The Lake Tahoe

Good Family Fun at Kid Friendly Resorts

2009-03-23T05:28:00.001-07:00

Good Family Fun at Kid Friendly Resorts
By Steve Miers

If you are looking for a fun, family friendly vacation then you should vacation at kid friendly resorts. By staying at a kid friendly resort, you are going to experience an all inclusive vacation with everything that you need at your fingertips including food and games. Although you will still have fun exploring the local towns, you will also know that you can come back to the resort and relax or be active.

When traveling with kids it is important that you stay at a resort that is family friendly and kid friendly. Many resorts are geared towards couples or honeymooners. If you go to one of these resorts with your children you will find that there are not a lot of activities geared towards young children and that many of the activities and events are more for adults or couples.

So, what can you expect from a kid friendly resort? First of all, they know what kids want and families need. Most have been around for many years and have spent a lot of time and money investing in making their resort kid friendly. Some have even done research and worked with the younger crowd to ask them what they would like in a vacation.

Amenities, games, activities and even the food is kid friendly. These resorts typically have games appropriate for children of all ages from toddlers to teenagers. You will find anything from hopscotch games and three legged races to teen dance nights that you can attend but are also chaperoned by the staff at the resorts. Menus at these resorts also recognize that children can be picky eaters. They have added such things to their menus as macaroni and cheese, chicken fingers and build-your-own pizzas.

There have been more and more kid friendly resorts popping up around the world. Even other resorts may offer kid friendly weekends so that families can travel to that resort and have a kid friendly atmosphere and those wishing to travel sans kids can choose a different weekend to vacation. Before you plan your next family vacation, consider booking it at a kid friendly resort.

If you are looking for more information on beach resorts or perhaps discount cruises come visit us at http://www.vacationshowcase.org/

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Lodging in and Around Sheffield

2009-03-23T02:15:00.001-07:00

Lodging in and Around Sheffield
By Susan Ashby

Sheffield has taken many steps over the past few decades to attract tourism from the UK and around the world. Many of the citys most popular attractions have been built or refurbished in the last 20 years following the decline of the steel market. The number of dining and lodging places in the city has had to grow at about the same rate as tourist attractions to keep pace in housing the citys guests.

People coming to see the various attractions, take in a sporting event, or doing business in town have a range of accommodation options, particularly in the city centre. Several four star hotels in the area, like the Macdonald St. Pauls hotel or the Sheffield Park Hotel contain everything you would need in luxury lodging. Multiple restaurants with fine cuisine, bars, spa and workout facilities, business centers and in room Jacuzzis are the norm. The Holiday Inn is also a four star hotel with 100 rooms in a grade II listed building constructed in 1862.

Three star hotels are more common in the city. Most have similar amenities to the four star hotels, but are slightly less luxurious, with restaurants not quite as renowned. Still, they are very comfortable places to relax or work from, and if youre in town to see the sites, you wont want to eat in the hotel anyway. Plenty of the trendiest pubs and restaurants are within a few minutes of these hotels so you may want to stay at the Novotel Sheffield for example. In the heart of the city centre, and close to the train station, shops, nightclubs, and theatres, these hotels will save you a little money that can be better spent eating and drinking. The Hotel Bristol or Grosvenor House Hotel are other good three star hotels in the area. The Cutlers Hotel is a two star hotel in the commercial center of the city. Theatres and shops are located nearby, and the bar and restaurant are quite comfortable.

The Leopold Hotel will be providing four star stays with a target opening date of May 1, 2007. The 50,000 square foot former boys school is undergoing the transformation to a boutique hotel in a Grade I listed building. The Leopold will not be accepting stag, hen, or same sex groups without prior arrangement. They do however claim to be gay friendly like many of the other hotels in the area. Other four star hotels around Sheffield are Hellaby Hall Hotel, Tankersley Manor, and the Sheffield Marriott.

If you are looking for something a little out of the ordinary, Houseboat Hotels has two floating apartments where you can stay for not much more than a hotel. The forty foot long Ruby, and the fifty foot long Lily-May are available for holiday or business travel. The owners have worked out a deal with the Hilton Hotel so their guests can use the health club and swimming pool. Special Occasion Stays cost a little more, but include Chilled Spanish Champagne, Hand Made Chocolates, fresh flowers, Port Aperitif and breakfast. The Houseboat Hotels Web site is flooded with rave reviews from people who were just thrilled to stay somewhere different.

If youre looking for something away from the city centre, The Aston Hall Hotel sits in 55 acres a minute from the M1 motorway, but has the look and feel of being in the country. The hotel is quite popular for weddings and conferences and banqueting facilities are available for between 10 and 320 people. They also do parties and corporate events. The Fountain Inn & Rooms near Penistone are also a back to nature destination. It is close to the Peak District National Park, and is outfitted luxuriously with four poster beds in the deluxe rooms. Two of the rooms are suites with the largest appointed with newly weds in mind. The staff likes to interact with the guests and the quiz night at 9pm on Sunday offers a first prize of a free nights stay. Other prizes include free drink vouchers. Other events are mystery nights, race nights, casino nights, and tribute nights.

If you want to really get back to nature, areas of the Peak District National Park have holiday cottages and bed and breakfasts. They will soon have their own unusual lodging as a barn conversion called Hall Farm Mews will be set to open in December 2006. The owners have converted a barn into luxury lodging for up to 10 guests in the three bed and three bath accommodation. Other Bunk Barns are available, without as much luxury, such as Bushey Heath in Derbyshire. Here you can choose your comfort level and price, from the bunk house to a campsite. The farm sells fresh free range eggs, and a few other products for your convenience.

The area in and around Sheffield is full of places to see and things to do if you do your homework you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for in lodging, food, drink, and entertainment venues.

Article by Susan Ashby of Sheffield Singles. To read more articles like this or for dating in Sheffield visit http://www.sheffield-singles.co.uk

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A Great Shore Excursion Swimming With the Stingrays!

2009-03-23T01:58:00.001-07:00

A Great Shore Excursion - Swimming With the Stingrays!
By Sherry Otto

The next time you go on a cruise to the Caribbean, a great shore excursion to take is one where you swim with the stingrays! Our boat took us out into the ocean about 45 minutes off the coast of Grand Cayman Island. Right out in the middle of the ocean is a shallow spot where the stingrays gather. We pulled into a spot among the ring of boats that already circled the stingrays playground, got into our snorkeling gear, got off the boat and away we went to swim with the stingrays.

When my friend Tom first told me he wanted to swim with the stingrays I was a little apprehensive because I didnt know what to expect. I imagined the floor of the ocean carpeted with them and I didnt know where I was going to step. My apprehension only increased when we were briefed on the boat about what our behavior should be like toward the stingrays, and were told not to step on their tails or we would get stung! I got off the boat a nervous wreck!

Once we were in the water my nervousness turned to delight as we watched the graceful creatures glide through the water! There were plenty of stingrays to see, but I didnt have to worry at all about where I was going to step since they didnt blanket the entire ocean floor in reality like they did in my imagination. They swam right past us; close enough so that we could reach out and touch them as they glided by.

The stingrays felt like wet mushrooms! It was such fun to gently chase them through the water to see how close to them you could get! Our guide caught a stingray and brought it up out of the water for us to see while he gave us some information about it. Then he let us take a picture with the stingray before he let it go in the water.

If you are looking for a fun experience while you are in the Caribbean, I highly recommend swimming with the stingrays!

Sherry Otto
http://www.great-caribbean-vacations.comSpecializing in fun Caribbean vacations and Caribbean travel! Also offering travel tips, hot spots, and information about romantic vacations, beach vacations, sailing vacations, golf vacations, shopping vacations, and Caribbean cruises.

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The Island of Beautiful Waters

2009-03-22T02:02:00.001-07:00

The Island of Beautiful Waters
By Linda Thompkins

Guadeloupe, known as the island of beautiful waters, has the most unique shape of any island in the Caribbean chain. The butterfly shape evolved from the geographical movement of two separate islands, which pushed them together, with only a narrow river dividing them. Instead of one island, they could be considered as two since there are quite different.

Located in the French West Indies, Guadeloupe has three sets of offshore islands, which offers visitors an opportunity to island hop. Aside from the opportunity to visit several islands for the price on one, Guadeloupe offers first class beach resorts, some of the Caribbean's best outdoor markets, French and Creole cuisine, rain forests, volcanos, numerous waterfalls, a variety of beaches, and a variety of exotic flowers and plants.

That's more than enough for one vacation, but more the adventurous can easily continue their travel by catamaran or ferry to the neighboring islands of French Martinique, Dominica and St. Lucia.

The culture of the island is definitely French, however most locals speak Creole and French. Overall the culture of France, Africa, West Indian and Hindu makes a fascinating mix.

The people of Guadeloupe believe strongly in their form of culture, and many would like to be independent from France. However, financial support from France provides the island with a high standard of living, so the push for independence remains more talk than action.

Basse Terre is the larger of the two, with a rugged coastline, mountainous terrain and an active volcano. The west coast rich highlands offer a panoramic view of lush rainforests, banana plantations, and a waterfall at every turn. As you enter the rainforest, your visual senses are overwhelmed by the fusion of colors, the shapes of orchids, flowering trees with baskets of exotic flowers, and the ever present dwarf palms. Odd clanking sounds ring out through the forest, and I was surprised to find the strange noise was being made by the huge Hercules beetles. I never saw them, nor did I have any desire to after hearing their metal like sound.

After leaving the rainforest I traveled to La Soufriere, an active volcano which hovers 4,800 feet, and has steam constantly spurting from its top. As I looked at my map, it appeared that the Transcoastal Highway was the best route to the volcano, however one of the locals directed me on a southern route.

As I drove around endless fields of banana, coffee and cocoa plantations, I wished I had paid the local for his advice. The guide books state that the views of the volcano are often clouded, but on this day the sky was crystal clear. Its times like this that I wished I had brought along a traveling companion to take the wheel, so I could fully take in the beauty of La Soufriere. Upon arrival I was not prepared for the rumble from this huge volcano, or the taste of sulphur in the air, or the heat from the ground. I was so uncomfortable I could not stay longer, and hurriedly took my photographs of this magnificent landmark, and then headed out for my favorite spot, the beach.

After arriving at the beach, I was not pleased with the course brown sand on this side of the island - I prefer my beach sand to be soft, and white or pink in color. After meeting several visitors on the beach, I was told that my preferred beach sand was farther east. Before leaving I took the opportunity to take a dip in the blue Caribbean water to get the sulphur smell off my body, and have some of the best Creole stuffed crabs I've ever had in my life at a small beach bar. Now, I was fully ready for my trek east.

Grande Terre, the smaller of the two island masses is on the eastern coast and considered the low lands. I was delighted to see beautiful white sand beaches, along with clear water, and pristine coral reefs. This side of the island is an oasis for tropical birds such as pelicans, egrets, doves and sandpipers. While the western coast is home to lush rainforests, the eastern coast has countless rows of sugar cane fields and mangroves.

As I drive towards Pointe-a-Pitre, the metropolitan area, I was a little taken back by the lack of Caribbean charm of the city. Aside from the French architecture, this area is more like suburban America with high rises, shopping centers and freeways.

I'd heard about the open air markets in travel literature, so I had to make a visit. Oh, such a variety of fresh vegetables and fruits to rival the best of American produce. The women vendors have brightly colored head wraps, they love to wrangle over prices, and they give the liveliest descriptions you've ever heard about their wares.

One hour later, I left loaded down with fresh French bread, butter and lots of vegetables and fruits. Whenever I get back to Guadeloupe, I will definitely visit the market, but overall the city is too commercial, very noisy and the traffic reminded me too much of the U.S., so after loading up the car, I headed out in search of the perfect white sand beach.

Heading east from Pointe-a-Pitre, there are 20 miles of the most exquisite beaches any soft, white sand beach lover could hope to find. The farther you drive from the capital city, the beaches become less crowded.

I finally settled on the small town of Gosier which has the perfect soft, white sand beaches, lots of little bars, shops and cafes, bread and breakfast inns, along with big hotels.

Gosier is on the coast, and the rises into the hills where you can view the out islands of Marie-Galante and Les Saintes. While the thought occurred to visit these islands, I instinctively knew that my short time on Guadeloupe would be spent right there in Gosier on the beach. After three wonderful days, I headed back to the beautiful island of St Lucia, where my island hopping trip had started.

Too many islands, too little time.

Linda Thompkins is a Caribbean Travel Consultant, and owner of Travel 2 the Caribbean online agency. The agencies motto is Know Before You Go

Visit Travel 2 the Caribbean's site at:http://www.travel2thecaribbean.com

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You Don't Need to Be Crazy But It Helps

2009-03-22T01:49:00.001-07:00

You Don't Need to Be Crazy But It Helps
By Raymond Strachan

Life throws up some challenges, but often it is only when you are in a situation where you have no other choice, do you rise to meet the challenge. And so, it is only when yo are thrown headlong into driving on European roads do you throw away anything that resembles sanity and go with the flow. If you are not up to it, stay at home in your bedroom slippers and stay safe and sane.

I chose to meet this particular challenge and now I have almost graduated from the European school of driving? I almost have all the requirements:

I sit in the seat that passengers sit in in Australia
I overtake on double lines
I almost always ignore stop signs
I always drive over the speed limit
I park across car parking spaces but never in them
I almost never indicate when changing lanes in traffic
I push into traffic when I don't have right of way
When passing just about anything, I always just miss them, especially babies in prams and little old ladies with walking sticks.
I drive down one way streets
I drive down a street just on the speed limit, the street being wide enough to take a Fiat Panda with the side mirrors folded in and I am in a Renault Megane and manage to stop in the case of an unsuspecting householder who happens to leave the house via the front door
I cross busy intersections and as I go just miss, in order
- A little old lady with a walking stick crossing 5 meters away from a pedestrian crossing
- A Fiat panda stopped in the middle of the intersection while the driver, out of the passenger side window, talks to a man who has a barking dog on an extendable leash
- Another motorist taking a short cut across the intersection on the wrong side of the road
- A police car parked 2 meters away from the kerb
- A 17th century arch which was built to ensure easy movement of two way traffic - on donkeys.
- (did not see the baby in a pram.)

Now whilst this may seem impressive, I have still some of the most crucial skills yet to master. They are skills adopted from the days of gladiatorial contests in the Colosseum and refined over time to suit modern day Europe, the time of European unification. The passing of these skills are akin to initiation ceremonies where young inexperienced tyros are put through the mill, sometimes to the point of death, just to prove they can cut it in the real world.

The skills I have yet to master are:

Overtaking on bends
Overtaking on bends on mountainous roads
Overtaking on bends on mountainous roads with cars coming in the other direction
Overtaking on bends on mountainous roads with trucks coming in the other direction
Overtaking on bends on mountainous roads with trucks coming in the other direction whilst the trucks are passing other trucks.
Doing all of the above (including the first list) whilst talking on a mobile phone and lighting a cigarette simultaneously
Oh yes, just in case you did not realise - the one way street the wrong way - of course.
Doing all of the above without attracting the attention of the Cabinieri or the undertakers.

At least in Old Europe you do all of this in a nearly new car, with climate control air con and an over riding traffic update service which will cut in on your easy listening greatest hits of the seventies, eighties and nineties or your favourite cd by Jack Johnson or Cold Play. Cruise control is absolutely obsolete because you are overtaking and braking every 30 seconds or so. I am sure they are working on an I want to overtake NOW! mode to make it usable again..

In Turkey or some of the old eastern bloc countries you are more likely to be doing exactly the same in some rust bucket with brakes that barely work, a cracked windscreen and a couple of springs coming out of the seating. The one saving grace is that some enterprising mechanic will have got twice the performance out of the car than what it originally had. Especially if it's a taxi. But then they will have disconnected the meter to make sure that performance is not impeded.

Now, having reached a reasonable level of expertise, I have only five or six days to get the necessary skills and I think I can do it . There is just one problem area which I have not mentioned so far which I, like most Australians, will struggle with. It is the ability to be able to let other drivers do all the things that I have been talking about, to you, as often as you do it to them and do it most of the time with grace and humour, or at least tolerance. It's going to be tough.

See you on the roads in Australia!

Raymond Strachan loves life and tries to give it 110% at least 91% of the time. A quick look at the calculator will comfirm a 100% total. He has an off centre view on just about anything as can be seen in his travel blog, http://www.booknblog.com.

View the original blog plus pics of his experience here.

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25 Lanzarote Attractions Teguise Golf

2009-02-27T06:49:00.001-08:00

25 Lanzarote Attractions - Teguise Golf
By John Plumb

Before telling you about my particular day out at Teguise Golf, the more avid golfers amongst you will probably want to know what views they can expect to see and the technical stuff that goes with playing golf. For me it was simply a great opportunity to spend a morning with a former work colleague (Colin) and his son (David) as they were staying in a neighbouring villa on La Goleta, part of the wider Faro Park Development.

The course runs along the side of an old volcano (no surprise there given Lanzarotes landscape) and has inspirational views of volcanic lava, cacti and over includes over 3,000 palm trees and has superb views of the Atlantic Ocean throughout. A Golf course such as this one, is quite simply, in my opinion, nature at its best. Csar Manrique, the man who taught the people of Lanzarote to care for their natural habitat has clearly left his influence everywhere. If you are a Golf anorak, you might also want to read the next paragraph of technical data ? If youre not, simply skip over it.

The course measures 6041m (White) ; 5582m (Yellow) ; 5289m (Blue) ; and 4938m (Red). Generally, visitors play off the blue tees. The Slope Rating of the course is 127 (White) ; 127 (Yellow) ; 130 (Blue) ; and 124 (Red)

We played off Blue Tees. The course measures 5289 Metres (5791 Yards for the non converts) and is a Par 72 course.

Ive since found out that the course was designed by British landscape architect John Harris and built in 1978. It is a truly a fantastic course, not only because of its design but also thanks to the excellent condition in which it is kept all year round and at Easter (April 2006), it was in superb condition. Given its location, it benefits from a warm and pleasant climate all year round, tempered only by sea breezes from the islands almost constant trade winds. The course is designed to be smooth yet varied. It has more than your average number of doglegs, designed to test your ability (or lack of it) and allows you to bring all your clubs into play. It will test everyone from scratch players to those of us with more modest ability.

Address : Avenida del Golf, s/n. 35509 Costa Teguise (Lanzarote).
Telephone : (00 34) 928 59 05 12
Fax : (00 34) 928 59 23 37
Email info@lanzarote-golf.com
Webiste :www.lanzarote-golf.com

The Following services can be found at the Club - Club hire, trolleys, buggies, driving range, pro-shop and club storage. There are separate male and female changing rooms and you can hire lockers. There is a Bar and Restaurant. The restaurant offers a varied menu, based on Mediterranean cuisine. The prices vary according to season. In the Summer months (1st June to 30th September) it costs 53 Euros (for 18 Holes) and 36 Euros (for 9 Holes after 4pm). In the Winter (we played in Winter and it was scorching !), it costs 65 Euros (18 Holes) and 52 Euros (9 Holes after 3pm). The Course has discount agreements with most of the hotels on the island, so check at your hotel, or check out a nearby hotel if youre in private accommodation as you can often get a better deal than this by doing so.

And so, to our day out. We planned to set off at 7am from our home in Playa Blanca (the idea being not to spoil the day for others and Brownie Points for everyone !.

There was to be four of playing, but that quickly became three when Gary (The Rainman) decided he was on holiday and was not coming to Golf at 7am (given that he left the British Open on Faro Park at midnight the night before (to prepare for golf), I was very surprised to get the Dear John text first thing in the morning. Garys nickname is a long story, but basically when its cold he wants it hot and when its hot he prays for rain (and usually gets it, so Im not that keen on going on holiday with him !)The three of us (Colin, a work colleague, his son David and yours truly) set off around 7:30am and we drove along the LZ-2 and then headed towards San Bartholme and then into Costa Teguise (avoiding Arrecife !)

When we arrived we were told it was members day (Saturday !) and that they had no tee times for 3 hours. A quick bit of lateral thinking later, we asked if we could play 10-18 and then get a Tee time for 1-9 which they agreed to (something youd almost expect them to suggest in the UK, so ask if you need to).

We decided wed have a friendly game of singles (if there is such a thing) - Loser buys the beers at the 19th hole. We played stableford, off full handicaps (youll need them). To cut along story short (ish), Colin was flying, I was struggling to even stay in touch and David, well David was having a bad day (its just as well he hired his clubs !). Colin was five points in front with five to play before he decided to show us his impression of Devon Loch (hes the horse that collapsed of exhaustion 50 yards from the finishing line in the 1956 Grand National when leading by 20 lengths !) Going up the 18th Colin was one behind (but I did not rub it in, honest) !

Colin tells me his wife Jackie really enjoyed her first trip to the island and that they may return. Im sure if we ever go into combat again, David will have been the range beforehand to shake off the cobwebs and Colin will make sure that he does not sprint when its a marathon.

Me, well I had my day !

John Plumb, frequent visitor to Lanzarote, a place that is now my 'home from home' having taken the plunge into villa ownership on the island - See http://www.villa-rochelle.co.uk.John is also the administrator of the Lanzarote Villa Owners Club @ http://www.lanzvillaowners.com.

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24 Hours in Fukuoka City Travel Journal

2009-01-12T23:53:00.001-08:00

24 Hours in Fukuoka City - Travel Journal
By Anndrea Law

I visited a good friend, Keiko, in Fukuoka recently. It was my first long vacation since I started working.

Tenjin StationUpon arriving at Fukuoka City, we placed my luggage in a locker at Tenjin train station, and headed to a traditional garden called Yusentei. There, we had the view of the Japanese garden to ourselves while enjoying matcha (green tea). The path in the garden led you right up to the edge of the water, and was ornamented with a small waterfall. The name of the vila is indeed apt: friendship-fountain-restplace.

Yusentei Japanese Villa

After Yusentei, we walked to the city's popular public park with a big lake. There was another park that Keiko wanted to show me, but we could not find the place. So we decided to have lunch and stumbled into a street with a character that reminded me of my place in Barcelona's Sierra district: safe, upper class and good food.

Lunch at El Bacharro

As if in reminiscence of my memory, we settled for a restaurant that serves food from Valencia called El Bacharro. I had vegetable with cheese and anchovies 'fondue', a popular dish of the house. The place was small but everything was carefully placed. We were particularly intrigued by the carefully camouflaged toilet entrance, which was no more than a flat wooden plank that ran across the concrete wall.

Western Food in Japan

According to Keiko, western cuisine is expensive in Japan, as Japanese food would be in most other cities. So during my stay, I was reated to western delicacies a la Japanese style a few times, e.g. the cheesecake that Keiko's parents bought from their weekend trip to an onsen (hot spring), and citrus muffins at a flower garden.

Court House

After lunch, we visited the courthouse, where Keiko frequented when she was still an working as a legal assistant. She tried hard to find a hearing that I would attend, but there was none that was not already in session or has ended. Still, it was interesting to see how open the courthouse is to the public. Anyone could walk in and sit into a hearing and the place resembled more of a hospital than a courthouse.

Cultural District

From the courthouse, we headed to a cultural district lined with museums, shops and temples. It was interesting to see the traditional sweets that Keiko gave me as a gift when she visited my home last summer.

We played with the traditional toys. There was one called Pabo, or something that mimicked the sound it made. It was a magical wooden book that clapped continuously once you set it in motion. The toy still rings vividly as I think about it now. Perhaps I should have bought one like Keiko said. But then we agreed that she would buy it for my first-born.

The porcelain artiste was in the musuem today. He was affable and chatty. We asked him to recommend a place to visit. He checked the time and replied that there was a Buddhist temple nearby that was still open for another hour. There, we could go through a test to see if we would go to heaven.

Buddhist Temple

The test was a journey into a dark passage way behind the alter of a big Buddha carved out of cypress. If you groped along the walls and touched a metal ring, then you are going to heaven. Silly as it may sound, I felt a real sense of cleansing after the test. For in the pitch blackness, ironically, it was as if someone shone a bright light into my soul. There was no way I could hide from my deepest conscience. (Of course, if you are wondering, Keiko and I are going to heaven.)

Canal City

We headed next to the glittering material world of Canal City, a popular mall with canals not unlike the Venice wannabes in Las Vegas. Watching the sunset unfold on the panoramic window of the cafe, Sweet Museum, we knew it was time to go home.

The author is an avid traveller and amateur photographer.To view the above article with accompanying photographs and to see more photo-journals, please visit http://viewmesomefreejournals.blogspot.com

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Adventure Camping and Horse Back Riding

2009-01-12T23:34:00.001-08:00

Adventure - Camping and Horse Back Riding
By Linda Meckler

When my children were young my husband and I purchased a membership in a real live cattle ranch in the mountains which had been re-created into a camp ground.

When my husband and I first visited the ranch we both fell in love with it for different reasons. I felt this was a wonderful place for our family to be together in a safe, outdoor camping atmosphere. My husband fell in love with the horses that were housed in the barn.

Of course before we could go camping we must have the correct camping equipment. We needed to purchase, two tents, four sleeping bags and various other camping gear.

On our ranch there were three ways to camp. You could camp in a tent, or bunkhouse with eighteen rooms and two bathrooms with a complete kitchen, or if you owned a motor home you could leave it on the ranch.

We loaded up our car for the first time, we were all excited about our first trip to adventure. My husband and kids could not think of anything but horse back riding and fishing.

The ranch is vast and extends in every area. It consisted of a large playground for the kids, a pool, and tennis court. There were three man made lakes great for fishing. A few years later they added a three hole golf course.

I was raised in the city and had never ridden a horse. My kids had never ridden a horse either and they couldnt wait to hop on and take off.

After our tents were set up and we had eaten it was pitch black. I had never been outside in the mountains at night and the feeling was eerie. I was sitting down resting when my husband said, I want to show you something.

We walked out into an open field and suddenly I was surrounded by five huge horses that towered over me. I really could not see the horses but could feel their presence. I was over come with fear. After all I had never been near a horse before let alone five in the pitch black in the middle of the open field in the mountains.

He said, Open your hand. I did and he placed some small pieces of carrots in my open palm. He instructed me to keep my hand open and the horses would eat the carrots right out of my hand. It was totally amazing. I even was able to pet them before we turned and walked very carefully out of the open field.

The next morning our family of four was the first to the barn to sign up for horse back riding. My husband jumped right up on the horse he was assigned. My son managed to mount his horse. My daughter managed to mount her horse also but I had to use the mounting stairs.

We were riding along (not to fast) I was really beginning to enjoy my first horse back ride. Suddenly, my horse changed gait and picked up speed. Totally surprised, I lost my balance and the next moment I was hanging from the horse with my head almost hitting the dirt only attached by one stirrup. I yelled, HELP, loud and clear and my husband came to my rescue.

That first camping trip will always stand out in my memory and I hope my kids remember it also.

We continued to camp out on weekends and holidays for many years. These are the memories that cement family relationships.

I hope you enjoyed my article. Please feel free to check out my other articles. I love to hear from you.

Linda has wonderful memories of those wonderful years. Currently she is the author of Ghost Kids Trilogy, three books in one book. CHRISTY 12, AND HER BROTHER BRAD, 16 MOVE INTO AN OLD HOUSE ON TOP OF A MOUNTAIN AND MEET TWO GHOST KIDS. Meet a Magical Blue Vase. Join Christy and Brad on a Pirates' Treasure Hunt. ADVENTURE/MYSTERY Love, Family Values and Charity burst off the pages.

Visit my website at http://www.lmeckler.com my email lmecky@tns.net. Order my book at http://www.amazon.com or http://www.buybooksontheweb.com With an order of 5 books = 40% discount. An order of 20 books free shipping and handling. ISBN 0-7414-2273-5.

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You Have To Love The Location Say These Owners Of Orlando Florida Villas

2009-01-12T23:32:00.001-08:00

You Have To Love The Location, Say These Owners Of Orlando Florida Villas
By David Leonhardt

It has been said that in real estate there are three things that count the most: location, location and location. I recently discovered how powerful this concept can be.

Not long ago, I wrote an article about owning a vacation rental and what to consider before making the plunge ( http://www.seo-writer.net/clients/villa-ownership.html ). Like every decision, there are pros and cons, and it also depends on an individual's temperament, comfort with risk and many other factors.

I asked a few dozen villa owners who were listed at an Orlando Florida villas rental listing site at http://www.lastminutevillas.net why they had chosen villa ownership and what cautions or advice they would offer somebody considering a Florida vacation rental.

What struck me, however, was how most of the vacation rental owners I interviewed offered more comments on why they chose Florida as a location, than why they chose to be a villa owner.

In other words, the location more than the occupation inspired villa ownership, and that location is Orlando, Florida. Considering the battering Florida had recently taken by one hurricane after another, this struck me as kind of odd. So I picked up the phone and called Stewart Granville, owner of the listing site.

It's late Fall and I'm sitting out here in my shorts. Do I need another reason? he asked. How are you doing up there?

Uh...let me just go get a sweater, was all I could respond.

To give you some idea of how important it for a vacation rental property owner to fall in love with the location, here are just two samples of what some villa owners told me:

When we are driving back to the airport in Florida we never want to leave, says Michelle Prince, owner of Secret Key Villa in Kissimmee, Florida ( http://www.lastminutevillas.net/villa/166/ ), adding It was something we have always wanted to do since taking a Christmas break in Florida every year.

I believe that to feel that you wish to buy property in Florida you must think further than 'Profit', says Dave Gordon, owner of Lindisfarne Villa in Orlando ( http://www.lastminutevillas.net/villa/89/ ). I sincerely believe that most foreign villa owners have the 'feel good' factor themselves and buy because they want to return time and againif they make a profitwhat the heck!

Of course, no business venture should be run on the off-chance of making a profit, but every business venture should be a labour of love, and few require as much love as the tender nurturing of vacation rental homes.

About The Author

David Leonhardt is a freelance writer

http://www.seo-writer.net/freelance/writer.html

Info@thehappyguy.com

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http://EzineArticles.com/?You-Have-To-Love-The-Location,-Say-These-Owners-Of-Orlando-Florida-Villas&id=31791

23 Lanzarote Attractions Rancho Texas Western Theme Park

2009-01-12T20:03:00.001-08:00

23 Lanzarote Attractions - Rancho Texas, Western Theme Park
By John Plumb

Rancho Texas is located on the outskirts of Puerto del Carmen and on one of our many trips recently, we decided to spend a day out their with the children. Rancho Texas features amongst its attractions, an Indian amphitheatre where we witnessed a stunning display in falconry, a Nature Park where our children watched and even played with some of the animals, a Goldmine Where the big water-wheel runs water to gold-bearing sands and where the children can try to find hidden treasure and an Indian Village where they took a ride in an Indian canoes and visited the Tepees.

If youre looking for somewhere for the adults, then why return when they host one of the now legendary Rancho Texas Country and Western Nights.

We started our visit in the Nature Park, host to a wide variety of Animals and Birds. This area includes The Opera- A round enclosure with a great variety of singing birds where you can experience amazing sounds, The Promenade of colour with its sensational variety of birds and colours, Liliput Farm, where the children held the worlds smallest farm animals and saw much larger ones in the form of Turtles, Iguanas, Armadillos and Prairie dogs.

Before we could finish, we were attracted to crowd gathering in the Indian Amphitheatre (one of three live shows we would witness on the day). Once we settled down, the guide entertained us with a fantastic falconry demonstration, part of which involves the falcons flapping people on the head with thweir huge wings as they swoop from high gantries to the central stage.

After this, we took the children to the Indian Village to calm them down a bit. Our youngest (4 at the time) played in the Tepees, paddled a Canoes and found Treasure having followed the water from the big water-wheel to the gold-bearing sands. Our eldest (9 at the time) thought it was too young for him but agreed to look after his brother and clearly enjoyed himself, although he denied it at the time.

Next we were attracted to the restaurant area as we were informed that a second show would start in 15 minutes time. Like everyone else, we decided this would be a good time to have something to eat and drink and were surprised to see our Falconry expert helping out behind the food counter (we assumed he had washed his hands !). This would not be our last meeting, as he hosted the Parrot show whilst we had lunch. Another good show and some great pictures for the family.Our two boys wanted to let off some steam, so we let them play for a short while in the adventure play area, before going back to complete out tour of the animals.

Our third show of the day, was to be the best. Our expert returned (clearly multi-talented) and decided hed jump into a pit with the Alligators. He then crept up behind one of them and played with it (in case youre wondering, he has very quick reflexes). Toward the end of the show he decided to jump on the Alligator and sis finale involved holding the Alligators mouth closed between his chin and his chest some show !

The children were as amazed as we were and it just about rounded off a great day out and fantastic value at 14 Euros per adult and 9 Euros for the children (under twos are free).One of the most modern of Lanzarotes attractions, Rancho Texas, still has an element of the Manrique influence, with 60,000 m of theme park, designed with the utmost respect to the ambience and everything built with natural materials such as stones and wood.

At night the place comes alive with the Rancho Texas Country and Western Night, legendary in these parts. A party night for the whole family and the entertainments team (yes he was back), kept everyone entertained with Live Music and Line Dancing and special entertainment for the Kids. You can eat as much of the American Food, BBQ and Desserts as you like and enjoy free-flowing Beer, Sangria and Soft Drinks.Adults: 44,00 Children 2-12 years : half price Children to 2 years: free

and finally, if you want to Discover Lanzarote on horseback, Rancho Texas also has riding stables. Why not plan your day to include a trek on this wonderful island (three hour trek to the beach, for experienced riders only @ 54 or a One hour trek, no experience needed @ 21).

John Plumb, frequent visitor to Lanzarote, a place that is now my 'home from home' having taken the plunge into villa ownership on the island - See http://www.villa-rochelle.co.ukJohn is also the administrator of the Lanzarote Villa Owners Club @ http://www.lanzvillaowners.com.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?23-Lanzarote-Attractions---Rancho-Texas,-Western-Theme-Park&id=193447

Tedious Travel Preparation

2009-01-11T07:03:00.001-08:00

Tedious Travel Preparation
By Stephen Thomas

Travel preparation is often conducted as a last minute thought by many flying away for their holidays. All too often we hear stories of people who have forgotten to take their passport to the airport and end up missing their flight.

Preparation need not be a tedious task every time you take a holiday, if you come up with a plan that can be followed every time you go on a trip. If you are not careful though, this list can extend half way down your drive. In reality you only need certain essential items to make sure your trip goes ahead and a few precautions while you are away.

Lets look at the essential. Passport, money, flight ticket, accommodation booking reference and any medication you may be taking. Those few items will ensure that you are able to actually go on your trip.

Precautions you may want to consider are related to the what if scenarios. Here are a few to consider. Losing your passport, credit cards, money or drivers license can turn the best holiday into a nightmare. Some one off preparations can save you a potential big headache. Make a separate note of your credit cards, 24-hour telephone cancellation number, your passport number, travellers cheque numbers and driving license number.

Now give these details to a trusted family member or friend for safe keeping while you are away. It is much easier to get replacements if you actually know your document numbers. Now if your were to experience an unfortunate event while away, all you would need to do is give your relative or friend a call (I am guessing you know their number right) and you have access to all your details. Which would not be the case if you had them stolen from you.

So making sure you have your essentials before leaving for the airport and noting a few numbers down before you go away can take a lot of the must remember and what if stress away from you.

Creating a small list covering the points discussed is like having your comfort cushion with you at all times. You will have already prepared for the most common types of problems faced by some travellers.

About The Author.

Stephen Thomas is a website business developer with many years experience of the online travel market. The latest development project was the Airport Parking Guide ( http://www.airport-parking-guide.co.uk), where customers can access a resource area that has free travel planning software and airport guides available for download.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Tedious-Travel-Preparation&id=38805

Taking the Plunge at Niagara Falls

2009-01-11T06:39:00.001-08:00

Taking the Plunge at Niagara Falls
By Herod Jacobs

Perhaps the most well-known set of waterfalls in the world, Niagara Falls is a sight to behold. Made up of three different falls (the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls) that move over six million cubic feet of water per minute, Niagara Falls is the most powerful waterfall in North America. Exceptionally wide, incredibly beautiful, and an important source of hydroelectric power, the falls are an invaluable resource and brilliant natural wonder. However, some people see them as something else: a challenge.

Everyones heard of it, although very few people attempt it: going over Niagara Falls in a barrel. This world-famous stunt was first performed in 1829 by Sam Patch, the first famous US stunt performer. Patch simply jumped off the edge of the Horseshoe Falls to the amazement of the huge crowd. It wasnt until 1901 that a barrel would be used to go over the falls. This attempt was also the first by a woman. Annie Taylor survived her attempt with only a few bumps and scratches, and since then, fourteen others have made the attempt. Some, like Karel Soucek in 1984, survived only to face still fines. Others have not survived their attempt to defeat the powerful falls. The most recent person to leap from the falls was Kirk Jones, who leapt from the edge without a floatation device in October of 2003. While Jones did survive, many speculate that he was attempting suicide, not a stunt.

All of the attempts at going over Niagara Falls, whether in a barrel or not, have been done at the Horseshoe Falls. This is because it has fewer rocks than the other two and a faster current, which propels daredevils farther out from the rocky edge. Because of the rocks and other dangers, it is now illegal to attempt to go over the Falls in any way. This hasnt stopped people from attempting it, although those who survive find themselves facing high fines and possible arrest.

Despite the small number of people to leap from Niagara Falls and the even smaller number to survive, the stunt remains one of the most well-known and amazing feats a daredevil can attempt. To jump from the top of the majestic falls and survive proves one has courage, bravery, and the ability to defeat one of natures most spectacular sights in the world.

http://www.onlineniagara.com

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Racecourses UK Let Your Imagination RIDE!

2009-01-09T06:16:00.001-08:00

Racecourses UK Let Your Imagination RIDE!
By Mandy Chagger

I bring you thirteen of Europe's premier racecourses to offer space for conference & meetings. From South Downs to Cumbria Hills, allowing to be inspired by 3,000 acres of land, enjoying the glorious views.

1)Aintree Racecourse Home of John Smith Grand Stand National, Aintree offers a variety of suites within its three grandstands, providing you the versatility to host a wide range of events, It has expansive exhibition space, exclusive conferences suites with panoramic views of the racecourse, over 30 glass fronted syndicate areas with natural daylight. Aintree is located on the A59, just 1 mile from the M57 and M58.

2)Carlisle Racecourse the border of the city of Carlisle has a history of horse racing spanning five centuries, so naturally Carlisle Racecourse is at the heart of civic pride. The legendary Red Rum romped home first here in every year that he won the Grand National. The Grandstand is the ideal venue for meetings, seminars, and exhibitions product. Having 10 function rooms available over three floors including an exhibition hall, seven syndicate rooms, only 2 miles from the centre of Carlisle, is accessed from Junction 42 of the M6.

3)Cheltenham Racecourse The Regency town of Cheltenham is set in the stunning beauty of the Cotswold with the racecourse at its heart. Hosts a quarter a quarter of a million visitors. The rooms can accommodate anything from an intimate meeting in the Grandstand to a conference for up to 2250 people, Centrally located in the heart of England within a few miles of junction 9-11a of the M5 and easily accessed from the A40.

4)Epsom Downs Racecourse Has hosted The Derby, Europe's most famous flat race, since 1780. Epsom Downs also hosts over 450 other events each year running from conferences to launches. Situated in the heart of Epsom Downs, the venue is easy access from London only half an hour from Gatwick,

5)Haydock Park Racecourse Housed within 127 acres of beautiful parkland, Haydock Park Racecourse enjoys the best of both worlds a lush green setting and a central Northwest location halfway between Liverpool and Manchester , offers 6 large rooms with capacity for upto 500 guests One mile from junction 23 of the M6 or A580.

6)Huntingdon Racecourse Voted Best Small Racecourse in the South Midlands and East Anglia by the Racegoers Club, The Racecourse is an intimate racing venue. The course is less than 5 minutes from the pretty market, the conference accommodation in the Goodliff Stand includes six syndicate rooms, each with private balcony. Racecourse is centrally located just half a mile from the A1 (M) link road on the A14.

7)Kempton Park Racecourse Recently transformed into Europe's premier floodlit racecourse, offers 50 racing fixtures, which can be enjoyed after an off-site meeting or client conference. Its famous Boxing Day racing has featured champions like Arkle, Best Mate and desert Orchid. Only 35 minutes from London the six conference suites can cater for theatre or boardroom, Kempton Park is on the A308, one mile from junction 1 of the M3.

8)Market Rasen Racecourse is a bastion of summer jump racing and known for its informal, relaxed atmosphere, there is a range of flexible event accommodation over two floors, with larger rooms and bars, Market Rasen is 12 miles North East of Lincoln, at junction of the A46 and the A631.

9)Newmarket Racecourse Newmarket Racecourse at the heart of the most famous centre of thoroughbred horse-breeding and horseracing in the world. The conference centre at the Natwest Rowley Mile Course features 685m of marble floored exhibition area with a nine screen video wall and four large plasma screens. Just 12 miles from Cambridge and 60 miles from London.

10)Nottingham Racecourse Is just two miles from the lively and historic city of Nottingham, yet surrounded by the 280 acres of flower and lawns of Colwick Park. All suites are have ample natural daylight and view over the course. The Racecourse is on the A612, easily accessible from the M1, A1 or A46.

11)Sandown Park Racecourse is a big, bright versatile and inviting for organisers and visitors alike, The venue features over 500m of exhibition space and six distinctive suites in the Grandstand. Sandown Park is signposted from A3 and a few miles from junction 10 of the M25.

12)Warwick Racecourse- The historic market town of Warwick provides the backdrop for Warwick Racecourse. The castle with its magnificent turrets and towers is only a mile to the east of the course. The original Grandstand event rooms dating back 1808. Warwick Racecourse is just off the A429, two miles from junction 15 of the M40.

13)Wincanton Racecourse In the heart of glorious Somerset countryside, Wincanton Racecourse is thought to have played host to one of Britain's earliest steepchase races. It offers conference space to accommodate 120 and 12 smaller breakout rooms. Wincanton Racecourse is on the B3081 just off the A303 between London and the Southwest.

Free Venue Finding Service UK & Worldwide+ 44 (0)8700 490000 FREE call back serviceFree Hotel Accommodation Booking Service UK & Worldwide

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Racecourses-UK---Let-Your-Imagination-RIDE!&id=392723

Cruising the Popular Holiday Choice

2009-01-09T06:02:00.001-08:00

Cruising - the Popular Holiday Choice
By John Gibb

Cruises are currently in the middle of a big resurgence in popularity. For a few years, it seemed like cruises might have been killed off by an age of ever-faster trains and cheap flights, but something about the romance and the luxury of the experience has managed to keep them alive. For most cruisers today, the cruise is no longer about a way to travel in style from one place to another instead, its all about enjoying your time on the boat itself, living the sea life and relaxing on the ocean waves. This has led to a shift in focus, from trying to make the ship go as fast as possible to it taking weeks for it to get anywhere.

The nice thing about cruises is that your holiday starts as soon as you get on the ship: theres no sitting around in departure lounges and on planes. Most big cities have a port somewhere nearby, and the chances are that there are cruises no more than a few hours drive away from you.

So what can you do once youre on a cruise ship? Modern cruise ships are basically like big, luxurious floating hotels, and are often truly huge, big enough to include a whole towns worth of facilities. The worlds largest ship is currently Freedom of the Seas, and listing everything on board would take a long time: it includes swimming pools and a water park, shops and cafes, an ice rink, a boxing ring, and more. The second-largest, the Queen Mary II, is arguably even better equipped, with restaurants and bars, a casino, swimming pools and a planetarium among other things.

The best thing to do, though, is just sit back and relax. Because cruise ships are open at the top, its no trouble for them to set sail down towards the equator and give you some real sun to enjoy. All you need to do is wake up, get out of your room and go up on deck, and youre set.

John Gibb is the owner of cruise guidance. For more information on cruises please check out http://www.cruise-extreme3k.info

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Cruising---the-Popular-Holiday-Choice&id=239143

21 Exciting Maui Activities

2009-01-09T05:45:00.001-08:00

21 Exciting Maui Activities
By Scott Grover

There are a multitude of reasons to choose Maui for your next vacation destination. It could be to enjoy its 30 plus world-class beaches, experience its breath-taking vistas including incredible sunrises and sunsets, discover a tropical paradise, or to just relax and get away from it all. Part of Mauis lure is that it offers such a wide variety of activities, many family-oriented. Below Ive summarized 21 exciting Maui activities available to its visitors in no particular order.

1. Sunrise at Haleakala Crater. There's only one way to see the sunrise and that's at Haleakala Crater in Maui. Its an experience that is truly difficult to describe because of its stunning beauty. You begin to sense the magnitude of it when you see a photograph, but its something that you have to experience to really appreciate.

2.Biking Down Haleakala. We have seen two wonderful sunrises at Haleakala on two separate trips to Maui. Both times we drove (up and) back in our rental vehicles. Unfortunately, biking down Haleakala has never made it into our agenda. So we have now officially added it to our Maui Activities Wish List.

3.The Road to Hana. The drive on the Road to Hana is an experience of a lifetime. Along the way on this 60 mile winding trek you will see some of the worlds most beautiful rain forests, water falls, and enjoy some of the most gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean.

4.The Seven Sacred Pools (formally called Ohea Gulch). Almost everyone who takes the Road to Hana ends up at the Seven Sacred Pools. Waterfalls connect each pool, and the last pools waterfall empties into the Pacific Ocean. Legend has it that swimming in each pool (in order from one to seven) will bring the swimmer good luck.

5.Snorkeling in Maui. Change your view of the island to an underwater perspective by snorkeling in Maui. There are countless places to snorkel here with amazing views of marine life of all kinds.

6.Sugar Cane Train. If you (or your kids) love trains this inexpensive Maui activity is a must! Circling from Lahaina to Puukolii and back, a ride on the Sugar Cane Train will show you all the beauty of Maui from the coach car of an unforgettable real working historic steam engine. The conductor is more than knowledgeable. He's practically a one man show complete with ukulele and musical repertoire!

7.Maui Ocean Center. This was a great day activity to do with your kids. The Maui Ocean Center offers many hands-on activities that our kids loved. The three-acre marine park hosts more than 60 interactive exhibits, an outdoor central courtyard, two restaurants and the Maui Ocean Center Store.

8.Sightseeing on Front Street. A shoppers paradise! Quaint shops, restaurants and historical spots line Front Street in Old Lahaina. Our favorite discovery was the Bubba Gump's Shrimp Shop and Restaurant.

9.Sandcastle Contest Day. An activity the whole family can participate in is a Sandcastle Contest Day on Kaanapali Beach. Our kids have a ball building tunnels and mountains and the adults take the challenge very seriously!

10.Horseback Riding. You don't have to be a cowboy to enjoy some of the best horseback riding you'll ever experience. You're in Maui - which means you are riding in the some of the most beautiful countryside that you can imagine. Our ride took us through pineapple fields and a rainforest.

11.Parasailing. If you can handle being a human kite and enjoy the silence and peacefulness of gliding 500 feet above the ocean (except for the whisper of a light breeze), parasailing is a must-do Maui activity for you.

12.Scuba Diving. If you are looking for an experience of a lifetime and you want to experience a side of Maui many people miss, Maui Scuba Diving is the way to go. It is not uncommon, on a Maui scuba diving experience, to have water visibility around 100 feet, and it is sometimes better than 150 feet!

13.Golfing. Whether you're the casual golfer that hits the links three or four times a year or the avid golfer that never misses a weekend, you simply will not be disappointed with your morning (or afternoon) of Maui golf. There are over 180 courses in Maui to choose from -- besides the fact that you'll be playing in arguably one of the most scenic places in the world.

14.Helicopter Tours. Several companies offer a variety of Maui helicopter tours that can include viewing some or all of the following: the West Maui Mountains, the island of Molokai (just west of Maui), waterfalls and beaches of East Maui including the Seven Sacred Pools and Haleakala Crater. A bird's eye view of Maui is nothing less than spectacular.

15.ATV/Quad Tours. Not only can you hike parts of Haleakala Crater, you can also now take an ATV/quad tour of this scenic place.

16.Submarine Adventures. If you don't like to scuba dive, you don't have to miss the beauty of Maui's oceanscape and marine life when you are in a submarine with a view.

17.Jet Skiing. If you have enjoyed jet skiing anywhere else, just add Mauis unsurpassed beauty to the thrill of the ride and you start to get an idea of how fun it would be to jet ski in Maui.

18.Kayaking. This is an activity that is not only environmentally friendly but will also give you a good cardio workout.

19.Jeep Tour. Rent a jeep or other four wheel drive vehicle for an enjoyable excursion around the southern and western end of Maui. Most visitors to Maui don't take advantage of this scenic tour. You will see two of the most recent Haleakala lava flows that reached the ocean, dating back less than 500 years to 800 years old.

20.Cave Exploration. Explore some of the worlds largest lava tubes.

21.Surfing on Mauis North Shore. Surf enthusiasts from all over come here to ride some of the biggest waves in the world.

This is by no means a complete list of Maui activities, but it should give you a good idea why Maui has become our number one vacation destination.

This article was written by Scott Grover who considers himself a Maui enthusiast with three vacations to Maui over the past 9 years (1997, 2000, and 2004), and another family vacation planned there for December 2006. You can read about him and his familys Maui adventures at his website http://www.Barefoot-In-Maui.com

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http://EzineArticles.com/?21-Exciting-Maui-Activities&id=165621

The Laphroaig and Lagavulin Water Dispute on the Isle of Islay

2009-01-09T05:43:00.001-08:00

The Laphroaig and Lagavulin Water Dispute on the Isle of Islay
By Ron Steenvoorden

The name Laphroaig is Gaelic and means The beautiful hollow by the broad bay. Laphroaig is one of the oldest distilleries on Islay and this story shows that, despite whisky distilling is often romanticized, it was also a dangerous occupation.

After the Rebellion of 1745, which was actually a civil war, the clearances started and in that period three Johnston Brothers came to Islay. Their purpose was farming and they occupied different parts of Islay. Two of their sons, Donald and Alexander, started their own farms at Laphroaig around 1810 and started distilling soon afterwards. When Alexander died in 1836 Donald became the sole owner of Laphroaig. At that time the Campbells, who owned Donalds land, leased a plot to James and Andrew Gairdner who built a rival distillery next to Laphroaig. They installed two experienced Clackmann distillers, James and Andrew Stein, to take charge. Donald Johnston, owner of Laphroaig at the time, was deeply disturbed finding out that the new, Ardenistiel distillery, proposed to use the same watersource. Water that made a vital contribution to Laphroaig's unique character. Specially when Donald was about to expand his business leaving him with a too small water supply.

Donald appealed to the judiciary the probems he had with the sharing of the water supply and the fact that the expansion of his business wasnt possible without a proper watersupply

The dispute lasted almost 6 years and ended abruptly when Andrew Stein fell ill with fever and died soon afterwards. His brother James, who couldnt cope distilling alone, stopped and moved to Port Ellen. In June the following year Donald himself died in a tragic accident at the Laphroaig distillery. It was a hard life in those times....

The Ardenistiel Distillery was also known as Kildalton (1849-52) and Islay (1852). This distillery was taken over by Laphroaig in 1853.

Laphroaig became a successful whisky distillery and the neighbouring Lagavulin distillery built identical stills to try and get the same taste as Laphroaig. The Lagavulin distillery however got its water from the other side of the hill which was the reason for the different character of Lagavulin whisky and not succeeding to copy Laphroaig. It is also said that the location of the maturation houses from Laphroaig, being so close to the sea, make a difference in the taste.

I am a regular visitor of Scotland and the Isle of Islay in particular. Islay has a rich and interesing history and I publish information about Scotland and Islay on my three websites:
http://www.scotlandview.co.uk
http://www.islayinfo.com
http://blog.islayinfo.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=RonSteenvoorden
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Laphroaig-and-Lagavulin-Water-Dispute-on-the-Isle-of-Islay&id=301252

San Francisco Bay Charter's Handbook Suggested 2 Day Trip

2009-01-08T07:40:00.001-08:00

San Francisco Bay Charter's Handbook- Suggested 2 Day Trip
By Bob Diamond

Suggested 2 day trip

South Beach Harbor at Pier 40 in San Francisco is a great destination for a first overnight cruise. It's a reasonable distance from Redwood City. At about 20 miles, it's only 4 hours away even at the stately speed of 5 knots. The harbor is easy to find, easy to get in and out, and easy to maneuver in. There are facilities such as heads and showers and lots of restaurants and other shops ashore.

We suggest you plan your trip on a weekend when there is morning maximum ebb approximately between 9:00 and 10:30. This will give you a favorable current heading up to San Francisco in the morning and favorable current coming back in the afternoon the next day. If you leave Redwood City as late as the time of maximum current, you'll be arriving about the time the current goes slack. This would give you plenty of time to get to South Beach and may even give you enough time to sail past Pier 40 and the Bay Bridge to check out the North Bay, Alcatraz Island, etc. before settling in at South Beach Harbor.

Make your reservations with harbor office at (415) 495-4911. The overnight fee is $1.00 per foot. There is also a $50 key deposit, which can be done with an authorized credit card. The harbor master monitors VHF channel 16 if you need to call via marine radio.

Pac Bell Park is within walking distance and there are several restaurants in the area. Take advantage of the extra time the next day to explore the North Bay a little before heading back to Redwood City. Just allow about 4 hours of sailing time from the Bay Bridge for the trip south. It's likely you'll have the wind in your favor the whole way and if it's a normal spring or summer day there will be lots of it. What a way to finish a weekend sail!

For more information please visit our website at http://www.spinnakersailing.comFor this article in its entirety including links and photos go to: http://www.spinnakersailing.com/noframes/charters/sbcharterhandbook.htm

Bob Diamond has been head sailing instructor at Spinnaker Sailing since 1984.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?San-Francisco-Bay-Charters-Handbook--Suggested-2-Day-Trip&id=161189

You Must Get Out of Bored Room Once Every Year

2008-12-18T04:56:00.001-08:00

You Must Get Out of Bored Room Once Every Year
By Sara Adams

Attending those board meetings everyday, being a part of seminars and conferences through out the month and delivering the same routine jobs all round the year make you feel bored and exhausted. Give yourself a little space. If you are not doing so you are taking yourself away from family and above all from the original you.

One must give ample space to other activities by getting out of monotonous routine life. And traveling to new places is definitely a rejuvenating idea.

Give yourself a chance to Explore and Discover. In todays fast paced world, we often forget what we actually want in life. The jobs, businesses and all those activities are just a means to achieve our ultimate goal and that is happiness and tranquility of mind. The means should not be mistaken by end.

Your family life is getting worse everyday because of the little time you have to spend with your family. And that is one of the reasons why developed countries have more cases of divorces than in developing countries.

There are innumerable benefits of traveling like fun, adventure, the excitement of seeing a new place and learning about a new culture but the above all these advantages is the pleasure of being with your loved ones and at the same time getting time to introspect. Choose a place of your interest. If you have kids, involve them. They must not be aware of the different places. Give them a brief introduction of the places and ask where they want to be in.

Throw yourself in the world of fun and excitement. Plan a Trip for you and spend quality time with your family. There are many tour agencies that offer attractive tour and travel packages at lower rates. Estimate your budget, plan a holiday trip and move out to add new colors to your life.

Sara Adams is a contributor to WorldLeisureClub, a travel and tour agency of international reckoning with a voluminous experience in the domain.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?You-Must-Get-Out-of-Bored-Room-Once-Every-Year&id=285471

Travel Maryland Unique and Amazing Tourist Attractions of Frederick Maryland

2008-12-18T04:31:00.001-08:00

Travel -- Maryland -- Unique and Amazing Tourist Attractions of Frederick, Maryland
By Ugur Akinci

Every September, on the third week following the Labor Day holiday, the Great Frederick Fair welcomes all visitors with a program that is worthy of its name. The Fair was first held back in May 1822. How's that for some tradition? It first started as a Cattle Show and progressed to its current status as a 4-H agricultural educational fair and good old fashioned entertainment for the whole family. Local farmers compete to win the top prizes for their exhibited cattle and livestock.

If you like history and architecture you must not miss the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum in Frederick, MD. This is the oldest building in Frederick and a perfect example of the mid-18th Century German architecture (built in 1756).

Here is another attractions you might definitely want to include in your tour of Frederick, Maryland:

The fantastic Lilypons Water Gardens present one of the largest lilly ponds in the world. People from all over the world come to see this garden situated in historic Buckeystown, just outside south of Frederick. Founded in 1917, this is really the place to be if you'd like to rest your tired eyes with the gorgeous spectacle of all kinds of delicate lilies. Koi & Wine Festival, Ed Sander Memorial Bike Ride, and Family Festival at the Farm (in October) are just some of the events held at this unique tourist spot (http://www.lilypons.com/).

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Ugur Akinci, Ph.D. is a Creative Copywriter, Editor, an experienced and award-winning Senior Technical Communicator specializing in fundraising packages, direct sales copy, web content, press releases, movie reviews and hi-tech documentation. He has worked as a Technical Writer for Fortune 100 corporations since 1999.

You are most welcomed to visit his COPYWRITING WEB SITE http://www.writer111.com for more information on his multidisciplinary background, writing career, and client testimonials.

He is the editor of PRIVATE TUTOR FOR SAT MATH SUCCESS web site http://www.privatetutor.us

In addition to being an Ezine Articles Expert Author, he is also a Senior Member of the Society for Technical Communication (STC), Member of Bethesda / Chevy Chase Chamber of Commerce of Maryland, and a Member of the American Writers and Artists Institute (AWAI).

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Travel----Maryland----Unique-and-Amazing-Tourist-Attractions-of-Frederick,-Maryland&id=280152

Tips For Choosing The Best Cruise Vacations

2008-12-15T07:02:00.001-08:00

Tips For Choosing The Best Cruise Vacations
By Paolo Basauri

How would you like your next cruise vacations to be? The single most important part when looking for the best cruise vacations is planning. And planning begins with choosing not only the right destinations but also the right cruise line.

It all depends on what your preferences are (weather, duration, comfort, etc) That picture may look nice on the brochure, but can you really stand the Caribbean Sun? You may also check in what type of cruise youre preparing to embark. There are many types of cruises available: family cruises, Christian cruises, all inclusive cruises, Christmas cruises, golf cruises, single cruises, luxury cruises and more, each one with their own particularities and activities within the cruise

As you see choosing the best cruise vacations is not that easy because then you have to pick the cruise line, and there is some heavy competition, among the cruise lines are Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Holland America plus a lot more. But dont despair, a good travel agent will definitely help you tailor the best cruise vacations you can have.

Here are some tips you should take in consideration when planning for the best cruise vacations:

Keep in mind your lifestyle. Does the cruise activities and fellow travellers feel right for you? Thinking about this will help avoid feeling uncomfortable during your trip. Some cruises even require you to have certain type of clothing if you want to attend their restaurants or events.

Plan ahead how the weather is going to be. Nothing is more frustrating that vacations going bad because of the weather, if you cant stand too much sun you should think twice going on a Caribbean Cruise.

Consider the itinerary. The pace of the itinerary is also important, some cruises spend more time at sea than others.

Be on the lookout for unnecessary charges.

Get all the help you need from your travel agent. Ask all the questions you have. Trust me, it is better to find out about some things before taking the cruise.

Final tip, just have fun! This should be the top priority on a vacation. If you feel you will spend more time in your vacations worried, take another cruise.

Paolo Basauri, is an expert author who writes for Best Cruise VacationsA site specialized in cruise travel all over the world.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-For-Choosing-The-Best-Cruise-Vacations&id=237135

Mexican Waves

2008-12-14T05:04:00.001-08:00

Mexican Waves
By Sumit Sharma

Temples and cathedrals along with fully equipped beaches are attractions worth looking forward to on a Mexico tour. Lively and colorful is how one will describe the tourist attractions of Mexico.

Mexico City, the capital city is replete with many green spaces and quiet back streets which lend a special charm and atmosphere to the attractions. Next only to the Red Square in Moscow in size, is the Zocalo in the center of the Historic Center. Tourists can visit this place any evening to witness the Mexican army take down the giant Mexican flag flying in the middle of the square with grand ceremony. To the north of the square is another attraction, the Catedral Metropolitana which exhibits a surplus of architectural styles. A tour of the cathedral prominently figures the Kings Chapel and its altar. If you move a little east of the cathedral, the excavated site of the Aztec Templo Mayor (Great Temple) is an attraction in ruins. Keep a visit to the prettiest colonial villages Coyoacan and San Angel for the weekend. This is the time when you will find its attractive squares and streets come alive with an influx of students, artists, musicians and can purchase some fine good quality handicrafts and artworks.

An attraction you would not like to miss is Teotihuacn in South-central Mexico and known as the city where the Gods are born. Here, you can view the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon, the citadel with the Temple of Quetzalcoatl (the plumed serpent) and the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl (the plumed butterfly).

http://www.stayresmexico.com/mexico-tourist-attractions.html

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Mexican-Waves&id=313836

You Need a Boat Cover to Protect Your Investment

2008-12-13T06:27:00.001-08:00

You Need a Boat Cover to Protect Your Investment
By David Everett

To most people, owning a boat can be largely a matter of pride. It is often the case that buying a boat is a lifetime achievement and something that you and your family are certain to enjoy on every possible occasion. There is something about a boat that makes it a particularly wonderful place to celebrate a special occasion with that someone special. When all is said and done, owning a boat is just great.

However, in order to keep the boat in tip top condition you have to provide the proper maintenance. This is where the use of a boat cover becomes invaluable.

The main purpose of a boat cover is to protect your boat from the vagaries of the weather and dust accumulation. When left unattended and uncovered, a boat will succumb to corrosion and wear and tear caused by rain, wind and dust. You will be surprised to know that the use of a boat cover can prolong the longevity of a boat by up to 50 percent, as compared to a boat which remains uncovered.

What Type of Boat Cover is the Best for Your Boat?

There are many, many types of boat cover on the market. Which type of boat cover suits your boat the best will depend upon what type of boat you have, how long it will be left unattended for, and what type of weather your boat will be exposed to. By far the best type of boat cover would be one which allows you to cover it completely; hence it would need to have cuts that allow it to accommodate the mast, rails, etcetera. This is why many people prefer customized boat covers. They take care of each and every appliance on the boat, giving a snug fitting.

Of the many fabrics that are popular for making boat covers, the best ones come in waver polyester alternated with non-waver polyester. Canvas is also very popular for this purpose. The more rugged and strong the boat cover the better. People who leave their boat unattended for a long time would need thicker and more rugged covers than those who just leave them over the weekend, or for similar periods of time.

The boat cover you use must be totally waterproof. Today, there is hi-tech material which allows the moisture that accumulates on the boat to evaporate (and hence keep the boat dry all the time). Some covers will also protect your boat from ultraviolet rays, thereby keeping the color of the boat fresh for a longer period of time.

Before you make your decision on the boat cover which would best suit your boat, be sure to check out all the available material and the associate cost. Select the cover that will give you the best value for money taking into consideration the fit, the protection it can give and its cost. Your investment in a boat cover will serve to protect your larger investment - your boat, so choose wisely.

You can find a lot more free information concerning boat covers at our website.

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http://EzineArticles.com/?You-Need-a-Boat-Cover-to-Protect-Your-Investment&id=262801

2007 Trends in UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles)

2008-12-13T06:25:00.001-08:00

2007 Trends in UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles)
By Lance Winslow

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles or UAVs have proved themselves worth their weight in gold in the military. Today Unmanned Aerial Vehicles can be flown tele-robotically and controlled from a distance by a pilot on the ground. Some UAVs can fly completely autonomously once launched. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles make a perfect surveillance tools in the modern net centric battle space. With many high-tech electronic sensors they can pick up the enemy via infrared on a pitch-black night.

There have been instances where UAVs have fired upon enemy targets using hellfire missiles and destroy the target. There have been situations where the ground control link was lost on a tele-robotically flown UAV and the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle returned its self to the airport and landed safely. The technology advances in unmanned robotic vehicles has come a long way in the last decade and this trend will continue.

What will the future of UAVs bring? Well, we are witnessing the miniaturization of UAVs as the sensors and electronics get smaller and more robust. Currently the United States military is using Micro Air Vehicles or MAVs that are the size of a small bird. Current technology trends predict that the top universities in the United States will perfect insect size MAVs. Meanwhile The Air Force Research Laboratory has put out a roadmap calling for unmanned fighter aircraft and attack aircraft in the near future. We can also expect cargo aircraft UAVs.

With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence it appears that the fighter pilot's days are numbered and soon human pilots will no longer rule the skies. You can also expect transfer technologies to be handed down into many commercial applications. I hope you will enjoy this book and discussion of all these topics and more, as we look at the future of UAVs for both the military and private sector.

I appreciate your minds bandwidth on this topic, as UAVs are not only here to stay, but will be a big part of future aviation history. And you need to be thinking here. Perhaps this article is of interest to propel thought in 2007?

Lance Winslow - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance in the Online Think Tank and solve the problems of the World; www.WorldThinkTank.net/

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How To Plan Your Own Golf Vacation

2008-12-09T06:53:00.001-08:00

How To Plan Your Own Golf Vacation
By NamSing Then

Playing golf is one of the passionate hobbies of the upper echelons of the society. Sometimes these people take a few days off their busy schedule and visit Golf courses or villas elsewhere in the country to enjoy the pleasures of playing Golf over there. They hardly mind packing off and traveling hundreds of miles just to play Golf; because they love Golf Vacation.

There are many places in US, which offer exotic Golf vacation, the list seems to be endless. From Palm Springs in California, Austin and Barton creek in Texas, Biloxi in Mississippi, Las Vegas in Nevada, Brooksville, Dayton Beach, Orlando, Miami and a dozen more in Florida there are several others located in different States of US.

There are clubs and organizations that specialize in offering Golf package tours and vacations. They take care to provide everything right from lodging, fixing tee times and arranging car rentals. Infact, you can select from over 600 Golf courses at over 250 different resorts and hotels. All you have to do is just get an online quote after you decide.

Plan your entire trip, in four easy steps
1.Select your destination
2.Select your hotel
3.Select your golf course
4.Optionally select your car rental
You can compare the prices of different packages and choose that which suits you best.

Of course, some would love to play Golf built on seaside shores as in Vero Beach, Florida which is a most charming coastal town. Here, Grand Harbor is a private, gated community golf course offering a wide variety of world-class amenities.

Its not only professionals who go on golf vacations, but even beginners who want to learn the game go one vacations to America's favorite Golf Schools, offering two, three and five day packages at over 50 locations across the United States. Every year, thousands of student graduates over 20 years passing out, these students return season after season to refine their playing skills, relax and enjoy the amenities that many of these locations have to offer. These clubs have dedicated teaching staff who sincerely care to teach and improve your golf playing skills. Their relaxed teaching structure lets you work and also have fun at your own pace, whatever your age or level of ability be Beginners and intermediates are just as welcome as low handicappers. Some of these clubs even offer discounts for senior citizens (60+) and military personnel. They can offer specialized private lessons and have golf schools for women, beginners and juniors.

In general, a Golf vacation could be as exciting and thrilling as any other vacation say to the sea-shore or mountains or water falls.

NamSing Then is a regular article contributor on many topics. Be sure to visit his websites Golf Vacation Resources, Golf And Spa Vacation and Orlando Golf Vacation

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http://EzineArticles.com/?How-To-Plan-Your-Own-Golf-Vacation&id=367751

Theme Cruises There are Many Reasons to Take a Look

2008-11-27T20:10:00.001-08:00

Theme Cruises - There are Many Reasons to Take a Look
By Samuel Thompson

A theme cruise offers you an opportunity to enjoy and indulge in a special interest, passion, hobby or subject. You can find a theme cruise for every type of general interest, as well as for some very specific areas. These types of cruises also include related shore excursions.

The following list gives you some idea of the variety offered (of course, there are also sub-categories within many areas):

* Adventure travel
* Art
* Culture
* Dance
* Films
* Food
* Games (Poker is currently very popular)
* Golf
* Health and fitness
* History
* Lectures
* Murder mystery
* Music (see link about jazz cruises)
* Photography
* Religion
* Singles
* Special guest speakers
* Spiritual
* Wellness
* Wine
* and so forth

Most cruise lines offer some type of theme cruise. It is advisable to book early because many of these sailings are very popular. If you cannot find a cruise to fit your needs you can have one designed for you.

Take theme cruises to enjoy your favorite hobby, learn a new skill, increase your knowledge, or simply to do something different. These cruises are a great way to discover and learn while you travel.

You will enjoy what you love with a large group of like-minded people. There is no better way to learn and share what you know. Also, guest speakers are top notch and you get to interact directly with them.

You may want to consider organizing a group for something you, your family and friends would enjoy. By organizing such a group you could receive your cruise for free.

See the following related web pages (at cruise-vacation-advisor.com) for more information:
1.) Why You Should Sell Cruises. (Sell cruises for fun, money or both).
2.) How to Earn A Free Cruise.

Also, at the bottom of the above two pages, you will see a link to How to Start Selling Cruises. Discover how to promote cruises with a simple no-hard-sell approach.

Another suggestion is to start your own informational website based on your passion, hobby, or special interest. See for your self at cruise-vacation-advisor.com.

For information about five great JAZZ cruises, go to Theme Cruises at our website, and click the related link.

Samuel Thompson is author of http://www.Cruise-Vacation-Advisor.com/ Do you love to travel? Are you new to cruising? Avoid common mistakes and hassles. Take a look at some insightful suggestions, sensible advice and great ideas before booking your next cruise. Learn how to get into the work-from-home internet travel and cruise business (Register).

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