Why you should utilize the services of an online agency that specializes in cruises....
Whether you've been on a dozen Caribbean cruises or are eagerly anticipating your very first cruise to the Caribbean or another destination, you may find yourself in a quandary: should you book your cruise directly with a specific cruise line or should you utilize the services of an online agency that specializes in cruises?
Choices and Prices
The short answer is that you'll get the most choices and the best prices through an Internet cruise specialist. With a few clicks of your mouse, you'll be able to peruse Caribbean cruises, Mediterranean cruises, Alaska cruises, and those to many other destinations. You'll learn which cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean Cruises or Carnival Cruises, travel to your desired destination. The best online cruise specialists offer an easy way to search for cruises: by cruise line, destination, duration, date, and port of departure. Being able to see a summary of all of your available choices will help you find the cruise line that's right for you.
Moreover, premiere online cruise specialists have access to the lowest rates available for all cruise lines. This is because they buy blocks of staterooms at a steep discount and can pass along the savings to you. For example, if you are interested in Alaska cruises, you could select Alaska as your destination and view the featured promotions available through the agency. You may find that bookings for seven-night Royal Caribbean cruises from Seattle to Alaska are priced as low as $599. On the other hand, if you're looking for perfect Mediterranean cruises, special cruise promotions allow you to enjoy 12 days on Carnival Cruises for an incredibly low price. The best online cruise specialists will even include a coupon book, worth at least $200, that you can use for drinks, casino chips, massages, and more.
Side-by-Side Comparisons, Reviews, and More
Online cruise specialists provide a number of other advantages you won't find by booking directly with a cruise line. The websites of many cruise lines are difficult to navigate and it's a chore to find the information you need. If you're trying to compare ship deck plans from, say, Royal Caribbean cruises and Carnival cruises, it involves opening up several browser windows and figuring out which ships to view. Premiere online cruise specialists make it easy to compare ship deck plans by listing every ship - across all cruise lines - on the same page.
Almost without exception, individual cruise lines will feature glowing testimonials on their websites. It's difficult to get a realistic sense of a specific cruise or a specific ship. Online cruise specialists take the guesswork out of the process by providing passengers with the opportunity to write reviews about their experiences. Knowing that you're getting the real story from real people helps to ease your mind about a given cruise or cruise line.
The bottom line is that a premiere online cruise specialist will provide you with personalized one-on-one service, terrific low prices, and a free cruise search engine that updates its rates every 24 hours and shows every cruise in the world! So whether you're dreaming of warming yourself in the sun on Caribbean cruises or witnessing the calving of glaciers on Alaska cruises, booking your cruise with an online cruise specialist is the way to go.
Minggu, 31 Juli 2011
Sabtu, 30 Juli 2011
Why it is never too early to book your Summer Beach Break
It's never too early to book your Summer Break – no matter what the length of your stay.
Copyright 2006 Michael Hanna
With the exception of your friends and family it always seems to be the same type of people you speak to about summer holidays. With me it always seems to be taxi drivers or barbers. After the invariable discussions of how bad the weather is and asking how busy they have been on that particular day the normal silence begins as your mind drifts off on to other things. However, I often find the next step in conversation often leads to one party enquiring “Are you going away anywhere nice in the summer this year?”. By the time this question has been asked you have now encompassed the entire range of British small talk obsessions – the weather, complaining about work and summer holiday’s. At least the last topic is fun!
It is possible to stereotype this conversation further. How often for example have you had the following conversation;
You : “Miserable weather today”
Service Sector Employee : “Yes very depressing, it is supposed to be like this all week”
You : “So are you going anywhere nice on your holiday’s this year?”
Service Sector Employee : “I think I’m just going to book something last minute”
It is certainly true that the British love a last minute bargain. No planning, no fuss and inexpensive. What could be better? Just jump on an Easy Jet (http://www.easyjet.com ) and head off to Costa Del Sunny. To be honest there is very little harm in this as there are certainly many good deals to be had, even if it does mean you are adopting the lucky dip approach to holidaymaking.
However, what is a mistake is the common misconception that the only way to get a real discount holiday is to wait until the last minute before you book. Indeed often now the opposite is true with consumers being rewarded for early bookings. The other advantage of this of course is it reduces the chances of ending up on Watchdog in early September complaining about the 40 minute walk to the beach and the builders who woke you up every morning at 6.30 am.
To be honest there is no real excuse not to be organised when it comes to booking your sunshine holiday these days. Websites such as Superbreak (http://www.superbreak.com ) offer fantastic ranges of beach and apartment breaks across the globe and booking anything from a three week hotel holiday to a quick short break couldn’t be simpler. The advantage you get is you know exactly what you are getting – at a competitive price.
To many the thought of going on a beach holiday for a short break would break with tradition, however growing numbers of savvy travellers are discovering the joys of being in work one minute and then basking on a sun kissed beach a couple of hours later. Traditionally, the British are very predictable when it comes to holidaymaking. Every year literally thousands of people take there usual two weeks off to find some sunshine in Spain, Greece or Florida. Beach holidays are seen as the main annual break where people can switch off for a fortnight, sit in the sun and unwind.
However, many forward thinking companies have started to challenge these traditions and open up UK consumers to the idea of beach breaks that can be enjoyed over a shorter period of time.
Perhaps one of the main reasons why such breaks are becoming more accessible are the discount airlines such as Aerlingus (http://www.aerlingus.com ) offering cheap return flights to popular sunshine resorts such as Ibiza, Gran Canaria and Cyprus. Combining these discount flights with the abundance of hotel and accommodation deals that are on offer means that beach breaks are becoming increasingly competitive.
Overall, taking 2-3 days to top up your tan is becoming easier to do for the UK traveller and the appeal of being on a beach in an exotic location a matter of hours after leaving your work is strong – just don’t always leave it to the last minute to book – you will have a lot more to talk about with your hairdresser as a result!
Copyright 2006 Michael Hanna
With the exception of your friends and family it always seems to be the same type of people you speak to about summer holidays. With me it always seems to be taxi drivers or barbers. After the invariable discussions of how bad the weather is and asking how busy they have been on that particular day the normal silence begins as your mind drifts off on to other things. However, I often find the next step in conversation often leads to one party enquiring “Are you going away anywhere nice in the summer this year?”. By the time this question has been asked you have now encompassed the entire range of British small talk obsessions – the weather, complaining about work and summer holiday’s. At least the last topic is fun!
It is possible to stereotype this conversation further. How often for example have you had the following conversation;
You : “Miserable weather today”
Service Sector Employee : “Yes very depressing, it is supposed to be like this all week”
You : “So are you going anywhere nice on your holiday’s this year?”
Service Sector Employee : “I think I’m just going to book something last minute”
It is certainly true that the British love a last minute bargain. No planning, no fuss and inexpensive. What could be better? Just jump on an Easy Jet (http://www.easyjet.com ) and head off to Costa Del Sunny. To be honest there is very little harm in this as there are certainly many good deals to be had, even if it does mean you are adopting the lucky dip approach to holidaymaking.
However, what is a mistake is the common misconception that the only way to get a real discount holiday is to wait until the last minute before you book. Indeed often now the opposite is true with consumers being rewarded for early bookings. The other advantage of this of course is it reduces the chances of ending up on Watchdog in early September complaining about the 40 minute walk to the beach and the builders who woke you up every morning at 6.30 am.
To be honest there is no real excuse not to be organised when it comes to booking your sunshine holiday these days. Websites such as Superbreak (http://www.superbreak.com ) offer fantastic ranges of beach and apartment breaks across the globe and booking anything from a three week hotel holiday to a quick short break couldn’t be simpler. The advantage you get is you know exactly what you are getting – at a competitive price.
To many the thought of going on a beach holiday for a short break would break with tradition, however growing numbers of savvy travellers are discovering the joys of being in work one minute and then basking on a sun kissed beach a couple of hours later. Traditionally, the British are very predictable when it comes to holidaymaking. Every year literally thousands of people take there usual two weeks off to find some sunshine in Spain, Greece or Florida. Beach holidays are seen as the main annual break where people can switch off for a fortnight, sit in the sun and unwind.
However, many forward thinking companies have started to challenge these traditions and open up UK consumers to the idea of beach breaks that can be enjoyed over a shorter period of time.
Perhaps one of the main reasons why such breaks are becoming more accessible are the discount airlines such as Aerlingus (http://www.aerlingus.com ) offering cheap return flights to popular sunshine resorts such as Ibiza, Gran Canaria and Cyprus. Combining these discount flights with the abundance of hotel and accommodation deals that are on offer means that beach breaks are becoming increasingly competitive.
Overall, taking 2-3 days to top up your tan is becoming easier to do for the UK traveller and the appeal of being on a beach in an exotic location a matter of hours after leaving your work is strong – just don’t always leave it to the last minute to book – you will have a lot more to talk about with your hairdresser as a result!
Jumat, 29 Juli 2011
Why is it Vitally Important to Buy a Travel & Medical Insurance when Booking a Trip
The high travel season is at the corner now. People from all walks of life around the world are currently busy searching for the best offers of air and land travel, accommodations, vacation packages to suit their dreams, needs and budgets. Some of them have even started to make their reservations.
Here I would like to emphasize one vitally important thing, which is a must to remember when booking a trip, but ignored by a great number of travelers.
The high travel season is at the corner now. People from all walks of life around the world are currently busy searching for the best offers of air and land travel, accommodations, vacation packages to suit their dreams, needs and budgets. Some of them have even started to make their reservations.
Here I would like to emphasize one vitally important thing, which is a must to remember when booking a trip, but ignored by a great number of travelers.
Much has been written on the importance of having insurance coverage while you are on a trip, away from home. This is an issue that remains somewhat ignored by many travelers. After all, they have been traveling frequently for many years, and nothing happened so far to worry about. So, to buy a travel insurance should not a be a must. It is only an optional precaution!
But, reality urges us to believe traveling anywhere in the world without protection today, is a vital mistake. Regardless of where you are traveling in the world, you must have an insurance coverage to survive any unexpected attacks and disasters, especially after the 9/11 attacks in the U.S.A.
Let's say, you have been planning the trip of your dreams for a long time; you have finally found the opportunity to make your long time dreams of a special trip come true.
You are so excited! You have thought of all the details. You have been actively preparing for this travel; thinking, programming, shopping . . . spending a lot of time, money, and energy! You are proud of yourself that you have finally managed to materialize your dream!
Your trip can really be an unforgettable experience from start to the end, on one condition.
When booking your trip, you should have remembered that, like most exciting events in our lives, travel has some important risks, too. For example, potential medical and/or financial risks associated with travel, can suddenly turn all the excitement and pleasures of the trip to a nightmare.
Your baggage and/or your hand bag with your money, passport, credit cards in, can be stolen leaving you desperate & frustrated in a foreign country.
No one can guarantee that a natural disaster would not happen at the place you would be staying during your trip.
An unexpected accident, injury or illness would suddenly ruin everything. In fact, in the recent years medical costs have increased dramatically, worldwide. How would you be able to pay the emergency medical expenses, expensive hospital bills if you needed an urgent treatment, or surgery and care during your travel when you have lost your money, credit cards, and passport? Isn't it a real nightmare?
In such a frustration, the only thing you would have needed to survive was a reliable medical and travel insurance policy, wasn't it?.
Especially in the light of the horrible threats on and after September 11 terrorist attacks, the war on terror, other ruthless terror attacks in Istanbul, Spain, Egypt and London, frequent flight disruptions and cancellations, airlines' bankruptcies, and more. In addition, travel suppliers such as tour operators and airlines worldwide have made cancellation policies more restrictive.
Therefore, if you have to cancel a trip, it's likely that a big portion of your pre-paid travel expenses will not be refunded by travel suppliers.
Recent SARS and bird flu threats have also been urging travelers and vacationers to seriously consider to buy a travel and medical insurance.
Travel Insurance types and prices defer from one travel insurance provider to another.
You have to review, compare and select the best offers to suit your personal needs.
For instance, some insurance providers do not offer coverage outside the U.S.A. Some companies do not provide emergency medical coverage and care, while others do.
Some airlines do not accept to be held responsible for the acts of God, weather problems, natural disasters, riots and unrests, SARS, bird flu, and similar outbreaks.
The Insurance types you will need on a trip are reviewed below:
Last Minute Cancellation Insurance
With the last minute cancellation and/or interruption insurance you will get coverage on non-refundable deposits you had made when you bought your travel insurance. Read the fine print on the policy carefully when buying this insurance. You should discuss your personal needs with your insurance agent before buying it.
Medical Insurance
This is one of the most important insurance policies you should have. Buying health and medical insurance must be considered as an important part of your travel budget. You can face a health problem or an accident anywhere and anytime during your trip. Be sure your medical and health insurance policy covers illness, accidents, surgeries, hospitalization bills in the countries you will be visiting, emergency medical transportation to your home country. Please remember to have your policies with you when traveling, leaving the copies of your insurance policies with a relative in your home country, in case the policies you have with you are lost.
Comprehensive Insurance Policy
This policy generally covers emergency medical transportation and trip cancellation and interruption, plus other needs you would expect. This insurance costs 5 to 7 percent of the total cost of the trip. You should have it for your safety.
What types of insurance policies do we need for a full protection?
The Essential Insurance Types offered by most providers are Travel, Last Minute, Medical, Health, Life, Hotel, Cruise, Air, Vacations, Luxury, car insurance, sports, and Spa Insurance policies.
Some travel insurance companies also offer affordable coverage for a wide range of winter sports including Ski, Off-Piste and Snowboarding.
We might need not one, but several types of insurance policies according to the general conditions at the destinations we're going to.
If your your kids are going with you, many travel insurance providers let them go free with adults.
Some companies provide policies for students, backpackers, cheap travel, holiday insurance, long stay, international, family travel, single travel, annual travel, annual multi-trips, and more. It's good to know that in this cyber age, you can buy the insurance policies you need online, without even leaving your home.
Most Travel Insurance policies cover Luggage Loss, too.
But you should definitely ask about what's covered and what's not when choosing Travel Insurance Policy to buy. Do ask questions, all questions you might have in mind, until you get all the information you need. It's much better to ask questions when buying insurance than to be sorry later.
How can I find the best insurance type to suit my personal or family needs?
When choosing a travel insurance policy to buy, you should get information on the offers of various insurance providers to compare.
Knowing how time consuming is to search, compare and choose the best travel and medical insurance types and prices to suit your needs and budget, we advice to visit the websites where you can find lists and information about various offers, then compare them, and choose the best ones to suit your needs.
You should keep in mind that buying your travel insurance through travel insurance providers, instead of travel agencies, would save you money in most cases.
In the light of terrorist attacks, unexpected natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, deadly hurricanes, floods, epidemics, accidents, illness, SARS, bird flu, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives at many places around the world, especially in the recent years, every traveler must seriously consider to buy a travel health and a medical insurance, and some other insurance policies if needed, providing a reliable full coverage against both expected and unexpected threats.
Here I would like to emphasize one vitally important thing, which is a must to remember when booking a trip, but ignored by a great number of travelers.
The high travel season is at the corner now. People from all walks of life around the world are currently busy searching for the best offers of air and land travel, accommodations, vacation packages to suit their dreams, needs and budgets. Some of them have even started to make their reservations.
Here I would like to emphasize one vitally important thing, which is a must to remember when booking a trip, but ignored by a great number of travelers.
Much has been written on the importance of having insurance coverage while you are on a trip, away from home. This is an issue that remains somewhat ignored by many travelers. After all, they have been traveling frequently for many years, and nothing happened so far to worry about. So, to buy a travel insurance should not a be a must. It is only an optional precaution!
But, reality urges us to believe traveling anywhere in the world without protection today, is a vital mistake. Regardless of where you are traveling in the world, you must have an insurance coverage to survive any unexpected attacks and disasters, especially after the 9/11 attacks in the U.S.A.
Let's say, you have been planning the trip of your dreams for a long time; you have finally found the opportunity to make your long time dreams of a special trip come true.
You are so excited! You have thought of all the details. You have been actively preparing for this travel; thinking, programming, shopping . . . spending a lot of time, money, and energy! You are proud of yourself that you have finally managed to materialize your dream!
Your trip can really be an unforgettable experience from start to the end, on one condition.
When booking your trip, you should have remembered that, like most exciting events in our lives, travel has some important risks, too. For example, potential medical and/or financial risks associated with travel, can suddenly turn all the excitement and pleasures of the trip to a nightmare.
Your baggage and/or your hand bag with your money, passport, credit cards in, can be stolen leaving you desperate & frustrated in a foreign country.
No one can guarantee that a natural disaster would not happen at the place you would be staying during your trip.
An unexpected accident, injury or illness would suddenly ruin everything. In fact, in the recent years medical costs have increased dramatically, worldwide. How would you be able to pay the emergency medical expenses, expensive hospital bills if you needed an urgent treatment, or surgery and care during your travel when you have lost your money, credit cards, and passport? Isn't it a real nightmare?
In such a frustration, the only thing you would have needed to survive was a reliable medical and travel insurance policy, wasn't it?.
Especially in the light of the horrible threats on and after September 11 terrorist attacks, the war on terror, other ruthless terror attacks in Istanbul, Spain, Egypt and London, frequent flight disruptions and cancellations, airlines' bankruptcies, and more. In addition, travel suppliers such as tour operators and airlines worldwide have made cancellation policies more restrictive.
Therefore, if you have to cancel a trip, it's likely that a big portion of your pre-paid travel expenses will not be refunded by travel suppliers.
Recent SARS and bird flu threats have also been urging travelers and vacationers to seriously consider to buy a travel and medical insurance.
Travel Insurance types and prices defer from one travel insurance provider to another.
You have to review, compare and select the best offers to suit your personal needs.
For instance, some insurance providers do not offer coverage outside the U.S.A. Some companies do not provide emergency medical coverage and care, while others do.
Some airlines do not accept to be held responsible for the acts of God, weather problems, natural disasters, riots and unrests, SARS, bird flu, and similar outbreaks.
The Insurance types you will need on a trip are reviewed below:
Last Minute Cancellation Insurance
With the last minute cancellation and/or interruption insurance you will get coverage on non-refundable deposits you had made when you bought your travel insurance. Read the fine print on the policy carefully when buying this insurance. You should discuss your personal needs with your insurance agent before buying it.
Medical Insurance
This is one of the most important insurance policies you should have. Buying health and medical insurance must be considered as an important part of your travel budget. You can face a health problem or an accident anywhere and anytime during your trip. Be sure your medical and health insurance policy covers illness, accidents, surgeries, hospitalization bills in the countries you will be visiting, emergency medical transportation to your home country. Please remember to have your policies with you when traveling, leaving the copies of your insurance policies with a relative in your home country, in case the policies you have with you are lost.
Comprehensive Insurance Policy
This policy generally covers emergency medical transportation and trip cancellation and interruption, plus other needs you would expect. This insurance costs 5 to 7 percent of the total cost of the trip. You should have it for your safety.
What types of insurance policies do we need for a full protection?
The Essential Insurance Types offered by most providers are Travel, Last Minute, Medical, Health, Life, Hotel, Cruise, Air, Vacations, Luxury, car insurance, sports, and Spa Insurance policies.
Some travel insurance companies also offer affordable coverage for a wide range of winter sports including Ski, Off-Piste and Snowboarding.
We might need not one, but several types of insurance policies according to the general conditions at the destinations we're going to.
If your your kids are going with you, many travel insurance providers let them go free with adults.
Some companies provide policies for students, backpackers, cheap travel, holiday insurance, long stay, international, family travel, single travel, annual travel, annual multi-trips, and more. It's good to know that in this cyber age, you can buy the insurance policies you need online, without even leaving your home.
Most Travel Insurance policies cover Luggage Loss, too.
But you should definitely ask about what's covered and what's not when choosing Travel Insurance Policy to buy. Do ask questions, all questions you might have in mind, until you get all the information you need. It's much better to ask questions when buying insurance than to be sorry later.
How can I find the best insurance type to suit my personal or family needs?
When choosing a travel insurance policy to buy, you should get information on the offers of various insurance providers to compare.
Knowing how time consuming is to search, compare and choose the best travel and medical insurance types and prices to suit your needs and budget, we advice to visit the websites where you can find lists and information about various offers, then compare them, and choose the best ones to suit your needs.
You should keep in mind that buying your travel insurance through travel insurance providers, instead of travel agencies, would save you money in most cases.
In the light of terrorist attacks, unexpected natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, deadly hurricanes, floods, epidemics, accidents, illness, SARS, bird flu, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives at many places around the world, especially in the recent years, every traveler must seriously consider to buy a travel health and a medical insurance, and some other insurance policies if needed, providing a reliable full coverage against both expected and unexpected threats.
Kamis, 28 Juli 2011
Why I Travel Alone (Sometimes)
Some people shy away from traveling alone, a few embrace it. This article looks at the decided advantages of going it alone.
First, traveling solo is the ultimate freedom. The itinerary you set and all the decisions you make are your creations without concern or acquiesence to any other person or group. In other words, no compromises. No arguments, no second-guessing!
Traveling alone is a confidence builder as well. When I was young, at the tender age of 16 I traveled a...
Some people shy away from traveling alone, a few embrace it. This article looks at the decided advantages of going it alone.
First, traveling solo is the ultimate freedom. The itinerary you set and all the decisions you make are your creations without concern or acquiesence to any other person or group. In other words, no compromises. No arguments, no second-guessing!
Traveling alone is a confidence builder as well. When I was young, at the tender age of 16 I traveled alone to work in Biddeford-Saco, Maine. I was over a hundred miles from home and family for the first time in my life. I was just a snipe of a boy and yet I was never terrified. Only a bit lonely. In retrospect, I realize the great value of that small journey (though a big one at the time) for a new found confidence was born in me. This always happens with travel by oneself. You learn you can solve problems, get over the blues, and find hidden treasures all by yourself.
Have you noticed that when you're on your own as a Traveling Pauper, people are more willing to start a conversation with you? You may feel like taking the initiative as well. Up pops an invitation for a meal, a side trip, a stay at someone's home. For some odd reason people keep a slight distance from couples and groups for they seem so self-contained in their association. Whereas the single Pauper looks ready about for a fellow human being that he might engage at any moment in pleasant conversation and simple exhanges about his travels.
Thomas Jefferson once said: "One travels more usefully when alone because he reflects more." It's true: you have abundant time for contemplating, even vegetating, or anything you want. A day long visit to one museum? No problem. A long hike on a trail frought with danger? Not an issue. You don't have to deal with someone else's mood swings, ---nor they with yours.
Here are two more exicting reasons that solo travel apeals to me: I find you learn language faster when you don't have someone else talking to you in your own all the time. It's funny, but we interact, are FORCED to interact much more frequently when we travel alone in a country that doesn't speak our native tongue. And finally, romance. I won't get into specifics, (this is such a tender and private sort of thing) but when you're on your own you're free to meet someone who might turn out to be very important in your life.
The most important factor to consider in your decision to make a trip alone is your own sense of independence. If you find that you have little tolerence for the idiosyncracies of others (and I confess this is my problem) you might be happier traveling alone.
But what if you have an eager spouse, relative, or friend that would feel somehow diminisehd by your decision to take off by yourself? Not to sound indelicate but, that my friend, is your problem. You'll simply have to open up these relationships in your life and solidly communicate the value of traveling alone. I pray your loved ones will be open and understanding enough to allow your wish to become reality.
I have a whole section in my book: 'Travel Cheap Travel Well!"- Confessions Of A Traveling Pauper on this issue of solo travel, as well as the many vagaries and benefits of traveling with a partner or a group.
But in this article, I hope I've at least opened the door, shown you the great benefits of leaving everyone behind as you discover the world INSIDE and outside of yourself.
Why not plan such a trip this year? Tell everyone of your decision or keep it to yourself and, with no explanation given, leave with great joy in your heart for the adventure to come. It's your choice!
As for this Pauper, I've done both and found each a liberating experience each time. In such action I've rediscovered that little boy that traipsed off to far away Maine on his own without permission asked or granted. I rebel still at conformity and the ristriction of others upon me. I wasn't placed on this earth to always bekon to anyone who wished to call.
So, I challenge you to answer your own inner traveling pauper, to pick up your courage and let your heart lead the way to a new adventure and landscape. Be it near or far---go it alone!
First, traveling solo is the ultimate freedom. The itinerary you set and all the decisions you make are your creations without concern or acquiesence to any other person or group. In other words, no compromises. No arguments, no second-guessing!
Traveling alone is a confidence builder as well. When I was young, at the tender age of 16 I traveled a...
Some people shy away from traveling alone, a few embrace it. This article looks at the decided advantages of going it alone.
First, traveling solo is the ultimate freedom. The itinerary you set and all the decisions you make are your creations without concern or acquiesence to any other person or group. In other words, no compromises. No arguments, no second-guessing!
Traveling alone is a confidence builder as well. When I was young, at the tender age of 16 I traveled alone to work in Biddeford-Saco, Maine. I was over a hundred miles from home and family for the first time in my life. I was just a snipe of a boy and yet I was never terrified. Only a bit lonely. In retrospect, I realize the great value of that small journey (though a big one at the time) for a new found confidence was born in me. This always happens with travel by oneself. You learn you can solve problems, get over the blues, and find hidden treasures all by yourself.
Have you noticed that when you're on your own as a Traveling Pauper, people are more willing to start a conversation with you? You may feel like taking the initiative as well. Up pops an invitation for a meal, a side trip, a stay at someone's home. For some odd reason people keep a slight distance from couples and groups for they seem so self-contained in their association. Whereas the single Pauper looks ready about for a fellow human being that he might engage at any moment in pleasant conversation and simple exhanges about his travels.
Thomas Jefferson once said: "One travels more usefully when alone because he reflects more." It's true: you have abundant time for contemplating, even vegetating, or anything you want. A day long visit to one museum? No problem. A long hike on a trail frought with danger? Not an issue. You don't have to deal with someone else's mood swings, ---nor they with yours.
Here are two more exicting reasons that solo travel apeals to me: I find you learn language faster when you don't have someone else talking to you in your own all the time. It's funny, but we interact, are FORCED to interact much more frequently when we travel alone in a country that doesn't speak our native tongue. And finally, romance. I won't get into specifics, (this is such a tender and private sort of thing) but when you're on your own you're free to meet someone who might turn out to be very important in your life.
The most important factor to consider in your decision to make a trip alone is your own sense of independence. If you find that you have little tolerence for the idiosyncracies of others (and I confess this is my problem) you might be happier traveling alone.
But what if you have an eager spouse, relative, or friend that would feel somehow diminisehd by your decision to take off by yourself? Not to sound indelicate but, that my friend, is your problem. You'll simply have to open up these relationships in your life and solidly communicate the value of traveling alone. I pray your loved ones will be open and understanding enough to allow your wish to become reality.
I have a whole section in my book: 'Travel Cheap Travel Well!"- Confessions Of A Traveling Pauper on this issue of solo travel, as well as the many vagaries and benefits of traveling with a partner or a group.
But in this article, I hope I've at least opened the door, shown you the great benefits of leaving everyone behind as you discover the world INSIDE and outside of yourself.
Why not plan such a trip this year? Tell everyone of your decision or keep it to yourself and, with no explanation given, leave with great joy in your heart for the adventure to come. It's your choice!
As for this Pauper, I've done both and found each a liberating experience each time. In such action I've rediscovered that little boy that traipsed off to far away Maine on his own without permission asked or granted. I rebel still at conformity and the ristriction of others upon me. I wasn't placed on this earth to always bekon to anyone who wished to call.
So, I challenge you to answer your own inner traveling pauper, to pick up your courage and let your heart lead the way to a new adventure and landscape. Be it near or far---go it alone!
Rabu, 27 Juli 2011
Why Do People Gamble? Reasons to Gambling Popularity
Here you can read why despite the risk and the bad reputation gambling is so popular worldwide.
Gambling in its various forms has been popular for centuries in different cultures all over the entire world. Whether through the national lottery, in horse racing tracks or in casino table games, people are wagering their money hoping to win big time. Although the number of people who go home with life changing winnings is much smaller than the number of people who have left their money in the casinos, race tracks or bingo halls, the popularity of the pastime has not been reduced through the years.
Despite the low odds of stepping out as winners in most popular forms of gambling is a well known fact, even though gambling suffers from a bad reputation and even when it is illegal, gambling is still one of the most popular pastimes in the world. So, why do people gamble? The most obvious answer would be money, but it will not be a full answer. There are many other reasons that drive people to the nearest gambling facility. Here we will try to offer an answer to this disturbing question.
Luck: the irrational believe in luck is engraved in most of us. These unexplained gut feelings that a special day or a certain number is luckier than the others are sends a lot of people to gamble or even gamble on the same numbers over and over again.
Social Purposes: have you ever wonder how can a group of people beat the pants off someone in a poker game and remain best buddies? You can see it in bingo halls, casino bars and friendly poker games: many people see gambling as an opportunity to make new friends or spend time with old friends in addition to the chance of earning additional money.
Entertainment: many people visit casinos and play their favorite casino games simply because they love it and they are having a great time. In Las Vegas casinos for example, you will meet more recreational gamblers who see gambling as part of their vacation activities than professional gamblers who take gambling as a serious source of income.
Excitement: the act of gambling apparently can give you quite an adrenaline rush. Regardless of the money aspect, the anticipation of the outcome of the game while still not knowing whether it would match your bet is what makes all forms of gambling so thrilling and exciting.
Relaxation: as opposed to the accelerated adrenaline rush described by many gamblers, many gamblers find the gambling experience relaxing. When you think about it, what can be more relaxing than ending a busy work week in the comfortable casino atmosphere, playing your favorite game and served free drinks?
Boredom: whether exciting or relaxing, when the daily lives become an unbearable routine, gambling can serve as a way to escape reality.
Money: in addition to all the reasons mentioned above, gambling allegedly provides an opportunity to can earn unbelievable amounts of money within short time and minimum investment. Even if you are aware to the exact mathematical odds of beating each and every gambling game, if you are an optimist by nature, this slightest chance would nevertheless drive you to a casino, a bookie, a lottery terminal or a bingo hall.
Gambling in its various forms has been popular for centuries in different cultures all over the entire world. Whether through the national lottery, in horse racing tracks or in casino table games, people are wagering their money hoping to win big time. Although the number of people who go home with life changing winnings is much smaller than the number of people who have left their money in the casinos, race tracks or bingo halls, the popularity of the pastime has not been reduced through the years.
Despite the low odds of stepping out as winners in most popular forms of gambling is a well known fact, even though gambling suffers from a bad reputation and even when it is illegal, gambling is still one of the most popular pastimes in the world. So, why do people gamble? The most obvious answer would be money, but it will not be a full answer. There are many other reasons that drive people to the nearest gambling facility. Here we will try to offer an answer to this disturbing question.
Luck: the irrational believe in luck is engraved in most of us. These unexplained gut feelings that a special day or a certain number is luckier than the others are sends a lot of people to gamble or even gamble on the same numbers over and over again.
Social Purposes: have you ever wonder how can a group of people beat the pants off someone in a poker game and remain best buddies? You can see it in bingo halls, casino bars and friendly poker games: many people see gambling as an opportunity to make new friends or spend time with old friends in addition to the chance of earning additional money.
Entertainment: many people visit casinos and play their favorite casino games simply because they love it and they are having a great time. In Las Vegas casinos for example, you will meet more recreational gamblers who see gambling as part of their vacation activities than professional gamblers who take gambling as a serious source of income.
Excitement: the act of gambling apparently can give you quite an adrenaline rush. Regardless of the money aspect, the anticipation of the outcome of the game while still not knowing whether it would match your bet is what makes all forms of gambling so thrilling and exciting.
Relaxation: as opposed to the accelerated adrenaline rush described by many gamblers, many gamblers find the gambling experience relaxing. When you think about it, what can be more relaxing than ending a busy work week in the comfortable casino atmosphere, playing your favorite game and served free drinks?
Boredom: whether exciting or relaxing, when the daily lives become an unbearable routine, gambling can serve as a way to escape reality.
Money: in addition to all the reasons mentioned above, gambling allegedly provides an opportunity to can earn unbelievable amounts of money within short time and minimum investment. Even if you are aware to the exact mathematical odds of beating each and every gambling game, if you are an optimist by nature, this slightest chance would nevertheless drive you to a casino, a bookie, a lottery terminal or a bingo hall.
Selasa, 26 Juli 2011
Why I Love Miami Beach Florida
Among the many attractive reasons for visiting Miami Beach, Florida, are, of course, the excuse now known as the must-attend Spring Break, or the roller-blading beach beauties, or the ideal weather conditions.
But more glamorous reasons, transcending the traveler’s penchant for balmy bay winds and such, is in the reputation a place like Miami Beach, Florida has for featuring popular TV programs and series and hosting films which have a Miami Beach, Florida setting.
The ...
Among the many attractive reasons for visiting Miami Beach, Florida, are, of course, the excuse now known as the must-attend Spring Break, or the roller-blading beach beauties, or the ideal weather conditions.
But more glamorous reasons, transcending the traveler’s penchant for balmy bay winds and such, is in the reputation a place like Miami Beach, Florida has for featuring popular TV programs and series and hosting films which have a Miami Beach, Florida setting.
The first long-standing show of the past is of course the Don Johnson and Phillip Michael Thomas original “Miami Vice” version, which highlighted the Miami Beach, Florida scenes, ocean- and landscapes, and even southern fashions of the seventies and eighties—the open necked t-shirt and sports coat and shoes without socks look that spread through the land as fast as Disco gold chains and polyester did.
But in the same genre, thirty years later, the even more influential Miami Beach, Florida show is CSI: MIAMI. The hang-dog heroic, the neo-Clint Eastwood with an intellect of David Caruso’s character leads the team into the Miami Beach, Florida luxury homes, onto the speedboats and yachts, and through the hippest of clubs of the famous party town. The details are fascinating; the scenes are riveting.
So maybe the crime statistics—implied—are too off-putting for one to think of actually taking vacation at Miami Beach, Florida….
Then the cinematic way to go is by old films and newer non-detective/mystery/crime story themes. That is, maybe one can understand the local offerings, the schools, the libraries, the networking possibilities, the real estate, by watching “Police Academy” or “Bad Santa” or “Wild Things.”
Maybe one can get a sense of the aesthetics, the social climate, and the politics of Miami Beach, Florida in a movie such as the new “Miami Vice” or the older, more non-fictionalized “A Sculpture of Love and Anguish: The Miami Beach Holocaust Memorial.”
Or, maybe one can appreciate the straight up beaches and wind in the palms atmosphere in films like “Always Something Better;” “Black Sunday;” or “The Godfather” or “The Crew.”
Sure, it may be an odd, quirky way to go about looking for real estate in Miami Beach Florida or deciding on the ideal vacation hotel or venue.
Then again, it might be a more realistic impression to closely watch a show than to read a pamphlet or two…and besides, how do you think 3-D advertising got its start?
But more glamorous reasons, transcending the traveler’s penchant for balmy bay winds and such, is in the reputation a place like Miami Beach, Florida has for featuring popular TV programs and series and hosting films which have a Miami Beach, Florida setting.
The ...
Among the many attractive reasons for visiting Miami Beach, Florida, are, of course, the excuse now known as the must-attend Spring Break, or the roller-blading beach beauties, or the ideal weather conditions.
But more glamorous reasons, transcending the traveler’s penchant for balmy bay winds and such, is in the reputation a place like Miami Beach, Florida has for featuring popular TV programs and series and hosting films which have a Miami Beach, Florida setting.
The first long-standing show of the past is of course the Don Johnson and Phillip Michael Thomas original “Miami Vice” version, which highlighted the Miami Beach, Florida scenes, ocean- and landscapes, and even southern fashions of the seventies and eighties—the open necked t-shirt and sports coat and shoes without socks look that spread through the land as fast as Disco gold chains and polyester did.
But in the same genre, thirty years later, the even more influential Miami Beach, Florida show is CSI: MIAMI. The hang-dog heroic, the neo-Clint Eastwood with an intellect of David Caruso’s character leads the team into the Miami Beach, Florida luxury homes, onto the speedboats and yachts, and through the hippest of clubs of the famous party town. The details are fascinating; the scenes are riveting.
So maybe the crime statistics—implied—are too off-putting for one to think of actually taking vacation at Miami Beach, Florida….
Then the cinematic way to go is by old films and newer non-detective/mystery/crime story themes. That is, maybe one can understand the local offerings, the schools, the libraries, the networking possibilities, the real estate, by watching “Police Academy” or “Bad Santa” or “Wild Things.”
Maybe one can get a sense of the aesthetics, the social climate, and the politics of Miami Beach, Florida in a movie such as the new “Miami Vice” or the older, more non-fictionalized “A Sculpture of Love and Anguish: The Miami Beach Holocaust Memorial.”
Or, maybe one can appreciate the straight up beaches and wind in the palms atmosphere in films like “Always Something Better;” “Black Sunday;” or “The Godfather” or “The Crew.”
Sure, it may be an odd, quirky way to go about looking for real estate in Miami Beach Florida or deciding on the ideal vacation hotel or venue.
Then again, it might be a more realistic impression to closely watch a show than to read a pamphlet or two…and besides, how do you think 3-D advertising got its start?
Senin, 25 Juli 2011
Air Travel: Is the Clothing You Wear Important
When it comes to air travel and clothing, we are all different. There are some travelers who are dressed in business suits, others in traditional jeans, and others who wear something as comfortable as possible, such as their pajamas or sweat pants. With the recent increase in airport security and the recent change in air travel rules, there are many individuals who wonder if the clothing they wear to the airport is important.
When it comes to air travel and clothing, we are all different. There are some travelers who are dressed in business suits, others in traditional jeans, and others who wear something as comfortable as possible, such as their pajamas or sweat pants. With the recent increase in airport security and the recent change in air travel rules, there are many individuals who wonder if the clothing they wear to the airport is important. If you are one of those individuals, you can rest assure because, in most cases, it is not.
It seems as if ever since airplanes became the popular way to travel, a focus has been placed on comfort. Regardless of whether or not you will be taking a long flight, you will want to be comfortable. There is nothing worse than wearing an itchy sweater or tight pair of pants up in the air. Unless you bring a chance of clothes with you and place them in your carryon bag, you are out of luck. That is why it is important that you think of what you will be wearing before you leave for the airport. Even if you are traveling for business, you should be able to change in to your business clothes as soon as you arrive at your destination, even in the airport bathrooms.
When it comes to comfort, as previously mentioned, many air travelers make the decision to wear sweat pants and a comfortable top. In addition to being comfortable, you will find, in most cases, that these types of clothes are the best for airport security, especially when entering airport screening checkpoints. This is because most sweat pants are not made with any metal items. Essentially, this means that you should be able to enter the security checkpoint and leave it quicker than most other travelers, such as the travelers who are decked out in accessories.
When it comes to clothing accessories, you will find that a number of different items set off airport metal detectors. That is why most airport security officers request that you remove all of your jewelry. Once your jewelry is removed, you will need to place it in a small bin, which will be scanned right along with your carryon luggage. Whether you have rings or a necklace, you are advised to remove them, if you can. For your convenience, you can leave your earrings on. If by chance, you earrings set the metal detectors off, you will likely be pulled a side and airport security should easily be able to tell whether or not your earring were what set off the alarms.
In addition to jewelry, you will find that your belt may even set off an airport’s metal detector. For that reason, a large number of airports have requested that you remove your belts before entering the metal detectors. Since a large number of travelers wear belts, this is done to help speed up the process of checking each and every passenger. If you do not enjoy removing some of your jewelry or removing your belt, it is advised that you leave those items at home.
Recently, a number of new air travel rules have been implemented. One of those rules requires that all passengers remove their shoes. Your shoes, once removed, will be scanned by an x-ray machine, right along with the rest of your carryon luggage. In recent years, only random passengers were asked to remove their shoes, but now everyone is. For that reason, you will to wear simple shoes that you can easily remove and put back on.
Another air travel rule, recently implemented, is the ban of liquids. This means that adults are no longer allowed to bring a drink onboard, even bottle water. It also means that you are prohibited from placing liquid beauty supplies in your carryon luggage. One concern, made by many women is the allowance of gel or water filled bras. Currently, you are allowed to wear these types of bras onboard an airplane. Honestly, unless you mention it to airport security, there is a good chance that they would never even know.
Since there are really no rules or restrictions on the clothing that you can wear while flying the great skies, you need to choose for yourself. Whether you want to be fashionable or comfortable, it is all up to you.
When it comes to air travel and clothing, we are all different. There are some travelers who are dressed in business suits, others in traditional jeans, and others who wear something as comfortable as possible, such as their pajamas or sweat pants. With the recent increase in airport security and the recent change in air travel rules, there are many individuals who wonder if the clothing they wear to the airport is important. If you are one of those individuals, you can rest assure because, in most cases, it is not.
It seems as if ever since airplanes became the popular way to travel, a focus has been placed on comfort. Regardless of whether or not you will be taking a long flight, you will want to be comfortable. There is nothing worse than wearing an itchy sweater or tight pair of pants up in the air. Unless you bring a chance of clothes with you and place them in your carryon bag, you are out of luck. That is why it is important that you think of what you will be wearing before you leave for the airport. Even if you are traveling for business, you should be able to change in to your business clothes as soon as you arrive at your destination, even in the airport bathrooms.
When it comes to comfort, as previously mentioned, many air travelers make the decision to wear sweat pants and a comfortable top. In addition to being comfortable, you will find, in most cases, that these types of clothes are the best for airport security, especially when entering airport screening checkpoints. This is because most sweat pants are not made with any metal items. Essentially, this means that you should be able to enter the security checkpoint and leave it quicker than most other travelers, such as the travelers who are decked out in accessories.
When it comes to clothing accessories, you will find that a number of different items set off airport metal detectors. That is why most airport security officers request that you remove all of your jewelry. Once your jewelry is removed, you will need to place it in a small bin, which will be scanned right along with your carryon luggage. Whether you have rings or a necklace, you are advised to remove them, if you can. For your convenience, you can leave your earrings on. If by chance, you earrings set the metal detectors off, you will likely be pulled a side and airport security should easily be able to tell whether or not your earring were what set off the alarms.
In addition to jewelry, you will find that your belt may even set off an airport’s metal detector. For that reason, a large number of airports have requested that you remove your belts before entering the metal detectors. Since a large number of travelers wear belts, this is done to help speed up the process of checking each and every passenger. If you do not enjoy removing some of your jewelry or removing your belt, it is advised that you leave those items at home.
Recently, a number of new air travel rules have been implemented. One of those rules requires that all passengers remove their shoes. Your shoes, once removed, will be scanned by an x-ray machine, right along with the rest of your carryon luggage. In recent years, only random passengers were asked to remove their shoes, but now everyone is. For that reason, you will to wear simple shoes that you can easily remove and put back on.
Another air travel rule, recently implemented, is the ban of liquids. This means that adults are no longer allowed to bring a drink onboard, even bottle water. It also means that you are prohibited from placing liquid beauty supplies in your carryon luggage. One concern, made by many women is the allowance of gel or water filled bras. Currently, you are allowed to wear these types of bras onboard an airplane. Honestly, unless you mention it to airport security, there is a good chance that they would never even know.
Since there are really no rules or restrictions on the clothing that you can wear while flying the great skies, you need to choose for yourself. Whether you want to be fashionable or comfortable, it is all up to you.
Sabtu, 23 Juli 2011
African Safari Is Affordable For You
An African Safari is the vacation of a lifetime. Make sure you choose your tour company wisely as there is a lot of difference between tour operators. Looking for great value? Ask a travel agent to keep an eye out for African Safari special offers to find exclusive tours at unbeatable prices. Or if you have some extra time, surf the internet for a few weeks before booking so that you get a good idea of the tours being offered. Safaris, aside from the airfare, are not much mor...
An African Safari is the vacation of a lifetime. Make sure you choose your tour company wisely as there is a lot of difference between tour operators. Looking for great value? Ask a travel agent to keep an eye out for African Safari special offers to find exclusive tours at unbeatable prices. Or if you have some extra time, surf the internet for a few weeks before booking so that you get a good idea of the tours being offered. Safaris, aside from the airfare, are not much more expensive than other guided tours unless you take the luxury option, and it's bound to be an unforgettable vacation.
Safaris to the Kruger Park, which is roughly the size of a small country, are always popular. This area of Africa has seen human habitation for roughly 40,000 years. Indigenous populations coexisted in balance with the local game, but after Europeans arrived and began to hunt for trophies, game populations declined drastically due to the uncontrolled slaughter despite hunting laws introduced to South Africa in 1858.
The area first became protected in 1989, just before the Boer War, after a campaign by Paul Kruger to establish the Sabi game reserve between the Sabi and Crocodile rivers. After the Boer War ended in 1902, the James Stevenson-Hamilton was appointed warden of the Sabi Game Reserve, and formal protection and rebuilding of game stocks was instituted. Stevenson-Hamilton became determined to protect the area permanently by making it a national park. After much lobbying, he succeeded. The national parks act was passed in 1926 and the Sabi and Singwitsi reserves (by then the Transvaal Game Reserve) became the Kruger National Park.
It took a few years before visitors discovered the park. In 1927, a total of 3 tourist vehicles ventured into the park, bringing in an income of 3 pounds. By 1930, there were 900 vehicles roaming on the 500 kilometres of new roads in the park, and staying in the huts and tents that could accommodate up to 700 people. Stevenson-Hamilton was an outdoorsman who disapproved of luxurious facilities, and he attempted to maintain a rustic atmosphere. However, when he left, accommodations were upgraded and the park became a reknowned destination for tourists from all around the world.
By 1955, visitors flocked to the park in numbers exceeded 10,000 a year, prompting extensive development of roads and tourist services along with the fencing of the park boundaries. During peak holiday season, such as Christmas, Easter and July, the park can be quite crowded. There is now a daily limit to number of visitors, so if you must travel in peak season, reserve well ahead of time.
Adjacent to the Kruger on its Western Boundary are a number of private game reserves, including the Sabi Sand, Timbavati and Manyeleti. Kruger Park Safaris offer a huge variety and density of wildlife, as well as a wide range of safari experiences. You'll never be able to see the whole park in just one tour. Safaris include everything from tented walking safaris and self-driving safaris to ultra-luxurious fly-in safaris. Kruger Park holds hundreds of lodges for different tastes and budgets.
The Kruger Park is a year-round destination, but there is a seasonal difference in climate. The dry season (winter) is usually between May and August, although rainfall starts declining in April and is still fairly low in September and October. This is the best season to see game, as permanent waterholes attract animals, the vegetation becomes thinned out, and trees have fewer leaves to obstruct the view. Winter has warm days and chilly nights. The average maximum temperatures is around 24 degrees in winter, and the average minimum is about 8 or 9 degrees, although it can drop as far as 5 degrees. It is important to bring along a warm jacket for early morning and evening game tours.
The wet season (summer), is from November to March. This is when the Kruger Park receives most of its rainfall, usually in dramatic afternoon thundershowers. The weather is hot and balmy, with Average maximum temperatures of about 30 degrees Celcius, with an average minimum of 20 degrees. The summer grass and foliage becomes lush and green, and while this makes for beautiful scenery, it can also make game viewing difficult. Also, animals no longer concentrate around waterholes because there are now widespread sources of water.
However, for birdwatchers, the wet season is the ideal time to visit the Kruger Park, as this is when the migrating birds arrive, and when all the local birds are at their most active. The Makuleke region of the park is renowned for its many species of birds, and visitors may see exotic specimens such as Scarlet Chested Sunbirds, Broadbilled Rollers, Redheaded Weavers, Wattle-eyed Flycatchers and owls, such as the Pels Fishing Owl, the Scops, Whitefaced, Pearl-Spotted and Giant Eagle Owls.
The wet season is also the best time to see baby animals, as most animals calve at the beginning of the rainy season to take advantage of the lush grazing grounds.
Luxury resorts in and around the Kruger Park are not cheap, but offer services such as massages, reflexology and room service for guests who like to remain within the bounds of civilization while still having an opportunity to take day tours and see game.
Overland Safaris in a tour group are the most economical way to see Kruger Park. These group tours are a great way to meet like-minded eco-tourists and enjoy a genuine outdoor experience. Both camping and hotel options are available.
The bush of the Kruger Park can also be experienced on hiking tours. These walks are conducted in parts of the region not accessible to vehicles, including the spectacular Lanner Gorge.
An African Safari is the vacation of a lifetime. Make sure you choose your tour company wisely as there is a lot of difference between tour operators. Looking for great value? Ask a travel agent to keep an eye out for African Safari special offers to find exclusive tours at unbeatable prices. Or if you have some extra time, surf the internet for a few weeks before booking so that you get a good idea of the tours being offered. Safaris, aside from the airfare, are not much more expensive than other guided tours unless you take the luxury option, and it's bound to be an unforgettable vacation.
Safaris to the Kruger Park, which is roughly the size of a small country, are always popular. This area of Africa has seen human habitation for roughly 40,000 years. Indigenous populations coexisted in balance with the local game, but after Europeans arrived and began to hunt for trophies, game populations declined drastically due to the uncontrolled slaughter despite hunting laws introduced to South Africa in 1858.
The area first became protected in 1989, just before the Boer War, after a campaign by Paul Kruger to establish the Sabi game reserve between the Sabi and Crocodile rivers. After the Boer War ended in 1902, the James Stevenson-Hamilton was appointed warden of the Sabi Game Reserve, and formal protection and rebuilding of game stocks was instituted. Stevenson-Hamilton became determined to protect the area permanently by making it a national park. After much lobbying, he succeeded. The national parks act was passed in 1926 and the Sabi and Singwitsi reserves (by then the Transvaal Game Reserve) became the Kruger National Park.
It took a few years before visitors discovered the park. In 1927, a total of 3 tourist vehicles ventured into the park, bringing in an income of 3 pounds. By 1930, there were 900 vehicles roaming on the 500 kilometres of new roads in the park, and staying in the huts and tents that could accommodate up to 700 people. Stevenson-Hamilton was an outdoorsman who disapproved of luxurious facilities, and he attempted to maintain a rustic atmosphere. However, when he left, accommodations were upgraded and the park became a reknowned destination for tourists from all around the world.
By 1955, visitors flocked to the park in numbers exceeded 10,000 a year, prompting extensive development of roads and tourist services along with the fencing of the park boundaries. During peak holiday season, such as Christmas, Easter and July, the park can be quite crowded. There is now a daily limit to number of visitors, so if you must travel in peak season, reserve well ahead of time.
Adjacent to the Kruger on its Western Boundary are a number of private game reserves, including the Sabi Sand, Timbavati and Manyeleti. Kruger Park Safaris offer a huge variety and density of wildlife, as well as a wide range of safari experiences. You'll never be able to see the whole park in just one tour. Safaris include everything from tented walking safaris and self-driving safaris to ultra-luxurious fly-in safaris. Kruger Park holds hundreds of lodges for different tastes and budgets.
The Kruger Park is a year-round destination, but there is a seasonal difference in climate. The dry season (winter) is usually between May and August, although rainfall starts declining in April and is still fairly low in September and October. This is the best season to see game, as permanent waterholes attract animals, the vegetation becomes thinned out, and trees have fewer leaves to obstruct the view. Winter has warm days and chilly nights. The average maximum temperatures is around 24 degrees in winter, and the average minimum is about 8 or 9 degrees, although it can drop as far as 5 degrees. It is important to bring along a warm jacket for early morning and evening game tours.
The wet season (summer), is from November to March. This is when the Kruger Park receives most of its rainfall, usually in dramatic afternoon thundershowers. The weather is hot and balmy, with Average maximum temperatures of about 30 degrees Celcius, with an average minimum of 20 degrees. The summer grass and foliage becomes lush and green, and while this makes for beautiful scenery, it can also make game viewing difficult. Also, animals no longer concentrate around waterholes because there are now widespread sources of water.
However, for birdwatchers, the wet season is the ideal time to visit the Kruger Park, as this is when the migrating birds arrive, and when all the local birds are at their most active. The Makuleke region of the park is renowned for its many species of birds, and visitors may see exotic specimens such as Scarlet Chested Sunbirds, Broadbilled Rollers, Redheaded Weavers, Wattle-eyed Flycatchers and owls, such as the Pels Fishing Owl, the Scops, Whitefaced, Pearl-Spotted and Giant Eagle Owls.
The wet season is also the best time to see baby animals, as most animals calve at the beginning of the rainy season to take advantage of the lush grazing grounds.
Luxury resorts in and around the Kruger Park are not cheap, but offer services such as massages, reflexology and room service for guests who like to remain within the bounds of civilization while still having an opportunity to take day tours and see game.
Overland Safaris in a tour group are the most economical way to see Kruger Park. These group tours are a great way to meet like-minded eco-tourists and enjoy a genuine outdoor experience. Both camping and hotel options are available.
The bush of the Kruger Park can also be experienced on hiking tours. These walks are conducted in parts of the region not accessible to vehicles, including the spectacular Lanner Gorge.
Jumat, 22 Juli 2011
Adventure Travel On Horseback
When you think of “adventure travel,” what crosses your mind?
• Hiking?
• White water rafting?
• Scuba diving?
• Something as sedentary as a cruise ship or land rover safari?
Those ideas lose their “adventure” status when you compare them to galloping on a horse in Africa with a zebra and wildebeest racing along side you, or quietly observing the elephant and giraffe.
How can a traveler visit the remote parts of the world’s most beautiful and interesting places wh...
When you think of “adventure travel,” what crosses your mind?
• Hiking?
• White water rafting?
• Scuba diving?
• Something as sedentary as a cruise ship or land rover safari?
Those ideas lose their “adventure” status when you compare them to galloping on a horse in Africa with a zebra and wildebeest racing along side you, or quietly observing the elephant and giraffe.
How can a traveler visit the remote parts of the world’s most beautiful and interesting places while...
• Practicing a fascinating sport
• Avoiding polluting
• Keeping in harmony with history and nature
• Being free to explore exotic locations
• Making friends in remote places, and
• Sharing the experience with a willing animal?
Have you ever considered the tremendous advantages of adventure travel on horseback? A horse can take you to beautiful and remote places which are difficult to reach in any other way. At the same time, you can practice a challenging sport which has been a favorite of mankind for millennia.
Destinations like Africa, Asia, Europe and South America offer a wonderful variety of adventure tours on horseback. Though comparatively little known to Americans, the British and particularly the French have highly developed the riding tour concept in many parts of the world. In many locations in the United States rights-of-way for horses have been lost, but many still exist in other countries.
Horses and horseback riding are deeply woven into the culture and history of most cultures from Argentina to Ireland. This is how our ancestors traveled and for those with a sense of history there is no more appropriate way to go. If you arrive in a foreign place on horseback, you will most likely be enthusiastically greeted by locals with waves and smiles which greatly facilitate meaningful contacts. Those who arrive by bus, on foot or on a bicycle are usually ignored. Horses are a great introduction and ice breaker almost anywhere.
If you seek a wilderness adventure, then horses are the way to go unless you want to walk and carry your equipment. Riding tours can take you from inn to inn, castle to castle, palace to palace or from one comfortable camp to another. Costs are very reasonably compared to biking or bus trips.
Horseback riding adventures vary widely in the skill and experience required to handle them safely. Most of these tours move out at all paces and include some good gallops so that one can cover 15 to 35 miles in a day. Beginners need several days of instruction before attempting even an easy trip, but those who are reasonably fit, not too overweight and have open minds can catch on very quickly. A week of intensive riding with good instruction can easily prepare most people for the less demanding adventures.
One of the enormous advantages of travel on horseback is that you are sharing the adventure with a willing animal who is also interested in the sights and sounds and who loves a brisk gallop on a beach or open plain as much as you do. A day in the saddle is also great exercise and riding is an excellent way to keep fit while having fun. It is far more interesting and satisfying than sitting confined in a bus or land rover all day which really isn’t adventure travel at all. Another dividend is the keen appetite you develop after a day in the saddle for the delicious food you will be served.
On an African ride, a good horse can outdistance an irate Cape buffalo or elephant and keep you safe. Comfortable camps are set up for you each night, the food is excellent and the service superb. Or try a horseback tour visiting the castles of the Loire Valley and ride into the courtyards on your horse like a knight of old. You can gallop along forest tracks where the French aristocracy once chased the wild stag. There is a broad spectrum of possibilities available for horseback riding vacations.
If it appeals to you to travel in harmony with nature without using polluting, noisy machines or an unresponsive bicycle, then you should look into horseback riding tours.
Copyright 2005 Bayard Fox and Equitours, Ltd.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivs 2.5 License. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.5/
• Hiking?
• White water rafting?
• Scuba diving?
• Something as sedentary as a cruise ship or land rover safari?
Those ideas lose their “adventure” status when you compare them to galloping on a horse in Africa with a zebra and wildebeest racing along side you, or quietly observing the elephant and giraffe.
How can a traveler visit the remote parts of the world’s most beautiful and interesting places wh...
When you think of “adventure travel,” what crosses your mind?
• Hiking?
• White water rafting?
• Scuba diving?
• Something as sedentary as a cruise ship or land rover safari?
Those ideas lose their “adventure” status when you compare them to galloping on a horse in Africa with a zebra and wildebeest racing along side you, or quietly observing the elephant and giraffe.
How can a traveler visit the remote parts of the world’s most beautiful and interesting places while...
• Practicing a fascinating sport
• Avoiding polluting
• Keeping in harmony with history and nature
• Being free to explore exotic locations
• Making friends in remote places, and
• Sharing the experience with a willing animal?
Have you ever considered the tremendous advantages of adventure travel on horseback? A horse can take you to beautiful and remote places which are difficult to reach in any other way. At the same time, you can practice a challenging sport which has been a favorite of mankind for millennia.
Destinations like Africa, Asia, Europe and South America offer a wonderful variety of adventure tours on horseback. Though comparatively little known to Americans, the British and particularly the French have highly developed the riding tour concept in many parts of the world. In many locations in the United States rights-of-way for horses have been lost, but many still exist in other countries.
Horses and horseback riding are deeply woven into the culture and history of most cultures from Argentina to Ireland. This is how our ancestors traveled and for those with a sense of history there is no more appropriate way to go. If you arrive in a foreign place on horseback, you will most likely be enthusiastically greeted by locals with waves and smiles which greatly facilitate meaningful contacts. Those who arrive by bus, on foot or on a bicycle are usually ignored. Horses are a great introduction and ice breaker almost anywhere.
If you seek a wilderness adventure, then horses are the way to go unless you want to walk and carry your equipment. Riding tours can take you from inn to inn, castle to castle, palace to palace or from one comfortable camp to another. Costs are very reasonably compared to biking or bus trips.
Horseback riding adventures vary widely in the skill and experience required to handle them safely. Most of these tours move out at all paces and include some good gallops so that one can cover 15 to 35 miles in a day. Beginners need several days of instruction before attempting even an easy trip, but those who are reasonably fit, not too overweight and have open minds can catch on very quickly. A week of intensive riding with good instruction can easily prepare most people for the less demanding adventures.
One of the enormous advantages of travel on horseback is that you are sharing the adventure with a willing animal who is also interested in the sights and sounds and who loves a brisk gallop on a beach or open plain as much as you do. A day in the saddle is also great exercise and riding is an excellent way to keep fit while having fun. It is far more interesting and satisfying than sitting confined in a bus or land rover all day which really isn’t adventure travel at all. Another dividend is the keen appetite you develop after a day in the saddle for the delicious food you will be served.
On an African ride, a good horse can outdistance an irate Cape buffalo or elephant and keep you safe. Comfortable camps are set up for you each night, the food is excellent and the service superb. Or try a horseback tour visiting the castles of the Loire Valley and ride into the courtyards on your horse like a knight of old. You can gallop along forest tracks where the French aristocracy once chased the wild stag. There is a broad spectrum of possibilities available for horseback riding vacations.
If it appeals to you to travel in harmony with nature without using polluting, noisy machines or an unresponsive bicycle, then you should look into horseback riding tours.
Copyright 2005 Bayard Fox and Equitours, Ltd.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivs 2.5 License. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/2.5/
Kamis, 21 Juli 2011
Adventure Travel - Close And Cheap
Ready for adventure travel, but you don't have the time or money? Here are some suggestions for small adventures near home.
Adventure travel is becoming more popular all the time. It can be very expensive, though, and even a bit too dangerous for some of us. It doesn't have to either, though. Here are a few ideas for small adventures you can afford. They are followed by a definition of adventure that will help you add your own to the list.
Try treasure hunting. Rent or buy a metal detector and spend a relaxing but interesting weekend finding coins, jewelry and who-knows-what in the sand at the beach. No beach nearby? Look up the historical records for your town, to see where old picnic grounds were. Treasure hunters regularly find old coins at places like these.
Take climbing lessons. Whether this is on Mount Ranier in Washington, or Mount Washington in New Hampshire, it's sure to be an adventure. At least it will be more exciting than my trip up a local sledding hill with my ice-axe and crampons.
Travel form monastery to monastery. Make it a spiritual adventure or just relax. Most monasteries take in visitors, and usually have reasonably priced accommodations. The Buddhist ones in particular are most often in beautiful places.
Do a hot springs tour. This is for those who live in the west. Get a guide to hot springs or copy directions off the internet. Bring swimming suits (optional at some, for the more adventurous), towels and a cooler full of refreshments. Want more adventure? Seek out the ones that you have to hike into the wilderness to find.
The Cheapest Adventure Travel
Find and summit the highest peak in your state. This might be less-than-adventurous in some states, but it will at least be an excuse to get outside and get some good exercise. Be sure to bring your camera for the summit shot. You might try the highest point in the next state over for your next adventure trip.
Investigate and find the nearest hidden swimming holes. The best ones are ones that require a hike to get to. Watch for people heading down a trail with swimsuits and a cooler. Nobody hikes in swimsuit and drags a cooler into the woods, unless there is water involved.
Play Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn. Locate the nearest river that is large enough and has some public forest. Then build a raft from dead trees and float downstream for a day. We usually started by hiking upstream for an hour or more, so we could float back to the car.
A vagabond trip. Pack enough clothing and snacks for several days and just start driving, with no destination in mind. Who knows where you'll end up, and what you'll discover. Pack a tent or camp in your car to keep it really affordable.
That last one is a classic adventure trip in my book. Adventure is any activity you engage in that is new to you and doesn't have a predictable outcome. It doesn't need to be dangerous to be interesting and fun, and could even include a trip to the nearest large city for a weekend tour of the nightclubs. Of course, depending on the places you choose, this could be fairly dangerous adventure travel.
Adventure travel is becoming more popular all the time. It can be very expensive, though, and even a bit too dangerous for some of us. It doesn't have to either, though. Here are a few ideas for small adventures you can afford. They are followed by a definition of adventure that will help you add your own to the list.
Try treasure hunting. Rent or buy a metal detector and spend a relaxing but interesting weekend finding coins, jewelry and who-knows-what in the sand at the beach. No beach nearby? Look up the historical records for your town, to see where old picnic grounds were. Treasure hunters regularly find old coins at places like these.
Take climbing lessons. Whether this is on Mount Ranier in Washington, or Mount Washington in New Hampshire, it's sure to be an adventure. At least it will be more exciting than my trip up a local sledding hill with my ice-axe and crampons.
Travel form monastery to monastery. Make it a spiritual adventure or just relax. Most monasteries take in visitors, and usually have reasonably priced accommodations. The Buddhist ones in particular are most often in beautiful places.
Do a hot springs tour. This is for those who live in the west. Get a guide to hot springs or copy directions off the internet. Bring swimming suits (optional at some, for the more adventurous), towels and a cooler full of refreshments. Want more adventure? Seek out the ones that you have to hike into the wilderness to find.
The Cheapest Adventure Travel
Find and summit the highest peak in your state. This might be less-than-adventurous in some states, but it will at least be an excuse to get outside and get some good exercise. Be sure to bring your camera for the summit shot. You might try the highest point in the next state over for your next adventure trip.
Investigate and find the nearest hidden swimming holes. The best ones are ones that require a hike to get to. Watch for people heading down a trail with swimsuits and a cooler. Nobody hikes in swimsuit and drags a cooler into the woods, unless there is water involved.
Play Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn. Locate the nearest river that is large enough and has some public forest. Then build a raft from dead trees and float downstream for a day. We usually started by hiking upstream for an hour or more, so we could float back to the car.
A vagabond trip. Pack enough clothing and snacks for several days and just start driving, with no destination in mind. Who knows where you'll end up, and what you'll discover. Pack a tent or camp in your car to keep it really affordable.
That last one is a classic adventure trip in my book. Adventure is any activity you engage in that is new to you and doesn't have a predictable outcome. It doesn't need to be dangerous to be interesting and fun, and could even include a trip to the nearest large city for a weekend tour of the nightclubs. Of course, depending on the places you choose, this could be fairly dangerous adventure travel.
Rabu, 20 Juli 2011
Adventure Travel : The Most Exhilarating "Must Do" Trips
Ever since the man could walk, he traveled. At first, we traveled to escape harsh climate and find food, but as we evolved, we started traveling for fun. Thus appeared travel destinations and travel guides. As time passed, more and more people started traveling to various locations, for the landscape, traditions and thrills.
Here are a few travel locations that are sure to give you your thrills and kicks, somewhat like a top five, I guess, but don’t trust me - go check the...
Ever since the man could walk, he traveled. At first, we traveled to escape harsh climate and find food, but as we evolved, we started traveling for fun. Thus appeared travel destinations and travel guides. As time passed, more and more people started traveling to various locations, for the landscape, traditions and thrills.
Here are a few travel locations that are sure to give you your thrills and kicks, somewhat like a top five, I guess, but don’t trust me - go check them out yourself out!
1. Himalaya
By far the greatest mountain range in the world, the Himalaya have captured the imagination of philosophers, mystics, mountaineers and empire builders from the earliest ancestors of contemporary Hindus and Buddhists to the present day. Mount Kailash, home of the greatest of the gods, and Meru, centre of the Hindu and Buddhist universe, rise from their surrounding ridges of the central Himalaya. From the high slopes to the foothills, people have carved out an often-meager existence in the harshest of environments with determination, subtlety and imagination enriched by powerful cultural identities. Tribal peoples living often at high altitudes have made their living from their tough environment through trade over the highest passes in the world, while farmers have developed agriculture on the man-made terraces of the warmer, lower-lying valleys and hills of the southern ranges. Although the mountain environment gives a common character to the whole region, each hamlet has its own identity. The villages of the arid high-altitude plateau of Ladakh could scarcely be more different from the homesteads of the monsoon forests of Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Kilimanjaro Climb
Just three degrees south of the Equator is the 5,895m (19,340ft) high, permanently snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. It offers one of the best opportunities in the world to climb a peak at high altitude without needing technical climbing ability. Any normally fit, healthy person prepared for some physical exertion and exercise should be able to complete the ascent to Uhuru Peak, which involves approximately 70 kilometers of walking in total, and no technical climbing.
3. Torres Del Paine in Patagonia, Chile
Near the fjord area of Tierra Del Fuego and the Beagle Channel one may visit the famous Torres Del Paine National Park on the southern edge of the Patagonia Ice Cap. The area is easy to get to from Punta Arenas with transportation of buses, taxis and minibuses. It is possibly the most famous national park in South America with 60,000 visitors last season. It is some 100 km north of Puerto Natales. A 2422 sq. km park was given the World Heritage status in 1978 by UNESCO.
It gets it's name from three wonderful and very prominent polished columns of pink granite, the Towers of Paine (Torres Del Paine).
Here you may go backpacking and trekking, or you can join programs to do the mountain climbing as well. Nandu and Guanaco (Ostrich and Alpaca like animals) are frequently seen in the park refuge. There is a broad diversity of fauna y flora. Backpackers should have experience with overnight trips in rough country; those who desire to make ascents should have mountaineering ice and snow climbing experience.
4. Amboseli Safari
Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s most popular parks because of the stunning view it displays of nearby Mount Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest freestanding mountain. When you go on your Amboseli Safari, be sure to get the famous photograph of elephants with the unforgettable views of Kilimanjaro in the background!
Streams from Kilimanjaro surface in the centre of Amboseli, creating swamps that attract and support a rich diversity of wild animals and birdlife.
As Amboseli is easily accessible, it forms a popular part of many of our safari itineraries.
Amboseli is one of the smaller game parks in Kenya and the vegetation ensures that the animals are easy to spot. Lions can easily be found and can occasionally be watched stalking their prey.
Buffalo, zebra, giraffe, gazelle and other plains game are plentiful in the park and hippos live in the open waters and swamp channels. The elephants found here are surprisingly relaxed around safari vehicles; they were largely unaffected by ivory poaching and have some of the largest tusks.
Nothing beats the experience of adventure travel, so pack up your rucksack and give it a go!
Here are a few travel locations that are sure to give you your thrills and kicks, somewhat like a top five, I guess, but don’t trust me - go check the...
Ever since the man could walk, he traveled. At first, we traveled to escape harsh climate and find food, but as we evolved, we started traveling for fun. Thus appeared travel destinations and travel guides. As time passed, more and more people started traveling to various locations, for the landscape, traditions and thrills.
Here are a few travel locations that are sure to give you your thrills and kicks, somewhat like a top five, I guess, but don’t trust me - go check them out yourself out!
1. Himalaya
By far the greatest mountain range in the world, the Himalaya have captured the imagination of philosophers, mystics, mountaineers and empire builders from the earliest ancestors of contemporary Hindus and Buddhists to the present day. Mount Kailash, home of the greatest of the gods, and Meru, centre of the Hindu and Buddhist universe, rise from their surrounding ridges of the central Himalaya. From the high slopes to the foothills, people have carved out an often-meager existence in the harshest of environments with determination, subtlety and imagination enriched by powerful cultural identities. Tribal peoples living often at high altitudes have made their living from their tough environment through trade over the highest passes in the world, while farmers have developed agriculture on the man-made terraces of the warmer, lower-lying valleys and hills of the southern ranges. Although the mountain environment gives a common character to the whole region, each hamlet has its own identity. The villages of the arid high-altitude plateau of Ladakh could scarcely be more different from the homesteads of the monsoon forests of Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Kilimanjaro Climb
Just three degrees south of the Equator is the 5,895m (19,340ft) high, permanently snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. It offers one of the best opportunities in the world to climb a peak at high altitude without needing technical climbing ability. Any normally fit, healthy person prepared for some physical exertion and exercise should be able to complete the ascent to Uhuru Peak, which involves approximately 70 kilometers of walking in total, and no technical climbing.
3. Torres Del Paine in Patagonia, Chile
Near the fjord area of Tierra Del Fuego and the Beagle Channel one may visit the famous Torres Del Paine National Park on the southern edge of the Patagonia Ice Cap. The area is easy to get to from Punta Arenas with transportation of buses, taxis and minibuses. It is possibly the most famous national park in South America with 60,000 visitors last season. It is some 100 km north of Puerto Natales. A 2422 sq. km park was given the World Heritage status in 1978 by UNESCO.
It gets it's name from three wonderful and very prominent polished columns of pink granite, the Towers of Paine (Torres Del Paine).
Here you may go backpacking and trekking, or you can join programs to do the mountain climbing as well. Nandu and Guanaco (Ostrich and Alpaca like animals) are frequently seen in the park refuge. There is a broad diversity of fauna y flora. Backpackers should have experience with overnight trips in rough country; those who desire to make ascents should have mountaineering ice and snow climbing experience.
4. Amboseli Safari
Amboseli National Park is one of Kenya’s most popular parks because of the stunning view it displays of nearby Mount Kilimanjaro, the world’s tallest freestanding mountain. When you go on your Amboseli Safari, be sure to get the famous photograph of elephants with the unforgettable views of Kilimanjaro in the background!
Streams from Kilimanjaro surface in the centre of Amboseli, creating swamps that attract and support a rich diversity of wild animals and birdlife.
As Amboseli is easily accessible, it forms a popular part of many of our safari itineraries.
Amboseli is one of the smaller game parks in Kenya and the vegetation ensures that the animals are easy to spot. Lions can easily be found and can occasionally be watched stalking their prey.
Buffalo, zebra, giraffe, gazelle and other plains game are plentiful in the park and hippos live in the open waters and swamp channels. The elephants found here are surprisingly relaxed around safari vehicles; they were largely unaffected by ivory poaching and have some of the largest tusks.
Nothing beats the experience of adventure travel, so pack up your rucksack and give it a go!
Selasa, 19 Juli 2011
Adventure Croatia Holidays - between the Alps and Adriatic Sea
Magical adventures in Croatia with hundreds of sparkling waterfalls and more than a thousand islands set amid the blue of the sea, green mountain rivers and streams, virgin canyons, wild karst and mellow plains.
Magical adventures in Croatia with hundreds of sparkling waterfalls and more than a thousand islands set amid the blue of the sea, green mountain rivers and streams, virgin canyons, wild karst and mellow plains.
Nestling between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, in the south-eastern part of the European continent, Croatia jealously protects eight national parks, ten nature parks and a whole range of special reserves, including plant life, animals, geological formations, hydrological phenomena, all within a small but rich area that can be travelled by car from one end to another in a single day.
Many paths run between rivers, mountain peaks, tiny island ports and beaches, leading to Illyrian hill forts, to Roman ruins, to towns and cities that are themselves monuments, to ethno-entities of popular architecture.
Countless footpaths and trekking trails beckon you to venture into beauty and discover the magic of nature - in the mountains, river valleys and canyons, through karstic plains and dense forests, to rock-bound islands and lush green hills. Within this most diverse of reliefs walkers and hikers can reach even the most mysterious areas strewn between sea level and the highest peak on Dinara (1831 m): in nature parks, nature reserves, national parks and other areas with particular attractions from the aspect of adventure - in Slavonic and Baranja, Northern Croatia (Hrvatsko zagorje, Medimurje, Podravina), Gorski kotar, Istria, Dalmatia and Zagorje, on hundreds of isles and islands, and down the length of the Dinara range extending along the coastline. Then there are Ucka, Velebit, Mosor, Biokovo, Snijeznica in the far south - oil offering a wealth of challenges.
Sailing It is easy to capture favourable winds among such a number of islands as exist in Croatian territorial waters - whether blowing from the land or the sea. The strength of wind and waves is not unusually excessive, but should you have had enough just sail for the nearest sheltered bay. Fully equipped sailboats of various categories (with or without a skipper) can be hired from any one of the dozens of marinas situated up and down the coast and on the islands. Yachting clubs and marinas are numerous and well equipped. We are recommending sailing regio at Zadar, Sibenik und Dubrovnik.
Alpinists and freestyle climbers will find the right climbing environment in both the continental and littoral regions, with some climbing sites being located quite close to towns and popular Croatia holiday resorts (Zagreb, Ogulin, Rovinj, Paiin, Split, Ornls...]. Routes ranging from several meters long for beginners, to several hundred meters for specialists, are open to climbing enthusiasts on the rocks of Paklenica, Velebit, Ucka, in the Dinara range (including Dinara-Ornis), Mosor, Biokovo and others, and on the islands (Brac, Vis, Mljet). The best known climbing destinations in the continental parts of the country are on the mountains of Klek, Papuk, Kalnik, on Samarske stijene and Bijele stijene
Well, I think yell get a perfect Croatia holidays!
Magical adventures in Croatia with hundreds of sparkling waterfalls and more than a thousand islands set amid the blue of the sea, green mountain rivers and streams, virgin canyons, wild karst and mellow plains.
Nestling between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, in the south-eastern part of the European continent, Croatia jealously protects eight national parks, ten nature parks and a whole range of special reserves, including plant life, animals, geological formations, hydrological phenomena, all within a small but rich area that can be travelled by car from one end to another in a single day.
Many paths run between rivers, mountain peaks, tiny island ports and beaches, leading to Illyrian hill forts, to Roman ruins, to towns and cities that are themselves monuments, to ethno-entities of popular architecture.
Countless footpaths and trekking trails beckon you to venture into beauty and discover the magic of nature - in the mountains, river valleys and canyons, through karstic plains and dense forests, to rock-bound islands and lush green hills. Within this most diverse of reliefs walkers and hikers can reach even the most mysterious areas strewn between sea level and the highest peak on Dinara (1831 m): in nature parks, nature reserves, national parks and other areas with particular attractions from the aspect of adventure - in Slavonic and Baranja, Northern Croatia (Hrvatsko zagorje, Medimurje, Podravina), Gorski kotar, Istria, Dalmatia and Zagorje, on hundreds of isles and islands, and down the length of the Dinara range extending along the coastline. Then there are Ucka, Velebit, Mosor, Biokovo, Snijeznica in the far south - oil offering a wealth of challenges.
Sailing It is easy to capture favourable winds among such a number of islands as exist in Croatian territorial waters - whether blowing from the land or the sea. The strength of wind and waves is not unusually excessive, but should you have had enough just sail for the nearest sheltered bay. Fully equipped sailboats of various categories (with or without a skipper) can be hired from any one of the dozens of marinas situated up and down the coast and on the islands. Yachting clubs and marinas are numerous and well equipped. We are recommending sailing regio at Zadar, Sibenik und Dubrovnik.
Alpinists and freestyle climbers will find the right climbing environment in both the continental and littoral regions, with some climbing sites being located quite close to towns and popular Croatia holiday resorts (Zagreb, Ogulin, Rovinj, Paiin, Split, Ornls...]. Routes ranging from several meters long for beginners, to several hundred meters for specialists, are open to climbing enthusiasts on the rocks of Paklenica, Velebit, Ucka, in the Dinara range (including Dinara-Ornis), Mosor, Biokovo and others, and on the islands (Brac, Vis, Mljet). The best known climbing destinations in the continental parts of the country are on the mountains of Klek, Papuk, Kalnik, on Samarske stijene and Bijele stijene
Well, I think yell get a perfect Croatia holidays!
Senin, 18 Juli 2011
Advantage of Renting a Condotel Suite in Cebu while on Vacation in the Philippines
You may be asking yourself, why would I want to rent a Condotel Suite while on vacation? Condotel Suites in Cebu, Philippines are less expensive than a normal hotel would be, you get more included with the full package, and when you break the price down, you are getting more in return on your money
Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences [LCRR] in Mactan, Cebu, a boutique Brand Name Condotel Investment of Pacific Concord Properties Inc, is now ready to accept guests in the Condo Hotel. Under the management of Lancaster Hotels, Land and Properties, Inc. [LHLPI], rental operations of LCRR were soft launched March 2007.
Beth Collingz, International Marketing Director of PLC Global an internet based sales and marketing company and lead marketing partners with Pacific Concord Properties, Inc., for the Lancaster Brand of Condotels in the Philippines, recently announced the company has acquired, by purchase, additional units in its Lancaster Cebu Condotel adding another 75M pesos to its project inventory and expansion program. This brings the number of properties held in the development to 75 suites with another 120 units to be added before year end for Condo Hotel rental operations.
Collingz said staying in a condominium hotel not only gives you the same flexibility as you would have in your own home but also you are usually fairly close to the attractions. Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences for example is located a few minutes from Mactan-Cebu International Airport, 15 mins to first class beach resorts and 20 mins from down town Cebu.
Some of the things that are included with your condominium at the Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences: Airconditioing, Kitchen is fully supplied, Laundry service, Swimming pool, Cable television in bedroom and living room said Collingz
The idea of being able to have four people in a Two bedroom suite is also an aspect that will go far. No more having to get two rooms for a family of four.
Wireless Internet access for your laptop is available in all rooms and maid service can be provided as well.
One of the other advantages that really should catch your attention is that you have the comforts of being able to cook, have someone else do the laundry and just relax said Collingz
You can choose from Studio or Two Bedroom suites at Lancaster Cebu. For the soft launch, LHLPI has prepared special promotional room rates aimed at budget travelers. Guests can check-in to any of the executive studio suites for as low as $35 a night or to any of the two-bedroom loft rooms at $65 a night plus 13% Government Tax whilst longer term discounted rates for monthly and yearly lease rentals are also available said Collingz.
If you are planning your vacation either as one family, or as a two family group then the cost per person of renting a condotel suite is quite small.
Some people will try to weigh the cost of a stay in a condominium against a couple of weeks in a low budget motel. There is really no comparison, especially when you look at the advantages and cost over the long run, including being able to cook instead of eating out every meal. Some motels and hotels actually work out to be more expensive, especially if you choose to stay in a suite.
Taking everything into consideration staying in a condominium while on vacation may be the best choice you have ever made.
Whilst some renovation works are still ongoing within the complex, unit rentals are now available to guests at 'Special Promo Rates'. Cebu City is the acknowledged gateway and Queen City of the South. Cebu is the most important trading and commercial hub outside of Metro Manila. Mactan Cebu International Airport assures the arrival of a steady stream of international flights from Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Kota Kinabalu, Seoul and Qatar. There are also chartered flights from Incheon, Taipei, Kansai, Nagoya and Kiaoshung that arrive on a weekly basis. Cebu is identified by Asiaweek and Conde Nast Traveller as one of Asia’s Best Cities
Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences [LCRR] in Mactan, Cebu, a boutique Brand Name Condotel Investment of Pacific Concord Properties Inc, is now ready to accept guests in the Condo Hotel. Under the management of Lancaster Hotels, Land and Properties, Inc. [LHLPI], rental operations of LCRR were soft launched March 2007.
Beth Collingz, International Marketing Director of PLC Global an internet based sales and marketing company and lead marketing partners with Pacific Concord Properties, Inc., for the Lancaster Brand of Condotels in the Philippines, recently announced the company has acquired, by purchase, additional units in its Lancaster Cebu Condotel adding another 75M pesos to its project inventory and expansion program. This brings the number of properties held in the development to 75 suites with another 120 units to be added before year end for Condo Hotel rental operations.
Collingz said staying in a condominium hotel not only gives you the same flexibility as you would have in your own home but also you are usually fairly close to the attractions. Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences for example is located a few minutes from Mactan-Cebu International Airport, 15 mins to first class beach resorts and 20 mins from down town Cebu.
Some of the things that are included with your condominium at the Lancaster Cebu Resort Residences: Airconditioing, Kitchen is fully supplied, Laundry service, Swimming pool, Cable television in bedroom and living room said Collingz
The idea of being able to have four people in a Two bedroom suite is also an aspect that will go far. No more having to get two rooms for a family of four.
Wireless Internet access for your laptop is available in all rooms and maid service can be provided as well.
One of the other advantages that really should catch your attention is that you have the comforts of being able to cook, have someone else do the laundry and just relax said Collingz
You can choose from Studio or Two Bedroom suites at Lancaster Cebu. For the soft launch, LHLPI has prepared special promotional room rates aimed at budget travelers. Guests can check-in to any of the executive studio suites for as low as $35 a night or to any of the two-bedroom loft rooms at $65 a night plus 13% Government Tax whilst longer term discounted rates for monthly and yearly lease rentals are also available said Collingz.
If you are planning your vacation either as one family, or as a two family group then the cost per person of renting a condotel suite is quite small.
Some people will try to weigh the cost of a stay in a condominium against a couple of weeks in a low budget motel. There is really no comparison, especially when you look at the advantages and cost over the long run, including being able to cook instead of eating out every meal. Some motels and hotels actually work out to be more expensive, especially if you choose to stay in a suite.
Taking everything into consideration staying in a condominium while on vacation may be the best choice you have ever made.
Whilst some renovation works are still ongoing within the complex, unit rentals are now available to guests at 'Special Promo Rates'. Cebu City is the acknowledged gateway and Queen City of the South. Cebu is the most important trading and commercial hub outside of Metro Manila. Mactan Cebu International Airport assures the arrival of a steady stream of international flights from Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Singapore, Hong Kong, Tokyo, Kota Kinabalu, Seoul and Qatar. There are also chartered flights from Incheon, Taipei, Kansai, Nagoya and Kiaoshung that arrive on a weekly basis. Cebu is identified by Asiaweek and Conde Nast Traveller as one of Asia’s Best Cities
Minggu, 17 Juli 2011
Addiction: When Gambling Becomes a Problem
This article deals with the problems associated with an gambling addiction. You can read here about the signs, causes and treatment of such problems.
While most people enjoy casino gambling, sports betting, lottery and bingo playing for the fun and excitement it provides, others may experience gambling as an addictive and distractive habit. Statistics show that while 85 percent of the adult population in the US enjoys some type of gambling every year, between 2 and 3 percent of will develop a gambling problem and 1 percent of them are diagnosed as pathological gamblers.
Where can you draw the line between harmless gambling to problem gambling? How can you tell if you or your friend are compulsive gamblers? Here you can find answers to these questions and other questions regarding problem gambling and gambling addiction.
What is the Meaning of Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling or compulsive gambling is defined as an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite the destructive effect of gambling on the gamblers life and despite feelings of guilt and remorse. Problem gambling tends to have a negative effect on the gamblers financial state, relationships and daily life. Severe cases of problem gambling can be defined as pathological gambling.
Am I a Compulsive Gambler?
1) Do you gamble until your last penny runs out?
2) Do you gamble to win back your former losses or debts?
3) Did you ever had to borrow money to continue gamble?
4) Did your gambling habit ever made you lie to your friends or family?
5) Did you ever skip work or other obligation to gamble?
6) Do you tend to gamble to forget about your personal problems or to celebrate happy occasions?
7) Does gambling have a negative affect on your daily life or relationships?
If you have answered yes on at least one of the questions listed above, then you have a problem.
Can Anyone Become a Compulsive Gambler?
Theoretically, yes. Any gambler can develop gambling problem regardless to the type of gambling he is occupied with, the amount of money and time he is spending on gambling. Researches show that slot machines that can be found in bars and convenient stores are the most addictive type of gambling activity, while lottery draws and bingo games are located on the other end of the scale. Gambling addiction is an emotional problem; its symptoms, causes and treatments are similar to any other form of addiction.
How Can I treat Gambling Addiction?
1) Group Therapy:
Gamblers Anonymous offers a 12 step self help program similar to the one offered to alcohol addicts in Alcoholics Anonymous. Group therapy also offers gambling addicts advice and support from professional counselors and other gambling addicts in different phases of their recovery process. Gambler Anonymous centers are available in more than 1,200 locations statewide.
2) Individual Therapy:
Cognitive or behavior therapy can help gambling addicts to identify their unaware thinking and acting patterns, which led them to gamble compulsively, and to replace them with controllable and healthier ways of thinking.
3) Psychiatric Medication:
It has recently been proven that antidepressant medications from the family of SSRIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can be affective in treatment of gambling addicts.
While most people enjoy casino gambling, sports betting, lottery and bingo playing for the fun and excitement it provides, others may experience gambling as an addictive and distractive habit. Statistics show that while 85 percent of the adult population in the US enjoys some type of gambling every year, between 2 and 3 percent of will develop a gambling problem and 1 percent of them are diagnosed as pathological gamblers.
Where can you draw the line between harmless gambling to problem gambling? How can you tell if you or your friend are compulsive gamblers? Here you can find answers to these questions and other questions regarding problem gambling and gambling addiction.
What is the Meaning of Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling or compulsive gambling is defined as an uncontrollable urge to gamble despite the destructive effect of gambling on the gamblers life and despite feelings of guilt and remorse. Problem gambling tends to have a negative effect on the gamblers financial state, relationships and daily life. Severe cases of problem gambling can be defined as pathological gambling.
Am I a Compulsive Gambler?
1) Do you gamble until your last penny runs out?
2) Do you gamble to win back your former losses or debts?
3) Did you ever had to borrow money to continue gamble?
4) Did your gambling habit ever made you lie to your friends or family?
5) Did you ever skip work or other obligation to gamble?
6) Do you tend to gamble to forget about your personal problems or to celebrate happy occasions?
7) Does gambling have a negative affect on your daily life or relationships?
If you have answered yes on at least one of the questions listed above, then you have a problem.
Can Anyone Become a Compulsive Gambler?
Theoretically, yes. Any gambler can develop gambling problem regardless to the type of gambling he is occupied with, the amount of money and time he is spending on gambling. Researches show that slot machines that can be found in bars and convenient stores are the most addictive type of gambling activity, while lottery draws and bingo games are located on the other end of the scale. Gambling addiction is an emotional problem; its symptoms, causes and treatments are similar to any other form of addiction.
How Can I treat Gambling Addiction?
1) Group Therapy:
Gamblers Anonymous offers a 12 step self help program similar to the one offered to alcohol addicts in Alcoholics Anonymous. Group therapy also offers gambling addicts advice and support from professional counselors and other gambling addicts in different phases of their recovery process. Gambler Anonymous centers are available in more than 1,200 locations statewide.
2) Individual Therapy:
Cognitive or behavior therapy can help gambling addicts to identify their unaware thinking and acting patterns, which led them to gamble compulsively, and to replace them with controllable and healthier ways of thinking.
3) Psychiatric Medication:
It has recently been proven that antidepressant medications from the family of SSRIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can be affective in treatment of gambling addicts.
Sabtu, 16 Juli 2011
Activities Available In Pigeon Forge TN
Planning an ultimate Vacation? If you’re tired of the traditional trips to the beach and looking for something new and exciting, there is nothing quite like a trip to Pigeon Forge. Experience the ultimate feel of relaxation with all the activities they can offer. This incredible getaway spot will leave you breathless and rejuvenated. All the adventure and excitement you can imagine is packed into one spot that is guaranteed to be the perfect getaway for your family.
Enjoy ...
Planning an ultimate Vacation? If you’re tired of the traditional trips to the beach and looking for something new and exciting, there is nothing quite like a trip to Pigeon Forge. Experience the ultimate feel of relaxation with all the activities they can offer. This incredible getaway spot will leave you breathless and rejuvenated. All the adventure and excitement you can imagine is packed into one spot that is guaranteed to be the perfect getaway for your family.
Enjoy the different activities at Pigeon Forge like Five Rivers Adventures. This gives you an up close and breathtaking view of the spectacular scenery. If you are going out with your family, this is a perfect addition to your schedule. The kids will love it. This tour guided trip includes a picnic lunch. Keep in mind that this activity is seasonal and opens during the month of March up to the month of October only.
Another famous activity is Rafting in the Smokies. Enjoy the Rocky Top Outfitters with a fully stocked fly and tackle shop, featuring modern and high-quality spin and fly fishing equipments. The Rocky Top Outfitters have professional guides that you can hire during the season. Your kids will love the thrill of rafting across the river through a spray of white water, making your trip to Pigeon Forge a trip to remember.
After white-water rafting, you might be looking for a way to relax and enjoy yourself. Attending a show is the perfect way. The Louise Mandrell show consists of a one woman band that can perform multiple shows. She entertains you with everything with the use of fiddle drums to the base and dance routines that would even make an athlete gasp for breath.
Another show is the Comedy Barn. A family-friendly show, this is guaranteed to please children and adults alike. Even the youngest to the oldest can enjoy this kind of show. There is nothing quite like clean country comedy. This will be a night full of laughter that you’ll never forget.
You can visit the famous Tennessee Museum of Aviation which is located in the parkway of Pigeon Forge. This unforgettable experience can give delight the entire family, an attraction that is both educational and captivating. You can leisurely stroll through the premises, observing the impressive and extensive collection of aviation memorabilia. This part of Pigeon Forge gives honor to some known Tennesseans who have contributed a lot in the field of aerospace and aviation.
You won’t want to miss taking a trip to Dollywood, an amusement park that combines country music, great rides, and some tasty food. The kids will love the roller coasters, the music, and the fun.
There truly is no place quite like Pigeon Forge. It’s a vacation your family is sure to remember forever.
Enjoy ...
Planning an ultimate Vacation? If you’re tired of the traditional trips to the beach and looking for something new and exciting, there is nothing quite like a trip to Pigeon Forge. Experience the ultimate feel of relaxation with all the activities they can offer. This incredible getaway spot will leave you breathless and rejuvenated. All the adventure and excitement you can imagine is packed into one spot that is guaranteed to be the perfect getaway for your family.
Enjoy the different activities at Pigeon Forge like Five Rivers Adventures. This gives you an up close and breathtaking view of the spectacular scenery. If you are going out with your family, this is a perfect addition to your schedule. The kids will love it. This tour guided trip includes a picnic lunch. Keep in mind that this activity is seasonal and opens during the month of March up to the month of October only.
Another famous activity is Rafting in the Smokies. Enjoy the Rocky Top Outfitters with a fully stocked fly and tackle shop, featuring modern and high-quality spin and fly fishing equipments. The Rocky Top Outfitters have professional guides that you can hire during the season. Your kids will love the thrill of rafting across the river through a spray of white water, making your trip to Pigeon Forge a trip to remember.
After white-water rafting, you might be looking for a way to relax and enjoy yourself. Attending a show is the perfect way. The Louise Mandrell show consists of a one woman band that can perform multiple shows. She entertains you with everything with the use of fiddle drums to the base and dance routines that would even make an athlete gasp for breath.
Another show is the Comedy Barn. A family-friendly show, this is guaranteed to please children and adults alike. Even the youngest to the oldest can enjoy this kind of show. There is nothing quite like clean country comedy. This will be a night full of laughter that you’ll never forget.
You can visit the famous Tennessee Museum of Aviation which is located in the parkway of Pigeon Forge. This unforgettable experience can give delight the entire family, an attraction that is both educational and captivating. You can leisurely stroll through the premises, observing the impressive and extensive collection of aviation memorabilia. This part of Pigeon Forge gives honor to some known Tennesseans who have contributed a lot in the field of aerospace and aviation.
You won’t want to miss taking a trip to Dollywood, an amusement park that combines country music, great rides, and some tasty food. The kids will love the roller coasters, the music, and the fun.
There truly is no place quite like Pigeon Forge. It’s a vacation your family is sure to remember forever.
Jumat, 15 Juli 2011
Accommodation Travel Tips
BEFORE YOU GO
Do a hotel research on the net looking not only for the cheapest rates but also considering the amenities and services provided, location, possible references from other people. Travel guidebooks can also be very helpful for choosing the hotel that suits you best. Be as much flexible with your trip schedule as possible. For example, business class hotels often have lower weekend rates.
As soon as you reserved the room(s) online, document all information ab...
BEFORE YOU GO
Do a hotel research on the net looking not only for the cheapest rates but also considering the amenities and services provided, location, possible references from other people. Travel guidebooks can also be very helpful for choosing the hotel that suits you best. Be as much flexible with your trip schedule as possible. For example, business class hotels often have lower weekend rates.
As soon as you reserved the room(s) online, document all information about the hotel(s). The easiest way is to print out the whole page off your computer screen so you will have a clear statement that you can use as evidence in case of misplacing or incorrectly entering your information by a hotel clerk. Take a copy with you, make another one for your relatives so they will know when and where you are going to stay so they can contact you in emergency cases.
WHEN CHECKING-IN
Learn the proper check-in and check-out times. Confirm the amenities and services the hotel provides. Ask for directions, a local map. Get a card with the hotel's name, address and phone number so you can show it to a taxi driver or a passer-by in the street if you get lost.
Some hotels may provide extra services that you may not know about unless you ask for it:
- laundry service,
- hair dryers,
- voltage converters/ adaptors,
- newspaper service,
- complementary meals,
- access to fax machine, copier, printer, computer, Internet connection,
- cable TV, rental movies, video games,
- portable beds, baby cribs,
- complementary shuttle service to airport,
- rental safe for your money, jewellery, documents,
- telephone access charges,
- fees for using mini-bar,
- guided tours, excursions.
AT THE HOTEL
Safety should be a priority for everybody and you have to take some precautions. We devoted a whole separate page to travel safety including hotel safety measures so we will skip this part here. When you go out for the day, leave your key at the reception desk. Confirm closing time. Some hotels do lock up at night and you're expected to keep the key if you stay out late.
BEFORE LEAVING YOUR HOTEL
Check out your room for left-behind items. If you need extra time for staying over the regular check-out time (usually it ranges from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m), make a request in advance or the hotel may charge you an additional night.
Review the hotel bill making sure that all charges are accurate.
We wish you a successful and safe trip!
Do a hotel research on the net looking not only for the cheapest rates but also considering the amenities and services provided, location, possible references from other people. Travel guidebooks can also be very helpful for choosing the hotel that suits you best. Be as much flexible with your trip schedule as possible. For example, business class hotels often have lower weekend rates.
As soon as you reserved the room(s) online, document all information ab...
BEFORE YOU GO
Do a hotel research on the net looking not only for the cheapest rates but also considering the amenities and services provided, location, possible references from other people. Travel guidebooks can also be very helpful for choosing the hotel that suits you best. Be as much flexible with your trip schedule as possible. For example, business class hotels often have lower weekend rates.
As soon as you reserved the room(s) online, document all information about the hotel(s). The easiest way is to print out the whole page off your computer screen so you will have a clear statement that you can use as evidence in case of misplacing or incorrectly entering your information by a hotel clerk. Take a copy with you, make another one for your relatives so they will know when and where you are going to stay so they can contact you in emergency cases.
WHEN CHECKING-IN
Learn the proper check-in and check-out times. Confirm the amenities and services the hotel provides. Ask for directions, a local map. Get a card with the hotel's name, address and phone number so you can show it to a taxi driver or a passer-by in the street if you get lost.
Some hotels may provide extra services that you may not know about unless you ask for it:
- laundry service,
- hair dryers,
- voltage converters/ adaptors,
- newspaper service,
- complementary meals,
- access to fax machine, copier, printer, computer, Internet connection,
- cable TV, rental movies, video games,
- portable beds, baby cribs,
- complementary shuttle service to airport,
- rental safe for your money, jewellery, documents,
- telephone access charges,
- fees for using mini-bar,
- guided tours, excursions.
AT THE HOTEL
Safety should be a priority for everybody and you have to take some precautions. We devoted a whole separate page to travel safety including hotel safety measures so we will skip this part here. When you go out for the day, leave your key at the reception desk. Confirm closing time. Some hotels do lock up at night and you're expected to keep the key if you stay out late.
BEFORE LEAVING YOUR HOTEL
Check out your room for left-behind items. If you need extra time for staying over the regular check-out time (usually it ranges from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m), make a request in advance or the hotel may charge you an additional night.
Review the hotel bill making sure that all charges are accurate.
We wish you a successful and safe trip!
Kamis, 14 Juli 2011
A World Gateway to Discriminating Vacation and Travel Experiences
Find out how easy it is to secure luxury vacation packages for less using online resources and travel memberships. You can stay at four and five star hotels at amazingly affordable prices using this method...
More and more people are traveling, but vacations aren't getting any cheaper. Perhaps you've always wanted to take a trip to an exotic place but never felt you could afford it. After all, luxury resorts are usually far beyond the average family's price range, right? That's why so many people are using online services to book vacations at a bargain. The Internet has become a world gateway to discriminating vacation and travel experiences.
One popular method travelers are using to get huge discounts on their vacation packages is to join with a company that offers an ongoing membership for travel and hotel savings opportunities. The company usually has both experience in travel and direct contact with resorts around the world. You can take advantage of years of travel experience without ever leaving your home. It's like having your own travel agent on your personal computer!
Luxury Without the Expense
By creating a travel membership, you can expect to pay far less than normal rates for luxury resorts in places like Europe, Israel, Singapore, United States, and many other exotic destinations. Luxury resorts are typically four and five star resorts with beautiful decor, plenty of space, every amenity possible, and breathtaking scenery of the ocean, mountains, golf courses, and so forth.
The resorts have everything from fireplaces and fitness centers to pools and hot tubs. You can choose a destination according to the leisure activities you enjoy, such as golf, skiing, relaxing on the beach, family attractions, attending local events, and more.
You'll discover that, by using the expertise of a travel company, you can often secure a luxury resort for your holiday for less than a regular hotel!
Secure Vacation Packages for Hot Holidays
Another advantage of allowing an expert to find discount vacations for you is you can book in advance for hot holidays when rates are usually "through the roof." For instance, if you want to take a Caribbean cruise during Spring Break, you might be able to find a great deal. You can enjoy the cruise and tour the islands for only a fraction of the price.
Home Based Business in Travel
You can earn an extra income by introducing others to a luxury resort membership and savings. If you're interested in travel or always wanted to be a travel agent, you'll find this to be an exciting moneymaking opportunity. You can even recommend others via the Internet, and work at home. There are no limits!
Never spend your vacation in the same old place when you can enjoy a luxury vacation for the same price or less. Use the Web for research along with a company that is backed by years of travel experience to open your world gateway to discriminating travel and vacation experiences.
More and more people are traveling, but vacations aren't getting any cheaper. Perhaps you've always wanted to take a trip to an exotic place but never felt you could afford it. After all, luxury resorts are usually far beyond the average family's price range, right? That's why so many people are using online services to book vacations at a bargain. The Internet has become a world gateway to discriminating vacation and travel experiences.
One popular method travelers are using to get huge discounts on their vacation packages is to join with a company that offers an ongoing membership for travel and hotel savings opportunities. The company usually has both experience in travel and direct contact with resorts around the world. You can take advantage of years of travel experience without ever leaving your home. It's like having your own travel agent on your personal computer!
Luxury Without the Expense
By creating a travel membership, you can expect to pay far less than normal rates for luxury resorts in places like Europe, Israel, Singapore, United States, and many other exotic destinations. Luxury resorts are typically four and five star resorts with beautiful decor, plenty of space, every amenity possible, and breathtaking scenery of the ocean, mountains, golf courses, and so forth.
The resorts have everything from fireplaces and fitness centers to pools and hot tubs. You can choose a destination according to the leisure activities you enjoy, such as golf, skiing, relaxing on the beach, family attractions, attending local events, and more.
You'll discover that, by using the expertise of a travel company, you can often secure a luxury resort for your holiday for less than a regular hotel!
Secure Vacation Packages for Hot Holidays
Another advantage of allowing an expert to find discount vacations for you is you can book in advance for hot holidays when rates are usually "through the roof." For instance, if you want to take a Caribbean cruise during Spring Break, you might be able to find a great deal. You can enjoy the cruise and tour the islands for only a fraction of the price.
Home Based Business in Travel
You can earn an extra income by introducing others to a luxury resort membership and savings. If you're interested in travel or always wanted to be a travel agent, you'll find this to be an exciting moneymaking opportunity. You can even recommend others via the Internet, and work at home. There are no limits!
Never spend your vacation in the same old place when you can enjoy a luxury vacation for the same price or less. Use the Web for research along with a company that is backed by years of travel experience to open your world gateway to discriminating travel and vacation experiences.
Senin, 11 Juli 2011
A Trip To Revisit And Rediscover The Best Of Great Yarmouth
The article covers the regeneration of Great Yarmouth that is currently taking place. This includes area such as the promenade and historical quarter.
Childhood memories are made of bright colours and tingling tastes and ring with fun and laughter. As you rekindle thoughts of those days when simple pleasures brought huge delight, the times that spring to mind are always care-free school days, delicious home cooking and classic seaside holidays.
Glorious days spent on the beach with bucket and spade, fish and chips by the sea or sticky-sweet candy floss and the vibrant lights of the fair! Sadly, when we return to our favourite places they never seem to live up to expectations. The hotel that you stayed in year after year has been turned into flats, the pier is off-limits due to repair work; everywhere is just a little bit tired and in need of some TLC. Yet there are some places that are bucking the trend and a return visit will excite and surprise you.
A popular seaside destination for over 200 years, Great Yarmouth has been attracting visitors to the stunning Norfolk coastline for the past two centuries. The first visitors came to reap the health benefits of seawater. The Great Yarmouth Bath House was opened in 1759 where guests could partake of seawater baths or, if brave enough, take a dip in the North Sea – but just for a few moments! Today, many come to experience what is great about UK seaside holidays while also enjoying many of the attractions the town and surrounding county has to offer.
Great Yarmouth has recently benefited from an extensive regeneration project with vast financial investment. Incredible improvements have been made to the seafront, market place and town with over £30 million of both private capital and public funding including that from Government, European and Local Authority pots.
The resort holds a dynamic blend of old and new, charm and character, whilst being full of vibrant energy, colour, excitement and surprise. The regeneration includes aspects of both improvement to current areas, along with exciting new construction projects including the build of an outer harbour.
Areas of the town have significantly benefited from the cash injection with a new look esplanade, with modern lighting that dances across the sands; additional seating and feature lighting in the Market Place for performance and events, and new road layouts with a pedestrain link to the town centre.
The town also has a fascinating historical heritage and funding is being invested in restoring and improving these elements. The 102 year old Wellington Pier is undergoing a complete re-build to restore it to its original glory. Maritime House (formally the Maritime Museum) located on the seafront has undergone restoration and repair and is now the new Tourist Information Centre, while the historical character of The Rows (Market Row and Broad Row) has been enhanced by Victorian style lighting and period paving.
Childhood memories are made of bright colours and tingling tastes and ring with fun and laughter. As you rekindle thoughts of those days when simple pleasures brought huge delight, the times that spring to mind are always care-free school days, delicious home cooking and classic seaside holidays.
Glorious days spent on the beach with bucket and spade, fish and chips by the sea or sticky-sweet candy floss and the vibrant lights of the fair! Sadly, when we return to our favourite places they never seem to live up to expectations. The hotel that you stayed in year after year has been turned into flats, the pier is off-limits due to repair work; everywhere is just a little bit tired and in need of some TLC. Yet there are some places that are bucking the trend and a return visit will excite and surprise you.
A popular seaside destination for over 200 years, Great Yarmouth has been attracting visitors to the stunning Norfolk coastline for the past two centuries. The first visitors came to reap the health benefits of seawater. The Great Yarmouth Bath House was opened in 1759 where guests could partake of seawater baths or, if brave enough, take a dip in the North Sea – but just for a few moments! Today, many come to experience what is great about UK seaside holidays while also enjoying many of the attractions the town and surrounding county has to offer.
Great Yarmouth has recently benefited from an extensive regeneration project with vast financial investment. Incredible improvements have been made to the seafront, market place and town with over £30 million of both private capital and public funding including that from Government, European and Local Authority pots.
The resort holds a dynamic blend of old and new, charm and character, whilst being full of vibrant energy, colour, excitement and surprise. The regeneration includes aspects of both improvement to current areas, along with exciting new construction projects including the build of an outer harbour.
Areas of the town have significantly benefited from the cash injection with a new look esplanade, with modern lighting that dances across the sands; additional seating and feature lighting in the Market Place for performance and events, and new road layouts with a pedestrain link to the town centre.
The town also has a fascinating historical heritage and funding is being invested in restoring and improving these elements. The 102 year old Wellington Pier is undergoing a complete re-build to restore it to its original glory. Maritime House (formally the Maritime Museum) located on the seafront has undergone restoration and repair and is now the new Tourist Information Centre, while the historical character of The Rows (Market Row and Broad Row) has been enhanced by Victorian style lighting and period paving.
Minggu, 10 Juli 2011
A Tourist Guide To Sevilla
Coming to Seville is like seeing Spain on parade.
Tapas. Flamenco. Bullfighting. Art. Poetry. Pottery. Architecture. Style. History. Cervicitas!* It is all here – in splendour.
Seville , in the southern Spanish region called Andalusia , is what many people describe as “the most Spanish of all Spanish cities”. It was home to Carmen and Don Juan and boats grand plazas, sculptured gardens and flowerbox-filled balconies. Walking through Seville ’s impossibly narrow, cobbles...
Coming to Seville is like seeing Spain on parade.
Tapas. Flamenco. Bullfighting. Art. Poetry. Pottery. Architecture. Style. History. Cervicitas!* It is all here – in splendour.
Seville , in the southern Spanish region called Andalusia , is what many people describe as “the most Spanish of all Spanish cities”. It was home to Carmen and Don Juan and boats grand plazas, sculptured gardens and flowerbox-filled balconies. Walking through Seville ’s impossibly narrow, cobblestone streets you can look up at any moment and gape at pink-turreted churches, ever-present, resplendent tiles, and hosts of other visual treats that are the legacy of both Moorish and Colonial architecture.
A city that closes down between the hours of 2 and 5 pm , it makes the perfect holiday destination. Why? Because in Seville , it is impossible to do anything for 3 hours everyday except relish in two of the living arts the Spanish have perfected: eating and enjoying life. If you stay long enough it will not be long until you hone the enjoying life art to the even finer art of taking an afternoon nap. (Ah, the siesta! A joy heinously ignored by the majority of the world).
WHERE TO STAY
‘ El centro ’, the historical centre of the city, is where the beer and tapas forever flow and where you will feel compelled to live half your life socialising in the street like all the immaculately dressed locals.
RESTAURANTS & BARS
Seville is tapas bar heaven. Here is a selection worth checking out:
Coloniales – famous for large, cheap tapas. Very popular spot, you might even meet someone!
La Alameda is the local word on the place to go for night life in this city. La Alameda is actually a small, tree-filled area which is full of bars and people. Any night of the week is a good night here. La Madrasa on Calle P Mencheta is the pick of places in this area for tapas.
FOOD MUST TRIES
You are in Spain , so repeat after me: 1) I am not afraid of oil, or anything (and everything) fried in it. 2) I will not get hungry for lunch before 2 or 3 pm , nor for dinner until 11pm . When you finally do get to eat, two fabulous factors are in your favour. One, the food is not expensive and two, the Spanish love food. Try the local, Sevillano specialties like mojama (dried tuna fish known as ham of the sea) and salmorejo (thick gazpacho). And, of course, the classic, Spanish Tortilla.
MUST SEES
* Real Alcázar. This enchanting building was a fortress from the Muslim-era and later changed hands to become the home of Christian royalty for many centuries. Today the gardens, tapestries and varied architecture remain some of Seville ’s most appealing treasures.
* Plaza de España. A truly spectacular plaza, equal with any in the country. It was the centrepiece of the 1929 Spanish-Americas Fair and is an arc of tiled glory and historic handwork. Across the tree-lined road from the plaza is the enchanting Parque de María.
* A Flamenco Show. Seville is one of the legendary homes of flamenco. You can opt for a tourist-geared spectacular or a more intimate café setting. Recommended spectacular: El Tablao Flamenco Los Gallos.Recommended café: La Casa del Carmen
* Cathedral and the Giralda. The cathedral is the largest Gothic building in the world and the pride of Seville . The emblem of Seville is the Giralda, the weathercock that sits atop the Cathedral. You can climb the Giralda, which is in the form of a woman representing Faith, for spectacular city views.
* Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza Museum (Seville’s Bullring). This is one of the oldest bullrings in Spain . Check out the museum and definitely see a bullfight if possible.
* Museo de Bellas Artes ( Museum of Fine Art ) is categorised as a major worldscale museum and considered to house some of the greatest paintings in all of Spain .
In Seville , the spirit of Spain engulfs you. When I visited I felt naked without a flamenco frock on and pair of castanets in my hand. In this city, Spain ’s famous flavours are things very difficult to resist. And why on earth would you want to?
ENJOY!
* Cervecita: a social little glass of beer taken either at lunch or at dinner, or, delightfully, at both.
Tapas. Flamenco. Bullfighting. Art. Poetry. Pottery. Architecture. Style. History. Cervicitas!* It is all here – in splendour.
Seville , in the southern Spanish region called Andalusia , is what many people describe as “the most Spanish of all Spanish cities”. It was home to Carmen and Don Juan and boats grand plazas, sculptured gardens and flowerbox-filled balconies. Walking through Seville ’s impossibly narrow, cobbles...
Coming to Seville is like seeing Spain on parade.
Tapas. Flamenco. Bullfighting. Art. Poetry. Pottery. Architecture. Style. History. Cervicitas!* It is all here – in splendour.
Seville , in the southern Spanish region called Andalusia , is what many people describe as “the most Spanish of all Spanish cities”. It was home to Carmen and Don Juan and boats grand plazas, sculptured gardens and flowerbox-filled balconies. Walking through Seville ’s impossibly narrow, cobblestone streets you can look up at any moment and gape at pink-turreted churches, ever-present, resplendent tiles, and hosts of other visual treats that are the legacy of both Moorish and Colonial architecture.
A city that closes down between the hours of 2 and 5 pm , it makes the perfect holiday destination. Why? Because in Seville , it is impossible to do anything for 3 hours everyday except relish in two of the living arts the Spanish have perfected: eating and enjoying life. If you stay long enough it will not be long until you hone the enjoying life art to the even finer art of taking an afternoon nap. (Ah, the siesta! A joy heinously ignored by the majority of the world).
WHERE TO STAY
‘ El centro ’, the historical centre of the city, is where the beer and tapas forever flow and where you will feel compelled to live half your life socialising in the street like all the immaculately dressed locals.
RESTAURANTS & BARS
Seville is tapas bar heaven. Here is a selection worth checking out:
Coloniales – famous for large, cheap tapas. Very popular spot, you might even meet someone!
La Alameda is the local word on the place to go for night life in this city. La Alameda is actually a small, tree-filled area which is full of bars and people. Any night of the week is a good night here. La Madrasa on Calle P Mencheta is the pick of places in this area for tapas.
FOOD MUST TRIES
You are in Spain , so repeat after me: 1) I am not afraid of oil, or anything (and everything) fried in it. 2) I will not get hungry for lunch before 2 or 3 pm , nor for dinner until 11pm . When you finally do get to eat, two fabulous factors are in your favour. One, the food is not expensive and two, the Spanish love food. Try the local, Sevillano specialties like mojama (dried tuna fish known as ham of the sea) and salmorejo (thick gazpacho). And, of course, the classic, Spanish Tortilla.
MUST SEES
* Real Alcázar. This enchanting building was a fortress from the Muslim-era and later changed hands to become the home of Christian royalty for many centuries. Today the gardens, tapestries and varied architecture remain some of Seville ’s most appealing treasures.
* Plaza de España. A truly spectacular plaza, equal with any in the country. It was the centrepiece of the 1929 Spanish-Americas Fair and is an arc of tiled glory and historic handwork. Across the tree-lined road from the plaza is the enchanting Parque de María.
* A Flamenco Show. Seville is one of the legendary homes of flamenco. You can opt for a tourist-geared spectacular or a more intimate café setting. Recommended spectacular: El Tablao Flamenco Los Gallos.Recommended café: La Casa del Carmen
* Cathedral and the Giralda. The cathedral is the largest Gothic building in the world and the pride of Seville . The emblem of Seville is the Giralda, the weathercock that sits atop the Cathedral. You can climb the Giralda, which is in the form of a woman representing Faith, for spectacular city views.
* Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza Museum (Seville’s Bullring). This is one of the oldest bullrings in Spain . Check out the museum and definitely see a bullfight if possible.
* Museo de Bellas Artes ( Museum of Fine Art ) is categorised as a major worldscale museum and considered to house some of the greatest paintings in all of Spain .
In Seville , the spirit of Spain engulfs you. When I visited I felt naked without a flamenco frock on and pair of castanets in my hand. In this city, Spain ’s famous flavours are things very difficult to resist. And why on earth would you want to?
ENJOY!
* Cervecita: a social little glass of beer taken either at lunch or at dinner, or, delightfully, at both.
Sabtu, 09 Juli 2011
A TIME-TRAVEL POSTCARD...
"IT" (otherwise known as HD 36405.b) isn't your average "oddball" exo-solar planet made of rock that wobbles on its end & zips around a nearby star in less than 2.46 days.
"IT" (otherwise known as HD 36405.b) isn't your average "oddball" exo-solar planet made of rock that wobbles on its end & zips around a nearby star in less than 2.46 days.
Seeking a spot of serenity somewhere in the universe, I recently booked a deep-discount dodgy berth on the 'White Elephant Express Space Shuttle', to a little known place in a galaxy far, far away.
If truth be told, (after reading random excerpts from "The Itty Bitty Bunkum Book About Life, the Universe & Practically Everything Under the Sun Not To Mention Stuff Going On In Remote Galaxies), I was basically delirious. According to its noted author, Dr. Jarn Leffer, "IT is a 'must-see' for those with little time on their hands & a passionate interest in Innocuous Things."
Most linear thinkers have a great deal of difficulty even comprehending why on earth someone in their "right mind" would be interested in visiting a planet called "IT". Not being a linear thinker with an investment in the "right" answer, I didn't give a hoot. After all, what does one (who walks on water & listens to miffed mortals all day long) do for a frigging night off, now I ask you?
As planets go, "IT" is a ho-hum celestial pit-stop with perhaps one exception. the welcome notice that reads, "Cosmic Cowboys - Welcome to the furthest unexplored outreaches of the Galaxy . Home to the Flop Fairy & Oodles of Gadflies!"
"IT" is populated by colonies of giggling, green grasshoppers . What else would you expect to inhabit a far-flung, fantasy-challenged hellhole like this? But, what made "IT" strictly speaking a strange place was the fact that the inhabitants munch on green, biodegradable garbage bags for fun. Lacking masticating capabilities, the gadflies process their food by vigorously jumping up & down on it. No wonder they have no need for fast-food franchises, strip malls or landfills!
To put "IT" bluntly, life on "IT" is shy of a tittynope*. The jolly green grasshoppers & the carefully manicured green fairways with sand traps as far as the eye can see certainly make for an utterly harmless world. Regrettably, without a pair of golf clubs, a dimpled white ball, & the notion that 19th hole even exists on this planet -- "IT" is about as fun as bag of toads!
Anyway, I picked up this picturesque postcard of the blessed ballyhooing buglugs. they look perfectly happy but don't be deceived. In reality, they are a gang of glad-handing grasshoppers. they don't play golf, eat burgers, or drink beer -- & none can frost a rock! Come to think of it, apart from the company of bugs & the elusive flop fairy, this pathetic planet has precious little going for IT!!
Life Lesson 42: Remember to talk to your travel agent before ever embarking on a flight of fancy to a planet called "IT" in a galaxy named "Have-a-Nice-Day"!!
__________
If you need to know what those green, glad-handing grasshoppers from "IT" look like -- ask any four-year old, or failing that request some help from a Flying Saucer Club member.
*"Tittynope" for you whiffling word-peckers means "a small quantity of anything left over".
"IT" (otherwise known as HD 36405.b) isn't your average "oddball" exo-solar planet made of rock that wobbles on its end & zips around a nearby star in less than 2.46 days.
Seeking a spot of serenity somewhere in the universe, I recently booked a deep-discount dodgy berth on the 'White Elephant Express Space Shuttle', to a little known place in a galaxy far, far away.
If truth be told, (after reading random excerpts from "The Itty Bitty Bunkum Book About Life, the Universe & Practically Everything Under the Sun Not To Mention Stuff Going On In Remote Galaxies), I was basically delirious. According to its noted author, Dr. Jarn Leffer, "IT is a 'must-see' for those with little time on their hands & a passionate interest in Innocuous Things."
Most linear thinkers have a great deal of difficulty even comprehending why on earth someone in their "right mind" would be interested in visiting a planet called "IT". Not being a linear thinker with an investment in the "right" answer, I didn't give a hoot. After all, what does one (who walks on water & listens to miffed mortals all day long) do for a frigging night off, now I ask you?
As planets go, "IT" is a ho-hum celestial pit-stop with perhaps one exception. the welcome notice that reads, "Cosmic Cowboys - Welcome to the furthest unexplored outreaches of the Galaxy . Home to the Flop Fairy & Oodles of Gadflies!"
"IT" is populated by colonies of giggling, green grasshoppers . What else would you expect to inhabit a far-flung, fantasy-challenged hellhole like this? But, what made "IT" strictly speaking a strange place was the fact that the inhabitants munch on green, biodegradable garbage bags for fun. Lacking masticating capabilities, the gadflies process their food by vigorously jumping up & down on it. No wonder they have no need for fast-food franchises, strip malls or landfills!
To put "IT" bluntly, life on "IT" is shy of a tittynope*. The jolly green grasshoppers & the carefully manicured green fairways with sand traps as far as the eye can see certainly make for an utterly harmless world. Regrettably, without a pair of golf clubs, a dimpled white ball, & the notion that 19th hole even exists on this planet -- "IT" is about as fun as bag of toads!
Anyway, I picked up this picturesque postcard of the blessed ballyhooing buglugs. they look perfectly happy but don't be deceived. In reality, they are a gang of glad-handing grasshoppers. they don't play golf, eat burgers, or drink beer -- & none can frost a rock! Come to think of it, apart from the company of bugs & the elusive flop fairy, this pathetic planet has precious little going for IT!!
Life Lesson 42: Remember to talk to your travel agent before ever embarking on a flight of fancy to a planet called "IT" in a galaxy named "Have-a-Nice-Day"!!
__________
If you need to know what those green, glad-handing grasshoppers from "IT" look like -- ask any four-year old, or failing that request some help from a Flying Saucer Club member.
*"Tittynope" for you whiffling word-peckers means "a small quantity of anything left over".
Jumat, 08 Juli 2011
A Stag Weekend in Edinburgh
Reached a stagnant point in work? It’s time for you to treat yourself to a stag weekend in Edinburgh. Chillisauce will ensure that it turns up to be your best stag weekend till date. What’s more, all the stag weekends are custom made according to individual requirements. What are you waiting for? Just let Chillisauce know of your choice and relax as it prepares for you the vacation of a lifetime.
Reached a stagnant point in work? It’s time for you to treat yourself to a stag weekend in Edinburgh. Chillisauce will ensure that it turns up to be your best stag weekend till date. What’s more, all the stag weekends are custom made according to individual requirements. What are you waiting for? Just let Chillisauce know of your choice and relax as it prepares for you the vacation of a lifetime.
Exciting Stag Weekend Activities in Edinburgh
Just name it and you will get it! Edinburgh is filled with fun filled outdoor activities. Participate in the Extreme Quad Biking in Edinburgh and feel the excitement as you speed past the dense woodlands for about 1.5 hours. Experience the thrill of riding a 400cc Honda Pilot while you try the Off Road Karting. One of the most effective team building corporate events is the Paintball where you are given the feel of a real fighting experience with suit, paintball marker, mask and other equipments.
Well, that’s not all. Feast your stomach on a wide range of kebabs and other delicacies while watching some of the best comedy acts on stage at Comedy Club in Edinburgh. Got all your colleagues along with you? Well, you can surely go for a football match. Sounds good, doesn’t it? Chillisauce will arrange for a 5-a-side Football Tournament with a minimum of 3 games, comprising 45 minutes of football. The winning team gets a case of Carlsberg while all the players are treated to a delicious buffet. If you want to have more fun just check out Chillisauce’s corporate event planners in Edinburgh.
Water Activities in Edinburgh
Get prepared to fall in love with the crystal white waters of Perthshire while you are enjoying your stag weekend. As you go river rafting, suddenly there will be a 18 foot drop into the mystical Loch Faskally and you will feel as light as a bird. The river will take you for a joy ride along the Tay valley, through the hills and dense forests. You can also go for Canyoning on your stag weekend at Edinburgh where you will be taught the techniques of launching, flying, balancing and landing safely in the water.
Reviving Corporate Team Spirit at Edinburgh
The games are diverse, but the efforts are united. It’s a place where you feel the importance of each and every individual while working as a team. Stag weekend in Edinburgh is the best way to bring out the best in you and your team through rounds of exciting and thrilling outdoor activities.
Reached a stagnant point in work? It’s time for you to treat yourself to a stag weekend in Edinburgh. Chillisauce will ensure that it turns up to be your best stag weekend till date. What’s more, all the stag weekends are custom made according to individual requirements. What are you waiting for? Just let Chillisauce know of your choice and relax as it prepares for you the vacation of a lifetime.
Exciting Stag Weekend Activities in Edinburgh
Just name it and you will get it! Edinburgh is filled with fun filled outdoor activities. Participate in the Extreme Quad Biking in Edinburgh and feel the excitement as you speed past the dense woodlands for about 1.5 hours. Experience the thrill of riding a 400cc Honda Pilot while you try the Off Road Karting. One of the most effective team building corporate events is the Paintball where you are given the feel of a real fighting experience with suit, paintball marker, mask and other equipments.
Well, that’s not all. Feast your stomach on a wide range of kebabs and other delicacies while watching some of the best comedy acts on stage at Comedy Club in Edinburgh. Got all your colleagues along with you? Well, you can surely go for a football match. Sounds good, doesn’t it? Chillisauce will arrange for a 5-a-side Football Tournament with a minimum of 3 games, comprising 45 minutes of football. The winning team gets a case of Carlsberg while all the players are treated to a delicious buffet. If you want to have more fun just check out Chillisauce’s corporate event planners in Edinburgh.
Water Activities in Edinburgh
Get prepared to fall in love with the crystal white waters of Perthshire while you are enjoying your stag weekend. As you go river rafting, suddenly there will be a 18 foot drop into the mystical Loch Faskally and you will feel as light as a bird. The river will take you for a joy ride along the Tay valley, through the hills and dense forests. You can also go for Canyoning on your stag weekend at Edinburgh where you will be taught the techniques of launching, flying, balancing and landing safely in the water.
Reviving Corporate Team Spirit at Edinburgh
The games are diverse, but the efforts are united. It’s a place where you feel the importance of each and every individual while working as a team. Stag weekend in Edinburgh is the best way to bring out the best in you and your team through rounds of exciting and thrilling outdoor activities.
Kamis, 07 Juli 2011
A Stag Weekend Becomes A Moveable Feast
What happens in Eastern Europe stays in Eastern Europe. Or does it? One lucky stag spills the beans on his stag weekend in Tallinn, Estonia's thumping capital.
One Lucky Stag Has a Taste of Heaven in Estonia’s Thumping Capital
There’s a lot to love about a stag weekend in Tallinn. Right now all I could hear was ‘Void you like another beer?’, and all I could see was row upon row of straight, white, perfect Estonian teeth and long, shiny, blonde Estonian hair. The waitress, and owner of said teeth and hair, was asking for the trillionth time: ‘Beer. Do-you-want-another-one?’ Even though it was my stag night which made me emperor and overlord of all I surveyed, I couldn’t even muster eye contact and so just nervously spluttered out a well rehearsed ‘Jah!’ Sweet. Beer in the form of the fine ‘Le Coq Premium’ would be soon on its way and, well, I had to admit that my Estonian was coming along beautifully.
But before the beer could even be pulled from the beer pulling thing, before Miss Estonia could even return to service our table, the lights dimmed and there was a venerable hush. And after what had to be the slowest minute known to man, a vision appeared like a phoenix rising. Or something. Just 23 and a half hours earlier I had been arguing about the price of insulation batts in Reading Argos and now, before me stood – or rather lay -a moveable feast in every sense of the word. She was Tanya. She was 22. She was from Haapsalu. Or was it Hishpalaa? Somewhere west of the capital. She was naked. She had our dinner strategically placed on her 22 year old perfect Estonian body. She was very talented.
In Japan, this practice is called nyotaimori and the name literally means ‘adorned body of a woman’ and for the next three hours the unlimited beer flowed and me and my twenty-nine best friends wined, dined and hatched plans about escaping management consultancy and setting up our own bar in down town Tallinn. Or maybe we could open up an English school. Or an academy for young ladies wanting to be learned in the ways of contemporary British life. My Tallinn stag weekend was only half a day old and it was fast surpassing Skegness as my holiday destination of choice. We toasted to the Saku the finest Estonian lager to pass my lips, to Reading topping the table and to Tanya’s left thigh. We toasted to Tallinn’s remarkable ability to produce the highest concentration of the fit birds per square mile and, of course to me and my upcoming nuptials. We were still toasting when we left Tanya half covered in dessert and fig leaves and little else. We were toasting the magnificent delights of Tanya’s right thigh in a rather loud manner, lager and le Coqs in hand, when we noticed what seemed to be a troupe of troopers walking in our general direction.
Crazy-Tallinn-street-cleaners-who-just-couldn’t-part-with-their-soviet-army-fatigues (to them it would always be 1989). We toasted to 1989. To Berlin. To Gorbachev. To Reagan. To Yeltsin, who we were all sure was very certain of the infinite native delights of Estonia. To the greatest stag weekend ever. Thank you Tanya, wherever you may be, Tanan and Head ood! Thank you and good night. I will never look at grilled Greek pork in the same way again.
Peter Finlay spoke to Amalia Illgner. We are pleased to announce that Peter is now a happily married man with a house full of white goods in Reading.
Special Thanks to Chillisauce for organizing Peter's Tallinn stag weekend.
Now that's what we like to call service!
One Lucky Stag Has a Taste of Heaven in Estonia’s Thumping Capital
There’s a lot to love about a stag weekend in Tallinn. Right now all I could hear was ‘Void you like another beer?’, and all I could see was row upon row of straight, white, perfect Estonian teeth and long, shiny, blonde Estonian hair. The waitress, and owner of said teeth and hair, was asking for the trillionth time: ‘Beer. Do-you-want-another-one?’ Even though it was my stag night which made me emperor and overlord of all I surveyed, I couldn’t even muster eye contact and so just nervously spluttered out a well rehearsed ‘Jah!’ Sweet. Beer in the form of the fine ‘Le Coq Premium’ would be soon on its way and, well, I had to admit that my Estonian was coming along beautifully.
But before the beer could even be pulled from the beer pulling thing, before Miss Estonia could even return to service our table, the lights dimmed and there was a venerable hush. And after what had to be the slowest minute known to man, a vision appeared like a phoenix rising. Or something. Just 23 and a half hours earlier I had been arguing about the price of insulation batts in Reading Argos and now, before me stood – or rather lay -a moveable feast in every sense of the word. She was Tanya. She was 22. She was from Haapsalu. Or was it Hishpalaa? Somewhere west of the capital. She was naked. She had our dinner strategically placed on her 22 year old perfect Estonian body. She was very talented.
In Japan, this practice is called nyotaimori and the name literally means ‘adorned body of a woman’ and for the next three hours the unlimited beer flowed and me and my twenty-nine best friends wined, dined and hatched plans about escaping management consultancy and setting up our own bar in down town Tallinn. Or maybe we could open up an English school. Or an academy for young ladies wanting to be learned in the ways of contemporary British life. My Tallinn stag weekend was only half a day old and it was fast surpassing Skegness as my holiday destination of choice. We toasted to the Saku the finest Estonian lager to pass my lips, to Reading topping the table and to Tanya’s left thigh. We toasted to Tallinn’s remarkable ability to produce the highest concentration of the fit birds per square mile and, of course to me and my upcoming nuptials. We were still toasting when we left Tanya half covered in dessert and fig leaves and little else. We were toasting the magnificent delights of Tanya’s right thigh in a rather loud manner, lager and le Coqs in hand, when we noticed what seemed to be a troupe of troopers walking in our general direction.
Crazy-Tallinn-street-cleaners-who-just-couldn’t-part-with-their-soviet-army-fatigues (to them it would always be 1989). We toasted to 1989. To Berlin. To Gorbachev. To Reagan. To Yeltsin, who we were all sure was very certain of the infinite native delights of Estonia. To the greatest stag weekend ever. Thank you Tanya, wherever you may be, Tanan and Head ood! Thank you and good night. I will never look at grilled Greek pork in the same way again.
Peter Finlay spoke to Amalia Illgner. We are pleased to announce that Peter is now a happily married man with a house full of white goods in Reading.
Special Thanks to Chillisauce for organizing Peter's Tallinn stag weekend.
Now that's what we like to call service!
Rabu, 06 Juli 2011
A Smart And Safer Way To Carry Your Laptop In Tow
Laptops are a great investment. They provide an easier way to work and to have fun. Keeping that laptop in tiptop shape should be of importance to you as well. Here's what you should look for in choosing a great laptop bag or case.
Laptops are a great investment. They provide an easier way to work and to have fun. Keeping that laptop in tiptop shape should be of importance to you as well. Here's what you should look for in choosing a great laptop bag or case.
Laptops were made for convenience. With the advent of this technology, people have been able to work anytime and anywhere they feel like it, thanks to the invention of laptops.
Laptops can come in different designs and sizes. Some laptops are small and light fit for those working on the go. While other laptops are more conventional, slightly larger, and heavier, which work perfectly well for those who want to file and save as much work as possible and still be able to enjoy other activities like gaming in the same device.
People used to settle for the ordinary laptop bags this gadget typically comes along with. Others have even made use of their ordinary backpacks and ordinary totes to carry their laptops along with their other belongings. This is the time to stop this habit.
Carrying your laptop in inappropriate containers can be damaging to your laptop, not to mention the clutter it makes of your bag. In order to get the most out of your laptop in terms of function and warranty, you should start choosing the appropriate laptop bag that meets your varied needs.
There are various factors one should look for in a great laptop bag. This laptop bag should be able to keep you laptop safe, this is the first and most crucial factor. If your bag does not have the capability of protecting your laptop, it’s as if you just throw away the money you invested. Keep your laptop for as long as you want by keeping it safe and protected! A great laptop bag should always have a secure strap to keep that laptop in place. A second factor that a great laptop bag should have is enough storage space. By storage space, it means space for all your other belongings aside from your laptop, of course.
An ordinary bag won't do much of a good work in achieving this, although your everyday bag may contain enough storage space, it does not have the different compartments specific to different gadgets that can only be found in laptop bags and cases. Who said you could only carry your laptop in your laptop bag? Laptop bags and cases are specially designed to properly store all your other gadgets as well as your personal belongings in the proper places without compromising the safety of its main component – the laptop.
A third factor that is specific to laptop bags and cases is the durability of the material used. Your laptop contains most, if not all, the important files you have ever accumulated in your life, be it personally or professionally. It is only understandable that you should keep this in a bag that is durable and can withstand whatever terrain, whatever weather.
An example of this type of durable material is a new style of laptop bag that is waterproof, perfect for those rainy moments that you come unprepared for. The durability of the material used for laptop bags should also encompass its capability to properly separate one gadget from another. There is no use in storing your different stuff in one laptop bag if the material cannot prevent factors such as friction that could ruin not only the laptop but all the other gadgets you might be carrying. A laptop bag that has thick interior padding could help you achieve this.
The material of the laptop bag or case should be as lightweight as possible. You have enough burden of carrying all your stuff, a good laptop bag should not add to the weight you might be carrying. If your laptop bag has shoulder straps, these should be adjustable and afford a hefty amount of padding to protect your shoulders from the weight you are carrying. Finally, the greatest laptop bags and cases in the market are both stylish and functional! Not only is it good to look at but good to make use of, too!
Since there are different laptop bags and cases to choose from, you should be able to know what available designs there are and which of them are suitable to your personality and work. The most common style is the brief bag laptop bag. This type of bag offer a semi-formal means of carrying your laptop if you do not want to look too casual or too professional. Another style is the top loading laptop bag. This bag gives you an easier access to your laptop and to all your other gears inside, especially useful if you constantly have to go through security on your way to work and back home.
The casual types of laptop bag are the backpack laptop bag and the messenger style laptop bag. This is absolutely an inconspicuous way of carrying your laptop. If you don't want others to know those highly important gadgets you might be carrying inside, then these types of bag are the way to go. Rolling laptop bags are a great option especially if you are constantly on the go and you keep on being jostled around in a crowd along with your gadgets in tow. The rolling laptop bag keeps your gear safe and protected inside despite the circumstances going on outside.
For more gender specific types of laptop bags you can choose from ladies laptop bags or men’s laptop bags. If you are a woman and don’t want your femininity being compromised by all those extra baggage, a ladies laptop bag is perfect for you. If you are a man, on the other hand, and want to maintain your masculinity and professionalism, then men’s laptop bags are appropriate for you. Laptop bags also come in different sizes. It is important to know that you should never fit your laptop in a bag too small. This does not provide the proper ventilation for your laptop or you just can’t fit the laptop in it in the first place.
It's not just fun to choose a laptop, choosing the right bag is just as enjoyable and should be invested in, too.
Laptops are a great investment. They provide an easier way to work and to have fun. Keeping that laptop in tiptop shape should be of importance to you as well. Here's what you should look for in choosing a great laptop bag or case.
Laptops were made for convenience. With the advent of this technology, people have been able to work anytime and anywhere they feel like it, thanks to the invention of laptops.
Laptops can come in different designs and sizes. Some laptops are small and light fit for those working on the go. While other laptops are more conventional, slightly larger, and heavier, which work perfectly well for those who want to file and save as much work as possible and still be able to enjoy other activities like gaming in the same device.
People used to settle for the ordinary laptop bags this gadget typically comes along with. Others have even made use of their ordinary backpacks and ordinary totes to carry their laptops along with their other belongings. This is the time to stop this habit.
Carrying your laptop in inappropriate containers can be damaging to your laptop, not to mention the clutter it makes of your bag. In order to get the most out of your laptop in terms of function and warranty, you should start choosing the appropriate laptop bag that meets your varied needs.
There are various factors one should look for in a great laptop bag. This laptop bag should be able to keep you laptop safe, this is the first and most crucial factor. If your bag does not have the capability of protecting your laptop, it’s as if you just throw away the money you invested. Keep your laptop for as long as you want by keeping it safe and protected! A great laptop bag should always have a secure strap to keep that laptop in place. A second factor that a great laptop bag should have is enough storage space. By storage space, it means space for all your other belongings aside from your laptop, of course.
An ordinary bag won't do much of a good work in achieving this, although your everyday bag may contain enough storage space, it does not have the different compartments specific to different gadgets that can only be found in laptop bags and cases. Who said you could only carry your laptop in your laptop bag? Laptop bags and cases are specially designed to properly store all your other gadgets as well as your personal belongings in the proper places without compromising the safety of its main component – the laptop.
A third factor that is specific to laptop bags and cases is the durability of the material used. Your laptop contains most, if not all, the important files you have ever accumulated in your life, be it personally or professionally. It is only understandable that you should keep this in a bag that is durable and can withstand whatever terrain, whatever weather.
An example of this type of durable material is a new style of laptop bag that is waterproof, perfect for those rainy moments that you come unprepared for. The durability of the material used for laptop bags should also encompass its capability to properly separate one gadget from another. There is no use in storing your different stuff in one laptop bag if the material cannot prevent factors such as friction that could ruin not only the laptop but all the other gadgets you might be carrying. A laptop bag that has thick interior padding could help you achieve this.
The material of the laptop bag or case should be as lightweight as possible. You have enough burden of carrying all your stuff, a good laptop bag should not add to the weight you might be carrying. If your laptop bag has shoulder straps, these should be adjustable and afford a hefty amount of padding to protect your shoulders from the weight you are carrying. Finally, the greatest laptop bags and cases in the market are both stylish and functional! Not only is it good to look at but good to make use of, too!
Since there are different laptop bags and cases to choose from, you should be able to know what available designs there are and which of them are suitable to your personality and work. The most common style is the brief bag laptop bag. This type of bag offer a semi-formal means of carrying your laptop if you do not want to look too casual or too professional. Another style is the top loading laptop bag. This bag gives you an easier access to your laptop and to all your other gears inside, especially useful if you constantly have to go through security on your way to work and back home.
The casual types of laptop bag are the backpack laptop bag and the messenger style laptop bag. This is absolutely an inconspicuous way of carrying your laptop. If you don't want others to know those highly important gadgets you might be carrying inside, then these types of bag are the way to go. Rolling laptop bags are a great option especially if you are constantly on the go and you keep on being jostled around in a crowd along with your gadgets in tow. The rolling laptop bag keeps your gear safe and protected inside despite the circumstances going on outside.
For more gender specific types of laptop bags you can choose from ladies laptop bags or men’s laptop bags. If you are a woman and don’t want your femininity being compromised by all those extra baggage, a ladies laptop bag is perfect for you. If you are a man, on the other hand, and want to maintain your masculinity and professionalism, then men’s laptop bags are appropriate for you. Laptop bags also come in different sizes. It is important to know that you should never fit your laptop in a bag too small. This does not provide the proper ventilation for your laptop or you just can’t fit the laptop in it in the first place.
It's not just fun to choose a laptop, choosing the right bag is just as enjoyable and should be invested in, too.
Selasa, 05 Juli 2011
A Short History Of San Sebastian
Tourist information - San Sebastian
This city, also known as Donostia, lies along a white sandy bay between the Urgull and Igeldo hills. Fishermen's houses, a smart suburb and modern districts make it one of the most attractive cities on the Cantabrian coast. The Museum of San Telmo, the Peine de los Vientos (Comb of the Winds) and the Kursaal are examples of how the city brings together modern and traditional features. Meanwhile, the province of Guipuzcoa, of which San Se...
Tourist information - San Sebastian
This city, also known as Donostia, lies along a white sandy bay between the Urgull and Igeldo hills. Fishermen's houses, a smart suburb and modern districts make it one of the most attractive cities on the Cantabrian coast. The Museum of San Telmo, the Peine de los Vientos (Comb of the Winds) and the Kursaal are examples of how the city brings together modern and traditional features. Meanwhile, the province of Guipuzcoa, of which San Sebastián is the capital, blends sea and mountains, offering the traveller landscape, sports and cuisine, as well as interesting monuments. Basque cuisine has a recognised international prestige.
The town centre streets of San Sebastian unfold overlooking the La Concha Bay. Monte Igeldo marks one end of it - a wonderful vantage point for enjoying views over the city. At its feet is Torrepea Point, where the “Peine de los Vientos” ("Comb of the Winds"), a sculpture by the famous Basque artist Eduardo Chillida, is installed. Here Ondarreta beach begins, framed by a garden area and by the Pico del Loro. This was the place chosen by Queen Maria Cristina (18th C.) to build the Miramar Palace, her summer residence. A lovely promenade with elegant railings and street lamps runs along La Concha Beach, on whose sands is the Perla del Océano Bathing Area, a former royal bathing hut. Still looking at the sea, you arrive at the old Casino, nowadays the City Hall. In this area, between the sea and the River Urumea, is the old town and the way to Monte Urgull, the marina and the fishermen's district. The summit of Urgull is dominated by La Mota Castle and a representation of the Sacred Heart. One path takes you upwards while another skirts the hill and takes you along the breakwater.
In the oldest part of San Sebastián, the churches of San Vicente and Santa María del Coro await you, the former Gothic and the latter Renaissance-Baroque. An old Dominican convent is nowadays the San Telmo Museum, whose archaeological and ethnographic collections, together with its paintings, are worth a leisurely visit. These busy streets lead you to the porticoed Plaza de la Constitución. Among its many balconies - numbered and painted white, betraying its origin as a bullring - stands the old Neoclassical City Hall, converted into the Municipal Library.
La Alameda del Boulevard leads into the Romantic city, which emerged after the old walls were demolished. One the banks of the Urumea you can make out the Victoria Eugenia Theatre and the María Cristina Hotel, built in Neoplateresque style. Spread through this rationalist street pattern, you can also visit the Plaza de Guipúzcoa, with its gardens, the Provincial Government building, the Koldo Mitxeleria Cultural Centre and the Post and Telegraph Office. Also, San Sebastian Cathedral, el Buen Pastor, built in Neogothic style. Once again on the bank there are aristocratic houses from the beginning of the 20th century, leading to the María Cristina bridge, the most monumental of those crossing the river. Four lamps by the sculptor Mariano Benlliure light the way to the railway station, designed by Eiffel. On this side of the river are the modern districts of Eguía and Gros. On Gros Beach is the modern Kursaal structure, designed by the architect Rafael Moneo.
San Sebastián is a cosmopolitan city with a strong Basque character, which is clear in its cultural events. The "tamborrada" or "Semana Grande", with its fishing boat regatta, tells us something of the tradition; while its prestigious film and jazz festivals say a great deal about its international vocationAll these are occasions when it is well worth enjoying the city, although you will need to book accommodation in advance.
One of the best ways of touring its districts and approaching its culture is through the cuisine. Basque cookery has international prestige thanks to its raw materials and the skill of its cooks, who have both traditional and imaginative repertoires. It must be said that some of the most renowned restaurants in Spain are in San Sebastián. Recipes made with vegetables, fish and shellfish must always be accompanied by chacolí from Guetaria/Guetariako Txakolina, with its own Denomination of Origin.
The province of Guipúzcoa satisfies the tastes of any traveller, offering a long coastline of excellent beaches and fishing villages, while inland there are natural areas where you can find important historic towns. Going along the coast from France towards Vizcaya you will have the chance to visit the historic centre of Hondarribia/Fuenterrabia, declared a Historic-Artistic Monument, and to stay in its Parador de TurismoOther towns that combine interesting monuments with extensive beaches are Zarautz, Getaria, Deba and Mutriku.
Rivers and valleys lead you inland. Following the course of the Oria, the historic towns of Tolosa, Ordizia and Lazkao preserve important legacies of monuments. The Urola valley has the old town and spa of Cestona/Zestoa, the medieval streets of Azpeitia and the Sanctuary of San Ignacio de Loyola, a Baroque site that is the centre of Basque religious life. Bergara, one of the most smartest towns in Guipúzcoa, and the lovely houses of Elgeta unfold along the Deba valley.
In addition to this wealth of monuments, this Basque province has a natural heritage which is perfect for practising many low environmental impact sports. The Aitzkorri, Aralar, Aiako-Harria and Pagoeta natural parks also show us the quality of their ecosystems.
This city, also known as Donostia, lies along a white sandy bay between the Urgull and Igeldo hills. Fishermen's houses, a smart suburb and modern districts make it one of the most attractive cities on the Cantabrian coast. The Museum of San Telmo, the Peine de los Vientos (Comb of the Winds) and the Kursaal are examples of how the city brings together modern and traditional features. Meanwhile, the province of Guipuzcoa, of which San Se...
Tourist information - San Sebastian
This city, also known as Donostia, lies along a white sandy bay between the Urgull and Igeldo hills. Fishermen's houses, a smart suburb and modern districts make it one of the most attractive cities on the Cantabrian coast. The Museum of San Telmo, the Peine de los Vientos (Comb of the Winds) and the Kursaal are examples of how the city brings together modern and traditional features. Meanwhile, the province of Guipuzcoa, of which San Sebastián is the capital, blends sea and mountains, offering the traveller landscape, sports and cuisine, as well as interesting monuments. Basque cuisine has a recognised international prestige.
The town centre streets of San Sebastian unfold overlooking the La Concha Bay. Monte Igeldo marks one end of it - a wonderful vantage point for enjoying views over the city. At its feet is Torrepea Point, where the “Peine de los Vientos” ("Comb of the Winds"), a sculpture by the famous Basque artist Eduardo Chillida, is installed. Here Ondarreta beach begins, framed by a garden area and by the Pico del Loro. This was the place chosen by Queen Maria Cristina (18th C.) to build the Miramar Palace, her summer residence. A lovely promenade with elegant railings and street lamps runs along La Concha Beach, on whose sands is the Perla del Océano Bathing Area, a former royal bathing hut. Still looking at the sea, you arrive at the old Casino, nowadays the City Hall. In this area, between the sea and the River Urumea, is the old town and the way to Monte Urgull, the marina and the fishermen's district. The summit of Urgull is dominated by La Mota Castle and a representation of the Sacred Heart. One path takes you upwards while another skirts the hill and takes you along the breakwater.
In the oldest part of San Sebastián, the churches of San Vicente and Santa María del Coro await you, the former Gothic and the latter Renaissance-Baroque. An old Dominican convent is nowadays the San Telmo Museum, whose archaeological and ethnographic collections, together with its paintings, are worth a leisurely visit. These busy streets lead you to the porticoed Plaza de la Constitución. Among its many balconies - numbered and painted white, betraying its origin as a bullring - stands the old Neoclassical City Hall, converted into the Municipal Library.
La Alameda del Boulevard leads into the Romantic city, which emerged after the old walls were demolished. One the banks of the Urumea you can make out the Victoria Eugenia Theatre and the María Cristina Hotel, built in Neoplateresque style. Spread through this rationalist street pattern, you can also visit the Plaza de Guipúzcoa, with its gardens, the Provincial Government building, the Koldo Mitxeleria Cultural Centre and the Post and Telegraph Office. Also, San Sebastian Cathedral, el Buen Pastor, built in Neogothic style. Once again on the bank there are aristocratic houses from the beginning of the 20th century, leading to the María Cristina bridge, the most monumental of those crossing the river. Four lamps by the sculptor Mariano Benlliure light the way to the railway station, designed by Eiffel. On this side of the river are the modern districts of Eguía and Gros. On Gros Beach is the modern Kursaal structure, designed by the architect Rafael Moneo.
San Sebastián is a cosmopolitan city with a strong Basque character, which is clear in its cultural events. The "tamborrada" or "Semana Grande", with its fishing boat regatta, tells us something of the tradition; while its prestigious film and jazz festivals say a great deal about its international vocationAll these are occasions when it is well worth enjoying the city, although you will need to book accommodation in advance.
One of the best ways of touring its districts and approaching its culture is through the cuisine. Basque cookery has international prestige thanks to its raw materials and the skill of its cooks, who have both traditional and imaginative repertoires. It must be said that some of the most renowned restaurants in Spain are in San Sebastián. Recipes made with vegetables, fish and shellfish must always be accompanied by chacolí from Guetaria/Guetariako Txakolina, with its own Denomination of Origin.
The province of Guipúzcoa satisfies the tastes of any traveller, offering a long coastline of excellent beaches and fishing villages, while inland there are natural areas where you can find important historic towns. Going along the coast from France towards Vizcaya you will have the chance to visit the historic centre of Hondarribia/Fuenterrabia, declared a Historic-Artistic Monument, and to stay in its Parador de TurismoOther towns that combine interesting monuments with extensive beaches are Zarautz, Getaria, Deba and Mutriku.
Rivers and valleys lead you inland. Following the course of the Oria, the historic towns of Tolosa, Ordizia and Lazkao preserve important legacies of monuments. The Urola valley has the old town and spa of Cestona/Zestoa, the medieval streets of Azpeitia and the Sanctuary of San Ignacio de Loyola, a Baroque site that is the centre of Basque religious life. Bergara, one of the most smartest towns in Guipúzcoa, and the lovely houses of Elgeta unfold along the Deba valley.
In addition to this wealth of monuments, this Basque province has a natural heritage which is perfect for practising many low environmental impact sports. The Aitzkorri, Aralar, Aiako-Harria and Pagoeta natural parks also show us the quality of their ecosystems.