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Selasa, 30 November 2010

Cheap Discount Holiday Travel For Families

Many people believe that it’s more difficult to get cheap holidays for families, but if you research, you can find some great money-saving deals.

Family holidays are inevitably expensive because of the number of people travelling. In addition, most families are bound by school holidays, which means that they have to travel during the year’s peak seasons – Christmas, Easter and the summer. Try these tips to help keep costs down.

1. Travel out of season

If you have children that are below school age, then travelling outside the school holidays is a good way to keep costs down. Flying just a week before or after the main holiday periods can make a big difference to the price. For short breaks, try mid-week instead of weekend.

2. Try different accommodation

Instead of hotels, look into renting a self-catering apartment or villa. These are usually much cheaper than hotel accommodation and although you have to buy your own food, you can still make good savings, and you get the additional benefit of flexibility – eat and come and go as you choose – which is ideal for a family holiday.

3. Book early

If you like to return to the same place each year, then think about booking early. The earlier you book, the cheaper it can be and you can always book your accommodation and then wait for cheap flights to be released later on in the year. Register with online sites to get notification of good deals so that you can make savings as soon as possible.

4. Special family deals

Look out for package holidays that offer free flights or accommodation for children. Check out the small print to make sure that you really are getting a deal, but these are often great ways of ensuring that you don’t have to spend a fortune on your family holiday.

By starting early and taking the time to look at special offers and family deals, you can take your family on a great holiday for a great price.

Senin, 29 November 2010

Prepare Yourself For A Perfect Camping

Camping can be a great get away from the workweek we all experience. It is a time to enjoy the outdoors and get a breath of fresh air, BUT have you ever thought that whether you have everything you need to do a perfect camping trip? To answer this question, it would be better to draw on my camping experience in your efforts to determine which camping equipment would be best suited for your excursion. You should always be prepared for any type of condition or coincidences that may happen.

No matter where or with whom you decided to go, there are a few things that you should always remember to take with you. Some of the basic indispensables, that will not only make your trip fun, but much more enjoyable and safe are a tent, sleeping bag, proper clothing, proper footwear, flashlight, backpack, food, water, Two decks of playing cards, Reflector Oven or Camp stove Oven, Hatchet, Bow saw, Trash bags - Use grocery bags during the day and put in a large bag at night, Matches - The strike anywhere type, Toilet paper, Fuel funnel- For stove and lantern, in a plastic bag, Tent repair kit, Mixing bowl, and a compass.

With your kit, you are ready to go camping anywhere at anytime. So make your list and take a day to gather supplies and set up your own camp kit, you will be glad you did. BUT like many other activities the best time to purchase cheap camping equipment is at the end of the season. It can take some time to choose the equipment that is best for you, but also allows you to buy cheap camping equipment with the selection being so large.

The best thing to enjoy your camping is to try to make some activities you have never used to do like, hiking, fishing, rafting, it is your chance now to do whatever you dreamt to do. You want to remember to keep safety in mind while camping. Know where you are going and how to get home.

Minggu, 28 November 2010

What is the use of discount coupon book?

If I ask you would you like to have a good deal while you shop, dine or travel? I’m sure your answer would be yes. Therefore, you can make huge savings while you purchase food items, grocery, stationery, apparels or visit different attractions of a place. The best way to make a good deal and save money on your purchases is discount coupons. Many big companies offer good savings and rebates on these coupons.

How to get discount coupons?

1. You can get these discount coupons through different websites. Here you don’t need to clip the coupons from newspapers or magazines and you just have to print the online coupons from your computer. Many of these coupon companies offer huge discounts and savings on restaurants and entertainment all over the country.

2. Discount coupon is also available through newspapers and magazines where you get these coupon advertisements. Here you need to take off the coupon advertisement carefully out so that you can use them later.

3. If your friends or relatives hold any of such coupons, you can easily borrow from them or necessary can exchange them with the coupon you hold as per your needs.

4. One great way is to purchase an entertainment book which is actually a restaurant and activity guide providing you special discounts and offers from many of the finest restaurants, hotels and attractions across different places. Entertainment book is usually available through fund raising groups or organizations as fundraisers. The companies, businesses or restaurants incorporated into these books are not paid members. They are listed on the basis of awards, reviews and personal recommendations. This book is a good source for fund raising because there is no upfront cost, it is issued on consignment, unsold books could be easily returned, everyone knows about it, promotional materials available at no cost.

To find more visit our recommended website entertainment-coupon-book-2006.info

Sabtu, 27 November 2010

Stag Do in Nottingham – Quad Bike Trekking

One of the best locations for stag do is Nottingham, the first UK city to relax its drinking laws thus having the highest density of licensed premises in the country filled with party loving crowd. Stag weekends in Nottingham are filled with thrilling stag activities like quad biking, off road karting, clay pigeon shooting, greyhound racing, five a side football matches and much more!

The Thrill of Quad Biking

A fully automated 250cc Polaris Trailblazer quad bike, which is twice as powerful as the 125cc Yamaha Breeze quad bike with a speed of over 40 mph - sounds exciting! Well, you can surely ride one if you are on a stag weekend in Nottingham. You will be given some initial driver briefing and then you will have 70 acres of woodland before you to enjoy the thrill of quad biking. A maximum of five people are allowed per session accompanied by one instructor. This stag weekend activity lasts for 1½ hour including the briefing, and each rider gets to experience the thrill for at least ½ hour.

You start this exciting stag weekend activity by taking a few laps of the dirt speed oval to get used to the powerful 250cc Polaris Trailblazer. Then starts the fun as you travel through the gorge crossings, the swamps and the woodland passages. Are you ready for the big challenge?

Benefits of Stag Weekends in Nottingham

If you are in love with adventure and exciting outdoor activities, stag weekend in Nottingham is the best option for you. You indulge in thrilling and challenging stag do like the quad biking and off road karting. Chillisauce brings for you all types of ideas for the perfect stag weekends, stag parties and stag nights. The quad bike trekking in Nottingham serves the purpose of a stag weekend as promised by Chillisauce – it drives away the monotony from your daily life and fills you with fresh energy to face the world with a smile.

Jumat, 26 November 2010

Wheeled Luggage, Why Did It Take So Long?

Title:
Wheeled Luggage, Why Did It Take So Long?

Word Count:

Remember when no one had wheeled luggage? Those days are long gone, yet it amazes me it took so long for someone to cater to the travel industry with something as simple as wheels. Wheels have been around for thousands of years and yet we just recently in the scope of things realized how beneficial it would be to have wheels on other things besides cars and bikes.

The people who needed wheeled luggage the most were pilots and stewardesses who had to carry their bags all over the airport everyday. Then the Rollaboard was created by Travelpro founder Robert Plath. He made Travelpro luggage in his garage, while working as a pilot at Northwest Airlines. When other pilots and consumers asked for the luggage , Travelpro Luggage was born. The Rollaboard was quickly copied by competitors and the 22-inch Travelpro Luggage Rollaboard is now the industry standard.

You and I need wheeled luggage now to make those connecting flights at the airport. You can find luggage carriers that are topped off with suitcase on top of suitcase at most major airports. People running to catch a plane trailing behind them is their luggage rolling along at 50 miles per hour. It is hard to remember back before this luxury was around because it is so common in our world today.

If you are considering buying wheeled luggage you need to consider a couple of things like the quality of the wheels, if it has a telescoping handle and the material it's made from. If you travel very frequently you also need to look at the durability of the wheeled luggage, so it will survive the rough handling it will go through.

Depending on your needs you could use a wheeled garment bag, wheeled carry-on luggage or a wheeled duffel bag. The convenience and time saving qualities of wheeled luggage makes them a great asset for any traveler. Since most manufacturers now have wheeled luggage everyone can afford them.

Kamis, 25 November 2010

Monaco – The Wealthy Conclave of Europe

Perched over the Mediterranean Ocean, Monaco is a picturesque country. With very high prices, most travelers can only afford to spend one day in this conclave for the rich.

Monaco

The principality of Monaco is a bizarre little place. Situated to the east of the French Riviera, the country is very small and dominated by the city of Monte Carlo. Everything in the principality caters to the wealthy, so budget travelers beware.

Historically, the Grimaldi royal family has and continues to dominate Monaco. There influence is everywhere and, as you’ve probably noticed, one of them seems to be in tabloid news every day. Regardless, they have managed to stay in power for hundreds of years and turned Monaco into the expat haven of Europe through lax tax laws.

Monte Carlo

Monte Carlo is the only city of significance in Monaco. The city is perched above the ocean and fairly dramatic. There is an old Europe charm, but modern hotels, resorts and so on are blended in nicely. Instead of Ford or Toyota dealerships, Monaco is peppered with Ferrari and Porsche stores. This upgrade in cost occurs consistently throughout the city and it is the only place I’ve ever paid $75 for dinner in a Mexican restaurant.

No mention of Monte Carlo would be complete without mentioning Formula One racing. Every year, the city hosts the Monaco Grand Prix on the tiny streets of the city. The race is a bit boring because it is nearly impossible to pass, but attending the race is definitely something you should do at least once.

The Monaco Grand Prix is the coming out party for the extremely wealth. The harbor is full of yachts that make an oil tanker look small. There is more jewelry and glitz than you can possibly imagine. The decadence factor is through the roof and the people watching aspect is incredibly entertaining. Although you may come away a bit disgusted by the over indulgence, you’ll definitely come away with some good stories.

Monaco and Monte Carlo are definitely worth a one-day trip if you are visiting the French Riviera. Just make sure you’ve warmed up your credit cards.

Rabu, 24 November 2010

How to Get the Lowest Airfare Possible

Everyone knows that air travel can be expensive and we are all looking for ways to get it a little cheaper. With all of the added fees and such, there is little left to the imagination of the extreme costs that come with this form of travel. There are however ways that one can ensure they are getting the lowest airfare possible without having to go into the poor house to do it. All you need to do is make a few plans and there is no reason why you can not travel for a decent amount of money on pretty much any airline that is currently in operation.

First and foremost you should plan ahead if you want the lowest airfare. Airlines will give deep discounts to those that book well in advance of the departure time. If you know when you need to leave then this is a good idea. You can book in advance for up to eight months on most airlines and this will mean that you have some of the best rates. Those that get their reservations in well ahead of time and are on the plane first get the best rates for that flight. This method is great for those that know when and where they are going to be traveling and that can mean a large discount.

For those that can not schedule in advance there is the good old stand by system to make for the lowest airfare. In the event of a cancellation the airline is eager to fill that void. In this event, there is a very good chance that you can get the seat at a greatly reduced rate. This is due to the fact that the airlines want to make sure that they have as many people on each flight as possible to make sure that there is enough profit to mandate the flight. Of course there is a chance that you may not be able to get on the flight if there are no cancellations. And the fact is that you have to be in the terminal waiting for the cancellations. This can mean some very long waits indeed.

For those that are internet savvy there is the popular online discount houses to get the lowest airfares. These sites are very popular and have been saving people millions of dollars in airfare for the years that they have been in business. Using a direct link to the airline these sites will search the best possible packages to make sure that you get only the lowest fares.

Selasa, 23 November 2010

Get all the excitement for your kids with Disneyland discount coupon

Every kid fills with excitement when he is taken to the world of fun and enjoyment i.e. Disneyland. Now it has become even easier with discount coupons that let you buy all the fun for your child such as movies, games, toys, characters and much more. There are many discount packages and special offers which are usually offered during value season.

Disneyland fun packages include
1. Accommodations at a Disneyland hotel conveniently located resort

2. Disneyland resort park hopper bonus ticket

3. Early entry into Fantasyland in Disneyland

4. Allowing its visitors to interact with Disney character in Mickey Mouse Toon Town an hour earlier than public opening

5. Preferred seating to Playhouse Disney and opportunity to select attractions in Disney’s California Park

Other discounts such as magic for less travel which offers free pack to guests with free dining worth $1000. There are other things such as handy water bottle and neck wallet that you can take during Disney vacation.

You also get Disney cruise line discounts and other hotel room reservations include AAA discounts, senior discounts, military discounts, annual pass holder discounts and Disney visa discounts.

1. AAA discounts could be availed by people who possess a valid AAA membership. Disney needs your AAA membership number to book this type of discount.

2. Senior discounts are for senior citizens over the age of sixty and are subject to availability. You need to book these early and should possess a valid ID at the time of check in for availing such discount.

3. Military discounts could be availed by any active or retired military person and need to present military Id at time of check in.

4. Annual pass holders are also entitled to such discount and will have to provide with annual pass ID.

5. Disney visa discounts depend upon season.

For more information on discount coupons visit our recommended website entertainment-coupon-book-2006.info

Senin, 22 November 2010

César Manrique – The Most Celebrated Citizen Of Lanzarote

If you have ever visited Lanzarote you are bound to have come across the name César Manrique. Below we take a closer look at Lanzarote’s most famous citizen.

If it’s an interesting mixture of culture and art you are looking for in your holiday destination then the 30 mile long island of Lanzarote may just hold the key. Much of the sculptures and artistic influence which can be found on the island are as a direct result of one man’s amazing vision: César Manrique

Born on the island in 1919, Manrique established himself as a local hero through his dogged determination in the 1960s to ensure that the problems which mass tourism were bound to bring along were completely avoided and the wonderful environment of Lanzarote was preserved. It is his incredible foresight which has left Lanzarote looking like a very different holiday destination to some of its other cousins in the Canaries. Lanzarote today is still a place where buildings cannot exceed a certain height and houses with a sea view are a certain colour.

By combining his farsightedness with his other talents as a painter, sculptor, architect, ecologist, urban developments planner, Manrique not only ensured that Lanzarote was preserved but also that his vision was literally to be found in every nook and cranny of the island. His most famous creations however are probably the Jameos del Agua (underground volcanic caverns transformed into concert halls) and the Mirador del Rio (a specially created viewpoint with a café and restaurant).

Ironically this Lanzarote citizen, who had long campaigned against the amount of traffic on the island, was killed in a car accident in 1992. Now it is possible for visitors to the island of Lanzarote to not only appreciate his work all over the island but also to visit his home which has been turned into a gallery and museum.

Minggu, 21 November 2010

Los 7 Mejores Musicales

Aquí te presento una lista de las películas mas destacadas en la sección de musicales para que disfrutes y entretengas.

La novicia rebelde (The Sound of Music):
La clásica historia de la familia Van Trapp en Austria y la niñera, protagonizada por Julie Andrews en 1965, todavía sigue siendo entretenida ya tractiva para la educación de los niños. La trama, la música, las visuales y el mensaje son parte de la niñez de muchos de mi generación.

Chicago:
Del musical teatral protagonizado en cine por Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones y Richard Gere es otro de los recomendados. Su más reciente estreno en los 2000 es de una excelente actuación, baile y sonido que ha ganado un premio tras otro. Vale la pena!

Mouline Rouge:
Protagonizada por Nicole Kidman y Ewan McGregor , dirigida por Baz Luhrmann este increíble musical fue uno de los mas impactantes que vi. En 2001 Moulin Rouge logro traer a la pantalla grande, de la llegada de un humilde escritor ingles en 1900 a Paris, y su encuentro con una bailarina en Mouline Rouge.

Grease:
Grease es un musical para adolescentes, de 1978 que todavía vale la pena mirar. John Travolta comienza su carrera de galán en la pantalla grande, junto con Olivia newton John hacen un dúo inolvidable. Sus canciones siguen siendo un éxito hoy en día, reproducidas en transe y house music.

Mary Poppins:
Julie Andrews en 1964 de nuevo hace una brillante actuación junto con Dick Van Dyke convierten este musical en un mágico de Disney inolvidable para niños! Ese clásico nunca pasara de moda.

El Mago de Oz:
Judy Garland en 1939, junto con sus tres amigos (el hombre de lata sin corazón, el espantapájaros sin cerebro y el León sin coraje) siguen el inolvidable camino amarillo para llegar al Mago de Oz. Excelente.

La Bella y La Bestia:
Un dibujo animado de Disney para adultos y niños que fue capaz de ganar los corazones de millones de personas en 1991. Un gran mensaje para no guiarse por las apariencias, lleno de magia y entretenimiento. Increíble sonido!

Aquí termino mi lista, espero que la hayan disfrutado y que ahora puedan con seguridad elegir su próximo musical!

Sabtu, 20 November 2010

Leave Your Airport Parking Worries Behind

We all look forward to jetting off for a week or two in the sun, but flying from any airport automatically brings up the issues of how we will get to the airport from home and back again at the end of the trip.

For many, getting to the airport by bus or train is additional hassle that they just don’t want, particularly if they are catching an early flight, or will be travelling with young children or lots of luggage.

The easiest way to get to the airport is to drive, but parking can be expensive. On-site long term parking at any airport is costly and although you can take advantage of companies that offer parking outside the airport and bus you in, it’s just not as convenient as being dropped off right outside arrivals.

The best way to make sure that your journey to the airport is smooth and stress-free is to book a taxi. A good firm will pick you up from home and take you to the right entrance at your terminal, and will be waiting for you on your return. This means that all you have to do is pay the taxi at the beginning of your holiday and locate it when you get home. By using a taxi service, you’ll benefit from:

• Stress-free travel
• Space and comfort
• Arrival on time at the airport
• Save on expensive parking fees
• No bus transfers to off-site car parks

There are hundreds of airport taxi firms who can help you to extend your holiday by making the journey to and from the airport as easy and comfortable as possible. You don’t have to worry about the security of your car whilst you are away, or even take your car keys on holiday with you. Using a reliable taxi service means that you can be sure that you will be picked up when you arrive – even if your plane is delayed. You can’t beat that kind of service as a great addition to your long-awaited holiday.

Jumat, 19 November 2010

History of Southwest Airlines

Before 34 years back, Rollin King and Herb Kelleher got together and decided to start a different sort of airlines. They started it off with a simple notion that if you get your passenger to their destination on time and at the lowest possible fares then people are sure to fly through your airlines and this hold very true.

Therefore a small Texas Airlines turned to become one of the largest airlines in America. Today, Southwest Airlines flies more than 70 million passengers in a year to 60 great cities all across the country and that too 3,000 times in a day.

Southwest airlines have 436 of new jets in the nation with an average age of 9 years. Included in the same fleet are three flying killer whales, Shamu One, two and three, Lone Star One, Arizona One, California One, Silver One, Triple Crown One, Nevada One, New Mexico One and the newest addition Maryland One. Out of these Lone Star One is painted like the Texas flag to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Southwest Airlines, Arizona One symbolizes the importance of the state of Arizona to Southwest airlines, California One that is a high flying tribute to the state of California, Silver One is dedicated to the 25th Anniversary plane, Triple Crown One being dedicated to the Employees of Southwest airlines for their marvelous achievement of the five consecutive annual triple crown awards, Nevada One being a tribute to the state of Nevada, New Mexico One also known as Zia is painted in the bright yellow of the New Mexico flag and Maryland One with an artistic rendering of the Maryland flag.

During May 1988, Southwest airlines was the first airline to win the coveted Triple Crown for a month- Best on time Record, Best baggage handling and fewest customer complaints that has been won more tha 30 times along with five annual triple crowns for the year 1992, 1993,1994,1995 and 1996 and no other airlines contributed more than the Southwest airlines.

For detailed information, visit southwest-airlines-guide.info

Kamis, 18 November 2010

Stonehenge Sunrise

Amid the enigma and bewilderment that enshrouds a small part of Salisbury in England’s green and pleasant land, I stood in awe to witness one of the great wonders of the world.

Before me stood five thousand years of history, a mystery dating back to the ancient Druids and cultures long since lost to the passages of time.

Silhouetted against the pre-dawn sky, Stonehenge stood proud in the gloom, its pillars united as one structure, forged from the hand of man five millennia ago.

If only it could speak and expose its inner secrets, tell us tales of joy and sorrow, heroes and villains.

But for now it just sat and waited for the dawn of a new day, a new experience to add to the catalogues of history.

And then the sun peered its head above the horizon and the sky became a blend of reds, oranges and yellows.

From the darkness came shadows cast from the giant stone sentinels racing away across the grassy fields.

Suddenly the countryside was alive, awakened from its slumber and welcoming the early morning sun.

Daybreak was greeted by birds, dancing from stone to stone, playing atop this formation which dominates the local landscape.

The silence was broken from birdsong emanating from all around the stone circle, each nook and cranny a hideout for the little fellows.

First light was accompanied by a cool gentle breeze drifting sedately across the land bringing a chill to the skin.

But the greatest sensation was a feeling of solitude, an overwhelming sense of loneliness as the stones sat here long after their makers and intended ceremonies.

Stonehenge has seen a lot during a long and turbulent British history.

It must have been fascinating to have been an innocent bystander and witnessed the rise and fall of the Roman Empire.

But for now Stonehenge sits in a quite corner of England, greeting the dawn of a new day.

Rabu, 17 November 2010

The Ultimate Traveler’s Day Dream Come True

More than a few times, I’ve caught myself sitting at work day dreaming about dropping everything and just jumping on a plane. In October of 2003, I did just that.

Life can grind you down when you get in a rut. In my case, I had a particularly bad case of the blues in October 2003. My girlfriend and I had apparently come to an agreement that there was no need for me to exist on the face of the earth. My glamorous and exciting Internet business had become a bore. All and all, I was in a rut and needed a change. The travel gods apparently agreed.

On a Wednesday, I made the final decision to sell my business, get what I could for it and hit the road. The next day, I received a call from a man in Chicago what wanted to buy my web sites. This was particularly interesting since I hadn’t actually told anyone the sites were for sale. By the end of the day, we had agreed on a price, signed a contract and he was wiring the money.

First thing Monday morning, my bank verified the wired money had been received and credited to my bank account. I picked up a couple of American Express checks, packed a small backpack and headed to the airport in Los Angles, known as “LAX”.

The Dream Comes True

I walked into the international wing of LAX and did what every traveler has dreamed of doing. I stared at the flight board and just let the various destinations soak into my brain. After a few minutes, Asia percolated to the top of my grey matter and I started searching for the airlines with flights there.

After a few misses, I was able to get a ticket on a Korean Airlines flight to Bangkok. I passed through security, picked up a guidebook for Asia and headed to my gate. Three hours later, we lifted off the runway and I waived goodbye to rut for three months.

I’ve disdained heavy planning for my trips. I prefer a very loose schedule because I want time to live out unexpected events. If you ever get the chance to chuck everything and go travel for a few months, just do it. You never know when you’ll get the chance again!

Selasa, 16 November 2010

The Secret to Making a Successful Timeshare Purchase

Everyone has heard the horror stories associated with purchasing a timeshare property. Huge payments, poor accommodations, stolen funds, and resorts that shall we say have “lost their appeal”!

Well once you have decided to go the Timeshare rout for your vacations it is important to take into account a few factors when making your purchase decision. A Timeshare can be owned forever but most are sold after 8-9 years. This makes the price you pay very important if you hope to avoid a major loss when the time comes to sell.

When purchasing a Timeshare make sure the seller has an escrow arrangement with his or her solicitor (or accountant) to administer the sale of the property and handle the transfer of funds and title. Only when you are completely satisfied should you instruct the solicitor to release your money and certify the transfer. If you are offered a banked week, then check that the owner actually owns the week and that the Management Fees are up to date by contacting the Management Company and the exchange company.

Make sure the exchange company is informed of the change in ownership before transfer and always be sure you understand who in the purchase agreement (seller or buyer) will assume the costs of transferring the ownership of the unit. A "Right of Use" ownership transfer may cost from $140 to $1,700 and the transfer costs for a “Deeded" ownership may amount to as much as $3,000.

Only buy from the developer of the resort as a last choice alternative and if you do have to go that route be prepared to pay substantially higher prices for your Timeshare units.

The starting price for "sleep 6", peak season week in good quality resorts in most of Europe should be in or around $4000 and should provide good exchange power and minimum losses on resale. In the UK a larger unit in peak school season at a top class resort should cost you between $6,000 and $10,000, and most of your money should come back when you resell. Once you find what you want, bargain hard! It's a buyers market so take advantage!

Senin, 15 November 2010

Florentine Legends: “The Reversed Balcony”

Florence is a city full of history where it’s easy to be charmed by surrounds and you do not notice some little corners, minor ones that make you rediscover the city and the character of Florentine people.

One of these is little corners in Florence, perhaps surrounded by a legend, is in Borgo Ognissanti at number 12, where is located the reversed balcony. Admiring it is a real pleasure especially if you think about the legend that surrounds it, not because it was object of peculiar tales but because it reflects very well the city and its inhabitants character, reflection where I see myself too.

The reversed balcony that is located on the first floor, was built by assembling counter wise the classical elements of a regular balcony: the supporting corbels, its volutes and the balustrades where capitals are in place of the base.

The building dates back to the 16th century, and it seems to have been built in such a curious way as a request of the stable’s builder, due to some spites with the Duke Alessandro de’ Medici.

Looks like, that at the moment of the project proposal, this was rejected by the Duke, cause the balcony was too prominent (for some law of the age). After the first reject the builder presented the project a second time modifying a few things but leaving the balcony almost unchanged, of course the Duke Alessandro denied it again. At a third instance, trying to be salacious, the Duke wrote on his response: “yes on the contrary”. The builder, applying the answer to the letter, ordered to his architect to build the balcony upside-down. Perhaps the Duke Alessandro would have liked to punish the irreverent constructor, but as a Florentine … I think he appreciated and approved his presence of mind.

Minggu, 14 November 2010

Lake Vouliagmeni and its medicinal waters

The Lake Vouliagmeni is not only famous as a very beautiful spot but also but also as containing medicinal waters. This spot has been visited by people who wish to enjoy its waters for centuries, and is one of the most attractive areas in the Greek region of Peloponnese. Visitors approach in order to enjoy its beautiful shores, practice different water sports, relax in front of unique landscapes, taste excellent local dishes, and have a great time in a picturesque environment.

Lake Vouliagmeni has an extension of about 26 km or 15 miles, and is located within the municipality called after it, Vouliagmeni, at about 20 kilometers from the central area of Athens. This lake provides an ideal destination for all those who enjoy water related activities, and it is very common to see visitors fishing, swimming and even windsurfing in this region.

The municipality of Vouliagmeni has a population of about 4000 inhabitants, and offers a very beautiful scenery which combines the attractive of the water which the charm of an appealing mountainous background provided by the Hymettus mountains. This municipality has many beautiful beaches and shores, some of them by the sea and some others provided by Lake Vouliagmeni, but all of them beautiful and ideal for relaxing while observing unique sights.

Lake Vouliagmeni's waters partially come from underground currents from Mount Hymettus. This lake is at about 40 cm from the regular level of the ground and one of its most peculiar and appealing characteristics is based on the fact that its waters offer a constant temperature of about 24º C, a fact placed among the first qualities in the list of the lake's attractions.

Before the middle Ages, Lake Vouliagmeni was a cavern. This cavern became the actual lake after an important earthquake caused it to collapse and take the actual shape and characteristics. Nowadays, the lake can be still traced into Mount Hymettus, and it is possible to see, now and then, some experienced divers exploring it, although it is not recommendable to amateurs due to the important risks it implies.

Sabtu, 13 November 2010

Travelers Checks Versus Debit Cards

Debit And Credit Cards When travelling

My first time overseas, I had to exchange money in $200 of travelers checks to pay a mountaineering guide who hadn't heard of American Express. The bank charged me $8. During the same trip, I used my debit card at an ATM to get $200 from my checking account. two times home, I saw that the charge for this was two dollar, and that was the last time I used traveler's checks.

When an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) won't take two of the cards for some reason - and this will happen - I use the other card, which usually works fine. Credit cards may be less trouble than debit cards. Your liability could be zero on your stolen debit card, but you probably won't have access to your account until the matter is sorted out.

I usually carryover a debit card and a credit card when I travel now. I keep them well-hidden in two separate places. If they are stolen, which has never happened yet, they've either zero liability, or a fifty dollar liability limit for any unauthorized charges. Ask your bank or credit card company about this.

Of work, on longer trips it is a hassle to pay the credit card bill on time, which is not a problem with debit cards. carryover both, and on longer trips you can wait until you are a few weeks from home to use the credit card. That way you'll get there before the bill does.

An important advantage credit and debit cards have over travelers checks, is that when you need the local money, you'll almost always get a better exchange rate with your cards. Also, the money you get from the local ATM will truly be accepted everywhere, something even American Express Travelers Checks cannot promise.

i have nothing against American Express. two times, when I was robbed in Mexico, they quickly and curtiously replaced my stolen traveler's checks. Also, at times it is appropriate to carryover money in several forms, including theirs. However, times alter and ATMs are everywhere now, so my policyowner is : Travelers checks; don't leave home with them. You can take an American Express credit card instead.

Jumat, 12 November 2010

What's to Do for a Stag Night in Cardiff

Cardiff combines old and new in a vibrant city scene that is like no other in the world. A stag night in Cardiff can take advantage of the vivid nightlife, dip into the pool of local comedy talent at a Cardiff comedy club, or stretch into the next day with a variety of exciting activities in and around Cardiff and its surroundings. Cardiff may not be the first city you think of when you think of a stag night, but it has some fantastic offerings for a stag party that will never be forgotten.

If you enjoy a challenge, you'll find some spectacular stag night activities in Cardiff. The surrounding waterfalls and cliffs have given rise to the exciting extreme sport of coasteering, an amazing combination of swimming, hiking, cliff-jumping and traversing the cliffs that has been likened to whitewater rafting without the raft. Coasteering originated in Pembrokeshire in the early 80s, and has taken off as one of the hottest stag night activities in and around Cardiff. If that sounds just a wee bit TOO extreme, you can always compromise and take a canyoning jaunt through some of the most magnificent landscapes ever created.

Stag nights have matured along with the average age of the Stag. What was once a night out with the boys and a last hurrah replete with strippers, lap dances and far too much booze to be healthy has become, in many cases, a full weekend holiday that mingles active, extreme pleasures with a night of carousing in an unfamiliar town. A stag night in Cardiff offers a range of fun from comedy clubs to lap dancing, from archery and golf to dunesliding and abeiling. For your nighttime stag revels, you'll find world class nightclubs, lap dance clubs and many tour operators running party busses and party limos with the accent on naughtiness.

Kamis, 11 November 2010

How to Clean Your Hookah

Now that you have a new hookah, and you’re enjoying the fine smoking sensations of this unique water pipe, it’s time to consider something you may not have thought about before: maintenance.

That’s right; hookahs need to be cleaned periodically. The water in the vase acts as a filter for the smoke, and should be changed after every use. Also, smoke and particulate matter can cling to the inside of the hoses or stem. If your hookah gets too dirty it will not draw properly, or the smoke can start to taste stale. A regular cleaning regimen will prevent this. Make sure that you have a hookah cleaning brush among your hookah accessories.

A Quick Guide to Hookah Cleaning

It’s actually not difficult to clean a hookah. Make sure you use very hot water to clean the vase and stem, and that you never use water on the hoses unless they are made of washable plastic. Most importantly, however, remember that you can never use soap to clean a hookah; the residue will alter the flavor of the smoke.

To clean the vase, simply empty it, fill it with hot water, and scrub it with a hookah cleaning brush. The stem is even easier to clean: just run very hot tap water through it, until the water runs clear. As for the hoses, carefully detach them from the hookah, and then blow strongly through them to clear away any particles and dirt. It’s best to do this outside.

Once your hookah’s parts are cleaned, let them dry thoroughly. The best way to get them fully dry is to let them sit overnight on a towel. They’ll be ready again by morning. Another point to remember: always let the hookah dry thoroughly before you smoke it again; the only water in the pipe while smoking should be at the bottom of the vase.

As you see, it’s really not too difficult to clean a hookah. The cleaning regimen described here should be done about every 10 to 14 days, depending on how often you smoke your hookah. Most people will change the water in the vase before every smoking session, since hookah smoke tastes best when filtered through clean water.

Rabu, 10 November 2010

What's Hot In San Diego?

What’s hot in San Diego? That question is not referring to the babes on the beach and the correct answer is not typically the weather. If you are asked that question the politically correct way to answer is to name the top San Diego tourist destinations.

1) The San Diego Zoo. This world famous zoo is not your average see the monkey and feed the goats attraction. This zoo has animals you might not have even heard of, such as the Oryx, and animals that you may be familiar with like the Wild Ass. By the way the Wild Ass is the animal version not the human version.

2) Sea World. Where Killer Whales seem cute and cuddly. There are also sharks, manatees, a “forbidden reef” where you can pet the bat ray, an arcade, rides, and of course, the Shamu killer whale show.

3) San Diego Wild Animal Park. Visitors claim this is just like being on an African Safari without traveling to Africa and the possible exposure to Malaria. The animals are in the open as opposed to being caged. Visitors can see lions, giraffes, elephants, the Nairobi Village with shops, animals and restaurants and ride the Wgasa Bush Line Railway.

4) Tijuana. The favorite Mexican city of underage college students everywhere but another popular destination for those visiting San Diego. Be prepared to be on your guard as Mexico’s crime rate is higher than the United States’.

5) The Beach. No trip to San Diego would be complete without a trip to Mission Beach. Still keep your mouth shut about the babes here.

There are many other great attractions in the San Diego area, such as the town of La Jolla, the Coronado Hotel, great Mexican restaurants and the San Diego Maritime Museum. Just remember to do your research, have fun and most of all, relax.

Selasa, 09 November 2010

Maui Hotel Or Maui Condo?

Maui hotel or Maui condo? It's the burning question on everyones mind! What should you do? Maui hotel? Maui condo? Which should you choose? The sweat is pouring down your face and you can feel the pressure building...Okay! Okay! Maybe it's not that burning, after all! It is, however, a very important decision if you are planning a Maui vacation.

The answer depends on what you are planning to do on Maui. If you are going to Maui for just a few days, you will probably want to get a hotel room. Most hotels have very minimum stay requirements, if any. You can just check-in for a night or two and be on your way. They also have daily maid service to keep your room clean and fresh.

If you are looking for a longer stay, you will probably want to stay in a condo. Most condos have a minimum stay requirement, especially if you stay in a privately owned condo. Most private owners require you to stay a minimum of 7 nights. During holidays, the requirement may be as much as 14 nights. I know of a few owners that will allow a 5 night minimum stay but very few allow less than 5 nights.

If you want to do your own cooking to save some money while you are on Maui, you will want to stay in a condo. Most hotels will have a bare minimum as far as kitchens go while condos will have a completely furnished kitchen. The majority of the people I book for Maui accommodations want to cook at least a few meals in the thier unit so they almost always book Maui condos.

What do I recommend? I always recommend staying in a Maui condo! They are like a home away from home; although some of them may even be bigger than your home. They are fully furnished, they tend to have more room and you can wow everyone with your Maui vacation culinary skills!

Senin, 08 November 2010

Fishing Lovers Flock to Baja California, Mexico

Known for its enormous amounts of blue, black, and striped marlin, sailfish, dorado, wahoo, yellowfin tuna, roosterfish and more, Mexico sportfishing has become a favorite pastime of fishing and adventure enthusiasts worldwide. This ain't your normal, relaxing fishing trip folks. Sportfishing Cabo San Lucas is in a league all on its own. Definitely not for the faint of heart. And the holy grail of a catch, the blue marlin, is in high supply in the infamous Sea of Cortez. In fact the largest one caught last year weighed over half a ton! Bring the wife and kiddies, they'll have a great time too. Most of the resorts in Baja are wonderful vacation spots, with recreational experiences all are sure to enjoy. Snorkeling, diving, tennis, golf, aviaries, horseback riding, and much more. Many travel accommodations have special fishing packages which include airfare, hotel, and fishing charters on huge boats with mostly English speaking crews and at reasonable costs. Many hotels also offer special packaging, shipping, or smoking of your catch. Deep sea fishing in Los Cabos Mexico and the Sea of Cortez is an experience you will never forget. Think about the stories you'll be able to tell, wrestling a 500 pound marlin on a huge luxury charter, out in the warm waters of beautiful Baja. Sounds pretty nice.

Disclaimer: This blog or article is for information purpose only, and should not be treated a professional advise or price protection guarantee. This blog is mainly used for search engine optimization and other commercial purposes and it is advised that readers seek professional consultation in the field of interest for more information.

Minggu, 07 November 2010

The Rias Altas in Spain

The Rias Altas located in Spain are part of a group of larger formations spread within the coast of Galicia, conformed by the Rias Altas and the Rias Bajas. The Rias are estuaries origin when sea levels rise as well as they can be created by other geographical factors. The rias in Galicia where formed after he Ice Age after the sea level rose and gave shape to several indentations or estuaries throughout the coast line in this area.

The Rias, in Galicia, are considered to be among the main fishing areas in the world. Due to their nature, the rias or estuaries contain very peculiar ecosystems which often contain important amount of fish. This way, it is easy to imagine the importance of the fishing industry to this region and the way it gives shape to the traditions and landscapes visitors could meet, which, most of the times, are very beautiful and picturesque.

There are rias in several other regions of the world as well as near by the Galician ones in such a way that, per example, it is possible to find rias in Norway known as fjords, in Scotland known as lochs, and in Brittany known as abers. Although all of these rias have many aspects in common, they often also contain some characteristics which differentiate from each other and cause them to be unique.

The Rias Altas in Galicia are conformed by a group of several rias among which we can name the Ria de Ribadeo, the Ria de Ortigueira, and the Ria de Veveiro. The Rias Altas can be found in the area which goes from La Coruña to Ribadeo, within the northern coast of Galicia.

Besides their natural beauty and the sea related landscapes this area offers, it also has several other interesting attractions. While visiting the Rias Altas, tourists could meet interesting towns, full of antique constructions and charming areas as well as many different entertainment related spots from where to choose. This way, the rias are one of the most interesting destinations tourists could find in Galicia and one of the most peculiar and picturesque ones as well.

Sabtu, 06 November 2010

Spring Break

"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.

Jumat, 05 November 2010

Daybreak On Lake Windermere, England

Located at the heart of Lake District National Park, Lake Windermere is England’s largest expanse of freshwater.

It is also the perfect place to welcome in a new day during the warm summer months.

It was 4:00am and my boat rocked gently below the parting night sky. The brightest stars were still faintly visible to the naked eye.

The moon’s happy face was about to greet the sun and hail another beautiful day, these two celestial chums never far from one another in the heavens.

I fixed my fishing rod to the side of the boat and gazed up at the last embers of stars as they faded from view.

There was something liberating about the night sky; a yearning to explore further afield washed through me.

As my mind drifted, the sun began to climb above the horizon. Soon, a glorious array of colour spread throughout the morning sky.

As the sun rose higher, its first-light began to sparkle on the open water, like gems dancing at the new dawn.

Daybreak was greeted with the beautiful song of the skylark, nature’s most elegant alarm call.

I peered through the morning mist and scanned the perimeter of the lake. I was still alone, without any other person to witness morning’s glory.

I sensed a wonderful feeling of solitude. Secluded on my boat, I was the only person alive lucky enough to observe this new light.

A gentle breeze puffed its way across the lake, drawing ripples in the water.

As morning advanced, the mist cleared to reveal the naked mountains that form the backdrop to this exquisite picture.

The occasional being could be seen around the edge of the lake including a man and his dog, drawn from their slumber to enjoy the new day.

I had lost my private audience with Lake Windermere, but there was always tomorrow.

Kamis, 04 November 2010

The smarter way to experience the Great Pyramids

From their construction throughout the centuries the Pyramids of Giza have represented mystery, wonder and awe to all. They are perhaps the only great architecture of the ancients to have survived more or less completely intact.

The oldest pyramid at Giza is the Great Pyramid of Cheops, also known as Khufu, and is the largest known pyramid in existence. It was built around 2500 BC of over two million limestone blocks, each almost three tons in weight. An astonishing achievement and is believed to be the work of around twenty thousand slave workers.

Nearby are the smaller pyramids belonging to Cheops’s son and grandson as well as the Great Sphinx, known as Abu ‘l-Hol, a half-lion, half-man figure of majestic proportions.

Each evening at dusk an enormous sound and light show is played out and, despite its rather tacky touristy nature, is a real fast-track introduction to Egyptian history. Scout through the many persistent camel drivers around the site for a decent tour of the pyramids on humpback, with the best time of day being at daybreak or sundown as these times are quieter and offer the most breathtaking atmosphere to view the pyramids in.

As perhaps the best possible example of real estate location the forty acre Mena House offers rolling views of lush parkland and beautiful gardens right on the Saharan doorstep with the pyramids as a backdrop. Before 1870 the Mena House was King Khedive Ismail’s official hunting lodge, yet today it offers serene escape from the heady tourist areas that surround the Pyramids. Featuring and eighteen hole golf course, a gorgeous swimming pool set right in the lush gardens, and a certain aire of colonial grandeur felt perhaps most on the breakfast terrace, which Evelyn Waugh described best as being “like having the Prince of Wales at the next table”. To enjoy the Mena best choose a room in the old yet beautifully restored suites for a grand view of the Pyramids.

Rabu, 03 November 2010

Las Vega Coupon Book

The Lag Vega in a very expensive place but what this means for you is that in the competitive world of marketing everyone is looking to bring you in to their property to spend a little money, so they will offer you value, they will offer you bargains.

When you arrive in Las Vega by any mode you will find all the cabs are assortment of coupon book. This is important book as 24-7, Las Vega advisor, what’s on and Vegas value, offers you everything from dinning to show to tour what ever things that you can imagine after coming to Las Vega.

Las Vegas discount and coupon book is combination of 2 for 1 Las Vegas Buffets, Meals, Las Vegas hotel discount, Attraction, shopping information and so much more you can find here in Las Vega. Las Vega coupon book listing is the most complete, accurate, and up-to-date.

Las Vegas discount coupon books package is filled with many offers from Las Vegas casinos, attractions, shops and more normally loaded with special deals right in that casino. Everything you always wanted to know about Las Vegas coupon book.

You can find the Las Vegas coupon book at very low price. These are the actual Las Vegas coupons or vouchers that you present to the casinos, attractions and shows. This is a great package for savings and planning for your trip to Las Vegas. You can save money by using our Las Vegas coupons book.

Anna Josephs is a freelance journalist having experience of many years writing articles and news releases on various topics such as pet health, automobile and social issues. She also has great interest in poetry and paintings, hence she likes to write on these subjects as well. Currently writing for this website Borders Coupon Book. For more details please contact at annajosephs@gmail.com

Selasa, 02 November 2010

Halloween In Siberia – Sort Of

Live in another country and you’ll start to experience serious cultural differences. This is particularly true as I discovered with Halloween in Siberia.

Russian Holidays

I loved living in Russia and the primary reason was people. Russians love to celebrate and they are big into holidays. In Chita, Siberia, practically everyday was a holiday. During communism, Russia celebrated the worker with holidays such as bus driver day, teacher day and so on. When the fun loving Russians dropped communism from the menu, they decided to keep the holidays and add new ones for the new political bent. While Oligarchs’ Day isn’t yet a holiday, practically everything else is. With the approach of Halloween, I was ready to go nuts and show them a little of the American spirit.

At the time, I was teaching roughly 12 classes a week on law and business at Chita State Technical University. This gave me the opportunity to put together a wing dinger of a Halloween party since the students would generally follow directions without question. Accordingly, I announced to each class that we would be building a haunted house at my place and with roughly 150 students, it was going to be the haunted house of all houses. No student had any questions, but I should have noticed the blank stares.

The morning after making my announcements, the Dean of the University approached me. She had some rather pointed questions about Halloween. Nobody had ever heard of Halloween and no, children didn’t trick or treat. After all, what kind of person would trick a child? Americans do this? Every year? And they try to scare the children?
Why?

The more we went back and forth, the more I started to wonder about Halloween. When I made the fatal mistake of bringing up the headless horseman, the gig was up. The Dean gave me that furrowed brow perfected by all administrators. There would be no haunted house on October 31st.

After all, October 31st was the guy who makes duplicate keys day!

Senin, 01 November 2010

New Domestic Tourism Figures

Changes to the way the data was collected mean that it cannot be compared with previous years, but does enable month on month comparisons beginning with May 2006 data. The data will therefore become far more relevant in driving future marketing and commercial activity by the national tourist boards and partners in the industry.


The key findings of the report follow:

More than 138 million overnight domestic stays were made by UK residents last year.


The 2005 United Kingdom Tourism Survey indicates that domestic visitors spent £22.7 billion – an average of £51 per night – on trips in their own country.


Data from the UK's four national tourist boards shows that the number of UK residents' domestic trips remains well ahead of the 66.5 million trips taken abroad.


A total of 63% (87 million) were holidays, representing £14.5 billion – 64% – of spending.


The study found that people are also taking more short breaks. Nearly twice as many holidays of one to three nights (56 million) were taken last year compared with 30 million trips of four or more nights. The information echoes the growing global trend of shorter breaks spread throughout the year, according to VisitBritain.


The latest annual data has been collected by TNS for VisitBritain, VisitScotland, Visit Wales and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board under an improved methodology, which provides more accurate and detailed information.


Face-to-face interviews with 100,000 people were conducted as part of a national omnibus survey with 2,000 people surveyed each week. The results more accurately reflect the demographic characteristics of the UK adult population in terms of gender, age group, social class, working status and, with interviews undertaken in 140 locations throughout the UK, regional distribution, VisitBritain has claimed.