Accommodations run the gamut and include anything from quaint bed and breakfasts to fine hotels and everything in between. Apartments, condominiums, cottages, and private homes are just a few of the options to choose from. The local realtors offer services to assist you in finding the ideal lodging for your stay.

There is an abundance of food choices. Whether you decide to eat at your hotel or go exploring, each eatery has their own specialty. Menus range from the local catch of the day to vegetarian. The area is also well known for it's shopping opportunities. There are many local artisans, as well as factory outlets where you can really stretch your vacation dollars.

Another thing that Rehoboth Beach is famous for is its mile-long boardwalk. Many people come down just to walk the boards and watch the ocean waves. You can also bike ride or jog or just hang out and people-watch. If you are lucky enough you can catch a glimpse of dolphins, porpoises, and other wildlife, such as pelicans. Other activities which are great for the kids as well as adults include arcades, musical entertainment, miniature golf and the many festivals that schedule Rehoboth Beach for their venues.

For those of you who are into more natural surroundings, there is Cape Henlopen State Park close by in Lewes, Delaware The open shoreline of Cape Henlopen State Park is perfectly suited for swimming, crabbing, fishing, walking or just soaking up the sun. The highest sand dune between Cape Hatteras and Cape Cod is located on this beach. This "great dune" towers more than 80 feet above the shoreline.

There is a restored World War II Observation Tower, if you are inclined, where the public is able to see the area from a bird's eye view. The story behind the tower is fascinating. Bird lovers will want to keep an eye out for ospreys and hawks. The protected piping plover and bald eagles have also been spotted occasionally.

Finding another location that matches this resort area's variety and charm would be a challenging task, because it really has everything you would want or need to have a fun and relaxing vacation. Do yourself a favor and visit"The Nation's Summer Capital". You'll be glad you did!

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By: Elizabeth Ann Wares

Elizabeth Ann Wares is an avid traveler and shares travel and vacation tips. She is the webmaster of Airfare X, a leading resource for discount airfare: http://www.airfarex.com/
elizabeth@airfarex.com

Golfing in the Algarve

Only two to three hours away by air from most of Europe's major airports is the sunny Algarve in Southern Portugal. Known for its spectacular coastline and rugged mountain scenery the Algarve is one of Europe's premier golfing destinations. There are no less than 24 golf courses spread out along this most southern province of Portugal, several of which are classified as championship golf courses hosting many international golfing events.

Most of the golf courses can be found to the west of Faro, including the famous San Lorenzo course - rated as the second-best course in Europe. Set in the splendid surroundings of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve, the San Lorenzo course has become a 'must play' course for all those who come to visit the Algarve for its golf. There are some challenging holes and tricky water features to negotiate around the course, and when coupled with the amazing scenery, it makes for an epic round of golf.

Further along the Algarve coastline is the Royal Course at Val de Lobo. Incorporating fairways and greens set in an undulating landscape of pine trees, the Royal Course serves up a fine golfing experience for all who come here. The course includes the famous par 3 9th hole, which takes players over a beautiful lake and onto a semi-island green - it's a challenge for even the most experienced of golfers! But, if you fancy a sea view then you might be more at home at Val de Lobo's other course - the Ocean Course.

The Ocean Course is set along undulating cliffs that descend down to golden sandy beaches. Narrow fairways are a feature of this course, as are the ochre coloured rocks that line the cliff sides and snake along the course edge. Adding to the challenge golf players must compensate for sea breezes that regularly caress the course. All in all, it makes for a memorable round of golf.

Southwest Portugal

Eight of the Algarve's twenty-four courses are situated in the Southwest. Within 20-minutes of Faro is the Vale do Milho - an ideal practice course on which beginners can learn the game and holidaymakers can sharpen their golfing skills. A little further to the west is Quinta do Gramacho - Europe's first 'double-nine' designed course, with only 9 fairways but 18 holes. If you want a unique golfing experience, then Quinta do Gramacho is the perfect course on which to play.

For those on a tour of the golf courses in the Algarve, the Alto Golf course is sure worth a visit. Situated close to the coastline it offers fine views of the sea and the nearby mountains. The course was designed by Sir Henry Cotton - three-times British Open Champion - and takes in fairways and greens along some beautiful undulating terrain surrounded by vineyards.
Finally, no golfing visit to the Algarve is complete without playing a round of golf at Penina. Located close to the fishing village of Alvor, Penina was the first grass course in the Algarve. It is rated as one of Europe's finest and plays host to a range of international tournaments each year.

Visitor Information

Faro is the main international airport in the Algarve. Most of the golf courses are located to the west of the Algarve, Parque de Floresta golf course - the Algarve's most westerly course - being just under an hour's drive from the airport. Car hire is available from Faro airport.

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By: Seb Jay

Seb Jay is a professional copywriter specialising in the origination of web content for http://www.your-carhire.com.

Secrets Of Cheap Travel

There are two ways to save money traveling. The first way is to get the best deals on the specific things you want. There is a limitation to this type of approach though. If , for example, you find the lowest price on the best hotel in Honolulu at the height of the season, you will save money, but still have a very expensive vacation. Trying to get exactly what you want, or what you think you want, will generally be an expensive proposition, in travel and in life.

Be A Travel Opportunist

The other approach is to be a true opportunist. This will be difficult for some of you, and entirely unacceptable to others. Nonetheless, the travelers who get to travel the most, go to the widest variety of places, learn the most and do the most, are the opportunists. This will be true until you are so wealthy that you have no monetary limits.

The first time I went to Ecuador, I went there because it was cheap. If it wasn't, I would have had a great time - somewhere else. The trip lasted a month, and cost $1045, which included airfare and even the $130 fee for a guide to take me to the top of glacier-covered Mount Chimborazo.

I cut the cost by taking a bus from my home in Michigan to Miami, and back again when I returned from Ecuador. The round-trip ticket cost $158. The round-trip flight to Quito from Miami was only $256, because it was a courier flight, which meant I signed for some luggage (car parts), and could only take carry-on luggage.

Never did I feel deprived, or bored. I had a great time, eating wherever it was cheap and clean, doing all sorts of inexpensive, but interesting things, and traveling across the country to climb Chimborazo. I also met and fell in love with my wife Ana.

How To Become An Opportunist Traveler

Can you drink rum at a dollar per bottle, instead of your favorite beer? Can you eat chicken instead of steak? How about visiting the free sights first, and dancing in the street festival instead of the disco?

Being an opportunist means you'll have just as much variety, and probably almost everything you want - eventually. You just have to stop trying to get exactly what you want exactly when you want it. If the guide that took me up Chimborazo hadn't dropped his price from $200 to $130, I would have spent $2 for a bus and gone hiking on El Altar, another great Andean mountain. That would have left me with enough money for several other minor adventures.

More Secrets Of Cheap Travel

Plane Tickets: My wife and I were planning a trip to visit family in Ecuador. The cheapest airfare from Traverse City, Michigan to Quito, was $1720. Out of curiosity, I checked Miami to Quito, and it was only $404. Airfare from Traverse City to Miami was $300. Book two separate flights and save more than $2000! The discount sites aren't set up to search in this way (yet), so you have to do this on your own. By the way, the whole six-week trip, which we took in 2004, cost $2400, including losing $100, and being robbed of $174.

Food: Whether traveling here or in other countries, it is usually cheaper to buy some healthy snacks in a grocery store, rather than eat every meal in a restaurant. When you do eat in restaurants, it can be cheaper to to order individual items on the menu from the list of appetizers or side dishes. You also may get more variety in that way.

Accomodations: For a long trip, you may want to rent an apartment in an interesting city. We did this for two months in Tucson, for about $600 less per month, compared to even the cheaper motels. Watch for hotel coupon-books in gas stations. The coupons will often save you $10 on a room you would have stayed in anyhow. If you have a conversion van or RV, you can camp a couple nights a week, like we do, to save on motels. We love the hotsprings we've stayed at, for a $3 fee to the BLM, instead of $40 for the cheapest motel in the area.

Travel Expenses: Do more and travel less. It is often the traveling part that costs the most, due to the cost of gas, convenient fast food, and expensive hotels you are forced to pay for when you just can't drive any further. So if you find a place with a reasonable motel, and a lot to do in the area - stay for a while!

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By: Steve Gillman

Steve Gillman first hit the road on his own when at sixteen, and traveled alone across the United States and Mexico at 17. Now 40, he continues to travel and backpack with his wife Ana, whom he met in Ecuador. Many of his stories, plus tips and information on travel and lightweight backpacking, can be found on his websites, http://www.EverythingAboutTravel.com and http://www.TheUltralightBackpackingSite.com.

A Prison in Paradise

In the middle of San Francisco bay, framed by some of the most beautiful and majestic views in the country lies Alcatraz Island. A federal penitentiary is not usually included on the list of one’s vacation plans, however the history and beauty of this island warrant an exception. From 1934 to 1963 a number of the most feared criminals in the American penal system called “the rock” home. Famous for the stark contrast between its stunningly serene surroundings and the harshness of life and character inside its walls, Alcatraz has found its way into American lore.

Originally named “Isla de los Alcatraces”, or “Island of the Pelicans” it was later changed and shortened to Alcatraz. Today looking out from the island visitors see a picturesque view from the Golden Gate Bridge, and downtown San Francisco, to the Bay Bridge, and Treasure Island. One can for a moment imagine this location as the setting of a luxurious resort. Turning from the views outside the island to its interior contents however, quickly brings back the notion that this island was the scene of a less comfortable history.

Most famous for its role as a prison, Alcatraz was initially a military base. When gold was discovered in California in 1848 San Francisco’s population jumped from 300 to 30,000 in a matter of years. With this new influx of population and wealth there was a need for the United States government to protect the area from other nations. In 1850 when California became a state, a triangle of fortifications was planned to protect San Francisco Bay. Upon its completion in 1853 Fortress Alcatraz took on the lead role as the most powerful coastal defense on the western coast. The landscape of the island was incorporated into the design, and high walls were built on the rocky isle, leaving the dock as the only access to the fort.

Alcatraz was never called upon to defend the bay, however a number of small incidents during the Civil War brought the island into the spot light. As its use as a defensive fortress lessoned, the island began to take on a new role, that of military prison. Eleven enlisted men were incarcerated in the guardhouse basement in 1859, and slowly deserters, thieves, and other military criminals were sent there from the San Franciscan forts. Finally in 1861 Alcatraz was named the official prison for the Department of the Pacific. The island served this role until 1933 when the cost of importing supplies led the Army to leave, sending prisoners to Kansas and New Jersey.

At this point crime in America had become an increasing problem, fed largely by the troubles associated with prohibition. A new prison was sought that could take the worst of the country’s criminals, and seclude them from the public. While land in Alaska was originally considered, the Army’s recent departure from Alcatraz cemented the island as the choice for America’s new “super-prison”. The facility was to take in the most troublesome of inmates from other prisons around the nation.

In 1934, Al Capone, perhaps the penitentiary’s most infamous prisoner, arrived as one of the first official transfers. His arrival generated enormous interest, and sparked more headlines then the opening of the prison itself. Previously while imprisoned in Atlanta, Capone had been able to achieve a lifestyle within the jail that was unheard of for other prisoners. A carpeted cell and a radio were among the niceties he was able to procure through bribes and other methods. He was even able to continue to manage his organization through relatives who established themselves in a nearby hotel. For this reason he was put on a secure prison railroad car without notice, and shipped to Alcaztraz in the hopes that the lack of outside contact would be the government’s answer to the Capone problem. On the rock Capone was never able to manipulate the warden or guards, and was confined to menial duties along with the rest of the prison population. Staying only 4 ½ years due to health complications Capone left for FCI Terminal Island in 1939.

Despite J. Edgar Hoover’s displeasure with the idea, rising costs and a new federal prison in Illinois brought about the closing of Alcatraz in 1963. Capone, along with other famous inmates such as George “Machine Gun” Kelly, Alvin Karpis, and Robert Franklin Stroud (the birdman of Alcatraz), ensured that the prison would live in American minds for years to come. Today the island is run by the National Parks Service, which offers daily tours of the former prison. Visitors can marvel at the wildlife, gardens, and fantastic views from the high cliffs before entering the cell house where they can be locked within one of the solitary confinement cells. There in the cold pitch black room they can experience for just a brief moment what life must have been like at the prison in paradise.

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By: Nate Soule

Nate Soule is a travel enthusiast and helps maintain the travel website AcrossDistance.com

(http://www.acrossdistance.com).

Western Caribbean Cruise

We were on the Radiance of the Seas for the western Caribbean cruise on November 28/04. This was our second cruise with Royal Caribbean with our first last year on the larger Adventure of the Seas. After one cruise with RCI, I expected roughly the same standards with the Radiance and in general, I wasn't disappointed.

Staterooms:

Our stateroom was an inside aft cabin and we were not disappointed. It was roomy enough and the lighting was adequate. Closet space and drawers were also sufficient for our use. We noticed that the double beds here were actually a bit better than the one we had on the Adventure since we couldn't really feel the split between the two separate beds like we did last time. If there's one thing that can be improved is the shower curtain. The one installed was not adequate in keeping in all the water from the shower. The shower on the Adventure utilized a double glass door system which was far superior. Otherwise, the cabin was nice and dark for sleeping at night. Although we heard a little noise from the cabins next to us, it was minimal. We didn't miss having any window or balcony at all since we were hardly ever in our stateroom. We were either at port or elsewhere on the ship and went back to our cabins just to relax or sleep. We would definitely book an inside cabin again with RCI unless we had a free upgrade.

Dining:

The main Cascades dining room was nice and meals were good. Breakfasts had the same menu every morning. Lunch at the dining room was okay. The dinners were good but not every meal item was a winner. There was the odd appetizer and dessert that was not up to par. One thing that my partner noticed was that the portions of the main courses seemed to be smaller than those served on the Adventure. We usually went upstairs to the Windjammer to get more food after dining at the Cascades. In some parts of the Cascades room, the tables were placed too cramp so walking to out own table was tricky at times. The self serve Windjammer was good. It usually had more variety of food than served downstairs at the Cascades. Breakfast and lunch were busy at the Windjammer but during evenings, most people chose to dine at the Cascades. The two other optional restaurants onboard Portafino and Choppe House were available at $20 US per person but we never tried them since the meals already included at the Cascades and Windjammer were fine by us. Other passengers who did go to these optional rooms told us that they were nothing special. There was another cafe available during late evenings called the Seaview and they provided fare such as sandwiches, salads and burgers. This was a nice feature. One thing we did object to was that they charged for the coffee and tea there. There was also a specialty coffee place on the main centrum of the ship and they also charged. We had more availability of free beverages on the Adventure.

Service:

The service by the stateroom attendants and dining room staff was top notch as expected.

Entertainment:

The evening shows at the Aurora Theatre were a mix of the ship's own crew of dancers and singers plus some outside comics and singers. In general, the shows were quite good. We would have liked them to mix up the entertainment each night rather than allocate music, comedy and magic into different evenings. Rather than an entire show of magic, we would have preferred each night featuring a variety of entertainment. Live music around the ship was a nice added touch.

Amenities:

Although smaller than the Adventure, the Radiance had fine amenities including the gym/spa, mini golf, pools and the shops. There was internet access but at 50 cents per minute, the service is a bit steep. There were things to do during the days at sea such as art auctions, cooking demos and dance classes. However, we felt that there was more offered on the Adventure. As for embarking and disembarking, there was no problem on the Radiance. The 6th level contained the casino and for non-smokers, this was a problem. The ventilation in the casino was not great and as a result, cigarette smoke travelled to adjacent areas near the casino. My partner wanted to avoid going on the 6th level whenever possible.

In summary, we enjoyed our cruise on the Radiance of the Seas. However, comparing it to the larger Adventure of the Seas, we would rate the larger ship a bit higher. We liked the huge promenade on the Adventure which was not available on a smaller ship like the Radiance. Given a choice in the future, we would opt for the larger ship. For first time cruisers, the Radiance would still be a good ship to vacation on. This is simply the case of where veteran cruisers would expect more especially if they have been on higher end ships.

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By: Clint Leung

Clint Leung is owner of Free Spirit Gallery (http://www.FreeSpiritGallery.ca), an online gallery specializing in Inuit and Northwest Native art including carvings, sculpture and prints. Free Spirit Gallery has numerous information resource articles with photos of authentic Inuit and Native art as well as free eCards.

Alaska Cruise Or Land Tour For A Vacation That Warms Your Heart

Besides its reputation for being "cold", what else do you know about our 49th State? Alaska has an abundance of things to do and see, whether you are a first time vacationer or a returning traveler. There is no other place like Alaska for traveling and exploring. Alaska is 586,000 square miles. With an area that big, think about the possibilities.

Here are just a few of the attractions that are available and are sure to whet your appetite for adventure. Wildlife viewing, helicopter tours, and train rides are very popular. You can also relax on a bus tour into Denali State Park, watch a totem pole being carved, or try your luck at catching one of Alaska’s world famous King Salmon.

It would take (2) lifetimes to experience everything Alaska has to offer. With its vast wilderness, Alaska provides opportunities for viewing wildlife either up close or from far away, in its natural habitat. For example, Alaska holds the distinction of having the largest Eagle population in the world. Whether you are a nature lover or not, just seeeing these magnificent birds soar throught the air is enough to take your breath away. With a wilderness area that is 2 1/2 times the size of the state of Texas, you can be guaranteed excellent photo opportunities.

It's hard to believe that Alaska has the largest temperate rain forest in the United States. Take the time to walk in it and discover this incredible gift. Indescribable adventures await you whereever your journey takes you in Alaska. Every "ice-blue" glacier and historic waterfront town calls for you to jump in to explore and discover its uniqueness and beauty. Give yourself the freedom to answer this "call of the wild". In every city from Anchorage to Fairbanks and beyond, there's plenty to do and see.

One of the ways to see this beautiful state is to cruise the Inner Passage. Taking one of the cruise ships is a simple way to get your feet wet and explore the state. You have the security of knowing that your basic needs like food, transportation, and your lodging is handled while you have the freedom of choosing any number of activities.

Depending on the town you stop in, you can choose to go whale watching, or take a helicopter trip and walk on a glacier. You can ride the White Pass Railroad or pan for gold. You can even take a Jeep tour on a logging trail and top it off with a salmon bake. Also, every town appears to have their own special and historical events happening on a regular basis and you definitely want to catch these, as well. There are also many fascinating museums and remember to save time to see the stunning Aurora Borealis, especially if you go in the fall.

Alaska seems to have it all. From world famous Parks & Preserves to Volcanos. From Historical & Annual Events and everything in between. With such variety, it’s surprising that anyone would look anywhere but north when vacation time comes. Alaska is a great American Vacation destination that you will want to experience for yourself at least once in your lifetime.

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By: Elizabeth Ann Wares

Elizabeth Ann Wares is an avid traveler and shares travel and vacation tips. She is the webmaster of Airfare X, a leading resource for discount airfare: http://www.airfarex.com

elizabeth@airfarex.com

Orlando Vacation Fun Begins (or Ends) with Gatorland

What’s Gatorland? Well, I’m glad you asked.

Gatorland is a great “in between” place to visit while you’re in Orlando for vacation.

Let me explain.

When visitors first arrive in Orlando they often have half a day or so of time on their hands before they start touring the major theme parks. Or, maybe they find themselves in the opposite situation. They’re at the tail-end of their trip and they want something to do after they’ve already hit the big attractions.

Gatorland is a perfect place to fill this void. There’s enough to see and do here to take up a good half day (more if you want). But what you’ll see is enough to have the kids talking all the way home.

This family owned Alligator-themed park has been open for business since 1949. Activities within its 110 acres include the chance to:
See big alligators

• Take a Floridian wildlife train ride
• Visit a bird aviary and sanctuary
• Check out a “breeding marsh”
• Enjoy a petting zoo with your little ones
• Do a nature walk
• Visit a Gator gift shop
• And best of all - - 4 great shows

According to the Gatorland website, this place started out as the dream of a man named Owen Godwin, Sr.

He built an alligator pit in the backyard of his home in the 1930’s and put a female alligator in it with her babies. He and the Mrs. would host visitors and sell homemade gator souvenirs while letting them see the gators.
Godwin apparently really enjoyed doing this. He planned for a bigger attraction that would show off more of Florida’s wildlife. In 1947, after the war, he bought 16 acres of property near Kissimmee. Since this was the dawn of 20th century American highway tourism, more and more families were visiting Florida.

With the help of a few investors his idea caught on. Now, thousands visit this park each year. As a matter of fact, Gatorland claims to be “central Florida’s first major attraction”. It now features all kinds of reptiles and Florida wildlife.

The 4 main shows at Gatorland include:

The “Gator Jumparoo Show” - featuring the alligators’ ability to jump out of the water in search of food.

The “Gator wrestlin’ Show” - with a 6-8 foot gator being subdued, put to sleep, then re-awakened.

“Jungle Crocs” - detailing 4 types of crocodiles and their environment.

The “Upclose Animal Encounters Show” – filled with differing animals from around the world - - including some dangerous snakes.

Gatorland is open everyday, rain or shine, from 9am to 5pm. It's on Hwy 441 near Kissimmee. Tickets range from $19.95 for adults (ages 13 and over) and kids (ages 3-12) are currently $9.95.

I featured Gatorland at http://www.orlando-vacation-guide.com/Gatorland.html If you visit my site make sure you see if you can get discount tickets through the vendor on my website.

And say “hi” to the gators for us when you go.

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By: Joe Farinaccio

Joe Farinaccio is a freelance copywriter who also loves writing about vacationing in Orlando, Florida. His website www.Orlando-Vacation-Guide.com offers visitors lots of information on saving time, money, and finding interesting things to do while in Orlando to make the most of their vacation.
Joe@orlando-vacation-guide.com

All Inclusive Vacations

Most of the time, when an individual is planning a vacation, they have to consider all aspects of the time they will spend away from home. The lodging, the transportation, the meals and so on are all things that have to be thought of. One way to limit the expense that all of this creates, is to book an all inclusive vacation. While this will not alleviate all of the things an individual has to think about, it will help to reduce the amount of planning that is needed.

All inclusive vacations usually include accommodations, meals, tips, and taxes are included in the package. Sometimes, they can also include attractions, airfare, and transportation as well. To find an all inclusive vacation that fits the needs of an individual, several things should be taken into consideration. All inclusive vacations wrap the cost of all these expenses into one. That is not to say that an individual can not find great deals on these items individually. But, often an all inclusive vacation includes all of this at a discounted rate.

If considering an all inclusive vacation, one should check out the deals that are available. Individuals who are really looking for the best deal should take the time to find out if all inclusive vacations they have found are a better deal. But, in the end, they can find all this information and do so from their home. The Internet is a great tool in planning a vacation, including an all inclusive vacation. Most big attractions have all inclusive vacations planned for them. To find the options available to anyone, it is as simple as finding the right Internet sites. An all inclusive vacation may be just the thing to help make planning a vacation less of a struggle and more of an enjoyment. And, it may just save some money!

So before you make your next travel reservations, visit www.e-travelpromos.com and check out the all inclusive vacation deals from our partners.

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By: Sandy Baker

staff writer at http://www.e-travelpromos.com

Alcanar (Costa Dorada)

Alcanar belongs to the district of Montsia of the province of Tarragona. It covers a territorial extension of 47,1 Km2. It is located between the Mediterranean Sea and the massif of Montsia. The ground is mainly predominated by the calcareous stone, with lots of erosion, and full of bushes resistant to drought.

ALCANAR, POPULATION

According to the last census carried out by the Nacional Institute of Stadistics, in 2001 there were 8032 inhabitants.

ALCANAR, HISTORY

The town’s name was given by the arabs, which means ‘shop’ or ‘tent’. Its Christian foundation dates back to the XIII Century. During this time the King Jaume I handed over to his inhabitants the town’s letter, which gave them the independence from the city of Tortosa.

ALCANAR, GASTRONOMY

A traditional menu to ask for would be: ‘Picadetes de frutos tipicos del Delta’ for starters, ‘suquet de pescado’ for main course, and panoli for dessert.

ALCANAR, FIESTAS AND TRADITIONS

The locals celebrate throughout the year three important festivities: ‘San Isidro’ in may, ‘Les Cases’ in august, and ‘San Miguel’ in October. Also mention that every five years they have a procession called ‘Quinquenales’, that consists in carrying La Virgen from the Ermita through the town.

ALCANAR, PLACES TO VISIT

1. Ermita del Remei.

2. Iglesia Parroquial de San Miguel.

3. Roman Bridge dels Estrets.

4. Casa del Marques.

5. Moleta del Remei.

6. Cisterna del Vall.

7. The beaches of les Cases d’Alcanar.

8. The mountain range of Montsia.

9. Cuenca del riu de la Senia.

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By: Armando Zanolla

The Director of Zar Holiday Villas

www.zarholidayvillas.com

Albinyana (Costa Dorada)

The municipality of Albinyana belongs to the district of Baix Penedes of the province of Tarragona. It covers a territorial extension of 19, 4 Km2. The town is 198 meters above sea level and is located in the northern part of la Serra Del Quadrella. The suburbs of ‘Les Peces’, ‘les Masies Del Torrent’ and ‘Tomaví’ also belong to Albinyana.

ALBINYANA, POPULATION

According to the last census carried out by the National Institute of Statistics, in 2001 there were 1.630 inhabitants.

ALBINYANA, HISTORY

There is evidence of prehistory in the town, such as the cave paintings found by archaeologists in ‘La cueva de Vallmajor’, ‘Sierra del Quadrell’. Also there are ruins from the roman era. The name Albinyana appeared for the first time in the year 1010, in the will of Adalbert, who left the castle to the monastery of ‘Sant Cugat Del Vallès’. According to the Cartulary of Sant Cugat, Albinyana was founded in the year 1040, when Abbot Guitart gave the 'Carta de Població' (a population permit) to Bernat d´Oleguer, on condition that he would build a castle and populate the place. Abbot Guitart kept half the tax privileges and the right to designate the priest for the Castle’s church. From the ‘Reconquista’ to the year 1835 the town was under the ruling of the ‘Abades’ from the ‘Monastery of Sant Cugat del Valles’. The religious monument of the town is the ‘Parroquial Church of San Bartolome’, built in the XVIII century. On the Sierra del Quadrell there is the Chapel of San Antoni!

o where from one can stare at the magnificent views it has. From the Arab era there are only the ruins of a castle.

ALBYNIANA, GASTRONOMY

In this district the traditional asking menu is: ‘Xato’ for starters, ‘Ajo quemado’, ‘pescado azul’ for main course, and ‘bufats’ for dessert.

ALBINYANA, ECONOMY

As Albinyana is further inland, tourism in not the main power of income, so this leaves the agriculture in top ranking. The chief crops are the vineyards, cereals, hazelnuts, almonds and olive trees, although, nowadays, only around 30% of the territory is cultivated. The traditional industry in town was the making of baskets with ‘palmito’ leaves, which lasted until half the 20th century, and also the back skins of animals, supplying the tanning industries in Igualada. Nowadays there is a flower plantation and a small textile factory, both located in suburb of Los Peces. In 1972, an animal reservation was created, which has been lately completed introducing animal species and with the opening of the water park 'Aqualeón', which nowadays brings more than a few tourists to the area.

ALBINYANA, FIESTAS AND TRADITIONS

On the 16th of July there is the festivity of ‘Mare de Deu del Carmen’ and on the 24th of August ‘San Bartolome’. On Easter Monday there is a meeting at the shrine of Sant Antoni, with the saying of a mass, the eating of the 'Mona', a traditional Catalan pastry, games for the children and the famous Sardanes dancing of Catalonia.

ALBINYANA, PLACES TO VISIT

1. The Vall Major cave and its rupestrian paintings.

2. The Parish Church of Sant Bartomeu, from the 18th century.

3. The shrine of Sant Antoni de Padua, situated on top of la Serra del Quadrell.

4. According to Ruy Fernández, the castle of Albinyana was built by the Arabs as a watchtower, but nowadays only the foundations and the base of the round tower remain.It is also interesting to visit the building called 'Cal Gener' and its wonderful graffitto, in the suburb of Les Peces.

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By: Armando Zanolla
The Director of Zar Holiday Villas.

The reason of this series of articles is directed to individuals that whish to Move into Spain; but they feel the need to improve there knowledge of the region. You will find a general knowledge of all the major cities in the Costa Dorada in Spain together with there costumes and traditions, there gastronomy and there festivals, and much more…
www.zarholidayvillas.com

A Wedding in the Bahamas

Do you envision your wedding in a tropical paradise? Perhaps you see yourself exchanging vows on the warm sand beside an aquamarine sea or sailing off into the sunset with ten of your dearest friends to enjoy a wedding feast and the spectacular scenery. If such a scenario appeals to you, a Bahamas wedding can make your dream come true.

In order to be eligible for a legal Bahamas wedding, you and your partner must spend one day in the Bahamas before submitting an application for a marriage license ($100). You must provide a photo ID. If you are widowed, you are required to provide the death certificate of your spouse; if you are divorced, you must provide a document proving that you are legally divorced. You will also need to have proof of your arrival date in the Bahamas (your Bahamas Embarkation Card will do). It is recommended that you obtain a copy of your wedding certificate before you leave the Bahamas. It can be mailed to you if time is an issue but delays and complications have been frequently encountered. Once you arrive home, you will need this marriage certificate in order to obtain other legal documents.

Wedding packages are offered at most hotels and resorts in the Bahamas. Prices vary. Here are a few examples:

• The Bluff House Beach Hotel located in Green Turtle Bay, Abaco, Bahamas, offers a wedding package that includes: a wedding coordinator, a wedding cake, a minister or administrator to perform the ceremony, a photographer, the bride’s bouquet and a bottle of champagne. They will also be happy to arrange for a live band and a buffet.
• Small Hope Bay Lodge located in Andros Island, Bahamas, is a smaller resort consisting of 20 cottages, one of which is a honeymoon cottage. It offers a simple wedding package for $500 which includes all the necessary paper work, a cake and champagne, a video and photos. At this resort you can get married on the beach or even underwater!
• Bahamas Wedding Paradise is an organization that offers several wedding packages. You can select one of their packages or design your own. Packages range in price from $360 to over $3000 (please note that Bahamas Wedding Paradise is not a hotel or a resort).

Make the wedding of your dreams a reality and start your married life in the tropical paradise of the Bahamas.

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By: Ester Napoli

info@gloriousbahamas.com

Ester Napoli: They say if you want to be happy, you have to do something you are passionate about. One of my passions is traveling and the one place I fell in love with was the Bahamas; the white sand, clear waters, friendly environment. It is paradise on earth. I enjoy all aspects of the Bahamas; the culture, the history, the countless sports and activities to keep you busy, and of course, the fabulous weather. Website: Glorious Bahamas Real Estate (www.gloriousbahamas.com).

High Roller or Kid In A Stroller - Las Vegas Has It All

Las Vegas is much more than jangling one arm bandits, and noisy casinos. Seriously, there is so much more to do than gamble and eat from mile-long buffet tables. Las Vegas is home to the some of the finest nightlife, shopping, attractions, and golf courses in the world.

Your entertainment options are unlimited in this city known as "America's Playground". There are thrilling roller coasters, dolphin and magic shows, and street shows such as Treasure Island's life-like pirate battle. You can even tour Egypt in a simulated ride. There are places to bowl, enjoy a leisurely spa, shop 'til you drop, and even get married. The possibilities are almost overwhelming, so make sure to plan, or have some sort of idea what you would like to see and do while you are there.

You will definitely want to put a trip to Fremont Street on your itinerary. Fremont Street is located in the heart of downtown Las Vegas and is a short stroll from many hotels or you can ride the public transportation which is extremely clean and passenger friendly. Look overhead as you walk the 4 block long Fremont Street Experience and you will be awed by the over 2.1 million lights and the state-of-the-art sound system in the canopy constructed 90 feet over street level.

If you are vacationing and wanting to spoil yourself, then you have come to the perfect place. Many of the spas offer fitness centers. In addition you can treat yourself to facials, massages, body wraps, saunas, heated whirlpools, steam rooms and other treatments, including tanning.

Don't dare miss the fountains at Bellagio. It is one of the most spectacular and memorable sights in Las Vegas or maybe even the world! You will be mesmerized as the water takes on a life all it's own and dances in perfect synchronization to broadway favorites and opera and everything thing else in between. Best of all this show is also free.

While you are at Bellagio, make time to tour their gardens. You will feel yourself relax, as you enter this tranquil oasis. With over 85,000 square foot of space the conservatory has 1,200 exotic plants and flowers such as orchids and lilies. Every month, the fragrant displays are changed to keep the scenery fresh.

On May 15, 2005, Las Vegas will be celebrating its 100th Birthday! It's an historic event that has something to offer everyone. The Centennial Celebration Committee has promised to commemorate the 100th birthday by hosting a birthday party that’s bigger and brighter than the neon lights on the Las Vegas Strip! The party actually started on December 31, 2004 and will last for more than a year.

With all the resorts competing for your business, you will be able to find cheap or at least heavy discounts on rooms and meals. Seniors and students can find special airfare and accomodations to suit their budgets. Las Vegas is resort whereby you can spend as much or as little as you want and have a great experience.

Daytime or nightime, Las Vegas is a wonderful place to bring the whole family to vacation or just get away with someone special. And with the BIG Centennnial planned, what better time than the present?

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By: Elizabeth Ann Wares

Elizabeth Ann Wares is an avid traveler and shares travel and vacation tips. She is the webmaster of Airfare X, a leading resource for discount airfare: http://www.airfarex.com elizabeth@airfarex.com

Vacation Destinations

Many times, when we plan a vacation, we know where we want to go. But, perhaps you don’t have a specific place in mind and are looking for some vacation destinations to choose from. The first order of business is to decide your budget. Yes, you’ll have to number crunch and find out how much you want to spend. From there, finding vacation destinations is simple.

Perhaps you are looking for information on some of the big name vacation destinations such as Disney World, Las Vegas, or the Bahamas? Finding information on these vacation destinations is simple as it is everywhere you look. Or, perhaps you want a specific kind of vacation like a tropical island, a beach, or a ski resort? There are exotic vacation destinations and family oriented vacation destinations. The sky is the limit.

To find information regarding different vacation destinations, it is no longer necessary to visit the travel agent or even the library. There is a wealth of information right on the internet that you can get right from your home. It’s as simple as doing a web search for one of the many vacation planning websites. One great example is http://www.e-travelpromos.com where you can find many choices in vacation destinations.

Now, back to the budget we go. While we can look at all kinds of vacation destinations and set our dreams high, remember to realize that all vacation destinations will cost you something. Remember to consider hotel accommodations, airfare or transportation to the location, car rentals, meals, drinks, taxes, tips, and spending money. You may choose to visit a vacation destination where there are a lot of sites to see. Realize that most likely you will need to pay a per person fee to see attractions or to rent equipment. There are many items to include in your budget. Once you have done this you can consider which vacation destination will be right for you.

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By: Sandy Baker

Sandy Baker is staff writer at http://www.e-travelpromos.com

Detroit Airport Parking

Detroit Metro Airport is all about service upgrades and technology transformations for the 21st century. The addition of new jet runways in 2001-2002 along with the opening of the new Edward McNamara as well as an expanded Dingell Drive airport parking and access drive off of Interstate 275 and Interstate 70 are key design elements in a multi-billion dollar capital works program to make Detroit Metro one of the world’s best transportation centers. Amidst the service upgrades are capacity expansions of on airport parking and the supporting services necessary to quickly translate travelers’ arrival at the airport parking into expedited movement to one of the three main terminal buildings at Detroit Metro

In addition to local road access such as Eureka Road to Detroit Metro Airport parking and terminals, you can drive to the Airport via Interstate 275 and Interstate 70, taking the well marked exit signs #15 to the airport via Dingell Drive exit. Parking at airport options are enormous at Detroit Metro which with the recent addition of over 11,000 new spaces offers nearly 20, 000 on airport parking spaces and support services to travelers. For long term on airport parking at the new Big Blue Deck Lot your costs will be $3.00 per hour up to a daily rate maximum of $10.00 per vehicle. Another long term airport parking facility is offered within the new McNamara Terminal garage where airport parking costs are $3.00 per hour however with an upper limit of $11.00 per day per vehicle in the covered garage. Also within the McNamara Terminal airport parking garage is a short term parking area where the first hour will cost $5.00 and a 24-hour period will cost $25.00 per auto. Another short term airport parking surface lot is available, also reflecting costs of $5.00 for the first hour and $25.00 for a day’s on airport parking.

Meanwhile, for the traveler requiring expedited curbside airport parking service in order to quickly reach an interior flight gate, then valet service can be secured for a flat rate per day of $28.00 per day. Rental car pick ups and returns are managed in separate on airport parking garages noted in the directional signs on either side of the entry road into McNamara Terminal area. Your 24-hour hot line number for Detroit Metro Airport parking is 800.642.1978

In addition to the 20,000 on airport parking spaces operated by Detroit Metro Airport Parking, the region also offers off airport parking facilities operated by private firms which also provide state of the art transportation services, continually running free shuttle bus services to the main terminals.

While you’re airborne en route to other destination, the folks at Detroit Metro Airport parking continue to work for you, providing 24-hour security and surveillance monitoring of your vehicle and the surrounding airport parking area in order to prevent criminal break in attempts, theft, terrorist acts or fire from occurring.

All on airport parking garages and lots at Detroit Metro provide reserved handicap parking spaces, and all shuttle buses are handicap-enabled along with the interior passage ways within McNamara Terminal.

Detroit Metro Airport parking can be paid for via major credit card such as MasterCard or American Express, paid for with cash, or credited when you present a current valid airport parking coupon or voucher entitling the bearer to discount airport parking privileges at Detroit Metro.

www.parkingaccess.com

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By: Greg Bessony

Greg Bessoni has been involved in internet airport parking for over 3 years. greg@parkingaccess.com

Educational Factory Tours For A Magical Family Vacation

When was the last time you saw the words "family fun", "educational", and "free" in the same sentence? You can find just that in Nottingham, PA, just outside Philadelphia, PA or Balitmore, MD. Whether you live near those areas and are looking for a family day trip, or want to have a unique experience while on vacation, this factory tour is a must.

When you go to visit the Herr's Snack Food Factory, you will get to experience a fun-filled (for the whole family) morning or afternoon of educational information, with a little bit of high tech thrown in... all for free. Before the tour begins you receive the behind-the-scenes history and background of Herr's. You will also be introduced to your "special and unique tour guides", who will be with you for your entire visit.

The tour is a fascinating and exciting experience for kids and adults alike. With your personal guides and the accompanying videos, this also makes it ideal for large groups.

In this state-of-the-art plant, you'll get the chance to watch as machines and ovens make thousands of snack foods, including their famous potato chips, pretzels, corn chips, cheese curls, popcorn, and much, much more. The tour starts with an award winning video in which the Herr's mascot, Chipper the Chipmunk takes you on a tour.

Next stop is the real factory, where you'll be able to actually see how snacks are made. Watch pretzel twists getting twisted and then baked in humongous ovens. You will learn how chips are made from start to finish. Get ready to be amazed as you watch the entire process. Beginning with the loading of the raw ingredients through slicing, cooking, seasoning and bagging, and how the chips end up in the stores. It's mesmerizing to watch the machines doing all the work, and to see how much work really goes into a potato chip, before it hits your tastebuds.

The best part about the entire tour is that you'll be able to taste potato chips hot and fresh off the conveyer belt. Keep in mind that you are experiencing the real deal here. This is the actual factory. You are seeing actual workers, do what they do best, making great tasting potato chips and other snacks perfectly. The tour will give you a front seat type of experience, which has been specially designed with methods and processes that's sure to impress kids and adults alike. You'll be able to impress your friends with trivia, like what the differences are between a "chip" potato and a regular potato. And how pretzels are "twisted."

When you plan your day, go in the morning and plan to stay for lunch. The menu is varied with enough choices to suit everyone's tastes, and the food is good. From small to big groups, the lunchroom is roomy enough to accommodate your needs. Call for tour schedule: (800) 284-7488 Age Limits: None. Cost: Free. Reservations are strongly suggested, but walk-ins will be accommodated if space permits.

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By: Elizabet Ann Wares

Elizabeth Ann Wares is an avid traveler and shares travel and vacation tips. She is the webmaster of Airfare X, a leading resource for discount airfare: http://www.airfarex.com

elizabeth@airfarex.com

Photography Tips While Traveling

Whether you’re embarking on a family vacation or your family reunion, it’s going to be a special time. When we think of trips we’ve taken, we tend to remember them best with photographs. Here’s some ideas to enhance your vacation as well as your memories of them.

Location Preparation

1. Since you know where you’re going (that's a minimum requirement), doesn’t it make sense to check out the location before you get there? Create a list of attractions, accommodations, special points of interest, amusement areas, shopping, etc. A good source to help you do this is: the Places and Travel section of msn.com ( http://groups.msn.com/Browse?CatId=179)

2. Figure out the photo opportunities for each appropriate venue. Anyone can take a “that’s nice” picture of the kids at an amusement park. Wouldn’t you rather capture a “WOW” photo that could be hung over the mantle?

3. Depending on the location you’re traveling to, you can see what books are written about them that highlight the best photo opportunities for the entire area

4. If you’re cyber-savvy, start at www.google.com and search using different combinations of: your destination, best photography locations, for images of the location, scenic spots, etc. The options are endless.

5. If you’re off to a non-big city area, scout out the national parks in the area. The great thing about national parks is that the scenery is usually so breathtaking, that a so-so shot looks outstanding, just because of the subject. Once in www.nps.gov, do a search on photos and you will be presented with terrific shots of all the parks.

Photography Preparation

OK, you’re either traveling through or you’re at a wonderful location full of photo opportunities. You began this leg of your trip at the crack of dawn and as you’re pulling into the most scenic overlook for 400 miles, the sun is just starting to crack the horizon.

You instinctively pull the car over, grab your camera and your tripod, and look for the best spot to set up. Just one tiny little problem… YOU FORGOT YOUR TRIPOD! Rather than smack yourself on the forehead then, why not plan these things now, before you leave?

Your list should include AT LEAST the following consideration…

1. Do I need to repeat – BRING YOUR TRIPOD? It doesn’t take up much room, and as explained at www.best-family-photography-tips.com/tripod-photography.html, tripods allow you to capture entirely new categories of photographs that won’t be possible without one

2.Memory. Of course, bring all the memory you have, but also pack your portable storage device

3. If your camera has a hot shoe, bring your external flash, and any additional equipment that can be used to help with bounce flash

4. Remember your external shutter release cable for those long exposures. How else are you going to get that “angel-hair” look of the waterfalls?

5. Don’t forget the basics like: batteries, battery charger, camera bag, and additional lenses and filters (if applicable on your camera)

6. And just in case you need it, bring the manuals for your equipment.

Finally, don’t get so wrapped up in taking perfect shots that you don’t enjoy the trip. Remember to use the tripod so that you'll be in at least some of the photos.

Article courtesy of www.best-family-photography-tips.com, where you can see some sample pictures including more photography tips. Copyright 2005 Robert Bezman. All rights reserved.

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By: Robert Bezman

Robert Bezman is a professional photographer and owner of Custom Photographic Expressions.
robert@best-family-photography-tips.com

Castle on the Hill

When you think of castles, such places as Windsor, Sterling, and London come to mind. One might not expect that San Francisco, California should be added to this list. Julius castle on beautiful Telegraph Hill is a little known secret; a treasure hidden away at the end of a secluded San Franciscan lane.

This castle was never used to defend a city. No King or Queen ever ruled from a throne here. However, a feast fit for royalty is prepared every night within this modern fortress. Looking out on the water from the Golden Gate to the Bay Bridge and beyond, Julius Castle provides one of the most amazing views in the city. If the food were not quite so delicious you could easily find yourself lost in a trance staring out at the rolling hills, slow moving ferries, and untouched islands.

Built to resemble a castle using Redwood trees, and maples from the Pan Pacific Expedition, Julius Castle dates back to the 1920’s. An Italian immigrant Julius Roz envisioned a “castle on the hill”, and his vision became reality when the doors opened in 1922. Patrons of the castle have watched the scenery outside its windows slowly change since then as the Bay Bridge began construction in 1933, and Treasure Island was literally built from the earth at the bottom of the bay for the 1939 World’s Fair.

In 1947 the film “Dark Passage” displayed the castle’s neighborhood for the world to see as Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall sought to help the falsely accused character Vincent Parry evade police, former friends, and small time crooks. The movie’s setting takes place only feet from where the castle stands and to this day a cut-out of Bogart watches diners as they approach the entrance.

If you find that you have enjoyed too much of the fine food and wine within the castle you may seek some after dinner activity by either venturing further up Telegraph Hill to Coit Tower, or down the hill via the Filbert Stairs. Located at the very peak of the hill Coit Tower overlooks the city both from its base, and even more spectacularly from the tip of its tower, another 63 meters high. The tower, which was built in 1933 with funds donated by Little Hitchcook Coit, offers more than just the scenic views outside. Painted murals adorn the interior of the structure depicting scenes from California during the great depression and other historic periods.

If climbing the hills of San Francisco has quickly lost its charm then traveling in the opposite direction down the Filbert Stairs may be a good choice. These stairs wind down to Sansome Street, right off of the famous Embarcadero through pristinely kept gardens and beautiful homes. As you marvel at the views on your 377 step journey down the hill make sure and appreciate that you are taking the only means of arriving at the 19th century cottages you pass, as there is no road access! Once you reach the bottom you are a short walk to the San Francisco ferry building, or Fisherman’s Wharf.

As you go off to explore these other exciting attractions, try not to forget that you just dined at a world class castle, right in the middle of modern California.

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By: Nate Soule - a travel enthusiast and helps maintain the travel website AcrossDistance.com (http://www.acrossdistance.com).

Personal Protection When Traveling - It's a Must!

One Christmas when I was in high school, I received what I thought at the time was an odd gift – a personal safety alarm. I thanked my parents, but wondered why they thought I needed personal protection. As it turns out I never used the alarm but I sure FELT safer when I was walking home in the dark.

To protect your person when traveling, there are a variety personal safety options. Actual weapons of course, which I don’t recommend - studies have proven you’re more likely to get hurt carrying your own weapon. Pepper spray or mace, which you would spray in an attacker’s face, or a personal alarm which usually includes a pull string or a button to push and makes a very loud and distinct noise.

If you are going to purchase a personal safety product for your travels, here are a few things to think about. Check if personal defense products like pepper spray and mace are illegal where you’re visiting. Make sure that you have extra batteries for your personal alarm and check them every so often. The last thing you need is to activate the personal alarm and nothing happens.

Another thing to consider if you’re going to carry mace or pepper spray as personal safety product – they inflict real pain. So protect yourself with a personal defense product but make sure it’s for a GOOD reason.

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By: Tara Pearce

support@a1-travel-accessories.com

Carry On Luggage Size - Know The Rules!

You’re going on a trip, and need luggage. Did you consider your carry on luggage size? It’s important to know what’s allowed and what isn’t. Obviously verify with your airline, but I’ll give you some generally accepted carry on luggage allowances to help you shop.

As I stated in my carry on luggage article, weight is a factor. Some airlines have no restrictions when it comes to carry on luggage weight. Others are as low as 11 pounds, some as high as 40 pounds.

Most airlines will allow one piece of carry on luggage and one personal item. They consider a personal item as carry on. The weight is the total of the two. Personal items include a purse, laptop bag, reading material or another small (no bigger than 36”) carry on bag. Keep those carryon luggage limits in mind when packing!

The standard carry on luggage rules are 22” X 14” X 9” for a total of 45”. Again, these carry on luggage dimensions vary both by airline and shape of the bag. Even if your carry on luggage doesn’t exceed the allowed dimensions, the airline can make you prove that the bag will fit by putting it in a box, and if it won’t fit, your luggage will be checked.

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By: Tara Pearce

support@a1-travel-accessories.com

Tara Pearce is the publisher and webmaster of

http://www.a1-travel-accessories.com
Visit us for great information on all manner of travel tips and accessories resources.

Finding Travel Deals

If your vacation time is coming up and you are planning on making a trip, then you will need to make some plans. Perhaps you are going to visit family? Or, maybe you plan to take your family to see an attraction somewhere? Maybe you are going to visit another country? Regardless of where you plan to go, you can find great deals on getting there, staying there, and even enjoying your time at the location.

Often times we want to take our children to see the things we saw when we were younger. It would be nice to see some new destinations as well. Either way, we want to do a lot but don't always have the funds. So, we are always in search for a deal. There are many out there to be had. Here are some quick ideas.

Saving on airfare is all about shopping around. Compare the different offers each company has. Can you fly in mid week and avoid weekend charges and busy times? Flying at night or at odd times can also increase your changes of getting a deal.

Once you get to your destination, you'll need a place to stay and a car to drive. The best way to get deals on these is to plan ahead. Making reservations ahead of time can be the best way to lower your cost. Cutting out extra charges on things you don't need, or won't use, also helps. No need for that car to come with a DVD player if you only plan to drive short distances. Along the same lines, you probably won't have time to watch all those movies on cable either. Eliminating these extras can lead to extra cash in your pocket.

Saving money on travel doesn't need to stop there. You can save money on travel in just about every aspect by planning and research. Take the time to compare different companies, then choose the best option for you. Also, take a box of cereal and pick up a gallon of milk instead of spending a ton on breakfast. Grab a local newspaper to see if there are deals in there for area restaurants. The local family diner may have some great food at reasonable prices but is overlooked because of all those glaring signs in tourist's face.

Being able to find a deal on travel is a great advantage. Saving some extra cash can truly make your vacation more worthwhile. Since so many people just don't get enough vacation time, getting the most out of what they do get is key. So, take some time and find the best travel deals out there for yourself!

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By: Sandy Baker

sbaker@e-travelpromos.com

Car Rentals

Renting a car is a tough thing. Well, it can be. But, it doesn't have to be. To find a great deal, or even just a reliable car, you will want to do a little research. Save some extra cash in that pocket!

We used to believe it was simple to rent a car. All you had to do was get off your plane and head to the lonely car rental place right next door. Not so any more. There is competition everywhere. This is good news to you, though. Competition, even with car rentals, means that you will pay off with deals in the long run.

To make this happen, you may have to do your homework. Booking a car rental ahead of time is very wise. In fact, you should not wait until the last minute. Anyone looking for a car rental immediately is more likely to pay higher price then someone who booked their rental a month or even a week in advance. Take the time to investigate the different car rental companies. Compare what they offer and their prices. Never take the first offer either. Get your facts and quotes from several companies first.

You can find car rentals online as well as in your phone book. There is no shortage of companies to talk to. Car rental companies have a lot to offer as well. Consider what you will use the car rental for before you decide on one. Do you really need that car with all the added amenities? Or, do you really just need something to get you back and forth? Making wise decisions regarding your choice in car rentals can save you a nice bit of cash.

Before you rent your next car, be sure to visit http://www.e-travelpromos.com first!

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By: Sandy Baker

sbaker@e-travelpromos.com

Low Airfares

Do you have a trip in mind? Looking for low airfares to get you there? All is not lost. You can find a great deal on airfare if you take the time to look for it. Low airfares are actually quite common right now, due to the sluggish travel industry.

The more open minded you are about your trip, the better your chances are of finding low airfare. Begin your search by deciding what is the most important thing for you. Is it getting there quickly and in one shot? Is there a specific date you must travel? Being open about these things can provide for some great opportunity.

For instance, if you can be more flexible in the date you arrive and return from your destination, perhaps you can find a better rate by flying during the week? Flying out on a Friday is often much more expensive then flying during the week. Also, taking a flight that has a lay over may seem like a big hassle, but it may save you some big bucks.

Of course, you should take the time to compare and contrast what the airlines have to offer. Often times, you can do this right online. There are also travel sites that claim to help you with your travel plans. But, don't just use them. Find the prices for yourself through the airlines as well. Why do this? Well, for one they may get you a good deal, but will their extra fees eat away at this saved money?

The best advice that can be given is to do your research. Find out your options. Most importantly, be as flexible and open as you can. Also, don't forget to ask for a discount. Many times, airlines are not going to give you the lowest airfare unless you ask. Of course, this may take you some extra time, but it may pay off with allowing you to have a little extra cash in your pocket come time for your vacation. That makes it worth it!

So before you book your next airfare, make sure you check out http://www.e-travelpromos.com first!

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By: Sandy Baker

sbaker@e-travelpromos.com

Historical Overview for Travelers to Armenia

One of the world's oldest civilizations, Armenia once included Mount Ararat, which biblical tradition identifies as the mountain that Noah's ark rested on after the flood. It was the first country in the world to officially embrace Christianity as its religion (c. A.D. 300).

In the 6th century B.C., Armenians settled in the kingdom of Urartu (the Assyrian name for Ararat), which was in decline. Under Tigrane the Great (fl. 95–55 B.C.) the Armenian empire reached its height and became one of the most powerful in Asia, stretching from the Caspian to the Mediterranean Seas. Throughout most of its long history, however, Armenia has been invaded by a succession of empires. Under constant threat of domination by foreign forces, Armenians became both cosmopolitan as well as fierce protectors of their culture and tradition.

Over the centuries Armenia was conquered by Greeks, Romans, Persians, Byzantines, Mongols, Arabs, Ottoman Turks, and Russians. From the 16th century through World War I major portions of Armenia were controlled by their most brutal invader, the Ottoman Turks, under whom the Armenians experienced discrimination, religious persecution, heavy taxation, and armed attacks. In response to Armenian nationalist stirrings, the Turks massacred thousands of Armenians in 1894 and 1896. The most horrific massacre took place in April 1915 during World War I, when the Turks ordered the deportation of the Armenian population to the deserts of Syria and Mesopotamia. According to the majority of historians, between 600,000 and 1.5 million Armenians were murdered or died of starvation. The Armenian massacre is considered the first genocide in the 20th century. Turkey denies that a genocide took place, and claims that a much smaller number died in a civil war.

After the Turkish defeat in World War I, the independent Republic of Armenia was established on May 28, 1918, but survived only until Nov. 29, 1920, when it was annexed by the Soviet Army. On March 12, 1922, the Soviets joined Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan to form the Transcaucasian Soviet Socialist Republic, which became part of the USSR. In 1936, after a reorganization, Armenia became a separate constituent republic of the USSR. Since 1988, Armenia has been involved in a territorial dispute with Azerbaijan over the enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh, to which both lay claim. Also in 1988, a devastating earthquake killed thousands and wreaked economic havoc.

Armenia declared its independence from the collapsing Soviet Union on Sept. 23, 1991. In 1992–1994, Armenia successfully fought Azerbaijan for control of Nagorno-Karabakh. The majority of the enclave are Armenian Christians who want to secede from Azerbaijan and either become part of Armenia or gain full independence. Enormous casualties were involved.

An Armenian diaspora has existed throughout the nation's history, and Armenian emigration has been particularly heavy since independence from the Soviet Union. An estimated 60% of the total 8 million Armenians worldwide live outside the country, with 1 million each in the U.S. and Russia. Other significant Armenian communities are located in Georgia, France, Iran, Lebanon, Syria, Argentina, and Canada.

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By: Armine Hareyan

Armenia: Great Destination for travelers

Armenia prides itself on being the first nation to formally adopt Christianity (early 4th century). Despite periods of autonomy, over the centuries Armenia came under the sway of various empires including the Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Persian, and Ottoman. It was incorporated into Russia in 1828 and the USSR in 1920.

Armenian leaders remain preoccupied by the long conflict with Muslim Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh, a primarily Armenian-populated region, assigned to Soviet Azerbaijan in the 1920s by Moscow. Armenia and Azerbaijan began fighting over the area in 1988; the struggle escalated after both countries attained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

By May 1994, when a cease-fire took hold, Armenian forces held not only Nagorno-Karabakh but also a significant portion of Azerbaijan proper. The economies of both sides have been hurt by their inability to make substantial progress toward a peaceful resolution. Turkey imposed an economic blockade on Armenia and closed the common border because of the Armenian occupation of Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding areas.

Geography

Armenia is located in the southern Caucasus and is the smallest of the former Soviet republics. It is bounded by Georgia on the north, Azerbaijan on the east, Iran on the south, and Turkey on the west. Contemporary Armenia is a fraction of the size of ancient Armenia. A land of rugged mountains and extinct volcanoes, its highest point is Mount Aragats, 13,435 ft (4,095 m).

Government: Republic

President: Robert Kocharian (1998)

Prime Minister: Andranik Markarian (2000)

Area: 11,506 sq mi (29,800 sq km)

Population (2004 est.): 2,991,360 (growth rate: –0.3%); (Armenian, 93%; others, Kurds, Ukrainians, and Russians); birth rate: 11.4/1000; infant mortality rate: 24.2/1000; life expectancy: 71.2; density per sq mi: 260

Capital and largest city: Yerevan, 1,462,700 (metro. area), 1,267,600 (city proper)

Other large cities: Vanadzor, 147,400; Gyumri (Leninakan), 125,300; Abovian, 59,300

Monetary unit: Dram

Language: Armenian 96%, Russian 2%, other 2%

Ethnicity/race: Armenian 93%, Russian 2%, Azeri 1%, other (mostly Yezidi Kurds) 4% (2002).

Note: as of the end of 1993, virtually all Azeris had emigrated from Armenia

Religion: Armenian Apostolic 94%, other Christian 4%, Yezidi 2%

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By: Armine Hareyan

Hotels

Do you have your trip planned? Got the tickets and everything? Did you remember to reserve a hotel room? Not to worry if you haven't. Its quite a simple task especially in the Internet world. Here are some quick tips for you to consider.

First of all, if you want to find a great deal on a hotel, you should think about being as flexible as you can be. If you stay at certain times of the week, month, or even year you can possibly get a better deal. If you can't be that flexible, how about thinking about staying a little farther from your destination. Now, this only works if you are going someplace where there are many people wanting to stay as close as possible. Instead of staying really close, stay a few miles out. This can save you a bunch of cash. You may need to drive a little farther, but a few cents in gas compared to the extra in the hotel is nothing.

Finding a hotel is as simple as going online. You can often find just what you are looking for just by searching for your desitnation. But, never settle on the first place you find. Compare several different chains and even think about the mom and pop places.

While your checking out what's available in the area you are traveling to, also think about the amenities they offer. Its nice to stay at a hotel that has a swimming pool, but if you don't have time to use it, what's the point? Same goes for other services. Think about them carefully as you don't want to pay more for something you will not use.

Hotels are everywhere. They are all competing for your dollar and by shopping around you are likely to find just the right one for you. Being as flexible as you can will also improve your chances of getting a great deal. Take the time to research. In the end, it will pay off.

Visit http://www.e-travelpromos.com to make your travel arrangements and take a cruise of a lifetime.

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By: Sandy Baker
sbaker@e-travelpromos.com

Sandy Baker is staff article writer at http://www.e-travelpromos.com.

New Zealand Travel - Northland

The paradise of Northland begins at Cape Reinga, extends down 90 mile beach, to the beaches of Whangarei and forests and bush walks of the entire region.

Much of Northland's extensive coastline remains pristine - an aquatic playground for adventure activities and escapist relaxation. Whangarei and Opua are havens for international and local yachts; Tutukaka and Russell are game fishing hot spots; the beaches of Doubtless Bay and 90 mile beach are endlessly beautiful.

Throughout the region you’ll also enjoy the shopping, dining and entertainment possibilities that stem from the distinctive local culture, which embraces art, creativity, organic farming and alternative thinking.
It is believed that the first Polynesians arrived in Northland in the 11th century. Today Waitangi is the centre of Maori culture in the region, where approximately 30 percent of the population are Maori. European settlement began in the 1840s.

A Nation is born

History has always been made in Northland. The Hokianga Harbour was the first Polynesian landing place, Russell was New Zealand’s first capital and the Treaty of Waitangi was signed in the Bay of Islands.

The largest island in the Bay of Islands, Urupukapuka is a place to explore archaeological sites.

Beaches and islands

The sea plays a large part in the lives of most Northlanders, and with good reason. Dive down to a shipwreck, swim with the dolphins, bodysurf in the waves or just relax on the sand.

Things to do

* The Albertland Museum in Wellsford (turn right off SH.1 before the Caltex if heading south) contains many artifacts of the past 120 years and is well worth a stop.

* Follow the Twin Coast Discovery Highway and explore some of the linked tourist drives.

* Regular domestic air services connect to Northland’s three airports - Whangarei, Kerikeri and Kaitaia.

* To make the most of the bays and beaches, explore Northland by rental car or campervan.

* The Stone Store in Russell is one of Northland's oldest free standing buildings.

* For a scenic trip that you don't have to drive a car on, catch a coach from Auckland. Most leave from the Sky City terminal, with a ticket office at the terminal.

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By: Ace Shattock
admin@nzboards.com

Ace Shattock runs www.nzboards.com - a free online kiwi community.

Are You Interested In Cruises And Crusing?

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

Thank you Douglas for accepting our invitation to be interviewed.

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

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

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

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

Norm: What makes cruises so appealing to honeymooners?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Norm: What type of clothing should I bring aboard?

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

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

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

Norm: Can I make telephone calls from the cruise ship?

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

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

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

Norm: What happens if someone has special dietary requests?

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

Norm: How do you make payments on board?

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

Norm: Should you tip while on aboard the ship?

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks Douglas for your time.

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By Norm Goldman

Norm Goldman is editor of sketchandtravel.com and bookpleasures.com. Norm and his artist wife Lily meld art and words in order to create an unusual travel story, which generates interest, particularly because of the fact that each painting appears to have been ‘custom-made’ for the story-original story and original art. Combining the watercolors with travel writing provides a softer, more romantic look at the places we visit. Their main focus is on romantic and wedding destinations. As they specialize in web-based content, their articles are featured on their own site, www.sketchandtravel.com, where you can find out more about them.

Honeymoon Cruise – A Cruise To Paradise

A Honeymoon Cruise as the name suggests offers a gateway to paradise for honeymooners away from the pressures of daily life and enjoy the bliss of togetherness. This provides an opportunity for you to start your married life in a state of togetherness by exploring the unknown and enjoying nature and life.

The Honeymoon cruise offers the comforts of a five star luxury and provides a period of unending excitement, adventure, the opportunity to get to know each other and enjoying life as nature had wanted it to be.

This is an ideal way to start a life of togetherness for fulfillment of one’s desires and daresay this is a golden getaway. The excitement of togetherness under the moonlit sky with the stars twinkling and the rustle of the water and the gentle breeze flowing from the sea is an experience, which will be etched in your memory for life.

The honeymoon cruise package usually includes:

1. Champagne and Strawberries in the Stateroom on embarkment

2. Canapés delivered to your cabin on the evening of your choice.

3. A special Honeymooner’s party

4. Honeymoon Photographs.

5. Champagne breakfast in bed

The following Honeymoon cruises satisfy the forever romantics and provide luxury unheard of:-

1. A Silver Sea Cruise is a love nest and provides Bed-breakfast, pre-dinner cocktails, a private verandah with canapés, complimentary Champagne and wine, a mini-bar stocked with the choicest of drinks to enhance your mood, delicious cuisine are the attractions of this Honeymoon Cruise.

2. Crystal Cruises are midsize luxury liners which provides all the above . Penthouses with personal butlers are also available at a nominal extra cost at this Honeymoon Cruise.

3. Wind Star Cruises offers everything you would have dreamt. This Honeymoon Cruise offers boats with which you sail away from ports at sunset and feel the exhilaration of cruising under white billowing sails. The spirited can go for scuba diving, kayaking, Windsailing, snorkeling etc.

4. Norwegian Cruise Line - The Norwegian Star is a specialty for romantic couples. Resort casual dining offers an alternative following a formal wedding at this Honeymoon Cruise. The destination is Hawaii (world’s most romantic destination) departing every Sunday and has a Wedding Chapel for intimate ceremonies and vow renewals.

The destination shall be of your choice depending upon your taste – be it the romantic hills, historical monuments, beaches, tropical rain forests etc. All the cruise ships offering a Honeymoon Cruise have exquisitely done suites, gyms, swimming pools, beauty parlors and casinos to pamper the cruiser and energize the mind, body and spirit.

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By: Colin Hartness
Looking for information about cruises?

Go to: http://www.whatcruises.com

Reducing the Risk of "Economy Class Syndrome"

With summer vacation season just around the corner, many long-distance air travelers will face an increased risk of developing DVT, sometimes called "economy-class syndrome." DVT, or deep-vein thrombosis, is a circulatory condition in which blood clots form deep in the legs, often after lengthy periods of immobilization.

Victor Tapson, M.D., associate professor in the division of pulmonary and critical care medicine at Duke University Medical Center, says these clots in the legs can lead to serious trouble elsewhere in the body.

"Sometimes these blood clots can break off and go to the lung, causing what's known as pulmonary embolism," says Tapson. In some circumstances, this may result in serious illness or even death. Deep-vein thrombosis may also contribute to other serious medical problems such as heart attack and stroke.

"The death rate from pulmonary embolism is probably in the range of 100,000 to 200,000 per year in the U.S," he adds.

Tapson recommends that anyone on a long flight should follow some travel tips to help prevent problems from DVT.

"Traveling a lot, I realize that if you're in economy class for trips longer than five hours, the risk is probably there," he says. "The airlines nowadays are advertising on transatlantic flights, for example, that patients flex their legs, move around at least hourly, stand up when possible and not just sit in the same place."

Other recommendations include: drinking adequate fluids, at least one liter per five hours of flight time; avoiding alcohol; wearing loose-fitting clothing; and avoiding crossing your legs or remaining in a prolonged uncomfortable position while seated.

"Millions of people travel," he says, "and not everybody gets blood clots. It may be that patients who get blood clots also have other risk factors."

Among the common risk factors for DVT are being overweight or obese, having high blood pressure, being pregnant, taking estrogen replacement therapy or having been immobilized for a prolonged period within 30 days of flying, for example after surgery.

Tapson says if a physician feels a patient is at particularly high risk, administration of preventive therapy, such as a shot of low molecular weight heparin, may be appropriate before the flight, and prior to return.

He also believes more attention should be given to DVT preventive care, as well as increased DVT screening in hospitals. "Any patient who's admitted to the hospital ought to be at least considered for preventive therapy with anticoagulants such as heparin, low molecular weight heparin or mechanical devices. Perhaps everyone coming in doesn't need prevention, but everyone ought to be considered."

The source of this news article is http://www.dukehealth.org

Alternative Holidays – Exchange Conversation For Accommodation In Spain’s Englishtown Project

Madrid, Spain -- For the last three years, over 3,000 people have participated in the unique English language immersion program known as Englishtown. Two venues, a 16th century abandoned village and a plush country-style hotel, play host to a non-stop eight-day intensive conversation program. English native speakers from all over the world come as volunteers to learn about Spaniards and their culture in return for their board and lodging while the Spaniards seek to improve their fluency in the quickest, most intensive manner possible on earth. The participants, both English-speakers and Spaniards, exchange culture, conversation, knowledge and friendship.

Englishtown was the brainchild of Richard Vaughan, a business student from Texas who came to Spain to teach English in the 70’s. “After a quarter-century of language training and experience, I realized no matter how many times a person is drilled on irregular verbs, the only way to truly understand a language is to actively practice it,” says Richard.

This led to the creation of Englishtown – eight-day immersion programs which include a cast of 20 Spaniards, 20 English-speakers from all over the world, a Master of Ceremonies to provide entertainment and a Program Director to enforce the only rule: No Spanish Allowed. All this for 15 hours a day, eight days and no stopping except for your daily siesta. Throw in a mix of activities such as conversations, scenic walks, games, meals and Spanish music and dancing, and somewhere in between the Spaniards find themselves blabbing away in English without having to stop, think and translate.

The idea was so innovative that it won the “Best Awards 2003” prize in Spain and has been featured on dozens of message boards that buzz about a deal almost “too good to be true”, travel guides, major publications and TV stations – CNN, Irish Times and Chicago Tribune to name a few. The lure is easy – English-speakers chat, play, walk, dine and wine with Spaniards with the beautiful backdrop of the Spanish countryside while Vaughan picks up the tab. Multinational clients such as Microsoft, Vodafone, Deloitte and Accenture send scores of executives to Englishtown finding it to be the ideal solution to their problem – a rapid, intense way to get their top directors speaking English.

Over the years, Englishtown has attracted volunteers from all walks of life: concert pianists, writers, CEO’s, social workers, backpackers, geologists, wandering musicians and students from a wide range of ages from 18 to 80 that coin it as having been one of the best, most enriching experiences of their lives.

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By: Nicole Escario

For more information visit www.vaughanvillage.com.

River Cruises Can Be Such A Rich Experience

Exploring Europe can be such a unique experience with a River Cruise. You just unpack once on this floating hotel and there you go cruising with river cruises over magnificent castles, significant towns and cities, appealing villages and lavish vineyards. It has become increasingly popular nowadays to sail through the grand rivers of Europe especially with the wide selection of vessels available. All the vessels are beautifully furnished, displaying attractive art objects with public areas reflecting the atmosphere around each region you cruise. It is the most pleasurable experience on river vessels as all offer personal service with the help of a smiling bilingual staff. You are provided with a single seating superb dining arrangement and well-accommodated cabins, which are comfortable and airy.

The most popular destinations in Europe, Russia or China can be explored intimately, closely and deeply with the river cruises. It is unlike a bus ride where you are still spending time on the bus than exploring and discovering destinations. River cruises provide splendid service and superb food. Every travel programs is well formulated and designed and you visit a port a day, at least. Hence, you get an opportunity to explore small villages in remote regions minutely, which might not have been otherwise possible with an ocean cruise. As you cruise along, you admire the beautiful scenery around as well as enjoy the local nightlife at the ports.

Have you ever thought of rediscovering America in an easy and relaxed fashion? Well River Cruises are there for you.

For the early settlers of America, rivers were natural highways, today the same rivers signify the old and the new, and as you cruise along them, you discover American history as it unfolds to you slowly and steadily. It is becoming extremely popular nowadays to experience America’s great waterways on Victorian Style steam driven paddle wheelers on 3-to twelve-night trips. There are stunning antiques displayed in the gallery and there is a two-storey dining room with huge windows for a fantastic view of the scenery. The river steamboats are designed in 19th century format with stylish furnishings- an impressive mirrored and brass staircase and a lounge with a two-storied glass rear wall for a glimpse of the giant paddlewheel. There are other amenities available like movie theaters, musical shows and bathing pools.

River cruises are well designed cruises – you are neither seasick nor loose sight of the land as in blue water cruises and neither do you pack, unpack or hip-hop hotels like in a car or motor coach tour. The River Explorer sails over the rivers Missouri, Mississippi and Ohio – to and fro on four to ten days trips throughout the year. Vacationers can sprawl on the Sky Deck, read, play games or watch videos. The dining is casual, informal having no assigned seating. You can meander into the pilothouse and catch a glimpse of the real-time radar and navigational charts, if interested. At various ports storytellers, bluegrass and blues bands, dancers and Cajuns step aboard to entertain the guests.

You learn about America’s heritage-it’s a rich experience to understand the development of commerce and industry in America or why river towns Tenn. and Clarksville were founded. Imagine seeing the colors along the riverbanks or the rising sun or the setting sun-are truly natural wonders. You might like to undertake shore excursions to New Orleans French Quarter or the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tenn. It is such a wonderful idea to have some river cruises to observe themes like 1950’s music, big bands, old-fashioned holidays, or the fall foliage along the Ohio River.

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By. Colin Hartness

Thailand

Pattaya Thailand travel information and tips.

Accommodations:

Pattaya has many types of accommodations available at many different prices. Hotels, condos, guest houses and rental homes are available by the day, the week, the month or the year.

Hotels / Guest Houses:

The best way to find clean cheap hotels in Pattaya is to stay of the beaten path. Anything on Beach road will be both expensive and dirty, the same goes for 2nd road. Amazingly enough, in Pattaya, a more expensive hotel doesn't necessarily guarantee you a higher quality room. The right hotels have nice rooms for the same price. You can expect to pay about 500 baht per night for a nice room. Hot water, daily change of sheets, safe, and 24 hours security are included. The deposit is usually about 1000 baht. Cheaper rooms can be had for 250 baht with no air conditioning, I would not recommend these hotels unless you are a budget traveler, they are usually decrepit with no windows.

If money isn't a big issue you can also stay in posh western hotels They will cost you over 1000 baht per night but will be of world class standard.

Condos:

Condos are basically studio apartments. They are furnished and cost on average about 12 000-16 000 baht per month. Electricity and water are not included but you can expect to pay an extra 1000 - 2000 baht per month extra. Condos are fully furnished and include cable TV.

Cell phones:

If you plan to stay here for more than 2 weeks, getting a cell phone is recommended (unless you are traveling with your family), you will meet many new friends in Pattaya and cell phones can help you get in touch with them. A used cell phone will cost you about 1000 baht, a good one as high as 15 000 baht. In Thailand electronics carry the same price tag as in the West since the products are imported from Japan.

Motorcycle rentals:

Pattaya has numerous motorcycle rental outfits. You can rent anything from a 125 cc moped to a 1300 cc sport bike. The cost is 150 baht per day for the 125 and 500-1000 baht per day for the big sport bikes. Insurance is sometimes included but not always...you have to ask individual shops about it. You don't need an international driver's license although it is recommended.

Food:

Thai food is very cheap but also very spicy although not all of it. Price varies from 10 - 50 baht with an average of 20 baht a meal. The best way to order is to go to a restaurant that has pictures on the menu. Western fair meals will run you about 150 baht on average, there are plenty of them in Pattaya. Tap water is unsafe to drink but bottled water can be bought at only 5 baht a bottle.

Health:

No vaccination is required but Hepatitis A shots are recommended since the sanitation in small establishments isn't always the best. You should purchase some extra insurance just in case something happens, although a hospital visit is only 30 baht for Thai people, it could be very expensive for foreigners.

Weather:

Perfect, perfect and perfect. Pretty much always sunny, when it does rain it's only for about an hour or so. You won't need to bring your umbrella! The temperature varies from about 25-25 degrees on average. You never get cold in Pattaya.

Things to do:

High speed go Karts 500 baht / 10 minutes

Jet skiing 600 baht / 30 minutes

Tiger Zoo 400 baht

Chinese museum 70 baht

Pattaya Park waterslides 100 baht

Movies 100 baht

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Bruno Vincent

info@novatranz.com

A November Weekend to Remember-Day 3

Day 3

Morning came and it was time to go home. We ate a leisurely breakfast and packed everything up after that. A storm was threatening to blow but still we are headstrong in our decision to go home and to resume our much loved office work. Nah…not really, we were so afraid to be stranded at the island with having consumed all our supplies and with very little money left. So we stubbornly made arrangements to go home despite the weather.

We contacted a local boat man and he informed us that the pump boat could not get us to Maya as the coastguard would not permit pump boat travels due to the approaching storm. They said that they could only take us to Talisay instead, a place a bit far from Maya but we could also get a bus from there towards Cebu City. So we agreed, we trotted our belongings carried our backpacks and proceeded to what I may call the bumpiest and scariest boat ride I’ve ever been to. The waves were hungrily lapping at us, while the wind whipped incredulously. We sure were glad to have finally reached Talisay alive after an hour or more. Luckily none of us were with motion sickness as it would have completed the excitement of that boat ride. Upon reaching Talisay, we then learned that episode four hit.

Episode 4: Never Trust Anyone. We were tricked again. We found out that it was just permissible to travel from Malapascua to Maya but the boatmen who proposed the Talisay route just needed passengers in going to Talisay where a foreigner couple awaits their service. That was really underhanded but we were just so grateful to finally have gotten over the big waves so it was a little okay even if a boat ride from Malapascua to Talisay took longer than a boat ride from Malapascua to Maya.

After Talisay, we boarded the bus towards our normal life again.

That 3-day weekend adventure and episodes in Malapascua sure did heal our boredom of the everyday office routine and renewed our eagerness towards life. It is so amazing how a single island trip could bond people like all seven of us did and could be as fun packed as it was. It is such a wonder how a 3-day relaxation renew your positivism towards everything and happily say that when things get too rough or too boring, all it takes is just a hop to the bus and a 45-minute boat ride to feel so alive, so young and so renewed.

Note: The author decided to change the names of the persons in this article to protect their interests. But if you would want to reveal their real names, you can simply change a few consonants and vowels to make them sound more civilized.

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By: Gina Mary Capatar

Gina Marie Capatar is the head writer of http://www.isnare.com/ and she also does freelance content writing jobs for Isnare Outsourcing Services. You may contact her at gina@isnare.com

A November Weekend to Remember-Day 2

Day 2

The second day was another fun filled lazy day; we woke up very late in the morning, not caring what time it was and ate breakfast which the owner of the cottage prepared for us. This is when the second episode of our a-November-weekend-to-remember adventure began.

Episode 2: Island tour. A local named Jun-jun offered an island tour for 600 pesos that would last for 2 hours which we graciously declined for another offer of 500 pesos for an unlimited time presented by another local who happened to overhear the initial island tour offer. By then Windil who was scheduled to arrive came and together with the rest of the group planned for the afternoon ahead. We were really excited for the afternoon in front of us and we were so thrilled to explore the rest of the island and to go snorkeling above some known boat wrecks.

Come lunchtime, the food was superb as a freshly caught fish was sold to us and was natively yet deliciously cooked by none less than the owner of the cottage. After taking lunch and enjoying the afternoon siesta, 2 o’clock came and our scheduled island tour was about to begin. A big tube of Sun block was passed around, sunglasses were readied, hats and caps as well as goggles and snorkels were carried. We went to the shoreline eager to board the Yahoo, the boat we are to use for the tour and to spend the afternoon snorkeling and exploring, only to find out that the Yahoo is still happily anchored at the shores of Maya. Such a disappointment, but that could not succeed in washing away the excitement of the group; especially Cilishti’s who at that time was halfway to being very very drunk.

After deliberating what to do, we again proceeded to the floating bar, since it was not yet time for the Happy hour; we just sat there and expectantly waited for any signs of the boat. After being on such good terms with the local bartenders due to Cilishti’s unabashed friendliness, we learned from them that the local named Basik, whom we negotiated with, about our island tour, was a bit of a scatterbrain and we entrusted our plans for the afternoon in her hands. What a waste, indeed! Luckily someone in our group was persistent enough to negotiate with another boat owner for our intended island trip but their boats too were still in Maya so we waited and waited at the floating bar until it became so straining to the eye to squint for an incoming boat.

That was when we thought to forego that doomed island trip. We resumed our bar hangout and some swam while the others just sat down and killed the time with endless gazes towards the island and still reeling from the fact that our island trip was never going to come true after all the preparations and the excitement and the endless squirts of the sun block we applied.

Late afternoon came and we headed back to the cottage where some local masseuses have waited for an hour or so. By the way, I forgot to tell you that we have arranged with some locals for an afternoon massage of an hour per person to be done after the planned island trip, but the island trip was cancelled so we proceeded with the massage. That’s when the third episode struck.

Episode 3: Masseuses fight. We learned that while we were at the floating bar, the masseuses were having this great disagreement because we haggled for the price of the full body massage from 200 to a hundred and fifty and some of the masseuses agreed just so they could have clients. But, the other jealous ones were so furious and indignant and were planning to report us to some local authorities because of the lowered prices. That was when we concluded, that we sure could stir some excitement of an otherwise boring masseuse’s life.

Yet, Boy, was the massage heavenly, yes it was … It was every bit as relaxing as it should be. The massage certainly managed to knead our tensions away and ebbed all the frustrations from that cancelled boat trip.

After the massage, we were again psyched up for the evening. Eager to take away the thoughts the impeded island tour behind us, we ate our dinner and filled our minds with plans for the night ahead. That night we planned to go to Maldito’s a famed local bar which boasts a big platform of cushion with pillows where you can practically do whatever you want. A huge flat screen monitor is strategically placed in front of it. Lying back, you can either watch TV, watch the people playing billiards or look at the shore while lazily sipping your drink. We played billiards, laughed a lot, posed for pictures, ate pizza and ordered endless shots of tequila, rum coke and baileys and simply had a helluva good time with the cool breeze blowing and the intoxicating feeling of exciting contentment. By the way, did I mention that Cilishti was left behind because the combination of alcohol she earlier drank and the relaxing massage sure did put her to sleep? We regretted leaving her behind though as Maldito’s would sure have been triple the fun if Cilishti’s boisterous laugh filled it halls. Then again 2 or 3 hours, it was time to head back to the cottage again as the breeze was almost intolerably very cold even with all the alcohol and the euphoria.

On the way home, we met Cilishti at Sunsplash, a restaurant where she ate late night dinner. We joined her for a few moments and some stayed and the rest headed back to the cottage to prepare for the long night of being mosquito food again. Indeed the mosquitoes never ceased to disappoint us. They showed on time, just when we were about to doze off, the buzzing started as well as the constant slapping of skin and mosquito. But that night, Irik and Windil decided to fight against our dreaded bedmates, they bought a whole pack of mosquito killer and some repellant lotion. That was when we were able to finally sleep at peace.

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By: Gina Mary Capatar

Gina Marie Capatar is the head writer of http://www.isnare.com/ and she also does freelance content writing jobs for Isnare Outsourcing Services. You may contact her at gina@isnare.com

A November Weekend to Remember-Day 1

Prologue

Malapascua is an island part of Daan Bantayan, North of Cebu. For Cebuano’s Malapascua is not an alien destination as it is very known to boast a next-to-Boracay Paradise without being overrated and as tourist infested as Boracay is. Going to Malapascua is a 5-hour bus ride from Cebu City where you will be dropped to Maya, place in Daan Bantayan where you can catch a 45-minute boat ride from there to the white sand coast of Malapascua.

Day 1

5:45 AM Saturday morning

We grabbed our backpacks and headed for the North Bus Terminal, where the assembly place is. The agreed time was 6 a.m. Irik and Karmil were the first to arrive there.

5:45 AM Saturday morning

We were the second to arrive, Glin and I at about roughly 6 am. We waited for the remaining of the group to arrive, Fatrik and Cilishti. The supplies and our food were with Cilishti. Fatrik was to help in bringing them.

6:45 AM Saturday morning

Still no sign of either two, the four of us were impatient to get to the weekend ahead of us and still no Cilishti or Fatrik in sight. Karmil, Glin and I then decided to grab a bunwich to fill our empty stomachs while waiting for them. Meanwhile, Irik impatiently called Fatrik in the office only to confirm that Fatrik was still asleep. Somebody was asked to wake Fatrik up.

7:10 AM Saturday morning

Cilishti and Fatrik arrived carrying the supplies which consisted of 3 big water containers each full with 5 litres of drinking water, canned goods, junk foods, a tent and some hammocks.

7:20 AM Saturday morning

We were then all set and were in good spirits getting ready to board the bus toward our November-weekend-to-remember Adventure in Malapascua. The memorable quality of that island adventure could be attributed to some silly, funny and memorable things that never ceased to plague our trip from start to finish. This is how it all started.

Episode 1: Bus Driver Fight. The bus drivers had this fight over whose bus to board and even a bit forcefully persuaded some of us to board another bus which resulted in getting us and our belongings so disorganized that the half of us boarded this bus and other half boarded the other bus. But eventually were able to agree on one bus. Whew, what a really a chaotic way to start an island trip.

7:30 AM Saturday morning

The bus we decided on started its engines and we were finally heading towards Maya. While the bus continuously headed towards the North, we were also content to happily watch reruns of Commando and Rambo at the bus’ plasma TV. Even though we groaned at the antics of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone, we were nonetheless blissfully occupied with the scenery and the “classics” we were watching. In no time we arrived at the wharf in Maya where pump boats bob peacefully at the shore. We grabbed our belongings backpacks, litres of drinking water, canned goods, drinks, tents, hammocks and all and boarded the soonest pump boat for our island destination.

12:00 NN Saturday and the Rest of the Day

It was really a bumpy boat ride as there has been news of an impending storm. For us new to such strong current and thick waves, it was really just so marvelous to stare into the ferocious dark blue green sea. Nonetheless, the boat ride was filled with our incessant chatter and bubbling enthusiasm that never ceased to amaze the other passengers. As the island of Malapascua came nearer and nearer into view, the water became tamer and the waves were nowhere to be seen and soon after, the sparkling white expanse of the Malapascua Southern Shoreline winked a welcoming glitter.

We disembarked via a 1-foot wide plank and touched our toes to the hot, fine and pristine white island sand. We arrived at about past twelve not really caring what time it was but our hungry stomachs clamored for food. Heading towards the Tropical Beach Cottages- the least expensive beach front accommodation, we passed along a few of skimpy bikini clad tourists sunbathing along the shore. It was then when it finally dawned that indeed our island getaway has officially started. Upon reaching the cottage, we deposited our belongings and unanimously agreed to feed our stomachs first. We proceeded to Cocobana, a bounty beach resort offering a variety of mouth watering foods at a hundred plus per serving. We then hungrily ate our food mindless of the sky soaring price for each order. Even tap water was sold at 7 pesos per glass without ice. Maybe it is because fresh water and electricity are so hard to come by. Malapascua has no electricity during the day and powered by generators during the night. Electricity only lasts from sundown at until about 10 or 11 pm.

After eating, we began to set up the tent and hammocks that we brought along and slackened for a while. At about 4 pm, we proceeded to the Sunsplash floating bar, just about 25 meters from the shore. We were just in time for the happy hour where all drinks can be obtained at half the price. We lazed for a long while, sipping rum coke and taking in the afternoon view of the island. When we were just remarking about how great it is being away from everything else while leisurely enjoying the unhurried and nice little chitchats, guess who boarded the floating bar… it was our bosses, Nik and Tobi, ready to take their afternoon swim. We later found out that they are regulars at the island after all.

After a while we decided to head to shore again where we dipped, swam and relaxed into the afternoon water. The sand was really so white and the view was just so unspoilt that even a simple afternoon swim could ease all your worries. Then just as time flies so quickly it was time for dinner again, we were forced to take our dinner early as the way of life at the island is just as early as it would again be lights off. We changed our wet clothes and gotten ready for dinner. We ate at Ging Ging’s, a garden eatery which boasts of home cooked Filipino food. The prices were reasonable as the food were also just like ordinary home cooked food. But don’t get us wrong, the food was ok but they were not what we were really looking for. That night, there was a town disco in preparation for their upcoming fiesta celebration, but we decided against it as going there would require a long hike towards the other end of the island. We all voted for relaxing session near the shoreline.

A sleeping bag was laid near the shore with some lounge chairs and a tent and we began pouring the gin and biting lemons and eating junk food and at the same time counting falling stars, Glin and I have counted a total of about 10 falling stars that night. Cilishti and Fatrik were enjoying a silly game about things in a store together with Karmil and Irik. We all laughed our hearts out and contentedly enjoyed the fun-filled and outrageously nice night we are having.

We then prepared to retire after two hours of fun -- eager to rest our weary bones. Just as we were about to sleep, the sounds of slapping here and slapping there, itching here and there awakened our drowsy selves. Oh, did I mention that the island also abound with a gazillion of blood sucking mosquitoes? In fact every cottage has an installed mosquito net at every bed as a desperate act to ward them off. But still, I guess their mosquitoes are hybrid or have just been toughened up by the mixture of blood they have sipped from foreigners, to locals to even us. Not surprisingly, they have gotten past the mosquito nets and have never ceased to suck our blood till morning.

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By: Gina Mary Capatar

Gina Marie Capatar is the head writer of www.isnare.com and she also does freelance content writing jobs for Isnare Outsourcing Services. You may contact her at gina@isnare.com

Caribbean Cruise: An Enchanting Experience

A Caribbean cruise is the world’s most popular cruise. The Caribbean islands are a dream destination and the journey is equally out of the world. The island chains with a delightful combination of modernity and natural resources are a heady mix. If you are a nature lover used to the modern way of life the Caribbean islands and the Caribbean cruise are perfect getaways for you.

A Caribbean cruise takes you to a land of lush vegetation, beautiful beaches and dense forests. Amidst the luxuries of the modern resort, you have the good fortune of experiencing the richness of the immaculate nature reserves. You witness nature in all its glory be it Puerto Rico’s dense rain forest or the nesting grounds of flamingos on Bonaire’s beaches. The pleasant climate of the Caribbean is just perfect for a swim in the sea, snorkeling or just basking on the beach. It is an ideal location for a nature or outdoor lover.

Caribbean cruises have their distinctive charm and characteristic appeal. The islands have a warm climate with some of the world’s best beaches, exquisite marine life along with the amazing coral reef and exceptionally clean seas. Shopping is also an interesting feature with duty free prices.

The Caribbean cruises offer a wide choice for travelers from a two-day trip to a long voyage. It is up to you to choose which one you want to take. The Caribbean comprises of eastern, western and southern Caribbean. A seven days cruise lets you explore the varied flavor of these regions their culture, history and its people in general. Somewhere you find the French influence at another port you find British while you may come across Spanish resemblances all interwoven in the Caribbean style, a distinctive blend. Caribbean cruises are nice family cruises if you time them right i.e. during your children’s school holidays. All the year round, the cruises are organized. Holidays are the busiest periods, so plan ahead and book ahead. All the major lines offer number of routes and cruise itineraries for the Caribbean. You receive excellent food, attentive service, interesting historical tours of ancient ruins and a look at the distinctive culture on the way to the islands. Have a great time onboard relax on the deck, have fun at the entertainment centers and try your luck at the casino in the typical Las-Vegas style.

Caribbean cruise discovers for you beautiful concealed harbors and peaceful coves. It takes you to quiet and serene places away from the mad rush and maddening world. Explore the picturesque beauty of the sand beaches of St. John, the beauty of the sea caves around Virgin Gorda try your hand at yachting at St. Martin. Find yourself a nice bottle of French perfume in the peaceful streets of St. Barthelemy. Enjoy the music and the beats of Tortola’s drums. Try your hand on snorkeling at Pigeon Island. Absorb the magnificence of the Barbados, Nevis, Anguilla and Martinique. You discover amazing beauty and character at every place you visit and just be a mute spectator of all the beauty and natural abundance surrounding you. Caribbean cruise are your passage to an enchanting world with enthralling experiences.

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By: Colin Hartness

http://www.whatcruises.com

Add the New Braunfels Texas Wurstfest to Your Fall Travel

GEMÜTLICHKEIT (warm friendliness, good cheer)

“Willkommen zum WURSTFEST! Prosit, und hab' Spasz!” is the slogan for this really appealing annual event. It means “Welcome. Cheers! To your health, and have fun!”

Combining a unique German community in South Texas, great food, fabulous bands imported from Germany for the occasion, amusement rides, affordable entry, a well-run event and often beautiful weather, the New Braunfels, Texas, “Wurstfest” has all the ingredients of a great family outing. (Plenty of local accommodations available, as this is an area where “gemütlichkeit” is plentiful and tourists are welcome.)

New Braunfels is located just a few miles north of San Antonio, Tx., which offers a full array of activities to include in your schedule – Fiesta Texas, Sea World, the Alamo, the RiverWalk, and wonderful Mexican food and markets, should you wish to make this a multicultural adventure.

Having just returned from a lovely evening at Wurstfest, I’m compelled to tell you how much fun it is. We began on a perfect fall evening unable to resist the smell of the sizzling pork chops and huge German sausages served on a stick, complimented by a great selection of beers, potato soup, German dinners, Reuben sandwiches, corn on the cob – and more -- and ended our evening with pfankuchen, funnel cake and coffee.

We rode the beautiful Ferris wheel and then settled under Das Grosse Zelt, the big tent, at the end of the Marktplatz to be charmed by the 10-piece brass band from Germany whose rousing tunes got everyone up and dancing – just as many kids as adults, and partners not at all required. They were only topped by the band that followed.

This Wurstfest, the celebration of German sausage, began in New Braunfels in 1961, just a one-day affair which nonetheless drew a crowd of 2,000 due to press coverage throughout the nation and in Germany. Since then, it has grown to a ten-day affair with well-maintained permanent facilities drawing over 100,000 and raising many dollars for local charities. Your good time will also be a good deed!

You can learn more about Wurstfest at their official website: http://www.wurstfest.com/index.html , and from the Wurstfest Association, Post Office Box 310309, New Braunfels, Texas 78131-0309, 830/625-9167, or toll free 1-800-221-4369.

Admission is a mere $8.00 per person (children under 12 free), with special rates for early purchase, groups, and day discounts.

ADD ANHALT

If Wurstfest dates should ever coincide with the 3rd Sunday in October (and even if they don’t), make it a homerun by including public dancing at Anhalt Hall, just down the road apiece, about 28 miles west of New Braunfels.

Anhalt was settled by German pioneers around 1857 and this may be the oldest dance hall in Texas, with a newly renovated 6000 square foot hardwood dance floor usually featuring a German band (you MUST do the German Grand March) and then a C&W band (local talent).

It’s open air and you can sit in the grandstands and watch or pay to get on the dance floor. Kids welcome and great food and beer. It is run by the Germania Farmers Verein, originally established to protect the settlers and their livestock from Indians. It’s out in the country and an experience you don’t want to miss.

How far out in the country? Well, according to the website, in the 1970s “the population along Anhalt Road between Farm Road 475 and the hall was estimated at ten.” Population figures for 2000 were not available.

Admission and ample parking are free; there’s a minimal charge ($7?) if you want to get on the dance floor (which you will)!

To read more about Anhalt, go to the Texas Honky Tonk Dance Hall website: http://www.honkytonktx.com/dancehalls/.

They also feature public dancing during Mayfest (3rd Sunday in May), and Summerfest (last Saturday in July).

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By: Susan Dunn

©Susan Dunn, MA, Personal Life and EQ Coach, http://www.susandunn.cc . Offering coaching, Internet courses and ebooks for your personal and professional development. mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc for free ezine.

I train and certify EQ coaches. Email for info on fast, affordable, comprehensive, no-residency program. Start immediately. Great for building a practice.

Bunbury Western Australia - A Holiday Destination For All

Bunbury is located approximately 172kms south of Perth. Bunbury is a water wonderland visited by day trippers and holiday makers alike all year round. The towns population is approximately 30,000 and continuing to grow.

There is so much to see and do in and around Bunbury too. We have pristine beaches, superb yachting facilities, awesome Karri Forests, caves and inlets, beach and sea fishing, breathtaking dives including the amazing ‘Lena Wreck’, playful dolphins, whale watching, great shopping, sumptuous restaurants and a cosmopolitan cappuccino strip, magnificent art galleries, delightful wineries, world-class golfing, lovely lagoons and of course excellent accommodation. Our harbour is one of the most picturesque in W.A. and you can drive along the breakwater all the way to Koombana Bay. Now, you must not leave Bunbury without visiting the dolphins at Koombana Beach (near the inlet mouth of the harbour). Of course we can’t promise that they will turn up on time, but this is one of the few places that you can see these magnificent creatures up close and personal. In Bunbury between June and September watch out for magnificent humpback and southern right whales, who pause to play a while !

in the surrounding waters before migrating to the Antarctic.

Bunbury is the major seaport of the South-West region, and the largest centre in Western Australia outside the metropolitan area. It is an expanding regional centre with a wealth of natural and man-made resources. It is surrounded by much of WA's best agricultural land, and the area is also rich in minerals. Bunbury, however, is primarily a holiday centre, and each year thousands come here to enjoy their holidays. The city is also used as a base to visit many beauty spots of the South-West.

At MyBunbury.com we intend to make as much information available to visitors and locals alike so that we all get to enjoy the variety of attractions that this beautiful town has to offer. Come and see Bunbury for yourself, you'll love it!

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By: Steve Wall

Albany Western Australia - A Holiday Destination For All

Albany Western Australia is a city of approximately 30,000 people in the south-west corner of Western Australia, approximately 409km from Perth . The city is nestled between three large hills, Mount Clarence, Mount Melville and Mount Adelaide, facing the beautiful King George III Sound.

The main industries of Albany Western Australia consist of tourism, fishing and agriculture, although before the 1950s whaling was one of the major sources of income and employment for the population. One of Albany's old Whaling stations has now become one of the biggest tourist attractions for the area.

Since that time, Albany has become popular destination for a variety of visitors enjoying the fresh air, clean beaches, and fine views over the Southern Ocean, while still proving to be a thriving regional centre.

There is so much to see and do in and around Albany too. We have pristine beaches, superb yachting facilities, awesome wildflowers (in season), caves and inlets, beach and sea fishing, breathtaking dives, whale watching, great shopping, sumptuous restaurants and a cosmopolitan cappuccino strip, magnificent art galleries, delightful wineries, world-class golfing, lovely lagoons and of course excellent accommodation. Our harbour is one of the most picturesque in W.A. too!

In Albany between June and September watch out for magnificent humpback and southern right whales, who pause to play a while in the surrounding waters before migrating north to the warmer waters to breed.

Albany is the major seaport of the Great Southern region, and the largest centre in Western Australia outside the metropolitan area. It is an expanding regional centre with a wealth of natural and man-made resources. It is surrounded by much of WA's best agricultural land, and the area is also rich in minerals. Albany, however, is primarily a holiday centre, and each year thousands come here to enjoy their holidays. The city is also used as a base to visit many beauty spots of the Great Southern.

At MyAlbany.net we intend to make as much information available to visitors and locals alike so that we all get to enjoy the variety of attractions that this beautiful town has to offer. Come and see Albany for yourself, you'll love it!

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By: Steve Wall

Article by Steve Wall of www.myalbany.net.

Turbulence Or A Smooth Ride? You Decide

Why is it that 2 people can use the same airport, the same airline and even be on the exact same flight, and have 2 totally different stories about their trip?

Is it all about attitude?

Well...sort of. It's about our expectations and is influenced by visualization. We have a vision of what we will be experiencing, whether we are conscious of it or not.

Trainers and Coaches talk about a process of visualizing the end result, as you would desire it to happen. They suggest you use this process when preparing for meetings, sales presentations and other activities, whereby one outcome is preferred over another.

That vision absolutely does affect the outcome. Ask any athlete and they will tell you.

Athletes have used visualizing techniques for years. That is what you observe them doing when you see them standing and focusing on their target, in an almost trance-like state, at the starting line or on the field, just before they hit or throw the ball. These professionals are all envisioning, in advance, what they want the outcome to be.

Can this process of visualization, work for you also in your every day professional and personal life? Let's say you are traveling and would like to experience incredible food, clean rooms ready for your arrival, flights and luggage arriving on time, friendly and efficient service.

Can that really happen? The answer is...It sure can. Wayne Dyer, best-selling author of "The Power of Intention: Learning to Co-Create Your World Your Way" says that it is definitely possible to affect all the experiences in our lives. Try these suggested steps when planning your next trip, for example.

1. Think how you want to feel before, during and after your trip. (Since the energy you put out reflects on the outcome, this is the best place to start). Do you want to feel rested? Relaxed? Unhurried? Full of energy? Joyful? Even visualize a sense of accomplishment that the meeting went well and the deal was approved and signed by all parties. Really imagine the way you want to feel, as if it has already happened.

2. As you are going about making the reservations, packing >your luggage and all the other activities leading up to the first day of your departure, continue to keep the vision of all the fun and successful interactions with others you are going to experience.

You can even imagine being a magnet to some of the most amazing people on your trip and see who you attract.

Investing the time to learn and use this process, is key to having great travel experiences.

Will it really work for you? Only if you try it. All I can say is... Check it out. You might like it.

P.S. This may be a new muscle and if at first, you don't succeed...practice, practice, practice. Better yet, just like an athlete, you might even want to get yourself a Coach!

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By: Pat Graham-Block and Elon Block

Mandurah - Western Australia | A Holiday Destination For All

Mandurah is located approximately 72kms south of Perth - Western Australia. Mandurah is a water wonderland visited by day trippers and holiday makers alike all year round. The towns population is approximately 50,000 and continuing to grow. In fact Mandurah is the fastest growing regional town in Western Australia! It won Tourism Town of the year 2003 and It is now home to activities such as surfing, swimming, crabbing, dolphin watching, boating, fishing and world-class golfing, and that's just scratching the surface!

The town centre of Mandurah is situated around Mandjar Bay and it's foreshore is lined with wonderful parkways, barbeque facilities cafe's, restaurants and a great boardwalk, which is just one of the many other walks available. During weekends and holiday seasons the Mandurah foreshore is packed solid with visitor's enjoying the beautiful surroundings and watching the dolphins at play. At night the Foreshore lights up to produce a spectacular display of coloured lights which are reflected on the water. Its a fabulous lifestyle!

There is so much to do in and around Mandurah that even the locals don't know what they are missing. At MyMandurah.com we intend to make as much information available to visitors and locals alike so that we all get to enjoy the variety of attractions that this beautiful town has to offer. Come and see Mandurah for yourself, you'll love it! I came for a weeks holiday and relocated here 2 months later!

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By: Steve Wall

For more info on this great place Visit http://www.mymandurah.com

Radisson Cruises - A Six Star Luxury Experience

Radisson cruises come under the flagship of six star luxury cruises offering an opportunity to explore and discover three hundred ports on 6 continents, including Antarctica. All the luxury liners share the same style of accommodation, service, dining and amenities. Radisson Cruise has been twice chosen as the World’s best small Cruise line.

The passenger guests aboard the Radisson Cruise experience high standards of excellence in cruising and exciting discovery experiences across the globe. You are able to get some improvements, benefits or special events on a complimentary basis or at a minimal charges and some “extras” with the cruise fares such as gratuities, non-alcoholic beverage all along your trip, wines at lunch and dinner, a wide liquor selection in the suite bar or a welcome wine or champagne upon embarkation. World Cruise and Cruise Liner Society has awarded the “Best Cruise Value” Radisson Cruise for eleven consecutive years.

You can visit online to get information on the various destinations offered by the RadissonCruise. During the summers, it is extremely popular to cruise to Alaska to enjoy its majesty and its wilderness. With Radisson, you experience a difference in cruising with its Seven Seas Mariner and all-suite all-balcony vessel sailing through Alaska. If you are interested to explore quaint fishing villages, colorful markets and ancient cultures – where you go fishing for marlin in Mazatlan, play snorkel in Cabo San Lucas or visit the Puerto Vallarta beaches, the Radisson Mexican Cruises provide excellent service.

Perhaps you would like to explore the idyllic islands of Tahiti with the Paul Ganguin ultra luxury cruise vessel with 320 guests aboard. The Paul Ganguin is equipped with doors,balconies and airy windows, appealing the tropical breeze. You can step off the sea-level water sports platform to experience a coral lagoon. Aboard this luxury vessel and discover the bewitching islands in fascination.

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By: Colin Hartness

http://www.whatcruises.com

Carnival Cruise - a perfect holiday

If you want to have fun for one low price, all you need is a Carnival cruise. A Carnival cruise is a perfect way to pamper yourself. You don’t have to worry about paying extra for meals, entertainment and a range of activities. You just unpack once on the cruise ship. You are in the capable hands of fitness experts having massages, loofah treatments, hairstyles, saunas, pedicures, applying soothing masks and micro-facelifts, there is a complete relaxation schedule for you with nautical spas, and the exercise programs.

Carnival plays every song- from hard rock, musicals, country music or big band. There is a sing-along piano for you to hum along. Compare it to the land vacation where you are constantly involved with the buying theater tickets, reservations, valet parking and looking for other things to do.

Carnival cruise is the most popular cruise in the whole world. With carnival you dine, dream and dance as you sail from one foreign destination to the other. It’s popular with first time cruisers, young singles, couples, old and young loving the party atmosphere. The Carnival cruise highlights include- casual dinner at Sea View Bistro, a convenient 24-hour pizzeria, captain’s cocktail party and gala dinner, complimentary 24-hour room service, camp carnival for kids and teens. In addition to this get to see daily first run movies, dazzling Las Vegas style casino, fine dining with Gala midnight buffets, Nautical spa program, outdoor swimming pools and whirlpools, onboard duty-free shopping and singles cocktail party.

Carnival is an entertainment saga for singles, couples and families and it carries more passengers from all age group on board than any other cruise line. You can enjoy a lavish evening in the two levels Paris Lounge or you can rock and roll in the Rock and Roll dance club, the Café des Artistes and the Monte Carlo Casino. You have stepped into sheer luxury with spacious and comfortable accommodations. All the staterooms are fully carpeted with closet space, private facilities (toilet, basin and shower), and color television screening first-run films. All the staterooms on these super liners are above the ocean level for a better-relaxed cruise. Carnival staterooms are fifty percent larger on average than other cruise lines. You get one hundred percent personal care whether you choose interior or ocean view suite or penthouse suite.

You can give your kids a fun holiday with all kind of games, talent shows parties, movies, crafts, arts, and a world of fun under the supervision of camp carnival counselors. All the counselors are college educated having professional childcare experience and your kids are secure under their competent hands.

If for some reason you are not satisfied with the cruise experience you can notify carnival ahead of coming at the first port of call and you may well get down at first non-US port of call of your ship. Carnival cruise will reimbursement the unutilized part of your cruise charge and compensate for your return flight fare. You can look at carnival cruise vacation protection plans for a worry-free vacation.

Carnival serves buffet on the deck. There is teatime with your favorite beverage and pastries. Moreover, you can place order for complimentary stateroom service 24-hours a day. Your table is always reserved in the dining room. However, you may also eat dinner in the restaurant “Sea View Bistro” on Lido deck. The attire is informal and the meals are buffet style. The restaurant has an open seating and is rather laid back. Of course, if you are calorie conscious carnival has wide Nautical Spa selections with every meal. All the menus have been prepared with the consultation of dietitians. You can have the fresh oven pizzas at the 24-hour pizzeria. There is live music playing at the dazzling spirit lobby. You may like to enjoy your drinks with close friends at the bar.

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By: Colin Hartness

http://www.whatcruises.com

What's In Your Hiking Pack?

Every time I leave the pavement, I take along my trusty hiking pack - even if I have no intention of hiking. Doing this has become a habit rather than a conscious decision. My pack goes with me when a hike, camp, hunt, fish, bird watch and even when I drive out of town. I've been a boy scout and a United States Marine so I suppose I have learned to be prepared for almost anything. My pack is full of items I hope I will never need.

What's in Your Hiking Pack? As an outdoor enthusiast, you have complete control over what you carry or what stays in the car - such as a cell phone, do you carry one? I wouldn't dare go inthe backcountry without all of the items listed below as "Highly Recommend." What's in My Hiking Pack? Here is my list split into two categories with the weight of each item in ounces:

Highly Recommend: Cell Phone (5 ounces), First-Aid Kit (9), Flashlight (4), Food - Beef Jerky (4), Insect Repellent (3), Map & Compass (4), Multi-Tool (9), Pack (24), Signal Mirror (1), Spare Vehicle Key (1), Sunglasses & Sunscreen (2), Water, Waterproof matches (1), Waterproof windbreaker (24), Whistle (1). Total weight: 5 pounds 12 ounces, not including water.

Nice to Have: Bandana (1), Binoculars (12), Cash & ID (1), Disposable Camera (4), Emergency Blanket (1), Extra Batteries (4), GPS Unit (10), Hand warmers (1), Hunting knife (8), Lighter(1), Lip Balm (1), Mini-Umbrella (10), Paper & Pen (1), Rangefinder (8), Road Flare (4), 12 feet of rope (2), Saw (7), Toilet Paper (1), Two-Way Radio (7), Work Gloves (2). Total weight: 5 pounds 2 ounces.

The total weight of my hiking pack not counting water, is 10 pounds 14 ounces. My pack has a shoulder harness system that takes the weight off of my lower back and distributes it evenly across my shoulders and upper back. I hardly notice my pack when I'm wearing it. One last point, if you carry something – make sure you know how to use it.

We've all heard quotes about being prepared, such as "Chance favors the prepared mind." - Louis Pasteur and "The will to win is important, but the will to prepare is vital." - Joe Paterno and "Chance fights ever on the side of the prudent." - Euripides. I suggest carrying a well thought out pack is a good habit and a good outdoor life-skill. One day it may save a family member, an outdoor companion or even you.

Plan ahead before you venture into our backcountry, even if you plan to be gone only an hour or two. It makes good sense. With just this small amount of planning you'll get the most out ofyour backcountry experiences. Use this information and you'll Get It Right The First Time.Get Outdoors!

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By: Chuck Fit

About the author: Chuck Fitzgerald is the President of Arizonabased BackCountry Toys, an online store providing backcountryspecialty gear and educational information for outdoorenthusiasts. Visit www.BackCountryToys.com to receive the freenewsletter "FreshAir" or call (800) 316-9055.

Backpacking South East Asia on an Adventurous Route

The South East Asian region of the world - especially Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos - has become increasing popular as a destination for those travelers seeking a more adventurous holiday than can be had merely sipping fruity, ice-cold drinks at your typical beach resort. However, an adventurous trip to these developing countries raises many questions and one of the first is what route to take, which I will try to answer in this article.

Most people with enough time would like to get a taste for all four that I’ve mentioned earlier, so I’ll concentrate on a route that includes all of them. It would take about three months if you spent a few days at each stop. Keep in mind that there certainly are options available that would allow you to skip countries or even shorten the trip to fit into a more constrained timeline, but this should give you a good starting point for further research.

As far as getting around, travel by public bus, train, and boat is readily available and often full of adventure - after all, traveling with a busload of chickens or the occasional box of frogs just adds to the fun, right? However, those looking for a little more comfort will usually be able to find more upscale options.

Many people that intend on doing a circuit though South East Asia will fly into Bangkok since it is a major hub. Bangkok is also rich with markets, temples, and plenty of fabulous food. Around Bangkok, there are several options for some side trips which allow you to get your feet wet. Kanchanaburi is a few hours away and is the location of the infamous bridge over the River Kwai and the Death Railway, the Erewan National Park, and the Three Pagodas Pass near the Myanmar border. If you are not going to the southern islands, but wouldn’t mind checking out the beach scene, you could also take a few days and visit Ko Samet or Ko Chang (less expensive) to get a taste of island life. Both are only a few hours from Bangkok by bus.

Once you’ve had your fill of the Bangkok area, work your way north to Chiang Mai. I like the train and it can be taken overnight, for those low on time, or during the day for those that wish to see some of the beautiful countryside. Chiang Mai is much less hectic than Bangkok, has some opportunities for great sight seeing, and also has a great cooking school! If you want to check out some smaller towns in Thailand, you can do that from Chiang Mai with a little add-on side trip. It’s a loop that goes by public bus to the wonderful village of Pai which is set up in the misty valleys that are laden with lush rice paddies, and then continues by bus or boat to Mae Hong Son, then by bus back to Chiang Mai.

In any case, from Chiang Mai, continue your journey north to Chiang Rai and onwards to Chiang Khong, which is the jumping point into your second country, Laos. You cross the Mekong River with a short boat ride and enter Laos on the opposite bank at Huay Xai. From there you immediately continue on to Luang Prabang by slow boat or fast boat (latter not recommended, unless you enjoy wearing a crash helmet), making an optional overnight stay in the rustic village of Pacbeng.

After spending a few days in Luang Prabang you could do a side trip up north, exploring the small northern villages of Laos for a few days, or just head down to the chilled-out town of Vang Vieng by bus or air. The road route to Vang Vieng is sometimes the target of bandits, so be sure to check what recent activity has been like, and then make your decision - but the safety record of air travel may not be much more inspiring!

Vang Vieng is full of fun kayaking, biking and caving opportunities, so you’ll want to plan for a few days there before moving on to the capital city of Vientiane. It doesn’t seem too exciting for a capital city, so I wouldn’t plan to spend too much time there, other than to visit the strange, but interesting Buddha Park.

Take the bus from Vientiane to Hanoi via the mountains and the Cau Treo border crossing into Vietnam. Hanoi is a very interesting place with lots to do and also offers a few interesting side trips: Sapa is a beautiful village set in the mountains, and Halong Bay, a Unesco World Heritage site, offers amazing views of thousands of mountainous karsts jutting up from the ocean waters.

In Hanoi, you can buy an “Open Tour” bus ticket that gets you all the way south to Ho Chi Minh (Saigon). It has a standard set of stops, but allows you to purchase add-ons for a few dollars each, two of which I highly recommend being Ninh Binh and Dalat. From Hanoi, the first stop will indeed be Ninh Binh. Not a particularly touristy town, but the launching point to visit the spectacular Tam Coc park and/or the Cuc Phuong National Park.

From Ninh Binh, move to Hue for a day or two, then on to Hoi An to check out the amazing tailors and beaches, then to Nha Trang (a partying beach town that can be skipped if you wish), and then on to your second add-on which is the mountain town of Dalat. From Dalat, you can do another addon stop in Mui Ne which is very quiet and good if you just want to relax and maybe poke around the local market a little bit.

The last stop in Vietnam will be Ho Chi Minh which offers plenty to see and do including a massage at the Vietnamese Traditional Medicine Institute for a couple of dollars. From there, you can cross into Cambodia in a couple ways. The first is a bus ride through some beautiful country to Phnom Penh, and the second is a boat tour through the Mekong Delta which also deposits you in Phnom Penh. Be warned though: the roads in Cambodia are dirt and very slow going, but the scenery is incredible if your backside can take it.

Phnom Penh gets mixed reviews but does have a couple of must visits before you continue: the Killing Fields and S-21. When you do move on, you again have the choice of bus or boat up to Siem Riep. I prefer the bus because of the fantastic views and the insight into the lives of the country folk - trust me, you’ll never forget it.

After spending some time gawking at the awesome ruins of Angkor Wat at Siem Riep, you can fly or bus it back to Bangkok, once again back where you started! Again, the bus is harsh, but worth it to see Poipet (I’ll say it again: not to stay, but to see) and the night-and-day change visible in a matter of a few meters when you cross from the poverty of Cambodia into developing Thailand.

There you have it. That route can be done in 3 months if you don’t choose every side trip mentioned (to do it all you’ll want to add another couple of weeks). If you work it out, you’ll find you can spend a few nights in each place, but don't make the mistake of creating some sort of concrete itinerary. Just be aware of your time, because you will want to spend lots of time in some places, while spending little in others and you really won’t know which until you get there. Be flexible within reason, and remember: it’s all about having fun!

Once back in Bangkok, you now have the option to work your way south to the islands, and perhaps, onward to other countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, or perhaps they will have to wait until your next trip, and yes, you will want to come back.

One of the next logical questions is: What is it like to travel around these countries on a route like this? That’s precisely the experience I detail in my book Rice Crust from the Bottom of the Pot: A Journey Across South East Asia (http://parryloeffler.com/ricecrust). It’s full of crazy adventures, wonderful stories of my interactions with the locals, and even a few recipes collected directly from their kitchens.

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By: Parry Loeffler

A Great Motorcycle Ride in Mexico: Queretaro

A beautiful ride across cities and places named World Heritage by the Unesco, through an splendid protected natural area and ending in a surrealistic garden by artist Sir Edward James. Just keep reading... The ride starts in Queretaro City at 5,970 ft above sea level.

Queretaro is a colonial city founded more than 500 years ago and named World Heritage by the Unesco in 1996 . It's located in the center of the country two hours North Mexico City. Nowadays it has become one of the most dynamic cities in Mexico due to the surrounding industrial parks where many international companies are located.

The first stop is just 45 minutes away: "La Peña de Bernal" (The "Rock of Bernal"). We are talking about the third biggest rock in the world and the highest in Mexico. At its feet a quaint little town were you can stop for a soda, lunch or spend the night. You can also find nice little souvenirs. Whatever you decide to do, this place is a must.

If you like rock climbing, you are in the right place too!

The road to Bernal doesn't present any major challenge, most of the road is straight with just a few extended curves... but just after passing Bernal it starts to get fun!

Surrounded by an arid landscape due the high content of lime in the soil, you start with a very interesting section of twisties, one after another, up and down, a technical road between the mountains for about 30 miles. The landscape changes a bit as you advance and a few miles later you are in the middle of a semidesert.

After this twisty section you then continue on a straight part of the road. A few more miles down the route and you find a military checkpoint... Don't worry about it, they are normally courteous people just looking for arm and drug smugglers.

After the control point the curves and the fun start again. As you get to "Peña Blanca" ("White Rock" in English) - by the way if you need gas, this is the place to stop and fill it up - you start climbing the mountains twist after twist.

I love this part: most of the ride you can clearly see three or four turns in front of you, and as it is a low traffic road, you can enjoy yourself taking the best lines (always keeping it in the safe side if you know what I mean!).
After climbing for a while you notice how things start to change and suddenly what were rocks, sand and cactus are now pine trees. It's beautiful.. You feel the change of temperature and then you reach "La Puerta del Cielo" (The Door of Heavens") the highest point in this ride.

We are now at about 9200 feet above sea level... The turns continue but now you are going downhill. Remember to adjust your riding to that fact. Unfortunately I have seen more than one forgetting about it that and paying the consequences.

As you start descending you ride through a small town called Pinal the Amoles... descend, turn turn, descend turn turn, descend turn turn... I love it! About 10 miles after Pinal de Amoles, the weather starts to change again and gets warmer. The vegetation also suffers a sudden transformation.

You keep devouring the road and you cannot help but getting marveled of the landscape around you... Just remember to keep your eyes on the road! Turn, turn... You are in the middle of the Sierra Gorda protected area and home of multiple plants and animals.

You continue descending till you reach Jalpan de Serra the most important town in the Sierra Gorda and place where Father Junipero Serra built one of his most important missions in the area before heading north to build the Missions in California. These missions were also named World Heritage by the Unesco in 2003.

In Jalpan you can find a couple of simple but nice hotels and some restaurants. Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a few more miles west to a place called Conca where you 'll find a hotel with Spa to relax from the day's ride and get ready for the rest of the trip.

After Jalpan our next stop and final destination is Xilitla, so you head north-east till you reach the state of San Luis Potosi.

A few miles after crossing the state limits in the middle of the mountains, at about 3,300 ft asl, in a rain forest of incredible vegetation you get to Xilitla.

This town was chosen by Sir Edward James, a surrealistic British artist - also noble and rich -, to spend the rest of his life. It is in this place he built a huge garden, a private zoo and a meditation place in the middle of the jungle. Its very difficult to describe it with words... Maybe the photos in this site can help: http://www.junglegossip.com/.

In Xilitla you can stay in the Castillo "The Castle" the house of former Sir Edward James' right hand and friend: Plutarco Gastelum. This exclusive Bed and Breakfast is unique in its kind and you can see, feel and breath the influence of the artist everywhere.

Another possibility to spend the night is to ride a bit more to the north and stay in Ciudad Valles an important city of San Luis Potosi state where you will find all kind of hotels and restaurants, night life etc.

My recommendation... stay at the Castillo, forget about your ride and enjoy for a whole day this Mexican Shangri La.

After spending the whole day in Xilitla prepare for a long ride back to Queretaro. For this one I like to leave early in the morning and keep, if possible, a fast pace. Turn, turn...

We are talking about many miles and literally hundreds of twisties... Once my wife counted them... She stopped when she was at the 500th and we hadn't arrived back to Queretaro City yet!

It's so fun that the time flies and suddenly you realize it's all over and you would like to turn around and do it again...

You know the feeling right?

Another possibility from Xilitla is to head to the famous Huasteca Potosina a zone of exuberant rivers, waterfalls and springs... But that area deserves a whole article by itself. I will be writing it in the future.

If you liked the trip I described and want more information about great motorcycle rides in Mexico and/or to contact me for any other issue please visit my site at www.japanese-motorcycles-only.com.

Enjoy the ride!

Daniel Levy

P.S. Below you will find a few facts about this ride.

Facts about the ride:

Difficulty: Intermediate-Advanced

Recommended time to enjoy the trip: 3-4 days

Total length of the ride: about 600 milesCheckpoints:

Queretaro-Bernal

Bernal-Military Checkpoint

Military Checkpoint-Pinal de Amoles

Pinal de Amoles-Jalpan de Serra

Jalpan de Serra-Xilitla

Weather: normally clear and dry with the exception of the rainy season from July to September where you can find some heavy rain.
Recommended Map: Guia Roji Mexico Tourist Road Atlas. You can find it at Amazon.

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By: Daniel Levy

Daniel Levy is the owner and contributing writer of http://www.Japanese-Motorcycles-Only.com. He loves motorcycles and Web development.

Spanish Courses in Spain

Spain: sun, sea, sand and Spanish... discover us! Spain, a golden country in the heart of Europe and gateway to the Americas. A mini continent blessed with sunshine and charisma and overflowing with culture, history, art, flamenco and mouth watering tapas.

A "true paradise" with something for everyone.

Spain offers a rich natural diversity with green mountains in the North, the flat centre, and heavenly beaches along the seemingly endless Southern and Eastern coasts.

The country is a perfect balance of the ancient world and the new, where traditional cathedrals sit side by side with modern architecture in the elegant remains of Roman and Moorish cities. Typical Mediterranean cuisine is found along with fast food restaurants; football matches share the arenas with bullfights, both arousing the same passion in the old and young alike.

Are you tired of trying to learn Spanish or improving your Spanish skills at home?

Quality Courses offers the most affordable way to learn Spanish in Spain. Here you can find the best Spanish Schools in the most attractive towns of Spain.

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By: Manu Rodriguez

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Are you Ready for the Cruise of a Lifetime?

Cruises are one of the best ways to unwind and relax. It's the ultimate in vacations. Is a cruise for you? Do you know what there is to do on a cruise? Its not just a ride on a boat you know.

When you are tired of working long hours and feel as though your life has become dull and uninteresting, a cruise would be a great way to liven things up, to say the least. You will get to choose where you would like to go, when you would like to go, and the activities you want to participate in. While some cruises are more for touring cities around the world, others allow you to just enjoy the sea itself.

Do you have a destination in mind for your cruise? Do you have any activities in mind that you would like to do on your cruise? If not, check out the multitude of choices available to you. Ask a travel agent to help you, or, browse websites that offer cruises. Check out your choices. Most likely, you will find something that suits your needs!

Perhaps you want to learn a new skill? Do you see yourself mountain climbing? Rock climbing? Learning to ski or go scuba diving? You can take a cruise that will allow you to try out these fascinating experiences.

Or, maybe you are more in the mood to relax on your cruise? Enjoying fine dining and live shows may be more along your lines. Taking a swim in the pool, relaxing in the sun, and spending your days with your loved ones may be the most important part of your vacation. Or, maybe you want to see the world's cities? See and learn of new cultures and adventures?

Whatever you are in the mood for, a cruise can provide a great opportunity to see new things, learn new things, and experience the best the world has to offer. Check out the multitude of options you have!

Visit http://www.e-travelpromos.com to make your travel arrangements and take a cruise of a lifetime.

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By: Sandy Baker

Sandy Baker is staff article writer at http://www.e-travelpromos.com. sbaker@e-travelpromos.com

Why a Cruise Vacation is YOUR Dream Holiday

Thinking you could use an escape from the wintertime blahs, maybe even that dream holiday you've been thinking about for years? A Caribbean cruise vacation is the answer! What makes a cruise your dream holiday, you ask? Well, put simply, a cruise combines all the elements of a dream vacation into one blissful trip. There is ALWAYS something to do, no matter your age or interests. Whether you're on your honeymoon, vacationing with the family, or spending quality time reuniting old friends, a cruise is guaranteed to fulfill your dreams.

Picture yourself riding on a beautiful cruise ship, looking over the railing to see brilliant blue waters, idyllic sunsets, and dolphins playing in the white-capped waves. Do you feel dreamy already? This fantasy can be your reality if you choose a cruise for your next vacation.

With multiple poolside decks to lay out in the sunshine while enjoying the sights and sounds of the ocean, along with reggae music and fruity island beverages, daytime on the cruise ship can be very relaxing. If you prefer to be more active, most ships are fully equipped with activities. Take a jog around the boat-top track, or spend the day in aerobics and yoga classes followed by a massage and facial at the spa. If shopping is your one true love, you'll be in heaven with all the shops on the ships, ranging from inexpensive trinkets to fancy wine and fine clothing.

As if there isn't enough to do aboard the boat, don't forget about island excursions! As the ship makes stops at various tropical paradises, you can take in the local culture or fulfill your need for adventure. Locals await you to take you to their favorite coral to swim with the dolphins or on a waterfall climb. Also, there is unlimited shopping on the islands, so you can really add to your art collection or your wardrobe. Try the native food of the islands, and maybe learn a new word or two. By the time you climb back aboard your ship you'll truly feel like you've visited another world.

Now it's time to hop in the shower to prepare for the evening. Every night on a cruise ship is magical. Start out with a five-course meal in the fine dining room (that's already paid for!!). Enjoy drinks, piano music, cover bands, dancing and more in one of the several bars, or try your luck at black jack or poker in the casino. There are always cruise-wide games to play on the decks if you want to meet new people or just be silly with your friends and family. No matter what you are looking for in a holiday vacation, a cruise is sure to fulfill your dreams!

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By Keith Kingston

Keith Kingston is a professional web publisher offering Royal Carribean cruises and cruise discounts.

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

Looking for information about cruises?

Go to: http://www.whatcruises.com 'What Cruises' is published by Colin Hartness - An excellent resource for Cruises! Check out more cruise articles at: http://www.whatcruises.com/archive