TRAVEL GUIDE

First Tourist Heading for Mars

2007-06-19T10:45:00.001-05:00

by: Pontus Edenberg
September 21, 2050 - At a press conference today it was announced that the first tourist heading for Mars will be the 38-year-old US businessman Patrick Clifford. He will leave the earth in the launching window of fall 2052 and set his foot on the surface of Mars in February 2053, together with the other 6 astronauts assigned for the mission to further explore the planet.
Patrick has now two years of training ahead of him to get ready for the trip. Not only will he spend five months in getting to Mars, but another 600 days there before he can go back home. Patrick was of course very excited: "This has been my dream since I was four, and seeing the first man on Mars 20 years ago made me realize that it was possible."

To be able to pay the US$ 1.3 billion for his ticket for the trip Patrick sold his majority stake in the business empire his father had built. "I know that my father would have been proud of me if he had still been alive today, he knew what this means to me", says Patrick. There is no risk though that you will find Patrick begging in your street corner when he comes back, rumors says that he was paid twice as much for his part of the company.

So, how is he going to spend his 600 days on the red planet? "Well, since I don't have a job when I get back after selling the company, I have plenty of time to come up with a new business idea", he says and laughs. If he brings a shovel he can start building the first hotel there, but maybe he shouldn't expect too many guests until someone can offer a lower transfer fare.

Pontus Edenberg is the editor of News of Future, a publication with news about space tourism, future technology, society, environment, health etc. People of the world are invited to comment on the news and take part in shaping their future.
newsoffuture.com

Beautiful Lake Garda Italy

2007-06-19T10:42:00.001-05:00

by: Christopher Panduro
The crystal clear waters of Lake Garda are perfect for swimming and many popular sports such as windsurfing and sailing. The local climate is softened by the presence of this large body of water, which makes it comfortable for exploring the towns and villages on and close to the lake towns such as Garda, Lazise, Sirmione, Torri del Benaco Bardolino, Limone and Peschiera which are wonderful places to visit with a great choice of hotels, villas and Holiday homes or just for wandering around the cobbled streets filled with shops, hotels and restaurants and are home to bustling lakeside markets.
Do visit the old port of Torbole, the charming old streets of Limone and the castle and Roman Villa in Sirmione.From Malcesine you can take a cable car onto Monte Baldo for some mountain walking and superb views. Walks on the lake shore from Lazie or Bardolino also help to work up an appetite.On the southern shore, jutting into lake garda, lays Sirmione with its quiet cobblestone streets, thermal baths, fairytale castle, olive groves and quaint hotels. Gazing across Lake Garda from the town of Desenzano on its southwest bank, the view is quite spectacular. Lake Garda’s has more in common with southern Italy. The Veronese east bank of the Lake produces olive oil and famous wines, such as Valpolicella and Bardolino.

Looming above the area is Mount Baldo with its three peaks. Projecting through the last glacial sheet, its unique flora is a throwback to pre-glacial times.The rich soil and mild climate of the lake area encourages an abundance of wildlife and flora. Cedars, olives, lemon and palm trees flourish and the Gorgeous shoreline offers pristine beaches. Numerous ancient castles dot the hillsides. The cablecar ride to Monte Baldo provides magnificent views of Lake Garda and the mountains beyond.

www.lakegarda.biz hopes you will enjoy your visit and will find our web site useful, please feel free to contact us if you have any more questions regarding the lake.

Christopher Panduro
Moved to Lake Garda from the UK 13 Years ago. I fell in love with the Lake and decided to create a website www.lakegarda.biz about it.

Montjuïc - Best View in Spain

2007-06-19T10:41:00.002-05:00

by: Jakob Jelling
The mountain of Montjuic juts over Barcelona's port on one face, and on the other side overhangs the Placa Espanya. With this location, it is ideal for playing. The mountain became the central mark of the World Fair of 1929 and the 1992 Olympic games. It's beautiful and green, still forested and covered in parks. Montjuic is popular with pedestrians and cyclists of all kinds because of its extensive and green paths. Barcelona has recently started working on installing walkways and escalators to connect visitors to the harder-to-navigate sections.
Among these sections is the Font del Gat, once a fashionable modernista cafe designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch. Today, it's an information and visitors center and restaurant, and a great starting place to explore Montjuic. Also in the tall mountain you'll find some of the best museums in Barcelona like the MNAC and the Miro Foundation.

The most popular attraction around Montjuic is the Magic Fountain, or Font Magica. In daytime, the grand fountain beneath the MNAC staircase seems ordinary, but after dark, you'll see the magic part. Music blasts from loudspeakers, and varicolored lighting illuminates the dancing waters of the fountain. Carles Buigas designed it for the 1929 World Fair, and it's perfect for watching from one of the cafes surrounding it. Shows run throughout the summer, from May to October on Thursday through Sunday after dark. (at other times of the year, they're held only on Friday and Saturday after dark).

If you want to visit the Castell de Montjuic on the sea side of the mountain, your best choice is via the cable car, the Transbordador Aeri, that runs across the port. It runs daily from 10:30 AM to 7 PM.

Once you're settled on Montjuic, there's plenty to see and do.

What to Do

At the CaixaForum, you can view rotating diverse art exhibitions on three floors of a building that used to be a textile factory designed by modernista architect Puig i Cadalfach. Later, Japanese architect Arata Isozaki added a walkway, courtyard, and entrance to set off the art stored within. At any given time, you're also likely to find performances related to the art being exhibited, especially world music and modern dance, and there's an excellent bookstore in the foyer. You can find more modern art at the Fundacio Joan Miro, devoted to the master of contemporary Catalan art. The Miro collection, donated by the artist, is so large that only part of it can be displayed at any given time. If you're not familiar with Miro, the audioguide you can pick up at the front desk will help you understand the depth and breadth of this master's works. In sports-mad Barcelona, you'll also find the Galeria Olimpica, a museum devoted to the games held in 1992. This museum is located in the cellar of the old Olympic Stadium.

But in a lovely setting like Montjuic, you don't want to be indoors all the time. The Jardi Botanic opened in 1999, but has already received international admiration for landscaping and concept. Most species are Mediterranean, or from a similar climate like Australia and California, and the park is divided into regions for each area. The telecommunications aerial, rather than detracting from the beauty, is designed to blend with the landscaping, and because of the way it leans, it acts as a giant sundial.

The Poble Espanyol will keep you outside. It's a recreated Spanish village built for the 1929 World Fair and has almost a Disneyish feel. You can find over a hundred styles of Spanish architecture in one tiny spot, from the Levante to Galicia and Castilian high gothic. The entrance, a facsimile of the gateway to Avila, leads you to the center of the village, where you can have drinks at the outdoor cafe, or visit the flamenco taberna and other nightspots. Provincial crafts and souvenirs are sold everywhere, and you can see artisans handprinting fabric, making pottery, or blowing glass. Though some see this as a tourist trap, if you won't be able to see much of Spain outside Barcelona this is a good choice for finding almost everything you're interested in.

And history, of course, is not neglected. The Museu Militar de Montjuic is found inside the Castell de Montjuic, a fortress dating back to the 1600s that overlooks the sea. The collection is a treasury of military artifacts from armor to weapons to accoutrements to military art, and the fortress itself provides breathtaking views of the Barcelona skyline and the sea. The Museu d'Arquelogia de Catalunya occupies the former Palace of Graphic Arts of the 1929 World Fair. It surveys the long history of Barcelona, from the Iberian prehistory to the Greek, Roman, and Carthaginian periods, including many artifacts that were unearthed very close by. On the floor, you'll find actual mosaics moved here from the places where they were unearthed; the curators invite visitors to walk over them, as they believe using them as they were intended provides better preservation for them.

There is much more to do on MOntjuic, including visiting the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalynya (MNAC) or the Pavello Mies van der Rohe. Your best bet: go early, and don't have a set agenda. Enjoy exploring MOntjuic.

Places to Stay

Montjuic, hampered by a lack of amenities like water, has few homes but many pleasant places to visit. One place to try is the Hotel Torre Catalunya, a skyscraper-style four-star hotel with excellent amenities. Its restaurant, the Ciudad Condal, offers gorgeous views of the city from the 23rd floor. You'll also find a Spa, health center, and many other amenities here.

At Montjuic's base you'll find the Hotel Fira Palace, which opened in time for the 1992 Olympics and has excellent access to the exhibition centers of Plaza Espanya. Family accomodations are unmatched in the area. Restaurants are expensive, so you may want to try outside the hotel, but the amenities, like a piano bar, massage, service, and patio garden, are unique.

Jakob Jelling is the founder of Eurotomic.com. Please visit http://www.eurotomic.com/spain.php if you're planning a trip to Spain.

Wut's Up, Doc?

2007-06-19T10:41:00.001-05:00

by: Aleister Q. Fleming
What is it about the classic doctor’s bag that people seem to love so much? Is it the utilitarian design? Is it the inherent functionality? Or is it something to do with nostalgic sentiment and a need to connect with the past?
Fashion designers and fashionistas everywhere seem to be quite taken with these bags. Many of the leading Italian fashion houses such as Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, and Fendi are now producing bags inspired by the classic doctor’s bag. People just seem to love them!

If these bags strike your fancy, but spending hundreds of dollars on a handbag is not in your budget, there are a number of options available to you. Why not consider looking around your local antique market? Many a prized possession has been discovered in out-of-the-way antique markets.

As well, you might consider visiting the vintage clothing shops in your area. Be sure to speak with the shop keepers or their employees in these stores. Chances are, if they don’t have it, they can get it!

A quick internet search for these products will also yield plenty of results. There are a number of websites out there dedicated to handbags and other such products. If what you are truly looking for is a tried-and-true old school doctor’s bag, why not explore your options on E-Bay? There is no doubt you will find what you are looking for at the world’s biggest garage sale! Who knows? You might even pay next-to-nothing for it.

Apart from the classic leather doctor’s bag, these bags come in a variety of colors and materials. Bags made from vinyl, canvas, nylon, plastic are all over the marketplace. Then there are others that are made from exotic materials, such as alligator or ostrich leather. The choice of materials available for handbags is limited only by your imagination.

In my humble opinion there is no substitute for the classic leather doctor’s bag! There is just something wonderfully alluring about these bags. Is it the smell of the leather? Is it the weight of the bag? I just don’t know. I’ll have to give it some thought, and get back to you.

Aleister Q. Fleming has been in love with handbags since he was a little boy. He is currently a student at NYU, and he is in the design stages of his own line of handbags. In his spare time, he does freelance writing for a number of websites including http://www.designerhandbags101.com – a site that offers info about http://www.designerhandbags101.com/designer-handbags/etienne-aigner.aspx aigner purses, http://www.designerhandbags101.com/designer-handbags/louis-vuitton.aspx vuitton handbags and http://www.designerhandbags101.com/designer-handbags/chanel.aspx chanel handbags.

The Essential Normandy- 8 Must-See Venues

2007-06-19T10:40:00.001-05:00

by: Walter B. Ballenberger
To fully understand Normandy, one has to visit more than WWII sites and museums. To experience this region and understand its history and culture, one should visit these eight venues:
1. Honfleur- This picturesque little port village has been a magnet for artists for years, including the French impressionists. The cobblestone streets of the town and the old basin full of sailboats are especially gorgeous. One can visit the many shops and galleries, and there are excellent restaurants nearly everywhere. There are several museums and unique old wooden churches to see as well.

A drive of about a half-hour to Deauville and Trouville is also worth the effort. Walk the famous boardwalk in Deauville, which has hosted the annual American Film Festival for years, and observe the interesting architecture of the huge beach houses, unique in Europe. On the way to or from Deauville, stop at a cider/calvados tasting location. Several are marked along the road. Grapes are not grown in Normandy to make wine, as the local beverages are made mostly from apples or sometimes pears. The cider is fizzy and has only about one-third the alcohol of wine. It goes well with a local favorite, moules-frites (mussels and fries). Calvados is brandy made from apples. Speaking of food, Normandy is famous for its dairy products, and you’ll no doubt sample the butter (this is one of the few places in France where one is encouraged to butter bread) and cheeses, especially the three Normands (“les trois Normands”) camembert, pont l‘eveque, and livarot.

2. Caen- This city was rubble after the bombings of WWII. The Caen Memorial is easily the best of the WWII museums. There are many WWII museums throughout Normandy, and some are almost tacky, with only a handful of old pictures and a few old uniforms and medals. This one is first class and tells the story of the events leading up to WWII and the Battle of Normandy. The film is also first rate and shows the American and German sides preparing for the invasion and then after the battles began. There is also a display honoring Nobel Peace Prize winners. One can easily spend half a day at this museum. Downtown Caen is also very pleasant, especially the pedestrian street with its many shops and cafes. One can also visit the chateau, constructed by William the Conqueror, and several impressive abbeys and churches.

3. Bayeux- This city was not badly damaged in WWII as the Germans retreated to defend Caen. The cathedral is imposing and is among the top gothic cathedrals in France. The main attraction in the town, however, is the famous Bayeux Tapestry. This remarkable work, commissioned shortly after the conquests of England in 1066, tells the story of William the Conqueror and the Battle of Hastings. It was originally meant to hang in the cathedral. It is only 19 inches high, but it’s length is 203 ft. It is remarkably well preserved. Be sure to see the film, and rent an audio player to use while viewing the tapestry to get the most out of your visit.

4. Omaha Beach/American Cemetery- For Americans, this is hallowed ground. People from other countries, Canada and Britain, for example, might prefer to visit the sectors of their soldiers, such as Sword, Gold and Juno beaches which are several miles to the east. There are numerous British, Canadian, German, and other cemeteries throughout Normandy as well. I was originally not excited to visit the American cemetery, thinking it would be a deflating experience. However, when one sees the fabulous white marble headstones and the meticulously kept grounds (the grounds are owned and maintained by the U.S. government) it is clear that there is huge respect for our fallen countrymen. To understand what these men did and the ultimate sacrifice they made in France makes one proud. The largest of the two American cemeteries at Colleville-sur-Mer looks directly over Omaha Beach. (The other is at St. James, farther to the west, and is also worth a visit, although not many people go there. It‘s about half the size of Colleville and unique in its own way). Leaving the parking lot at Colleville, one can see a small monument to the American 1st Infantry Division, the Big Red 1, which was responsible for that sector on D-Day. This is also worth a quick visit.

The best way to truly understand what happened at Omaha is to take a tour with an expert. We have used the services of Col. Oliver Warman, British Army Retired. Col. Warman will take you to places must tours don’t visit, and he has intimate stories about what took place there on D-Day, when several thousand American soldiers lost their lives (the official figure is in the hundreds). He’ll take you from the hills overlooking the beaches down to the beaches themselves and explain how effective the German defenses were, especially the 12 machine gun nests that spanned Omaha.

5. Arromanches- It was here that a huge artificial floating port was erected. The Germans knew the Allies would need a large port, and all of those in France were heavily defended. The sections of the port were constructed in England and were floated across the English channel just after D-Day. The museum has an excellent model of the port and a good film. There is also a 360 degree theater on the hill overlooking the town. This film is one of my favorites, and it show scenes of the area, both during the Battle of Normandy and then contrasted with how they look today.

6. Pointe du Hoc- At this strategic location American Rangers scaled the cliff walls on D-Day. There are bomb craters everywhere, destroyed German bunkers, and one gets a feeling of how difficult the fighting must have been. There were many casualties, and the Americans were almost driven back over the cliffs, but for some still unknown reason the Germans pulled the big guns back from the point to the rear. These were found unguarded by an American patrol, and they were quickly destroyed. If you take a tour with Col. Warman, as described above, he can take you here as well, and his perspective and stories about this location are more than worth the price.

7. Utah Beach- I was surprised to learn that the fighting here was much less intense than at Omaha, and the number of casualties here on D-Day was low, only about 15 KIA before noon. It is, however, a big part of the American D-Day story and therefore worth some time. The museum is reasonably good as well, and the grounds, again owned and maintained by the U.S. government, are well kept.

8. Mont St. Michel- This spectacular setting on the border between Normandy and Brittany is one of the most popular tourist locations in Europe. The island village is dominated by the cathedral at the top. At certain times of the year the tides are high enough to surround the island by the sea. If possible, spend a night on the island itself, and you’ll have a chance to wander around without the normal crowds. The shops are mostly tourist traps, but Mont St. Michel is worth a day. There are hikes and horse-back excursions one can take as well.

The above general itinerary goes from east to west and will take nearly a week. There are of course other venues in Normandy to visit. The eight listed above, however, will give you a fulfilling experience, and upon completion you’ll be able to say that you have truly experienced and understand the culture and significance of this outstanding region.

Walter B. Ballenberger is founder of Beaux Voyages, which provides active tours in France including bike tours in Normandy and other regions, wine tours, and Tour de France bike tours. He has lived and worked in France and speaks the language fluently.
France travel planned and not sure what venues to visit? Get FREE ADVICE from Beaux Voyages

beauxvoyages.com

The Future Of Travels Is The Quest For Authenticity

2007-06-19T10:39:00.001-05:00

by: Trent Lott
In his novel "Timeline", Michael Crichton has one of his characters saying:
"Today, everybody expects to be entertained, and they expect to be entertained all the time. Business meetings must be snappy, with bullet lists and animated graphics, so executives aren't bored. Malls and stores must be engaging, so they amuse as well as sell us. Politicians must have pleasing video personalities and tell us only what we want to hear. Schools must be careful not to bore young minds that expect the speed and complexity of television.

Sooner or later, the artifice of entertainment - constant, ceaseless entertainment - will drive people to seek authenticity. Authenticity will be the buzzword of the twenty-first century. And what is authentic? Anything that is not controlled by corporations. Anything that is not devised and structured to make a profit. Anything that exists for its own sake, that assumes its own shape. And what is the most authentic of all? The past.

The past is a world that already existed before Disney and Murdoch and British Telecom and Nissan and Sony and IBM and all the other shapers of the present. The past was here before they were. The past rose and fell without their intrusion and molding. The past is real. It's authentic. And this will make the past unbelievably attractive. Because the past is the only alternative to the corporate present.

What will people do? They are already doing it. The fastest-growing segment of travel today is cultural tourism. People who want to visit not other places, but other times. People who want to immerse themselves in medieval walled cities, in vast Buddhist temples, Mayan pyramid cities, Egyptian necropolises. People who want to walk and be in the world of the past. The vanished world.

And they don't want it to be fake. They don't want it to be made pretty, or cleaned up. They want it to be authentic."

Agreed.

[Copyright 2005 Travels.affari.to - http://travels.affari.to/news/45.htm]

Trent Lott is a travel editor at www.travels.affari.to, part of the Affari.to network. Travels.affari.to publishes travel stories, travel news and hosts a travel forum.

Adventure Travel on Horseback

2007-06-19T10:33:00.000-05:00

by: Bayard Fox
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.

Bayard Fox has been riding for 70 years on six continents and has ridden enough miles to circle the globe several times. He is owner and founder of Equitours Worldwide Horseback Riding Vacations (www.ridingtours.com). He and his wife also own the Bitterroot Dude Ranch (www.bitterrootranch.com) where they raise and train Arabian horses. Bayard has been leading and organizing riding tours for 35 years.
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 opportunities in California

2007-06-19T10:32:00.002-05:00

by: Loreal Oliver
This article is brought to you by http://www.adventuretraveltips.com
If you are an adventure sports junkie and live for the next travel adventure that will give you an adrenaline rush, then try hiking in sunny California. You might have gone hiking before, but once you get a taste of the California hiking you wont want to go anywhere else.

California offers hiking trails through almost all imaginable and existing natural environs from high majestic mountains, beautiful alpine lakes, granite gorges, basalt formations, streaming rivers, to awe inspiring meadows and waterfalls.

The most fascinating, adventurous and popular hiking trails range from a hike through the legendary Yosemite National Park, through the scenic Devils Postpile National Monument, circling the famous rainbow falls; narrow trails in the Ansel Adams Wilderness and unforgettable hikes through desolation wilderness, bordering lake Tahoe.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite national park established in 1890 has some of the most challenging but beautiful hiking trails in California. The diverse trails can take you from a reconstructed Indian village; the banks of the Merced River; meadows surrounded by majestic mountains; to surging and cascading waterfalls and wondrous rock formations.

With over 840 miles of trail in the Yosemite national park, you can take your pick from a hike around the bottom of the valley or ones with a little elevated trail for the more adventurous hikers. Whichever way you decide to go, don’t forget to carry enough water and warm clothes with you to enjoy your trip.

Devils Postpile National Monument

Devils Postpile National Monument, located on the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada was established in 1911. This national monument is home to the awe-inspiring basalt formations and the spectacular 101 foot high rainbow falls. The monument has several hiking trails culminating both these features as also the Joaquin River, flowing by. With camping facilities in a meadow, near minaret falls, soda springs and the actual basalt formations, the trails are ideal for families. The views that you get from almost every trail are breathtakingly beautiful.

The only precaution you’ll have to take is, use a metal bear box for storing food, as this is bear country.

Ansel Adams Wilderness

The Ansel Adams wilderness earlier known as Minarets Wilderness is located south of the Yosemite national park. The wilderness offers spectacular hikes through granite ridges surrounded by immaculate alpine flora and fauna. The trails lead through beautifully preserved and unspoiled lakes, where you can also enjoy fishing, summit hikes to any of the hills, or a trail on the edges of the San Joaquin River. The Pacific Crest and John Muir trails are some of the most popular hiking trails in this area. Other picturesque destinations are: 1,000 Island Lake, Garnet Lake, silver lake and Banner and Ritter Peaks.

Keep adequate supply of food, shelter and fishing gear on your must carry list when hiking in the Ansel Adams wilderness.

Desolation Wilderness

Desolation wilderness, located west of the Tahoe River is another great hiking area in the state of California. Some of the most popular hiking trails in desolation wilderness are: Wrights trail, Lake Sylvia, Velma Lakes trails, Fallen Leaf and Eagle Falls trails. With more than a 100 lakes and innumerable streams, fishing activities can also be arranged.

A visitor’s permit is required to visit the desolation wilderness all year round. Also, keep a portable stove with you to cook food, as open fires are not allowed.

So, get packing and explore the many wonderful hiking experiences that California has to offer.

To see more hiking related sites go to http://www.adventuretraveltips.com/Hiking/North_America/U_S_A_/index.html

Loreal Oliver is an adventurous traveler and the editor of travel websites including http://www.adventuretraveltips.com. He travels extensively around the world since the age of 17 and never gets tired. There are few places unexplored by him and he is always ready for another adventure.

10 Best Activities Hawaii Has To Offer

2007-06-19T10:32:00.001-05:00

by: Stephanie Coburn
You can read a hundred of the “10 Best Activities Hawaii has to Offer” and find as many lists with differing information. This is not because the lists are wrong, it is simply because there are so many amazing activities to do in Hawaii that each list maker can only include their top 10 favorites, which is why there are so many differences. Here are 10 more of the best activities in Hawaii, but they are generalizations that appeal to the general population and tourists heading to the islands for vacation. So, the best thing to do is read this list and rank the activities you like most and call and make reservations before your vacation begins. Then, when you reach the islands you can look around, check out other activities, and either choose more on this list or some of your own. Remember, there are several islands that make up Hawaii and all of them have special activities. The goal is for you to have the most fun possible and enjoy your Hawaiian vacation.
Hawaii Activity #1 Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay, on the island of Oahu, boasts an amazing coral reef that is simply out of this world. There are many fish species that call Hanauma Bay and the coral reef their home, which makes for incredible snorkeling. In fact, so many people snorkel at Hanauma Bay that it often gets quite crowded. So, if you want to snorkel at Hanauma Bay you should get there early or find out which days are the slowest in order to enjoy this fabulous experience.

Hawaii Activity #2 Hawaii Volcanoes

The Volcanoes National Park on the main island of Hawaii is out of this world. When you visit this park you will encounter 330,000 acres preserved for hiking and the like, as well as Mona Lau volcano that is dormant and the active, lava flowing Kilauea volcano. You will be impressed to see the red, hot glow of lava oozing out of this volcano. Spend a few hours or even a few days in The Volcanoes National Park.

Hawaii Activity #3 Maui Drive

Take the road from the Kahului Airport all the way to Hana and you will pass over countless bridges, enjoy the beautiful landscape where you will see pineapples growing and proceed through the tropical rainforest where other amazing fruits grow in addition to eucalyptus trees. It takes several hours to make this short drive, but near the end you will be blessed with the vision of black sand beaches that are simply astonishing in their beauty. When you finally end up in Hana you can enjoy excursions to waterfalls as well as great hikes.

Hawaii Activity #4 Waimea Canyon

On the island of Kauai is the Waimea Canyon which is simply a breathtaking experience. The canyon is so large and colorful that Mark Twain dubbed it the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” You will love the adventure and scenery at Waimea Canyon so you must include this on your vacation “to do” list.

Hawaii Activity # 5 Waikiki Beach

If you are looking for a luxurious resort and a relaxing beach, then Waikiki Beach is the place for you. In fact, the majority of the resorts are located on Waikiki which was made popular in the 1800s by Hawaiian royalty who frequented the area for its beautiful beaches. This area is certainly not economical, but every type of luxury you can imagine is available to you.

Hawaii Activity #6 Kona

The Kona coast is also a great resort location and its beaches are fabulous for sun bathing and other beach activities, as well as fishing and even snorkeling. As a result, many people vacation at Kona because there are so many activities available in one place. There are also coffee plantations that produce the natural and organic Kona coffee so you could always take a tour to see how coffee is grown, processed, and ultimately packaged and sold. Whatever you decide to do, Kona has a lot of options.

Hawaii Activity # 7 Na’Pali Coast

The island of Kauai boasts the Na’Pali Coast which is one of nature’s wonders. The towering cliffs originate on the ocean’s floor and ascend from the water to create amazing gorges created by waterfalls streaming down over centuries and eroding the stone. You can hike to the Na’Pali coast, but this might take all day. There are other options like boat tours and helicopter rides that will also allow you to reach Na’Pali without so much effort if you are not in the best physical condition to walk 11 miles or don’t have that much time to spare.

Hawaii Activity #8 Iao Valley

This cloud covered valley on the island of Maui provides a historical lesson for tourists because this flourishing valley was the home to the agricultural god, Lono, and during feast week the Hawaiians all joined together in the Iao Valley to honor Lono. You will be amazed at the shape of the valley and the general feeling you have of history when you visit this amazing place on Maui.

Hawaii Activity #9 Go Whale Watching

Whale watching can be a spectacular experience so you should definitely include this in your itinerary. There are whale watching tours that can be booked from Hawaii, Kauai, Oahu, or Maui. You should book in advance, however, because these tours can get filled up quickly and don’t happen year round!

Hawaii Activity #10 Luau

When people think of Hawaii the first thing that comes to their mind is the luau. As a result, when you visit the islands you absolutely must attend a Polynesian luau to top off your vacation. You will enjoy the food, music, dance, and sites of the luau and it will be an experience that will stay with you long after your vacation ends and you return to your real life.

When you visit the islands you will not have enough time to do all the amazing activities waiting for you. However, you should pick the ones you find most interesting and save the rest for subsequent vacations. When you visit Hawaii, you are sure to be enchanted and engaged.

Stephanie Coburn is the Marketing Director for Wailua Bay View, an oceanfront Kauai vacation rental. She has personally researched and experienced many of the activities and destinations graced with Hawaiian culture as described above. Learn more at http://www.wailuabay.com.

A few Easy Steps to an Affordable, Hassle-Free RV Trip

2007-06-19T10:31:00.001-05:00

by: Graham Richards
Recreation vehicles (RVs) are "hot and getting hotter" in the current travel climate, says Arthur Frommer, one of the world’s leading authorities on travel. "Concerned about the safety of air and cruise travel, eager to remain within the borders of Southern Africa, multitudes of South Africans are turning to these elaborate lodging machines that carry the comforts of home onto the highways and campgrounds of South Africa," writes Frommer in his recent online column for MSNBC and Arthur Frommer’s Budget Travel.
According to Recreation Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA), factory-to-dealer shipments of RVs increased by 20 percent last year and are expected to reach a 25-year high in 2003. As more South Africans opt for driving vacations, many are trying RVing for the first time. They’re discovering the freedom, flexibility and control that RVs offer.

With an RV, you’re free to go where you want, when you want—without the hassles of tight schedules, long lines at the airport and luggage restrictions. There are thousands of RV parks and campgrounds located along scenic routes and inter provinces, in cities and small towns—many offering resort-like amenities such as golf courses, tennis courts and lush landscapes. South Africa has one of the best camper parks in the world.

Travelers feel right at home on the road, because RVs are fully equipped with living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens and baths. For added comfort, RVs also have rooms that slide out at the push of a button to create extra living space.

For those thinking about RVing for the first time, RVIA offers these 7 easy steps to get started:

1. Surf the web. If you are interested in camper hire, Helderberg Camper Hire offers the best rates on camper rental in South Africa. Their motorhome hire is also close to the airport. Motorhome Rental allows potential buyers to try RV travel and determine which type of unit best suits their needs. RV rental costs vary depending on the season and size of the unit. The motorhome is the most popular rental model. Helderberg Camper Hire also offers 4x4 Rentals in additional to class-B motorhomes.

2. Read RV buyers’ guides and books. Visit a local bookstore or library. Or search for RV travel books to purchase online.

3. Visit an RV dealer. Helderberg Camper Hire would love to assist you.

4. Do the math. RV travel is affordable. A family of four traveling by RV can spend up to 70 percent less than traveling by car, plane or cruise ship. Campground fees are well below average hotel/motel room rates.

5. Take your pick of RV parks and campgrounds. It’s easy to find campgrounds with settings and amenities to suit your taste. Campground directories available at bookstores and public libraries provide nationwide listings and comparative information on fees and facilities.

6. Get going. The RV driving experience is different, not difficult. With a little practice and proper attention to differences in size, height and weight, RVs are fun and easy to drive.

7. Talk to us - We would love to assist you in any way that we can. Just give us a call or email us. Details are found on our camper hire website.

Article written on 12 September 2005. Feel free do display this article anywhere on the Internet if you find good use for it.

Please leave this link intact: http://www.helderbergcamperhire.co.za

Graham has been writing travel related articles / E-Books / for many years ans specializes in South African Travel.
Please see http://www.helderbergcamperhire.co.za - for all you need to know about motorhome rentals.

Daytona Beach Florida is a Golfer’s Paradise

2007-06-19T10:30:00.001-05:00

by: Rose Lenk
If you say the words Daytona Beach to a person with even a minimal amount golf knowledge, more than likely their mind's eye will draw up images of unending, gorgeous golf courses and fantasies of some of the best golfing that can be found anywhere in the world. And there is a good reason why that is so.
Daytona Beach is fast becoming recognized, not for its beaches and unsurpassed nightlife, but for the fun that it offers on the green. In fact, Daytona Beach is so interconnected with this sport, that it is rapidly becoming known as Florida's golf capital and is the new home of the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA), which recently moved their headquarters to Daytona from Texas.

Boasting of more than 30 golf courses including 20 championship golf courses, one could view Daytona as a sea of green and a golfer's paradise. From beginner courses to advanced courses, Daytona's golfing scene has an attraction for every golfing enthusiast no matter what his or her experience level.

Daytona's championship golf courses line the 23-mile expanse of the Daytona Beach coastline. With temperatures averaging little more than 70 degrees, Daytona's golf courses are ideal for spending an entire day on the green. And with great restaurants, resorts and area attractions nearby, a golfing vacation to Daytona is one that the whole family can enjoy.

One of the most popular golfing spots of the Daytona Beach area is Pelican Bay. This 18-hole champion golf course, designed by Lloyd Clifton, winds through a wilderness area complete with a series of water canals and lakes. This course is also visited often by area wildlife so you may just find yourself enjoying more than a relaxing round of golf under the Florida sun.

Another popular course among golfers is the Spruce Creek Country Club. Consisting of nearly 7,000 yards of fairways, lakes and greens, the Spruce Creek Country Club's course, designed by Bill Amick, sports 18 holes and perfectly manicured grounds.

And golfing at one of the more than 30 golf courses in the Daytona Beach is very affordable when it's not free. That's right, free. During the months of May through October, Daytona hosts a free golfing program where you can golf for free on many of the premier courses in the Daytona Beach area. This program is sponsored by the Golf Daytona Beach organization and is a favorite among die-hard golfers because greens fees can really add up if you golf everyday. The program works like this: If you stay at a participating hotel for two or more consecutive nights, you'll get a free round of golf for each day of your stay. You must play after noon, and cart fees are extra, but with greens fees averaging $30 per day, the free golf program is an exceptional deal.

While golfing for free everyday would be nice, it's not always possible. Some actually have to pay to play a round of golf. But when you have to pay in Daytona, it is more affordable than what you might think. With more than 20 champion golf courses designed by pros such as Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Arthur Hills, Rees Jones and Lloyd Clifton, you might expect to pay an arm and a leg to golf these exceptional courses. But in fact, many offer very affordable rates, and when combined with accommodations packages, you can save an unbelievable amount of money.

You can even golf one of two premier courses of the LPGA for a reasonable price. One of those courses is known as The Champions Course and is the site of the prestigious LPGA Mercury Titleholders event. The second course, The Legends, just opened for public play last October. The LPGA facility also features a teaching academy with practice holes, greens and a driving range.

In addition to all of the great golfing to be had in the Daytona, Florida area, there are beaches, shops, fine restaurants, museums, attractions and entertainment galore. And who could forget that Disney World is less than an hour away. So, if you are looking for a dream vacation getaway for your family and a relaxing week of golf for yourself, Daytona may be just the spot to make all of your vacation dreams come true.

Rose Lenk
For more articles and info about Florida visit www.Access-Florida.com.

Daytona Beach Florida is a Golfer’s Paradise

2007-06-19T10:30:00.000-05:00

A Day at the Summer Palace of Peter the Great

2007-06-19T10:29:00.000-05:00

by: Rick Chapo
For elegance and old world feel, St. Petersburg is by far the best Russian city. If you go, a visit to Peterhof, the summer palace of Peter the Great is a must.
Peterhof

As Tanya and I left St. Petersburg for Peterhof, I was in a foul mood. A pickpocket had cut through the bottom of my backpack and swiped my camera. The ferry taking us was packed and the adorable child on my right had just spilled his ice cream down my leg. Why, I oughta’. My mood was soon to change.

Apparently, sensing my volatile mood, Tanya hadn’t said a word on the 20 minute ferry ride. As we exited onto a long pier at Peterhof, she grabbed my hand and more or less tugged me down to what looked like an ancient French road. This was, in fact, the Grand Canal leading to Peterhof.

The Grand Canal is a water way with two paths cutting up the side of it towards Peterhof. The canal cuts through a forested area with trees nearly forming a roof over the canal. The atmosphere is very serene, particularly since I noticed the ice cream tike on the opposite path of the canal. Walking no more than a mile, one comes upon Peterhof and the Great Cascade.

The Great Cascade is aptly named. It is a collection of fountains and statutes sitting on tiered marble levels rising to the front of the palace. After living in Russia for eight months, I was use to seeing drab, grey five story buildings. The burst of gold, white and black colors was amazing and made me wonder what Russia must have looked like before communism.

After gaping at the Great Cascade for nearly an hour, it was time to take the tourist tour of the palace. We dutifully stood in line and made small talk with two German couples behind us. Compared to the general state of decay in most of Russia, we couldn’t get over the fact the palace seemed to be in such good shape.

As the tour got underway, I kept getting the feeling there was something “off” about the palace. For a place built in 1715, Peter the Great sure seemed to know a lot about electricity. In particular, he seemed to have planned well ahead by creating some type of internal piping structure for the future electrical wires. Well, he was Great and perhaps the powers that be had done a little remodeling over the years.

Alas, one of our German friends was puzzling over the same thing. As we stood on the second floor of the palace, Jan asked our guide about the anomaly. He asked it in front of our group of about 20 people or which 75 percent were Russian. He asked in a heavy German accent.

Our guide dutifully replied the Germans had bombed Peterhof during World War II. Peterhof had been completely destroyed. The palace had subsequently been rebuilt, which explained its modern feel.

There was one of those pregnant pauses, which occur in such situations. Jan turned completely red. Taking pity on him, the tour guide immediately launched into an aggressive discussion of a particular picture on the wall while we dutifully paid attention and asked inane questions.

Oddly, the fact Peterhof is a modern structure doesn’t really detract from the experience. The palace and surrounding structures simply feel like a real palace. With many palaces through Europe, you get the feeling Disney was somehow involved in the construction.

At Peterhof, there is a definite feeling of elegance, but elegance mixed with a practicality required by day-to-day living. In short, you can definitely image Peter the Great living there in the summer.

Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers of travel journals. Writing journals are the perfect travel accessories. Visit http://www.nomadjournaltrips.com to read more travel articles and travelogues.

Travel to Italy – Rome and Venice

2007-06-19T10:08:00.000-05:00

by: Rick Chapo
Where does one begin to start when discussing Italy. Well, if you intend to travel there, Rome and Venice are good places to start.
Rome

Perhaps you’ve heard of it? It goes without saying that Rome has a rather prominent past. Lets see, in Rome you will find…[deep breath]…the Vatican, Coliseum, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Church of Saint Agnese, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps and a guy name Allassandro. Just making sure you’re paying attention. Indeed, Rome is filthy with historically significant attractions. It seems you can’t turn around without bumping into something an Emperor built, captured or destroyed. For those willing to risk potential wrath, there are also the new Divinci Code tours, which take you to the locations found in the book.

In all serious, Rome is a city you should visit at least once in your life. No article could ever do it justice, so I’ll just stop here.

Venice

I fondly refer to Venice as the floating city even though it is apparently sinking. If you’ve seen Venice is movies or televisions shows, the depictions are accurate. Piazza San Marco looks exactly the same, birds and all. The Grande Canal is, well, a grand canal with incredible houses lining it and boats putting up down this water way. Built on mudflats in a lagoon, the city doesn’t really have much room to grow. It just seems paralyzed in time.

Once you’ve conquered the tourist attractions, it will be time to get serious about Venice. The best way to do this is stand in front of your hotel or hostel, determine which direction the tourist attractions lie and start walking in the opposite direction. While you may feel like you’re driving the wrong way on a freeway for a few minutes, you’ll eventually start getting into real Venice.

An entirely different side of Venice will appear and you’ll love it. You’ll find little cafes with locals happy to talk to you [and non-tourist prices]. In fact, the Venetians will tend to hold you in high regard since you’re a tourist who is bypassing the tourist areas. This, of course, will logically lead to a whirl of introductions to this nephew, that son of a brother and so on. Next thing you know, you’ll be complaining about Italian politicians and how things used to be better in the past.

While Rome and Venice are excellent travel destinations, you can’t really go wrong in Italy. For the adventurous, set your itinerary with the old map on a wall and dart technique.

Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers of travel journals. Writing journals are the perfect travel accessories. Visit http://www.nomadjournaltrips.com to read more travel articles and travelogues.

Ya Mule! Backpacking in Siena, Italy

2007-06-19T10:06:00.000-05:00

by: Rick Chapo
Ah, the glamour of backpacking through Europe. Of course, the glamour comes with a price as I found in Siena, Italy.
Siena

Siena is located an hour or so outside of Florence, Italy. My handy dandy guidebook suggested it was a side trip that just had to be made. A medieval structure located behind protective walls on the top of a hill. The central area was generally closed off to cars and it was a taste of true Italy. Who was I to argue?

As I sat on the train, I check my backpack for any excess weight. I had already discarded or sent home unnecessary items and was feeling pretty light on my feet. Next thing I knew, the train had stopped and I was standing on flat road next to a rolling hill covered in trees and homes. Siena proper was at the top.

The thing about rolling hills with lots of foliage is they are simply evil. You can never get a grasp on how far it is to the top. You keep thinking the top appears to be a few hundred feet in front of you until you reach it. Then you discover it is just a dip before another upward section. The hill up to Siena is just such a rolling hill. Throw in a road that twists all over the hill like a drunken sailor on leave, and you’ll never scoff at a moped again.

Getting in touch with my inner mule, I began to climb and tame the great beast. As I trudged along, I thought of all the great people that must of walked up the same hill throughout history. As I stood in the shade panting, I thought all of those great people probably hitched a ride instead of walking like me.

After thirty-five minutes or so, I was seriously starting to think about hitching a ride. Of course, this would mean admitting defeat. The battle between my genetic male stubbornness and “this sucks” attitude was intense. Like a mule, I kept going. Five bends, three dips that I could have sworn were the top.

Just as I was giving in…a wall. A really big wall. I passed it and suddenly was in a large parking lot area with tourist buses. Hands on knees, shirt soaking, I tried to maintain my dignity as the tourist looked at me like I was insane. Did that moron walk up here? One even took a picture!

After composing myself…err, getting my breath back, I booked a room in a little hotel. The young lady working the desk seemed hesitant, but I made some comment about it being a long way up from the valley. She started giggling and I had the room.

I showered and went looking for trouble. Well, trouble that was on a flat surface. In the town centre, I stumbled upon a small café selling Mexican beer. Being from San Diego, this was nirvana. My inner mule was quickly appeased and the hill of death forgotten.

Reflecting on my climb from a historical perspective, I learned a good lesson. It is far better to be behind the wall than trying to attack it!

Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers of travel journals. Writing journals are the perfect travel accessories. Visit http://www.nomadjournaltrips.com to read more travel articles and travelogues.

Survival Clothing For Outdoor Emergencies

2007-06-19T10:05:00.002-05:00

by: Steve Gillman
Maybe you don't need to learn about survival clothing. Maybe you always hike with a spare jacket. Perhaps you never go out into the wilderness overnight, but just for day hikes. Or you bring lots of warm clothing when you do go backpacking.
Nonetheless, hundreds of people die or come close to dying every year from exposure. They thought they were prepared. They didn't expect their clothes to get wet from falling in a stream, they didn't think they'd be out there for the night, or they get lost for days.

Coming down from Mount Whitney I met several young men in t-shirts on their way up, determined to get to the top. They had no gear, and not enough time, but they probably made it there by sunset anyhow. They also certainly didn't make it the eleven miles back to their car before dark. It was below freezing that night, so I imagine they were uncomfortable at best.

Quick Survival Clothing

What survival clothing could they have made in that situation? One of them did have a light jacket. He could have used his t-shirt as a hat (a lot of heat is lost through the head) and filled his jacket with the fluff from the cattail seedheads for insulation. (Cattail down was once used to fill those old orange life preservers.)

Insulation is the important principle here. You can stuff a jacket, shirt, sweater or pants with dry leaves, milkweed down, bracken ferns or almost anything that creates a lot of "dead air space." It's better if you have two layers to sandwich it between, but being itchy is better than being frozen in any case.

In a jam, you can also use the flat leaves of cattail plants to weave a vest that will block the wind and some rain. Two bread bags full of milkweed down or other silky plant fibers make warm mittens (tie them at the wrists). A plastic bag full of the same could be tied onto your head as a hat.

Usually, you'll do better to look first at what you have, before looking to kill animals for their skins, or weave grass skirts. If you have a sleeping bag, it can double as a coat - just wrap it around you. Socks can be mittens, and garbage bags can be made into snow pants.

A garbage bag can also be a raincoat. Otherwise, tie bunches of grass tightly together along a string or strip of cloth, and then wrap it around your shoulders. This will repel a light rain. You can fashion a rain hood of birchbark as well.

In the desert you can make a sun-hat of large leaves, like those from a fan palm. String some together to wrap around your shoulders to prevent sunburn.

You'll probably never have to use animal skins for survival clothing. You might never lose your shoes and need to glue tree bark to your feet with pine sap, for hiking. Still, knowing how to improvise a few basic pieces of survival clothing can make you more comfortable, and possibly save your life.

Steve Gillman is a long-time advocate of lightweight backpacking. For more on survival clothing, plus tips, photos, stories and a new Wilderness Survival Guide, visit The Ultralight Backpacking Site: http://www.The-Ultralight-Site.com/wilderness-survival-guide.html.

7 Things To Do And Learn On Your Palm Springs Vacation

2007-06-19T10:05:00.001-05:00

1 Hike the canyons of Palm Springs
Palm Springs is a hiker's paradise, which is evident by the many hiking trails mapped out in and around its numerous scenic canyons and gorges. Here the diversity of wildlife is as contrasting as the breathtaking landscape. From catching a glimpse of the rare and endangered Bighorn Sheep to watching the clever antics of the smallest desert creatures, the canyons of Palm Springs are a must see for any visitor to the area.

Tahquitz Canyon is situated on the Agua Caliente Reservation and is one of the most beautiful desert attractions to be found in Palm Springs. Boasting of a spectacular 60-foot waterfall, rock art, ancient irrigation systems, abundant native wildlife and plants, a hike through this unique and diverse canyon will not be forgotten any time soon.

Palm Canyon features fifteen miles of mapped trails that gives hikers an intimate glimpse of the area's indigenous flora and fauna situated against a contrasting, rugged landscape of rocky red and gold gorges and the barren desert lands in the distance. Here you can hike, explore, picnic and horseback ride against the breathtaking canyon backdrop.

2 Tour the oases of Palm Springs

A beautiful contrast to the barren desert landscape are the many lush oases of Palm Springs. Consisting mainly of tall Fan Palms, the oases offer more than just respite from the extreme desert temperatures, which descend upon the area daily.

The oases of Palm Springs are intricate ecosystems boasting of numerous different kinds of plant and animal life including snakes, rodents, lizards and spiders.

Thousand Palms Oasis is situated on the Coachella Valley Preserve and straddles the San Andreas Fault line. Consisting of emerald green undergrowth, soaring Fan Palms and the endangered Valley Fringe-toed Lizard, the Thousand Palms Oasis is the perfect place to start your tour of the Oases of Palm Springs.

The Oasis of Mara, formerly known as Twentynine Palms Oasis, is located in the Joshua Tree National Park. Once revered as an “Oasis of Fertility” by the natives, this oasis is indeed a fertile ground for many types of flora, fauna and wildlife.

3 Entertain your whole family in Palm Springs

What once has been known as a Mecca for the retired, the rich and golf enthusiasts, Palm Springs is beginning to show its inner child. From museums and amusement parks to miniature golf and arcades, there is no end to the family-friendly attractions to be found in Palm Springs.

Located on East Palm Canyon, Camelot Park boasts of activities and entertainment to keep the whole family occupied for hours. At the center of this whimsical attraction is a fantastical castle surrounded by video games, miniature golf, go-carts, bumper boats and much, much more.

The Living Desert Wildlife and Botanical Park is located on Portola Avenue, and is full of amazing wildlife and creatures that will be sure to amuse the adults and children alike.

Featuring species such as coyotes, the endangered bighorn sheep, cheetahs and meerkats, the Living Desert is a must-see attraction in the Palm Springs area. The park also boats of a discovery center where children can watch demonstrations and have hands-on interactions with small creatures such as snakes, turtles and tarantulas.

4 Tour Palm Springs by bike

There is no better way to get up close and personal with an exotic destination like Palm Springs than by leisurely strolling through the many lush oases and barren landscapes typical of this desert paradise. But hoofing it through the miles and miles of desert attractions in and around Palm Springs can take a great deal of time and energy. That is why it has become very popular to tour Palm Springs by bike, and there are several mapped bike tours and guides dedicated to this popular activity.

One of the most popular bike tour agencies in Palm Springs is Big Wheel Bike Tours. They offer several different courses which range in difficulty from beginner to Advanced and can vary in length from a couple of hours to a full day. Many of the courses meander through breathtaking landscapes and popular tourist attractions.

5 Palm Springs Casinos

Boasting a handful of casinos all featuring low and high-stakes gambling, fine dining and other luxurious attractions, Palm Springs is prepared to take care of all of your gambling wants and needs. In fact, the only hindrance that you may find when it comes to Palm Springs casinos is deciding exactly in which casino you want to place your bets.

No matter what your gaming preference or budget, there is a gaming facility in Palm Springs to meet your every need. From high-stakes Poker and slot machines to Bingo and Blackjack among others, you will find plenty to keep your gambling hand occupied during your stay in Palm Springs. Some of the many casinos in the area include the Palm Springs Spa Resort Casino, the Agua Caliente Casino, the Fantasy Springs Casino and the Trump 29 Spotlight Casino.

6 The Native Americans of Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a desert paradise with sparkling waters, tree-lined canyons and bubbling hot springs. This rich, desert oasis has been the site of civilization for thousands of years beginning with the native inhabitants of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. For centuries, this band of Native Americans lived off of the bounty to be had in this unique desert, ecosystem.

The region was ideal for habitation, and the Agua Caliente took advantage of the resources in the area and survived by living off of the land. They used multitudes of desert plants for food, clothes, medicine and hunted game such as deer, bighorn sheep, rabbits and other small animals. They also used an elaborate irrigation system to aid in the production of crops that were brought by the Spanish including corn, squash, beans and melons.

Sadly, in 1862 a small pox epidemic brought about by the influx of whites into the area almost completely wiped out the Agua Caliente altogether. In 1925, only 50 Agua Caliente remained. Today, there are 240. They still hold the majority of the land in the Palm Springs area and run successful casinos and other tourist attractions in the area.

7 How Palm Springs was named

The first non-Native American to settle in the Palm Springs area was Judge John Guthrie McCallum. Arriving in Palm Springs in 1884 from San Francisco with family in tow, McCallum worked alongside the Native Americans to build a 19 mile stone-lined ditch from the Whitewater River Springs to irrigate the dryer parts of the area.

Continuing throughout the 19th century, numerous explorers, colonizers and soldiers came through the desert and remarked on the lush oasis to be found in the Coachella Valley, but no formal name had been given to the site. Often referred to as Palm Springs, Agua Caliente or Palm Valley, it wasn't until 1890 when Harry McCallum wrote his address as Palm Springs that the region came to be known under those terms.

Rose Lenk
Palm Springs California Photo Gallery http://www.karenstearns.com/palm_springs/palmspringspictures

Palm Springs Real Estate http://www.palmspringtime.com

The Best Romantic Vacations - Five Ideas

2007-06-19T10:03:00.000-05:00

by: Steve Gillman
The best romantic vacations are those that bring a couple together. This can mean spending time alone, without friends or family around. It can also mean an opportunity to do things together. Here are five of the best romantic vacations.
Beach Vacations

Beaches are romantic. The sun, sand, and the sound of the waves relax you and take away the stress and worry of "everyday life." Relaxation and escaping stress is always better for romance. Find a place that is ON the beach, not a hotel miles from the beach. Dealing with traffic, packing and unpacking the car is not romantic.

If you are on a budget, you can do like we did in northern Florida. We stayed in our conversion van at a campground on the beach. We collected shells together, flew a kite in the breeze and took our chairs down by the water to watch the sunset. The beaches of the great lakes are another great place to check out, and are much more affordable.

Cruises

Cruises may be the ultimate romantic vacation. You escape it all - even the sight of land. Being isolated together, especially in the comfort of a cruise ship, can be great for a couple. Just be sure that both of you like the idea, and budget enough so money worries don't steal the romance. (Cruise ship bars are notoriously expensive.)

Talk about your options. Perhaps you'll discover that both of you were assuming the other wanted a traditional sunny carribean cruise, when in reality, you both would love to watch whales and glaciers on an Alaskan cruise. There are many different styles and destinations for cruises. See if the cruise has activities that you'll enjoy participating in together.

Trains

In Ecuador, my wife and I took a train from Riobamba to Alausi. It was scenic, romantic and adventurous. I rode on the roof for part of the trip, then we snuggled to keep warm as it went high into the Andes Mountains. The final destination is a valley where you get a view of a rock formation high above, called "La Nariz Del Diablo," or "The Devil's Nose."

There are scenic and romantic train rides all over the world. Some of Amtrak's more scenic stretches take days and can be a vacation in themselves. Otherwise, you can plan a vacation around one or more "dinner trains" or scenic rides like the one we took from Silverton to Durango Colorado (beautiful mountains).

Skiing Vacations

These are only romantic if you both love to ski, of course. To be together in a dramatic setting, sharing something that you both enjoy - that is one of the best romantic vacations imaginable. Don't forget to sit together by the fireplace at least once while you're there.

Small Towns

We have found that some of our most romantic times are when we stay in small towns. This is especially true if the tourist season is mostly over, or hasn't yet begun. Silverton Colorado in September was one of our favorites. No crowds, fantastic views of the surrounding mountains, local music and dancing in the bars at night - it was very romantic.

Location isn't the most important part of the romance. Find a place you both want to go to, by all means, but also remember to find things you can do together. Trips where you can share common interests are the best romantic vacations.

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

Romantic Weekend Getaways

2007-06-19T10:02:00.002-05:00

by: Steve Gillman
Romantic weekend getaways can be a second honeymoon or your first vacation together. When you don't have the time or money for a long trip, try one of the following.
Luxuriate Together

Spending time at a nice hotel is the most obvious and common romantic weekend getaway, and with good reason. It is wonderful to be waited on and relax in a hot tub together. The best hotels for this will have a pool, a hot tub (preferably in the room) and even a lounge where you might be able to go dancing.

In Michigan, this might be the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. This is where they filmed the Christopher Reed movie, "Somewhere In Time." There are no cars, so you'll have see the island together by horse carriage.

Romantic Weekend Getaways - Outdoors

If you both enjoy getting outside, you may want to consider a camping weekend. Whether you want to really rough it, and put on the backpacks, or just rent an RV and find a beautiful park to visit, this is a great way to have some quality time together. Wherever you live, there are great outdoor destinations within a couple hours.

A great example is the Hot Well Dunes Recreation Area, near Safford Arizona. There are two hot spring pools to soak in, and millions of acres of desert to explore. My wife and I loved collecting beautiful rocks together, and sitting around the fire with fellow campers each night. We also enjoyed regular soakings in the hot springs.

Doing Something New Together

It can be very romantic to share new experiences together. Even when things don't go as planned, you are creating common memories that bring you closer together. Why not try something new this weekend?

An example of this could be mountain biking in Moab, Utah. If you live near Seattle, you might consider a guided climb up Mount Ranier together. If you are near the coasts or the Great Lakes, you could take a charter sailing or fishing trip together. Amtrak has some great scenic routes you could travel in a weekend.

Are romantic weekend getaways expensive? Sometimes, but the only requirement is that they are romantic. There is a way to get away no matter what your budget is. Why not start planning now?

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

Going On Vacation?

2007-06-19T10:02:00.001-05:00

by: Jeff Lakie
Your deserve a vacation! You've probably worked hard all year and have been saving up and waiting patiently for a chance to get away for a few days (or a few weeks). Maybe you're just planning for a quick weekend getaway with your spouse to a bed-and-breakfast, or maybe you are looking to splurge and go to a resort somewhere warm and tropical.
But what about your pets? What are you going to do about your pets this year? Perhaps you have a dog or couple cats or some fish that need to be taking care of. Do you rely again on the goodwill of your friends and neighbors and farm your pets out to each one and hope they come back alive and well-fed? Do you beg someone to come and feed them? This can sometimes be a problem if you have family and friends who do not have the same appreciation for your pets that you do. But there are alternatives.

Increasing in popularity today are pet hotels and pet bed and breakfasts. If you've never heard of these things before they probably sound quite funny to you. But for the animal lover, they are an ideal alternative to relying on family and friends or packing your beloved dog off to the kennel where it can be housed in a cage.

Animal hotels and animal bed and breakfasts are a little bit more expensive than kennels, but your pet will be treated with the dignity they deserve while you are traveling. So it's like your four-legged family member is having its own vacation while you are enjoying yours!

While still a fairly recent phenomenon, animal hotels provide loving care by professionals to your four-legged family member. Your dog or cat will be able to run and play in an open area, will receive good food and exercise, and will be attended to and pampered by professionals. If you, like many people, consider your canine or feline to be simply another member of the family, you will have the peace-of-mind that they are well cared for!

So when you are away on vacation, why not send your dog or on vacation as well? A deserve it just as much as you do!

Jeff Lakie is the founder of http://www.my-cheap-hotels.info and http://www.my-flight-tracker.info websites providing information on Travel.

Florida Vacations In Jacksonville

2007-06-19T10:01:00.002-05:00

by: Rose Lenk
Situated in the northeastern portion of Florida, lies one of the gems of the state and a popular vacation destination: Jacksonville. Far from being just an urban destination, Jacksonville offers a unique vacationing experience complete with beaches, natural attraction, museums, wildlife exhibits and other tourist attractions.
Shimmering beaches, golf courses to die for, breathtaking state parks, intimate bed and breakfasts and enough shops to make even the most devout shopaholic faint, are some of the reasons that Jacksonville, Florida is a perfect vacation getaway. Whether you are looking to get away from it all or just want to soak up a few rays, Jacksonville has something to offer everyone.

Jacksonville is nestled in Florida's northeast region which is known for its diversity. Featuring cool mineral springs, breathtaking lakes, lush forests, and a string of beaches, the Jacksonville area is a beacon for those looking for a memorable vacation.

In Northeast Florida beaches stretch for more than 100 miles along the Atlantic Coast. Some of the most popular beaches are Amelia Island and Fernandina which consist of approximately 13 miles of stunningly beautiful beaches. If you enjoy surfing, windsurfing, fishing and camping, Huguenot Memorial Park is a great beach for these activities.

Here are just a few more of the many activities to be found in Jacksonville:

St. Augustine. St. Augustine is the oldest city in America and was founded in 1565 by Pedro Menendez. One of the main attractions of St. Augustine is the old for that sits near the bridge of the lions. This fort is centuries old and in great condition. While walking through the stone corridors and gazing the rooftop, which used to boast of powerful cannons used to protect the fort, one can get a glimpse of history and almost imagine what it was like to live at the fort during the height of its glory.

Guana River State Park. This 2,000 acre preserve is a perfect spot for your family to enjoy picnicking, biking, fishing and hiking.

Anastasia State Recreation Area. This bird sanctuary consists of 1,700 acres of ancient oaks, five miles of beach, spectacular sand dunes and tidal marshes which are a perfect backdrop for camping, picnicking, hiking, boating, swimming, windsurfing and fishing. Here you can learn to windsurf from the professionals and take a canoe trip along the banks of Salt run.

Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. The Cummer museum features an award-winning collection of classical art, traveling displays, breathtaking riverside gardens and a children's learning center.

Downtown. Downtown Jacksonville boasts of the world-famous Landing, an intricate web of shops and eateries where local entertainment and special celebrations are held. Also downtown you will find Alltel Stadium, home of the Jaguars; Veterans Memorial Coliseum where many events such as circuses, concerts, and monster truck shows are held; Wolfson park, home of the Jacksonville Suns baseball team; and Met Park, an amphitheater that plays home to many concerts. Jacksonville also hosts the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra and Junior Orchestra. And at the Florida Theatre you can see many Broadway plays as well as shows from stars such as David Copperfield and the Nutcracker Ballet during the Christmas season.

As you can see from these few examples, there is no chance that you will get bored on your next vacation getaway if you choose Jacksonville, Florida as your destination. From a round of golf to lazing away on the beach or touring one of the many nature preserves, the Jacksonville area has something to please even the most finicky heart.

Rose Lenk
Visit City-Florida for more articles and information at http://www.city-florida.com.

10 Travel Tips

2007-06-19T10:01:00.001-05:00

by: Jeff Lakie
Going away on vacation should be an enjoyable experience but everyone has a horror story to tell. Perhaps your hotel room was robbed, or perhaps a careless spouse accidentally gambled away more money than they realized, or perhaps you simply lost your wallets somewhere between the airport and hotel. Here are 10 ways to make sure that your trip is a success in spite of those obstacles.
1. Use a hidden wallet to carry most of your valuables and identification.

2. If you feel comfortable sending it in the mail, mail a money order or a traveler's checks to yourself at your hotel so that even if you lose some of your money, more will be coming.

3. While you don't have to be too strict, you should have an agenda and leave it with someone at home. This way, if something happens in the area where you are vacationing, your loved ones will be able to have a fairly good idea of where you are.

4. Keep copies of identification at home, even if you take the originals with you.

5. When you go on vacation, choose one credit card to bring, rather than bringing all of them. This way, if your wallet gets stolen, you will minimize your losses.

6. Another option is to choose a preloaded credit card, which is really more like a debit card that you put money "on" so that if you end up losing your wallet the thieves cannot wreck your credit rating.

7. Bring important phone numbers with you on your trip and put them in two different places. Bring a phone number that will cancel your credit card; if you're traveling out of the country bring a phone number to reach the embassy; bring phone numbers of close family and friends who can help you if you get into trouble; and bring phone numbers of the hotel and car rental company as well.

8. You'll want to have your travel insurance information. Be sure to keep a copy of your travel insurance at home as well as on your trip so that a family member can access it if necessary.

9. Bring basic medical information with you, like blood type and allergies, and make sure that the medical information is translated into the primary language of the place you are going to so that non-English-speaking doctors will have no problem understanding the situation.

10. Know what kind of insurance is covered on your credit card, if that is how you are using to paying for your trip. For example, some credit cards cover car rental insurance, but may not cover it in the country are you are going to. Be sure to know what insurance you have before you leave.

Jeff Lakie is the founder of http://www.my-discount-airfare.info and http://www.my-airfares.info websites providing information on Travel.

Miami is the Hub of Florida’s Culture and Nightlife

2007-06-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

by: Rose Lenk
When one thinks about Miami, Florida, the image that comes to mind is usually filled with hot night spots, sophisticated urban hospitality and warm, sandy beaches. It is all of these things and much more that make Miami one of the hottest vacation spots both in Florida and in the Eastern United States.
While Miami has been a hot vacation destination for decades, the city has seen some major development during these infancy years of the new millennium.

Most of this development has taken place in downtown Miami, but its effect can be felt throughout the region. But since the numerous new buildings and skyscrapers have been built in the city's center, the famous beaches of the area have remained pretty much unchanged.

One of the main attractions of Miami is its temperate, subtropical weather which allows for year-round outdoor activities. The many beaches and waterfronts available offer varied water sports including windsurfing, sailing, kayaking and scuba diving. And if you prefer land to sea, there are just as many dry attractions to keep you occupied including golf, tennis, sunbathing, nightclubbing, fine dining and other area attractions.

South Beach is perhaps one of the most famous neighborhoods in the Miami area. The South Beach Historical District, located on the peninsular southern tip of South Beach, consists of only one square mile, but is home to numerous 1930s to 1950s style Art Deco hotels. These hotels are only a short distance away from some of the major Miami attractions and offer comfortable, off-the-beaten-path lodging.

The historic district is also home to numerous other attractions including the Holocaust Memorial, Wolfsonian Museum, The Jackie Gleason Theater of the Performing Arts and Lincoln Road Mall.

Miami is also the shopping Mecca of Florida and boasts endless premier shopping malls and boutiques. For shoppers who want a taste of the local flavor, Bayside Marketplace and Biscayne Bay have a number of boutiques and specialty shops that sell everything from plastic fruit to high-tech electronics.

The Mayfair Shops, located in the Grove, is a complex made up of boutiques and nightclubs. And Sawgrass Mills, with more than 300 shops and kiosks in a 2.4-million-square-foot facility makes even the most serious and dedicated shoppers feel like they've died and gone to the great big mall in the sky.

To get to one of the many beaches in the Miami area, you will likely find yourself on Ocean Drive. This drive extends from 5th to 15th streets and features historic hotels, shops and open-air cafés, which face the Atlantic Ocean.

Continuing on to 21st to 35th streets and again from 71st to 163rd Streets are where the most popular beaches can be found. Here visitors can enjoy a host of activities including deep-sea fishing, kite flying, sunbathing, surfing and a host of other water sports.

Visitors looking for more natural surroundings should visit the Biscayne Bay islands, just south of Miami Beach. The islands give tourists a chance to see the natural wonders that Florida has to offer. Also in this area is the Miami Seaquarium, situated on Key Biscayne. This is a terrific place for the entire family to learn about the native sea life. Visitors will get to see Flipper the dolphin and Lolita the killer whale perform high-flying stunts.

Another attraction that is a must-see for nature lovers is the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. This museum, constructed in 1916 by James Deering, is a palatial affair which reflects the Old World style of Florida's yesteryear. Here guests can appreciate the Italian Renaissance architecture of the building while they tour the mansion and the immaculate gardens of the estate.

So, if you are looking for a hot spot with an endless array and variety of attractions, perhaps Miami, Florida is the perfect destination for your next vacation getaway. From hot night spots and fine restaurants to family attractions and endless beaches, Miami has more to offer you and your family than many other popular vacation spots.

By Rose Lenk
For more great articles and info about Florida visit http://www.Access-Florida.com.

Peter the Great’s Summer Palace – St. Petersburg, Russia

2007-06-19T09:59:00.000-05:00

by: Rick Chapo
During the communist reign in Russia, architectural styles could best be described as bland. Fortunately, the summer palace of Peter the Great wasn’t affected.
Peterhof

Known as Peterhof, the summer palace of Peter the Great is a very impressive area. The palace is arranged with a central rectangle format over roughly two or three acres. This area is then surrounded by areas of wood and “nature” as the Russians call it. Peterhof stands out like a jewel among the bland communist structures found in greater St. Petersburg.

Fountains, Fountains, Fountains

At the time of construction in 1715, Peter the Great was clearly in his “fountain” phase. Peterhof isn’t so much a palace as a collection of some of the most impressive fountains you’ve ever seen. There are fountains in the front, back, each side, in the bathroom and so on. All of them are impressive and worth a look.

Foremost of the fountains of Peterhof is the Great Cascade. Arriving from St. Petersburg by boat, one is offloaded on a long pier at the end of the Grand Canal. The Grand Canal cuts through the woods surrounding Peterhof directly to the front of the palace. As you proceed, you start to notice something big and colorful at the front of the palace. Welcome to the Great Cascade.

The Great Cascade sites at the base of Peterhof and is more impressive than the palace. Created in the Baroque style, the Great Cascade is hard to describe. At its base is a pool a large pool with rock platforms crowned by golden statutes spouting water. Rising up from the pool to the palace are two sets of steps surrounding a plateau. The steps are a combination of black marble inlaid with gold and white marble. The steps are crowned with statues and, again, fountains, which make them a combination of sprouting water and cascading falls. All of this is built up on a collection of rock and rises over 30 feet to the base of the palace. As I said, the Great Cascade is hard to describe. If you would like to see it, just do a search for “Peterhof” on your search engine of choice.

Perhaps the most impressive thing about the Great Cascade is the power source. With fountains blowing water thirty to fifty feet in the air, there must be some serious pump action at work? Nope. Peter the Great created a system that runs entirely off gravity. Great, indeed!

Day trips to Peterhof are hocked something fierce in St. Petersburg. While I usually disdain tourist traps, this is one you should definitely see.

Rick Chapo is with http://www.nomadjournals.com - makers of travel journals. Writing journals are the perfect travel accessories. Visit http://www.nomadjournaltrips.com to read more travel articles and travelogues.

Lightweight Backpacking Techniques

2007-06-19T09:52:00.000-05:00

by: Steve Gillman
These lightweight backpacking tips and techniques are options or ideas, not recommendations. I tend towards the extreme side of ultralight backpacking, and if you don't know yourself or your skills, some of these techniques will get you into trouble.
A good example of this is the "natural mattress" that allows you to leave your sleeping bag behind. With this technique, I've slept with no pad, and only a five-ounce sleeping bag liner, on a night when it was near freezing. It took fifteen minutes to collect enough bracken ferns to make a two-foot thick mattress, but it was comfortable and warm.

You can use leaves, pine needles, dead grass or dry bracken ferns. All you do is make a pile big enough to set your tent or bivy sack on. This could damage the enviroment in some areas, so use common sense, and collect only DEAD vegetation. Also, scatter your materials in the morning, so they won't smother the plants underneath.

An important point here is that you have to know your enviroment, so you know you'll be able to find proper mattress materials. Otherwise, you could have a very cold night or worse. Also, gloves make it easier and safer to collect the ferns or grass. Try this first near home.

Knowledge Reduces Weight

Learn certain backpacking techniques, like the one above, and you can carry a lighter sleeping bag, less clothing, and even less food. Wilderness survival knowledge can help you reduce weight, but it also lets you travel the wilds more safely.

Learn which berries are edible, and you can eat as you hike and bring less food. I've eaten half of my calorie needs in the form of berries on some days in the wilderness. During a hike to Grinnel Glacier in Glacier National Park, my wife and I ate nine types of wild berries.

Researching the climate, and timing can help you reduce weight. You can leave rainwear home, for example, if you're in the eastern Sierra Nevadas in September (bring a garbage bag for emergencies). I sometimes plan trips to coincide with the full moon. I enjoy getting up at four in the morning and hiking by moonlight, and since I'm up and moving at the coldest time of the night, I can get by with a lighter bag.

Money Reduces Weight

Money will buy you lighter gear, and expensive backpacking gear is generally of very high quality. I didn't enjoy paying over $200 for my sleeping bag, but I've never yet been cold in it, and it weighs just 17 ounces.

Concentrate on the the larger items. A sawed-off toothbrush could save you 1/4 ounce, but a lighter shelter can save you pounds. Consider small things last. Buy dual-purpose items, like a poncho that can double as a shelter. Drink soup and tea from your pan, and you won't need a bowl or cup.

Leaving Things Reduces Weight

This can be the tough part of lightweight backpacking. Ask of every item; Can I get by without it? Stoves aren't necessary if you bring ready-to-eat food. You don't need a change of shirt or pants on a three-day trip. If you're not sure you'll be happy as a minimalist, go back to the money solution. Start replacing your things with the lightest alternatives you can buy. There are many ways to go lightweight backpacking.

Steve Gillman is a long-time advocate of lightweight backpacking. His tips, photos and stories can be found at The Ultralight Backpacking Site: http://www.The-Ultralight-Site.com.

La Gomera Island

2007-06-19T09:51:00.001-05:00

by: Jakob Jelling
La Gomera, belonging to the Canary Islands, is a very peculiar and interesting spot. This island has a central massif of a height of about 1490 meters which can easily be seen from the distance and is, without any doubt, a unique peculiarity. This massif shows a dramatic drop which turns it to be a very impressive place as well as it provides an amazing sight.
Besides its geographical and geological characteristics, La Gomera also offers several other interesting and attractive peculiarities. One of these peculiarities is the way it has maintained its traditions and cultural characteristics through the pass of time. This way, tourists who visit this island could meet some antique traditions and customs in the same way people could have observed them a long time ago.

There are several interesting spots and places tourists should make sure of visiting while being in La Gomera. One of these spots is the Hermigua. The Hermigua is a village of small charming houses which together offer a very interesting landscape. Besides this, it is also interesting to remark that Hermigua shows one of the main banana plantations areas in La Gomera.

Vallehermoso is another spot tourists should try to visit in La Gomera. Vallehermoso shows a very beautiful environment full of natural elements such as fruit trees, palm trees, and exotic plants which give the area a very colorful appearance as well as turn it to be very aromatic and enjoyable through all the senses. Another spot to visit in the island is the Cedar Forest, which is not only among the most interesting spots in La Gomera, but one of the most attractive forests in the entire archipelago as well.

Valle Gran Rey is another of the most interesting places La Gomera offers. Valle Gran Rey shows a variety of trees and natural elements which together turn it to be a very beautiful place. Besides this, those tourists who enjoy sea related activities and landscapes should visit Playa Santiago. Playa Santiago or Santiago Beach is a very beautiful sea area where visitors can not only enjoy the environment but also fish.

Jakob Jelling is the founder of Eurotomic.com. Please visit http://www.eurotomic.com/spain.php if you're planning a trip to Spain.

Ghost Hunting on Oregon's Coast

2007-06-19T09:50:00.002-05:00

by: Andre' Hagestedt
The winds cut deeper and make progressively louder noises as the days shorten. Fog creeps in from the sea more often. And then Halloween shows up, as if to really remind us about things otherworldly. It's no wonder Oregon's northern coast has a load of ghostly tales swirling about. It's no wonder the remake of "The Fog" currently in release is set in a fictional North Oregon Coast town. From flying pots and specters who've moved from one building to another in Seaside, the ghostly legends of a hotel in the Nehalem Bay, to the myriad of hauntings in ancient Astoria - there's plenty for the ghost-hunting tourist in this pristine and stunning area.
SLEEPLESS IN SEASIDE

Tales of things creepy abound in Seaside - but they're hard to find. It's almost as if they've been swept under the carpet.

For almost 100 years, the old Hotel Seaside (later named The Seasider) was a grandiose, beautiful building that was a sort of centerpiece to Seaside, at the Turnaround. So it's no surprise that place acquired tales of apparitions and otherworldly guests over the years. There were numerous spirits that purportedly haunted it.

These days, the Shilo Inn sits in that spot. But when the old hotel was torn down, the spooks moved to Girtle's Restaurant, just down the street on Broadway, according to owner Bob Girtle. He recounted numerous stories of otherworldly happenings in the restaurant, having seen them himself or coming from various employees who tell their own tales. They talk of seeing the mysterious shadows of feet walking behind the door of a closed-off area of the kitchen, visible from the small space between the floor and the door. This happens when it's not possible anyone else is in there, say Bob and his crew. They don't even check that room anymore when they see the shadows.

Then there is the notorious flying coffee pot in the galley area between the kitchen and the main dining room. Bob and others on his staff have experienced this more than once. Sometimes it moves a bit, others it literally flies across the hallway.

Bob said he inherited some employees of the old Seasider back in the 80's, and at least one said they saw some of the same ghosts.

John Sowa, owner of the New Orleans-style eatery Lil' Bayou, also related tales of moving objects in the kitchen and a strange sense of someone being near him while alone in his office. Kitchen utensils are found in different places than employees have left them, or an object suddenly falls off a hook or a shelf.

Lil' Bayou lies in the historic Gilbert District of Seaside, which is filled with old buildings, almost all with upstairs areas that are often unused. The charming, atmospheric area has gone through a rebirth in recent years, and often there are whispers of ghosts coinciding with many of the renewed buildings.

The Seaside Aquarium may have a closet containing something - or rather, an upstairs that could be haunted. When the building was a natatorium back about 80 years ago, there were apartments at the top floor. That area isn't used much at all now, but manager Keith Chandler says he's heard whispers over the years the top floor is haunted. Various stories have been handed down over the years about noises coming from there.

EERIE AND NOT-SO-EERIE ON THE BAY

Manzanita, which caps the north end of the Nehalem Bay, is shrouded in mists and mystery, with Neahkahnie Mountain looming overhead and legends of a galleon and its buried treasures. Some versions of that tale contain atrocities, like purportedly burying their African slaves alive with the treasure to keep the natives away.

On its beaches, there are mysterious piles of rocks that have appeared over the years, apparently overnight. Sometimes they appear as single piles or stacks. No one has ever figured out who is responsible, creating speculation of an otherworldly artist.

In nearby Wheeler, facing the Nehalem Bay, Old Wheeler Hotel owner Winston Laszlo says he's encountered several things in that old building he couldn't really explain. Sometimes, he said, he believes he sees someone in the corner of his eye, only to discover there's no one there.

Once, Winston was looking in a mirror in the hotel's public area and saw the reflection of a man sitting in a chair behind him. Winston says he turned around to look at the man, whom he didn't recognize as a guest, and there was no one there.

A pair of ghost hunters even came to the visit the place and took photos of what they believed could be "spirit orbs" just outside the basement area. Winston still has copies of these.

Winston and wife Maranne Doyle-Laszlo say the entire building seemed to be against them during the process of remodeling the ragged old construct into the first-rate hotel it is now. They had a nagging feeling a presence seemed to arrange one disaster and setback after another, such as when a window blew out in a storm. Then, one day, they say the building seemed to accept them, and reconstruction proceeded smoothly thereafter. (www.oldwheelerhotel.com. 877-653-4683.)

In an email just before her visit, ghost hunter Martina DeLude told Winston that made sense. "Ghosts that haunt residential and business locations become very threatened when someone starts changing things that they are accustomed to. Some spirits actually become incensed when furniture is moved around. Just like the living, most spirits do not like change. Possibly, as soon as they realized that it was once again going to become a hotel - perhaps something they may remember - they decided to help you along instead of stifling your efforts." There's more on their investigation of the Old Wheeler Hotel at http://www.nwpprs.com/Investigations/Places02/OldWheeler.html.

In other tales, Wheeler Antiques owner Garry Gitzen says a Wheeler woman, descended from local tribes, actually burned down her own house in recent years because disturbing spirits haunted it. She did this in lieu of tearing the thing down, never rebuilding it, with rumors floating about that Native American children had died in a fire in that spot in ancient times.

Not all is creepy here. According to Winston and Garry, there is a host of well-meaning spirits there known as the "Good Spirits of Wheeler," and Ekahni Books owner Peg Miller says the place is a sort of "spiritual vortex lite." They all point to something they call a "Wheeler Moment," where serendipity seems to suddenly rear its head. Locals talk of numerous circumstances where pleasant, happy coincidences popped up, assisting folks in some way. They all note various incidents where someone is discussing wanting to do something, and someone or some opportunity arises that helps things along - like the time the Garry and Winston were talking about creating a film festival, and they discovered a documentary filmmaker was staying in town.

ASTORIA - OR GHOSTORIA?

At the very tip of Oregon, Astoria is full of major ghost stories of one sort or another. That's no surprise, considering it's the oldest settlement west of the Mississippi.

The Liberty Theater is widely regarded as haunted. It was once a haven for the likes of Duke Ellington, Jack Benny, Guy Lombardo and supposedly even gangster Al Capone. Purportedly, it's also occupied by someone named Paul. One employee was quoted as saying that Paul is "quite handsome," giving him the nickname Handsome Paul. He apparently wears a "white tuxedo and a panama hat," according to the Clatsop County Historical Society.

Cast and crews over the years have talked about spotting him. While mostly just an apparition, he's been known to slam doors and make other unruly noises. Other tales from the theater include objects gliding through the air, knobs unscrewing themselves from appliances and utilities, as well as two or three other inhabitants from beyond.

Also famous for being haunted is the firehouse there, plus the town has a brutal history of men being "shanghaied" in the early part of the century.

For more on the Oregon Coast, including extensive virtual tours, see www.beachconnection.net.

Andre' Hagestedt is editor of Beach Connection, a tourism publication covering the upper half of Oregon's coast - some 180 miles

New York City Sightseeing

2007-06-19T09:50:00.001-05:00

by: Dakota Caudilla
You name it, New York’s got it. Let’s see, a trip to New York would naturally take weeks, if not months to complete and if you don’t go to the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, American Museum of Natural History, The Guggenheim and Madame Tussard’s Wax Museum, you’ve not even been to New York even if your plane landed into New York! And there’s really a lot more to see in New York.
Let’s just say that if you’re traveling to New York alone, you need more than just a map of New York to make the most of your New York trip. Knowing where to eat, what to look at and how to get around in New York, in itself, will zap all your energy. Let’s take the Empire State Building in New York as an example. The Empire State Building is worth visiting not only because of its gargantuan stature, but because at night, the Empire State Building lights up magnificently providing viewers with an awe inspiring sight. In the Empire State Building of New York itself, there are drawings and paintings submitted by kids all around the world. From the top of the Empire State Building, you’ll get a grand spectacular view of the Big Apple and the metropolitan area surrounding it. A view of the whole of New York from just riding an escalator? That’s the Empire State Building for you!

And the symbol of the United States of America, the Statue of Liberty. The fact that it’s located conveniently in the New York is not a matter of chance, but since it’s located in New York and you’re in New York, why not take a ride down to the Statue of Liberty to take a look at what the Statue can give you? By going INTO the Statue of Liberty, you’ll get a special view how the Statue of Liberty was created. The engineering is marvelous. It’s amazing how many people DON’T know that the Statue of Liberty was not built in the United States of America. The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to America and it was built in France in 1875 and it was completed in 1884 and the magnificent Statue of Liberty was presented to USA on July 4th 1884. The statue was actually dismantled, shipped and then reassembled in the USA.

A visit to Ellis Island will surely take you back in time because although Ellis Island is thought to be a part of New York, Ellis Island is actually a part of New Jersey. Ellis Island is named after the owner of Ellis Island, Samuel Ellis. There are many historical places, tourist sights, museums and parks for New York sightseers.

The Guggenheim, in the meantime, is a museum located in New York. With its extensive collection of art, it will surely astound you. The magnificent setting and collection in the Madame Tussard’s Museum Wax Museum will not disappoint you either.

Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.america-travel.net on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.

Fall Foliage Scenic Drives in New England - Introduction

2007-06-19T09:49:00.001-05:00

by: Clif Calderwood
Fall foliage in New England really begins in August. The shortening daylight hours trigger the deciduous trees to begin the process of shedding their leaves. It happens all around North America, and all around the world.
But in New England it’s special.

Why is fall foliage in New England so different and special?

It’s a factor of many things but mostly an abundance of different types of deciduous trees, warm autumn days, and cool - but not freezing - nights. When these and a few other conditions are all mixed in the right proportions, then you get the world famous stunning shades of reds, yellows, oranges, and browns on the hills and mountain sides of New England.

Between mid-September to late-October, visitors flock to New England to see the fall foliage. These six scenic drives offer some of the best autumn views available from anywhere on the planet.

This is an introduction to a series of six articles that provide details and routes on each of these scenic drives.

FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE – MOHAWK TRAIL MASSACHUSETTS

The most popular fall foliage scenic drives in Massachusetts are along the famous Mohawk Trail. This trail rolls out through the northwestern part of the state on route 2, and winds through the hills and mountains of the Berkshires, touching picturesque towns like Williamstown, Deerfield, Shelbourne, Colrain, Charlemont, and Shelburne Falls.

Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts, offers spectacular views of the surrounding area and Mohawk Trail.

FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE – KANCAMAGUS HIGHWAY NEW HAMPSHIRE

New Hampshire has many scenic drives in the White Mountain National Forest but at the top of the list has to be the 34-mile Kancamagus Scenic Highway that runs along route 112 from Conway to White Mountains Visitor Center in Lincoln. This drive is considered by many to be the top fall foliage New England scenic drive. It has beautiful forests ablaze with autumn colors and plenty of photo opportunities with walks along gorges and streams, and with views of the highest mountains in the Presidential Range.

FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE – CENTRAL VERMONT AREA

In Vermont nature planted all the high peaks in the south – although the North Kingdom has great color as well. But arguably Vermont’s best loved fall foliage drive is in the Central Vermont area, around Killington, and the towns and highways of Woodstock, Rutland and Ludlow. This is deep in The Green Mountain National Forest area, and not surprisingly offers spectacular fall foliage color and scenery.

FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE – LAKES AND LEAVES MAINE

Parts of Maine are the first to display peak fall foliage color in New England. With Maine’s many driving loops to choose from, it’s difficult to single out one. But the Lakes and Leaves drive that touches the shores of Moosehead Lake on Route 15 before heading south on route 201 is ever popular. You’ll see unparalleled fall foliage views of the tree-lined banks of the Kennebec River, and the surrounding mountains on this Maine Scenic Highway.

FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE – RHODE ISLAND COAST

Fall vacationers in Rhode Island have open roads and coastal drives to satisfy their leaf peeping. The 61-mile Rhode Island Coast Scenic Drive follows the coastline east from Westerly before turning north along Narragansett Bay, and eventually over Newport Bridge on route 138. The drive finishes over the breathtaking Ocean Drive in historic Newport. A pleasant seaside twist to a fall foliage drive.

FALL FOLIAGE SCENIC DRIVE – CONNECTICUT ROUTE 169

Not to be outdone during fall foliage the state of Connecticut has in its own little corner of popular autumn leaf spotting sites, with some of the most stunning scenic drives being on Route 169 in the glacial plains which are part of Quinebaug River bottomlands.

Clif Calderwood
Are you ready for more details? Then look for the other articles in this series. Or if you can’t wait you can pick up the complete scenic drive free report containing these and other New England scenic drives, along with detailed route coverage and attractions, at www.new-england-vacations-guide.com

A Castle on Oregon's Coast

2007-06-19T09:48:00.000-05:00

by: Andre' Hagestedt
Oregon's coastline is full of secrets: veiled pleasures and surprises, clandestine, deserted beaches and hidden gems peppering the towns in the form of lodgings or eateries.
But perhaps the most stunning secret on all of Oregon's coast lies just outside of the art and culture mecca of Cannon Beach, on the north coast. There's a castle a bit south of town, hidden behind the walls of trees just north of the Arch Cape Tunnel. You can become king and queen here, at this insanely romantic spot that smacks of something between the Bavarian castle that inspired Disneyland's signature structure and the Oregon ski lodge featured in "The Shining."

St. Bernard's Bed & Breakfast is a remarkable and elegant construction peppered with artistic details, containing seven striking guestrooms filled with antiques, beautiful furnishings and a sense of the Victorian fused with modern grace.

On one particular night in April, I arrive at St. Bernard's close to 8:30 p.m., and it's pitch black. I've been here before a few times and seen bits of it, but for the first time I park in back, spotting the charming strings of lights in the garden and on the walls, as well as the two deer figures made of light bulbs. I stop to stare and gawk at these, and at the archway going through the building, half expecting to see a member of some royal family show up in a carriage and be ushered out by some servant.

Inside the enormous front door, owner Barbara Dau invites me in and up the snaking, stone stairway into the living room. Here, chandeliers and classy furniture inhabit the area, with a nifty little rounded nook in one corner - obviously part of the "tower." In the early evenings, Barbara hosts "social hours" for the guests here, featuring wine and camaraderie in front of the fireplace.

I arrive too late for this, of course, but Barbara tells me these can sometimes be fun-packed and lively, while at other times none of the guests show up at all. It's a no-pressure event, and with incredible beaches just a block away - who can blame them? Just across the street are the pristine, immaculate sands of Arch Cape, a tiny unincorporated community which contains one store and a smattering of homes. In front of it sits a gorgeous stretch of beach that runs for miles to the north, while immediately to the south hovers a craggy basalt cliff, where access to a wild and weird rocky cove is occasionally granted by low tides.

The rooms at St. Bernard's Bed & Breakfast are jaw dropping - at the very least. The "Ginger" ($179) features blue and white fabrics, oriental ginger jars and a love seat, with a king size bed from Austria. In "Gaugin" ($169) there's a cozy window seat, a funky bathtub, muted pastels of the artist and a queen size bed. The stunning "Heather" ($189) is on the top floor and features a private deck, vaulted ceilings and a sitting area with a love seat. The "Parisian" ($149) comes with soothing, hand painted floral wallpaper, a window seat, a wingback chair, and has a Victorian vibe. The gorgeous "Tower" is in the tower and it's huge ($209), with a sitting area, large soaking tub, various antiques, and it's draped in dreamy white lace. The "Provence" ($209) is on the garden level and is sequestered away from the rest of this small palace, with terra cotta floors, Jacuzzi and French doors opening into a private patio.

My room was the "Tapestry" ($209), with an incredible king size bed, engaging tapestries on the wall and floor, a big French armoire, and enormous soaking tub that screams honeymoon hangout. There's a curious little reading nook with a stained glass ceiling, and the TV comes encased in a cute replica of a castle.

At night, the ocean was the only sound you heard: soothing and cozy beyond belief.

In the morning, I notice the window (ironically) gazes straight out to a view of Castle Rock - just offshore from Arch Cape.

Morning also means a luscious, gourmet, home cooked meal prepared by Dau herself. Dau was a chemist in her former life in Chicago, and joked that meal making must be an extension of that part of chemists that like to cook things. (Given this castle vibe, I laugh to myself and imagine her in a lab coat, cackling maniacally as she whips up a dish while lighting thunders all around).

Guests sit together in the beautiful atrium-like dining room, where they chat and get to know each other. I sat with a young couple from Portland and another older couple from Michigan who have been regulars since the place started in 1995. In fact, they were among the first guests in its first two weeks.

Besides these numerous, memorable amenities, St. Bernard's offers gift certificates. Dau also offers wedding packages that accommodate up to 60 people and her signature, wondrous cooking.

Other irresistible elements of this area include more secret beaches just to the south and north. A few miles north, you'll find the mesmerizing Hug Point, which is stuffed with odd and intriguing geologic formations like funky sea caves, a waterfall and various shapes and cracks in the cliffs. Its most interesting landmark is a chunk of road blasted out of a basalt promontory - a remnant of when the beaches were the only real highway the coastal region had, back around 1910. You can even see the leftovers of a traffic light embedded in the rock. In Cannon Beach, you'll find a huge array of upscale restaurants that are legendary, as well as some Lewis & Clark landmarks.

St. Bernard's Bed & Breakfast is on East Ocean Rd., just north of the Arch Cape Tunnel. www.st-bernards.com. 800-436-2848.

For more on this region see www.beachconnection.net/vtour_cbeach.htm.

Andre' Hagestedt is editor of Beach Connection, a tourism publication covering the upper half of Oregon's coast - some 180 miles.

Spain's Gateway to Morocco: Algeciras

2007-06-19T06:22:00.000-05:00

by: Jakob Jelling
Stretching nearly to Gibraltar, Algeciras has long been an important port in Spain. It's a popular crossroads for Moroccan workers on the way to and from France, Holland, and Belgium. Partly for this reason, there's a strong Arab flavor to the city; many signs are in Arabic, and you'll find excellent tea shops specializing in Moroccan mint teas. It's not a pretty city, but it's an almost fiercely individual one with a unique and vibrant personality. The restaurants here tend to be both excellent and inexpensive, and many have perfect views of the Rock of Gibraltar. And if you stroll the streets, you'll find a number of quiet parks and plazas out of sight of the bustling city.
The most attractive part of Algeciras, however, is that there are eight ferry crossings every day to Tangier and Morocco -- Casablanca, anyone? It's also the place to catch a train to Ronda, traversing some of the loveliest and most varied terrain in Andalucia, going through the Pueblos Blancos and the surrounding area.

No doubt due to its deep port and its location, so close to Africa, Algeciras was the first Spanish town taken by the Moors in 711. It was later retaken by Alfonso XI of Castile in 1344, but destroyed by the Moors in 1368 and not rebuilt until 1760, 56 years after it had been refounded by Spanish refugees from Gibraltar. As a result, it doesn't have architecture of the same antiquity as many of the cities in Andalucia.

Nevertheless, Algeciras has class. Kings, queens, and statesmen like Churchill and Roosevelt have stayed at its Hotel Reina Cristina. And though visiting dignitaries today are more likely to fly over than stay in Algeciras, its tourist industry is growing.

What to Do

Algeciras has 23 kilometers of beach, and though some are given over to industrial use, there are still several very nice ones such as the Rinconcillo, San Garcia, and Getares. The Church of Nuestra Senora de la Palma and the Capilla de Nuestra Senora de Europa are nice to visit, thought they aren't as venerable or remarkable as many similar structures in other Andalucian towns. You can also hike through Los Alcornocales, an extensive and beautiful nature reserve nearby.

Like most Andalucian towns, Algeciras has excellent festivals, and holds them frequently. (In Andalucia, more than 3000 fiestas are celebrated each year!) The main festivals in Algeciras are the Arrastre de Latas, or Three Kings, the Fiesta de Los Reyes, Las Adas, La Chorizada, Carnival, and Tosantos (All Saints Day).

The Arrastre de Latas is when the children drag cans and pots through the streets to banish the "Giant of Botafuegos," who tries to cover the sky with gray clouds, obscuring the star from the Three Kings. The cloud is banished so that the children here might receive their gifts.Later, at the Fiesta de Los Reyes, the Three Kings bring Christmas gifts to the children, scattering sweets.

During Carnival, you can celebrate three days of music and fun with Algeciras as the Goddess of the Carnival and her Nymphs declare days of pleasure. And on All Saints Day (November 1), fiestas called Tosantos celebrate the saints with harvest fruits, nuts, and sugarcane.

Where To Stay

Besides the very nice Hotel Reina Cristina, you can stay in a variety of bed-and-breakfasts in Algeciras and neighboring small villages. One excellent choice is Monte de la Torre in Los Barrios, an Edwardian house with a thousand acres of cork oak forest to roam, mature gardens to enjoy, and the picturesque sight of grazing Retinto, a long-horned red cattle.

Jakob Jelling is the founder of Eurotomic.com. Please visit http://www.eurotomic.com/spain.php if you're planning a trip to Spain.

Travel and Vacations: Orlando, Florida Sightseeing

2007-06-19T06:13:00.002-05:00

by: Dakota Caudilla
Orlando, Florida is a mystical land where everything is blown out of proportion. Leave everyday world behind when you visit Orlando, Florida because this is where the magical Seaworld is, Skull Kingdom, Wonder Works, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, and many other parks and entertainment centers to fill your vacation with unbridled fun and excitement. Orlando is a place of sunny beaches, family parks, theatres and loads of tourist attractions. There’s never nothing to do in Orlando, Florida.
First of all, if you’re going with your whole family, you can take the kids to the absolutely breathtaking SeaWorld. Many vacationers rant and rave about the absolutely adorable dolphins, sharks and other bizarre-looking sea creatures amidst the laid-back and yet exciting atmosphere where there is a vast collection of sea animals that you can introduce to your children. The schedule for each of the shows is arranged in such a way that you don’t have to run from one show to another in a hurry. In fact, you can literally spend the whole day at SeaWorld, going from one show to another, at a leisurely pace.

And if you’re visiting Orlando, Florida, you can’t miss visiting the Universal Studios in Florida. Universal Studios is a place not only suitable for the kids, but even the adults find the place absolutely captivating. Some folks go to Universal Studios, Florida more than 3 times a year, where they leave ‘everyday world’ and ‘restraint’ behind at the doorstep. Even though some say that the wait for the rides are long and tiring, most of them agree that the wait is well worth it!

The Wet n Wild in Orlando, Florida has been bringing in visitors, vacationers and tourists from all over the world simply because the place is clean, well-kept with hundreds of rides for kids and adults alike. There are rides for just about anyone, from 18-months to 88-years old! Those who like the feeling of being in the sea, you should rent a boogie and take a ride in the huge wave pool. Every other minute, the horn will blow and all of a sudden, you will feel like you’re in the sea.

The Sleuths Mystery Dinner Theatre is among one of the many places that tourists go to only to leave it with very distinct pleasant memories of. Not only is the food excellent, the show they have there is always fresh and unique. And for those who like to get a little scared, try out the Skull Kingdom, Florida. Enter the Skull Kingdom, wander around and get taunted and terrified by a cast of freakish characters out to raise your blood pressure.

Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.travel-florida.net on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.

Airlines: One of the Great Innovations

2007-06-19T06:13:00.001-05:00

by: Frederic Madore
Up, up, and away. Do you suppose Orville Wright had any idea of the enormity of his invention? That the world would be forever changed, by the single possible opportunity of flight?
Airlines, cell phones, and automobiles have made possible the most mobile society in the history of the world. Airlines have made possible the movement of man from one side of the continent to the other in just a few short hours. How did this great marvel of machine come into existence? It all began with a thought. The thought developed into an idea. And because two men believed in the possibility, the idea took shape and form. An airplane was born.

Today’s great jumbo jets have little in common with the early mechanical birds of flight, except the ability to catapult man into the air. We fly today as if it were one of the most natural behaviors for mankind. As if there has always been the opportunity of flight. Past the point of invention, the US Government was the first to actually take flight to a commercial level. A footnote here about the government: If you will notice, some of the greatest inventions of mankind would never have “gotten off the ground” were it not for the intervention of the US government. Air mail service was begun in the United States in 1918, and thus the commercial exploitation of flight.

Since that point in time, the airplane inventions and aircraft uses have quadrupled. So have the airline companies. Today we have Delta, Southwest, American Airlines, TWA, United and Northwest. These are just the national operators. There are so many local, small airline operators that we don’t have room to even begin. And, let’s not forget that the United States Air force is as strong and flight ready as ever. Boeing, perhaps the largest manufacturer worldwide of airplanes, sees to it that our government is fully equipped for all sorts of airline missions. The government has always sponsored the advancement of flight, whether by funding private ventures or by allocating tax money to work on research and development. One more than one occasion our wonderfully managed airlines have needed government assistance to help bail them out of bankruptcy proceedings. The greatest thorn in the side of airline companies in existence today is the inability to operate profitably.

All airlines today offer daily services to the major cities in the U.S., and most connect with the smaller airlines in the rural areas of our country. This is done so that service is available to all travelers, in the hopes of filling the aircraft with as many paying passengers as possible. Airlines must at some point achieve the dream of profitable operation, and begin to look at life in the black, instead of the red.

Now, as you sit back in your nice, air-conditioned flight seat, the beautiful cloudless sky introducing the sun, as it peeps over the horizon, the history of the airplane and the airline companies doesn’t cross your mind. You simply want to know what movie they’re showing during the flight…….

Frederic Madore is the founder of the http://www.airline-information-Center.info website. Whether you are looking for airlines information or cheap airlines tickets we can help you.

Three Towns of Mijas

2007-06-19T06:12:00.002-05:00

by: Jakob Jelling
Mijas is more like three towns than one: Mijas Pueblo has the character of one of the Andalucian Pueblos Blancos, high in the mountains and whitewashed. Las Lagunas is the modern and commercial section of the town. And Mijas Costa is really a twelve-kilometer long stretch of villages down the coast. All three areas are governed from the town hall of Mijas.
Also throughout the winter and spring months, the Hipodromo Costa del Sol has weekly horseracing on Sunday mornings (Saturday evenings during summer months). As well as watching the horses, you can eat at the restaurants and bars located here, or take classes on horse riding and other equestrian themes.

Mijas Costa

Mijas Costa is composed of El Chaparral, La Cala, El Combo, Calahonda, Riviera del Sol and Sitio de Calahonda. Right down the street from the quaint medieval Mijas Pueblo, Mijas Costa is very modern indeed. You can rent vacation properties ranging from beachfront studios to major villas, or you can stay in hotels convenient to the beach. And wherever you stay, you'll have wide access to water sports from just swimming and soaking up sunlight to jet skiing, wakeboarding and surfing, windsurfing, and boating.

Sitio de Calahonda and Riviera del Sol are each large villages by themselves with all the amenities: supermarkets, golf courses, bars, restaurants, hotels, and shopping districts. It's easy for English speaking tourists to find what they want here; this part of Mijos caters to tourists.

At the center of Mijas Costa is La Cala, which still has some of the quaintness of the traditional seaside Andalucian village. It was once a fishing village, and today still maintains a street market on Wednesday and Saturday with everything from flowers and plants to fresh produce to ceramics and locally-produced clothing. Try some of the traditional local sherries and wines here. On Saturday nights in July and August, you'll find classical music and flamenco dancing throughout the promenade as the village celebrates Noches de Luna y Playa.

Mijas Pueblo

At the top of the quaint white village of Mijas you'll find fortress walls, gardens, and excellent vantage points as you wind through narrow cobbled alleys and streets. Artists and writers from everywhere have chosen to settle here in Mijas Pueblos. The town has retained most of its traditional Way of life, celebrating festivities with vigor and facing life in a laid-back manner. You'll find wonderful crafts including handmade pottery and paintings by acclaimed artists who live locally. Instead of the usual tourist trash, you could bring home a memento of your trip that, years down the way, turns out to be a sound investment. An open theater is built into the fortress walls; this is a center of the village, where theatrical festivals and other entertainments are held.

Approaching Mijas Pueblo, you'll see a small white building high above the village. This is the shrine of Calvario, a place of worship visited by Carmelite monks for reflection and contemplation. If you want to visit, there's a path to it through the trees, marked with iron crosses. The view is remarkable, a panorama of coastline, sea, and mountain on both sides of the sea.

The Virgin of the Rock on the Paseo El Compas is a shrine to the patron saint of Mijas, and it's set right into the rock. There is also the Church of the Immaculate Conception built on the ruins of an old Moorish castle, and using one of the old Moorish towers as the church bell tower. Pillars supporting the three naves of the old building sport frescoes depicting the Apostles dating from 1632. The San Sebastian Church is one of the most-photographed parts of the Costa del Sol because of the beauty of its setting. And the Shrine of Our Lady of Los Remedios has retained its simplicity, becoming a shrine to the old village way of life as well as to the Virgin.

You'll also find several museums here, including the Bull Fighting Museum and the Museum of Miniatures, which holds stuffed dressed fleas among other miniature and miniaturized items. The Paseo de las Murallas, the local bullring, is yet another part of Andalucian culture.

A unique pleasure is the Mijas donkey taxi service; you can ride a donkey, a donkey and trap, or a coach pulled by horses. It's a particularly authentic way to see Mijas.

If none of this is to your taste, then maybe the fact that Mijas is a golfing paradisw will be. There are several world-class courses in this area, with a perfect year-round climate for golfing and high recommendations from many pros. Nowhere in the area are you more than a few minutes' drive away from an excellent golf course. If you don't know golf well, there are also several renowned golfing schools in the area. In addition to the courses, several world-class hotels have been built in the area to cater to the golfing traffic.

Jakob Jelling is the founder of Eurotomic.com. Please visit http://www.eurotomic.com/spain.php if you're planning a trip to Spain.

Serious Romance at Oregon Coastal B&B

2007-06-19T06:12:00.001-05:00

by: Andre' Hagestedt
On Oregon's northern coast, the tiny town of Wheeler sits at the edge of a pristine bay that cloisters all sorts of wonders, which stay even more secret because they often get passed over by the major tourist publications. A mere few blocks long, if you blink you may miss this diminutive gem, where antique shops seem to be the number one industry (there are four such shops, yet only two lodgings and two restaurants). All of this looks out over the Nehalem Bay, where mysterious Neahkahnie Mountain hovers in the distance, looming over the immaculate beaches of Manzanita, some four miles away.
Another spot from which to get a stunning view of the bay sits at the center point of Wheeler: the Old Wheeler Hotel. At the corner of Highway 101 and what is called "Artisans Row," Old Wheeler has five cozy and luxurious rooms, all of which have windows to the always-unforgettable bay.

Beauty and romance resonates and oozes from this place, with soothing, Tuscan-inspired color schemes, hardwood floors and a classical décor that's warm, inviting and imparts luxury.

The best of modern conveniences - and a few surprises - await you. The common room serves up breakfast in the morning, and comes with a microwave and high-speed Internet access. Walk down chandeliered and candlelit hallways to the "piano lobby," decked out in a lush, warm pepper-red, stuffed with oversized comfy couches and containing a nifty hammock-like seat. There's also a vintage Wurlitzer piano.

Each room has a vibrant charm to it that's the result of a myriad of nice little details - from the bedspreads and the art on the walls, to the light fixtures and the stuffed animal you may find on your bed. Some rooms have a Jacuzzi and some have a claw foot bathtub.

There's also a masseuse in residence.

On top it all, enjoy free popcorn and movies - thanks to owner Winston Laszlo's history with the film industry. His father was a screenwriter in Los Angeles, so Winston grew up with the world of movies all around him.

A quick stop for coffee on an extended motorhome vacation resulted in a major life pathways change for this family of Coloradoans, and for an old building in Wheeler. Winston and wife Maranne Doyle-Laszlo visited here in 1998, and were charmed to the bone. Within months, they had acquired the building - back then a dilapidated eyesore that typified the downturn of this town at the time. After a year and a half of restoration, it became the flagship of the turnaround this burgh began experiencing around 2000, and which has continued ever since.

While Wheeler is still not a major destination on the coast - and regulars are thankful for that - it is coming into its own. It has a funky, slightly off-kilter vibe that is delightful and addictive. The somewhat infamous "Artisans Row" contains new age shop Gypsy Fire Spirit Gallery and the legendary cuisine of Treasure Café, as well as a few other gems. On this tiny side street, local characters gather to chat and mingle with the tourists, making everyone feel at home. Sometimes, oddball impromptu art events pop up, like the time Winston kick-started a barbecue by projecting movies on the wall across the street from the Old Wheeler Hotel.

The bay is known for its fishing, boating and lounging opportunities, and sunsets on these placid waters are famous for being consistently dazzling. The beach is a short drive away - and the town is just far enough inland to be blessed with somewhat warmer temperatures and sunnier skies than the surrounding beach towns.

Rates at the Old Wheeler Hotel for double occupancy range from $75 to $110. On weekends, two night-stays usually required. All rooms are non-smoking. Hwy 101 and Rorvick. www.oldwheelerhotel.com. 877-653-4683.

More on the Nehalem Bay can be found at www.beachconnection.net/vtour_nbay.htm.

Andre' Hagestedt is editor of Beach Connection, a tourism publication covering the upper half of Oregon's coast - some 180 miles.

Fall Foliage Scenic Drives in New England - Introduction

2007-06-19T06:11:00.003-05:00

Airfare for the Wayfarer

2007-06-19T06:10:00.003-05:00

by: Frederic Madore
Have you checked the price of airfare lately? Are you like myself, and quite afraid to contemplate that you’re going to spend that inheritance from Aunt Tilley on a flight to LA? For the general public, air travel is still an occasional event, and airfare is still comparable to a surprise attack of influenza.
We all will agree that air travel is much nicer than the open road (and faster), when you’re in a hurry and in a compact car. Airfare, however, is not the pleasant experience that air travel is. Airfare, once you’re past the sticker shock, is a confusing subject. The prospective traveler can go online, and check for cheap, discounted airfare, on several websites that are independent of any airline sponsorship. What you will find is a confusing list of possible flights, possible fares, and a message that alerts you to hurry to book at these discounted prices. At this point, I generally long for a course in Airfare 101.

Okay, everyone here’s your Basic Instruction class. There are roundtrip tickets, last minute tickets, discounted and bargain tickets. First class, coach, and business tickets; Oh yes, and let’s not forget, the International airfare tickets. Those are the tickets that come with nitroglycerin tablets as a complimentary gift.

Roundtrip airfare refers to flight purchases that allow you to go to and from your destination on just one ticket. This is the most desired form of travel, and quite frankly, often the cheapest. Last minute airfare can cause nosebleeds. The tickets can be purchased online, but only after you mortgage the farm, and promise your next child to Delta. Low cost, bargain, and discounted airfare is usually available thru websites like Cheap Seats, Priceline.com, and VacationsToGo.com. The prices are often a great deal, if you don’t mind the occasional “bump” when too many seats are booked, or you can plan and purchase 2 years in advance. The classification of business, first class, or coach tickets would refer to your seating accommodations on the aircraft. The most desired seating would be the first class section. Here, seats are big, roomy, and stuffed with the softest feathers on the market. Wine, cocktails, and a great meal are often standard fare on flights offering first class seating. Coming back to reality, however, there is business or coach for the rest of us citizenry who must actually purchase our own tickets.

Lately, with all the bad publicity that international tourism has been receiving (thanks to the terrorists), international airfare has seen modest decreases. Of course, really wonderful destinations like Paris, Rome, and London are still purchased with the complimentary nitroglycerin tablets.

As a seasoned traveler, I can promise you that even with this highly educational course, you won’t be any clearer about what you need, when you need it, as you purchase your next airfare. You will never be able to pin the airlines down as to their exact formula for pricing options, mostly because they don’t have one. The last lesson in Airfare 101: As you prepare to purchase your next airline tickets, you can throw out all the rules and formulas, close your eyes, and just pick one!

Frederic Madore is the founder of the http://www.airfare-information-center.info website. Get the best information about Airfares and Airfare Tickets.

Faces of Tarifa

2007-06-19T06:10:00.001-05:00

by: Jakob Jelling
Tarifa has long been known as a culturally-blended town, through all its incarnations: frontier fortress, fishing village, trendy tourist town. All the peoples who have settled in or near Tarifa have left a mark, from ancient Roman soldiers to Moorish settlers, Jewish merchants and Celto-Iberians. The Moorish style of architecture is the most common here, but everything else blends in with these walls to create a singularly beautiful place to vacation. You'll find virgin coastline, fine hotels, and tons of water sports to engage your interests.
Sports

Tarifa is a perfect place for surfers and beach lovers, and has perfect windsurfing waters and winds. More sedentary beachgoers can lounge on the warm sands and enjoy a spectacular view of the Rif mountains, visible across the Mediterranean from Africa. Virgin beaches and wild coastline offer room for birdwatchers and hikers, rock-climbing and surfing. Scuba diving and horseback riding are also available for those who are interested, and world-class golf courses abound in the region.

Tarifa's Living History

Many parts of Tarifa have not changed in hundreds of years. Local fishermenb stil use the Almadraba circling method of fishing, over seven hundred years old, and the narrow alleys paved with cobblestones stretch through walls cascaded over by jasmine. Wrought iron rejas decorate homes lining the street, and the castellated walls of the old city are closely woven with the homes. The eighth-century city gate of Jerez has been restored, and the church of San Mateo and buildings in the Calle de los Azogues date back to the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.

You can visit the Arab castle of Guzman the Bueno, built in 960 AD probably on the ruinms of an old Roman fort. Two high towers in the east section once protected the entrance to Tarifa. And on Calle de la Fuente you can find a historic and unique fountain. La Alameda is an Andalucian paved garden decorated with flowers and old villagers filled with stories.

Modern Tarifa

Tapas bars abound, particularly to the east of the Alameda. On Batalla del Salado, north of town, surf shops and trendy clothing stores line the streets. Wind turbines on the hills generate enormous amounts of power, and they're certainly something to get a picture of.

The most modern parts of Tarifa, though, are the beaches. For families, try the Playa Chica. If you prefer rocky beaches, check out La Caleta, a quiet beach often missed by tourists. The large Playa de los Lances stretches ten kilometers down the coast, and provides perfect surf and wind for kite surfing. Near the Hurricane Hotel you'll find the Playa de Valdevaqueros.

You can also take the regular daily ferry across to Tangiers; visit the souk for a day, or explore the unique nature of Tangiers.

Nightlife in Tarifa is very entertaining indeed. You'll find discos throughout the old town and the beach, and La Casa Amarilla features flamenco music. Continental has live music, and there are dozens of other music and other bars.

Where to Stay

You can stay in a number of hotels located in the town or its outskirts, and you also have the option of camping out in several areas along the beach. The Hotel Punta Sur is perfect for families, and very convenient to the beach. The Hurricane hotel has subtropical gardens that open to the beaches of Playa de Valdevaqueros, and excellent views of Morocco. This hotel is friendly, and its restaurant serves simple dishes with the best and freshest ingredients they can find.

For some history, consider the Cortijo La Hoya, over a hundred years old, or Casa Silos, a medieval townhouse within the old town wall.

For honeymooners or those who prefer style and class, the over-14 hotel El Aguilon may be ideal. Its swimming pool, set in an orange grove, is lovely, and the building itself is an old Andalucian Cortijo.

Jakob Jelling is the founder of Eurotomic.com. Please visit http://www.eurotomic.com/spain.php if you're planning a trip to Spain.

Attractions in Lanzarote

2007-06-19T06:09:00.001-05:00

by: Jakob Jelling
There is a great amount of different things to do and places to meet in the island of Lanzarote. Lanzarote is located towards the eastern area of the Canary Islands, and shows a size of about 13 miles in width and40 miles in length. One of the most appealing characteristics of Lanzarote is its climate. Lanzarote offers warm temperatures and scarce rains year around, turning it into a great place for those who wish to spend time at the beach and enjoy as many outdoor activities as possible.
The Limantaya National Park is one of the first spot tourists should visit while being in the island. This park was created over an area of lava field of more than 20 square miles. This lava field was created around the year 1730, when several volcanic eruptions covered the area with lava.

The House of Cesar Manrique is another interesting place tourists can visit in Lanzarote. This house is interesting from several points of view, such as from an architectonic perspective or a historic and an art related one. Near this place, within the central region of Lanzarote, there is the island's city of Arrecife, where tourists can find hotels, shops, restaurants and other facilities.

The northern area of Lanzarote has several attractive places to visit. One of these places is the Jameos del Agua, offering a formation of lava underground tunnels created after a volcanic eruption. Another spot to visit near the Jameos del Agua is the Mirador del Río. The Mirador del Río allows visitors to enjoy an amazing view and incredible landscapes since it is built over a strategic cliff area.

Another great place tourists can visit in this area of the island is La Cueva de los Verdes or Cave of the Greens. La Cueva de los Verdes is a system of lava caves and tunnels which are very interesting to meet. Visitors can walk through them and observe some unique spots and amazing lava formations. Near this place, the Jardín de Cactus is another interesting spot to meet, containing a wide variety of species and kinds of cactus which those who enjoy nature and plants would surely like to observe.

Jakob Jelling is the founder of Eurotomic.com. Please visit http://www.eurotomic.com/spain.php if you're planning a trip to Spain.

The Ancient City of Segovia

2007-06-19T06:08:00.000-05:00

by: Jakob Jelling
Segovia, located near Madrid, is an antique city, very rich in past and traditions and full of interesting historic spots and amazing constructions. Segovia is one of the most interesting spots of the region to those who enjoy learning about culture, traditions, and history while visiting a city. This city is not only one of the most famous and interesting in Spain, but also in the entire Europe.
The origins of Segovia date from the Celtics époque when it was a Celtic settlement. After its Celtic period, Segovia was inhabited by Romans, who conquered it and ruled the city for an important period of time. This way, it is not difficult to imagine the great amount of interesting events and scenes this town has seen and lived and the stories its buildings can tell.

One of the most interesting and characteristic elements of Segovia is its aqueduct. The aqueduct of Segovia was constructed more than 2000 years ago by the Romans, and to the date it still maintains its structure in perfect conditions and is been able to deliver potable water to the city for centuries despite of the great amount of natural obstacles it has lived, such as earthquakes or hurricanes.

The aqueduct of Segovia is one of the most impressing pieces of engineering of not only Spain but the entire world as well. This aqueduct is not only amazing due to the way in which it has been able to function properly through thousands of years, but also to the fact that it has been constructed in such a way that its stone blocks are united by perfect equilibrium rather than concrete or any other similar element.

Segovia is also world wide famous due to the fact that it is one of the cities which has more Roman Churches in Europe. Besides these churches, this city also has a great amount of other constructions dating from several different époques and showing a variety of architectonic styles in such a way that any tourist who enjoys architecture should not miss visiting this spot while being in Spain.

Jakob Jelling is the founder of Eurotomic.com. Please visit http://www.eurotomic.com/spain.php if you're planning a trip to Spain.

Fall Foliage Scenic Drives in New England - Introduction

2007-06-19T06:07:00.000-05:00

Travel Journals

2007-06-19T06:06:00.000-05:00

by: Doreene Clement
Are you off to a vacation adventure this summer? Have you ever kept a travel journal?
A travel journal is where you write about your personal, family and/or business travels. It can be a separate journal where you record your experiences, details, and even your feelings about your travels, creating a written record of each trip. You can also record your travels, if you already journal, in your existing journal. Just indicate that this is a record of your travels -- That can be accomplished by using a separate color of pen.

You can record…

Your feelings and experiences.

All the locations you visited. You can include a map or draw a map.

The miles and time to travel from location to location.

Who you were with.

Who you met.

What you wore.

Would you go back? Why? What do you want to see?

Where you stayed? You can keep the address, phone numbers, names, etc.

What you ate? Again record the address, etc., so you can find it again.

What you saw?

Daily travel experiences, and expenses.

Favorites-hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, locations, etc.

The funniest thing that happened.

The most difficult thing that happened.

In your travel journal you can add photos, receipts, memorabilia, maps, drawings, menus, any items that you want to add, and that fit the space you have.

Travel Journals for the Children

A great tool to involve the whole family is to create a travel journal for the children. They can use a notebook and record the same items that you did, writing what their experiences were. They can also write a story telling what they experienced each day. You can create a game for them where they count the cows they see, other children they met, or towns, etc., keeping that information in their journal.

Use the idea of a travel journal to keep a written record of all your travels, all those adventures.

www.the5yearjournal.com

Doreene Clement, a cancer victor and author of The 5 Year Journal, is currently writing a new book, Blessed, about her life and her cancer experience. For more information www.the5yearjournal.com 480.423.8095
Copyright 2005 OMDC, LLC All Rights Reserved

doreene@the5yearjournal.com

Spring Break

2007-06-19T06:05:00.001-05:00

by: Mark Stone
"Spring break!" The mere mention of the phrase would conjure distinct visions of fun for any particular age group in American history. For well-heeled college students at least as far back as the 19th Century, the spring holiday was a casual time to recuperate from academic stresses. For those who came of age in the late 1950s and early 60s, Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello defined and inspired a more established spring break ritual. Young adults today, who have never known life without MTV, experience spring break as an aggressively produced and marketed event that has all the flash of a rock concert, major sporting event, and fashion show, all rolled into one annual beach blast.
Over the years, spring break revelers have made a home for themselves at many different beach locales. The Frankie and Annette crowd could be found primarily at Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Daytona Beach and Panama City Beach, also in Florida, began solidifying their own respective popularity not long after. Palm Beach, California, along with international stars Cancun, Acapulco, and the Bahamas, have all established themselves as crowd favorites today.

There's another major spring break hotspot right in Texas' backyard. South Padre Island, 25 miles north of Mexico on the Texas gulf coast, has gained steadily in popularity since the tents and bonfires of the 60s. South Padre Island offers an expansive five mile stretch of beach, and there is ample lodging to accomodate any budget. A trip into Mexico is only a thirty minute drive, for those spring breakers who want an international experience. For spring break with a Texas flair, come on down to South Padre Island.

Mark Stone writes for various sites including this one, http://www.south-padre-island-spring-break.com/.

Visiting Dublin, Ireland

2007-06-19T06:04:00.002-05:00

by: Fionnuala Downhill
"In Dublin's fair city where the girls are so pretty I first laid my eyes on sweet Molly Malone. She wheeled her wheelbarrow through streets broad and narrow, singing cockles and mussels, alive a live O."
Dublin on the East Coast of Ireland has come a long way since Molly Malone was immortalized in the famous song and has now become a statue close to the Main shopping area of Grafton Street. Erected to commemorate Dublin's own millennium, a statue of Molly Malone pensively stares at passers-by on the southern end of Grafton Street. Ever ready for a comic put-down, Dubliners immediately christened the well-endowed Molly "the tart with the cart."

Dublin is now one of Europe's premier locations. Ireland in general has embraced the common European community but is still quintessentially Irish. Whether you visit Dublin for business or pleasure make some time to explore this wonderful city. It is both modern and energetic with its old traditions are all around.

Dublin's coastline, wild willful and rugged, can be explored by bus or train journey from the City Centre. The Irish people's Celtic heritage thrives in their creative spirit and love of music. The pubs around Dublin are full of life and everywhere you go you will experience the warmth, charm and gentle humor of the inhabitants of this tiny land with a turbulent history.

Dublin founded in the 9th Century by the Vikings is split in two by the River Liffey and hosts great rivalry between the inhabitants on both sides of the river. The two main bridges are O'Connell Bridge and the Ha'penny Bridge, so called because of the toll which used to be charged to cross it. O'Connell Bridge takes you to O'Connell Street home of the historic General Post Office, the first building to fly the Irish flag during the Easter Rebellion of 1916. The National Gallery of Ireland is one of the finest in Europe with one whole exhibit devoted to the works of J.B. Yeats brother of the poet W.B. Yeats. Take a stroll round St. Stephens Green before heading to Grafton Street one of Dublin's most stylish shopping streets. Grafton Street is home to street artists and musicians and has a wonderful atmosphere.

Take some time to visit Trinity College, the oldest university in Western Europe founded in 1592. The university houses the Long Room home to the Book of Kells. The Book of Kells is one of Dublin's most popular and significant visitor attractions. Dating back to around 800AD, it is considered to be one of the most beautiful religious manuscripts in the world. Written on vellum, it contains a Latin text of the four gospels in script accompanied by whole pages of detailed illustration. The book has been on display since the 19th century and has the dubious honor of having been defaced by Queen Victoria. A decorated page and a page of script can normally be seen when you visit.

The library contains busts of some of its most famous scholars many of them writers and intellectuals. One of its most famous students was Jonathon Swift who wrote "Gulliver's Travels". Swift later went on to become Dean of St. Patrick's Cathedral another must visit on your list. St. Patrick's Cathedral was built in the 12th Century and beautifully restored with money provided by the Guinness Family one of Ireland's most famous families.

The Guinness brewery was founded in 1759 by Arthur Guinness and is now the largest brewery in the World. No visit to Dublin would be complete without tasting the "black stuff" first hand. To many, Guinness is one of the most important features of Ireland. With 300 million pints exported every year, it is no surprise to learn that Ireland is the world's leading beer exporter. Completed at the cost of IR£30 million, the Guinness Storehouse is a fine addition to Dublin's ever-growing list of purpose-built attractions. Set inside a converted 18th century fermentation building, it comprises of six floors linked by a giant atrium in the shape of a pint glass. Although the actual brewery is not open to the public, the storehouse's new exhibition space outlines the 200-year history of the company and reveals many brewing secrets. The models and displays of the exhibition are followed by a short film and a glass of the famous brew.

If your schedule allows there are some interesting day trips which you can take from Dublin. To the North West is the Boyne Valley. There is historical evidence in this area dating back to 6000 B.C. New Grange passage is said to be the oldest man made structure in the world dating to 3000 B.C. The Wicklow Mountains to the south of Dublin are sparsely populated and enjoy a slow pace of life. The monastic settlement of Glendalough in the middle of the valley dates to the 6th Century.

Founded by St. Kevin this is a powerful, peaceful, beautiful place and well worth a visit. You can take a trip to the Curragh of Kildare for a flutter on the horses. The Curragh consists of 4000 acres and is home to over 60 race horse trainers. It has produced some of the most expensive race horses in the world with prices running into 7 figures.

All in all you will have a wonderful and energetic time in Dublin. Be prepared to walk as it is very easy to get around on foot. And you will need to walk off those Irish breakfasts, with bacon, sausage, black and white pudding, eggs, soda bread and pots of delicious Irish tea. Hmmm!!!.....

"Go N'eirigh an bother leat" and have a wonderful time in the Capital of the Emerald Isle.

Copyright 2005 Fionnuala Downhill

Fionnuala Downhill is President of Four Corners Hotels offering discount hotels around the world. She is a native of Ireland. http://www.fourcornershotels.com/index.php/IE--Dublin

Great Activities And Adventures In Kauai

2007-06-19T06:04:00.001-05:00

by: Stephanie Coburn
Hawaii is made up of several islands and Kauai is one of the most famous and certainly has many activities to occupy tourists on vacation. In fact, Kauai has so many things to do that you may not want to travel to any of the other islands because you are having so much fun! In fact, the Hawaiian island of Kauai is the oldest of all the Hawaiian islands and is known for its dense and beautiful foliage and flowers as well as its amazing strands of beaches. Whether you are heading to Kauai on a family vacation, honeymoon or business trip you will find plenty of activities geared to you. The following suggestions are just a few of the many activities awaiting you on tropical Kauai island.
Kauai Activity #1 Helicopter Ride

A helicopter ride is an amazing experience in itself, but when you are flying over the breathtaking landscape of Kauai you will certainly be blown away. The reason is because on the helicopter ride you will get an up close view of the most amazing waterfalls, cliffs, and foliage you have ever seen. Another benefit you will receive when taking a helicopter tour is an up close view of Mountain Waialeale, which without taking a helicopter tour you will be unable to see. This activity can be a little on the expensive side, however if you want to take the most amazing photos you should definitely do so.

Kauai Activity #2 Movie Tours

Kauai is very popular as a location for movies and over the years many movies have been filmed there, at least in part. As a result, there are movie tours you can take to see where different movies were filmed and learn a little more about the filming process. For example, South Pacific, Gilligan’s Island, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Jurassic Park and many other movies have locations that are part of the movie tours in Kauai. So, if you are a movie fan, or simply a fan of one of these movies, you might enjoy taking a bus, jeep, or even helicopter tour of these locations.

Kauai Activity #3 Koke’e State Park and Waimea Canyon

Exploring Koke’e State Park and Waimea Canyon provide tourists an incredible view of Kauai. Within the State Park there are many different hiking paths that lead to Waimea Canyon as well as others that take you to other strategic areas for viewing. The Park is huge so you can spend a whole day exploring. Make sure you take a hiking path to the Canyon where you will be amazed with all the colors that make up this 10 mile long and two mile wide canyon. It is simply awe-inspiring to take in and you should spend some time simply appreciating nature and the beauty of Kauai.

Kauai Activity #4 Waialua River Valley

The only river in Hawaii that can be traveled offers amazing boat and kayak trips for tourists. This provides an amazing view of foliage, wildlife, as well as the Fern Grotto. Spend the day navigating the river in a kayak or boat and truly enjoy the beautiful scenery of the island and the Waialua River.

Kauai Activity #5 Limahuli Garden and Preserve

One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the United States, Limahuli Garden and Preserve offers guests 1000 acres of flora and fauna. There are guided tours if you are interested in an in depth tour and learning more about the garden and its plants and flowers, or else you can tour the botanical garden on your own.

Kauai Activity #6 Play Golf

Kauai does not have a lot of golf courses, but the ones it does have are out of this world and were designed by PGA heavyweights like Jack Nicklaus. As a result, if you enjoy playing golf then you must check out at least one of these amazing courses on Kauai Island. If you are visiting in the fall you might want to attend the PGA’s Grand Slam, of course you would need to buy tickets early.

Kauai Activity #7 South Shore

The South shore of Kauai is absolutely amazing in its beauty. You will enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches, the deep blue ocean, and the unbelievable sunsets. Also, most every day the sun is shining so you can work on your tan or simply engage in some of the fun beach activities in and around Poipu.

Kauai Activity #8 Sugar Plantation Tour

If you are interested in learning a little of the history of the islands while you are on vacation you should definitely tour the sugar plantation in order to get an idea of how the island survived for more than one hundred years. You can take a tour or else visit the free museum, depending on your schedule and budget.

Kauai Activity #9 Luau

Hawaii is known for luaus and when you are on Kauai you should definitely attend a luau. There are many that take place and your hotel may be the best place to view this Hawaiian tradition.

Kauai Activity #10 Na Pali Coast

Last, but certainly not least, is a tour of the Na Pali Coast. This is considered one of the most amazing areas in Kauai, however you can’t reach it on foot. You will need to take a Zodiac raft or else a helicopter tour in order to really get a great view of the area. You will be overwhelmed for sure and this tour should be first on your list!

There are plenty of other activities to keep you busy when you are on Kauai from eating in some of the finest restaurants, shopping, playing tennis, and simply enjoying the beauty that is Kauai. However, the length of your vacation will determine how many activities you can actually take in, as well as your budget. So, try the top 10 list here and if your wallet and schedule allow check out some of the other amazing opportunities available on the island of Kauai.

Stephanie Coburn is the Marketing Director for Wailua Bay View, an oceanfront Kauai vacation rental. She has personally researched and experienced many of the activities and destinations graced with Hawaiian culture as described above. Learn more at http://www.wailuabay.com.

Adventure Travel on Horseback

2007-06-19T06:02:00.001-05:00

Packing for Hawaii-How to Make the Most of What’s in Your Suitcase

2007-06-19T06:01:00.000-05:00

by: Stephanie Coburn
Making vacation plans for Hawaii probably has you searching all your favorite stores for the best tropical inspired clothing of the season, however packing for a Hawaiian vacation requires more than simply picking out tropical themed clothing. In fact, to properly pack for Hawaii you need to consider not only the weather, but the activities you will be participating in while you are there. This is where pre-planning comes into the picture. If you pre-plan activities you will have a better idea of what your vacation will entail and what you should pack than if you wait and decide when you arrive in Hawaii. Deciding to plan activities when you arrive in the islands will mean that you will over-pack and have a difficult time managing your bags not to mention deciding what to wear because you have too many options. Plan ahead, and follow these tips for packing for Hawaii.
Make a List

You have heard time and time again that making a list is the most productive way to accomplish anything because you keep track of what you need done as well as what has been done. The same goes with packing for Hawaii. You may have saved past lists from other vacations, and this is great because you can review the list for items you will need to pack for Hawaii. For example, the toiletries, medicines, and personal care items you need will be the same for most all vacations, just make sure sunscreen makes it onto the list. Once you have those items taken care of, then you should consider what you will be doing in Hawaii. Since the majority of Hawaii’s most amazing attractions from the beach to the gardens and canyons are outside, you will want to make sure you pack adequate comfortable clothing that will keep you cool in the warm climate, and that is also comfortable for walking, cycling and other physical activities.

Casual clothing like shorts, lightweight pants, skirts, tank tops, cotton polo shirts and the like are suitable for Hawaii because they are cool, comfortable and lightweight. Another tip for your clothing is to make sure it fits. If you pack ultra tight clothing or clothing that is simply too small you will be uncomfortable throughout the trip and if you sweat, which is very possible under the Hawaiian sun, you could end up with a bad rash. So, focus on comfortable, lightweight, fitting clothes for your daytime attire. If you plan on visiting the volcanoes or are cold natured you should include some light sweaters or jackets just in case it is cool.

You will also be visiting the beach, swimming pools, and waterfalls while you are in Hawaii, maybe even on a daily basis. Because of this, you also need to pack several bathing suits so that you can wash one a day and wear a different one. Nobody wants to wear wet bathing suits, or dirty bathing suits, so pack at least two. A cover up for women is essential as well, and men might choose to pack extra t-shirts if they need to cover up.

The sun is strong in Hawaii so be sure to pack several strengths of sunscreen even if you are planning on getting a great tan. The first few days apply a higher strength SPF and then after you have a base tan you can tone down the level of sunscreen you are using. The point of this is that if you avoid sunscreen you will more than likely get burned your first day out, which will ruin the rest of the week for tanning, be very painful, and negatively impact your vacation. By using sunscreen you will get a great tan, avoid the sunburn, and truly enjoy your Hawaiian vacation. Also, since the sun is bright you will want to make sure you pack sunglasses and a hat. Squinting is no way to enjoy your vacation, and a great pair of shades will help you relax and enjoy your beautiful Hawaiian vacation.

Consider the nightlife in Hawaii. Will you be attending a luau, an upscale restaurant, dances or parties? These are all considerations and will require different modes of dress. It is a lot easier to shop for your clothing before your vacation than spend precious vacation hours shopping in overpriced stores. If you need formal wear for several occasions, be sure to pack it properly to avoid wrinkles. You will be relieved to have just what you need to wear to every nightly function you attend. Remember, however, the islands are more laid back and the word “formal” is not taken in the same way as “formal” might be understood on the mainland. As a result, semi-formal will most likely work for the majority of Hawaiian events.

Shoes, what a difficult thing to pack! Everyone wants to pack a different pair of shoes for every outfit, and this simply will not work when trying to fill a small suitcase. As a result, choose one pair of shoes for water activities, one for athletic activities, and one or two for casual or dressed up activities. That way, you save space in your luggage and won’t be overburdened with choices.

Jewelry is another topic that you should consider before traveling to Hawaii. Many activities on the islands will require you leave your jewelry in the hotel, and in fact the hot weather simply is not conducive to a lot of jewelry. In addition, when you wear fine jewelry you will make yourself a target for theft and will need to increase security options. As a result, decide on some basic pieces of jewelry that will flatter all of your clothing and travel with those. You will feel more secure knowing your jewelry is safe at home than locked in a hotel safe.

Remember, this is not a comprehensive list of things to pack, just some simple suggestions to keep in mind when you pull out your suitcases and start trying to fill them with your entire closet. Be conservative and keep in mind that most condos and hotels have laundry services in case you need to do a load of laundry on vacation. Also, you will want to make a comprehensive list before you begin packing and review it for things that are truly unnecessary. Then, begin packing and rest easy knowing you will pack everything you need, but not over pack for the first time in your life. You will really enjoy Hawaii when you have the right clothes for every occasion, but not so many that it is a burden traveling.

Stephanie Coburn is the Marketing Director for Wailua Bay View, an oceanfront Kauai vacation rental. She has personally researched and experienced many of the activities and destinations graced with Hawaiian culture as described above. Learn more at http://www.wailuabay.com.

The Real Australia

2007-06-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

by: Cusion Delause
Australian vacations are great for extended holidays and summer fun particularly if you like the warmer weather. In fact, since Australia is located in the Southern Hemisphere a hot summer in the United States will be a nice winter in the land down under. You might even think about taking an Australia cruise during this time of year. Take your swim suit, your sun cream and your spending money and you will bve all set for the trip of a lifetime.
When you first decide on taking an Australian holiday you will probably run into a challenge trying to decide where to go because the options are simply endless. There are so many great places to visit such as Sydney - the home of the Harbour Bridge, Melbourne - the home of AFL, Adelaide - teh City of Fine Wine and Alice Springs - the home of Ayers Rock. Don't get discouraged because you might be able to do more than you think since you will certainly be able to book cheap airline flights within Australia to get around the country while you are there.

Australian vacations offer something for everyone no matter where you end up traveling in the country. Sydney will enhance your sense of culture. Be sure and visit the Opera House. Melbourne is an extremely cosmopolitan city full of jumping clubs and great restaurants.

Other Australian vacations can take you into the outback where you can see the real Australia that you have only seen on television. The Aborigines live throughout the country too and have a culture well worth discovering. If you can take as much as a month in Australia then you will have the chance to really enjoy the experience. Nothing less than two weeks will do for your first trip to this diverse country.

Cusion Delause is the owner of Australia DEX which is a premier resource for Australia information. for more information, go to http://www.australiadex.com

Top Holiday Destinations 2005

2007-06-19T04:56:00.000-05:00

Copyright 2005 Hugh Griffin

Spain and France are still the top holiday destinations for British tourists. However recent statistics show that tourism in Eastern Europe is rising sharply. In particular the number of trips to Poland and Bulgaria has increased significantly. Statistics from the Office of National Statistics showed that tourist numbers visiting Bulgaria and Poland nearly doubled while visits to China increased by 43 per cent. Trips to India were up by 33 per cent and trips to Mexico increased by 21 per cent.

Although Spain and France are still the top holiday destinations for British tourists the number of trips to Spain rose by only 1 per cent while trips to France fell by 3 per cent. Trips to Portugal also dropped slightly (5 per cent down). A leading travel agent suggested that the reason for the increase in popularity of Eastern Europe was price. A hotel in Paris charges a much higher price per person per night than a hotel in Budapest or Prague. In addition the cost of eating out and the cost of alcohol, food and entertainment was likely to be considerably less in Eastern Europe.

Another factor to consider is the overseas property market. With spiralling property prices in Western Europe many families buying a holiday home are increasingly finding that they are being priced out of the Spanish Costas and the French Riviera. John Hickson, an independent property expert with Saharapress.com said that he had seen "a huge increase in interest in properties in Croatia and Bulgaria in recent years". The property buyer can simply get more house for their money in countries with lower property prices. In addition it was felt by some that Spanish property prices were near their peak while Eastern European property was expected to increase in value and would therefore represent a better investment. Inmueble magazine reports that foreign demand for Spanish property has fallen by 9 per cent. However prices in coastal regions rose by up to 15 per cent in 2005 and are expected to grow by between 7 and 9 per cent in 2006.

Lastminute.com have reported that summer breaks in Tunisia are increasingly popular and saw a significant increase in bookings for Tunisia this summer. Greece and Italy were the company's top destinations this summer. ABTA, the Association of British Travel Agents, said that short-haul destinations accounted for 90 per cent of holidays. Overall ABTA reported that the number of foreign trips from the UK has increased to 42 million per year. This compares to about 12 million trips in the 1970s.

The number of British tourists travelling to holiday destinations abroad is shown below:

1. Spain 13.8 million 2. France 11.6 million 3. USA 4.1 million 5. Italy 2.9 million 6. Greece 2.7 million 7. Germany 2.3 million 8. Turkey 1.1 million 9. Czech Republic 0.7 million 10. India 0.6 million

About The Author:

Hugh Griffin is an independent travel writer and has written a number of highly acclaimed travel guides available at http://www.tourist-information-worldwide.com and http://www.horizonpress.com/diy-holidays sponsor