Relocating to Canada? Consider this

A continually expanding economy, lots of recreational space, some of the cleanest cities in the world, and low crime rates make Canada one of the best places in the world to live. Here are some things to consider if you are moving Canada for business or personal reasons.

Citizenship

Those planning to stay in Canada for the long term should immediately begin seeking out guidance on achieving citizenship. Canada has many benefits to offer its citizens, but government programs such as Universal Health Care are only available to permanent residents. Becoming a Canadian citizen requires an application, and certain official documents, and you may have to pass a test.

Don’t Believe the Weather Rumours

It is likely that if you have never spent a lot of time in Canada, you have heard stories about the country being the land of ice and snow, with freezing conditions in the winter and bleak summers. While most of the country does get cold in the winter (although coastal areas such as British Columbia’s Lower Mainland rarely get below 0 C and see little snow) the summers in many areas can be quite hot. This ranges from the dry and scorching heat of the B.C. interior (where temperatures climb to the mid-40s for several weeks in July or August) to the more humid heat of locations along the St. Lawrence River (Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa).

Get Used to Distance

Eighty percent of Canada’s population is located in the strip of land that runs from Quebec City to Windsor at the American border. The three biggest cities in the nation are located at opposite ends of the country: Montreal and Toronto in the east are within an easy day’s drive of each other, while Vancouver lies far to the west on the Pacific Ocean. Most other cities are well under 1 million people, and the farther north you go, the more empty space you can expect to find between population centres.

Social programs and Big Taxes

If you ask a Canadian what the country’s most important institutions are, nine out of ten will point to Universal Health Care and the Public Education System. These systems guarantee that all Canadian citizens have access to good health care and every child can attend school up until grade 12 without having to pay for it. Both systems are within the jurisdiction of the provinces, as the Catholic background of Quebec was a major contributor to the development of both its hospitals and its schools; therefore, it is necessary to purchase health insurance even when traveling out of the province you reside in.

Hand in hand with comprehensive social programs come high taxes in order to fund these programs. Canada has taxes on almost everything that you could imagine, from various federal and provincial gasoline taxes to taxes on alcohol, cigarettes, hotel rooms, and cross border goods. In addition, the federal government applies a 6% tax to all goods and services, and every province but Alberta has some form of provincial sales tax. Income taxes for Canadians are also quite high, with a greater share deducted the more you earn.

Like any country, Canada has points in its favour and against. As most Canadian citizens will point out, the price of taxes is fairly minor when measured up against the many benefits Canadians enjoy, not the least of which is being one of the cleanest and safest countries in the world.

2007 - Go Malta

Visitor numbers have been in decline on the Mediterranean island of Malta, but the hope is that 2007 will see new life breathed into her hotel and holidays industry.

The Malta hotels and holiday industry are major players in the island's economy, and with unemployment already high, a further drop in the number of visitors next year could have a negative impact not just in tourism but for Malta as a whole.

Throughout the year the monthly statistics for the number of tourists visiting Malta have made depressing reading for the Malta hotels, and the next twelve months will be pivotal as to whether the island can stay in the mainstream of holiday destinations, or be relegated to niche travel status.

The island was rife with rumours earlier in the year that a UK tour operator was going to withdraw the island from their 2007 brochures, and a survey in the island's biggest market showed that Malta would be more expensive for British tourists than the Canary and Balearic Islands for equivalent holidays next year.

But more recent news has brought hope to the Malta holidays market that 2007 will see an arrest in the decline of visitor numbers seen this year, with MyTravel surprising the Malta holidays market by announcing an increase in the number of winter visitors it will be taking from the UK to Malta.

But the most positive news has come from low cost carrier RyanAir, who have started flights to Malta from London and Dublin.

Between announcing the Dublin and London routes and the maiden flight to Malta, Ryanair sold 30,000 tickets. And the new competition has spurred Air Malta, the island's national airline, to make offers of its own. A successful campaign saw two tickets a minute being sold recently.

'This is all good news,' say Malta hotels and holidays guide http://www.yourmalta.com, 'Earlier in the year it looked like there was only one way that the visitor figures for Malta were going for the future, and that was in a continuing downward spiral.'

At one stage earlier in the year there were real doubts cast upon whether the Malta Government would approve the new low cost flights at all. Air Malta is a major employer and some in the tourist sector felt that too much of a protectionist attitude was being taken at the expense of a possible upswing in new visitors.

'Unfortunately,' continue YourMalta, 'The Malta Tourist Authority and The Malta government seem to to make life as difficult as possible for the island's hotel owners and those involved in the holiday industry. A privately run company like Ryanair will achieve more and bring more money on to the island than the Tourist Authority can ever dream of. And Ryanair will probably make a profit out of it while the Tourist Authority is using taxpayers money. We're just waiting for the first set of figures where tourism has risen, and for the Malta Tourist Authority to claim part or all of the credit. In reality if tourist figures do rise it's despite the Tourist Authority, and not because of it'.

Flights To Malta

Speaking on a visit to Malta recently, Ryanair's Chief Executive Michael O'Leary declared himself pleased with their new Luton route, and predicted that their Dublin route, due to start operating in February, would be even more successful. He believes that Ryanair could take some 85,000 visitors to the island in 2007.

'If Ryanair do deliver 85,000 visitors to Malta in 2007 it will stop the perpetual decline in overall tourist numbers,' say YourMalta, 'It depends of course on whether a large number will be new visitors or simply those who would have visited Malta anyway. We believe the likelihood is that a good deal of the 85,000 will be new visitors who hadn't considered a Malta holiday before. With Air Malta fighting back and having successful promotions too there is every reason to feel confident that 2007 will prove to be a good year for Malta tourism. Hopefully it will prove to be a turning point and not a delay in the downward spiral of the last few years'.

The real estate industry in Malta also produces a good deal of inward investment for the Malta economy, and increased visitor numbers often correlate to an increase in Malta property prices.

According to Tribune Properties, a UK based company who specialise in Malta property for sale, property inflation could be in double digits next year.

'Malta property buyers from overseas start as tourists, and with new tourists arriving next year in increased numbers we do expect this to have some impact on the market overall. The Malta weather is always a plus point when potential buyers are considering where to buy a holiday home. But ease of access is a critical factor, and with the new flights at reduced prices it makes spending a few long weekends on Malta as well as the traditional week and fortnight holiday a realistic possibility for more people.'

Travel guide YourMalta do offer a cautionary note, urging the Malta authorities to invest in better roads and other infrastructure.

'It's important that holidaymakers want to return to the island in future years, and not just visit once - never to look at a holiday brochure and a map of Malta with good memories and return. The Malta hotels are on a par with the rest of Europe, but if they step outside to dangerous pavements, unclean beaches and a timeshare tout around every corner ready with a high pressure sales pitch they won't return. Hopefully the Malta Tourist Authority will be doing as much as they can ensure a pleasant Malta holiday experience'.

Fireflies and Phospherence

Around midnight. Almost silent, apart from the semi-sibilant rustling of the leaves. And dark, profoundly, pitch-black, cannot see a finger one centimetre in front of own your nose, dark.

Waiting. But for what? Then, a slight whisper filters back from the front of the line. Look down! And with the total removal of light for the last few moments meaning that our eyes are as accustomed as they will ever be to the darkness, we can just about make it out. A faint luminescent glow from the leaves carpeting the forest floor.

Which our guide tells us, when the torches are eventually switched back on and we can see again, is how the true Orang Asli (the "original people") of the forest of Malaysia's Endau Rompin National Park can track and hunt wild animals through the dense tropical jungle at night without getting lost - by following the trail of light from fallen leaves that manage to retain the tiniest shard of luminescence from the long departed sunshine of the day.

Incidentally, just before being told to look down, both me and my four year old son (to whom I was clinging on VERY tightly) had actually been looking up, following the tracer patterns of the hundreds of fireflies that flitted and pirouetted in flight around our heads.

Our night trek was part of a weekend spent at Kampung Peta, in the middle of the Endau Rompin Park, situated on the border of the states of Johor and Pahang. About two and a half hours drive from Johor Bahru, the southern city at the very tip of Malaysia, the settlement, which is in the middle of the forest and high above the river that actually forms the state border, is something of a schizophrenic entity.

On one hand, we have the land belonging to the National Park itself, on which are built several reasonably appointed and maintained chalets. Just to take one step onto the land owned by the National Park means that you have "entered" the park and therefore incurs a visitor?s fee.

Then, on the other hand, about one kilometre closer to the river is the actual Orang Asli settlement itself, which could not be more different to the visitor?s area if it tried.

Take electricity, for example. The tourist chalets and the visitors centre have power when the generator is turned on from around 6pm to 8am the next day. The Orang Asli settlement has no power at any time, and with the nearest town being some 50 kilometres away, there is not much reflected light lingering in the sky either. Which does, of course, mean that you can see every single star in the sky, as well as those ubiquitous fireflies, which is a rare treat for us city dwellers.

It is possible to arrange a trip like ours by making arrangements with the National Park authorities themselves. However, one of the more resourceful members of our group had managed to establish contact with a city dwelling member of one of the Orang Asli families living by the river, and had arranged that his family would put the whole trip together for us. And what a fantastic job they did of it!

First, the food that the family served us at every meal was stunning - simple but absolutely delicious and more than plentiful. For example, on our Saturday lunchtime arrival, we were served snake head fish caught from the river, and gently broiled to perfection (remember, without electricity). Never tried snake head fish before, and I dare say that, under normal circumstances, the name may well have ensured that I would never try it, but I'm awful glad that I did.

We were shown lots of traditional methods of catching food from the forest, ranging from small wire traps for snaring birds, to cages with wire triggered drop down doors for trapping tigers. We even had a chance to test our accuracy with a traditional blow pipe, which the ten children in the group loved, of course. Incidentally, we were told that traditional "professional" Orang Asli hunters can use such a blowpipe to fire a poisoned dart a stunning 200 meters, apparently with a high degree of accuracy, which I suppose might be quite useful if you have an angry tiger 195 meters away!.

At night, the hardier souls in our group actually stayed with the family in their tiny undecorated concrete breeze block house; everyone sleeping together on the floor in one relatively small room with what seemed like hundreds of village children, some of whom I was later informed were nothing to do with the household at all, and were presumably only there to see what the foreigners did whilst they were asleep!

The more cowardly amongst us (including yours truly) opted for the chalets.

Well, I did forget to mention that the family house had no indoor plumbing either, and that the toilet was a hole in the ground some 50 meters away. Please also bear in mind that this is in the middle of the jungle at night, that the nearest civilization and medical facilities are at least 90 minutes away, and that most of the more dangerous wildlife (tigers, elephants, and wild boars) in these parts are nocturnal! There are simply some things that you do not need to do with two small children in tow, and, anyway, I'd already done one night trek, and had got the leech induced bleeding to prove it!

Next day brought a leisurely motor boat ride down the river, a trek on a jungle pathway dotted with elephant tracks (and droppings), a swim in the river, lunch, and then a far less leisurely row back up river, before a final meal and the drive home.

So, all in all, a very interesting and rewarding adventure weekend, definitely not a run of the mill overnight break, and a chance to actually meet and ?live with? some of the real indigenous people of Malaysia (albeit extremely temporarily), still existing pretty much the way that they have for decades, maybe even centuries, far removed from the demands, stresses and strains of the modern world.

Las Vegas - Outside the Casinos

Millions of people flock to Vegas for the express purpose of sitting in front of slot machines or pulling up stools to the poker tables, and yet there are so many other offerings in the city. A Las Vegas vacation does not have to center on gambling, though many people are unaware of the Vegas beyond the Strip.

First and foremost, there are the shows. Entertainment that does not require you to gamble away your hard earned cash is easy to find in Vegas, for there are multiple unique shows for your viewing pleasure. From magicians to concerts to illumination spectaculars, there are a number of programs that will amaze and delight even the most discerning viewer. But that is not the only option for the conservative traveler.

Your Las Vegas vacation could possibly include visits to the Nevada State Museum, where you can learn all about the history of this state from pre-history to the modern day. Located right in Vegas, this museum, which costs very little in the way of admission, offers a unique and thought-provoking look at the origins and development of Nevada. There are also art museums, the neon museum, and children's museums, just to name a few. Take a meander through the Atomic Testing Museum, which chronicles Nevada's place in the history of nuclear testing and bombing, or dance on into the Liberace Museum. Truly, there are many places to visit as you plan your Las Vegas vacation.

If museums are not exactly your thing, and you were hoping for a little more excitement, check out the Mario Andretti race rides, or the Richard Petty Driving Experience. These attractions are an important part of Nevada and NASCAR history, so for the racing fans, they are sure bets for entertainment and memorable experiences. Also in Vegas, you'll find the American Racing Academy, where driving courses, geared toward those individuals willing and able to spend close to a thousand dollars and several days learning all about street racing, Formula One, and so on.

Other options are still out there, like the Ethel M Chocolate Factory, Neonopolis, the Fremont Street Experience, and the Zoological-Botanical Park. There are also the Old Mormon Fort for history buffs and the Planetarium and Observatory for budding astronomers. A Las Vegas vacation can include any mix of these options, all located off the Strip but still in the heart of Las Vegas. So if you want to go but don't want to gamble away your time, don't despair, a Las Vegas vacation free from casinos awaits.

Travel to Ireland

Ireland - This idyllic isle off the coast of Britain is known for its rolling green hills, friendly faces, and rich history.

Known as the Emerald Isle, Ireland is mostly rural in nature and remains seemingly untouched by modern man outside of the city centers. The official language of the Irish Republic is Gaelic, the purest of all the Celtic languages. Gaelige is taught in most schools but is rarely spoken, being eschewed for English in most common life. No matter what your taste in life, there’s something for you to do in Ireland.

Ireland is known as a large draw for those that prefer life outdoors. Beyond its infamous green hills and beautiful mountains, Ireland offers a wide variety of outdoor adventures. Over 400 golf courses welcome everyone from the greenest amateur to the fiercest competitor. Equestrian trails dot the landscape, allowing people to experience the joy of being on a horse in addition to the magnificent beauty of the landscape. The Esker Riada route is one of the most infamous in all of cycling, and the mountains offer trails for those who yearn to do some vertical mountain biking. And angling throughout Ireland is superb, both freshwater and saltwater.

The history of Ireland is vast, and many historical sites remain today. Irish Castles dot the landscape, beautiful testaments to early building with wood and earthen materials. Blarney Castle, the original home to the infamous Blarney Stone, stands witness to the beauty of its time. Large homes of the aristocracy, like Castletown in County Kildaire, show the art of the architects of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.

Religious sites, both Pagan and Christian, can awe in both their simplicity and majesty. Pagan and Celtic stone structures stand testament to the beliefs of early Irishmen, and some even pre-date the infamous Stone Henge. The Catholic and Protestant cathedrals of modern times are large and awe-inspiring, while the abbeys and monasteries from St. Patrick’s time show the beauty of early Christianity in Ireland. Jerpoint Abbey is one of the most popular, and is believed by many to be one of the most beautiful.

For those who love food, Irish food is a treat to behold. It’s both delectable and simplistic at the same time. Irish Stew, comprised of beef, vegetables, and potatoes, can be found in almost any pub with a pint of Guinness. Butlers, the most infamous chocolates in Ireland, has opened Butlers Chocolate Cafes throughout Dublin and Cork City. These cafes showcase the finest Irish sweets and coffees, a treat for those who enjoy a bit of chocolate to start or cap off their day.

Whether you prefer to spend your time exploring the splendor of nature or the history of man, Ireland offers many treats for your senses. The smell of clover, the sight of the beautiful countryside, the silence of a quiet glen, and the taste of corned beef & cabbage followed by a Butlers chocolate await you in Ireland.

Swizerland and Italy - Travelogue

anes, trains, motorcoaches, boats, cable cars, gondolas, lake steamer, funicular, cog wheel train and ferry were our modes of transport. We were 60 singles with 124 bags who came, who saw, who conquered Switzerland & Italy. Aside from the traffic delays of high holiday season, it went without a hitch. No lost passports and no one lost. It was a whirlwind vacation but my theory has always been carpe diem per dollar, that is to squeeze in all experiences possible enroute of any journey. After all, travel is intensified living as we attempt to absorb the maximum thrills per minute. (When I compare this to my Suzy's Taste of Europe trip 11 years ago, this was easy. We then did 6 countries in 7 days, like The Amazing Race.)

In charming Lucerne, we were led on a walking tour of Old Town followed by a welcome dinner of Swiss fondue. There was a folklore show which provided us the opportunity to blow an alpine horn. At the end of the evening was a yodeling contest where the bold wailed out like dying cows into the mic. We enjoyed a real alpine adventure up to and over the 7000 ft. Mt. Pilatus which legend says is infested with dragons. From here we boarded a paddle steamer and sailed across a crystal lake to meet our motorcoach in Fluelen.

Our driver, Peter was super-human as he transported us 7 days over narrow mountain roads in our Super-Size-It double-decker bus with a luggage trailer hitched in tow! At times local farmers would peer out chalet windows in awe of such a feat. We stopped to visit the Merlot Del Ticino Winery set in cliff-side vineyards. So simple, so pure. The family owners stated we were their largest group ever. As we imbibed on 3 fine vintages, Peter spends a half hour trying to turn the coach around with help from dozen locals. Finally we arrive in Lugano. Is it Switzerland or Italy? You Google it. We unpack for 3 glorious nights at Hotel De La Paix.

If it is Tuesday, must be Italy. We set out to tour the lush Lake District which sprawls dreamlike as a watercolor painting. This is the Rio of the Old Continent. In Tremezzo we view the famous Villa Carlotta Gardens and water taxi over to elegant Bellagio. The town has fallen asleep for its 3 hour siesta. Nothing to do but manga so I amble up the cobbled streets for my third pistachio gelato of the day. A shopping stop is scheduled in Como. Some women do not even glance at the mirrored lake lined with palm trees. As if on steroids, they march forward armed with Euros, Swiss francs and a MasterCard. Their motto on this 2 hour marathon is if the shoe fits, charge it. Our day ends with a visit to Alprose Chocolate Factory. The tour is disappointing, but offers good buys on sweets.

Our evenings are totally free and we disperse in mini-groups to discover the best local cafes. Seafood is ultra fresh here but on my budget in this land of a weak dollar, I settle each night for Pizza Margarita, paper thin with slabs of buffalo mozzarella. On Wednesday, half the group defects to explore the region on their own. Some do nature trails, boating, Mt. Bre, the fishing villages and even Milan in a day. A few others lounge poolside at our hotel sunning like lizards. We are graced with perfect weather up to departure. The other half of the group joined me with our wonderful guide Isabelle. (She has an obsession with George Clooney whose villa faces Lake Como.) We begin at the Ponte Tressa market where Europeans flock for bargains, but depart early as it resembles a giant garage sale. We ferry from Lavino along with our monster bus across Lake Maggiore to Intra and then drive to Stressa. Now heres a place I would like to linger for its Mediterranean feel. From here, some visit the Borromean Islands.

Time to check out and head to Switzerland on one of the worlds most diverse rail journeys. The Bernina Express corkscrews its way up and over the Alps with a Kodak moment at every turn. We pass 3 glaciers and Lake Bianco named for its glacial milk. In 3 hours we arrive at top of the world to glitzy St. Moritz. Our hotel was upgraded to the 5 star Hotel Kempenski Grand, according to our driver the finest hotel in Switzerland. We quietly enter the chandeliered lobby in T-shirts and denim shorts as if we too are part of the rich and famous. This is as elegant as it gets. I do not want to leave my suite with its marbled tub and feathered duvet. The designer boutiques in town are closed now. We scatter on nature trails towards the lake. For dinner, some splurge at the hotels world class restaurant on fresh lamb enveloped in herbed crepes and deserts of spun sugar. Twenty of us enjoy an outdoor BBQ of organic local products. Later I take advantage of the complimentary spa with a swim and 4 treatment rooms.

I have always said that if I was forced to trade my passport with another country, I would choose Switzerland. Even the cows with their bells are happy here. It is the purest air and purest food. It is the efficiency. Like the Boy Scouts, Swiss count neatness, punctuality, cleanliness and hard work as virtues. It is the serenity in the verdant hills where one feels safe. And it is the beauty in the rugged geography of rocks, bubbling brooks, clean lakes and snow capped mountains.

The highlight for me was our morning excursion by 2 gondolas ascending to a lone restaurant 9000 ft high. Here we are greeted with a private champagne toast on a sun drenched terrace. Some of us hiked down through the Ice Palace, a grotto-like cave in sheer ice. The majesty of this mountain humbled me.

Peter must drive us to Zurich over a seemingly insurmountable mountain pass before reaching the highway. In 27 years, he is driven tour buses over 3 million kilometers and tells me he hates driving this road. We pass cows mating and villages with populations of 12. After a lunch stop in Heidiland, we arrive safely in Zurich. It is raining now as if Mother Nature mimics the sadness of our departure. I overnight here with a solid 9 hours sleep and reminisce of another journey well done.

Looking for a Job - Overseas?

Looking to travel the world, visit exotic locations? If you’d like to live overseas, then the first step is going to be taking a closer look at overseas jobs. After all, you can’t make it overseas without some hope of employment first, right?

Finding overseas jobs in your area of experience is a little different than finding jobs in your own home country. However, many of the Internet job boards also have international listings. Instead of looking under “overseas jobs” on an Internet search string, look for “international job listings.” This may yield more results, and you might have a better chance of finding what you’re looking for.

There are overseas jobs available for those considering a huge change. There are a great deal of jobs available in the teaching and government jobs categories, in fact, so consider looking here if you have some experience in these fields. The Internet makes finding overseas jobs much easier than using the telephone alone.

Instead of phoning, consider communicating through e-mails. Using the Internet, you can even send your resume overseas to potential employers. Use instant messenger services (which are free) instead of talking voice-to-voice over the phone. Conducting business through the Internet makes getting an overseas job much easier and affordable for you. Spending lots of money right before you move is never a good thing!

To get an overseas job, apply to every job that you honestly think you want or that you have some interest. Don’t be afraid to apply to any job that seems interesting to you, because it’s a lot easier to pick from several job offers than to have to take just one. So send out resumes, and have one prepared that you can send easily via e-mail. It’s also a good idea to keep a stock cover letter handy, as most employers expect to receive cover letters as well as resume from potential employees.

Sometimes, looking for overseas jobs can be time-consuming. If you’re looking for a particular city or country, finding the job you want may take even longer. But don’t give up! Keep looking, and you’ll end up finding exactly what you want. The only way to be sure you won’t get what you want is to give up on it, so keep going and keep trying until you find the opportunity you’ve been looking for. Getting an overseas job isn’t as important as finding a job you can be happy with.

Before you accept a job, find out what that job pays. Then, looking into the nearby living situation overseas. This, too, can be done using the Internet. The Internet is an international tool, and people overseas use it as much as the people in your own hometown. Find out what the cost of living is before you decide if the offered salary is acceptable to you or not. If you can’t afford to live overseas, then you might want to consider looking for another overseas job that pays a little bit more.

California Wine Country

Napa Valley is a great destination from anywhere world wide. San Francisco Airport (SFO) is just a few hours away from your holiday in wine country. Transportation can be arranged from a stretch limo, to a SUV for the adventurous.

Many travel internationally to SFO, for business southbound in Silicon Valley, the hi-tech valley with uncountable leading Hi Tech companies, so why not mix your travels, land on a Friday night, and enjoy wine country over the weekend as you catch up with the time zone change.

Why do I sound a bit thrilled with the opportunity to write this article, and share some highlights. Very simple, I grew up in California, and know these areas like the back of my hand. I work in the hi tech industry, and travel internationally to many countries quiet often.

Well, actually, I have many business associates, and true international friends, and a long time ago, I picked up a few travelers I knew very well, and did in fact what I just recommended, spent the weekend in Napa Valley, and did every highlight Im going to touch on.

Now this started back in the 1980s , but once the word got out, a jam packed weekend to be remembered, then onward to business on Monday, guess I should have changed careers, travel guide, limo driver, Spa or Resort operator, because I still to this day, have not seen it all, and enjoy every time I get the chance to visit, and show people a super adventure.

So, in a nutshell, here are some real life things to do if you ever get the chance to visit Napa Valley. Note, this is not an advertisement, but a real short cut adventure, and can save you lots of wasted time in your travels, and even save you some money.

Winery Tours
Simply there are so many, you cannot see them all in two days. I recommend, do some research online, find the ones you would enjoy visiting over the weekend, or longer if time allows. Now, caution, nowadays many do charge a fee, approx. $10 for tasting typically, so unless you are visiting smaller wineries, allow an hour plus for planning. Second caution, make it fun, but use common sense, someone needs to be a designated driver, since we are talking about wine tasting. Think this through for safety, and fun. Hire a limo, go as a group.

Ballooning The Valley
Now, I fly a lot, however I did have one Doctor friend who really wanted to do this in a bad way, and I am not really crazy about heights like many.

However, I did set it up, with very experienced people, and what a rush this adventure was. Early morning, very clear, and calm, no wind at all, so time of year for this adventure needs to be considered.

I might add, there is always a risk, but I saw everything from this adventure alone, and took the most pictures of the vineyards possible which I still have today, enlarged, and framed. So this one is a special reward different from all others.

Next to this there are flight excursions around the valley, but the Balloon, allowed a peaceful, noise free natural adventure, moving very slow, pictures were very clear. I recommend this for the real brave adventurer, you will never forget this one.

Tour Packages
I thought I would mention this again, a bit different, but to be considered. Limos, Stretch SUVs, Buses, can all be arranged in advance, whether you fly in, need a Resort to stay, and tailor your visit in any manor, can be setup in advance.

This works very well for small groups, and surprisingly wine tasting, by Limo is reasonably priced as a group. Drivers know where your destinations are. Yes, the Valley is big, you could get lost, so lots of good considerations when planning your trip.

Resorts Spas, BBs
Thought I would also touch on any overnight planning. Some of these resorts are up to 5 star, based on your budget and plans, resorts can sometimes be at a winery, with restaurants on site, which makes for a relaxing setting on a real working vineyard. Just the scent of wine, and the oak barrels alone is a great experience.

BBs are quiet common all around the valley area. Its difficult to recommend anyone specific, simply because there are so many, and I have enjoyed many different ones, so no complaints, people are very friendly and kind. I can recommend search online, pictures, package specials off season, etc. will get you started.

Travel the Valley By Train
Yes in fact they have a very old refurbished train package available. I did this once, many years ago. It all depends on your style, if you do not like driving this is an option to consider.

The train not only takes you sight seeing around the valley, but also serves gourmet meals to anyones liking. That was a treat I remember well.

I do not usually make specific recommendations, but I rated this adventure right between a 4 and 5 star level, and was really impressed how well everything went. So, in this case, go check them out, at their website address at winetrain. Great to kick back, and relax for the entire day adventure, and no traffic problems Im aware of.

Head South
Well, my home city is actually south of Napa Valley in Santa Barbara, truly a resort city on the ocean backed by mountains and island views. Santa Barbara is about a 6 hour drive from Napa Valley, but well worth it,
simply Napa Valley has its history and many vineyards, however is not the largest wine producer in California, did you know that ?

I will tell you, it is somewhere in between, which I will cover in my next article heading south to Santa Barbara.

I hope you enjoyed these highlights of Napa Valley, things to do, places to go. Sometimes there is so much information it is overwhelming, and I wanted to help sort things out for anyone planning a trip there.

Now, there are certainly many more great things and places to go, but these I have experienced, so feel free to consider my adventures in your trip, and hopefully save some time, costs, and help plan a memorable adventure.

Travel to France - Don't Miss the Eiffel

Make reference to France travel and the name Paris comes up right away. Paris is known to the rest of the world for its world renowned Eiffel tower. The tower was built between 1887 and 1889 and became today one of the most recognizable monuments in France as well as an international symbol that attracts people from all around the world to Paris. Located near the Seine river, which is considered to be the lifeline of the city of Paris, the Eiffel tower was built by a French engineer called Gustave Eiffel, which explains why the tower was given the Eiffel name.

The tower was built a century after the French revolution in order to celebrate the centenary of this important historical milestone and the ideals of the French Revolution liberty, equality and fraternity. French history indicates that the tower was inaugurated on the 31st of march 1889 and opened to the public on May, 6th of the same year. However, it is the Eiffel tower that symbolizes Paris as a tourist destination in modern times. The construction of the tower had indeed met with a stiff resistance from the intellectuals as well as the regular Frenchman during its beginnings. A number of French leaders and citizens questioned the judgment of the people who had thought of the idea of the tower in the creation period, calling it an eyesore and a misuse of public finances and wealth. Of those protesters, the world renowned writer Guy de Maupassant is thought to have eaten at one specific restaurant everyday, as he claimed this restaurant was the only restaurant in Paris that spared him the painful sight of the tower! The tower, a milestone for France travelers was the tallest structure in the world at the time of its construction and measures approximately 300 meters high and includes 3 stories. Highest structure in Paris, the Eiffel tower is the second highest structure in France.

The French authorities in charge of maintaining the tower provide a useful website that can attest to be a blessing for travelers from other countries. The website gives accurate rates for sightseeing and also provides the history of the construction of the tower. Distinct rates exist for adults and children as well as exclusive concessions that are available for the disabled.

Like the varying degree of passionate travelers of France, the rates for the elevators vary as one rises up the tower. The standard rates for adults for the first story are in the 40 euros while the 2nd floor can be assessed at a rate in the seventy euros for adults. The top level, which is a visual delight of Paris can be reached by elevator at a rate of about 100 euros. The tower is fully equipped with facilities that can help the disabled access to its height and share the beauty of the city of Paris. Lifts and turnstiles are easily available that can help people with reduced mobility access the tower. For a summary of a visit to the Eiffel tower make sure to stop at Altitude 95, the restaurant located on the first level of the Eiffel tower. Needless to say that France travel remains incomplete without touring this historical beauty. We wish you a visit that just soars with fun!

The Ultimate Mountain Camping Experience

Peaks of Mt. Kenya

Mount Kenya presents the perfect destination for adventure. It is an extinct volcano some tree and half million years old. Straddling the Equator, the mountain offers a unique mosaic of forest, moorland, rock and ice, and is crowned by the glittering twin peaks of Batian (5,199m) and Nelion (5,188m). Believed to be the sacred home of Ngai, God of the kikuyu people, Mount Kenya is Kenya’s highest mountain, a climber’s mecca, the nation’s namesake, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mt. Kenya is a popular destination locally and internationally for a holiday. Mt. Kenya lies 175km north of Nairobi and is easily accessible from Nanyuki, through the Naro Moru gate or Sirimon gate. Travelers from the Meru/Embu region can use the Chogoria gate to access Mount Kenya.

Climbing routes of Mt. Kenya

The advantage with the Nanyuki side of Mt. Kenya is that, you can sample the delights of both Mt. Kenya and the Aberdares. Nanyuki is an old colonial town with many holiday facilities that can cater for diverse budgets. For those keen on wildlife viewing, the Mt. Kenya National Park may not be the best as it is heavily forested and harder to see the animals, expect for the occasional encounter. It may therefore be wiser to visit the surrounding wildlife ranches like the Sweet Waters Game Sanctuary which is just 15km from Nanyuki town. The ranch has unique and rare animals like the grevy zebra and reticulated giraffe. It is also Kenya’s only chimpanzee sanctuary.

The game ranches and tame rhino around Mt. Kenya

Other popular attractions include the only known tame rhino in Kenya, called Morani, and this offers a unique chance to touch, hug or even kiss a black rhino. The big five can be seen here on a game drive. Another ranch where wildlife can be viewed easily is the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Isiolo. Lewa is also easily accessible from Nanyuki. It offers a diversity of unique and rare wildlife just like Sweet Waters. Lewa, a community conservation project, is popular for the annual marathon it hosts. Both ranches have accommodation – pricey though – and advance booking is recommended.

Wildlife of Mt. Kenya National Park

The giant forest hog, tress hyrax, white-tailed mongoose, elephant, black rhino, suni, black-fronted duiker, bongo, leopard, Mt. Kenya mouse shrew, hyrax, and the endemic mole rat are found in the Mt.Kenya National Park. However, you need extreme patience and luck to see these animals in the thick forest. The park’s topography requires a 4WD vehicle. Those who want to climb Mt.Kenya can drive to Sirimon gate, which is well labeled, about 16km from Nanyuki. Most of us cannot conquer the mountain within two days of our holiday, a feat better left to the professional mountain climbers. However, the non professionals among us can arrange for a half-day climbing excursion up to some designated point from where we can have a panoramic view of Laikipia and get a feel of the mountain climate.

It is relaxing experience. However, do not attempt it on your own. Let a guide show you the way and assists with carrying of luggage. This gives you a chance to join other enthusiasts and climb as a group, which makes it more thrilling. Nanyuki town has accommodation to suit every pocket – from the five-star Mt.Kenya Safari Club, to Ibis Hotel in the town centre, which offers good meals and clean rooms.

Accommodation facilities in Mt. Kenya

You might opt to stay at the Warden’s Cottage near the Naro Moru gate in Mt.Kenya National Park. The cottage was built in 1972 by former Mt. Kenya National Park warden Bill Woodley and until 1998, was home to the park’s wardens. These are two bedrooms, one with a double and a single bed and the other with two single beds. There is a bathroom with hot water bath/shower and a tastefully furnished sitting room. You could also stay at the Sirimon Banda, pleasantly situated in open grassland adjacent to the Sirimon gate. It has two semi-detached units in one attractive stone Banda. Each unit has two bedrooms, one with a double bed and the other with two single beds. Each unit also has a shower room (hot water) and WC, and a furnished sitting room with a log fireplace and doors leading to a small veranda. The house provides a caretaker, kerosene lamp, bedding, and toiletries. Both houses can be booked through the Kenya Wildlife Service or travel agent.

The all too good camping sites

For those who love camping, campsite with picnic tables, water and a pit latrine are offered at the park’s entrance gates – Naro Moru, Sirimon and Chogoria. However, you need your own firewood. Road side campsites are offered at Mackinders Camp, Shipton’s Camp, and Minto’s Hut (water and pit latrines provided; no fires allowed). Peak circuit campsite are offered at the Australian Hut and Top Hut and Kami and Two Tarn campsites (water and pit latrines provided, no fires allowed). Other places to stay in the area include Meru Mt.Kenya Bandas; The Serena Mountain Lodge; Naro Moru River Lodge; Mountain Roc Bantu Hotel; Castle Forest Lodge; Rutunda Log Cabins and Sportsman Arms Hotel. Advance booking is advised in most of these.

FREE EBOOK FOR YOU

Travel Backpacking Packing Tips

Choosing a backpack is a very important part of backpacking. Your backpack is everything on a trip. It can determine how much you can carry, how well you travel and how you feel while backpacking. Making a good choice can set the tone for your whole backpacking experience.

When choosing a backpack it is critical to choose based upon fit. The amount of pockets and storage is a minor detail. The bottom line is if it does not fit well you will not use it regardless of it has all the features you desire. So, with that in mind, the following list explains things you should do when fitting a backpack.

- Consider the weight of your typical pack load. If you usually carry a heavier load then consider getting a lightweight pack.

- Measure your torso length. You will measure your back from the top to your lower back. All backpacks are labeled for torso size. If you fall between two sizes go to the larger size.

- When you put on the backpack the hip belt should fall right at your hips with the lumbar pad on your lumbar region.

- You should be able to move your arms freely without the shoulder harness getting in the way.

- Make sure when you try on a backpack that you put weight in it to simulate how it will fit when loaded.

- Once you have made sure that you can get all the straps in the correct position and it fits comfortable with weight you need to make sure you can move it in comfortably. You need to squat, walk around, preferable on flat ground and stairs.

- Make sure you can easily take the pack off and put it back on.

- Also make sure you can adjust the weight easily.

Now that you have went through all of this you can feel confident that you have bought a good backpack. You should be able to use it comfortably and easily once you get out on the trails. By doing all of the above things you will ensure that you have chosen a backpack that will enhance your experience not hinder it.

Paris - Top 5 Attractions

There is an old saying which states that Paris is the place where all good people go to die. It is the combination of historical charm, modernism, and a heady underworld which makes Paris a fantasy tourist destination. It is the top 5 Paris attractions which draw people to this great city, again and again. Beyond the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre there are attractions which take visitors by surprise and in doing so create memories that last a life time. Below are a few of the hottest destinations in Paris. If you visit Europe, for work or pleasure, be sure to find the time to explore these attractions.

Paris is an old city and with history comes a great deal of memories. It is within France that these memories are replicated in stone. Paris is the capital of France and the city of monuments. This beautiful city is home to hundreds of monuments and intricately carved structures which dominate the cityscape. The Eiffel Tower embodies the essence of the city of lights. It is the most famous and visited of all the cities attractions. The tower was built in 1889, as a physical and tangible representation of all things French. It was created only to be a temporary structure and was to be taken down after the world's fair. It remains today as one of the most recognizable and most visited (6+ million visitors per year) monuments in the world.

One of the most photographed places in the top 5 Paris attractions is the Louvre. This small castle is now home to a number of paintings and sculptures by famous artists. Arguably the world's most famous art museum, the Louvre's most popular piece is Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa". It was established in 1793, and is one of the oldest museums in Europe. Its art collection spans from the birth of great civilizations up to the 19th century. An amazing 5,000,000+ million tourists visited the museum in 2002.

Another attraction is the Centre Pompidou. This is actually the museum which houses all of France's greatest masterpieces by modern artists. The Museum has large collections of paintings spanning the 20th century and including works by the most famous artists (Picasso, Braque, Max Ernst, Magritte, Chagall, Matisse, Delaunay, Kandinsky, Klee and many others). The Centre national d'art et de culture Georges Pompidou was the brainchild of French President Georges Pompidou who wanted to create an original cultural institution in the heart of Paris completely focused on modern and contemporary creation, where the visual arts would rub shoulders with theatre, music, cinema, literature and the spoken word. Some 6 million people pass through the Centre Pompidou's doors each year, a total of over 150 million visitors in its 25 years or so of existence.

The Notre Dame Cathedral is an attraction that can not be overlooked. This is the most breath taking and spiritual structure of Paris. It is here that the world's first true basilicas can be found. Some would assert that they are the best in the entire world. The Notre Dame Cathedral was built in the 12th century and has since remained a solid structure and representation of French gothic architecture.

In 1870, the Sacre Couer or Sacred Heart church started being built. The structure is preceded by an exerting 237 step stone staircase. Inside the church you will find one of the worlds largest mosaics "Christ in Majesty" that depicts Christ with outstretched arms. From the top of the dome, you have a stunning view of Paris extending over 30 kilometers. With a long tradition of culture and art, Paris should always be on your list of European destinations.

Wireless Air Travel

In early 2007, OnAir will arrive. OnAir is a service that uses satellite technology to enable air travel passengers to use wireless devices such as mobile phones, Internet connections from computers and Blackberries during a flight. The debate over the use of wireless technology during flight has been going on for years, and now that it’s about to happen, the debate is likely to heat up.

First of all, you should know that the first wave of this will not be happening on US flights. Airbus, the plane manufacturer who is creating this technology, is selling it to AirFrance. AirFrance is expected to have the service available to passengers in early 2007. Whether passengers will have to pay for the service like they pay for headphones for a movie is not known yet. Two other airlines, the British airline bmi and TAP Air Portugal are both considering using OnAir, but nothing has been finalized, yet.

So what is the debate all about? Who wouldn’t want the convenience of using their cell phone during a long flight, getting important e-mails on their Blackberry or having the luxury of surfing the Internet to pass the time? Apparently, lots of people and for some very valid reasons.

The Safety Consideration

There has been an ongoing concern that the use of mobile phones (cell phones to us Americans) and other devices that use wireless technology could interfere with the plane’s navigational equipment. Recent technological advances in both navigational equipment and cell phone technology seem to negate this concern, but not everyone is convinced. There is concern that the navigational equipment on older planes may still be affected.

The Mobile Phone Debate

Okay, suppose the safety issue is taken care of and there is no concern that wireless communications technology will interfere with the plane’s navigational equipment. What objection is there to the use of mobile phone’s during a flight?

Surveys have shown that the majority of air travelers are against the use of mobile phones on an airplane because it would be downright annoying to sit next to someone who is receiving and making phone calls for hours on a flight. They imagine being stuck between two incessant talkers.

Common sense would seem to tell you that people wouldn’t really be so inconsiderate as to have hour’s long conversations on their mobile phone during a flight. But experience has shown us when it comes to mobile phones, most people loose their common sense. People will hold loud personal conversations in restaurants and grocery stores and on buses. They will drive using a handheld mobile phone even states where it has been made illegal. So does anyone really believe that people will use common sense and consideration during air travel? Not really.

It’s easy to see the scenario. Business people who intend to be considerate will receive what they deem to be a very important business call and end up talking longer than they expected. Or, a mom who just wants to check on her children for a minute will end up having to chat with each one of them before she can hang up.

It’s no wonder that air travel passengers are concerned that the use of mobile phones will become an annoyance during flights. They already are an annoyance down on the ground. Another concern some air travelers have will be the tension that all of this annoyance will create, perhaps making already jittery flyers more frustrated and pushing them over the edge.

Some people are already nervous just about flying. Add a cramped, overcrowded plane to the mix, the constant threat of terrorism, the restrictions on what can be carried on, and now the addition of an inconsiderate mobile phone user sitting right next to that nervous flyer, and someone might just snap.

What about Internet connection?

Travelers aren’t as adamantly against the use of Internet connections for computers and pda’s such as Blackberrys. Those devices are quiet. Many passengers already use their laptop computers on a flight; it’s just not connected to the Internet when they use it. Being able to send and receive e-mail messages while on a flight could be convenient to most people, particularly business travelers. There doesn’t seem to be much of a debate over these devices as long as safety is not a concern.

What Can be Done?

When should you start being concerned with this issue? As of right now, US carriers don’t seem to be considering using OnAir or any service like it. A report on MSN Travel said that the airlines that they asked – AirTran, Spirit, and US Airways – all said that they have heard their passengers say they don’t want mobile phones used on planes and are against adding the services. However, the question is, if these services do catch on in Europe and prove to be a money maker for the carriers who use it, will the US carriers jump on board? In an era of shrinking profits, will they be able to resist?

So if the trial that AirFrance is giving OnAir proves to be successful and the US carriers jump on board, what can be done to make sure that mobile phone usage does not become a problem on board?

One solution is to have no cell phone usage times. Perhaps next to the little light above your seat that lets you know if you need to have your seat belt fastened or not, there could be another light that lets you know if it’s the proper time to use your cell phone or not. Cell phone time could be restricted on long flights and on flights that are overnight when most people would want to sleep.

Another solution is to give the crew the ability to disable the voice function on devices during restricted times. During those times text messaging and e-mailing would be allowed, but talking would be disabled

Go Go Goa

Goa is a vacation paradise, rightly said. Located in South Western India, it is famous for three Ss: Sand, Surf and Sea. Never ending stretch of sandy beaches, water sports, flamboyant life style, British reminiscent, history, fairs and festivals make Goa the best, yet economical vacation spot.

Goa owes much to the Portuguese Raj for its architecture and to nature for rich tropical flora and fauna. So, Goa has it all - history, culture and cuisine.

Goa - The Location
Goa lies between the latitudes 14°53'54" N - 15°40'00" N and longitudes 73°40'33" E - 74°20'13" E and covers an area of 3,702 km². It is elongated stretch of coastal land known as Konkan, facing Arabian Sea. The Western Ghats mountain range separates the coastal region from the Deccan Plateau. The highest point on the Western Ghats in Konkan is the Sonsogor (3,827 feet).

Goa - The Land
Goa has a coastline of 101 km (63 miles). Speaking in pure geographical language, these are mainly rivulets, the major ones being the Mandovi, the Terekhol, the Zuari, Chapora River and the Betul. The Mormugao harbour is a natural harbour on the mouth of the Zuari. The Mandovi and the Zuari serve as the lifelines of Goa, with their tributaries draining 69% of the area. Goa has more than eight marine and about ninety riverine islands and forty estuarines. The total navigable length of Goa's rivers is 157 miles.

Each Beach of Goa has an individuality of its own. The beaches have popularized Goa as the Beach Capital of India. Over two million visitors annually come for Goa Holidays. The Goa beaches give the visitors a "Take It Easy" feeling. You can follow action after action - endless opportunities to roam around and all-night partying. People of every budget can enjoy the endless abandonment.

The Culture of Goa
Goa exhibits a strikingly different culture from the rest of India. Dravidian Christian culture has blessed Goa a flamboyant yet peaceful identity. The natives observe Christmas, Easter, Ganesh Chaturthi and Shigmo with equal jest.
Goa Cuisine
Rice and fish curry is the staple diet in Goa. The region is well-known for its elaborate fish dishes cooked mainly with coconut oil. For drink, the good old Feni (local brew) is popular. Feni is a ferment of cashew fruit and toddy palms.

How to Reach Goa
By Air: Daily flights available to Goa throughout the year from major cities of India.
By Train: Konkan Railway connects Goa with major cities of the country by express trains such as Shatabdi Express, Konkan Kanya, Netravati and Hapa express. Major railway stations are Vasco, Tivim, Margao and Karmali.

Traveling Australia's Outback? Tips and Advice

Perhaps one of the most charming things about the the Australian Outback is its stubborn changeability. Even its seemingly rigid mountains of rocks have their way of changing right before your eyes, as if the landscape refuses all human effort to be mapped.

Unroll that map

And yet a map (and a compass too) is one of the most important thing you'll need in your safari adventure. Current maps are available from petrol stations, RACV, NRMA, and most local police stations. If your maps aren't current, you can get terrifyingly lost, which will not only frustrate and scare you, but can cause serious depletion in your food, energy, precious water and fuel as well.

Make sure someone knows where you are at all times. If you are on your own, give a friend your itinerary or make a point of periodically keeping contact with them so that they know you are not in danger.

Also, before leaving each township, check with the local police station and tell them where you are heading, your planned trip, and when you hope to reach the next township. If you do happen to get lost, the information will make it easy for them to organise a search for you.

If you have additional questions, ask the friendly locals too.

Campfires

Campfires must be watched at all times. Do not walk away from your lighted open fire and don’t leave your campsite without smothering all cinders and residue. Wildfires destroy not just trees and plants but also the animals that depend on them. And most wildfires in the Outback are results of carelessly-left campfires.

Keep Garbage In

Don't throw or leave your garbage just anywhere. Whatever garbage you accumulate during your travel (food wrappers, toilet paper, bean cans, film canisters, band-aid boxes) needs to come back with you.

Rule of Thumb: Take only photos, leave only footprints

Our Australian desert and bush is dangerous, stunning and alluring, but you must keep your wits about you. The Outback is not just some arid region in Australia navigable by a four-wheel drive and ample drinking water supply. You can’t just travel Australia to explore the Outback, much less read about it in an article such as this. More importantly, the Outback is in the heart and soul of the traveler who has willed every step of the way. If you go now, you do yourself a favor.

And if you just heed these basic advices and take responsibility to care for each other, you’re sure to live to tell a great story.

Casino Gambling - 5 Winning Secrets

1. Not all online casinos are created equal! Many online casinos may offer a 100% Match Bonus, but before you sign up check their payout ratio. Some have very poor payouts and you'll never win with your bonus cash.

2. Know the games your playing inside and out. If you don't know how to play a game then don't play it! There is no point in losing your money to a game you don't even know how to play. Secondly, you should always have a system or strategy for winning more money.

Personally I've found that roulette is the best paying game when you use a system. Since roulette pays on 1:35 odds, every $1 you spend that wins is instantly payable at $35 per dollar you bet.

I have put together some simple and easy to use roulette systems for winning as much M0NEY as you can possibly get from the casino: http://www.killerblackjacksecrets.com/

3. Know which games pay out the best, and stick to those games. Here's a tip, the very best game you can play at a casino is none other then blackjack. It offers the best odds even just by using basic strategy. One of the worst games you can play is slots.

4. *Always pocket your p-r-o-f-i-t-s. When you win two quarters from a slot machine put it in your pocket or wallet. The object of gambling is to come out ahead, not behind. Whenever you win some money, no matter how small keep it, and don't re-spend it. I know one guy named Jim, who won $150 on slots but walked away with only $15. Don't be like Jim, save your profits!

5. Make conservative bets. Only bet as much as you can afford to lose. (Sorry about having to repeat myself again) Don't make any wild bets, or you'll blow your bank roll fast! ROCKET LAUNCH your cash-flow through the roof, by playing at the casino I can't possibly urge you enough to learn how to play blackjack!

Kids in Cars: Surviving the Road Trip

"When are we going to reach?" is a common refrain of the little ones whenever you are on a drive to take them to a picnic. To keep your little one from asking such questions it is better to have enough games and activities to keep them occupied.

Riding in cars often causes individuals of all ages to become queasy or sick. Motion sickness can ruin any road trip and make a ride of any length miserable. If you or your child experiences motion sickness while riding in a car, contact a physician. He or she will be able to prescribe medication to aid you with this problem. Also, over the counter medication like Dramamine is excellent for preventing motion sickness. Consider packing snacks that will aid with queasy stomachs.

Finding kid friendly food on the road is often difficult. Instead of stopping for greasy, unhealthy fast food or sugary snacks, pack your own food. Do not provide snacks or foods that will make your children hyper. Consider packing natural, healthy items like trail mix, granola bars, or fruit. Also, do not pack foods that are difficult to eat or need preparation before consuming. If you include foods that require extra items, like silverware to eat, then be sure to include these items in your bag. Do not forget to include plenty of napkins.

In case your health permits you to read while riding, you can declare a story time, for which the kids are going to love you. Carry along books that happen to be the absolute favorites of your kid. Apart from the educational books you can also include a book or two on the destination you are going to be visiting, setting the tone of excitement right in the ride itself.

Nowadays, there are many options that are available for making the trip a wholesome one. Thus, for all those people who cannot read while riding there are audio books, the version of books available on tape as well as CD, most of the times read by the favorite actors or authors himself or herself.

It's a good idea to purchase a small toy or game for your child if you're going on a very long trip. Consider things like traveling puzzles, activity or coloring books, or small toys your child can easily play with while in the car. Children enjoy playing with paper dolls, matchbox cars and small action figures. However, don't buy large and cumbersome toys.

Another way to keep your children busy in the car on a long trip is to install a portable television or DVD player. They are very affordable these days and you buy one for less than a hundred dollars. Alternatively, you can consider borrowing a portable model from a friend, neighbor, or family member, if you can't afford to buy one. If you manage to get one, you can let your children choose their favorite movies or television shows for the trip. This will give everyone a chance to view their favorites during the trip.

The key to riding in cars with children is to keep them entertained. Many individuals grew up playing fun road trip games like license plate bing-o that never go out of style. Regardless if you are in the car for one mile or one thousand miles, turn a road trip into a fun experience for the entire family.

Apartment Rental in Dubai

Dubai is a shopper's paradise. It is a place which is enriched with tall sky scrapers and big malls which are always very fascinating. It is a land which has been hot favorites of not only locals but also for the people of the world. It has become a hot spot for the celebrities. A place to spend your holidays in enjoying the man-made luxuries of life.

If you are also planning to visit Dubai and explore the quality services which it offers then there are umpteen numbers of opportunities. In order to explore any area one has to have a place to stay first. The first thing which comes to mind are the hotels but wait a minute there is one more wonderful service available in Dubai that is taking an apartment on rent for holidays.

Staying in hotel can be good but if you want to live in home comforts or feel the coziness of home, you can hire a house for some duration. There are various apartment rental services available in Dubai.

The need of any individual may vary according to the family members. Second thing may be a budget. The capacity to pay rent is the thing which can decide the type of accommodation that should be taken on rent.

Dubai apartments are built up to cater to the demands of various persons who want to spend their holidays in a home away from home. They are situated at very prime locations.

You can easily find apartments according to your taste and needs. Mostly these apartments are luxurious and have all the modern gadget for staying in comfort and elegance. The interiors are worth looking in these apartments. The furnishing and tapestries are according to settings of each room. The kitchens also come fully equipped with all modern facility and food storage.

Dubai apartments are modern complexes which are built on a very modern architecture. The outlay of apartments is latest and need based.

Set your budget and try to find one which suits your need regarding space and members of family. There are number of beautiful apartments. They are spacious and good parking lots. All the apartments are situated in the posh localities.

This refined apartments are situated not far from civilization. They are in a very quiet position. From the large terrace it is possible to enjoy wonderful sights. The surroundings are very ambiguous and unique.

There is lot of enjoyment that suits the need of family. These homes offer you a charming yet relaxation vacation. There will be opportunity to get the chance to relax on some of the finest Arabian beaches.

There are selected only properties of a good standard. Living in such apartments will provide a very good and cherished experience especially if you are looking for a place which can set your moods always vibrant.

The main purpose of going to a tourist place is enjoyment and to relax. If the enjoyment is accompanied with the comforts and coziness of homely environment, it can further add to the pleasure. So, living in a great place like Dubai can be like a dream coming true.

Find a Cheap Cruise - Search Tips

The race to build the biggest and best cruise ship continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Cruise holidays are one of the most popular holiday alternatives for people and what once was considered as an out of reach vacation for many low to middle income earners, sailing the high seas on board a luxury liner anywhere in the world is now a reality for most.

Cheap Cruise Due Diligence

Conducting a cheap cruise review before booking a holiday is an art form that many now perform quite expertly. Seeking out the best deals is not as difficult as it once was. Why? Because there is so much available in the area of sea travel that major companies will often provide outstanding incentives and opportunities to consumers that it's hard for many to ignore some of the deals being offered.

Once, taking a cruise would have been the holiday of a lifetime. Now, enjoying the amenities and luxuries on board ships is not just a once a year excursion for many: because of the discount deals available, people can now consider sailing on board a ship a yearly event. If you aren't quite sure on how to find those cheap cruise deals, here are some tips on how to locate them.

The Cheap Cruise Rush

Be aware that the term last minute cruise doesn't mean booking only days before a ship is due to depart. The term generally means booking up to 90 days in advance. Is this a good thing? Well, it's generally the procedure to follow. If you have your heart set on a particular holiday and have bugeted for it then yes, go ahead and book it. It means you'll have plenty of time to prepare.

Savvy last minute cheap cruise hunters will generally wait until, well, the last minute. They're experienced enough to know that the best deals are always available close to departure time. Cruise lines realise that it's much more beneficial for them to fill a room at a discount price rather than let it sit empty. Getting people on board is their main priority because "what they miss on the round-a-bout, they'll pick up on the swings!"

You Need To Get Online

So how can you find these cheap cruise deals? Well, one of the best ways is to go online and check out a companies website. You won't generally see these late minute deals plastered all over the written or electronic press. In some cases, you could even pick up a great deal on some of the better state or balcony rooms particularly if they are still empty and leaving them vacant is not an option.

Don't be afraid to sign up for a company's newsletter if they have one. Even better, getting on a mailing list will keep you up-to-date with all the latest offerings. A phone call on a regular basis will also enable you to keep abreast of any last minute cheap cruise deals. I've always considered these type of deals similar in some respects to flight upgrades.

Low Cost Flights - A Guide

This is a simple but complete guide to low cost flights and airlines.

General information on low cost airlines
Low cost airlines and their fares deeply changed the flight sector. A low cost (or no frills, or low fares) is an airline company that offers flights at very competitive prices by not offering or by selling most of passenger services (like on-board meals, seats bookings, etc.). Low cost flights were born in USA in 1971 with Southwest Airlines, and started spreading in Europe at the beginning of the '90s with Ireland's Ryanair.

Why low cost flights are such
Low cost airlines are very flexible and efficient organizations with a cost structure that is very different from the one of traditional airlines. Cutting any costs allows them to offer very competitive prices.Costs are optimized mainly in the following areas:
- Tickets sales are direct, Internet being the main channel. By shortening the intermediation chain, costs can be deeply reduced.
- Smaller and cheaper airports are used, that are also less jammed by traffic.
- On-board services and crews. No meals are served. Fewer crew members are used, and airplanes need less cleaning.- Full usage of aircraft capacity. Airplanes always fly full charge and fly more often to amortize costs. They have faster load/download times (25/35 minutes vs. 2 hours of traditional companies).
- Newer and all equal aircraft. Low cost companies fleets are made all of the same make of planes, all new ones and easy to service, in order to have them all at maximum efficiency.

Characteristics of low cost companies
To operate low cost flights, airlines must have specific characteristics to allow them to keep prices as low as possible. The basic ones are:
- A single passenger class, with free choice of the seating place.
- A single airplane make (in order to optimize service costs), such as Airbus A320s or Boeing 737s (for instance: Ryanair uses Boeing 737 series, EasyJet favors both Boeing 737s and Airbus A319s).
- Airplanes have more seats (for instance, Lufthansa's Boeing 737s carry 132 passengers, EasyJet's ones carry 148).
- Lower weight allowance for both hand carried and stored luggage.
- No free meals or beverages are served on board, but they are available to buy.
- Crew members fulfill multiple tasks (mainly stewardesses and stewards).
- Intensive use of airfleets. For instance, EasyJet flies an average of 10.7 hours a day, while British Airways flies 7.1 hours. Airport stops are shorter (with a faster turnover, usually 25 minutes between flights), and flights are shorter too.
- Connections are made using convenient secondary airfields, often far away from town centers, without slot restrictions, little air traffic and lower airstrip fares.
- Straight peer-to-peer connections without luggage transfers to other coincident flights (separate check-in and check-out), no coordinate flight plans with other airlines.- Expenditure savings trough direct ticket sales, especially trough the Internet and outsourced call centers, automated check-ins and, occasionally service fees.
- Certain offers (as low as 0.99€) are only valid for in-advance bookings or are limited offers, for a relatively low number of seats.

- Lean management (savings on staff). For instance, Germanwings in Cologne employs no more than 50 people.

When to book
It is usually better to book your flight in large advance, at least 15 days before leaving. Better offers are for departures from Mondays to Thursdays: Better to avoid leaving on week ends. Always buy return tickets and be ready to take off at unusual times (early mornings or late evenings).

Canceling or modifying bookings
Before booking read thoroughly the company's regulations about cancelling or modifying bookings! Usually tickets not used on the booked flight are not payed back as recession rights for long distance travel do not apply to this kind of sales. About changing departure dates, every company have different regulations, which you better always check on the company's site. Usually changing dates is not convenient. It is better to loose your old ticket and buy a new one.

How to pay
To shorten intermediation chains, thus offering competitive prices, low cost airlines use favor Internet and call canters (these may apply a small overcharge). Therefore be ready to pay via credit card (payments are secure, to verify be sure that Internet addresses change form http: to https:).Confirmation and check inIf you book on line, you will receive a confirmation mail at the e-mail address you specified. For telephone bookings at a call center, you will receive confirmation via fax, e-mail or, eventually by regular mail. In the last case, certain companies ask for a small overcharge if sending via messenger mail. If you are e-booking, that means if you buy your ticker on line, you receive confirmation via e-mail. It is enough to print it out and to show it at the booking counter at the airport.

Seychelles Vacation

The Seychelles islands cluster, off the coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean, is a tropical remote location. This collection of 115 islands is home to some of the world's rarest wildlife. Unlike many of the other island clusters in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is large enough to support a healthy population of natives. Because some of the islands are fairly distant from one another, travel between them is accomplished by small airplanes, ferry or helicopter. If seeing nature is the goal, a private helicopter transport between islands is breathtaking.

On the capital island Victoria, there are marketplaces filled with cultural arts and crafts, museums detailing the rich French culture of the area, five-star restaurants featuring exquisite local cuisine and even a golf-course. Many Seychelles hotels and resorts are attractive destinations in and of themselves. On some of the smaller islands it is possible to schedule a local guide for a hiking trip or boat tour around the island. On these nature excursions, a glimpse of the rare giant tortoise is not uncommon. In addition, the islands feature lush green jungles alive with local birds, like the glamorous Seychelles Flycatcher. In fact, the Garden of Eden, from the Judaeo/Christian faith, is said to be located in the Vallee de Mai on Praslin Island. Be sure to visit this magnificent place. Protecting wildlife as a natural resource is so important to the culture of these islands that many have been designated as wildlife conservatories and refuges.

For the more adventuresome vacation, there are high impact activities galore. Most of these islands are made from the natural upheaval of coral reefs; the surrounding waters are teeming with reef fish and beautiful living corals. This environment provides a perfect location for scuba divers and snorkelers. Many resorts offer classes in scuba and rentals for the equipment necessary to become immersed in this natural wonder. To further experience the Indian Ocean at its finest, surfboards and para sails are available for rental at many Seychelles hotels and resorts. In addition, if sailing is of interest, there is a yacht club on the capital island and many of the resorts have sailboats for hourly rent. Sailing through the beautiful clear waters and the gentle breeze surrounding these magnificent islands is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

Although the cities in the Seychelles Islands are fairly modern, especially in the capital district, many of the smaller remote islands still contain Creole natives that are untouched by civilization. Be sure to visit these with the local natives that inhabit some of the remote islands and learn how they make a living by farming and fishing in the traditional way. By visiting with these people and removing oneself from civilization, even for only an hour, is a life changing experience and will instill a feeling of appreciation of nature.

Whether you are interested in hiking, sailing, scuba diving, culture, food or relaxation, Seychelles Island hotels and resorts offer something for everyone. Their secluded locale, scintillating scenery and friendly natives make the Seychelles Islands an unforgettable vacation experience like no other.